The hidden gems of Italy await you on this all-day island adventure! Not only will you experience the beauty of the island of Capri, but you will also visit the stunning Blue Grotto!
You will meet your guide outside your Naples cruise port and be taken to a hydrofoil boat that serves as your transport to Capri (namesake of the popular pants). Relax and enjoy the views on the approximately 45-minute ride over to Capri Island. The island has long been a favored resort for artists, writers, and other celebrities - who knows who you may see there. Capri Island is made up of 2 towns - Capri and the smaller Anacapri. Upon arrival at the dock on the shore of Capri Island, you will board a minibus up to the town of Anacapri which means "above Capri" and it is! From an elevation of approximately 900 ft (275 m), there are stunning views of the turquoise waters. Your guide will take you on a stroll on the main road of this picturesque village.
You will have free time, and if you wish you can also take the chairlift to the top of Mt. Solaro, the highest point on the island with spectacular views of Marina Grande and the Gulf of Naples (the cost of the chairlift is not included). There you will see the Fortino di Bruto, a blockhouse used in the early 19th century during the battles between Britain and France. Another option you may wish to explore is a visit to Villa San Michele, whose gardens have stunning panoramic views of the town of Capri, the harbor, and Mount Vesuvius. Situated on a ledge at the top of the Phoenician Steps, these gardens are home to many relics and works of art dating back to ancient Egypt! Note that the chairlift cost is not included nor is entrance costs into other sites.
Following a delicious light Italian lunch in Anacapri that is included (seasonal appetizer and a main dish that varies daily), you will travel down to the town of Capri located about 10 minutes from Anacapri for a walk around the beautiful main square, the Piazzetta ("the little theater of the world"). The ride down is a series of hairpin turns and offers amazing views of the water and coastline. The square is a popular gathering place for the commoners as well as billionaires and actors who vacation there. As you stroll along the streets of Capri, you will come upon many shops famous for Italian fashion and locally handcrafted items. Nearby you will see the gardens of Augustus with views of Faraglioni and Via Krupp. The grounds are truly magnificent!
Cap off your Capri Island adventure with a visit to the Blue Grotto. This sea cave on the coast of Capri will take your breath away! There is only one way to enter; you lie flat on the bottom of a small rowboat while an oarsman uses a metal chain attached to the cave walls to guide you in through the low opening. Shining through the seawater, sunlight that passes through an underwater cavity creates a brilliant blue reflection with shimmering silver tones that illuminates the cavern. This is an experience you will not soon forget!
After your adventure has concluded, you will board the hydrofoil and return across to your Naples cruise port with memories to last a lifetime.
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