Capri, Blue Grotto & Positano Full Day Private Tour from Naples

When you’re in Naples and craving a taste of Italy’s most picture-perfect coastlines, a full-day private tour to Capri and Positano might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded, memorable experience. Whether you’re arriving by cruise or staying in Naples, this adventure promises a blend of natural beauty, charming towns, and a touch of Italian glamour.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it packs two iconic destinations into one day, making efficient use of your time without sacrificing the magic of each place. Plus, the inclusion of a private guide and private transportation means you’ll avoid the crowds and have a more personalized experience. The chance to visit the Blue Grotto (weather permitting) and explore Positano’s colorful streets are definite highlights. That said, it’s worth noting the full-day length and some reliance on weather conditions might be considerations for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or are very sensitive to weather changes.

If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides, stunning vistas, and wandering through lively, cliffside villages, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the highlights of the Amalfi Coast in a single day without fussing over transportation logistics. However, keep in mind that the day will be quite packed, so if you’re after a slow, leisurely exploration, it might feel a bit rushed.

Key Points

• All-in-one Adventure: Combines visits to Capri and Positano in a single day, perfect for efficient travelers.
• Weather-dependent: The Blue Grotto visit relies heavily on good weather, so flexibility is key.
• Private guide & transportation: Offers a personalized experience with private guides and air-conditioned vans.
• Ferry rides included: Scenic boat trips provide a unique perspective of the coast, with an alternative shared boat tour if the Grotto is closed.
• Well-paced itinerary: About 9 hours total, covering key sights without feeling overly rushed.
• Moderate physical activity: Be prepared for walking through towns and some boat rides; good mobility helps.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point: Molo Beverello

Your journey kicks off early at the Naples port, Molo Beverello. This bustling hub is the gateway to some of Italy’s most stunning coastlines. The tour begins at 7:30 am, giving you a head start on the day’s adventures. From the moment you arrive, you’re in the hands of your guide and driver, who will accompany you throughout the day.

Fast Ferry to Capri: A Scenic Ride

Boarding a fast ferry, you’ll glide across the waters toward Capri — a trip that takes around 50 minutes. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the chance to settle into the seaside atmosphere early. You’ll love the way the scenery whips past — craggy cliffs, shimmering waters, and the promise of island wonders ahead.

Visiting the Blue Grotto (Weather Permitting)

The Blue Grotto is arguably the most iconic part of this trip. If weather allows, you’ll board a shared boat or shuttle to enter this natural cave famed for its surreal, glowing blue waters. The experience inside is quite something — calm, magical, and unforgettable. The guide’s insights can enrich your visit, and the boat ride around the island gives you a broader view of Capri’s caves and the famous Faraglioni rocks.

However, if the weather isn’t cooperating — which can happen — you’ll be taken on a shared boat tour around the island instead. This alternative still offers a chance to see the caves from the outside and enjoy the stunning coastline.

Exploring Marina Grande

Next, you’ll have some time in Capri’s Marina Grande, a picturesque harbor that’s perfect for soaking up the island’s atmosphere. It’s a lively spot with colorful boats, cafes, and shops. Many travelers find it a relaxing pause before heading to Positano, and it’s a great place for photos.

Ferry to Positano

The ferry ride from Capri to Positano is another scenic leg of your day. Expect around an hour on the water, with views of the dramatic coastlines and charming villages. It’s a fantastic way to experience the coast from the sea, and many find it the highlight of the trip.

Strolling Through Positano

Once in Positano, you’ll have approximately two hours to simply soak in the sights. The town is a dream for photographers, with colorful buildings cascading down cliffs and narrow streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Wander around, visit the stunning Spiaggia Grande beach, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Some travelers mention that the town’s charm is even better in person, making it worth taking some time to explore at your own pace.

Relaxing at Spiaggia Grande

The main beach in Positano, Spiaggia Grande, is perfect for a quick rest, swimming, or just lounging in the sun. This stop is about an hour long, giving you time to relax, take photos, or grab a snack before heading back.

Return Journey to Naples

After a full day of sightseeing, your private driver will take you back to Naples by air-conditioned van. The drive takes about an hour, allowing you to unwind while enjoying the scenery of the coast. Many travelers appreciate the comfort and convenience, especially after such a busy day.

Ending Point

Your tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Naples, giving you ample time to plan your evening or continue exploring the city.

Practical Insights & What to Expect

Transportation & Comfort

The tour’s use of private, air-conditioned vans and private guides means you’ll avoid the typical crowds and have a more tailored experience. The ferry rides are included, which is a bonus since they’re a key part of the journey and give you spectacular views of the coastline. The boat ride around Capri or to the Blue Grotto is shared, but it’s generally well-organized, and the reviews praise the boat experience as “excellent.”

Timing & Pacing

Starting early at 7:30 am, this tour is quite full-on. With about 9 hours of activity, expect a packed schedule. The itinerary is designed to maximize your time, but that means you’ll be moving steadily from one spot to another. Some might find it a bit rushed, especially if you like lingering longer in each town.

Cost & Value

At $814.16 per person, this isn’t a cheap day out. But considering it includes private transportation, ferry tickets, guide, and sometimes shared boat rides, it can be a good value for those seeking convenience and a curated experience. The reviews highlight that guides like Antonio and Trina bring a lot of knowledge and friendliness, which adds to the value.

Weather & Flexibility

The Blue Grotto’s dependency on weather can be a downside. If the sea is too rough, the Grotto might be closed, and your experience will shift to a boat tour around the island. While this still offers great views, some might prefer the direct visit to the cave. The tour offers a full refund if canceled due to weather, providing peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want to see both Capri and Positano without the hassle of organizing multiple transports. It suits those who are comfortable with a fairly full day, including plenty of walking, boat rides, and sightseeing. It’s great for first-timers who want a snapshot of the Amalfi Coast’s highlights with the guidance of locals.

If you’re arriving in Naples by cruise or are eager to maximize a single day, this tour offers a streamlined way to capture the essence of these two stunning locations. It also works well for those who value privacy and personalized service over large group tours.

However, if you prefer to explore at a more relaxed pace or dislike relying on weather conditions, you might need to consider other options or plan some flexibility into your schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking through towns and boarding boats, so it’s best for those with good mobility. If you have mobility concerns, you should specify this during booking.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers port pickup and drop-off, private guide, private tour, transportation to the Blue Grotto by boat or shuttle, ferry tickets, and transport from Positano back to Naples.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

How long is each stop?
You’ll have about an hour at Molo Beverello, an hour in Capri, an hour for the Blue Grotto or boat tour, an hour in Marina Grande, two hours in Positano, and an hour at Spiaggia Grande before returning.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

What happens if the Blue Grotto is closed?
You’ll be taken on a shared boat tour around the island instead, which still offers beautiful views and the chance to see the caves from outside.

How early does the tour start?
The start time is 7:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Is this tour good for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the itinerary’s pace and activities can suit families with older children comfortable with boat rides and walking. Check with the provider if you have younger kids or mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and some cash for extras. Also, bring a light jacket in case of wind on boat rides.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and comprehensive day trip from Naples, this private tour to Capri and Positano hits many of the right notes. It offers a good blend of guided insights, transportation convenience, and time to experience two of Italy’s most gorgeous spots. While the weather can influence your Blue Grotto experience, the alternative boat tour still promises beautiful views.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to tick off two must-see destinations efficiently and comfortably, especially if private guides and transportation appeal to you. It’s a bit of a whirlwind, but the stunning scenery, friendly guides, and seamless logistics seem to make it worthwhile for many.

If you’re okay with a full day on the move and want to avoid the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transportation, this tour could be just what you need to make the most of your time along Italy’s spectacular coast.

Note: Always check the weather forecast close to your departure date, as the Blue Grotto visit depends heavily on sea conditions. And remember, booking in advance is advisable since this popular tour is often booked about 40 days ahead.