Last Updated on 07/04/2022
There is no better person to get insider tips on where to stay in Capri than from someone who lives there. I asked Holly of Michel’angelo and Giardino di Capri to share with us the best hotels in Capri, along with a few B&Bs and apartment rentals. Before we dive into all the options from budget stays to luxury villas fit for an emperor, let me introduce you to Holly and Gianluca.
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Holly and Gianluca’s former restaurant, Ristorante Michel’angelo, instantly became my favorite place to eat in Capri after my husband and I had the most memorable meal there. On weekend trips from Naples, Ristorante Michel’angelo was our go to spot for quality pasta dishes and a chocolate torta that I still can’t believe is gluten free. Get the recipe in their virtual cookbook.
After meeting Holly at lunch, I followed her on Instagram (a must for Capri lovers!). I got to know more about the Australian and how she ended up married to a Caprese local. Frankly, I’m not sure why their story isn’t a film yet. You’ll want to keep reading to discover how they met.
Holly and Gianluca have since closed the restaurant and are embarking on a new journey in Anacapri, Giardino di Capri. Their new family business focuses on making tourism more sustainable and the importance of bringing agriculture back to the island community, along with celebrating the island’s history, culture and natural beauty.
During your visit, you can join them for a cooking class with a 3 course meal or a private dinner in a local garden villa in Anacapri. You can also purchase their products local to the Campania region directly on their website. The pomodorini (tomatoes) makes a delicious and effortless dinner that instantly reminds me of that first spaghetti dinner I had at their restaurant (burrata not included as I don’t think the Italian post would appreciate that).
In an effort to make tourism more sustainable on the island, they’ve also launched Capri Sostenibile. They sell natural, organic and vegan products made in Italy that can be delivered straight to your accommodation. To lessen the impact on the ecosystem, travelers and locals alike can purchase a range of products including sunscreen, shampoo, mosquito repellent and home cleaning supplies.
Without further ado, I’ll let Holly take over with her insider tips on where to stay in Capri, all the details on how to get there and how to get around the island.
A Local’s Guide to Capri
Capri is a picturesque 10.4 square kilometre island located off the Bay of Naples. The island is world renowned for its unique natural beauty, epic limestone cliffs, bougainvillea lined cobbled laneways and glistening aquamarine sea.
Allured by the mystical Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), iconic Faraglioni rocks, historic Roman ruins, plentiful jaw dropping belvederes and the fashionable Piazzetta, Capri has become a hugely popular Summer destination for Italian and international travelers alike. Not to mention, a long-standing high society appeal from Roman emperors to Jackie Kennedy Onassis to Jennifer Lopez.
There’s no shortage of literature, photography, artworks and film sets capturing Capri’s beauty, but it really has to be seen with your own eyes to be believed. In order to really breathe that ‘Capri air’ and experience the true essence of island life, you need to buck the day tripper trend and book a stay for at least a few nights (the longer the better!).
Capri also happens to be the setting where destino led me to love, my now husband, Caprese local Gianluca, our two beautiful children and a new life raising a family and running an island business. On my very first visit to Capri in 2013 I was staying in one of these hotels that unbeknownst to me, would turn my life as I knew it, upside down (and ultimately very far away from my Australian home).
Since relocating to Capri, I’ve been very fortunate to have a revolving stream of family and friends visit us. I’m sure the location is the big drawcard! By default I’ve become a “go to” resource for island recommendations for everything from accommodation, shopping, dining to boat rides and local experiences. I’m more than happy to share some of this local knowledge forward.
Contrary to popular opinion, there are accommodation options to suit all budgets. You can often find attractive packages that offer more value than comparable mainland stays. Think day tripping to the mainland against the traffic and returning to the relaxed island ambience to spend the evenings!
Tips for Staying in Capri
Capri is a resort holiday destination with most hotels only open from Easter to October. Although, you can find a selection of B&B’s, AirBnBs and apartment rentals available year round. Stays on the island can range in price significantly depending upon the location, facilities and time of year.
It follows that where you stay and when you visit can greatly influence your island experience. Hotels are scattered over the island in 4 main neighborhoods: Marina Grande, Marina Piccola, Capri town and Anacapri. Each season and neighborhood has its own unique beauty and vibe. I recommend determining when and where you’d like to stay based on what you desire from your travels; for example, hiking, relaxation, shopping, luxury, boating, seclusion, nightlife, beach clubs, local life, family friendly, history and culture.
Getting Around Capri
During the high season, cars are not permitted on Capri without a special permit and some areas are pedestrian only. With this in mind, I recommend organizing luggage transfers from the port to your accommodation. This makes for a less stressful arrival especially if your accommodation is located in a pedestrian only area.
Public transport (bus & funicular), taxis and walking are the main ways to move around the island. From the Marina Grande port, you can catch the bus to Anacapri or Capri, or ride the funicular which directly connects the port to Capri town. If you pre-purchase bus tickets from the ticket office, each one-way ticket is €2. If you pay onboard, the ticket is €2.50 one-way.
Find more information about buses, the funicular, taxis and scooter rentals.
From Capri town, there are 3 bus routes: Capri – Anacapri; Capri – Marina Piccola; Capri – Marina Grande. A private bus company also runs regular bus routes between Anacapri Centre – Faro (Lighthouse) and Anacapri Centre – Grotta Azzurra (the Blue Grotto).
Taxis are convertible and much more expensive, however a unique and characteristically Caprese experience. The fare prices are located on a laminated card behind the driver or passenger seat.
How to Get to Capri
Most visitors (and residents) travel to and from the island via public ferry (book your ticket in advance) although you can also arrive in style via private boat transfer or helicopter for a very different price tag. Ferries depart from Naples and Sorrento year round. In high season, ferries also directly connect Capri with the Amalfi Coast and Ischia.
There are 2 ports in Naples: Molo Beverello where the high speed ferries depart (50 minutes to Capri) and Calata Porta di Massa where the slow ferries (car ferries) depart (1-1.25 hours to Capri). Travelling from Sorrento is a shorter trip (20 mins fast ferry or 30 minutes slow ferry).
It’s rare, but ferries can occasionally be rescheduled or cancelled due to adverse weather condition. In this case, your hotel concierge will keep you posted of the latest news or you can contact the ferry company directly.
Now that we’ve covered your arrival and transportation, here begins some of my favourite island stays.
The Best Hotels in Capri, Italy
My recommendations are all based on my personal experience either during stays and visits of my own or anecdotally through my family and friends. There are so many beautiful places to stay all over the island and by no means, is this list exhaustive. There may well need to be a Part 2! Other than Hotel Luna, the hotels are listed in descending star rating order.
Hotel Luna
This is where it all began. Perched cliffside with unobstructed views of the Faraglioni rocks, the 4 star Hotel Luna is nothing short of a dream. I couldn’t believe my reservation luck back in 2013 when I’d decided to visit Capri on a whim and managed to secure a room on a few days’ notice due to a cancellation.
It didn’t take long to settle on the lounge terrace with an Aperol Spritz before striking up a conversation with the bar manager, Luigi. He recommended I dine at Michel’angelo, a local restaurant owned by his friend, Gianluca. As I walked into the restaurant, there was an inexplicable energy between Gianluca and I (that somehow crossed lingual, cultural and geographical barriers) and the rest is history!
Many of the hotel’s clientele return year after year. I may well have joined this loyal clientele if things had been different. However, the next time I returned to Hotel Luna was on my wedding night the following year before I relocated to Capri permanently.
Hotel Luna is nestled between the tranquillity of the Augustus Gardens and the San Giacomo monastery, yet still only a stone throw from all the action in the Piazzetta. It has beautifully manicured gardens, a large pool area complete with poolside dining. In addition, there is a rooftop cocktail bar (with a view to die for) open to the public. The most sought after rooms are the suites with sea view terraces where you can marvel at the Faraglioni, the Luna Caprese and the superyachts moored in the sea below.
Hotel Luna will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m so grateful to have celebrated both our wedding reception and my 40th birthday festivities on their beautiful grounds. Two special occasions I will never forget were made even more memorable by the team of welcoming and professional staff! Don’t forget to say ciao to Luigi. His recommendations are always spot on!
Hotel Luna: Check prices and availability.
Hotel Caesar Augustus
Another cliffside jewel with sweeping views of Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast and the port of Marina Grande stands the majestic 5 star Hotel Caesar Augustus high on the mountain as you reach Anacapri. With breathtaking sea view suites, an infinity pool, wellness area, garden to table restaurant, cocktail terrace, art collection and the perfect terrace to admire the sunset, it might be difficult to leave the hotel (although we all know this is impossible; you’re in Capri!!).
Strategically placed by the property’s former owner, a Russian prince, the statue of Emperor Caesar Augustus, is now an iconic symbol of Capri. The statue points towards the Roman ruins of Villa Jovis, constructed under the instruction of the Emperor’s stepson, Tiberius, who ruled the Roman Empire from Capri for the last 10 years of his life between 27-37AD.
The hotel also has one of the most private romantic tree top tables on the island for a meal and view you will remember for a lifetime. Settle in and enjoy the unique surrounds and venture out of the oasis as you please.
Caesar Augustus: Check pricing and availability.
Grand Hotel Quisisana
With a history dating back more than 150 years, the Quisisana is the Grand Dame of Capri. This 5 star luxury hotel officially opens and closes the Summer season in Capri with the hoisting of international flags that fly over the Quisi Bar terrace below. A seat on the front terrace of the Quisi Bar is a coveted ritual for many (both hotel guests and visitors alike) especially at aperitivo time to see and be seen amongst the rich, famous and exquisitely dressed.
The Grand Hotel Quisisana is opulently decorated and boasts a large pool area, beauty spa, event facilities, restaurant and bar. It has hosted a plethora of intellectuals, artists, politicians, musicians and affluent characters over the years. Prominently located in the centre of Capri, you are in close proximity to access luxury shopping, dining and the famous Piazzetta.
Grand Hotel Quisisana: Check prices and availability.
Capri Palace
On the other side of the island, in the picturesque heights of Anacapri, lies the conveniently located 5 star, Capri Palace Jumeriah Hotel. In close proximity to the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the spectacular Villa San Michele and the Anacapri historic centre, the lavish grounds provide the setting for a relaxing and luxurious stay on the island. Choose from 66 contemporary Mediterranean styled rooms with access to the outdoor pool and world-renowned beauty spa.
Start the night with an aperitivo cocktail at the Artist’s Bar, aptly named with its collection of modern art, sculptures and books. Then, enjoy refined onsite dining at L’Olivo restaurant which has retained its Michelin star status since 2011.
Complimentary shuttles are also available to chaperon guests to the Michelin starred beach club, Il Riccio, owned by the Capri Palace. The beach club and lounges are exclusively available to hotel guests. Located alongside the Grotta Azzurra, the abundant fresh seafood creations and temptation dessert room are not to be missed!
Capri Palace: Check prices and availability.
Hotel Villa Brunella
The 4 star family run Hotel Villa Brunella is a secret gem. Located on the exclusive Via Tragara in pedestrian Capri town, the Ruggerio family have been keeping their devoted clientele happy for generations. The property descends towards the sea with spacious well equipped sophisticated rooms on varying terraced levels, most with sea view balconies or garden views filled with colourful bougainvillea and wisteria.
Their distinctive striped light blue and white sun lounges, white umbrellas, pool and bar are the envy of many a photographer and passer by who can enjoy a glimpse from Via Tragara above.
The hotel also boasts an exclusive restaurant, Terrazza Brunella, located on street level with the most exquisite views of the bay of Marina Piccola and Monte Solaro. Open lunch and dinner, it is an intimate and elegant setting and the perfect destination for a romantic meal or special occasion, followed by a leisurely stroll along the luxury villa lined Via Tragara back to the Piazza for a gelato or digestivo (if you still have room!).
Hotel Villa Brunella: Check prices and availability.
Hotel Canasta
This boutique family run 4 star hotel located parallel to the famous Via Camerelle luxury shopping strip is stylishly decorated with classic Caprese majolica tiles and aesthetic details that keep true to Capri’s distinctive traditional charm. Additionally, the owner Pietro Emilio is never far away to offer any assistance during your stay.
Breakfast at Hotel Canasta is plentiful and filled with local delights. The rooftop pool with sea view is a convenient alternative when you’re not feeling up for facing the day time island crowds.
A more recent addition to the hotel is the upscale Villa Margherita restaurant. The menu is filled with both traditional classics and modern twists that are as visually pleasing as they are mouth-watering. Dishes are made with fresh produce, some straight from their onsite garden. Outdoor dining under the pergola in Summer comes with a dreamy Mediterranean ambiance however, indoor dining does not disappoint. A meal at Villa Margherita is elegantly chic and fine dining executed to a tee.
Many of my family and friends have stayed here over the years and always leave with lasting memories and only good things to say!
Hotel Canasta: Check prices and availability.
Hotel Gatto Bianco
The centrally located iconic 4 star Hotel Gatto Bianco run by the Esposito family has been a hub of island history since the 1950’s golden era of Capri. Their famed guests have included Brigitte Bardot and Jackie Kennedy Onassis. One of the family owners, Renato Esposito is a prominent art, culture and literature historian. He also holds tours of historical sites to share his passion and enthusiasm for his island home to all.
Choose from 44 rooms including affordable classic doubles to suites with terraces. Each is decorated with classic Caprese colourful and detailed majolica tiles. Hotel Gatto Bianco also features a beauty centre offering a broad range of competitively priced services from hairdressing to manicures, treatments and massages. They certainly did an amazing job with the hair and makeup for my bridesmaids, family and I on our wedding day!
Hotel Gatto Bianco: Check prices and availability.
Hotel Mamela
Tucked away behind the famous Via Camerelle is a quiet laneway where you’ll find the newly renovated 4 star Hotel Mamela. While the hotel’s origins date back to the 19th century, it has been run by the Maresca family since 1964. The hotel features spacious light filled suites, impeccably decorated with a blend of modern and classic Caprese style. You also have the option to enjoy suites with sea view terraces and/or the lush surrounding bougainvillea filled gardens of nearby private villas.
Its infinity pool with lavish bed loungers might persuade you to avoid the beach crowds altogether and spend relaxing afternoons poolside with plates of Insalata Caprese and chilled Greco di Tufo!
Hotel Mamela: Check prices and availability.
Hotel La Reginella
This cosy 2 star hotel is located in the local suburb of Matermania nestled amongst Caprese homes and gardens in the mountain above Capri town. While the uphill walk might deter some, the spectacular views of Marina Piccola Bay and the community neighbourhood feel of this hotel make the trek worthwhile.
Located on the path to the Arco Naturale, Piazzetta della Noce and the coastal Pizzolungo walk, Hotel La Reginella is the perfect base for those who enjoy hiking. Plus, you’ll also have a head start up the mountain of Tiberio to visit Villa Lysis, Villa Jovis and Parco Astarita.
With a small supermarket, Café Manari and local restaurants such as La Palette, Le Grotelle, Da Tonino and Lo Sfizio nearby, you will be able to immerse yourself in a different side of the island and enjoy your own slice of Capri paradise like the locals.
Comfortably styled rooms and the warm hospitality of owner, Holland born, Alex Hinsen, make this hotel an affordable gem. Like so many hotels in Capri, this property too has an interesting history. Hotel La Reginella was founded by the famous violinist Paolo Falco and has been a pivotal setting for various artists over the years.
Hotel La Reginella: Check prices and availability.
Hotel 4 Stagioni
As its name suggests, Hotel 4 Stagioni is one of the very few hotels that remain open year round. Don’t be fooled by the one star rating. It has everything you need for an affordable and practical stay on the island complete with views of Marina Piccola. The property is comfortable and clean with more than accommodating staff.
It is conveniently located with easy access to all 4 corners of the island and just a short walk to Marina Piccola beach and the Piazzetta. Plus, a bus stop that will take you to Anacapri or Marina Grande is just across the road. It is also located nearby one of the few larger supermarkets on the island.
Hotel 4 Stagioni: Check prices and availability.
Villas and Apartment Rentals
Villa Mariuccia
If you’re looking for apartment style accommodation on one of the most exclusive streets in Capri, you can’t go past Villa Mariuccia which is located on Via Tragara, only metres away from the viewing
terrace of the majestic Faraglioni.
There are 6 apartments that accommodate between 2 and 6 persons and are modern, yet still full of Caprese charm. Perfect for those looking for a more homely and private stay with more self
sufficiency.
Villa Mariuccia: Check pricing and availability.
Anacapri Villa
If you’re travelling to Capri as a family, a group of friends or just wanting more space and you’d like to experience the more uncovered island in the privacy of your own villa and surrounds, then this villa, located nearby our villa garden in Anacapri, is the perfect option.
Located in a quiet cul de sac, 10 minute walk from Anacapri centre or a bus ride to the Blue Grotto, the villa enjoys sunset sea views, pool, wood fire pizza oven and outdoor dining areas. It has 5 double bedrooms and 4 bathrooms and large indoor dining and lounge areas over 2 levels in picturesque traditional island style.
Start the day with home cooked breakfast by your own private Chef and end the day admiring the sunset from the comfort of the villa! Weekly rental includes daily cleaning, WIFI, gourmet breakfast and linen change every 3 days and private transfer service upon arrival and departure.
Michel’angelo is only a stone’s throw away, so you can also book to join us at our location for any food experiences or we can come to you.
Ana Capri Villa: For more information, pricing and availably email or call us through our contact page.
Il Tramonto- The Sunset B&B
This lovely B&B has 4 comfortable rooms, each facing directly at the sea view and as the name suggests, the sunset! Luciana, the owner, and her family live on the property and are always available to assist and provide information and tips. Luciana prepares delicious homemade breakfast treats and you’ll also spot her conveniently around at aperitivo time to prepare a little something to enjoy the sunset show!
Only a 10 minute walk from Anacapri centre, Il Tramonto is also located on route to the spectacular Migliera lookout in one direction and the Monte Solaro chairlift in the other. It is one of the few accommodation properties that is open year round on the island and is well priced, tranquil and homely.
Il Tramonto: Check prices and availability.
Il Carrubo
The stunning villa recently opened in 2019 and offers 6 rooms with ensuite bathrooms and private entry. Its surrounding grounds of some 8000 square metres include a terrace where the Carob tree (from which the villa derives its name) stands, a perfectly positioned pool with sea views and a large garden.
The pool loungers might entice you to spend lazy Summer days with a book watching the sunset directly behind Ischia while sipping on a chilled local wine or Aperol Spritz. As a side, enjoy a crusty bruschetta topped with sweet, rich cherry tomatoes, torn basil and drizzled with organic extra virgin olive oil.
Il Carrubo is run by a young, energetic and hands on team who are fulfilling their dream to share their family villa while offering an authentic Caprese experience. Breakfast of home grown produce is served on the picturesque wisteria draped pergola.
On the bus route between the Grotta Azzurra and Anacapri centre, find Il Carrubo opposite the Roman ruins of Damecuta. It is the perfect location for those who would like to immerse themselves amongst nature and tranquillity, yet luxurious atmosphere.
Il Carrabo: Check prices and availability.
Casa Rumminichiello
If you’re after a casual and practical stay in a centrally located Anacaprese casa, our friend Monica is a superhost of an AirBnB room at her home, Casa Rumminichiello. The self contained double room has an independent entry and bathroom. Enjoy breakfast on the cute outdoor terrace under a lemon tree!
Enjoy and ci vediamo presto a Capri!
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Thank you for the great information. I am trying to decide between 2 hotels – Hotel Villa Brunella and Hotel La Minerva. What would be your recommendation? Also what are your favorite restaurants in Capri.
Hi Pam, I would probably book Villa Brunella because that is one my friend Holly recommended in the post. I’m sure both are lovely choices though. My favorite restaurant in Capri was Michelangelo’s. However, they have now shifted their focus on takeaway picnics and cooking classes at their villa… so I would book one of those!
Great blog. I just spent 4 days researching Capri villas and hotels and found this just after booking Hotel Luna. I’m happy to have confirmation that it is wonderful. We stayed at the Tiberio Palace several years ago and loved it, but the 5 star hotels have doubled in price, so we decided to go with lovely 4 star and stay longer this time.
PS- falling in love with capri inspired me to start my own blog and travel instagram!
Hi Scarlett, just wanted to say thank you for this wonderful blog. My girlfriend and I just got back to Australia after a three week holiday in Italy. We spent 5 days on Capri and stayed at Hotel Luna – which was the highlight of our trip! We also spent some time in Positano, and had a great day at Arienzo beach club – which I also knew to do after reading another one of your blog pages.
Hi Chris,
Thank you so much for your comment. So glad to hear you enjoyed your trip and the recommendations!
We’ve been struggling with hotels in Capri for an upcoming trip that my college girlfriends and I are planning. This article is fantastic! We’ll be looking at Holly’s recommendations. Next I’ll read your post on Sorrento, another of our stops. Thank you so much for sharing all this 8nformation!
I have heard from a few people that hotels are starting to fill up already! Hope you find something that suits you. Have a wonderful trip!
After two day trips to Capri from Positano & Sorrento as our base, we just booked a 5 night stay on Capri so we can fully immerse ourselves. Already booked our cooking class with Holly & GIanluca . . . one of the main reasons we fell in love with the island years ago.
Would appreciate your suggestions for restaurants and activities/excursions.
Thank you.
How exciting! Five nights will be wonderful. I would visit Holly’s page on Instagram (linked above in the article). She has a lot of highlights saved with insider tips on unique things to do and restaurants they visit. Her stories are like a mini vacation to watch!
Loved reading your blog! We are going to book the hotel canasta of what you suggested in your block. We arrive into Naples on Friday the sixth and depart early morning Wednesday the 11th.
We have five days to spend in the Amalfi as a whole with our second base being in Positano. Here’s my question. Do we do four nights in Positano so that we can see Ravello, Amalfi and Positano etc. and one night on Capri? Or two nights on capri and three nights on Positano. I just wanna make sure we have enough time to see everything. Or do you suggest one night on Capri three nights in Positano in one night in Ravello? Thank you so much
That is a tough question, Wendy! I would say it depends on how much of Capri you want to see. Between the beach clubs, archeological sites, visiting Anacapri, boat tours and shopping you could easily fill up two days. If you just want to go to the beach, do a cooking class with Holly, and go to the main Capri town, then one night will be enough.
It also depends on where you want to spend the most time, transportation between them and what hotels you want to stay in (and how much you want to change hotels). Those are all wonderful places though and you are sure to have a nice time!
I would like whatever information you may share regarding a vacation I would like to plan for my wife’s birthday in 2023.
September or October is preferable. She wishes to see Capri, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast. We’re retired and not super rich but like “Nice”.
We are open to staying on mainland and commuting.
Saw your website and am very impressed with the scope of information it provides.
Also, where can I get a detailed (street) map of the areas I mentioned.
Thank you.
Hi Tony, What a lovely birthday trip! If you want to stay on the mainland and day trip to Positano and other towns on the Amalfi Coast, I would suggest you consider Sorrento. There are easy transportation options from there and you can find “nice” hotels for a little less than Positano. Be sure to read my post on Sorrento (https://www.petitesuitcase.com/things-you-cant-miss-in-sorrento/). My post on how to get to Positano is specific to Positano, but will also have some good transportation information in general and links to bus/ferry schedules (read here: https://www.petitesuitcase.com/how-to-get-to-positano/).
I use Google Maps. It’s great for directions, transportation and even reviews.
Grazi mille…thankyou…now planning a future longer languished stay in Capri after 2020 failed plans…oceans of wishes 🦋
Capri is the perfect place for a long, relaxing stay. Hope you are able to reschedule soon!