If you are looking for a European tourist destination, consider the Isle of Capri in the Bay of Naples. This tourist attraction popular with jet setters and many others lies in the Campania region of southwestern Italy on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Frankly, Capri is the opposite of undiscovered; it ranks with Rome, Florence, and Venice at the top of Italian tourist destinations. In fact, it is probably one of the most visited little islands in the world. Does that mean you should avoid it? While the ultimate answer is up to you, this article may help you make up your mind. Make sure to see our other articles on Campania destinations in this series; they cover Campania's capital city Naples, the historic ruins east of Naples, the area west of Naples, and finally Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.



The British singer and vaudevillian Gracie Fields popularized the song The Isle of Capri: "'Twas on the Isle of Capri that he found her; Beneath the shade of an old walnut tree; Oh, I can still see the flowers blooming 'round her; Where they met on the Isle of Capri." Many others recorded this song including Frank Sinatra in 1957.

The island is quite small, and most tourist cars are not permitted. Fishermen in small boats once transfered tourists onto Capri from ferries anchored in the bay. Make sure to visit the port and see the Church of San Costanzo, Capri's oldest church, the ruins of Roman Emperor Octavian Augustus' villa, and the Tiberius Baths.

Do you want to stay in Capri forever? Walk to the Bay of Naples and touch the Sphinx Parapet's hindquarters with your left hand while you make a wish. Legend says your wish will be granted.

The Villa di Damecuta was constructed for the Roman Emperor Tiberius. Visit the tower and the two rooms that reputedly were Tiberius's summer hideaway. It was a fort during the battle for Capri between the English and the French.

The world-famous Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) is on the northern coast of Capri. To enter the Grotto you must lie down inside a tiny boat. The blue water inside the grotto is unbelievable. The best viewing time is between 11 AM and 1 PM.

Capri Town is the island's largest municipality. The Ignazio Cerio Centre Museum includes specimens from Capri and all over the globe. It's an old palazzo across from the Byzantine St. Stefano Church. There are several other historic churches in Capri Town.

This upscale island raises very little food but fancy restaurants abound. The Isle of Capri was already well known for its wines in the days of the Roman Empire. Capri still produces wine. Be careful, wine from the neighboring island of Ischia is often sold as Capri wine.