CAPRI OR ANACAPRI? TWO SOULS, ONE ISLAND

Capri is undoubtedly the island’s social hub. Right at the Marina Grande harbor, you’ll notice a lively and bustling atmosphere: this is where all the tourists arrive and depart, and where boat tours begin. Just a few minutes by funicular or bus will take you to the famous Piazzetta: the heart of Capri! If you stay near the Piazzetta, you’ll feel right in the dynamic center of the island, where you might even spot celebrities or famous personalities. Nearby are also the shopping streets, the trendiest restaurants, and the luxury boutiques of Via Camerelle. But Capri is more than just this. It’s also home to some must-see attractions, such as Saint James's Charterhouse and the Gardens of Augustus, as well as the stunning Villa Jovis, which was built on the orders of Emperor Tiberius. Another important point to remember is that the island’s beaches are part of Capri, since Anacapri occupies the hilly area. But be warned! The hotels and restaurants here are almost all “upscale” and, as a result, more expensive and exclusive. In short, choose Capri if you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere and if you enjoy the more glamorous side of the island’s social life: you’ll appreciate your vacation even more! 

As I mentioned earlier, Anacapri is the island’s hilltop town and has a very different vibe from Capri. It sits on the slopes of Monte Solaro, from where you can admire views of incredible beauty—a destination you can reach by chairlift or on a hiking trail. Here, the atmosphere is more relaxed and peaceful, ideal for those looking to escape the chaos while still fully enjoying the most authentic side of the island of Capri. You’ll find a good selection of restaurants and artisan shops, as well as other points of interest like Villa San Michele or the Casa Rossa (Red House), and hiking trails of all difficulty levels. Accommodations here are generally more affordable and are also recommended for families with children; moreover, Anacapri is the island’s green heart, and you’ll find plenty of pedestrian-friendly areas and gardens where you can stroll peacefully even with little ones! So, choose Anacapri if you’re seeking peace and want to experience a more authentic and quiet vacation: you’ll see, it will surprise you! 

To get around between the two towns of Capri, you have several options: local buses run very frequently, but there are also taxis (shared or private), or you can rent a scooter or e-bike! In any case, whether you decide to stay in Capri or Anacapri, it’s essential that you spend some time in both places. I therefore recommend strolling through the streets of the town center and enjoying Capri’s nightlife, but also spending a few hours in the greenery and tranquility of Anacapri: they truly complement each other, and only by experiencing both can you say you’ve truly visited the island!