Capri is one of Italy’s most famous islands, celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, elegant towns, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a place where every corner offers a picture-worthy scene, and the best way to appreciate its beauty is through a well-chosen tour or experience. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat cruise, a lively group adventure, or an immersive local activity like cooking, Capri offers something for every traveler. We love the full-day boat tours for their seamless blend of exploration and relaxation, plus the chance to snorkel in hidden caves. If you’re craving a private escape, the 3-hour private boat promises personalized sightseeing with fewer crowds.
What makes Capri special for these tours is its stunning coastline and iconic landmarks like the Faraglioni rocks, the Blue Grotto, and the Natural Arch. Most tours include these highlights, but each offers a unique lens—whether it’s a paddleboard adventure, a private boat, or a group cruise. Some experiences, like the caves and beaches paddleboard tour, add a splash of activity, letting you explore secluded spots inaccessible by larger boats. Others, such as the cooking class, bring you closer to the island’s culinary traditions. Whatever your style, these tours give you a chance to truly experience Capri beyond the postcard view.
1. From Sorrento: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Optional
Set sail from Sorrento and spend 4 to 7.5 hours exploring Capri by boat. This tour offers a fantastic mix of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkelling, with the optional visit to the Blue Grotto, which is often a highlight. The tour begins early to beat the crowds, starting from two convenient locations in Sorrento, then cruises around the island’s main attractions like the Green Grotto, Faraglioni, and Grotta Bianca. The itinerary includes multiple stops for swimming and photo opportunities, as well as leisure time to explore Capri’s town and shopping streets. The guides, often praised for their friendly and engaging manner, enhance the experience with local insights. Guests love the relaxed vibe and the chance to sit back on the boat while soaking in views only accessible from the water.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive boat experience with the flexibility of an optional visit to the Blue Grotto. It’s ideal if you’re starting from Sorrento and want to see the island from the water with plenty of swimming.
2. From Pompeii/Castellammare/Vico Equense: Capri Day Cruise
Departing from various locations like Pompeii, Castellammare, or Vico Equense, this 10-hour full-day cruise is a hassle-free way to see Capri’s key sights. The tour includes a scenic gulf of Naples cruise, with stops at the Faraglioni, Grotta Verde, and Casa Malaparte, plus free time on land in Capri and Anacapri. The boat cruise itself offers plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and relaxing, while the land visits allow you to explore the towns at your own pace. Guests rave about the smooth organization and the knowledgeable guide, Elena, who makes sure everyone gets the best experience. The itinerary’s flexibility means you can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and charming towns without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a longer trip. It combines scenic boat time with free land exploration—perfect for those wanting variety.
3. Boat Tour of the Caves on the Island of Capri
This 2-hour guided boat tour offers an up-close look at Capri’s most famous caves, including the White Grotto, Natural Arch, and the Faraglioni. You’re aboard a traditional Capri gozzo, a comfortable boat that allows you to see the island from the water without the crowds. The guide provides fascinating insights into the geology and legends behind each site. The tour also includes stops for swimming in the crystal waters, with an optional tasting of Limoncello. This experience shines because of its intimate pace and the opportunity to explore the caves and secret spots that larger tours often miss. Many reviewers mention how the guides make the trip memorable with stories and local tips.
Bottom Line: A short, engaging experience for those focused on cave exploration and swimming, with a relaxed, small-group vibe.
4. Half Day Private Boat Tour of Capri
For around $330, this private boat experience offers four hours of flexible exploration starting right from Capri’s main port. Your captain takes you around the island, stopping at major sights like the Blue Grotto (paid separately) and Faraglioni, with opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. This tour is all about customization—your skipper will set the pace, tailoring the route to your interests. The boat is well-equipped with towels, drinks, and snorkel gear, making it perfect for a laid-back, personal adventure. Guests appreciate the convenience of being picked up from the port and the intimate setting that makes the experience feel exclusive.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, flexible tour with time to relax and explore at their own pace.
5. Capri Island and Blue Grotto Small Group Day Tour from Capri Port
If efficient sightseeing is your goal, this 6-hour small group tour is a great pick. It uses a private minibus to skip the long lines and crowded buses, taking you from Marina Grande to explore Capri and Anacapri. You’ll visit the Blue Grotto (or opt for a boat tour if the grotto’s closed) and enjoy local tips from your guide. The small group size (under 60 reviews at 5.0 stars) makes for a more personal experience, with plenty of time for photos and wandering through town streets. Many travelers appreciate Elena’s helpful guidance and the seamless logistics, making the most of a short day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a comprehensive, guided overview of the island’s highlights.
6. Cooking Class and Wine Pairing in Capri
For a taste of local life, consider this 3-hour private cooking class. Held in a charming home, you learn to prepare four traditional Italian recipes: Caprese, homemade ravioli, eggplant parmesan, and lemon cake. The class includes a welcome aperitivo with local products and wine or non-alcoholic drinks. The host, Stefanie, is praised for her warmth and expertise, sharing family recipes passed down through generations. The experience offers a hands-on approach to Italy’s culinary traditions and leaves you with dishes you can recreate back home. Many reviewers mention how much fun they had learning and laughing with Stefanie, making this a memorable cultural highlight.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want an authentic, interactive experience and a delicious meal to take home.
7. Capri: Caves and Beaches Paddle Board Tour. Photos included
This 1.5-hour guided paddleboard tour lets you explore Capri’s coast from a new angle. You’ll learn the basics of paddleboarding, then glide past caves like the Little Blue Cave and Green Cave, and reach secluded beaches inaccessible by boat. The calm waters make it suitable for beginners, and the small group setting ensures personalized attention. Reviewers love the combination of adventure and scenery, with many praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. It’s a great choice if you’re after a active experience that combines exercise with sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore Capri’s coastline at their own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities.
8. From Sorrento: Full-Day Boat Tour to Capri with Drinks
This 8-hour cruise from Sorrento combines scenic sailing with free time on land for shopping and exploring. The boat, a traditional Gozzo, takes you around Capri’s highlights like the Blue Grotto (weather permitting), Faraglioni, and Grotta Bianca. The tour includes snacks and drinks, along with stops for swimming and snorkelling. Many reviews emphasize the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to see Capri from the water at a leisurely pace. The guides share stories about the island’s landmarks, making it both an enjoyable and educational experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a full day of scenery, swimming, and local flavor, with a relaxed, social vibe.
9. 3 Hours Private Capri Boat Tour
This private 3-hour boat tour offers a quick yet intimate way to see Capri from the water. You’ll pass the Grotta Verde, Faraglioni, and Natural Arch, with stops for swimming and photos. The guide, a multi-language sailor, shares stories about the island’s lore and legends. Guests rave about the personalized service and the opportunity to relax without the crowds. It’s an excellent choice for travelers short on time but wanting to hit the main sights with a knowledgeable skipper.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a private, flexible experience with plenty of opportunities to swim and photograph.
10. Full Day on a Private Boat to Discover Capri
This private 7-hour tour provides total freedom on the water, with stops for swimming, snorkelling, and sightseeing. The boat comfortably fits up to six people, and your skipper points out the Faraglioni, Blue Grotto, and other landmarks. Many reviewers mention how this experience feels like having your own yacht, with personalized attention and intimate access to Capri’s coast. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want to customize their day.
Bottom Line: The best way to explore Capri at your own pace, with the comfort and privacy of your own boat.
11. Half Day Around Capri by Itama 38 Speedboat
For a fast-paced, luxe experience, this 4-hour speedboat tour allows you to circumnavigate Capri on a sleek Itama 38. The boat’s speed means you see more in less time, including the White Grotto, Villa Malaparte, Faraglioni, and the Punta Carena Lighthouse. Many guests comment on the smooth ride and the knowledgeable captain, Antonio, who shares interesting facts along the way. It’s ideal if you’re after a quick, stylish overview of the island’s highlights with plenty of chances for swimming and photos.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a high-end, fast-moving tour with plenty of photo ops.
12. Complete Private Guided Two Hour Tour of the Coast of Capri
This two-hour private boat offers an efficient, personalized way to see Capri’s coast. Your skipper guides you past key sights like the Faraglioni, Grotta Verde, and Punta Carena Lighthouse, with ample time for photos and swimming. The small group and attentive guide ensure you get a tailored experience, ideal for visitors limited on time but wanting to see the essentials in comfort.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a quick, private overview of Capri’s most famous spots by water.
13. Esperienza Privata a Capri in Barca con Gozzo Classico 3H
This private 3-hour boat tour offers a relaxed, personalized way to explore Capri. Led by a professional skipper, you’ll visit major sights like Punta Carena, Faraglioni, and Cala di Matermania, with time for swimming and taking photos. Many reviewers highlight the friendly, attentive captain, Enzo, and the flexibility of the itinerary. It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a semi-private experience with all the classic sights.
Bottom Line: A great option for an intimate, customized half-day cruise on the island.
14. Capri: 2 Hours Private Boat from Capri
This short, 2-hour private tour is perfect if you want a quick, personalized look at Capri’s coast. From your boat, you can see the Blue Grotto, Champagne Cave, and Salto di Tiberio, with stops for swimming and photos. Many reviewers mention how easy it is to customize the route, and the guide’s local knowledge makes for a relaxing experience. It’s ideal if you’re pressed for time but still want to enjoy Capri from the water.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a brief, private, tailor-made boat experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Capri Tour
When selecting the best experience, think about your priorities: Are you after a full day of exploration or a short, private cruise? Budget plays a role too—group tours tend to be more affordable, while private options offer exclusivity. If you’re keen on culinary experiences, the cooking class might be perfect, whereas active travelers will love the paddleboard or speedboat tours. Consider your fitness level—swimming and snorkeling offer immersion, but some tours are better suited for those comfortable on water. Booking early is wise during peak season, especially for popular options like the Blue Grotto or private boats.
Final Thoughts
Capri offers a variety of tours, from scenic boat trips and private charters to hands-on cooking classes. For those who love the water, the full-day boat tours and private experiences stand out for their flexibility and stunning sights. If you prefer a more active or intimate approach, the paddleboard or private short tours fit the bill. For foodies, the cooking class provides a delicious, authentic taste of Capri.
Whatever your style, these experiences help make your trip memorable and authentic. Be sure to book in advance during the busy months, and remember—early morning trips often beat the crowds and give you the best photo opportunities. Capri’s waters and views are worth every effort, so pick your perfect tour and enjoy a fantastic day on this legendary island.