Three things without which no Capri visit is complete: an aperitivo at the Piazzetta (arrive by 6pm for a table, dress up slightly, order a Spritz or local white), handmade-to-order leather sandals from Canfora or Antonio Viva, and a tasting of genuine artisanal limoncello made from Capri lemons.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Three experiences that define Capri. The Piazzetta aperitivo: from 6pm the day-trippers are gone, the island's residents emerge, and the tiny Piazza Umberto I becomes a fashion show and social theater. Dress up slightly (this is Italy, this is Capri); order a Spritz or local Fiano white from one of the four ring of café tables; watch the procession. Handmade sandals: Capri has been making bespoke leather sandals since the 1950s when the world's actors and aristocrats all came here. Canfora on Via Camerelle (since 1946, Jackie Kennedy was a customer) or Antonio Viva at Marina Grande will make sandals to your foot's exact measurements while you explore — ready the same afternoon. Limoncello: Capri's lemons (sfusato caprese) are among the finest in Italy; genuine limoncello made from them (versus the industrial version sold at tourist shops) is something different entirely — ask your hotel concierge for where to buy the artisanal version.
What Stands Out
- Piazzetta aperitivo — arrive by 6pm as day-trippers depart
- The great social theater of Italy in miniature
- Handmade leather sandals made to measure — Canfora (since 1946, worn by Jackie Kennedy) or Antonio Viva
- Ready the same afternoon
- Artisanal limoncello from sfusato caprese lemons
- Ask your hotel concierge for genuine producers
- Three experiences that define Capri