Capri Island and Blue Grotto Small Group Day Tour from Capri Port

A Practical and Authentic Way to Experience Capri

If you’re planning a trip to the stunning island of Capri, this small-group tour from Capri Port offers a well-rounded way to see its most iconic sights without the hassle of public transport or long lines. We’ve reviewed countless tours, and what makes this one stand out is its balance of comfort, local insight, and authentic experiences.

What we love about this tour is how it skips the crowded buses, letting you glide around in a cozy minibus, saving you hours of waiting. The visits to Capri’s famous Blue Grotto, the charming towns of Anacapri and Capri, and the panoramic chairlift ride up Monte Solaro are highlights that truly capture the island’s essence. Plus, the local guide makes all the difference with their knowledge and tips, turning a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

One potential consideration is the Blue Grotto’s unpredictability—it’s often closed due to sea conditions. If that happens, the tour cleverly replaces the grotto visit with a scenic boat ride around the island, ensuring you still get a taste of Capri’s beauty.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day—from first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Capri’s highlights to those seeking a comfortable, guided adventure. It’s especially ideal if you prefer small groups over large tour buses, and if you value local insights and flexible options.

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Key Points

Comfortable Transport: Skip public buses and explore Capri in a small, air-conditioned minibus that keeps you comfortable and on schedule.
Comprehensive Itinerary: From Blue Grotto to the main square, cover the island’s highlights with plenty of free time for sightseeing and shopping.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Roberta and Marcella offer insider tips and local stories that enrich your experience.
Flexible Experience: If the Blue Grotto is closed, the tour offers an equally stunning boat ride around the island.
Value for Money: With tickets, transport, and expert guides included, the $139.33 price tag offers good value, especially given the personalized approach.
Small Group Size: Max 23 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Capri Island and Blue Grotto Tour

Looking for more options in Capri? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point: Marina Grande

Your adventure kicks off at Marina Grande, the main port of Capri, where a friendly guide greets you and sets the tone for the day. The meeting point being near public transportation makes it straightforward to find, even after a cruise or ferry ride. From here, you’ll hop into a shared private minibus, which is a far cry from the typical crowded buses on the island. The emphasis on comfort and small-group intimacy means you’ll get more personalized attention and avoid the stress of large tour groups.

The Blue Grotto: A Short and Magical Stop

The highlight for many is the Blue Grotto. With tickets included in the tour, you’ll head to the caves via a quick minibus ride. The grotto is famous for its shimmering blue light, caused by sunlight reflecting inside. Travelers consistently mention the short wait times—some reviews note that the line can be long, feeling a bit like waiting in a theme park queue, but most agree the spectacle makes it worthwhile.

Roberta, the guide, is praised for her friendly and informative attitude, helping visitors navigate the wait. When you finally glide into the grotto on a small boat, you’ll understand why it’s a bucket-list moment. That emerald glow—like stepping into a jewel—is truly fleeting but unforgettable.

When the Grotto is Closed: An Alternative Boat Tour

If sea conditions aren’t cooperating, don’t worry. The tour seamlessly switches to a boat ride around the island, which allows you to see Capri’s stunning coastlines, hidden caves, and scenic spots. Multiple reviews mention how this alternative still delivers a beautiful perspective of the island, with some describing it as a “large boat ride around the island,” offering plenty of photo opportunities and breathtaking views.

Exploring Anacapri: Charm and Panoramas

Next up is Anacapri, a quieter town perched above Capri, characterized by narrow streets, historic squares, and the Villa San Michele. You’ll spend about three hours here, giving ample time to stroll, shop, or visit key sights. The guides often mention the superb local tips for restaurants and shops, making this a great chance to find unique souvenirs and authentic eateries.

A highlight is the Monte Solaro chairlift. While the ticket isn’t included, the panoramic vistas from the highest point of the island are a must-see, offering sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the coastline. Reviewers like Tammy highlight how peaceful and stunning the scenery is from the lift, making it worth an extra cost if you want to extend your experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Capri

Capri: The Piazzetta and Downtown Charm

The final stop is Capri’s main square, La Piazzetta. This bustling hub is packed with cafes, shops, and bars, perfect for soaking in the lively atmosphere. Many reviewers mention their love for sipping an espresso here, with Steven praising the guide Luigi for highlighting the island’s “jewels” and making the experience more meaningful.

You’ll have around an hour here, a good time to browse boutiques, people-watch, or grab an authentic gelato. The guide offers tips on the best spots to sit and enjoy the views, making your visit both relaxing and scenic.

Ending Back at Marina Grande

The tour wraps up back at the main port, leaving you with plenty of time to continue exploring or head back to your cruise. The entire experience lasts about six hours, balancing sightseeing, free time, and comfort.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s price of $139.33 per person is quite reasonable considering what’s included: tickets for the Blue Grotto, transport, a guided experience, and a boat ride. This package offers excellent value, particularly because it alleviates the stress of navigating Capri’s busy streets or waiting in lines.

The small group size (maximum 23 people) allows for a more relaxed, personalized experience. Many reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge—Giorgio, Marcella, and others frequently earn praise for their helpfulness and local insights.

Timing-wise, the tour is booked on average 57 days in advance, which is a good indicator of popularity. Since most travelers can participate, the tour is suitable for a variety of ages, but it’s not recommended for travelers with aids due to the walking involved and the physical nature of some stops.

Transportation & Accessibility

The transport involves a shared minibus, which is much more comfortable than the typical island buses. It’s near public transportation at the start point, making it easy for travelers arriving from different parts of Capri or the cruise terminal.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While the main tour price is reasonable, travelers should be prepared for optional extras like lunch, tips, and additional visits (such as Villa San Michele or the chairlift). Each of these has extra fees—costing around €2.50 to €14—so budgeting for these is wise if you want to explore further.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This small-group tour is excellent for visitors who want a comprehensive, no-hassle day on Capri. It’s perfect if you value guided insights, the comfort of transportation, and a flexible plan that adapts to weather conditions.

It’s especially suited for those who prefer small groups over large crowds, enjoy scenic boat rides, and love discovering local spots with an expert guide. If your priority is ticking off Capri’s main sights without the stress of planning, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed to be open?
No, the Blue Grotto is often closed due to sea conditions. If it’s closed, the tour switches to a scenic boat ride around the island, which many reviewers find equally beautiful.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately six hours, giving enough time to visit key spots, enjoy free time, and relax without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Tickets for the Blue Grotto, transport on the island, and an English-speaking guide are included. If the grotto is closed, the boat ride around the island is provided instead.

Can I visit Monte Solaro?
The tour includes a stop in Anacapri, where you can take the chairlift to Monte Solaro for panoramic views. The chairlift ticket costs extra (€14) and is not included in the main price.

Is this tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers but not recommended for those with aids due to the walking involved and some physical activities like the chairlift.

Are there options for food during the tour?
Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during free time at Capri or Anacapri.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 57 days ahead, which helps secure a spot and allows planning around your travel schedule.

To sum it up, this Capri Island and Blue Grotto Small Group Day Tour offers a fantastic way to see the island’s best sights comfortably and efficiently. From the sparkling waters of the Blue Grotto to the charming streets of Anacapri and the lively Piazzetta, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Capri’s magic—all with the convenience of guided expertise and small-group intimacy. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a stress-free, scenic, and authentic day on one of Italy’s most glamorous islands.