Where to stay in Capri: areas, accommodation and budget tips

Why stay overnight in Capri

Capri needs no introduction: the Blue Grotto, the Faraglioni stacks, the Piazzetta are Mediterranean icons. But sleeping on the island, rather than just taking a day trip from Naples, offers a completely different experience. In the evening, when the last hydrofoil departs and the organised groups leave, Capri transforms into an intimate, quiet place where sunsets can be enjoyed in near solitude.

The island is divided into two municipalities: Capri, on the eastern side with the famous Piazzetta, and Anacapri, higher up and less glamorous. Your choice between the two defines the character of your stay.

Best areas to stay

Capri town and the Piazzetta

The glamorous heart of the island, home to luxury boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants and nightlife venues. Hotels here are mostly upmarket, with summer prices easily exceeding 300 euros per night. The advantage is proximity to the funicular rising from Marina Grande harbour and a central position for exploring the Gardens of Augustus and the Charterhouse of San Giacomo.

Anacapri

The island's second municipality, perched on the higher ground, is ideal for those seeking tranquillity and more affordable prices. The chairlift to Monte Solaro, the island's highest point with 360-degree views, departs from here. Accommodation ranges from small family-run hotels to apartments with gardens. The atmosphere is more relaxed and authentic, with trattorias still serving genuine Caprese cuisine.

Marina Grande and Marina Piccola

Marina Grande is the main port, the first point of arrival on the island. A few hotels here offer direct sea access and views of ferries coming and going. Marina Piccola, on the southern coast, is more intimate, with exclusive bathing establishments and a handful of charming lodgings overlooking the Faraglioni.

Types of accommodation

Luxury hotels and boutique hotels

Capri is synonymous with high-end hospitality. Historic hotels around the Piazzetta offer impeccable service, infinity pools overlooking the sea and panoramic terraces. More recent boutique hotels focus on refined design and intimacy, with few rooms and personalised attention.

B&Bs and guesthouses

Especially in Anacapri, there is a good selection of B&Bs run by islanders who know every hidden corner. Rooms are simple but often have terraces overlooking the Bay of Naples. In low season, doubles start from 80-100 euros.

Holiday homes and apartments

The most affordable option for extended stays, particularly for families or small groups. Cooking at home saves significantly, given the high cost of dining out on the island.

Unique and special stays

Capri offers unique lodging experiences: from historic villas with bougainvillea gardens overlooking the sea to converted fishermen's houses at Marina Grande. Some properties in Anacapri occupy old farmhouses with tuff vaults and original majolica floors. For ultimate exclusivity, private villas with infinity pools and private sea access, reachable only by footpath, are available.

Practical budget tips

Visit Capri from October to April: prices halve and the island shows its most genuine face, without the summer crowds
Choose Anacapri over Capri town: for comparable amenities, you save 30-40%
Book at least 4-5 months ahead for summer: availability runs out quickly
Take the slow ferry instead of the hydrofoil from Naples: it costs half the price and the crossing is more scenic
Shop at the small supermarket in Anacapri rather than eating out every meal
Avoid August: it is the most expensive and crowded month, with prices potentially tripling compared to June

When to book

High season in Capri runs from June to September, peaking in early August. For this period, booking 5-6 months ahead is nearly mandatory. Spring (April-May) offers an excellent balance of weather and prices. Winter is the cheapest period, but some properties close and ferry services are reduced.

Getting around the island

Capri is served by a funicular between Marina Grande and the town centre, frequent buses between Capri and Anacapri, and the chairlift to Monte Solaro. Taxis exist but are expensive. Private cars cannot disembark on the island during summer months. The best way to explore is on foot, following the panoramic paths connecting the different areas.