Capri or Anacapri: Which Town to Stay In On the Island of Capri

Both Capri town and Anacapri boast spectacular views. Photo from Monte Solaro in Anacapri.

The island of Capri boasts not one, but two, beautiful towns: Capri and Anacapri. While you’ll be able to visit both towns during your time in Capri, each one has a different character—so especially if you’re deciding where to stay on Capri, it’s important to know the differences between them.

So Capri… or Anacapri? Here’s a guide to help you decide! (And don’t miss our post on what to do in Capri if you’re there for a day trip!).

For a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, head to Anacapri

Quiet streets of Anacapri

Both towns get crowded during summer, but Anacapri certainly has a more tranquil feel. The streets in Capri town are constantly vibrant, but you’ll find plenty of quiet alleys in Anacapri.

Of course, that’s no surprise: Capri town is closer to Marina Grande, where ferries dock, so most visitors will make their way to the charming piazzetta or hang around the town prior to their departure.

Both towns boast gorgeous views, but the view from Anacapri’s Monte Solaro is especially breathtaking

The view from Villa San Michele in Anacapri

From the top of Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, you have striking, 360-degree views of the island. The summit can be reached either on foot or (for a fee) by taking the chairlift. Another spot for great views in Anacapri is Villa San Michele.

That said, Capri town does have some stunning views, too. From the Gardens of Augustus, you also have a fabulous view of the iconic Faraglioni rocks. And from Villa Jovis, a Roman villa perched above the town, you can take in the entire view of the entire Bay of Naples, as well as Ischia and Procida! (Don’t miss our post on 5 of the most beautiful islands in Italy!).

For walking trails, either Capri town or Anacapri 

In Anacapri, the walking trail to Monte Solaro, which takes about an hour, starts close to Villa San Michele. (You can’t miss it, as you’ll see a sign for Monte Solaro). Another fantastic walk in Anacapri is along Via del Migliara, a route that dates back to Roman times; today, it winds past vineyards and orchards. Only about a kilometer long, it’s a pleasant stroll where at the end of the route, you will be treated to a fantastic view overlooking the southern coastline. From there, you can even take the path to Torre del Guardia, an ancient watch tower.

Walking trail to Villa Jovis. Photo by Mcc4985 (Wikimedia Commons)

To truly get off the beaten path, the Sentiero dei Fortini (or “Trail of Forts”) in Anacapri runs along the western coastline, starting from the Blue Grotto and heading to the Punta Carena Lighthouse. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the “wilder” side of the island!

Capri town also boasts a stunning coastal walk, known as the Pizzolungo, that takes you to Punta Tragara, bringing you up close to the Faraglioni rocks. Though more challenging, another option is the steep uphill walk to Villa Jovis, which takes about 40 minutes from the piazzetta in Capri. Along the way, you will pass some beautifully-kept homes with gorgeous verdant gardens—and, of course,when you get to the top, the view is amazing!

When in Capri, you also can’t miss the famous Via Krupp, the zig-zag street that leads to Marina Piccola.

For beautifully-preserved Roman ruins, Capri town 

Ruins at Villa Jovis. Photo by Psychs (Wikimedia commons)

Are Roman ruins your thing? Then don’t miss Villa Jovis, in Capri town. It’s one of the twelve villas built on the island by Emperor Tiberius in the 1st century AD. Because it’s so well-preserved, it’s easy to grasp the villa’s grandeur: Spanning more than 7,000 square meters (2 acres) and built on several levels, it once housed thermal baths, servant accommodations, and official function rooms.

For one of Italy’s most gorgeous gardens, Anacapri

Looking for a more verdant landscape? The lovely garden at Villa San Michele in Anacapri won’t disappoint. Considered one of the finest gardens in Italy, it not only boasts stunning views, but a serene and well-kept garden overflowing with flowers!

For long stretches of sandy beaches, neither one

If you’re coming to the Capri for long stretches of sandy beach… prepare for disappointment! The beaches on the island are either pebbled, or solid rock.

…but for glamorous beaches (and beach clubs), either Anacapri or Capri town

Many beach-goers adore Capri anyhow. That’s because both Capri town and Anacapri are home to fabulous beach clubs that sit at the edge of the crystal-clear, turquoise waters. These beach clubs are well-equipped with sun decks, and often have fabulous restaurants, too—all making for an unforgettable day by the sea.

Marina Piccola in Capri town. Photo by Tango7174 (Wikimedia Commons)

One of the most popular spots among locals is Lido di Faro, on Anacapri, where you get the sun the entire day. This exclusive beach club even boasts a seawater swimming pool, plus is renowned for their acclaimed restaurant.

In Capri town, you have some equally glamorous clubs, especially in Marina Piccola, which can be easily reached by walking down Via Krupp. The most famous, La Canzone del Mare, attracts many high-profile visitors; it also offers some luxurious suites.

While many of these private beach clubs come at a price, Capri town has some free beaches, too. One is in Marina Grande, close to where the ferries dock. The water is incredibly clear, but it can be extremely packed. At Marina Piccola, you’ll also find free beaches on either side of the Siren’s Rock.

For designer shopping, Capri town; for artisanal goods, Anacapri

As a destination for the rich and famous, Capri has a wide array of high-end fashion stores. On Capri town’s Via Camerelle, you’ll find that practically every fashion house has a store!

If you’d rather shop for artisanal or local products, head to Viale Axel Munthe in Anacapri, where you’ll find shops with plenty of specialized clothing and crafts.

For people-watching, Capri town

For people-watching, there is no better place than Piazza Umberto I, also better known as the “piazzetta” (little piazza), in Capri town. The heart of Capri’s social scene, this small yet charming square, lined with cafes and restaurants, bustles throughout the day and night!

For gawking at gorgeous mosaics, Anacapri 

For a beautiful (but quieter) sight, duck into the Church of San Michele in Anacapri. The church boasts a spectacular 12th-century, hand-painted mosaic floor depicting the story of expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.

Get the best gelato in Capri town… the best torta caprese Anacapri in

Jonesing for a sweet treat? Gelato at Buonocore in Capri town is an all-time favorite. But don’t miss the torta caprese at Pasticceria Ferraro in Anacapri, either.

Have you been to Capri? Which town did you prefer? Tell us in the comments!