I have read the previous threads on the island of Capri, but still wonder if anyone can help me out. My husband and I will be staying on the island for just 2 days in mid September 2005, so I want to be sure we sample the true Capri, but have a good time and relax a little too. I have had difficulty deciding between staying in the town of Capri or Anacapri. Based on some previous threads and other research I've done, it appears some people feel that Capri is very expensive, and in some cases, "snobby". But it also sounds very sophisticated, which is also nice. Then Anacapri has been described as more off the beaten path, more local, which sounds great too. My husband and I enjoy people watching, but don't want to feel out of our element either (Capri). But we also want to perhaps enjoy some nightlife, which we aren't sure exists in Capri or Anacapri anyway, but no big deal. We'd like to do some hiking too, which I've heard is great all over the island. Again we want to relax a little also. I guess what I really want to know is if anyone else has opinions about the general atmosphere of both Capri and Anacapri, and what there is to do in both places (besides the hiking and great views!) Please help!!

It's great you've decided to actually stay in Capri, rather than making it a day trip. My brother just got back to NYC after an Amalfi Coast trip with friends who've never been to Italy. They daytripped to Capri and all agreed afterwards they'd have been better off spending a night or two. The island changes character after the hordes have left in the late afternoon.

I'd suggest you go ahead and stay in Capri, since you're only there for two nights.

Capri is 'sophisticated' but I don't think you'll find it 'snobby.' Yes, there are beautiful people wandering around, but you'll get that in any number of Italian resort towns. Just dress up a bit at night and you'll fit right in. It's fun to stroll the streets at night, watching the people and stopping for a drink or a gelato at whatever bar catches your fancy. There are photographers who work the piazzetta -- they'll take your picture as you stroll then hand you a card -- hoping you'll go by the shop later and buy a picture. That's actually kind of fun. A nice place to stop is the terrace bar at the Quisisana where you can nurse a drink for pretty much as long as you wish. It's just a cool scene.

I've been to Anacapri but never at night. It doesn't have quite the polish of Capri but is still very much worth a visit. I really don't think you can "go wrong" with either town but still recommend you stay in Capri.

Last week when my bro and his group visited Capri, they hired a cab for the day for 100 euros to tour the island (split between four people it wasn't so bad). The driver, a third-generation cabby there (who drove taxi number 1!) made a great tour guide who showed them some hidden nooks and crannies, including the villa owned by Keanu Reeves. He knew everyone and when they got to Anacapri to ride the lift to the top of Monte Solaro, the driver got them right to the front of the line. Something to consider when you visit in September. Have fun!

Thanks for the details on Capri. I think we've decided to stay in Capri as it sounds like the right place for us. I suppose we'd probably have a fabulous time in either place, but we'll take your advice. We're very excited for our trip in general, as this is our first time to Italy!! We decided to stay a couple nights in Capri because we'd heard from everyone NOT to do just a daytrip, not only because the locals aren't especially appreciative, but because we thought we'd get a better idea of what the area was like and plus RELAX a little. Thanks again for the reply, it was very helpful.

I completely agree with everything cobblehill stated about Capri. You will have a wonderful time. It's beautiful.

If there is a huge line to buy tickets for the funicular to get up to your hotel when you arrive, just take a cab. It is not far and was under 10 euro and saved us a lot of time. As your hotel if they have a porter at the dock. Most of them do. They take your luggage from you and send it up to the hotel so you don't have to lug it around town en route to your hotel.