Traveling to Capri is often a highlight of any trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, but booking a tour that truly captures the island’s magic can make all the difference. The Capri Land and Sea Small Group Tour from Sorrento offers a well-rounded experience with plenty of opportunities to see the best of what this enchanting island has to offer. From scenic boat rides and sea grottos to the hilltop charm of Anacapri, it’s a day packed with unforgettable sights and authentic touches.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the intimate group size which ensures a personalized experience, the variety of activities including boat and land tours, and the breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rocks and coastline. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the moderate walking involved and the fact that the chairlift ride to Monte Solaro is optional and not included in the price—something to plan for if you’re keen on reaching the summit. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and local culture, all in a day trip from Sorrento.
Good To Know
- Small group size enhances interaction and personalized attention
- Boat tour around the island offers close-up views of sea grottos and Faraglioni rocks
- Visit to Anacapri includes the option to ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro
- Free time in Capri’s main square allows for independent exploring
- Transport arrangements include ferry tickets and shuttle buses, simplifying logistics
- Price point offers good value considering the included activities and expert guidance
Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
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Starting at Sorrento’s Marina Piccola
The tour kicks off at Sorrento’s main port, Marina Piccola, outside the Hotel il Faro. It’s a straightforward meeting point, with the benefit that you don’t have to worry about complicated pickups—just arrive and check in. From there, you board a fast ferry to Capri, which takes roughly 20-30 minutes, offering a quick but scenic crossing across the Bay of Naples. The ferry ride alone is often cited as a beautiful way to start the day, with views of the coastline and distant Mount Vesuvius.
The Boat Tour: A Closer Look at Capri’s Coastline
Once on the island, you’ll hop onto a shared boat ride that circles around Capri. This is usually highlighted as a tour favorite because it offers a unique perspective of the island’s dramatic coastline. You’ll see the famous Green Grotto, White Grotto, and Red Grotto, each with their own distinctive allure—some with shimmering waters and others with caves that seem to glow in different shades of green, white, and red.
Travelers have noted that the boat ride offers “great views of the Faraglioni rocks”, the iconic sea stacks that make Capri instantly recognizable. The boat experience tends to last around an hour, providing plenty of photo opportunities and chances to appreciate the natural beauty of Capri’s coast. Many reviews mention that the boat guide is informative, giving interesting facts about each grotto and the coastline’s geological features.
Land Excursion: From Marina to Anacapri
After the boat tour, the group boards a shuttle bus that takes you along the “Mamma Mia Road,” a scenic route winding through the island’s rugged terrain to Anacapri. This part of the trip offers sweeping vistas and a chance to see some of the more tranquil, less crowded parts of Capri.
In Anacapri, travelers typically enjoy some free time to explore the charming streets, indulge in local cuisine, and browse artisan shops. The highlight for many is the chairlift ride to Monte Solaro, the highest point on Capri. Though not included in the tour’s price, the ride is often viewed as worth the small extra expense because of the panoramic views of the island, Bay of Naples, and beyond.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Heart of Capri: Piazza Umberto I
The final stop is Capri’s main square, Piazza Umberto I, often called the “Piazzetta.” It’s a lively spot filled with cafés, boutique shops, and people watching. It’s the perfect place to soak in the glamorous yet relaxed vibe of Capri before heading back to the port. Tour reviews emphasize the value of having this free time to wander at your own pace or simply sit with an espresso and watch the world go by.
Returning to Sorrento
As the day winds down, you’ll board the ferry back to Sorrento, arriving after roughly an 80-minute journey. Reviews mention that the return trip is a calm, relaxing way to reflect on the day’s adventures, with some travelers noting that the views of Vesuvius and the coastline at sunset are particularly stunning.
Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities
The entire day runs around 8 hours, starting at the Sorrento port and ending back where you began. The ferry tickets are included, removing the hassle of booking separate transportation. The shuttle bus on the island makes navigating the often steep or uneven terrain easier, although some walking is involved at each stop—comfortable shoes are recommended.
The tour’s moderate walking means it’s suitable for most people, but those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs might find it challenging. The optional chairlift to Monte Solaro is a highlight for many, but it’s important to note that you’ll need to pay for it separately if you want to reach the summit.
Timing-wise, the start times vary, so checking availability is essential to plan your day. The 24-hour cancellation policy offers flexibility, which is helpful if weather or other unforeseen factors impact your plans.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the price:
- Round trip ferry tickets from Sorrento to Capri
- Guided boat tour around Capri
- Shuttle bus transport on the island
- An English-speaking guide to share interesting facts and assist throughout the day
Not included:
- Meals and drinks (though many visitors find the local cafes in Capri inviting for a quick lunch or coffee)
- The chairlift to Monte Solaro (extra cost if you decide to ride)
Having ferry tickets and transport arranged in advance makes this tour feel straightforward—especially for first-time visitors. However, if you’re craving a more flexible or customized experience, you might consider exploring additional options or private tours.
Authentic Experiences and Tips
Reviewers mention that the boat guide is knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing lesser-known facts about Capri’s geology and history. Some travelers appreciated the small group setting, which fosters a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. It’s also great for families or couples wanting a manageable day tour without large crowds.
A tip from past guests: bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat—especially during summer months. The boat ride can get warm and sunny, and exploring Capri’s streets involves some walking up and down hills.
This Capri Land and Sea Small Group Tour from Sorrento offers a balanced, value-packed adventure that captures the essence of Capri. You’ll see the island’s most famous sights, enjoy a boat ride around its stunning coastline, and have free time to soak up the lively atmosphere of the Piazzetta. The combination of boat, land, and optional chairlift makes it a comprehensive taste of Capri’s natural beauty and charm.
Ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore with a knowledgeable guide, this tour suits those eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly good if you love scenic views, authentic local ambiance, and a small-group experience that feels personal rather than touristy.
If you’re looking for an efficient day trip that covers the essential sights and offers just enough free time to explore at your own pace, this tour hits the mark. The inclusion of boat rides and expert guides ensures you’ll come away with memorable photos and stories to share.
How long is the ferry ride from Sorrento to Capri?
The ferry takes approximately 20-30 minutes, providing a quick and scenic crossing across the Bay of Naples.
What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a shared boat ride around Capri, transport by shuttle bus to Anacapri, and free time at the main square. The chairlift to Monte Solaro is optional and not included.
Is the boat ride comfortable?
Most reviews highlight the boat ride as enjoyable and informative, with plenty of space and good views. Remember to bring sunscreen and water for comfort.
Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
No, this specific tour does not mention visiting the Blue Grotto. It focuses on sea grottos like the Green, White, and Red Grottos.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for the day.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs might find it challenging due to walking and terrain.
How much does the chairlift cost?
The chairlift to Monte Solaro is an extra expense, not included in the tour price. It’s well worth considering for the stunning panoramic views.
What is the group size?
Being a small group tour, it typically offers a more intimate experience, enhancing interaction with guides and fellow travelers.
Is this tour flexible?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans change.
In short, this tour provides a practical, scenic, and culturally rich way to enjoy Capri from Sorrento. Whether you’re after stunning views, charming streets, or simply a hassle-free day on the water, it offers solid value wrapped in a well-organized package.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Marina Piccola
- Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri from Amalfi
- Boat Tour to Capri with Lunch on Board, Swimming and Fun
- Capri Sharing Boat Tour from Sorrento & Limoncello Tasting
- Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri from Praiano
- Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano/Praiano
- Positano: Capri and Blue Grotto Shared Boat Tour With Drinks
More Tour Reviews in Marina Piccola
- Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri from Amalfi
- Boat Tour to Capri with Lunch on Board, Swimming and Fun
- From Sorrento: Capri Island Boat Day Trip With Transfer
- Capri Sharing Boat Tour from Sorrento & Limoncello Tasting
- Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri from Praiano
- Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano/Praiano
Looking for something different? Other Marina Piccola activities we've written about
- Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri from Amalfi
- From Sorrento: Capri Land and Sea Small Group Tour
- Boat Tour to Capri with Lunch on Board, Swimming and Fun
- From Sorrento: Capri Island Boat Day Trip With Transfer
- Capri Sharing Boat Tour from Sorrento & Limoncello Tasting
- Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri from Praiano
- Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano/Praiano
- Marina Piccola: Tour of the Island
- Positano: Capri and Blue Grotto Shared Boat Tour With Drinks
- From Positano: Sail to Capris Stunning Beauty
- Capri: Private Boat Tour
- Capri : Private Tour of the Island