My Capri & Amalfi Coast Experience
The Amalfi Coast and Capri are two places that people hear of and fantasize about checking off their Italian bucket list. Are they worth the extra effort to get there?
Are Capri and the Amalfi Coast Worth Visiting?
Yes, Capri and the Amalfi Coast are worth visiting – but seeing both may not be necessary depending on what you’re after while on your trip to Italy.
I went to Italy in summer 2018 with a tour company I trust dearly (Expat Explore) and on that tour.
Where Should I Stay to Visit Capri and the Amalfi Coast?
We stayed two nights in Sorrento, otherwise known as the southern region of Italy that makes a great home base if you want to see the Amalfi Coast and Capri. As a bonus, if you want to eat the best Italian pizza, Sorrento is the place to do it – as this region of Italy is known for pizza.
Sorrento was in fact one of the best slices of pizza I had while in Italy.
Here was the rest of our Italy itinerary and where we stayed:
Margarita pizza in downtown Sorrento; July 2018
Is it worth Driving along the Amalfi Cosat?
Yes, driving along the Amalfi Coast is a must do when visiting this region of Italy.
On our Expat Explore Tour we had the option to get on a bus that drove us along the coast – and I’m sure you can ask your hotel for similar excursions.
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning drive, and a commanding view of the Italian seaside – but if you get motion sickness easily, I would pass on this one.
However, if you’re like me, and live for photos… do it.
View of Positano; July 2018
The Amalfi Coast looks like a painting, right?! And this is a no filter shot! It’s one of those things that you can’t believe it until you see it. There are tons of places to eat a meal around there and take in the view.
Why are there so many lemons in Sorrento, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast?
Historians believe that lemons have been growing in Sorrento since around the 16th century. The region can thank its warm and stable climate for its historically rich citrus bounty, as well as its fertile soil. The ground in Sorrento is mainly composed of limestone and old layers of lava from Mount Vesuvius.
Lemons are a huge in the Sorrento region. This is a result of the region’s warm climate and fertile soil, making it a conducive environment to harvest citrus. As a result, know that when you walk into gift shops – you’re going to see a lot of yellow-themed-souvenirs.
Still, walk around – there are cute shops and things to scope out. But I really think you come here to take pictures and enjoy the scenery.
Next, we have Capri.
Which is better: Capri or the Amalfi Coast?
Capri and the Amalfi Coast may be close in distance, but in terms of atmosphere and views – they are worlds apart. Think of Capri in the same sense of Moncao or Mykonos, upscale, known for shopping, and manicured. The Amalfi Coast, on the other hand, is more rugged, scenic beauty – more catered for family vacations, casual meals, and low-key beach outings.
The table below will break down some of the additional differences between Capri and the Amalfi Coast:
| Capri | Amalfi Coast | |
|---|---|---|
| Views & Scenery | Manicured streets, vivid florals, and colorful beachfronts perfect for aesthetics. | Casual beachgoers, families, and rugged rolling Italian hills. |
| Cost | Infinitely more expensive; best for luxury travelers. | More budget-friendly; ideal for families or budget travelers. |
| Excursions | Best for wandering, upscale shopping, and strolling scenic streets. | Best for speed boats, affordable souvenir shopping, and coastal exploration. |
| Environment | Distinctly upscale and elegant — great for a chic getaway. | More laid-back and family-oriented, with a local charm. |
I’ll be honest… I kind of liked Capri, better.
Again, I’m photo-and-view goal oriented, and Capri was more… colorful?
In Capri, you’ll have these vibrant warm colored flowers surrounding the greenery, the picturesque, sleek white house’s sitting on the hills, the playfully painted houses residing on the beach…
View of Capri near the ferry area; July 2018
It’s really stunning; especially in the midst of summertime when everyone is taking their holiday in Capri. There are a lot of cute clothing shops around here, so if you’re into that – take advantage.
Something I only learned about the day before going to Capri, is that to get to all of the high-end shopping, fancy hotels, and scenic restaurants… you have to take a funicular, or a cable car, up to Ana Capri.
What is the difference between Capri and Ana Capri?
Basically, Ana Capri is still Capri – but on a higher elevation and more secluded from Capri itself, and it’s where most of the sightseeing is for those taking the ferry for the day to Capri.
Ana Capri is where you want to eat, do the most shopping, and take a tour of the island by car if you wish. Honestly, my mom and I didn’t do much here. We went for a few hours from Sorrento via ferry to see it, but I’m glad that we did.
View of from Ana Capri; July 2018
There are lots of tourist opportunities: trails and personal tours you could take… or, you do what we did: take some pictures, grab a bite, and go exploring around the heart of it all.
Veggie Goodies in Capri; July 2018
While in the Sorrento Region, be sure to try a Limencello Granita!
Which One Should I visit: Capri or the Amalfi Coast?
The bottom line is, if you want views and a scenic lunch date – you’ll be sure to get them from both the Amalfi Coast or Capri. Amalfi Coast is more of a rustic, raw beauty, whereas Capri is more of an upscale, chic & colorful one.
You can stay the night in either, but I recommend staying in Sorrento and to visit these places as day trips to save some money for future traveling.
Just be prepared that being on those busses en route to the ferry is the epitome of the saying, “sardines in a can”. It’s a guarantee that you’ll be hot, sweaty, and holding your personal belongings close.
Or, maybe you’re down for the whole immersive experience – go for it. It all depends on what you’re looking to get out of visiting these places, and I hoped this blog post gave a glimpse as to what they’re both like!
If you’re looking for additional advice on traveling in Italy advice, I’ve been all over that country, so click here.
Last updated: May 29, 2025