Amalfi Coast vs. Capri: Which Is Better to Visit?
Europe has many island paradises that promise pristine sunlight, mild temperatures, and a glamorous getaway when the tropics’ heat is too much. And in today’s Amalfi Coast vs. Capri comparison, we declare a winner!
The Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri off the coast of Italy are two examples of tranquil Mediterranean escapades that accomplish the same goal of fulfilling a European island vacation, but which is better?
Both the Amalfi Coast and Capri Island offer great ways to experience seaside excursions in a Mediterranean environment. It is worth pointing out that the Amalfi Coast may be the better option since this allows you to take day trips to Capri without being secluded on an island.
| Category | Amalfi Coast | Capri |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Range for 1 Week | S1,981 | $2,030 |
| Main Attractions | Sorrento, Positano, Praiano, Maiori, Grotta Dello Smeraldo Cave, Valle Delle Ferriere | Marina Piccola, Blue Grotto, Gardens of Augustus, Villa San Michele, Monte Solaro |
| Food | The Amalfi Coast features some of the finest examples of Italian seafood with several elegant restaurants. | The island of Capri features some of the finest examples of Italian seafood with several elegant restaurants. |
| Weather | The Amalfi Coast features a Mediterranean climate with warm and moist summers and mild and dry winters. | The island of Capri features a Mediterranean climate with warm and moist summers and mild and dry winters. |
| Safety | The Amalfi Coast is generally safe in terms of crime. | The island of Capri is generally safe in terms of crime. |
| Transportation | Car, motorcycle, and scooter rentals are available as well as buses and ferries. | Car, motorcycle, and scooter rentals are available as well as buses and ferries. |
| Customs | The Amalfi Coast is part of Italy which requires a valid passport and a visa if you will be staying longer than 90 days. | The island of Capri is part of Italy which requires a valid passport and a visa if you will be staying longer than 90 days. |
Overview: Capri Vs. Amalfi Coast
It is not easy to compare the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri since both destinations share many of the same general attributes.
The Amalfi Coast is larger with more towns and areas to explore, but Capri offers an idyllic seaside escape, where solitude is much easier to find.
This article will explore each destination through various categories to help you make the best decision for your vacation.
Cost of Stay
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most sought-after destinations in terms of overall hotel reservations and vacations. A standard one-week vacation on the Amalfi Coast will typically cost about $1,981. You can save money along the Amalfi Coast by renting a car, a popular way of experiencing the seaside views. In reality, staying on the Amalfi Coast is pricey, but many visitors expect this due to the coast’s refreshing experience and beauty.
The island of Capri is virtually identical to the Amalfi Coast in terms of the overall price. A standard one week vacation on Capri will run about $2,030. Capri is slightly more expensive due to the island’s isolation and a smaller selection of places to stay. Daily expenses are about the same as what you will find on the Amalfi Coast, and transportation costs will generally not be as expensive on Capri.
Affordable Hotel Options
The Amalfi Coast is quite large and expansive; therefore, there are many hotel options to consider. Suppose you seek a budget option, the Hotel Lidomare is located in the City of Amalfi, and only a two-minute walk from the coast. This elegant and relaxing hotel has the feel of a charming family villa for an exceptionally affordable price, considering the prime location.
On Capri, Affordable hotel options are slightly limited compared to Amalfi; therefore, bed and breakfast is always a great option to consider. Capri Inn is located on the beach and only a short walk from the ferry. This bed and breakfast come with all the standard amenities found in most hotels and a complimentary breakfast with incredible beach views.
Main Attractions
There are many charming and idyllic towns along the Amalfi Coast to tour, yet one distinct attraction is a definite must-see on your trip, the Grotta Dello Smeraldo Cave. This unique cave is partially inundated with water and bathed in an incandescent hue of blue and emerald light that must be seen to be believed.
On Capri, the attractions outside of the alluring beaches are a bit minimal compared to Amalfi, yet the Gardens of Augustus is one attraction you should consider. Beautiful gardens litter the seaside landscape in this picaresque stretch of botanical gardens. This attraction is a perfect way to spend a day away from the beach if you want to explore more of the island.
Food
Along the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri, seafood with a quintessential Italian flare are the highlights of many restaurants. On the Amalfi Coast, Sensi Restaurant is one of the best examples of eateries that capture the true essence of Italian seafood. The menu here is diverse, with locally sourced ingredients and an upscale casual vibe. Be sure to make a reservation to avoid incredibly long waiting times.
The same food style is present on the island of Capri, with Bagni Tiberio being one of the most popular seafood eateries on the island. This popular restaurant sits nears the coast on a hill overlooking the bay and can only be reached by foot or boat. One of the most popular dishes is the seafood pasta with red wine, which brings all of the rustic flavors to life.
Weather
Both destinations feature near-perfect weather all year. The summer months are never too hot, only warm and slightly humid. Winters are mild and autumn-like in terms of cool nights instead of freezing cold. Flood and possible volcanic activity with rare tsunamis have occurred along the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri in the past; however, neither destination sees frequent activity in this regard. Therefore, there is no need to feel endangered.
Safety
Both destinations are generally safe. Crime rates are very low, with no major incidents of violent crime; therefore, you should be perfectly safe in either destination as long as you exercise a certain degree of basic caution. Always be mindful of possible encounters with petty theft and pickpocketing. Never leave your valuables unattended, and always lock doors to your hotel room when you leave.
Transportation
Boats and ferries are common on the island of Capri, whereas car rentals are the most popular way of traveling up and down the Amalfi Coast. Buses and taxis are also available in either destination, and many people simply enjoy walking or bicycling.
Customs
Vacationing in Italy is very accessible; all you will need is a valid passport. If you wish to stay in either Amalfi or Capri for longer than 3 months, you will need to apply for and get approval for a valid visa.
Conclusion: Amalfi Coast Vs. Capri
So, which is better between the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri? This question can only be decided if you are seeking to save a small amount of money; therefore, the Amalfi Coast is better. Both destinations offer the same ambiance and things to do in a tranquil and refreshing seaside setting.
You can always choose to stay along the Amalfi Coast and take an easy day trip to the island of Capri or vice versa. Either choice is perfect for a vacation.
