rome to capri travel time

From Rome to Capri: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Only 130 miles from Rome as the crow flies, the idyllic Isle of Capri is close enough for a day trip or a relaxing two- or three-day getaway from the city's busy tourist scene. Because it's an island, the only way to reach Capri is by sea or by helicopter; there is no airport. Ferries connect to the island year-round from both Naples and Sorrento.

If you are not interested in doing it yourself, one of the easiest ways of getting from Rome to Capri is on a Capri Day Trip from Rome. These organized tours will take the complexity out of the whole experience. Below are details on a variety of ways of getting from Rome to Capri.

1. From Rome to Capri by Train and Boat

2. from rome to capri on a tour, 3. from rome to capri by car and boat, 4. from rome to capri by limo & water taxi, 5. from rome to capri by helicopter.

The most popular way to reach Capri from Rome is by train to Naples and then a ferry to the island. Trains for Naples leave from Roma Termini central train station . The fastest is Eurostar Frecciarossa (TAV), just over an hour between Rome and Naples. It is also the most expensive.

For about half the price, you can take the Intercity, which takes about two hours. Most economical is the Interegionali, about half the cost of the Intercity and taking twice as long - nearly four hours. This budget option won't work for a day trip, but is a practical alternative if you plan to spend a night in Naples or on Capri.

If you plan to go directly to Capri on arrival at Rome's Fiumicino Airport , take the Leonardo Express shuttle train to the Roma Termini station and transfer to a train for Naples. Plan a minimum of three hours from arrival time in Rome to Capri if you arrive early in the day and make all the connections. If your flight arrives in the late afternoon, plan to stay over in Rome or Naples.

Ferries leave from two different piers in Naples. High-speed ferries, which take about 40 minutes to get to Capri, depart from Molo Beverello in Piazza Municipio; regular ferries and slow ferries (50 minutes and 80 minutes respectively) leave from Calata di Massa, farther east along the waterfront. As you might expect, high-speed ferries are the most expensive, slow ferries the least. Between the various types of boat, ferry schedules offer frequent and continuous service throughout the day.

To get to the Molo Beverello from Naples Train Station (Napoli Centrale), you can either take a taxi (easier if you have a close connection or a lot of luggage) or Linea 1 of the subway in the "Piscinola" direction. Get off at Piazza Municipio and walk about 100 meters to the ferry.

You can reach both ports by Alibus, which stops in Piazza Garibaldi outside the station (buy tickets on the bus). Ask the driver to stop on Via Marina for Calata Porta di Massa; if you miss the stop, ride on to Piazza Municipio, the stop for Molo Beverello, and take the free shuttle bus between the two ports.

Be sure to check ferry status and schedules the day before you travel - they change often, and in rough sea conditions high-speed ferries don't operate. You can also arrange for a seamless transfer between the train station and your hotel on Capri by taxis and fast ferry.

A convenient way to see the island and its attractions without having to make all the connections and arrangements yourself is on a Capri Day Trip from Rome . The 13-hour tour provides transportation to Naples by comfortable coach. From Naples you'll take a 45-minute ride to Capri on a hydrofoil and then catch a bus to Anacapri, Capri's beautiful mountaintop village.

Afterwards, explore the sights of the island with a tour escort and then enjoy some time to wander around on your own and grab lunch. You can also choose to take another boat ride to see the fabled Blue Grotto as an option. The return trip includes the same boat and coach ride back to Rome.

If you plan to drive from Rome, you can get a ferry from Naples (2 hours and 20 minutes via A1/E45) or from Sorrento, on the Bay of Naples. The latter is about 50 minutes farther along the E45 but is a good option if you plan to spend a night or two there en route.

In either case, you will need to leave your car and take a ferry, as for most of the year, motor vehicles are not allowed on Capri -and would be of little use as there is only one road there.

In Naples, leave your car at Parcheggio Buono, at Molo Beverello, or Parcheggio Brin at Via Marina for Calata Porta di Massa (you can use either, as a bus connects the two ports). In Sorrento, ferries for Capri depart from the Marina Piccola, and you can park right there in Garage Marina Piccola or use the Parcheggio Correale, taking a taxi to the port.

Along with a chance to see lovely Sorrento, an advantage of this route is the scenery, as the ferry passes alongside a beautiful stretch of the Amalfi coast. The ferry schedule offers frequent departures daily. A faster, but more expensive option from Sorrento is a private speedboat , which takes about 20 minutes and usually includes a taxi directly to your hotel. The Capri website has links to private boats.

Tips on Renting a Car in Rome

• If you are not an EU citizen, you will need an International Driving Permit. You can apply for one through the AAA in the United States or from a post office in Great Britain or Northern Ireland.
• Collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance is mandatory in Italy, but most credit card companies don't offer car rental insurance in Italy. It is less expensive to include this prepaid insurance when you book a car in advance rather than adding the option at the pick-up desk.
• Car rentals are cheaper for non-EU citizens when booked in advance from your home country, as you will not be subject to taxes - which are quite high - that EU residents must pay. A good way to do this is through an agency such as AutoEurope , which works with all the major rental companies to find you the best price.
• If you plan to pick up a rental car at the airport, be prepared for lines and waits of more than an hour.

A private transfer is the easiest, a luxury option that saves time and the aggravation of making connections, finding the right train, hustling luggage, asking directions in a foreign language, and getting from the port to your hotel in Capri.

Of course, the deluxe option has a luxury price tag, but the price usually includes up to five people, so for a family it can end up costing only a little more than separate tickets. These stress-free transfers include a private car and driver directly to the ferry port, crossing by private speedboat, and a taxi to your Capri hotel (bypassing the often chaotic funicular/taxi/tickets scene at ferry arrivals).

Porterage for your luggage is included throughout. A less expensive but equally convenient option is transfer by limo and high-speed ferry with luggage service throughout and hotel transfer in Capri.

The fastest, and by far the most expensive way to get from Rome to Capri is by helicopter . Point-to-point time is 70 minutes, and the service includes a private minivan to your Capri hotel, as well as pickup from your Rome hotel or Rome's airport.

The transfer includes up to five people, but as the old saying goes, if you need to ask the price, this isn't the option for you.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Capri and Naples: To find the highlights on your visit to the island, see our handy article on the top tourist attractions in Capri . If you plan to stay overnight or longer in Naples, our list of the top tourist attractions in Naples & easy day trips can help you make the most of your time here.

Discovering Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast: If you're heading to Capri via Sorrento, you'll find our list of the top-rated tourist attractions in Sorrento handy. You might also find our Amalfi Coast visitor's guide helpful.

When in Rome: PlanetWare has a number of articles on the attractions of Rome , including guides to the Roman Forum , the Pantheon , the Colosseum, and Vatican City .

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Trips to Capri

• Praiano to Capri
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How to Get from Rome to Capri

Written by: Kate Zusmann

Getting from Rome to Capri is one of the most popular routes among travellers. The distance is 265 km. Undoubtedly, the most convenient option is to take a fast train from Rome to Naples and then one of the ferries that go to Capri. Also, there are direct buses that go to Naples for a cheaper price, but with a longer route. The journey will take from 1 to 6 hours.

• Here’s the list of options on how to get from Rome to the famous Capri Island:

From Rome to Naples

If you want to get to Capri from Rome, first you have to reach Naples .

If you are travelling from the Rome Fiumicino Airport , take the Leonardo Express shuttle train to the Termini railway station . Then, you can take a train which goes to Naples (Napoli). The same works with Rome Ciampino airport : once you arrived, take a bus or taxi to Termini station and take a train to Naples from there. Note: there are different types of trains that run between Rome and Naples:

• Eurostar Freccia Rossa (TAV) : considered as the most convenient option, but also the most expensive. In less than two hours you will arrive to Naples’ Piazza Garibaldi station. Moreover, the train departs every hour and usually it is quite punctual. The ticket price is about 50 euro
• Intercity: it takes about two hours to reach Naples by this train with the ticket price starting from 18 euro
• Interegional: the feature of these trains is that they stop at every station, so the journey from Rome to Naples will take about four hours. The ticket price is cheap, about 10 euro, so this option is perfect for budget tourists

You can purchase tickets in the station or online on the Italo or Omio.com websites. Prices for tickets are much lower if you buy them in advance. Moreover, if you buy high-speed train tickets in advance, there are often special offers available. However, such kind of tickets is non refundable

Getting to Naples from Rome by bus is the cheapest option. One-way ticket prices start from 9 euro. You can buy a ticket with  Flix Bus . The journey will take about 3 hours:

If you plan to get from Rome to Naples by car, the distance is 225 km. The ride will take around 2.5 hours. The option is convenient, but you have to consider toll roads and difficulties with parking, since you are going to visit one of the most touristic Italian spots.  This option works only in case if you are going to stay in Naples and plan to visit Capri for a day-trip.

• You can rent a car in Rome with  rentalcars.com

Private Transfer

Of course, you can book a private transfer from Rome to Naples. An average price for the private driver from Fiumicino airport to Naples is from 350 to 400 euro. For one of the best transfers you can use the service of Sergio&Partners with the best driver and our close Italian friend Sergio. One-way transfer price is 360 euro.

Ferry from Naples to Capri

Ferries from Naples to Capri depart from two ports: the Molo Beverello and the Calata Porta di Massa.

• The Molo Beverello’s location is opposite to the Maschio Angioino. All high speed ferries depart from this port. The ticket price is around 20 euro
• The Calata di Massa located in a km to the east. Ferries and slow ferries depart from there. The ticket price is around 15 euro

You can take the Alibus bus which stops at both ports and departures from the airport of Naples

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from €150.00

Here you can find schedules for ferries to Capri. They change often, so double-check a few days before your departure. Also, you can purchase tickets directly at the pier of departure, but you should better arrive earlier during the months of July and August since there is a change that all tickets will be sold out. You can book tickets online . Moreover, you will have to stop at the ticket desk before boarding to pick up your tickets. Each passenger has a small surcharge for baggage.

The journey from Naples to Capri by ferry will take:

• Slow Ferry: 80 minutes
• Ferry: 50 minutes
• High speed ferry or Catamaran: 40 minutes

Getting to the Port from the Naples Airport

• First option of getting to the port from the Naples airport is to take a bus outside the exit of Terminal 1. There is the Alibus shuttle, which departs for the port of Naples, stopping at both the Calata di Massa and Beverello ports. Ticket price is about 5 euro and you can buy it directly on board. The journey will take about 40 minutes
• The second option is to take a taxi outside the exit of Terminal 1. There are fixed fares to the ports – about 20 euro

Getting to the Port from the Naples Train Station

You can use one of numerous public transportation options to get from the Naples Central train station (Piazza Garibaldi) to the Molo Beverello port. However, the easiest way is to use the subway or underground system. You need to take Line 1 in the direction of Piscinola and get off at the Piazza Municipio stop. Another option is to take a taxi. The price will be about 10 euro.

Helicopter Transfer

One of the most unforgettable experiences and the fastest ways to reach Capri from Rome is by booking a transfer on helicopter.  It will take only 1 hour to reach the destination! If you are interested in taking such an unusual kind of transfer from Naples to Capri, the flight will take only 20 minutes. However, this option is the most expensive one since prices start from one thousand euro.

Best Things To Do in Naples

• Rent a boat to discover Capri from the sea and enter the Blue Grotto. Boat tours depart from Capri’s port, Marina Grande and continue along the southern shore of the island.
• Take a cocktail on one of the piazzas. This is the best way to enjoy the atmosphere of the city during the sunny weather
• Climb to Monte Solaro, which is the island’s highest point.
• Visit one of local restaurants to try Italian dishes or seafood plates.
• Do a photoshoot while exploring the island’s nature.
• Try one of the water sports.
• Visit the charming botanical Gardens of Augustus.
• Tour the ruins of the Roman emperor’s palace.
• Relax on the beach.
• Swim in the Green Grotto.

Where to Stay

The island of Capri is one of the most famous touristic spots. There are numerous options on where to stay on any budget.

Villa Ietra Salata

Villa Ietra Salata is a luxury villa. It features a private pool, a kitchen and sea views. There are 4 separate bedroom, 4 bathrooms with free toiletries and a hair dryer. Moreover, a continental breakfast is available every morning at the villa.

• Price per night for the whole villa starts from 1500 euro

Capri Tiberio Palace

Capri Tiberio Palace is a 5-star hotel located in a 19th-century building. It offers elegant rooms with LCD satellite TV. Also, it features a panoramic rooftop terrace.

• Price per night for a room for 2 persons starts from 700 euro

Hotel Senaria

The Hotel Senaria is located in a peaceful location and has an amazing atmosphere.The property combines classic Mediterranean architecture with modern elements. Most rooms have a terrace or balcony.

• Price per night for a room for 2 persons starts from 110 euro

Capri Dolce Vita

Capri Dolce Vita property offers charming rooms. It is located in the main square of the island, Piazzetta. Each room at Affittacamere Capri Dolce Vita has a mini-bar, a desk and safe. Some of them have a private balcony. This is one of the top-rated properties of Capri.

• Price per night for a room for 2 persons starts from 100 euro

Casa Boutique

Casa Boutique located 183m from Piazzetta di Capri. The property offers rooms with a flat-screen TV and a kitchen. The property is one of the top-rated places among tourists.

Capri Blue located in 100m from Piazzetta di Capri. There is free WiFi and beautiful design of the accommodations. Some units are air-conditioner and include a siting or dining area. There is a private bathroom in each room and all amenities are offered.

• Price per night for a room for 2 persons starts from 80 euro

Author: Kate Zusmann

I have lived in the Eternal City for the past 12 years. They say every angle of Rome has its history, and I'm here to tell you about the most intriguing historical facts and city legends. :)

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Getting to Capri

Find all the information you need to reach Capri from Rome, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast here!

The only way to reach Capri is by sea. Ferries depart from Naples and Sorrento; in the summer, there are also routes from Positano, Amalfi, Salerno, and Ischia.

For most of the year, motor vehicles are forbidden on Capri: non-resident vehicles can be embarked for the island only for the months between November and Easter. Regardless, there isn't much use for vehicles on Capri: there is only one road on the island, and there is excellent public transport.

The only way to reach Capri is, obviously, by sea. Ferries depart from Naples and Sorrento. During the summer months, there are also ferry routes departing from Positano, Salerno, and Ischia.

For most of the year, vehicles are prohibited from embarking for the island, with the exception of residents. That said, a car is of little use on Capri, so it's always better to leave it on the mainland.

Getting to Capri from Rome

The trip from Rome to Capri can be quite long: a minimum of three hours from when your flight arrives, if you are lucky with all your connections.

From Rome's Fiumicino Airport: the fastest connection between the Rome Fiumicino Airport and the Rome Termini train station is the Leonardo Express shuttle train.

From the Rome Termini train station, there are a number of trains departing to Naples

Eurostar Freccia Rossa (TAV) : the fastest train, taking little more than an hour between Rome and Naples. Tickets cost € 40.00.

Intercity : takes a little over two hours for the Rome - Naples route. Tickets cost € 20.00.

Interegionali : these are the slowest trains, stopping at each station along the route and taking 4 hours to arrive in Naples. Tickets cost € 10.00, but we recommend these trains only to those on a very tight budget.

From the Rome Ciampino Airport : once you arrive at Rome Ciampino, take the bus to the Roma Termini train station and follow the directions above.

Getting to Capri from Naples

Ferries from Naples to Capri depart from two ports: the Molo Beverello and the Calata Porta di Massa . The Molo Beverello is located opposite the Maschio Angioino, and the Calata di Massa is located about a kilometer to the east (to the left, facing the sea). The Alibus bus that runs from the Naples airport stops at both ports. From Molo Beverello, all high speed ferries depart; from Calata di Massa, instead, ferries and slow ferries depart, the only ferries which transport motor vehicles.

High speed ferries are faster and more expensive than ferries and slow ferries. The ticket for the high speed ferry from Naples to Capri costs around EUR 20 , while tickets for the ferry and slow ferry cost around EUR 15.

The schedules for ferries to Capri change often: always double-check a few days before your departure or contact the ferry company directly, especially in cases of rough seas!

Tickets can be easily purchased directly at the pier of departure , but we recommend arriving early at the pier during the months of July and August and during the weekends to avoid the risk of finding tickets sold out. Tickets can also be purchased in advance online through TraghettiLines service . You will still have to stop at the ticket window before boarding to pick up your tickets, however. There is a small surcharge for baggage.

Help! I get seasick! In summer, the sea in the Gulf of Naples is usually very calm, so you should have no problems if you are visiting Capri during those months. That said, here are some tips: Choose a ferry or slow ferry, rather than a high speed ferry. Sit in the center of the back rows. Don't look out the window, but stare at a fixed point directly in front of you or, even better, close your eyes and listen to music.

How long does the ferry take from Naples to Capri? Slow Ferry : 80 minutes Ferry : 50 minutes High speed ferry - Catamaran : 40 minutes

Getting to the Port from the Naples Airport

The nearest airport to Capri is Napoli Capodichino . Here's how to get to the island after landing: Bus - Outside the exit of Terminal 1, the Alibus shuttle bus departs for the ports of Naples, stopping at both the Calata di Massa and Beverello ports. Tickets cost around EUR 5 and can be purchased online or directly on board. The trip lasts about 40 minutes. The bus stops at Piazza Municipio, about a 3 minute walk from Molo Beverello. Taxi - Outside the exit of Terminal 1, there is a taxi stand with licensed taxis. Do not trust anyone who approaches you offering taxi service inside the airport. Before departure, request the fixed fare for the port (about EUR 20).

Book online the Alibus Tickets 

Getting to the Port from the Naples Train Station

There are a number of public transportation options to get from Naples' main Piazza Garibaldi train station to Molo Beverello, but the easiest is the subway or underground system (take Line 1 in the direction of Piscinola, and get off at the Piazza Municipio stop). Otherwise, the taxi stand for licensed taxis is located at the station exit; before departing, request the fixed fare for the port (about EUR 10).

Useful websites for the airport and buses: The Naples International Capodichino Airport ANM: Alibus schedule and routes

Private transfer: the most convenient way to reach your hotel

Getting to Capri isn't simple, especially for those who are flying in to Rome. You have to connect to a number of different types of transportation, and take into account that ferries are often overcrowded. By choosing a private transfer, however, you can get to Capri stress-free: opt for a private car from the airport directly to the port and ferry, or a private car to the port and private speedboat. Both options include assistance from pick-up to drop-off at your hotel.

Book a private transfer

Getting to Capri by Helicopter

Hoverfly Elicotteri offers helicopter transfers and excursions between the Island of Capri and the Naples airport, and all the major cities in central Italy including Rome and Florence. They can also fly to the most important destinations along the Coast , the Gulf of Naples, Sicily and Sardinia. Helicopter transfers are a particularly scenic, convenient, and fast way to reach Capri, cutting travel time dramatically.

Book a helicopter transfer

Getting to Capri from Sorrento

Ferries for Capri depart from Sorrento's Marina Piccola port. There are more frequent routes in the summer (departing about every 30 minutes), and the crossing lasts about 25 minutes . You reach the port of Sorrento by climbing down the stairs from Piazza Tasso. It's a short climb, but can be strenuous on the return trip back up, so take one of the shuttle buses running to Piazza Tasso or the elevator to the Villa Comunale.

Our tips The high speed ferry between Sorrento and Capri skirts a gorgeous stretch of coast, so sit on the left side to really enjoy the view!

Getting to Capri from the Amalfi Coast

High speed ferries for Capri depart from Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno . Routes are only active during the summer from April through October. Schedules and dates are published a few days before the routes begin running, so there is no way for us to get schedules in advance!

Schedules usually include a number of routes each morning from the Amalfi Coast to Capri, and return routes in the afternoon. Beginning in June, there are also routes from Capri to Positano and Amalfi each morning.

Getting to Capri from Ischia and Procida

You can reach Capri from Ischia by ferry from April to October. Routes run from Capri to Ischia in the morning and back to Capri in the afternoon. There are no morning routes from Capri to Ischia.

There are no ferry routes between Capri and Procida; you must transfer ferries on Ischia.

Once You've Arrived on Capri

Once you've arrived on Capri, hire a porter service right on the dock if you have a number of bags, which will transport all your luggage directly to your hotel. It is a service that costs €10 - 20 per bag, which may seem expensive until you realize how steep and narrow the lanes on the island are. You will consider it money well-spent , we guarantee!

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To reach the Piazzetta , you can take the funicular (which departs directly opposite the pier; the ticket office is to the right) or one of Capri's open-top taxis . The fare for a ride between the port and the Piazzetta is about €15. Just past the ticket office, there is the bus terminal where buses for the center of Capri town and Anacapri depart.

Useful Information Funicular schedule Bus Schedule Capri Bus Schedule Anacapri - Lighthouse - Blue Grotto Getting around Capri

Chart with recommended routes

Download the PDF Guide (PDF 1.2 MB)

• Things to do
• Day Trips from Rome

Located in the Gulf of Naples, Capri is a dream-like island surrounded by a deep blue sea that reflects a very special light. Come and discover it.

What to see in Capri

The island of Capri is divided into two towns; Capri, which mixes glamour, luxury and fashion, and Anacapri, a calmer part of the island where you can enjoy its special charm. Here are some of the places that you can't miss out on on your visit to Capri from Rome:

• Faraglioni : One of the essential places to visit in Capri is the Faraglioi, three giant stones more than 100 metres tall that emerge from the sea, providing us with impressive views
• Gruta Azul : The Gruta Azul is one of the most beautiful sites in Capri. This sea cave of deep blue is a magical paradise, capable of enchanting visitors at first glance.
• Giardini di Augusto : The Augusto Gardens are found at a strategic point on the Capri cliffs, where you have incredible views of the Faraglioni, and it's here where you'll fall in love with Capri.
• Piazzetta di Capri : The Piazza Umberto I, also known as la Piazzetta, is the social centre and heart of Capri. 
• Via Camerelle : If you're interested in going shopping in Capri, Camerelle streeStreethere you'll find the main international brands.
• Villa de Tiberio : The old Roman mansion known as the Villa de Tiberio is one of the most important sites to visit in Capri. Next to it, you can find "Salto di Tiberio", a place from where the emperor threw his servants who didn't follow his orders.

How to get to Capri from Roma

Although it's not very close to Rome, lots of people take a day trip to Capri from Rome .

If you are interested in visiting this marvellous island, the first thing you have to do is get to Naples . You can do this journey by car, although this will take around 4 hours, or a more comfortable and quicker option is by train, which will take less than 2 hours .

Once in Naples, you only have to take a ferry to the island of Capri.

La ruta de ferry que une Nápoles con Capri está operada por las compañías SNAV y NLG. Hay 16 barcos al día y el trayecto tiene una duración de unos 45 minutos. El precio de ida y vuelta es de unos € 50 ( US$ 54) (varía dependiendo del horario y la compañía).

The ferry route that connects Naples with Capri is operated by the SNAV and NLG companies. There are 16 boats a day and the journey lasts around 45 minutes. The price of a return ticket is about € 50 ( US$ 54) (which varies according to the time and company).

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• Amalfi Coast
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How to get to Capri

Find all the information you need to reach Capri from Rome, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast here!

The only way to reach Capri is by sea . Ferries depart from Naples and Sorrento ; in the summer, there are also routes from Positano , Amalfi , Salerno, and Ischia , not from Procida .

For most of the year, motor vehicles are forbidden on Capri and non-resident vehicles can only be embarked for the island between November and Easter. Regardless, there isn't much use for vehicles on Capri! There is only one road on the island and the town center is pedestrian zone.

How to get to Capri from Naples

In Naples, there are two piers from which ferries to Capri depart: Molo Beverello and Calata di Massa . The Molo Beverello pier is located in front of Maschio Angioino in the Piazza Municipio , the Calata di Massa pier is located further east (to the left, facing the sea). High speed ferries depart from Molo Beverello, and ferries and slow ferries from Calata di Massa. Ferries and slow ferries are more affordable and slower than high speed ferries, and are the only vessels which can embark motor vehicles. Schedules and prices change often: check again the day before you are scheduled to travel or contact the ferry companies directly, especially in case of rough seas! (When seas are very rough, high speed ferries are often suspended and only ferries and slow ferries continue to run). How to reach Capri from Naples

Ferry schedules

How long does the ferry take from Naples to Capri? Slow Ferry : 80 minutes Ferry : 50 minutes High speed ferry : 40 minutes

Help! I get seasick! If you are travelling during the summer months, you should have no problems as the sea is generally quite calm. Regardless, here are some suggestions: Choose a ferry or slow ferry, rather than a high speed ferry. Sit in the back rows. Don't look out the window, and listen to music.

How to get to the Molo Beverello Port from the Naples Airport

The nearest airport to Capri is Napoli Capodichino . Here's how to get to the island after landing:

Bus - As soon as you leave the terminal, look for the Alibus shuttle line that runs from the airport to the center of Naples . The bus makes three stops: the first in Piazza Garibaldi , the second at Calata di Massa (where many ferries depart), land the third at the port, near Molo Beverello . Tickets cost EUR 5 and can be purchased on board or online . Taxi - the taxi stand is located at the exit from the terminal. Request the fixed fare for the port (about €20) and do not accept rides from those who offer them inside the airport, as they are not licensed.

Book online the Alibus Tickets 

How to get to the Molo Beverello Port from the Naples Train Station

If you don't have much time and have a number of bags, take a taxi. The set fare for the taxi costs around EUR 16.Otherwise, you can take Linea 1 of the underground subway: the Piazza Municipio stop towards "Piscinola".

How to get to Capri from Rome

Getting to Capri from Rome takes at least three hours from the time your flight arrives , and only if you are lucky enough to make all of your connections...otherwise, the trip can take up to half a day! If you are arriving in late afternoon in Rome, consider staying overnight in either Rome or Naples.

From Rome's Fiumicino Airport , take the Leonardo Express shuttle train to the Roma Termini central train station, and from here transfer to a train for Naples .

Alternatively, there is a direct bus from Rome's Fiumicino airport to the Naples Piazza Garibaldi (Centrale) train station: From the Rome Ciampino Airport: once you arrive at Rome Ciampino, take the bus to the Roma Termini train station and then the train to Naples.

Private transfer: the most convenient way to reach your hotel

Trains, taxis, ferries, funicular... by this point, you've figured out that getting to Capri from Rome is not the easiest and most relaxing trip. If you'd like to begin your vacation stress-free, then it's a good idea to book a private transfer service. Transfer services to Capri usually include a private car with driver from the airport to the port, a sea crossing by private speedboat to Capri, and a taxi from the port to the hotel. Or you can opt for a helicopter transfer. If you are travelling in a small group, a private transfer can cost more or less the same amount as taking public transport , between train tickets, taxi, and ferry costs. A much better option is to spend the same for a convenient and relaxing private transfer !

Book a private transfer

Getting to Capri by Helicopter

The most simple and scenic way to reach the island of Capri is by helicopter. Travel from Naples, Rome, Florence, Sicily, and Sardegna by helicopter to Capri with the flights provided by Hoverfly Helicopters . The flight from Naples to Capri lasts about 20 minutes and lands at the heliport in Damecuta outside Anacapri. Most helicopter transfers include a private car directly to your hotel on Capri.

Book a helicopter transfer

How to get to Capri from Sorrento

Ferries for Capri depart from the Marina Piccola port in Sorrento . The crossing lasts a bit less than half an hour and the routes run frequently in the summer. From the center of Sorrento, there are a number of bus routes to the port, or you can arrive by foot taking the stairs down from Piazza Tasso.

Our tips The high speed ferry between Sorrento and Capri skirts a gorgeous stretch of coast, so sit outside on deck or on the left side to really enjoy the view!

Where to Park Your Vehicle Before Embarking for Capri In Naples Parcheggio Buono at Molo Beverello +39 335 499658 +39 335 499 658 Parcheggio Brin at Via Marina (then take the bus or taxi to the port) +39 081 7632 855 In Sorrento Garage Marina Piccola +39 081 8781 306 Parcheggio Correale (then take a bus or taxi to the port) +39 081 8773 022

How to get to Capri from from the Amalfi Coast

From April through October, there are direct ferry routes between Capri and the Amalfi Coast . Ferries to Capri depart from Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno ; during the months of July and August there are also ferry routes departing from Maiori. Schedules are published at the beginning of the tourist season around the end of March, but generally include two or three morning routes from the Amalfi Coast to Capri and return trips in the late afternoon. In June, July, and August, there are also one or two routes departing from Capri in the morning and from the Amalfi Coast in the afternoon.

How to get to Capri from Ischia

During the tourist season from April to October, there are direct ferry routes between Ischia and Capri, departing from Ischia in the morning and returning from Capri in the afternoon. There are no routes from Capri to Ischia in the morning, except for during the months of July and August. To get to Procida from Capri, you must transfer ferries on Ischia.

Once You've Arrived on Capri

The first thing we suggest you do is drop off your bags with one of the porter services on the pier. If your hotel is in Capri town , we recommend having the luggage porter service transport your bags directly to your room. The service will cost from €10-20 per bag (depending upon where your hotel is located), which can seem expensive until you consider having to drag bags through the narrow and steep lanes on Capri to begin your vacation...

To reach the Piazzetta , you can take the funicular (which departs directly opposite the pier; the ticket office is to the right) or one of Capri's open-top taxis. The fare for a ride between the port and the Piazzetta is about €20.

If your hotel is located in Anacapri , you should take a taxi with your bags. The fare from Marina Grande to Anacapri begins at €30 plus extra luggage fees. Otherwise, above the funicular ticket window you'll find the stop for bus routes to Anacapri , which run often. The alternative is to take the funicular and then the Capri-Anacapri bus . Most of the hotels on Anacapri offer free or economic shuttle services between the port and the hotel: inquire directly with your hotel.

Hotels, B&Bs, and Villas on Capri

Useful Information Ferry schedules Bus and Funicular Schedules Click and print: all the schedules you need Map of Capri How to get to Capri Capri Bus Schedules Funicular schedule for Capri

Capri guide - Free ebook

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Which is the closest airport to capri.

The closest airport to Capri is the Naples Capodichino Airport. It takes about 15 minutes to get from the airport to the Molo Beverello port to catch a ferry that will get you to Capri in about an hour. There is also a heliport on Capri near Damecuta, so you can reach the island directly from the mainland by helicopter.

Should I book a ferry ticket to Capri in advance?

You can usually purchase a ferry ticket directly at the port up to a few minutes before the departure time of the ferry. In July and August, as well as during the weekends from spring through fall, you should book in advance because ferries can fill up and you may not find availability at the last minute. We also suggest purchasing your return ticket to the mainland from Capri in advance if you'll be leaving in the afternoon.

How much does it cost to take a taxi from Capri to Anacapri?

The taxi fare from Capri to Anacapri is around EUR 20; taxis can transport up to 7 passengers.

Can I rent a car or minivan without a driver?

No, this service is not offered, and vehicles are generally not allowed on Capri.

What time does the last ferry to Capri depart?

From June to September the final ferry from Naples to Capri departs at 9:00pm. The remaining months of the year, the last ferry departs at 7:00pm. If you are arriving in late evening, you will have to book a private transfer by speedboat, or spend the night on the mainland.

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How to Plan an Unforgettable Trip to Rome, According to Local Experts

Whether your tastes swing towards art and architecture, high-end shopping and dining, or browsing markets and munching on street food, it’s an exciting time to visit Rome.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best nightlife, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

For me, the Eternal City is eternally fabulous. No matter how crowded it gets, how dysfunctional its current government is, or how many bad pizzas there are in ratio to good ones, Rome remains. It’s persisted and resisted for more than 2,775 years, and even at this ripe old age, Rome is still evolving. 

It’s an exciting time to visit Rome, and even for people who live there, the flurry of post-pandemic activity in the travel sector has been dizzying. “Archaeological sites that have been fenced-off for years are now accessible to visitors, there’s a host of innovative new tour options, and I can barely keep up with the number of absolutely stunning luxury hotels that have opened ,” says Travel + Leisure contributor and Rome resident Laura Itzkowitz, who also writes about Rome in her newsletter, The New Roman Times . “It’s a delight to see so much investment in the city and so many new ways to experience it.” 

No matter how you decide to see the city or whether your tastes swing towards art and architecture, high-end shopping and dining, or browsing markets and munching on street food, Rome gives you options. We asked Itzkowitz and some other Rome travel experts to weigh in on their favorite places and experiences to recommend in eternal Rome.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Swoon over the cityscape. Few things are as romantic as Rome at night from a vantage point like the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola or the Capitoline Hill.
• See marble turn to flesh. At the Galleria Borghese, Bernini’s lifelike sculptures are a gazillion times more impressive than what you remember from art history class. 
• Do the Full Monty of Italian dining. Bring your appetite and go big, with antipasto, pasta, main course, and dessert at a homey trat like Da Enzo da 29.  
• Get up early. At least once during your stay, request an early wake-up call to discover a deserted city. ArcheoRoma can lead the way. 
• Shop at a market. If you don’t buy produce, trinkets, or street food at a real Roman market like Testaccio or Campo de’ Fiore, have you been to Rome? 

Courtesy of Bettoja Hotels

Palazzo Vilòn

If there’s one thing our experts agree on, it’s that Palazzo Vilòn luxury apartment is the most sumptuous new address in Rome. Nicole Bono, luxury travel and events planner with Bono Events International says, “When they open the doors for you, your jaw will drop.” Gary Portuesi, a T+L Top Travel Advisor with Authentic Explorations , says that at Vilòn, “you get to live like a Roman aristocrat in an intimate palazzo in the best neighborhood.”

Singer Palace

“I'm in love with the Singer Palace these days,” says Bono of this 19th-century beauty in the former Singer sewing machine headquarters. “It's family-owned, and that is felt with every single detail in this property. You're truly cuddled from the moment you walk in the door till your last Spritz before you leave.”

Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Rome is also a hit with Portuesi, who raves about its “with its unique and secluded Mediterranean tiered secret garden walking distance from the Spanish Steps, Fontana di Trevi and Piazza del Popolo.” The hotel’s Stravinskij Bar remains one of Rome’s most elegant locales for a cocktail.  

Hotel Mediterraneo

Every time I exit Termini Station, I sigh with comfort at the sight of this trusty four-star in a fascist-era Art Deco building. Stepping through the doors feels like stepping back in time, in a good way, with old-school service, a delightful lobby bar, and humongous suites, some with skyline views of Rome.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Basilica di San Clemente

For a real sense of how Rome’s history is layered like a lasagna, head to this church near the Colosseum — or rather, underneath it. An atmospheric archaeological area beneath the not-too-shabby 12th-century church holds an even earlier Christian church, which lies on top of a pagan altar and an ancient Roman apartment building.  

ArcheoRunning

If you’re a runner, join archaeologist, guide, and running enthusiast Isabella Calidonna on an early morning jogging tour through Rome's truly magical empty streets. (Trust me, it’s okay if you run slowly.) If you’re not a runner, don’t sweat it — she’ll be happy to do the same informative tour at a walking pace. 

Via del Governo Vecchio

Spend a late afternoon vintage shopping on my favorite street in Rome , then stick around for an aperitivo, followed by pizza and gelato. If that trifecta of Roman drinking and eating isn’t enough, this splendid street near Piazza Navona has a buzzy but manageable bar-hopping scene. 

Largo Argentina

Want to stand at the very site (or very near it, anyway) where Julius Caesar lost his life? Long visible only from street level and best known as a cat sanctuary among picturesque ruins, the archaeological area at Largo Argentina site is now open to the public, thanks to funding from Bulgari . The Curia of Pompeo, where Caesar got shivved, stands near the ruins of four ancient temples.

Galleria Borghese

Reserve your tickets in advance and prepare to be overwhelmed by the beauty here, both of the ornate salons of this noble palace turned art museum, and the amazing works inside, including Bernini’s spellbinding "Rape of Proserpine" and several Caravaggio paintings.

Testaccio Market

This sprawling covered market in the working-class Testaccio neighborhood offers an authentic slice of Roman daily life. Even if you’re not shopping for clothing, produce or fresh fish, stop for some of Rome’s best street food, especially a suppli at Food Box or a drippy panino at Modri e Vai. 

Itzkowitz is a fan of this artisan jeweler in Monti and even had owner Antonio design a pair of custom earrings for her wedding. If you don’t have time for a made-to-order bauble, the shop has many original designs, many of which feature colorful gemstones.

Essenzialmente Laura

For a real only-in-Rome gift or souvenir, Portuesi refers friends and clients to the perfumery of Laura Bosetti Tonatto, who’s made custom scents for celebrities, royals, and aristocrats, including Queen Elizabeth II. “You can create your own perfect perfume or find the scent you love,” he says. 

La Bottega del Marmoraro

It’s hard to imagine a store like this anywhere else — a tiny workshop on pretty Via Margutta where stone carver Sandro Fiorentino tinks away at marble plaques by hand. “I love to bring out-of-town visitors here,” says Itzkowitz. “Prices start at around 15 euros, which means you can find an affordable, handmade souvenir.”

Courtesy of Hassler Hotel

Fontana dell'Acqua Paola

Some of the best things in Rome are free, including the views from this monumental fountain high on the Janiculum hill. It’s one of T+L’s top underrated things to do in Rome . Fans of the Oscar-winning film “Rome, the Great Beauty” will recognize this majestic spot.

This classy bar offers great cocktails and light bites with a sublime view. “A table there in the stunning Piazza di Pietra,” says Bono, “with the incredible Roman columns all lit up is truly magical, and it feels like it's just there for you."

Hassler Hotel 7th Floor Terrace

The recipe for an unforgettable Roman evening: Start with panoramic city views from atop the Spanish Steps, stir in a specialty cocktail, garnish with some elevated aperitivo fare, and drink it all in at one of our favorite family-run hotels in Italy and one of the absolute best in Rome.

Da Enzo da 29

Despite its near-legendary status and the long lines for a table (Enzo doesn’t take reservations), Itzkowitz says a meal here is “worth the wait and lives up to the hype — every time.” She’s a fan of the handmade tonarelli cacio e pepe but says that the food here is consistently good across the menu. 

Trattoria Da Cesare Al Pellegrino

This new-in-2023 sister property of a neighborhood favorite in residential Monteverde brings hearty, traditional Roman pasta and meat dishes to the centro storico. “Run, don't walk,” says Bono, “because this city location is super charming, and tourists haven't found it yet.”

Pro Loco Pinciano

Portuesi says you’ll feel like a local at this super-casual pizza and pasta joint just outside the city walls, where the emphasis is on ingredients and wines sourced from the surrounding region on Lazio. Charcuterie platters are delicious and abundant here. 

L'Antica Pesa

Regularly named one of the best restaurants in Rome, this Trastevere culinary landmark is, per Portuesi, “a standard and consistent classic” and worth crossing the river for. Head here for a special dinner or when you’re ready to go big (before going home, maybe?) and order an appetizer, pasta (primo), meat, and dessert for the full Italian dining experience.

You’ve heard all the warnings about visiting in high summer, but if that’s the only time you have to visit, Itzkowitz says to do as the Romans do: rest in your cool hotel room in the afternoon and venture out again in the early evening. Bono agrees that summer can be...sticky but adds, “Those summer sunsets on a rooftop with an Aperol spritz certainly make for that 'Dolce Vita moment' we all crave.”

Portuesi recommends November, as it’s still relatively warm and the crowds have thinned out; January, when sale season starts; or April and October. “Tourists might still be there, but the colors of spring and autumn are amazing, and temperatures are on the warm side.” I love visiting in January or February when the crowds are much more manageable, and if you’re lucky, you can catch some lovely, crisp, sunny days.

Most visitors fly into Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci/Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, you can take a 30-minute non-stop train to Termini, the central station, and take a taxi, Metro, bus, or tram to your accommodation. A cab from FCO to anywhere inside the Aurelian Walls costs 50 euros. Ride-sharing services other than Uber Black are not available in Rome. 

Rome’s historic center is primarily flat and highly walkable. Many visitors take the Metro to reach the Vatican Museums, then walk back into the city from there (or take a cab from St. Peter’s Square). 

Buses and Metro, both run by ATAC , are also reliable ways to get around, though depending on the distance, walking may be faster. Note that taxis in Rome cannot be hailed on the street. Instead, they wait at taxi stands or ranks generally located near tourist areas. 

I strongly recommend against renting a car in Rome, as traffic and parking are a mess and the centro is a maze of one-way streets, many of which are pedestrian-only. If you pick up a car in Rome for a more extended tour in Italy, make sure you have your route mapped out in advance — and nerves of steel. 

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7 Hidden Gems That Are Alternatives To Capri

Capri is one of the most beautiful islands in Europe, but there are better alternatives in Italy that you can visit instead.

• Skip Capri and explore these hidden gems in Italy for a more unique and affordable experience.
• Procida, Panarea, Ischia, Cinque Terre, Salina, and Pantelleria offer stunning alternatives to Capri.
• Enjoy the tranquility of Ponza and easy access from Rome for a relaxing weekend island escape.

Capri, one of the most beautiful islands in Europe , is nestled in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the Sorrento Peninsula in Italy's Campania region. The island is like a playground for the wealthy, and its majestic villas and steep cliffs shout "a destination of wealth for the rich." Sometimes referred to as "the Pearl of the Mediterranean," it's one of the most captivating islands in the world, and every tourist visiting for the first time will be overwhelmed by the breathtaking scenery of the island.

It offers a perfect blend of Italian culture and a coastal charm, which is what sets it aside from other island destinations in the country. However, even as gorgeous and fun as Capri is, there are still numerous destinations that are either similar, but quiet, affordable, or more unique and deserve to be seen. So, skip Capri for these beautiful hidden gems in Italy.

Going To Capri? Visit Villa Jovis, One Of The Largest Imperial Roman Villas Built

A laid-back alternative to capri.

Although Procida is overlooked because of Capri, it's one of the world's most colorful destinations and makes a perfectly laid-back alternative. Located in the Bay of Naples, the island offers plenty of things to do, including wandering around Marina Grande, which is home to many colorful buildings as well as most of the island's restaurants, hotels, and souvenir shops.

Procida has appeared in a number of local and international movies, including Cleopatra and The Talented Mr. Ripley , thanks to its incredibly stunning scenery.

A perfectly affordable alternative to Capri

Capri's breathtaking scenery, luxury experiences, and timeless allure are some of the reasons it has always been popular with the wealthy and celebrities. The island's vibe is similar to the one in Panarea, which is considered the most fashionable island.

Panarea is brimming with glamorous stores, lavish clubs, and numerous fun events to explore. It's an affordable alternative to Capri, as a 1-week trip costs $1,549 for one person , which is cheaper than Capri's $1,749.

A quieter, family-friendly retreat on this lesser-visited island

Capri is incredibly stunning and comes with a lot of fun experiences, from delicious food to pristine beaches to postcard-worthy scenery. However, it's always overcrowded, especially in summer. Head to Ischia, which is one of the most gorgeous islands in Italy for a perfect getaway , and guarantees a quieter island retreat.

The island is also known for its family-friendliness, and kids will enjoy spending time at the medieval Aragonese Castle. Another must-do family adventure is enjoying the thermal and hyperthermal volcanic waters, which come with healing properties.

4 Cinque Terre

For those on a tight budget or seeking a laid-back coastal experience.

There are plenty of reasons why Cinque Terre is the most beautiful place in Europe . One of the most attractive things about Cinque Terre is that it's an impressive collection of five traditional fishing villages. It boasts a delicious culinary scene, amazing outdoor activities, and historical sites.

The villages are an affordable alternative to Capri, which costs $1,749 per person for a one-week trip . Cinque Terre, on the other hand, is slightly cheaper, costing $1,662 per person for a one-week trip . Cinque Terre also offers a more laid-back vacation experience, and since it's smaller, it's a perfect option for those only staying around for a short while.

Although Cinque Terre gets crowded in summer, it does feel like a secret gem, and the colorful cliff-side villages are more stunning during the off-season.

A perfect alternative for nature and wine lovers

Salina, one of the Aeolians in the southernmost part of the country, is among the best-hidden gems in Italy and makes a great alternative to Capri. It's brimming with capers, which are usually referred to as the orchids of Salina, and grapes that produce a variety of wines. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, the island boasts numerous farms and green spaces, making it a haven for nature lovers.

2 Pantelleria

Enjoy the remoteness and quietness on this quiet volcanic island.

Although it's overlooked, this forgotten island off the coast of Sicily is worth visiting and makes a quiet alternative to Capri. It's small, but incredibly breathtaking and offers the best of both worlds. Nestled right in the heart of the Mediterranean, the island is known to be one of the most remote in Sicily, making it a perfect choice for tourists who want to get away for a while.

Ponza's tranquility and proximity to Rome make it a better option than Capri

One of the hidden travel gems in Italy , Ponza is a place to take a step back and relax. One can visit many of the enchanting beaches, enjoy scenic walks, try some of the most delicious Mediterranean dishes, and visit museums. Its proximity to Rome makes it a perfect weekend island escape if you're staying in the capital, as the ferry ride is only 70 miles. Ponza offers a relaxing atmosphere and easy access to Rome's beautiful attractions, making it a perfect alternative to Capri.

Ponza is also easily accessible from Naples and a high-speed hydrofoil takes less than 3 hours to get to the island.

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from Sorrento to Capri, including grotto and Positano - Sorrento Forum

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from Sorrento to Capri, including grotto and Positano

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I would like to avoid the cost of a semi private boat. We would like our last stop to be in Positano for an aperitivo at Franco’s.

Would love some insight on logistics!

4 replies to this topic

Capri is a big island and deserves a full day trip.

The best option at night is to book a private driver from Positano to Sorrento at about €100 or take a chance on the overcrowded buses. It's quite a pricey aperitivo and it might be better, no it will be better, to visit Positano on another day.

You are a wealth of information and O appreciate you and your advice.

Grazie mille!

You want to go to both in one day?

That is - well, ambitious, not sure how enjoyable either with all the waiting in lines for ferries, the actual ferry travel and Franco's is always swamped - lines can be long and loads of people never get in as it has become an Instagram thing - https://francosbar.com/en

If going this summer or early Fall, the lines and wait time to get into a little boat (once you arrive on the larger boat) to the Blue Grotto can take a really long time so it is not a quick activity to do, you need to factor in some significant time for it.

http://www.capri.net has info on it and the island - which is much much larger than tiny Positano - not sure what you can see in just a few hours before heading to Positano.

If possible, doing to the island for a full day can provide a much more enjoyable experience given what's involved in just getting and being there. It is mostly pedestrian only so it takes time to see anything of interest

Positano too is mostly pedestrian - if you arrive via sea, you will need to walk up to the road to go to the road (the only road in Positano) to Franco's - it's not a long walk up but when crowded, the narrow walkway can take longer than you think.

We went to Capri last week. It was a full and tiring day just to see the some of sights. Since people live and vacation there, it could take multiple days or a lifetime to experience everything. Don’t rush the visit. It is too beautiful.

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Cinematic, Undiscovered, Cilento

In this less-traveled region of Italy, the scenery is spectacular, the water wine-dark. It has sun and sea, along with important Greek ruins, wild nature, curious legends and medieval religious sanctuaries.

The baroque Certosa di Padula, a former monastery and one of the largest in Europe, was inhabited by monks who kept a vow of silence. Credit... Francesco Lastrucci for The New York Times

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By Nina Burleigh

• Published May 21, 2024 Updated May 24, 2024

From a piazza in the town of Castellabate on the Cilento coast of Italy, you may lift your eyes over the rim of your cappuccino and drink in a panorama of sky and Mediterranean Sea from Salerno to the Gulf of Policastro. Looking way, way down, a fruited plain of vineyards, lemon trees and white fig stretches to the flanks of green mountains decked with wisps of vapor.

Standing at the same point in 1811, Napoleon’s brother in law, appointed King of Naples in the early 19th century, uttered words that the town has engraved on a wall near the castle: “Qui non si muore.” Roughly, Here you do not die.

Of course, people do die in the Cilento, a region south of the Amalfi Coast. But they also live longer than most, thanks to the Mediterranean Diet, first studied in these parts. It is more accurate to say that here, eternal life is a more appealing proposition.

Last spring, I decided to explore Italy’s second largest national park, the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park, which encompasses both sea and mountains, and its environs, on foot. I made the town of Acciaroli my home base, from an Airbnb with a bedroom window that opened on the port. My goal was to “staccare la spina,” or unplug, in Italian. It was early May, no summer crowds. At dawn, cooing doves and trilling Eurasian blackbirds woke me. I swam in the cold, silvery bay, grabbed a caffe macchiato at one of the port bars, donned hiking boots and, armed with a guidebook called “Secret Campania,” and a trekking app called Komoot , set off in my rented manual Fiat Panda.

One of the great things about Italy, for non-Italians anyway, is how easily one slides into the sense of being in a movie. Driving the Via Bacco e Cerere east from the sea into the Alburni mountain, downshifting up switchbacks with puffy clouds casting shadows on towering white cliffs, I felt like Ms. James Bond.

The scenery is cinematic, the views spectacular, the water wine-dark, but the Cilento is not as internationally popular as the Italian playgrounds of Capri and Positano. It is a rather well-kept secret. Here the same sun and sea can be had at a fraction of the cost, along with important Greek ruins, wild nature, curious legends and medieval religious sanctuaries.

Americans are rare in these parts. Many of the residents don’t speak English. A raffish vibe appeals to a certain type: Ernest Hemingway hung out with fishermen around here. After World War II, the American Army doctor Ancel Keys stumbled into the region, bought an old villa and devoted his life to studying the salubrious effects on the heart of a diet of olive oil, fish and fresh vegetables. There’s a museum devoted to the Mediterranean Diet he made famous in the fishing hamlet of Pioppi.

It has been wild country for a long, long time. After the fall of Rome, the coastal populations here dwindled. Wild boar, wolves and bear retook the mountains. In the Middle Ages, Christian hermits and monks moved in. Long into the 19th century, the region retained a savage reputation. Local criminals became heroic “Briganti” during fighting over the unification of Italy, then formed the mafia that has run southern Italy since.

The Italic warrior tribe Lucani were the first recorded inhabitants of the Cilento (the name comes from the Latin “Cis Alentum,” meaning this side of the Alentum River, which flows through Campania). Ancient Greeks colonized the coast, and their stupendous Doric temples at Paestum, which inspired writers like Goethe and 18th-century architects across Europe, are among the best preserved in the Mediterranean. The museum in the ancient city of Paestum displays Lucanian tomb paintings, paint still bright, mute testaments to the mystery of a gone religion involving sphinxes, female guides to the underworld and male warriors.

Buffalo country

My trekking plan always had an ulterior motive: to justify gorging on Cilento food and wine. The region produces some of the finest basics of Italian cuisine. Extra virgin olive oil obtained from oak-sized trees; fresh seafood; homemade pasta and sauces; buffalo, cow and goat cheeses; and of course pizza, all washed down with the local rosso .

The road to Paestum is lined with shops selling mozzarella from the milk of Asian buffalo, possibly first introduced to Italy by the Greeks. On a rainy afternoon, I joined a tour of the Tenuta Vannulo , an organic mozzarella farm, where men in white coats transformed milk from 200 buffalo into creamy balls of cheese beloved by foodies everywhere. The farm itself is mechanized to a crazy extent: The animals are trained to voluntarily enter a self-serve Swedish-made milking machine. After six minutes they exit to a reward of forage and an automated buffalo massage machine.

The Cilento and Vallo di Diano Park covers 699 square miles of beaches, cliffs, emerald vales, river gorges and mountain meadows, with plenty of well-marked trails. I walked about five miles a day in different zones of the park. I regretted that I didn’t have time to cycle just a leg of the 373-mile “via Silente” bike path that circuits the park with nightly stops at various hamlets.

I started my hiking along the water. A sinuous, rutted coastal road links the fishing towns of the Cilento coast and a knee-high guardrail is all that lies between a car and hundreds of feet of air above the sea. The cliffs inspired tales of nymphs who seduced sailors to come close to the rocks where they shipwrecked. If the sailors didn’t respond, the nymphs would dash themselves on the rocks for unrequited love.

An easy, flat walk from the port of San Marco Castellabate, through olive trees and native Mediterranean shrubs, leads to the site of one of the mermaid legends, Punta Licosa. Leukosia was one of three sirens who, in “The Odyssey,” tried to enchant Ulysses and his men. The great voyager had his men stuff their ears with wax and he tied himself to the mast to resist their song. For failing to seduce the sailors, the sea god Poseidon turned Leukosia into the rocky cliff that bears a version of her name.

A trickier walk, over a steep rock path, led up from the bay at Palinuro, a town of countless gelaterias and restaurants that in summer mostly serve vacationing Italians, around a mountain to a point overlooking the Grotta Azzura (blue grotto), a major draw for cave divers.

Often enough, I had trouble finding trail heads despite Komoot (which kept me on course once I started). One afternoon I wandered for two hours in a light rain around a hilltop hamlet called Ogliastro Cilento, seeking in vain the entrance to an evocative-sounding walk called Sentiero dell’Albero Centenario (path of the 100-year-old trees). I never found it, but I did wander several miles through olive groves, trailed for part of the way by two friendly farm dogs.

A valley of orchids

Deeper in the Alburni range, the hamlet of Sassano, an assemblage of biscuit-colored houses with red roofs planted on the flank of Monte San Giacomo, is the gateway to the Valle delle Orchidee. In May, more than 100 species of wild orchids bloom in a microclimate. A few miles of easy walking wound through an astonishing spectacle of tiny pink, yellow, red and purple blossoms on single stems. These rare flowers proliferated like common dandelions as far as the eye could see.

I got lost driving to Sassano and pulled over at a caffe bar. A row of middle-aged men sat in a line of chairs under the awning in the morning sun like a 1940s photograph. This was Teggiano, my “Secret Campania” guidebook informed me, built around a medieval fortress with 25 towers, and home of one of the more peculiar Cilento legends: During a monthslong siege in the 15th century, Teggiano women supposedly breastfed soldiers to keep them vigorous.

On a plateau deep in the mountains, beyond a maze of farm roads, the baroque Certosa di Padula , a former monastery and one of the largest in Europe, is almost as unbelievable as the opera house in Werner Herzog’s “Fitzcarraldo.” Among its hidden gems is a library with a self-supporting spiral staircase from the 15th century and an 18th-century glazed earthenware floor in blue and emerald green.

For five centuries, Carthusian monks lived and died here, after committing to silent, solitary lives. They only spoke once a week, on Sunday walks in the woods. On the Sunday I visited, the compound was ringing with Italian families enjoying a sunny afternoon outing. Laughing children played hide and seek in the shadows of arched arcades while elders sipped espresso and Aperol spritzes at tables nearby.

The Certosa is not Padula’s only tour-worthy attraction:the Joe Petrosino House Museum honors the life of a hero New York police officer, Joe Petrosino. An Italian emigrant who grew up in New York City, he fought the mafia in the early 20th century, and died in Italy when he came over to collar a New York mafia boss and was assassinated by the villains.

During my five days in the Cilento, I did not staccare la spina entirely: I lived by my navigational apps, Google translate, a birdcall identifier, and of course my iPhone playlist. But I returned to Rome in muddy shoes, with a sweatshirt that retained the scent of the buffalo farm and a new appreciation for the backcountry of the pulchra terra that is Italy.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article included an incorrect translation of the Italian word caseificio. It means cheese factory, not homemade.

An earlier version of this article misidentified where the words “Qui non si muore” are displayed in the town of Castellabate. They are on a plaque on a wall near the castle, not on the town hall. It also provided an incorrect translation of the Latin words “Cis Alentum,” which means this side of the Alento River, not the other side.

An earlier version of this article misidentified when Joe Petrosino, a New York City police officer, fought the mafia. It was in the early 20th century, not the mid 20th century.

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