2 1/2 days in Capri
 

We will have about 2 ½ days in Capri in May, and I am trying to figure out how to spend them. There is more to see/do there than the time we have for, so I am looking for a balance. Here is what I’m thinking:

Day 1: we will arrive via boat from Positano, so after checking in we’ll probably just have lunch, stroll the town/Piazzetta then walk down the Via Krupp. Come back via bus, then dinner.

Day 2: early boat to the Blue Grotto, then taxi to Villa San Michele, then chairlift to Mount Solaro, and then walk back via the valley of Cetrella. How do we get back to Capri? Is Lido del Faro an option for dinner in May, or just lunch?

Day 3: Natural Arch hike and Faraglioni. Not sure if adding Villa Jovis is feasible. I think we’d rather do a sunset cruise instead. We’re leaving Capri the following morning.

How does this sound? Too much? Any other suggestions? Thanks

Well, it's just me but I found Villa Jovis much more memorable and interesting than the Blue Grotto, and you've already planned on a sunset cruise.

We really enjoyed the hike out to the Natural Arch and Faraglioni, but doing it at the same time as Villa Jovis might not be best. Each walk was somewhat strenuous, and Villa Jovis is uphill.

I can't help with your other questions because we took the bus Anacapri and back.

I think you will love it in May; that is when we spent a few nights on Capri and it was perfect.

You might want to consult your hotel staff before heading off for the boat to the Blue Grotto -- they might be able to advise you on the best time to go, based on their knowledge of the tides and weather and routes. I'm sure you know that it is not always accessible.

No need to take a taxi to the Villa San Michele unless you want to -- you can take public transportation to Anacapri, and then its just a short walk.

I went to the Belvedere Cannone for the views out over the Faraglioni late on my first afternoon -- lovely! And I was the only person there, quite unlike the crowds I encountered elsewhere. Might be worth considering on Day 1.

I personally thought the views FROM Capri and Anacapri more magnificent than the views OF Capri from the water, so I'm glad I didn't plan on a sunset cruise. Just my opinion.

When we walked down from Mount Solaro (a few years ago), we thought the path back to Anacapri was not well marked. Perhaps the route to Cetrella is less confusing. I would ask your hotel or the TI office if they have any tips (and know the time needed) for this walk.

Some good ideas, thanks a lot.
So combining Natural Arch and Faraglioni with Villa Jovis on the same day does not sound like a good idea. I think we will just skip Villa Jovis this time…after 8 days in Rome, Capri will be more about relaxation, great views, nature, etc.

Kja, of course we would consult the hotel about the Blue Grotto timing. But you are right, that might change everything I’m trying to do here :) Great tip about the Belvedere Cannone, will add that, sounds wonderful. I know opinions about the Blue Grotto are mixed, some love it, some consider it a tourist trap. I am still debating it, but I think we are tourists after all, we need to see with our own eyes (if time and water level permit).

Jean, thanks for letting me know about the trail’s markings (or lack of). Will definitely ask before starting it.
Will need to research some restaurants now ;)

When you go to the Blue Grotto, our hotel told us to take the island tour that includes Blue Grotto. You see more for the money. However, we got shut out on Blue Grotto because the waves were higher than what is acceptable for entrance. The island tour partially made up for it.

The system for accessing the Blue Grotto is decidedly tourist-y. The color inside the grotto itself is IMO spectacular. I don't mind engaging in activities that are almost entirely oriented toward tourists if they are fun and have a pay-off. As you say, we are tourists, too!

By all means, take a boat that circles the island so you are sure to see the Faraglioni up close.

Sounds great, we'll definitely take the around the island boat. And let's hope for calm, low seas.

I visited Capri a few years ago and stayed 2 nts in Anacapri. The things I enjoyed most:

2 hour boat tour around the island (wind in the hair and away from the hoards on Via Krupp)no Blue Grotto, seas too rough, Didn't mind missing it

ride up the Monte Solaro chairlift

hike up to Villa Jovis (again no crowds, nice walk thru the residential areas)

Chiesa San Michele - tile floor of the church - don't miss this, great short visit, beautiful

Did not care for Capri town at all. Would not return.

PS - liked the gardens of Villa San Michele a lot more than the villa itself, although the history was interesting.

Ask to your hotel if Via Krupp and Villa Jovis are open in May. In these Easter days were still closed.
Also Lido del Faro in May is closed for dinner, but is a great idea for lunch.
If the day is warm, I suggest you to get a private boat tour of the island so you can also swim in the blue sea of Capri and visit the Blue Grotto (it's a dream!!!).
From Cetrella you have to walk down to anacapri and get a bus to Capri