Marina Grande Capri is a fantastic starting point for exploring one of Italy’s most iconic islands. Its lively port area offers easy access to a variety of tours that suit different interests and activity levels. We’re particularly fond of the guided hop-on hop-off bus tour, which makes sightseeing flexible and straightforward, and the Blue Grotto boat trip, perfect for those who want to experience Capri’s famous caves and dramatic coastlines. For a more active day, the stand-up paddle rental offers a fun way to enjoy the scenery from the water. Each option provides a unique way to enjoy Capri’s beauty—whether you prefer land, sea, or a combination of both.
If you’re trying to decide, this guide will help you weigh your options. We’ll look at each tour’s highlights, what makes it stand out, and who it’s best suited for. Whether you’re after a quick overview, a scenic boat cruise, or an active paddle session, there’s something here for you.
Quick Overview
Below are three top tours in Marina Grande Capri, each offering a different experience:
- Capri Island Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Perfect for a flexible, rundown of the island’s key sights. Learn more here
- Blue Grotto and Caprese Sandwich da Aldo: A boat cruise that takes you past the Punta Carena Lighthouse, the Faraglioni rocks, and inside the Blue Grotto if you choose. Explore this tour
- Stand Up Paddle Rental in Sorrento from Marina Grande: An active way to enjoy Sorrento’s coast from the water, with options to visit Bagni della Regina Giovanna. Check availability here
1. Marina Grande: Guided Capri Island Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For those who want a rundown of Capri in a day, this hop-on hop-off bus tour is a convenient choice. Starting near the Marina Grande Tourist Port, the guided tour allows you to explore key sights like the Church of San Michele and other coastal highlights at your own pace. The buses run throughout the day, giving you the freedom to hop off at any stop, wander around, and hop back on when ready.
The benefit here is simplicity. You don’t need to worry about navigation or timing; everything is organized with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into Capri’s history and landmarks. The tour’s flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want to see the major sights without spending all day on a single activity. Plus, since it’s valid for a whole day, you can customize your experience—perhaps visiting the Gardens of Augustus or the Villa Jovis when you jump off.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its convenience and coverage—covering the island efficiently while giving you ample opportunity to explore on your own. It’s rated 4/5 based on 12 reviews, reflecting solid value and a generally positive experience.
Bottom line: If your goal is to get a broad sense of Capri with minimal fuss, this hop-on hop-off bus tour is a smart, no-nonsense choice.
2. Blue Grotto and Caprese Sandwich da Aldo
For travelers eager to experience Capri’s legendary Blue Grotto and enjoy a scenic boat trip, this tour hits all the highlights. Starting at Motoscafisti Capri, your boat will cruise around the island, passing iconic sights like the Punta Carena Lighthouse and the Faraglioni rocks—the famous sea stacks that define Capri’s coastline. This tour offers the chance to see some of the most photographed natural features while enjoying the sea breeze.
One of the key attractions is visiting the Blue Grotto, a must-see natural wonder if you opt for the entrance. The small opening allows sunlight to flood the cave, creating that famous blue glow. Along the way, your skipper shares stories about the island, adding depth to the experience. The cruise also includes a stop for food tasting and a visit to a visitor center for a guided tour, making it well-rounded.
This tour scores 4.3/5, and many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic it is, with travelers appreciating the boat’s ability to show off Capri from the water. The price of around $48.97 per person offers good value, especially considering the included highlights.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an engaging, scenic boat cruise that combines natural wonders with cultural stops, this tour is a top pick.
$48.97 per person
3. Stand Up Paddle rental in Sorrento from Marina Grande
Want to add some adventure to your trip? This stand-up paddle (SUP) rental lets you explore Sorrento’s coast at your own pace. Starting at Marina Grande, you can paddle along the rugged shoreline, taking in views that are often missed from land. The rental process is straightforward, and you can leave your bags securely at the office before heading out.
One of the main attractions is reaching Bagni della Regina Giovanna, a popular spot for swimming and relaxing—just a short paddle from Marina Grande. The experience is rated 5/5 based on reviews, with many visitors commenting on how easy and fun it is to navigate the coast on a SUP. The hour-long rental is perfect for a quick, active break, and it offers a fresh perspective on Capri’s natural beauty.
This activity is especially suited for active travelers or those who want a more interactive way to enjoy the coastline. No prior experience is necessary, and the equipment is easy to use. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a fun, physically engaging experience and want to avoid the busier tourist spots.
Bottom line: For an active, scenic, and flexible way to explore Sorrento’s coast, renting a SUP from Marina Grande is hard to beat.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you want a straightforward overview of Capri’s main sights, the hop-on hop-off bus offers ease and flexibility. If your priority is experiencing Capri’s natural beauty from the water, the boat cruise to the Blue Grotto and surrounding sights will satisfy your curiosity and sense of adventure. For those who prefer a hands-on experience, the paddle rental provides a unique way to see the coast up close.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, and consider combining tours—perhaps doing the boat trip one day and the bus the next—for a well-rounded visit.
Final Thoughts
Capri’s Marina Grande offers a variety of ways to discover its beauty. For a quick, rundown, the guided hop-on hop-off bus is the most practical. If you’re looking for a memorable sea adventure, the Blue Grotto tour delivers dazzling natural sights. And for active travelers, the paddle rental turns the coastline into your personal playground.
Whatever your style, these tours provide a great start. Book early, choose what excites you most, and enjoy every moment on this stunning island.