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VISITING CAPRI
The myth of Sirens charming seafarers
There are two towns on Capri; Capri town itself,
which is in the centre of the island, and is where most of
the hotels are located, and Anacapri. Anacapri basks on the hill above Capri, and is a quieter, more
'normal' town. Accommodation is generally cheaper,
although you're still not far from the hub of things, and
there is a regular bus service. From Anacapri you can take
the chairlift up to the top of Monte Solare  and
enjoy the views before the trip back down (on foot if
you're so inclined). San Michele, the home of Swedish
doctor and writer Axel Munthe is
located in Anacapri, and is open to the public.
The principal Capri tourist attraction is the island
itself; its views, its rocky seashores and its scenic
charm. There is plenty of good walking - or strolling - to
be done as you explore the island. Top scenic panoramas
include views of the Bay of Naples, the Faraglioni Rocks and the Gardens of Augustus.
At the ruined Villa Jovis you can see the remains
of the Emperor Tiberius's palace, and also the cliffs over
which he is reputed to have had his enemies tossed. Back
in Capri town, the 14th-century Certosa di San Giacomo is a handsome old monastery-fortress, now hosting a school
and art exhibitions. For shopaholics, Capri town is a
dream, with all the big designer names and expensive
boutiques. Almost every Capri visitor makes the trip to
the Grotta Azzurra, the Blue Grotto. Like the
island itself, it tends to split its visitors in two -
those who find the blue-lit cave an unforgettable
experience, and those who find the jostling boats men and
extortionate prices a rip-off. A boat trip around the
island, though, is a more rewarding experience. You can
admire the coastline and the island's other grottoes in a
leisurely fashion.
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