CAPRI

The island of Capri wasn't quite the magical place we imagined. We knew as soon as we arrived on shore for our day trip from Sorrento and followed a massive crowd of tourists into Marina Grande that Capri was one of those places that's better explored in the evenings after the majority of day trippers go home. Sure, the island's rugged landscape and panoramic views of the sea were a highlight of our travel experiences, but those crowds were difficult to ignore. It would have been worth spending a couple of nights here to get a true feel for the place.

We also made the hard decision on our day trip to pass on a visit to the Blue Grotto, a famous cavern where the sea glows blue as the sunlight passes through the cave. We had a free hour where we could either take a boat tour around the island and see the main sights along the coast, including the iconic Faraglioni sea stacks, or complete a series of transfers to the grotto for a five-minute visit inside. The time and money seemed better spent on the boat tour, but the disappointment of missing that natural site hasn't faded.

Adventures: Anacapri, chairlift to Monte Solaro, Capri town, Marina Grande, island boat tour, Statue of the Scugnizzo, Faraglioni, Grotta Verde

Takeaways: 1) This is the place to go for upscale shopping. 2) We underestimated the heat this time of year. 3) We somehow always sign up for something that challenges someone's fear of heights. 4) The crowds here are intense. 5) The Faraglioni are taller than expected.

Memorable Moments: 1) Driving up the road to Anacapri. 2) Taking the chairlift to Monte Solaro. 3) Taking in the view of Marina Grande from Anacapri. 4) Sailing through the archway of the Faraglioni.

^^ entrance to the Blue Grotto ^^

Recommendations:

1) Avoid visiting in the summer months.

2) Consider staying on the island overnight and spending at least two days here.

3) Take the chairlift to Monte Solaro.

4) Tour the island by sea.