Tour of Capri and Anacapri with chairlift

A Day on Capri and Anacapri: Exploring Italy’s Jewel with a Chairlift and Boat Tour

When you think of the Amalfi Coast or the Bay of Naples, Capri often comes to mind as Italy’s most glamorous yet surprisingly authentic island escape. Our tour, costing around $115 per person and lasting 8 to 9 hours, is designed for travelers eager to see the best of Capri and Anacapri in one compact day. Led by knowledgeable guides like Fabrizio, this adventure combines a scenic boat cruise, visits to charming villages, and a ride on the iconic chairlift to Monte Solaro.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of sea, sky, and small-town charm. The boat ride, lasting about an hour, offers a spectacular view of limestone caves and bays that make Capri so famous. Later, the visit to Anacapri’s Mount Solaro via chairlift provides an unparalleled panoramic perspective of the island’s rugged coast. Plus, strolling through Capri’s Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus gives us a true sense of the island’s luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere. One thing to keep in mind: this tour does not include lunch, so planning ahead or bringing a snack is wise.

A potential consideration is the crowds, especially during peak tourist season. While the tour is well-organized, some travelers feel that Capri can become quite busy, which might impact the feeling of intimacy or ease of exploring. Still, if you want a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail on your own, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to see multiple highlights with expert guidance, all in one day.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines boat, bus, and chairlift for a full island overview.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Fabrizio enhance the experience.
• Stunning Views: From caves and bays during the boat ride to panoramic vistas from the chairlift.
• Flexible Free Time: Enjoy time in Anacapri and Capri’s Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus.
• Cost-Effective: For around $115, you cover transportation, guide, and key sights.
• Crowd Considerations: Expect busy spots during peak season, but the guided approach helps navigate efficiently.

Exploring Capri and Anacapri: What You Can Expect

This tour starts early, meeting at Port of Capri Marina Grande at 10:30 am. From there, the adventure kicks off with a private boat ride of about an hour. This is a highlight for us; the boat slips smoothly through limestone caves and around the bays — a true highlight that leaves many travelers breathless. The boat is typical of Capri—small, intimate, and perfect for maneuvering close to the island’s rugged coastline.

The Boat Ride: Seeing the Island from the Water

Most reviews praise the boat trip, with one traveler noting, “we had a lovely boat trip around the entire island,” emphasizing how this perspective reveals hidden caves and secluded bays you wouldn’t see from land. The boat ride is also a chance to cool off and enjoy the fresh sea breeze, which is particularly welcome on warm days. Cost-wise, the boat ride is an additional €25, and it’s worth every penny, considering the stunning scenery and the ease of access with a private boat.

Moving to Anacapri

After the boat, the tour takes you via mini bus to Anacapri, which is often less crowded and more relaxed than Capri’s main town. Here, you’ll have about two hours to explore. Many travelers appreciate the free time to stroll along narrow alleys, browse local shops, or simply sit and enjoy a cappuccino. You might choose to visit the Church of San Michele, famous for its colorful tiled floor, or just soak in the quiet ambiance.

The Mount Solaro Chairlift: A View from the Top

The highlight for many is reaching the summit of Mount Solaro via the chairlift. The ride is brief but offers spectacular views of the coastline and the Faraglioni rocks, iconic symbols of Capri. According to reviews, “the landscape in the top is beautiful,” and the view from the top is truly worth the experience. It’s a great photo opportunity and a chance to enjoy the peaceful highlands away from the bustling streets below.

Capri’s Heart: The Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus

After descending, the tour guides you to Capri’s Piazzetta, often called the “living room of the world,” thanks to its outdoor cafes and lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching and sampling local specialties. From there, walking to the Gardens of Augustus provides breathtaking views of the Faraglioni and the coastline. Many travelers describe it as a must-see, with one noting, “the Gardens offer the best view of the giant ‘Faraglioni Rocks,’ leaving you breathless once again.”

Practical Tips

• The tour does not include lunch, so bring snacks or plan to eat in Capri’s many cafes.
• The chairlift costs €6-€10, paid on-site.
• The boat ride is optional at €25, so consider whether you want to add that extra scenic experience.
• Guides speak English, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for most travelers.
• The tour is limited to 20 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Expect a full day of activity, with plenty of walking and some waiting, so wear comfortable shoes.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What stands out most about this tour is its balance between sightseeing and authentic local flavor. Guides like Fabrizio are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making what could be a rushed day into a relaxed, engaging experience. Travelers report that guides speed up the process, helping them avoid long lines and queues, especially at popular spots like the Gardens of Augustus and the chairlift.

The stunning scenery—from the caves during the boat ride to the panoramic views from Mount Solaro—comes at no extra cost and truly enhances the value of the experience. The ability to see Capri’s highlights in one day makes this a popular choice for travelers with limited time but a desire to get a real sense of the island.

While some reviews mention crowds as a downside, most agree that the organized nature of the tour helps manage the busy spots efficiently. One traveler noted, “the volume of travelers is high, but the guide did everything to wait out the weather for the chairlift,” which is a reminder that flexibility and good planning matter on popular islands.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-timers wanting a rundown of Capri without the stress of planning each step. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, panoramic views, and charming villages, you’ll find much to love here. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their day, with a mixture of guided sightseeing and free time.

It also appeals to travelers who appreciate value for money—covering transportation, guide services, and key attractions—without the need to book separate tickets or worry about logistics. However, if you prefer more secluded spots or a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour of Capri and Anacapri with chairlift offers a thoughtfully curated slice of Italy’s most glamorous island, with a good mix of sea, sky, and charming towns. Its greatest strengths lie in the expert guides, stunning views, and efficient itinerary that helps you see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

It’s well-suited for first-time visitors or those short on time who want a full day of sightseeing with a manageable group size. The cost reflects the value of transportation, guided insights, and exclusive access to the chairlift, making it a worthwhile investment for many.

However, do keep in mind that peak season crowds can impact the experience, and lunch is not included, so plan accordingly. This tour delivers a balanced, memorable day on Capri that most travelers will find both enjoyable and worthwhile.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the early evening, making it a full but manageable day.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers guided tours in multiple languages, local transport, visits to Capri and Anacapri, the Gardens of Augustus, and the chairlift to Mount Solaro. The boat ride costs an additional €25.

Are there options for a boat ride or the Blue Grotto?
Yes, the boat ride is optional at €25, and visiting the Blue Grotto costs €42. Both are not included in the base price but can be added for extra cost.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging, especially the boat and chairlift. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and a bit of outdoor activity.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and snacks if you prefer to avoid long lines for meals. The tour does not include lunch.

How crowded does it get?
Capri can be quite busy, especially in summer. The guided format helps manage crowds, but expect some congestion, especially at the Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan ahead.

Is there any special requirement?
Confirmation is received at booking, and service animals are allowed. Weather conditions can affect the trip; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

This tour balances the best of Capri’s natural beauty, charming villages, and scenic vistas—all guided by experts who ensure you make the most of your day. Whether it’s your first trip or a repeat visit, it offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Italy’s famous island.