Capri: Beyond the Postcard
Capri is one of those destinations you hear about endlessly, but it doesn’t fully make sense until you’re there. The moment you step off the boat, catch the breeze off the sea, and take in the candy-colored buildings clinging to dramatic cliffs, it all comes together. This famous island in the Tyrrhenian Sea is where old-world elegance blends effortlessly with contemporary glamour. In this guide, I’m highlighting four of Capri’s most exceptional hotels—La Palma, Jumeirah Capri Palace, JK Place, and Tiberio Palace—each offering its own take on elevated, personalized luxury. But the magic of Capri isn’t limited to its stunning stays. I’ll show you how to soak up the island’s iconic dolce vita through unforgettable experiences and three standout restaurants that define its culinary charm. And one tip from personal experience: arrive by private boat. It’s the only way to feel Capri’s dramatic welcome the way it was meant to be felt
Hotel Spotlights
My selection of Capri's finest properties, each offering a distinct facet of island luxury:
La Palma
The Property: Capri’s very first hotel, established in 1822, La Palma has been meticulously reimagined as an Oetker Collection 5-star retreat. Its recent renovation by interior designer Francis Sultana seamlessly blends authentic Caprese heritage with sophisticated contemporary design, offering 50 rooms and suites—each a sanctuary of understated glamour.
Signature Suite: The Junior Suite with Private Terrace (538 sq ft) features a refreshing plunge pool, custom hand-painted Vietri tiles, and sweeping sea views—an idyllic setting for private moments.
Dining: La Capannina serves refined Campania classics, while Aldo’s Cocktail Bar & Seafood Grill offers freshly shucked oysters and expertly crafted negronis, best savored against a backdrop of golden sunsets.
Spa: Indulge in bespoke, sea-inspired treatments like the invigorating lemon-infused Amalfi Glow massage. A tranquil steam room and yoga deck provide serene spaces for rejuvenation.
Jumeirah Capri Palace
The Property: Perched in Anacapri, this iconic whitewashed resort is a haven of tranquility, featuring 67 rooms and suites, many boasting private pools and expansive terraces. Its impressive contemporary art collection and exclusive cliffside beach club elevate its distinct allure.
Signature Suite: The Paltrow Sea Side Pool Presidential Suite offers unparalleled top-floor luxury, defined by sleek design, opulent black marble bathrooms, and captivating sea panoramas.
Dining: L’Olivo, their two-Michelin-starred restaurant, presents a culinary journey with exquisite dishes like their signature lobster ravioli. For more casual elegance, Il Riccio offers panoramic dining, while aMaRe Capri delivers authentic, legendary pizzas by Franco Pepe.
Spa: The renowned Capri Medical Spa focuses on holistic wellness with highly personalized programs, including advanced detox and aesthetic treatments.
JK Place Capri
The Property: A true boutique masterpiece nestled above Marina Grande, JK Place Capri offers just 22 rooms and suites characterized by classical elegance and modern comfort. Its strategic location near the port and funicular provides effortless access for island exploration.
Signature Suite: The Terrace Suite is an inviting retreat, complete with a private terrace that frames captivating sea views—ideal for a tranquil morning espresso or a vibrant evening aperitif.
Dining: JKitchen serves a creative interpretation of Mediterranean dishes, emphasizing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients for an authentic taste of the island.
Spa: The J.K. Spa provides a serene escape, offering signature treatments like the revitalizing Capri Glow facial, crafted with local botanicals for a truly indigenous experience.
Tiberio Palace
The Property: Located in the very heart of Capri Town, this 5-star boutique hotel masterfully blends contemporary chic with retro design elements. Its 46 rooms and suites offer expansive Mediterranean vistas, and its proximity to the Piazzetta and elite boutiques is simply unparalleled.
Signature Suite: The Sea View Suite exemplifies sophisticated comfort with a thoughtfully curated color palette, a private terrace, and uninterrupted views stretching across the Mediterranean.
Dining: Terrazza Tiberio offers an elevated take on Mediterranean cuisine, while the chic bar is the perfect setting for expertly mixed cocktails against a stunning backdrop.
Spa: The Tiberio Spa invites profound relaxation with treatments like the Mediterranean Sea Salt massage, complemented by a rejuvenating sauna and serene relaxation area.
What to Do in Capri
Capri is about embracing the essence of "la dolce vita." Here's how to experience the island, enhanced with a few insider considerations:
Wander the Piazzetta: This vibrant square, the undisputed heart of Capri, is perfect for sipping a coffee or aperitivo. For the best people-watching as the island's stylish crowd gathers, aim for the late afternoon into early evening.
Explore the Gardens of Augustus: Take a leisurely stroll through these iconic panoramic gardens. You'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the legendary Faraglioni rock formations and the picturesque Marina Piccola.
Ascend Monte Solaro by Chairlift: Journey to Capri's highest point for truly expansive views. From the summit, the sweeping panoramas of the Gulf of Naples and the distant Amalfi Coast are beautiful.
Hike the Sentiero dei Forti: For active explorers, this scenic coastal trail offers dramatic views and a fun way to connect with Capri's rugged, untamed beauty.
Visit Villa Jovis: Delve into history at the impressive ruins of Emperor Tiberius's ancient villa. The sheer scale and historical elements are profound, offering striking island perspectives.
Circumnavigate the Island by Boat: This is, quite simply, an essential Capri experience. Witnessing the mystical Blue Grotto, the majestic Faraglioni, and the intricate coastal wonders from the water is pure magic. My discerning advice? Opt for a private yacht. It allows your to discover secluded coves at your own pace, and enjoy a truly personal journey.
Shop in Capri Town: Indulge in curated retail therapy. Capri Town is home to exquisite luxury boutiques showcasing the finest Italian fashion, bespoke leather goods, and unique handcrafted ceramics.
Three Must-Visit Restaurants
Here are three establishments that genuinely capture the island's essence, from Michelin-starred artistry to beloved local institutions:
L'Olivo at Jumeirah Capri Palace: This two-Michelin-starred restaurant is a true culinary highlight, offering a refined exploration of Mediterranean cuisine. Expect exquisite dishes like their renowned lobster ravioli or delicate sea bass with Amalfi lemon sauce.
Da Gelsomina: Celebrated for its spectacular clifftop views and exquisitely fresh seafood, this is the authentic choice for savoring classic Caprese flavors. Pro tip: reserve a table on the terrace well in advance for sunset – the light and atmosphere are unparalleled. Their spaghetti with sea urchin is a local favorite.
Aurora: A perennially romantic spot, Aurora features a lovely terrace overlooking the sea. While their grilled octopus and homemade pastas are great, a true connoisseur knows to ask for their "pizza all'acqua" – a remarkably light and unique Capri specialty that you won't find just anywhere.
Ready to Plan Your Escape?
Capri's allure is undeniable, and opportunities at these exclusive properties are highly sought-after, filling quickly. If you're envisioning dramatic cliffs, sapphire waters, and an effortlessly chic 'dolce vita' experience, now is the moment to act. Email me at Mark@MDTraveling.com, and let's transform your Capri dream into an exquisitely tailored reality.
