Tour of Capri and Anacapri with chairlift

If you’re considering a trip to the stunning island of Capri, chances are you’ll want to see as much as possible in one day. The Tour of Capri and Anacapri with chairlift offers a comprehensive way to experience the highlights without feeling rushed. From boat rides around the coast to scenic chairlifts up Mount Solaro, this trip packs a lot into roughly 8-9 hours.

What I love about this experience is the mix of different modes of transport—boats, mini-bus, chairlift—and the flexibility to explore both the famous center of Capri and the quieter charm of Anacapri. Plus, plenty of travelers have raved about the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views.

Of course, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t perfect for everyone. It involves a fair amount of moving around, and some may find the boat rides or busy spots like the Piazzetta crowded. But if you’re after a well-rounded, guided overview of the island, this tour could be just what you need.

This experience is most ideal for those who want a full, guided day on Capri—especially if you prefer to see the key sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s suitable for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and are okay with some optional extras like the boat ride or Blue Grotto entrance fee as add-ons.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines boat rides, island exploration, and a scenic chairlift.
• Guided tour: Knowledgeable guides help you navigate busy spots and share insights.
• Flexible stops: You get free time to explore Anacapri, Capri, and enjoy local specialties.
• Good value: At around $115, it covers transportation, guiding, and the chairlift.
• Peak booking time: Most travelers book about 2 months in advance, highlighting its popularity.
• Limited group size: Max 20 travelers, which keeps the experience more intimate.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Meeting Point & Start

The tour kicks off at Port of Capri Marina Grande, specifically at the Bar Gabbiano Internet Cafe on Pier 23 around 10:30 AM. This is a fairly central spot, so arriving on time is key. The guide will likely be waiting to greet you, ready to start your day with excitement.

The Boat Ride: A Breath of Fresh Sea Air

The first part of this tour is the boat ride around Capri, lasting about an hour. You’ll be on a typical Capri boat, which adds a local touch to the experience. This is probably the most memorable part for many travelers—cruising past the coastlines, caves, and hidden bays that make Capri so iconic.

Reviews highlight how much this boat trip adds to the tour’s value. One traveler mentioned, “We had a lovely boat trip around the entire island,” and noted that it was a highlight of their day. Expect to see the Blue Grotto from the water, although entrance to the grotto is optional and costs extra (€42).

Visiting Anacapri & Mount Solaro

After the boat, you’ll head with a mini bus to the highest part of the island, Anacapri. Here, you’ll get around two hours to explore. The village itself is charming, with narrow streets and quiet cafes. If you choose the chairlift to Mount Solaro, you’ll ascend to one of the best viewpoints on the island—an ideal spot for photos and panoramic views.

The guide’s ability to adapt to weather conditions is appreciated. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was organized and on time. He was knowledgeable and spoke English very well,” even waiting out rain for the chairlift segment.

The Heart of Capri: Piazzetta & Gardens

Next, you’ll move to Capri’s main square, the Piazzetta, often called the “living room of Capri.” It’s filled with boutiques, cafes, and lively chatter. From here, a walk to the Gardens of Augustus offers views of the Faraglioni Rocks—famous limestone stacks that dominate the seascape.

Many reviewers say the Gardens provide some of the most stunning vistas on the island. One noted, “The Gardens of Augustus offer the best view of the giant Faraglioni Rocks,” and that it left them breathless again.

Optional Extras & Additional Costs

While the core tour includes the boat ride, guided walks, and the chairlift, some extras like the Blue Grotto (€42) or the boat ride (€25) are paid separately. These are optional, so if you have a budget or specific interests, you can choose whether to include them.

Transport & Duration: What to Expect

The entire experience runs between 8 to 9 hours, starting early in the morning. Transportation includes the local mini bus and boat, making visits smooth and coordinated. The group size is capped at 20, which balances the intimacy of a small group with enough people to keep the tour lively.

The boat rides are roughly 1 hour each way between Naples and Capri, and the local transport within the island helps maximize your sightseeing time. The tour is designed to be efficient but still give you enough free time to soak in the atmosphere.

What Travelers Say About the Guides

Multiple reviews praise the guides for their friendliness, organization, and ability to keep things running smoothly despite weather challenges. One mentioned, “Dominic, our guide, was friendly, knowledgeable, and obviously well known to ferry/bus/boat/chairlift operators,” which means less waiting and smoother transitions.

The Value of This Tour

At $115.24 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering it bundles transportation, guiding, and the chairlift. The boat ride alone is a memorable highlight, and the guided aspect helps travelers avoid the common stress of navigating a busy island on their own.

Some reviews note the tour’s flexibility and the guide’s effort to adapt when the weather isn’t cooperating, which is reassuring.

However, keep in mind that the Blue Grotto and additional boat ride cost extra, and if you’re not a fan of crowds, some moments may feel a bit hectic, especially in high season.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day adventure is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Capri without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect if you like guided experiences, scenic boat rides, and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s also suitable for those interested in scenic views from the chairlift and exploring both the lively and quieter sides of the island.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates a good guide, appreciates scenic vistas, and enjoys a mix of activities—this tour ticks those boxes. But if you’re after a more relaxed or private experience, or wish to spend more time in specific spots, you might prefer a different, more customized option.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Capri and Anacapri tour delivers a well-rounded, engaging day packed with sights, sounds, and stunning views. Its guided format ensures you hit the key highlights efficiently, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer not to navigate complicated transportation arrangements alone.

The boat ride is a standout feature, offering a chance to see the island from the water and feel the breeze. The visit to Mount Solaro via chairlift provides some of the best vistas Capri has to offer, and the stroll through Capri’s vibrant Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus rounds out the experience.

One of the biggest strengths is the knowledgeable guides, who help make transitions smooth and enrich the experience with insights. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the flexible stops allow some personalization within the busy schedule.

On the downside, the tour’s busy pace might not suit those looking for a leisurely day, and some of the optional extras like the Blue Grotto cost extra. But overall, if you want a thorough, guided introduction to Capri’s must-see sights, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to spend your day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking through some narrow streets and using the chairlift, it’s generally manageable if you’re comfortable with stairs and some walking. It’s best to consult with the provider if mobility is a concern.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride around Capri lasts about an hour, making it a substantial part of the experience and offering great views of caves and coastline.

Are the entrance fees included?
The core tour includes visits to places like the Gardens of Augustus and Anacapri, which do not require entrance fees. However, optional extras like the Blue Grotto (€42) and additional boat rides (€25) are paid separately.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, which is helpful for quick transitions and attentiveness from guides.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 61 days in advance, especially during peak months, to secure a spot on this popular tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides offer tours in English, Spanish, and Italian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s plenty of opportunity to grab a bite during free time in Capri or Anacapri.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically geared toward children, most travelers find it suitable for all ages, especially if they enjoy scenic rides and walking.

In the end, this tour offers a practical, well-structured way to see Capri’s highlights, especially if you want a guided experience that covers boat rides, scenic views, and charming villages. It’s a solid choice for travelers ready to pack a lot into one day without the stress of planning every leg of the trip.