Capri, Italy

 

Capri can be overwhelmed by tourists, so we took the first ferry from Sorrento in the morning to beat the crowds.  Upon arriving, we went immediately to Anacapri by taxi, it’s a fun ride for 35 Euros, the taxi stand is near the port terminal.  We were dropped off at Piazza Victoria (where the taxi stand for the return trip is located, and very near the Monte Solaro chairlift).  From Piazza Victoria we walked along Via Orlandi, which is a very cute pedestrian street with churches, shops, and cafes.  There are signs with historical information along the way, so it’s perfect for a self-guided tour. 

Anacapri Santa Sofia

Anacapri street

The Church of San Michele (pronounced "me kay lee" for Michael) Arcangelo is a must-see.  The Baroque church has an incredible, intricate majolica tile floor depicting Adam and Eve being cast from the Garden of Evil.  Look for the expressions on the animal faces.  This church is small but amazing and unique. 

San Michele domes

San Michele altar

San Michele tile floor

Casa Rosa is a small, quirky museum in the villa of a Swedish aristocrat, showcasing his lifetime collection of art.  It has a nice view of Anacapri and Mount Solaro from the rooftop terrace. Notice the “heat domes” on the roofs of the houses, typical in Amalfi (we saw them in Positano as well).  

View from Casa Rosa roof

Heat domes on roofs

View from Ville San Michele

Back at Piazza Vittoria, there is a path up the stairs and to the left lined with shops that leads to Villa San Michele and a great view down to Capri town.

Leaving Anacapri, we took a bus from Piazza Pache (less crowded than Piazza Vittoria) to Capri town.  Unlike the Sita buses, you buy the tickets on bus.  

Capri town centers around Piazza Umberto, with a medieval alley branching off to the left of the City Hall.  The clock tower is iconic, and the stairs down to the port located at the base of the tower.  The Cathedral has a marble floor that dates to Roman times.  Instead of the funicular, we walked down 15 minutes to the harbor via the steps from the clock tower.  

Clock Tower

View from Capri town

We took the Capri island boat tour, which includes the trip into the Blue Grotto (but not the entrance fee, which must be paid at the Grotto).  Unfortunately, the tide was too high so we could not enter.  I understand that more often than not, the grotto is closed due to high tides and rough water.  Circling the island was still a great experience – wear sunscreen and bring water!

Capri marina and Capri town

Emerald Grotto

Capri Faraglioni rock formations