Capri (via Ferry)

The legendary island of Capri is reached by ferry from Sorrento and makes an unforgettable day on the water. From the Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus to the Faraglioni, Blue Grotto, and Villa San Michele, the island offers scenery at every turn.

Capri is reached by ferry from Sorrento port in a crossing of just 20-25 minutes, with the port roughly 12 km, 10 minutes by bus, from Villa Lorelei. It is one of the most celebrated short sea crossings in the Mediterranean, and a day on the island is among the most memorable excursions you can make from the villa.

The island combines breathtaking scenery with a timeless glamour. From Marina Grande, take the funicular up to the Piazzetta, Capri's iconic open-air salon ringed by historic cafés and framed by its bell tower, then walk to the Gardens of Augustus, flowering terraces overlooking the three legendary Faraglioni sea stacks and Marina Piccola. The Blue Grotto, a sea cave where light creates an intense blue glow underwater, is visited by rowboat (open 9am to 5pm, weather permitting, entry around 13 euros); from Anacapri take the chairlift up Monte Solaro and visit Villa San Michele, an enchanting villa-museum with art collections, gardens, and panoramic views.

Mamy Lucia's tip: catch one of the first ferries to beat the day-trip rush, and book a small private boat tour around the island, because swimming through the Faraglioni arch is the real magic of Capri. Pack a swimsuit and light shoes for the rocks, and go from May to early July or in September for calmer seas and fewer crowds; the Blue Grotto depends on weather and tide, so keep the plan flexible.

Good to know: ferries run more frequently from spring to autumn, with departures every 30 to 60 minutes, and can sell out in peak season, so buy tickets early and check the last return time before you set off. There are no private cars for visitors on the island; you move around by funicular, bus, taxi, or on foot. A swimsuit, light shoes, and a small bag are all you really need for the day.