My Capri & Amalfi Coast Experience — Destination Dreamer Diaries

Two places that people hear of and fantasize about checking off their Italian bucket list. Are they worth the extra effort to get there?

I will tell you right now:

Yes – but seeing both may not be necessary depending on what you’re after.

I went to Italy last summer with a tour company I trust dearly (Expat Explore) and on that tour, we stayed two nights in Sorrento; otherwise known as the southern region of Italy that makes a great home base if you’re wanting to see the Amalfi Coast and Capri… and also, if you want to eat their pizza; which was one of the best slices I had while in Italy.

Margarita pizza in downtown Sorrento; July 2018

On expat, 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.

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.

They were really into lemons in the Sorrento region. So, know that when you walk into gift shops – you’re going to see a lot of yellow-like-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.

I’ll be honest… I kind of liked Capri, better.

Again, I’m photo-and-view goal oriented, and Capri was more… colorful?

You 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 there. 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.

Basically, Ana Capri is still Capri – but on a higher elevation.

It’s where most of the sightseeing is.

This 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.

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.

While in the Sorrento Region, be sure to try a Limencello Granita!

Bottom line, 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 coin.

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 other Italy advice, I’ve been all over that country, so click here.