Capri is one of those places that you always hear about and it sounds so exotic (like Ibiza or Bali) but it didn't even really click in my mind where we were going until we arrived! The time of year and super overcast day certainly threw off our expectations (the intense blue waters weren't quite as blue as usual) but it is still every bit as beautiful and special as you've always heard!
We started the day with a ferry ride from Sorrento and then upon arrival at Capri, we immediately boarded a small boat to tour around the island- spotting a few celebrity homes along the way. Oh did I mention that Capri is a hotspot for celebrities? Weddings, vacations, even movie filming! Blake Lively & Anna Kendrick were filming "Another Simple Favor 2" while we were there and had taken over the Grand Hotel Quisisana which sits right in the middle of everything. Most of the restaurants and shops have pinboards outside their door with faded photos of all the famous people who have stepped over their threshold in years past. Honestly, I am the last person to know who's who and highly doubt I'd even recognize if I bumped shoulders with any celebrities!
Once you dock in the marina and take the Funicular to the top of the island, you are afforded gorgeous panoramic views! The city center is home to shops for all the top designers + some traditional Italian touristy gift shops but as soon as you wander away from all of that, you'll discover quiet paths that wind their way up and down and around the island neighborhoods. So many magical little corners and vignettes at every turn! Modified tiny trucks (one person wide) carry construction materials, luggage, groceries and more up the narrow paths to the homes at the outskirts of the island.
It was so fun to step beyond the heart of tourism and find the little nooks and crannies inhabited by the locals who live on the island. Tiny butcher shops and book stores, a little grocery and wine bar. My favorite find of the day was a shop full of original miniatures painted by an older gentleman who sat behind his counter working on a fresh set of new pieces. Of course I snagged one! I would love to experience Capri again one day with sunshine & blue skies- I think it would be simply magical!
