Both majestic cities on the Amalfi Coast, one can never go wrong with either destination. The two cities have many overlapping allures so you don’t miss out on the best of the famous coast. Still, it can be tough to decide between both as each has its strong suits.
Capri
Capri, a small island in southern Italy, is one of the country’s most mesmerizing jewels. Famous for many reasons, Capri’s unmatched beauty alone makes it a worthy part of your Italian escapade. Top that with delicious food, an eclectic shopping experience, and more, Capri doesn’t disappoint its guests.
What Makes Capri Unique?
Magnificent Natural and Historical Sites
Capri owes its worldwide renown to its jaw-dropping Mediterranean beauty. The island towers on the Tyrrhenian sea, with its limestone cliffs overlooking the glistening blue sea. And with plenty of idyllic covers, towering vistas, and well-manicured green spaces, it’s a breathtaking island.
More stunning sights await beyond Capri’s natural wonders. Its little towns and villages carry a small-town feel. Some of which fringed with colorful lemon trees among the pearly white villas. There’s also a fishing port that’s full of bistros laced in bougainvillea.
No matter where you look, Capri has a wow factor to it. And the island rewards those adventurous enough to discover its hidden wonders.
The most famous site in Capri is the bewitching Blue Grotto. It’s a huge flooded cave that’s connected to the ocean. Enter it, and you’ll discover the majestic charm that made it Capri’s best-loved site.
When sunlight enters the cave, it bounces off the cave walls and the blue waters in it. This gives the water a fluorescent-like, electric blue color that’s breathtaking, to say the least.
Among the famous sites on Capri is the Faraglioni. These are three massive, 328-foot-tall rocks (100 meters) off the coast. Surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, a boat tour is the best way to marvel at the Faraglioni.
Another unmissable eye candy in Capri is the flower-filled Gardens of Augustus. Though small, this garden offers an extensive variety of Mediterranean flora. It’s also the best spot on the island to marvel at the dramatic Tyrhennian seascape, with views of the Faraglioni and the Bay of Marina Piccola from afar.
A more unusual sight is the hairpin-like, zigzag paths of the Via Krupp. Carved out of a cliff, this windy and breathtaking spot bridges the Marina Piccola and the Grand Hotel Quisisana. This path overlooks the turquoise waters of the sea, with an elevation of 328 feet (100 meters) packed in a tiny space.
With so much beauty on a small island, you’d want to get a panoramic view of Capri. There’s no better place for this than the towering Monte Solaro. This is the highest point in Capri, rising 1932 feet (589 meters) above sea level.
Tons of Fun-Filled Adventure
If you love being on the water or hiking scenic spots, Capri is the perfect destination for you. Go swimming in crystal clear waters, sunbathe on a yacht’s deck, or say hi to the marine life underwater by snorkeling. Or if you want to strap on your hiking gear, Capri has tons of lush paths and incredible vistas to discover.
Some of the best views of Capri are from the water. It’s the only way to explore Capri’s most magnificent sights.
Pass through the famous natural arches of the towering Faraglioni rocks. Be in awe of the luminescent turquoise waters of the Grotta Azzurra. Or enjoy a refreshing dip in the uncrowded yet splendid Grotta Bianca or Grotta Verde!
You can either be a part of an organized tour or enjoy full freedom by renting a boat and driving it yourself.
Still, with Capri’s inviting waters, dipping into its deep blue waters is as tempting as it can be.
One of the best beaches on the island is the Marina Piccola. This idyllic beach sits right at the foot of the Via Krupp path. With an uninterrupted view of the Faraglioni, the Siren’s Rock, and the Via Krupp in the background, you can never go wrong with this beach.
If hiking’s more up your alley, Capri is well-endowed with amazing and lush natural spots. These hiking trails are the best way to admire the island’s beauty from a different perspective.
There’s the 45- to 60-minute hike to Villa Jovis. This path takes you to the palace ruins of Emperor Tiberius and Emperor Caligula.
You can also hike to the natural Arch, a photogenic structure built by natural erosion. It used to be the roof of a grotto, but when it collapsed, this arch was all that was left. This is an easy hiking path that rewards you with a breathtaking seaside view.
Amazing Food Scene
Capri is one of Amalfi Coast’s firmly established culinary powerhouses. Blessed with unique microclimates and surrounded by rich waters, sourcing local goods is a breeze on the island.
Its exciting food scene is most popular for the upscale joints that attract crowds of well-off tourists. But there are also tons of quaint local restaurants for some affordable yet scrumptious eats.
Willing to splurge on some good food? Head over to Restaurant Il Riccio, a Michelin-starred restaurant. This seafood bistro gazes over the Blue Grotto, with tuna tartar and sea scallops being the star of the menu.
You can also hit up the many pizzerias in the city for a filling meal.
Ristorante Da Gemma is a seaside restaurant by Marina Grande, with pizza that melts in your mouth. There’s also the Materita Pizzeria up the hills for some crispy Romana pies with Campanian buffalo mozzarella.
Don’t miss out on Capri’s delicious traditional dishes too! It’s the best way to truly get a taste of this charming island.
Among those is Caprese Salad. A dish with milky mozzarella, hand-picked basil, fresh tomatoes, and distinctly-flavored olive oil. Head over to Da Paolino for this, where you can eat under the shade of citrus groves.
Grab a plate of peace all’acqua pazza, which is fish that’s cooked with diced fresh tomatoes. There’s ravioli capresi, which is pasta filled with cheese and marjoram. Grab a bite of veal fillets, salt-crust fish, torta caprese, and much more!
Charming Shopping Scene
Milan may get all the attention but Capri is a shopaholic’s dream. With an array of haute couture goods to unique souvenir delights, Capri excites even the most devout shoppers. But at the heart of the city’s retail therapy scene are the local boutiques that sell handmade products.
Begin your shopping street at the bustling street of Via Camerelle. This is Capri’s main shopping street at the heart of the town. A fashionista’s paradise, this street is jam-packed with luxury fashion brands.
Name a fashion brand, and Via Camerelle probably has it. Spoil yourself rotten with brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, and more. You’ll see tons of locals and tourists alike swinging bags with these big-hitter names.
Away from this luxurious street, you’ll find more casual shopping options. So if high-end shopping isn’t in the cards for you, Capri doesn’t leave you hanging.
At Marina Piccolo are tons of grocery stores selling food items. Take home some dried mountain herbs, olive oils, and more. You’ll also find some small seafood stalls showcasing the catch of the day.
And all around the island more food shops, craft shops, and local boutiques that exude a small-town charm.
Some highlights of Capri’s shopping scene are its handmade sandals and locally made perfumes. Anywhere on the island, you can find a shop where you can get custom-made sandals. If you want a scent to remember the island by, Carthusia Perfumery is one of Capri’s best gems.
Exciting Nightlife
Capri is a night lover’s dream, as the island doesn’t seem to sleep. With locals perfectly fine with eating dinner after 10 PM, the nightlife only gets busy after midnight. So take a nap during the day so you can party until dawn with the locals!
Capri’s night scene is quite varied, with tons of spots to choose from to fit your preferences best. Most of these spots are mainly centered around Piazzetta and Quisisana. But away from these areas hides other hidden gems to discover.
Before the sun sets, you’ll want to make your way to Maliblù early. This is the perfect spot in Capri to admire the breathtaking sunset while sipping on some cold, tasty cocktails. All those while you listen to upbeat music by local DJs.
Maliblù is also a scenic spot to host your sunset drinking. It sits on a gentle slope from the Punta Carena Lighthouse, slowly cascading down the blue sea.
Start your evening in La Capannina Wine Bar, an elegant spot for some aperitif. This bar sits right within the heart of Capri, and it boasts a rich historic charm with modern touches.
Its interior mimics a classic Capri villa, with white walls, curtains, and ceilings. You’ll find remnants of its history in the old photos of Capri hung everywhere. The soft lighting, cozy sofas, and little balconies bring this all together to create a relaxed vibe.
Make your nightlife more exciting and switch places to the Taverna Anema e Core. This historic nightclub dates back to 1994, and it’s since been an elite hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.
You’ll find big international names gracing this club from time to time. You may bump into sports stars, celebrities, and even famous businesspeople chilling in this club!
What draws night owls to this club is its nightly musical performances. You’ll get serenaded with Neopolitan music throughout the night in an intimate club.
Positano
Positano is a majestic, pastel-filled coastal town, flanked by two natural wonders on both sides. On one side are the imposing and lush limestone cliffs, and on the other is the glistening blue water of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The town is one of the most iconic sights in Italy. But there’s more to Positano than its unmissable beauty.
What Makes Positano Unique?
Breathtaking Sights
Positano is a picture-worthy city at every turn. From its pastel-hued villages to its charming cobblestone streets to its luscious lemon gardens. All this with the towering limestone cliffs in the backdrop makes Positano the most iconic town on the Amalfi Coast.
There’s no better vantage point to soak in the town’s beauty than to see it from the water. But while this view is what Positano’s known for, it also has some gorgeous views inland.
For unbeatable views of Positano, make your way to the Path of the Gods. This path sits on the cliffside, giving you a sweeping view of the deep blue waters and the craggy coastline of the town.
From the start of the trail until the end, the Path of the Gods will leave you awestruck. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of charming historic towns, centuries-old mule routes, and more, among the lush greenery.
The Path of the Gods was once a trail for the locals to walk from one town to another. Now, it serves as the city’s best hiking spot, embraced both by locals and tourists alike.
Positano is abundant in natural attractions. But little do many know that it also has stunning historical sites to discover.
Among all the buildings in town, none can top the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. This church perches gracefully on a cliff, with the glistening waters of the Tyrrhenian sea in the backdrop.
The church is the finest example of Medieval architecture in Positano. But behind its charming yellow and green facade is another unmissable attraction. By the altar of the church sits the Byzantine-era painting of the Black Madonna, which holds a ton of the town’s history.
Endless Beach Fun
Marveling at Positano’s glistening waters from a cliff is not the best way to admire its beaches. They’re not only for pretty pictures, as Positano has tons of water fun opportunities to offer.
Spiagga Grande is Positano’s main and most popular beach. It’s popular among tourists for taking panoramic pictures of the town right from the water. But among the locals, this is the best spot to go sunbathing as the beach has tons of sunbeds for use.
Being the best-known beach in town, Spiaggia Grande usually gets busy. Thankfully, Positano has tons of other pebbly shores for you to unwind in. There’s the accessible Laurito Beach, the small yet stunning Fornillo Beach, and more.
If you’re a big beach lover or sunbather, you might as well head to any of the many beach clubs around town.
For a more exclusive experience, choose the Treville Beach Club which is part of a private beach. Also reachable only via shuttle boat is the Arienzo Beach Club. This club, unlike most beach clubs, allows you to book online and offers tons of packages to choose from.
With tons of spots in the city, you cannot visit Positano without spending some time on the sea. Whether you want to glide through the glistening waters or try your luck with water sports, Positano has the beach for you.
Among all these activities, boat tours are one that you shouldn’t miss. While the city is beautiful from any angle, the best one is from the sea.
The town has a wide array of boat tour companies, so take your pick! You can get a private boat or a shared one. There are also luxury speed boats if you want to splurge a bit more, or there are more humble water vehicles if you don’t want to break the bank.
Sunbathe on the deck of the yacht, discover hidden coves, explore sea caves, and much more!
There’s no shortage of water activities in Positano. For the more active crowd, you can try stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking around the Tyrrhenian sea. But because Positano has incredibly clear waters, snorkeling is also a must-do!
Delectable Cuisine
It’s no secret that Italian cuisine is one of the tastiest in the world as almost everyone likes it. And while you may have an idea of what Italian food is like, you’ll find something pleasantly different in Positano.
The locals have had years and years of perfecting their cuisine. Thus the town’s culinary scene has figured out the key to mouthwatering concoctions. So if the views of Positano won’t swoon you over, it’ll win your heart through your stomach.
In Positano, seafood is king. You’ll often find locals at makeshift stalls selling the catch of the day. Shrimp, mollusks, crabs, and more, then get infused with Mediterranean flavors for a burst of savory goodness in your mouth.
Positano isn’t all about seafood though. It also leaves tons of options for meat lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and everyone else in between!
A must-try local dish for pasta lovers is scialatielli ai frutti di mare. This is a velvety pasta dish that’s mixed with an array of seafood. This includes shrimp, with a side of mussels.
A taste of Italy’s ancient roots is the colatura di alici. This is an anchovy dish, a modernized take on an ancient Roman dish known as garum.
Being a town known for its lemons, a trip to Positano isn’t complete without tasting some lemon-infused eats.
An unforgettable option is spaghetti al limone with ricotta. This is a hearty pasta dish mixed with ricotta cheese, lemon, and other aromatic herbs. Have this with a side of the town’s most famous drink, Limoncello. Then end your drink with the quintessential Positano dessert, Delizia al Limone or Lemon Delight.
Now that you know what to get, the next step is to figure out where to go.
La Tagliata is arguably the best restaurant in town as it offers a unique dining experience. Your gastronomic adventure starts with a shuttle, which takes you to the top of the hill where the restaurant sits on.
This restaurant is the epitome of an authentic Italian kitchen experience. You’ll walk into a traditional-looking dining room without any menu handed out to you. The “mamma” of the kitchen cooks you a four-course meal of whatever they want, along with serving you some homemade wine.
Beachside Nightlife
Positano may not be world-known for being a nightlife destination. But its nightlife is no less exciting, as the locals are always up for late-night drinks.
Italians love to drink, as it’s a big part of their culture and it’s their way of socializing. So there’s no better way to end your day than to mingle with locals in Positano’s many nightlife spots. From lavish hotels to unusual nightclubs, there’s a spot for every preference and budget here.
Start your evening like a local and enjoy some pre-dinner drinks known as aperitivo. Locals usually start at around sunset, the perfect time to sip on some cocktails with the best views!
The best spot in town for some sunset aperitivo is Aldo’s Cocktail Bar and Seafood grill. It has a sweeping view of the city, where you can watch the sky turn into all shades of orange. You’ll be drinking on a beautiful terrace that’s lavish and decorated with colorful flowers and lemon trees.
Nearby is Franco’s bar, a rustic bar with old-fashioned yet quality drinks. Like the previous bar, this spot also has a stunning view of Positano.
For a more casual vibe, head over to Sky Bar or the Le Petit Murat. If you want a local-approved spot, Li Galli Bistro is the first choice for an aperitivo.
In the dark of the night, join the locals as they dance the night away in any of the city’s vibrant clubs.
Music on the Rocks is one of the hottest clubs in Positano. This two-level club sits inside a cave and overlooks the glorious Spiaggia Grande. Lively as it can be, this club fills its cave walls with upbeat electronic music and neon lights of all colors.
The best part about this club is that the fun doesn’t stop until 4 AM. So if you’re a big night owl, this is the best spot for you.
If you want some beachside partying, head over to the historic La Buca di Bacco. This was a former tavern, catering to a VIP guest list who want a taste of the dolce vita lifestyle. Today, it remains one of Positano’s busiest and best-loved nightspots. Hear the sound of crashing waves and feel the breeze in your hair as you sip on some wine. The bar’s stylish decor and sparkling lights only add to its laid-back feel.
Thrilling Excursions
What makes Positano such an exciting wonderland is that while there are tons to see in town, there are even more things to do. Though small, the town offers a ton of opportunities for you to get on your feet and explore the city. Wander through Positano’s cobbled streets and off-the-beaten-path wonders to reveal more of the city’s undeniable charm.
Because of Positano’s interesting landscape, the town is a hiker’s paradise. This hilly town has inclines and stairs just about anywhere. So Even if you’re within the city, Positano will give you a good workout.
But of course, hiking is always best when you’re surrounded by lush greenery. There are tons of hiking paths available outside the city center. But one that you shouldn’t miss is the Path of the Gods. The Path of the Gods is a cliffside path that gives you a breathtaking view of Positano’s colorful houses from above and the deep blue sea.
Positano is also a paradise for passionate fashionistas. The town has a thriving boutique shopping scene. And these local shops are the heart of the retail therapy scene in Positano.
Everywhere in the town, you’ll find an eclectic mix of offers to spoil yourself with. This includes colorful linen clothes, trendy bikinis, and sunhats. Positano also offers tons of high-quality leather goods, such as shoes, bags, and belts.
Are great pictures your priority? Then go on an Instawalk tour, where someone takes pictures of you in the town’s most picturesque spots.
If you want to appreciate Positano’s lemon heritage more, go to a lemon farm and tour the site. Not only will you wander through lush lemon gardens and see the process, but you’ll also get an exciting lemon tasting at the end!
Capri or Positano – Which Is Better?
There’s little difference between the two destinations, so you can’t go wrong with either. Capri and Positano have almost the same allures that bring tourists to their shores. But it’s Capri that brings these draws to a higher level.
Positano is a cliffside town, while Capri is on a separate island. Because of this, Capri has a more distinct charm with tons more to see and do.
FAQ
How Far Is Capri From Positano?
The straight line distance from Capri to Positano is around 15 miles (24 kilometers).
Best Ferry From Positano to Capri
The best ferry from Positano to Capri is NLG, as it’s the fastest ferry to choose. With NLG, you can reach Capri from Positano within only around 30 minutes.
Of course, the best ferry still depends on your preferences. You have other ferry companies to choose from on your journey.
The popular ones are Alicost, NLG, and Positano Jet. Both Alicost and NLG run between the two towns thrice a day. While the Positano Jet has up to 20 journeys per week.
Hydrofoil From Capri to Positano
Between Capri and Positano are frequent services by hydrofoils. These services are fast, getting you to Positano from Capri in around half an hour.
Private Boat From Positano to Capri
Tons of boat companies on the Amalfi Coast offer private boat tours from Positano to Capri. You can choose between speedboats, yachts, and wooden gozzo boats in different sizes.
These private tours often pick you up from Positano’s main pier. But you can also make arrangements and have them pick you up in other locations nearby. This includes the hotel you’re staying at, villa jetties, or other piers in town.
These private boat tours often last the whole day. But you can get a 4-hour tour option too. Though this may not be worth it as this doesn’t include any free time you have to explore Capri on land.
Positano to Capri Boat Tour
Taking a boat tour from Positano to Capri doesn’t have to break the bank. While you can go for a private boat tour, you also have the option to go on a small group boat tour to Capri. This is the most popular yet the least expensive boat tour between the two towns.
The tour starts from Spiaggia Grande in Positano. Boats usually fit up to 20 passengers. And on your way to Capri, you’ll pass through the Li Galli Islets, and Faraglioni rock formations, and then head to Marina Grande in Capri.
Once you’ve docked, you have a few hours to explore Capri and sightsee to your heart’s content. In the late afternoon, you should come back to the dock so you can head home to Positano.
Water Taxi From Capri to Positano
If you just want to get to Positano from Capri without interruptions, water taxis are the best option for you. There are several water taxi companies in town from which you can book services online.
Once done, your driver will pick you up at your accommodation and escort you to the port. You’ll head out from Capri on a fast private boat, reaching Positano within around 20 minutes only.
Prices and schedules vary from one company to another though. So it’s best to check online for more accurate prices.
Positano to Capri Blue Grotto
It’s possible to see the majestic Blue Grotto even if you’re staying in Positano. From Positano, just take the ferry to Capri. A ferry on this trip only costs 23 USD and takes 30 to 40 minutes of travel time.
Once you’re in the Capri Marina, look for transfer services heading to the Blue Grotto. A local bus on standby will take you from Capri to Anacapri for a boat ride to the Blue Grotto.
Capri or Positano for One Day?
A day trip to both cities, if you can, is the best idea. But if you’re short on time, it’s time to look into what your priorities are.
If you’re a big shopaholic, then go to Capri instead for its countless designer outlets. It’s also a better place for a calm day, where you can visit tons of natural wonders and people-watch to your heart’s content.
Capri also has more attractions to visit than Positano. So you’re likely to have a busier itinerary when visiting Capri than Positano. This means that you’ll never get bored on your short visit!
If you want Amalfi Coast’s most iconic sights though, make your way to Positano instead. It’s the better town to be if you want to take tons of touristy pics as Positano is photogenic all over.
Half-Day Capri Boat Tour From Positano
There are half-day boat tours for Capri from Positano, but it’s not recommended. This tour only lasts for four hours. And the travel time alone eats a chunk of this as the duration is around 30 minutes to 40 minutes.
You’ll go to Capri’s many attractions on the sea, such as several noteworthy grottos. But this half-day tour leaves little to no time left for you to explore Capri on last. Thus, it’s always better to go on a boat tour for the whole day.
