Capri Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication on Capri

Capri offers various options for mobile connectivity and web access.

Mobile Connectivity & Wi-Fi

Local SIM Cards: TIM, Vodafone Italia, WindTre, Iliad. Passport needed for registration. Tourist SIM plans exist.
ESIM Options: For convenience, consider using an eSIM if your phone supports it. Check Airalo for options.
Internet Access: Hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi hotspots could exist in some areas. For portable Wi-Fi, consider Solis Wi-Fi.

Language & Important Phrases

While English is common in tourist areas, a few Italian phrases are appreciated.

Phrases & Translation Resources

English: Widely spoken in tourist-facing businesses. Less so in smaller local shops.
Translation Resources: Google Translate app for offline use and camera translation. An Italian phrasebook is beneficial (e.g., from Amazon).
For language learning, Rosetta Stone is an option.

Helpful Italian Phrases

Attempting even a few Italian words is appreciated by locals.

Common Greetings and Questions

Hello (formal/informal): Buongiorno (Bwon-jor-noh) / Ciao (Chow)
Goodbye: Arrivederci (Ah-ree-veh-der-chee) / Ciao (Chow)
Do you speak English?: Parli inglese? (PAR-lee een-GLEH-zeh?)

Everyday Interactions

Basic phrases for polite conversations and transactions.

Essential Phrases

Please: Per favore (Pehr fah-VOH-reh)
Thank you: Grazie (GRAHT-see-eh)
How much?: Quanto costa? (KWAHN-toh KOH-stah?)

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Shops: Often 9:00/10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, then 4:00/5:00 PM - 7:30/8:00 PM.
Restaurants: Lunchtime 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM. Dinner 7:30 PM onwards.
Supermarkets: Typically 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM.
Pharmacies: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, then 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM. Rotating 24-hour service available.

Banking, Holidays & Seasons

Banks: Typically 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM, limited afternoon hours. ATMs available 24/7.
Holidays: Many businesses close on religious and public holidays (e.g., Easter Monday, Ferragosto).
Low Season (Nov-March): Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators close entirely or have reduced hours.
High Season (June-August): All businesses typically operate at full capacity with longer hours.

Seasonal Awareness

Capri's operating hours and services vary greatly by season. Confirm schedules during shoulder or low season travel.

Etiquette & Accessibility

Greeting Customs

Use "Buongiorno" (good day) or "Buonasera" (good evening). "Ciao" is informal. A simple "Grazie" (thank you) is always polite.

Appropriate Attire

Cover shoulders and knees in churches. Smart casual for mid-range dining, dressier for fine dining. Avoid swimwear outside beach areas.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory if "servizio" (service charge) is on the bill. If not, rounding up or a few Euros is common. Espresso is the post-meal coffee.

Photography & Etiquette

Respect local privacy and limitations when taking photos.

Guidelines for Photography

Generally permissible in public areas.
Ask permission before close-up shots of people.
Flash photography may be prohibited in museums or churches.

Sensitive Topics & General Conduct

Be mindful of cultural subtleties and social norms.

Social Considerations

Avoid discussing politics or religion unless initiated by locals and approached with sensitivity.
Avoid public displays of excessive loudness or boisterous behavior.
Italy is generally tolerant. Public displays of affection for all couples are generally accepted.

Accessibility Information for Capri

Infrastructure Challenges

Capri's hills with a steep incline, numerous steps, and narrow cobblestone streets present challenges for mobility.
Many historical sites and scenic viewpoints involve stairs or uneven terrain.
Small public buses on Capri are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Accessible Options & Considerations

The funicular to Capri Town can accommodate some wheelchairs.
Entry into the Blue Grotto requires transferring into very small rowing boats.
Always contact hotels and attractions directly to confirm specific accessibility features.

Navigating Capri's Terrain

Capri's unique topography creates its charm but can present challenges. Plan routes that match your mobility.

Additional Practical Information

Essential details for a smooth and comfortable visit to Capri, covering various aspects of travel convenience.

Airport Services

Optimize your airport experience with convenient services.

Enhance Your Airport Journey

Airport Lounge Access: Priority Pass provides independent airport lounge access globally.
Flight Compensation: Compensair helps obtain compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
Baggage Services: Look for luggage storage or porter services at major transit hubs.

Money & Banking on Capri

Accessing funds and handling transactions on the island.

Financial Convenience

ATMs (Bancomat): Widely available 24/7 in Capri Town and Anacapri for cash availability.
Credit Cards: Most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops accept major credit cards.
Cash: Useful for smaller purchases, local markets, or some very small establishments.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Embrace the local culture with respectful interactions and practices.

Cultural Respect

Religious Sites: Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Maintain low voices.
Politeness: Patience and politeness are appreciated, especially during busy times.
Coffee Culture: Order espresso after meals, not cappuccino, to align with local custom.

Postal Services on Capri

Sending postcards or packages from the island.

Sending Mail from Capri

Post offices ("Poste Italiane") are available in Capri Town and Anacapri.
Look for the yellow "Poste Italiane" sign for official post office locations.
Services for sending postcards and packages are available.

Emergency Contacts & Advisories

Important Numbers

Emergency Services (General): 112 (European emergency number)
Fire Department: 115
Medical Emergency: 118

Safety Tips

Guard personal belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Stay hydrated, especially during summer months.
Use sun protection to prevent sunburn.

Local Transportation Tips

Getting Around the Island

Public Buses: Small and frequent, connecting Capri Town, Anacapri, Marina Grande, and other points.
Taxis: Readily available, but more expensive. Fixed rates for common routes.
Funicular: Connects Marina Grande (port) to Capri Town.

Island Hopping & Mainland Travel

Ferries/Hydrofoils: Frequent connections to Naples and Sorrento. Seasonal services to Amalfi Coast towns and Ischia.
Purchase tickets in advance, especially during high season.
Check schedules for last departures, especially for the return journey trips.

Prepared for Your Journey

With these practical insights, you'll feel well-prepared for an enjoyable and trouble-free visit to Capri, from staying connected to navigating its distinct charm.

Sustainable Travel in Capri

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