How to plan the perfect day trip from Sorrento to Capri

When life gives you lemons, take the ferry!
Fri, 30 January 2026 The Ferryhopper Team

When life gives you lemons, Capri is the kind of place that knows exactly what to do - turn them into limoncello with a view! Think sparkling blue waters, glamorous beach clubs, a zingy atmosphere, and you’re halfway there.

Picture yourself stepping onto a ferry and, less than 20 minutes later, you’ll be living it up in one of Italy’s most iconic islands. In this blog, we’ll walk you through all the details for the perfect Sorrento to Capri day trip.

Panoramic view of Faraglioni rocks in Capri, Italy

Don’t forget, Capri is just a short ferry hop away!

Getting to Capri from Sorrento

The only way to get from Sorrento to Capri is by sea, with ferries running all year round and around 30 daily crossings in the summer. The journey takes as little as 15 minutes and tickets typically cost from €21.50.

The earliest ferry for Capri normally sets sail at 07:15, so you can beat the tourist rush to many of the island’s highlights.

Marina Grande and Capri Town

With an early ferry across the Gulf of Naples along the Sorrentine Peninsula, you reach Marina Grande just as Capri is waking up. Skip lingering at the port and hop on the funicular for a ride up to Capri Town. Sure, you can walk up to town, but the cable cars run continuously and it only takes about 5 min so you’ll be there before it gets busy.

Once you reach town, make your way to the Piazzetta for an espresso or cappuccino. Yes, it’s the most touristy thing that you can do, but that’s the point! While you’re in town, you can do a bit of window shopping at Via Camerelle, before heading over to the Gardens of Augustus for the jaw-dropping views of the Faraglioni sea stacks, Via Krupp and Marina Picola (more on that later).

View of Marina Grande in Capri, Italy

Welcome to Capri!

Anacapri & Monte Solaro

When you’ve had your fix of glamor and glitz in Capri Town, it’s time to shift gears and head towards Anacapri for a taste of the island’s more laid-back and authentic side. You can catch a taxi or hop in a bus and be there in about 10 min.

If you brought your hiking shoes, you can head up Monte Solaro, which is around 589 meters above sea level. On a clear day, you will be treated to the widest panorama on the island, stretching from the Bay of Naples all the way to the Amalfi Coast.

On your way down, be sure to visit Villa San Michele. This is as Capri as it gets, with evergreen gardens and cinematic viewpoints seemingly around every corner, plus a fascinating collection of art and antiquities gathered by its Swedish creator, Axel Munthe.

View of path covered with red bougainvillea in Capri, Italy

Find some time to relax in the gardens

Kick back at Marina Piccola

After all the wandering around, it’s time to let those Capri vibes sink in, and there’s no better place to kick back than Marina Piccola. This is a family-friendly bay with calm waters that is perfect for a relaxing swim and dreamy views of the Faraglioni. It’s also one of the sunniest spots on the island, making it a great midday break if you’re short on time.

Come lunchtime, pick a beach club or a laid-back seaside restaurant and try a few local classics, like a caprese salad made with island tomatoes and mozzarella, pezzogna (red seabream) or a simple plate of ravioli capresi pasta stuffed with cheese and marjoram, and tossed in a fresh tomato and basil sauce. Add a glass of Capri’s famed local wines, and it’s very easy to let lunch turn into a slow, sun-soaked break by the sea before moving on with your day.

Closeup view of lemon sorbet in Capri, Italy

Pro tip: there’s always room for lemon sorbet!

Bathe in the glow of the Blue Grotto

No day trip to Capri is complete without seeing the Blue Grotto, so the early afternoon is one of the best times to plan your visit. You’ll reach the entrance by boat and transfer into small rowboats to enter the cave, where sunlight filtering through the water creates that unreal, electric-blue glow the grotto is famous for.

It’s a short visit, but one that genuinely feels unlike anything else on Capri. There’s usually some waiting involved, especially in the summer, but stay flexible and let the experience speak for itself once you’re inside.

View of boats in the Blue Grotto, Capri, Italy

Suffice to say, photos do not do the Blue Grotto justice

Return to Sorrento at golden hour

As the sun begins to dip, it’s your cue to make your way back to Capri Town and start winding down your day. If you time it right, you can squeeze in one last stroll through the Piazzetta or enjoy a gelato with a view as the light softens and the island slows its pace.

The last ferry on the Capri - Sorrento route usually sets sail around 19:00, giving you plenty of time to get back without rushing. You’ll arrive in Sorrento just in time for dinner, whether that means a relaxed meal by the marina or heading straight into town for a night out.

Travel tips

Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when planning your day trip from Sorrento to Capri:

  • The port of Sorrento can get busy, especially during the high season, so it’s best to arrive there at least 30 min ahead of departure.
  • Many ferries have outer decks, where you can enjoy the sea view, so along with sun protection (hat, sunglasses and sunscreen), bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can get a bit breezy outside.
  • Walking around in Capri Town and the villages involves steep steps and cobbled streets, so opt for comfortable walking shoes.
  • Make sure to book your return ticket on the Capri - Sorrento ferry in advance, for peace of mind.
  • For all travel options in the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, take a look at the Sorrento ferry schedules.

FAQs

Can you visit Capri in just one day?

Yes, with around 30 daily crossings and a travel time of as little as 15 minutes, it is very easy to plan a day trip from Sorrento to Capri.

Is there a high‑speed ferry to Capri?

Yes, the route from Sorrento to Capri is mainly operated by fast hydrofoils and high-speed ferries. The fastest ferry takes around 15 minutes to cover the distance.

How much do Sorrento - Capri ferry tickets cost?

Standard deck/lounge ticket prices for the Sorrento - Capri ferry generally range from €21.50 to €27, each way, depending on the ferry company and vessel.

Can I take my pet on the ferry?

Yes, you can bring your four-legged buddy on most ferries to Capri, just include them in your reservation when booking your tickets. Pet tickets usually cost about €5. Smaller pets must be kept in their carrier, while larger pets must wear a muzzle and be kept on a leash.

Don’t forget to bring your pet’s health and travel documents, tickets and any pet supplies you may need for the trip.

Good to know: for further details, check out our blog on traveling by ferry in Italy with pets.

Do I need to pre-book my ferry to Capri?

Yes, while it is possible to find tickets at the last minute, Capri is a very popular destination, so availability will be limited.

By booking tickets in advance, you will not only secure tickets for your preferred dates and crossings, but you can also take advantage of early bird discounts and special offers.

View of Marina Grande at twilight, Capri, Italy

La dolce vita is in full swing, Capri style!

Ready to plan your Sorrento - Capri day trip?

All that’s left now is the easy part, sorting out the ferry! Check out our Map of ferries, where you can find all connections and book your ferry tickets to Capri on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks!