Capri, Italy: Carry-On Travel Guide
Our Capri travel guide will show you that Capri isn’t just a destination — it’s a daydream.
Sun-drenched days, cliffside cafés, and the bluest water you’ve ever seen — Capri lives up to the hype. From lemon groves to linen fits, it’s the Euro summer fantasy brought to life.
Whether you’re cruising past the Faraglioni or sipping espresso in Piazza Umberto, Capri oozes style — and demands packing light. Trust us, Capri and wheeled suitcases do not get along. With our Capri travel guide, you'll be all set with the best spots to eat, swim, stay, and explore — all with just one carry-on.
🗺️ Capri Travel Guide: What to Do in Capri
Hire a Boat Around the Island
Rent a small boat from Marina Grande and cruise past the Faraglioni, swim in the Blue Grotto, and stop for lunch at a restaurant only accessible by sea. Many skippers double as guides, sharing Roman history and island legends as you go.
Walk the Punta Tragara Path
This scenic walk takes you past grand hotels and cliffside villas, and panoramic views of the Faraglioni. At the lookout beneath Hotel Punta Tragara, reward yourself with an ice-cold granita from the local stand that's beautifully adorned with fresh fruit.
Visit the Gardens of Augustus
Lush terraces with sweeping views over the sea and Via Krupp, the Gardens of Augustus are one of the best places to get that postcard-perfect shot surrounded by the island's most vibrant blooms.
Day Trip to Anacapri
Catch the bus (or hike if you're up for it) to Capri’s quieter sister town. Explore charming streets, shop for handmade sandals, or ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro for the island’s highest view.
Hike to Villa Jovis
A rewarding hike to the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ cliff-top palace. Steeped in history and drama, with epic views over the Bay of Naples. The path is well-marked and takes 30-40 minutes each way from Piazza Umberto.
Go Shopping
There is no shortage on the island when it comes to luxury boutiques. Spend the afternoon browsing boutiques like Dior, Valentino, Hermès and Aquazzura — or venture beyond the big names to discover Capri’s artisanal side. The island is known for its handmade leather sandals (you can even have a pair custom-fitted while you wait) and small-batch perfumes inspired by local botanicals. Look out for historic boutiques like Carthusia for fragrance and Canfora for sandals, both with cult followings and rich island heritage. Capri may be glamorous, but its soul lives in the details, and the craftsmanship is part of the magic.
🍝 Capri Travel Guide: Where to Eat in Capri
Da Paolino – Lemon Grove Dining
An icon for a reason. Dine beneath glowing lemon trees at this dreamy family-run restaurant tucked into the hillside above Marina Grande. Order the lemon risotto or seafood linguine, and definitely save room for dessert. Bookings essential.
📍 Via Palazzo a Mare, 11
Instagram | Website
Buonocore Gelateria – Gelato Worth the Queue
You’ll smell the fresh waffle cones before you see the line. Capri’s best gelato spot serves handmade flavours straight from a postcard. Try the Fantasia di Capri – a house specialty flavour that lives up to its name.
📍 Via Vittorio Emanuele, 35
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Bar Tiberio – Aperitivo in the Square
The perfect pre-dinner stop for an Aperol Spritz and prime people-watching in the buzzing Piazza Umberto.
📍 Piazza Umberto I
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Aurora – Caviar Pasta
A local favourite with a celebrity following. Book ahead and try their signature angel hair salted butter caviar pasta. It’s Capri decadence on a plate. Be sure to head downstairs to check out the restaurant's underground wine cave – it's a true hidden gem.
📍 Via Fuorlovado, 18
Instagram | Website
Zuma Capri – Elevated Japanese Cuisine
Newly opened and located at Capri Palace Jumeirah, Zuma brings modern Japanese flavours and elevated energy to Anacapri. Don’t miss the spicy tuna crispy rice, miso black cod, and lobster tempura maki — bold flavours with a view to match. 📍 Capri Palace Jumeirah, Anacapri Instagram | Website
Capri Rooftop – Scenic Cocktails
This rooftop above Hotel Luna offers panoramic Tyrrhenian Sea views in a space that’s both relaxed and refined. Expect effortless luxury, expertly mixed drinks, and a front-row seat to Capri's most iconic view out over the Faraglioni rocks. Come for golden hour and stay as the coastline lights up for the night. 📍 Via Matteotti, 7 Instagram | Website
La Palma Beach Club – Beachside Bites & Spritzes
Part of the newly reopened Hotel La Palma, this spot is made for long, indulgent lunches and beachfront lounging with a side of people-watching. Order a glass of crisp white wine (or two) after taking a dip in the sea, and relax into la dolce vita at La Palma Beach Club. 📍 Marina Piccola Instagram | Website
Pescheria Le Botteghe – Casual & Cool
A casual seafood spot that surprises with its legendary fish burgers. Local, unfussy, and exactly what you’ll crave after a day at the beach. Be sure to book ahead, as this hole in the wall fills up pronto.
📍 Via Le Botteghe, 19
Instagram | Website
🌊 Capri Travel Guide: Where to Swim in Capri
La Fontelina Beach Club – Iconic & Luxe
Set into the cliffside just below the towering Faraglioni rocks, La Fontelina is Capri’s most iconic beach club — and for good reason. With striped loungers, turquoise water, and service that lets you stay put, it’s the ultimate slow-luxury escape. Book ahead, wear your best linen, and plan to stay all day. 📍 Via dei Faraglioni, 2 Instagram | Website
Marina Piccola – Local & Laidback
Located on the southern side of the island, just a 15-minute downhill walk or a short bus ride from Piazza Umberto, Marina Piccola is Capri’s laid-back alternative to the glossier beach clubs. It offers a mix of public swimming spots and casual beach clubs, with a stunning view out to the Faraglioni rocks. The water is calm and clear, and a couple of cafés serve fresh-made panini and lemon granita — the perfect simple pleasures to savour between swims in one of Capri’s most picturesque coves.
Punta Carena Lighthouse – Sunset Swims
Built in 1867, this is one of Italy’s oldest lighthouses — and a local favourite for cliffside swims and sunset views. The deep, clear water is perfect for an afternoon dip, with the sun setting directly over the sea. Don’t miss the kiosk carved into the rocks for a chilled drink and front-row seat to golden hour. 📍 Via Faro, Anacapri
🛏️ Capri Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Capri
Let’s be real — Capri isn’t cheap, and accommodation is where that really shows. But whether you’re going all-in on a luxury suite or just want somewhere basic to rest after a long day in the sun, there are options. We’ve rounded up a mix of iconic hotels, boutique stays, and great-value picks so you can choose how much you splurge — and still wake up to that signature Capri magic.
Budget-friendly: Airbnb
There are plenty of charming Airbnb stays to be found across the island, from tucked-away guesthouses to sun-drenched villas — just be sure to book early if you’re visiting in the summer peak. For a quieter (and often more affordable) experience, consider staying in Anacapri — it’s much more low-key than central Capri, but perfect if you’re craving space and calm.
Mid-range: Hotel Mamela
A great-value find in a prime location. The rooms are simple, but what sets this hotel apart is the pool — rare for Capri at this price point, and it has a fun, buzzy vibe that makes it feel far more luxe than the rate suggests. Instagram | Website
Luxury: Grand Hotel Quisisana
Capri’s most iconic hotel, where old-school glamour meets five-star luxury. With marble floors, manicured gardens, and sweeping sea views, it’s the kind of place where you’ll half-expect to spot a 1960s movie star by the pool. A favourite of celebrities and royals for decades, it’s timeless, elegant, and just steps from the best boutiques and restaurants the island has to offer. Instagram | Website
Luxury: Hotel La Palma
Freshly reopened and seriously chic, Hotel La Palma brings the party to Capri. With sleek interiors, a rooftop bar, and a beach club made for people-watching, it’s where glam meets good times — all just steps from the action. Instagram | Website
🎒 Why Carry-On Only Is the Best Way to Do Capri
Capri is stunning — but it’s not very suitcase-friendly. The island’s charm lies in its narrow lanes, stairs, and clifftop views. But that means:
- No cars in central Capri
- Long bus, taxi, and funicular queues (hours, not minutes)
- Uneven paths and steep hills (the port to Piazza Umberto is a 25-minute uphill walk)
- Ferry trips to and from the island
Packing light means total freedom. With a backpack, you can skip queues, move easily on foot, and settle into island life faster.
The Flow 40L Travel Backpack is perfect for getting to Capri, where your travel day might involve planes, trains, ferries and cars — and plenty of time on foot. It’s carry-on approved, opens like a suitcase for easy packing, and is built for comfort on long travel days. Pair it with our Large Packing Cube and Small Packing Cube to keep your clothes, swimwear, and other belongings organised and ready for whatever your Capri adventure brings.
Our top tip
From sun-soaked swims to scenic hikes, Capri is cinematic and unforgettable — every corner could be a postcard. Our Capri Travel Guide is designed to help you uncover the very best places to eat, swim, stay, and wander — all while packing light. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to chase that same golden-hour magic, let this Capri Travel Guide be your shortcut to the island’s most unforgettable experiences.
If you take one thing from our Capri Travel Guide, our top tip is simply this: pack light, stay curious, and embrace the minimalist carry-on life. It makes the island feel even more magical.
With the right tips, the right carry-on, and this Capri Travel Guide in hand, you’re set for a trip that’s as seamless as it is spectacular.
Planning more adventures?
Want more like our Capri travel guide? Explore our other World of Swae destination guides, carry-on packing tips, and expert travel advice — all made for one-bag travellers, or follow us on Instagram for more travel inspo ✈️