Capri

Photo: The Marina Grande (main port) on the Isle of Capri, Italy.

Overview

Capri, with its fragrant hills, plunging views, shimmering coves, lush Mediterranean and sub-tropical vegetation is Italy's Garden of Eden but to the ancient Greeks it was just another rocky island named Caprea (meaning island of goats).

Emperor Augustus was Capri's first enthusiast. In 29AD he traded Ischia to the Greek colony of Naples in exchange for it. He called it Apragòpoli (the city of the dolce far niente, literally "sweet doing nothing"). He had several villas built there as well as some small temples dedicated to the cult of the Nymphs. His successor, Tiberius, who ruled the Roman Empire from here for 10 years at the age of 68, left a greater mark by constructing his favourite cliff-hanging retreat on top of Mount Tiberio, 354 meters above sea level, Villa Jovis, which is a miracle of Roman architecture.

In 1931 this popular island built its first proper port, Marina Grande. From here it's a short ride in the funicular up to Capri town, the hub of which is the little square with outdoor cafés known as the Piazzetta. The Certosa di San Giacomo was founded in 1374 and is Capri's medieval jewel. It was built, with no expense spared, in 1374 by Count Giacomo Arcucci of Capri in gratitude for the birth of a son.

If you are wanting fun nights out then Capri won't let you down. It is home to numerous wine bars, lounge bars and restaurants where you can listen to some traditional Neapolitan music sipping delicious local wines. Although Capri has a reputation for being a retreat for the jet-set, the island's hotels and restaurants are no more expensive than Rome, Florence or Venice.