How to Reach Capri Island Tour — Directions & Tips (2025)
Get to Capri smoothly: the best routes from Naples, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast and Rome. Ferry vs hydrofoil, ports, tickets, luggage rules, and time-saving tips for tours that start at Marina Grande.
Plan Your Capri TourQuick Overview
Mainland ports: Naples (Molo Beverello = hydrofoils; Porta di Massa = ferries) and Sorrento (Marina Piccola). Seasonal links from Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno (spring–autumn). Capri arrival: Marina Grande for all ferries/hydrofoils & most tours.
Fastest Route
Hydrofoil Naples (Molo Beverello) → Capri in ~45–55 min; Sorrento → Capri in ~20–30 min.
Most Budget-Friendly
Conventional ferry (Porta di Massa) takes ~60–85 min from Naples; more stable in choppy seas.
Option 1 — From Naples
Best hub for most travelers; frequent sailings year-round.
- Which port? Molo Beverello (hydrofoils: faster, pricier) or Porta di Massa (ferries: slower, cheaper).
- From Naples Centrale (Garibaldi): Metro L1 to Municipio for Beverello (short walk), or taxi (15–25 min).
- From Naples Airport (NAP): Alibus to Beverello/Porta di Massa (~30–40 min) or taxi.
- Boarding time: Arrive 30–45 min early in peak months for ticket scan and baggage drop if needed.
Luggage & Seating
One small carry-on is usually fine; large suitcases often incur a fee and are stowed separately. Seating is open on many hydrofoils—queue early for groups to sit together.
Option 2 — From Sorrento
Port & Time
Depart Marina Piccola (Sorrento). Hydrofoils reach Capri in ~20–30 minutes with frequent summer service.
How to Get Down
Walk or take the elevator from town to the marina; allow extra time during busy hours and cruise-ship days.
Best For
Day-trippers staying along the Sorrento coast who want the quickest crossing and early morning starts.
Pro Tip
Choose early departures (before 10:00) for smoother seas, less queueing, and easier tour check-ins.
Option 3 — Amalfi, Positano & Salerno (Seasonal)
Spring to autumn, direct boats connect Positano, Amalfi, and sometimes Salerno to Capri. Crossings typically take ~40–90 minutes depending on route and sea conditions.
- Sea conditions matter: Wind/swell can cause delays or cancellations—keep a backup plan.
- Boarding: Small piers get crowded—arrive early and pack light (hands free for boarding).
- Return timing: Last boats can sell out—secure your return when buying the outbound ticket.
Option 4 — From Rome (Same-Day Possible)
High-Speed Train to Naples
Take Frecciarossa/Italo from Roma Termini → Napoli Centrale (≈70–75 min). Then Metro L1 or taxi to the port.
Timing Buffer
Allow ~60–90 min transfer cushion in case of rail delays and to collect ferry tickets comfortably.
Tour Sync
Book a Capri tour with a late-morning start or “flexible entry” window. Always check the last return to Naples.
Alternative
Join a Rome-to-Capri day trip with rail segment included to simplify connections and schedules.
On Arrival at Marina Grande (Capri)
To Capri Town
Funicular to the Piazzetta (~5 min). Buy tickets at the kiosk beside the station; queues move quickly.
To Anacapri
Local bus or taxi from the port; the chairlift to Monte Solaro offers top-of-island views.
Tour Check-in
Most boat tours meet on the Marina Grande quay—have your mobile voucher ready; look for the operator’s sign.
Baggage & Storage
Left-luggage services are available near the port. Traveling light makes boarding boats and buses easier.
Car-Free Reality
Visitors generally do not drive on Capri. Even when car ferries operate, non-resident vehicles face restrictions. Park on the mainland and use boats + local transport.
Practical Tips
Tickets
Buy online in summer; bring ID matching your booking. For families, check child fares and stroller rules.
Weather & Seas
Hydrofoils are faster but bumpier; ferries are slower and steadier. If swells rise, schedules may shift—monitor updates.
What to Pack
Sunhat, reef-safe sunscreen, water, light layer (sea breeze), non-slip shoes, and a dry bag for phones/cameras.
Accessibility
Piers can involve steps and gaps. Ask operators about assistance, ramps, and accessible restrooms before booking.
Blue Grotto Note
Opening depends on sea conditions. Entry is via small rowboats with an on-site fee; swimming is not allowed.
Getting There Cheatsheet
Ports at a Glance
Naples: Molo Beverello (hydrofoil), Porta di Massa (ferry) • Sorrento: Marina Piccola • Capri: Marina Grande
Typical Crossing Times
Naples → Capri: 45–85 min • Sorrento → Capri: 20–30 min • Positano/Amalfi (seasonal): 40–90 min
Arrive Early
Be at the pier 30–45 min before departure in high season; earlier if checking larger bags.
Apps & Info
Use operator apps/sites for live sailings; Google Maps for transfers; Trenitalia/Italo for Rome–Naples trains.
Seat Strategy
Hydrofoil windows = views but limited fresh air; outdoor decks on ferries are breezier and steadier.
Return Trip
Reserve your return early (especially last boats). Weather can change quickly in the afternoon.
Ready to Explore Capri?
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