24 Hours in Capri: A Luxury Yacht Insider’s Guide

Just 19 miles off Italy’s Amalfi Coast, in the Bay of Naples, is where you will find striking limestone cliffs rising out of the sea, and the iconic yachting destination of Capri. Once, humble fishing villages and a traditional way of life dominated the entire island’s small harbors dotted over the hillsides, but today, throngs of Mediterranean summer crowds descend upon the island to get a taste of its glamor and exclusivity.

And rightly so, popular for many reasons, the compact yet alluring island is only four square miles, but it offers a lot for its size. Its two villages —Capri and Anacapri—each bring their own personality. At the island’s heart is Capri with stylish boutiques, cobbled alleyways, and a bustling Piazzetta. Its other side, the more rugged Anacapri, sits at the island’s highest point, rewarding those who make the journey with panoramic views and quieter spots.

Accessed only by water or helicopter, it is no wonder Capri frequently features on an Italian yacht charter itinerary. A yachting hotspot full of famous coastal features, scenic gardens, bougainvillea-draped villages, picture-perfect squares, top-tier restaurants, beach clubs, hiking, and sunset spots, you will find plenty to do on Capri. However, if you are short on time and only have 24 hours to spare on this exclusive enclave, here is how we recommend you spend it:

Morning: A stylish start

Starting any time in Capri, especially as a yacht guest, will begin at Marina Grande, Capri’s main harbour. Enjoy an alfresco breakfast on deck while watching the hustle and bustle of the day as it begins. From here, hop into an open-top private car for the winding switchbacks up to Capri town. Once at the top, wander arrow lanes lined with chic boutiques, artisanal cafes, and impressive architecture.

The Piazzetta di Capri is at the heart, hailed as the island’s “living room,” and is famous for people and celebrity spotting. Take in the ancient clock tower and the historic buildings surrounding you here. For haute couture boutiques and artisan shops, head to Via Camerelle.

And just a short walk away are the Gardens of Augustus. Wander this botanical garden here in the early morning to avoid crowds, stroll the winding paths lined with fragrant flowers, sculpted hedges, and ancient statues, all while enjoying all the viewpoints to take in the picture-perfect views across the iconic Faraglioni rocks.

Afternoon: Iconic indulgence to the wild side

Back down at sea level, and where many yacht guests hang out is La Fontelina Beach Club, a staple on many yacht charter itineraries. Located at the foot of the Faraglinoni rock formations and established in 1949, this remote strip of rock platform beach has welcomed many famous faces over the years and continues to do so today. A refined yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a long, leisurely lunch in true Capri-style. Enjoy fresh Mediterranean seafood and Italian classics, and cool off for a swim afterward.

Continue this relaxing vibe for the rest of the afternoon, especially when back on board a yacht charter. But if you are land-based, there are also plenty of luxury spas to check out. The Capri Tiberio Palace Spa is known for its Zen-like atmosphere and all-natural products, and it features both indoor and outdoor pools. But, for those looking for a more active afternoon, head to the wilder and more remote sites of the islands and take the Path of the Forts trail that skirts around the western coastline.

This scenic coastal walk is perfect for those wanting to get beyond the usual beach club and tender spots. Along the way, you will see remnants of old military fortifications, adding a layer of historical context to the walk. Choose to start at one end, near the Punta Carena lighthouse, or the famous Blue Grotto, and loop back, or get your tender or driver to pick you up for a one-way hike.

The Blue Grotto would be an ideal end to the walk, or a straight tender transfer from the yacht after lunch. One of the island’s most famous natural wonders, the small, sea-filled cave is notable for sunlight passing through an underwater cavity that bathes the entire grotto in an ethereal, glowing blue light.

Early Evening: Golden Hour across the Bay

For sunset, the island has multiple opportunities to enjoy. If you are looking for some of the best views ashore, make your way to Monte Solaro, Capri’s highest point of elevation, accessed by a short scenic chairlift ride from Anacapri’s Piazza Vittoria. Giving 360-degree panoramic views of the Faraglinion rocks, the Bay of Naples, and the Amalfi Coast as the sun dips below the horizon.

Being on an Italian island, it would be rude not to indulge in the social ritual of aperitivo while here. Hailed as the land of lemons, Limoncello steals the show on Capri as its signature liquor and is regularly served as a spritz. Aperol and Campari are also staples, alongside local whites— Fiano in particular. But the setting is what really defines the island’s sundowner scene, enjoyed on open-air terraces, like at the Capri Rooftop, the bar of Hotel Luna, or on board a luxury yacht anchored.

Evening: Classic Capri addresses

For dinner ashore, there are various options. One of the most sought-after is booking a table at Da Paolino, just above Marina Granda. An extremely photogenic restaurant, this lemon-tree-filled garden is a quintessential Capri experience, where you dine beneath the canopy of citrus trees. The lemon spaghetti is a signature dish here, as is the caprese salad (aptly named after the island). 

Or, for a Michelin-starred experience, secure a table at Il Riccio. The one-star establishment, part of the Capri Palace Hotel and Spa, is set just above the water near the Blue Grotto, accessible by tender. And, true to its name, which translates to “sea urchin,” the Mediterranean menu focuses on fish and seafood. To round off, there is a dedicated dessert room full of temptations.

Typically, a visit to Capri by yacht is part of a longer yacht charter itinerary that includes iconic spots beginning in Naples and cruising the Amalfi Coast. Charming villages dot the dramatic coastline and are among the most alluring and romantic destinations for Mediterranean yacht charters. Adventurous visitors can hike the famous Path of the Gods and explore the hilltop villages, while secluded coves and bays are ideal for yacht hopping.

Other itineraries within the Bay of Naples include the volcanic islands of Ischia, the largest and greenest, offering thermal springs, beaches, and various anchoring options. The quieter alternative to Capri is the tranquil Procida, and farther out, the lesser-visited Pontine Islands.

A Day Well Spent

One day in Capri may not feel enough, but you can truly experience the charm of the island, from sunrise to sunset, especially from the luxury of a yacht charter. An iconic Italian destination that rewards those who indulge, explore, and relax into all it has to offer. Meander through chic towns, fragrant lemon groves, discover hidden coves by tender, and savor the array of dining options. Whether it’s a quick stopover or part of a longer Amalfi Coast yacht charter itinerary, Capri delivers a true taste of la dolce vita.