From Sorrento: Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Sorrento and dreaming of exploring the iconic island of Capri, this tour might be just what you need. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it hits the right notes for your vacation plans.

What we really like about this trip is how it packs so many of Capri’s highlights into one day — from the famous Blue Grotto to shopping in Anacapri, all led by knowledgeable guides who keep things moving smoothly. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy some impressive views along the way, which makes the price feel reasonable considering the full day of activities.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour relies heavily on weather conditions, especially for the Blue Grotto. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you’ll spend more time on the boat ride around the island, which is still a lovely experience but might be a slight disappointment if you were especially excited about the cave. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized day on Capri without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of sightseeing, gentle adventure, and local flavor, this tour suits many types of travelers. Whether you’re visiting Sorrento for the first time or you’ve been before and want a handy overview, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Includes Blue Grotto tickets and ferry transfers, making logistics easier.
• Small group sizes (up to 20 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Flexible options if the Blue Grotto is closed, with a boat tour around the island.
• Leisure time in Anacapri and Capri for shopping, eating, and exploring.
• Optional chairlift ride to Monte Solaro is worth considering for the views.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and organization.
• Good value considering the full day of diverse sights and activities.

This tour is designed to give you a full day of Capri’s most captivating sights, with a well-planned itinerary that balances guided excursions with free time. It starts early and packs in a lot, so arriving prepared is key. The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins at Marina Piccola, Sorrento’s main port. Here, you meet your guide — fluent in English — and board a ferry to Capri. The ferry ride itself is a highlight, offering beautiful coastline views to get you excited for what’s ahead. The ferry is included in the price, and it’s a quick 30-minute trip.

Once on the island, transportation around Capri is arranged via shuttle buses, which keeps logistics straightforward and allows you to focus on enjoying the sights.

The Ride Along Mamma Mia Road

One of the first memorable moments is the exhilarating drive along the Mamma Mia road, a winding route with incredible lookouts. The guides typically point out landmarks and share stories that add context to the scenery. This is a highlight for many who love seeing the rugged cliffs and sparkling waters firsthand.

Visiting the Blue Grotto

If weather permits, you’ll have the chance to visit the famous Blue Grotto. Access involves a small rowboat, which adds to the charm of the experience. The glowing blue water inside the cave is unforgettable when the conditions are right.

However, it’s worth noting that if the weather isn’t suitable, the Blue Grotto visit will be replaced with a shared boat ride around the island. While this alternative offers stunning coastal views and landmarks, some may find it less special than actually entering the cave.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer shared, “Although we were disappointed that the Blue Grotto was closed the day of our tour, the boat tour around the island more than made up for it. Our guide Marcella was fabulous.” That highlights how the tour manages weather cancellations gracefully, ensuring you still get a memorable experience.

Exploring Anacapri

Next, you’ll head to Anacapri, a charming town perched at the highest point of the island. It offers a quiet contrast to the lively Capri town, with plenty of shops, cafes, and gelato spots to enjoy. The leisurely pace here is a welcomed break, and many appreciate the time to soak in local life.

Monte Solaro Chairlift (Optional)

For panoramic views, you can opt for the chairlift ride to Monte Solaro (additional 14 euros). From the top, you’ll see the Bay of Naples and surrounding islands — a view that’s well worth the small extra cost if you’re up for it. The chairlift is easy to navigate, even with children or limited mobility, but mind the open arms of the seats.

Capri Town and Augustus Gardens

Back in Capri town, the Piazzetta — often called the “living room of Capri” — buzzes with cafes, boutique shops, and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for a coffee or a light lunch, especially if you enjoy people-watching.

Not far from here, the Augustus Gardens offer a peaceful spot to admire lush greenery, colorful flowers, and sweeping sea views. Entry is inexpensive (around 2.50 euros), and many reviews mention how relaxing and beautiful these gardens are.

Via Camerelle & Marina Grande

The tour also includes a walk down Via Camerelle, Capri’s most luxurious shopping street. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, it’s fun to peek into the high-end boutiques and imagine a little bit of the island’s glamour.

Finally, you’ll spend some time at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port, where you can enjoy some free time at the beach or just soak in the lively harbor atmosphere.

Returning to Sorrento

After a full day, you’ll board the ferry back to Sorrento. The return trip gives you one last chance to relax and reflect on the stunning scenery and memorable moments, ending the day where it all began.

Considering the price (around $192 per person), this tour offers a good balance of guided sightseeing, transportation, and free time, making it a convenient option for travelers who want a comprehensive day without stress. The inclusion of Blue Grotto tickets and ferry rides adds value, especially since organizing those independently can be a bit of a hassle.

The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which makes a big difference when navigating a busy island. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and most reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs despite the packed schedule.

The optional extras, like the chairlift to Monte Solaro and Augustus Gardens, are easy to add on if you want to elevate your experience. Be aware, though, that the Blue Grotto’s opening depends on weather, so flexibility is key. If it’s closed, the boat tour around Capri still offers plenty of stunning views.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see the main sights of Capri without the hassle of planning. It’s especially good for first-timers who want a guided overview of the island’s highlights. If you’re comfortable with moderate walking and sitting for stretches, this tour will suit you well.

Travelers with limited mobility might find some parts challenging, particularly the boat rides and chairlift, so keep that in mind. Families with kids who enjoy boat rides and sightseeing will probably have a good time, though younger children should be prepared for a full day out.

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed to be visited?
No, the Blue Grotto depends on weather conditions. If it’s closed, the tour offers an alternative boat ride around the island.

How long is the ferry ride from Sorrento to Capri?
The ferry takes about 30 minutes each way, giving you scenic views of the coastline.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the Blue Grotto entrance (if accessible), ferry rides, shuttle bus for island transportation, and an English-speaking guide.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch in Anacapri or Capri.

Can I do the chairlift to Monte Solaro?
Yes, but it costs around 14 euros per person and is optional. It’s a quick ride with fantastic views.

Is it suitable for travelers with reduced mobility?
Not really. The tour is not recommended for those with reduced mobility due to walking and boat ride requirements.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

All in all, this small group tour of Capri from Sorrento offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see many of the island’s top sights. The combination of guided tours, optional extras, and free time makes it flexible enough to cater to different interests.

It’s a solid choice if you’re after that classic Capri experience — stunning views, charming towns, and a taste of Italy’s glamour — without the stress of organizing everything yourself. Just remember, the weather can influence specific experiences like the Blue Grotto, so stay flexible and keep an open mind.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day trip that balances sightseeing with some leisure, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially great if you want to maximize your time on the island and come away with plenty of photos and good memories.