Travelling from Salerno to Capri: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Embarking on a journey from Salerno to Capri offers travellers a spectacular transition from mainland Italy to one of the Mediterranean's most enchanting islands. This popular route spans approximately 36 miles (58 km) across the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about ferry services, port facilities, island attractions, and seasonal considerations to ensure your Salerno to Capri adventure is seamless and memorable.

Taking the ferry from Salerno to Capri

The ferry connection between Salerno and Capri is serviced by two reliable operators: Alicost and NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo). These companies offer a combined total of 2 daily sailings, with journey times ranging from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, averaging around 1 hour 43 minutes. The earliest departure from Salerno sets sail at 07:40, while the latest leaves at 08:40, making morning departures ideal for day-trippers.

Both Alicost and NLG accommodate foot passengers and vehicles, providing flexibility for travellers with different needs. If you're travelling with pets, NLG offers pet-friendly services, allowing your furry companions to join the adventure. Onboard amenities typically include comfortable seating areas, refreshment options, and outdoor deck space to enjoy the stunning coastal views and sea breeze during your journey across the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Salerno)

Salerno's ferry terminal is conveniently located near the city centre at Molo Manfredi. The port is easily accessible by local buses or a short taxi ride from Salerno train station. The terminal offers basic facilities including ticket offices, waiting areas, and nearby cafés where you can grab refreshments before boarding.

Arrival Port (Capri)

Ferries from Salerno typically arrive at Marina Grande, Capri's main harbour. From here, the funicular railway offers a scenic ascent to Capri Town, or you can take local buses to other parts of the island. The port area features restaurants, shops, and tourist information points to help orient new arrivals.

Things to Do in Capri

Capri offers a wealth of attractions that blend natural beauty with historical significance:

Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)

This mesmerising sea cave is famous for its brilliant blue waters created by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity. Accessible only by small rowboats, the experience of entering this luminous cavern is truly magical.

Villa San Michele

Located in Anacapri, this stunning villa was built by Swedish physician Axel Munthe and features beautiful gardens and a museum housing his collection of classical artefacts, all with panoramic views.

Monte Solaro

Reach Capri's highest point via chairlift from Anacapri for breathtaking 360-degree views of the island, the Bay of Naples, and the distant Amalfi Coast.

Gardens of Augustus

These beautifully manicured botanical gardens offer spectacular vistas of the iconic Faraglioni rock formations and Marina Piccola bay.

Via Krupp

This historic switchback paved footpath carved into the island's south coast connects the Gardens of Augustus to Marina Piccola, offering stunning sea views along its winding route.

Weather in Capri

Capri enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 25-30°C, while winter averages 8-15°C. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures between 15-25°C with moderate rainfall, creating ideal conditions for exploring the island's outdoor attractions.

Best Time to Visit Capri

The optimal time to visit Capri is during the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October. During these months, you'll enjoy warm, sunny days perfect for swimming and exploring, but with significantly fewer crowds than the peak summer season of July and August when the island becomes extremely busy with tourists.

Spring brings blooming wildflowers and gardens, making it particularly scenic for nature lovers. The annual Capri Film Festival in late April adds cultural interest. In autumn, the sea remains warm enough for swimming while the summer crowds disperse, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

Winter offers a completely different experience, with many establishments closed and reduced ferry services, but provides a unique opportunity to see Capri at its most authentic and peaceful. The Christmas period brings festive decorations and local celebrations that provide insight into island traditions.

Accommodation Options in Capri

After arriving in Capri via the convenient ferry from Salerno, you'll need a comfortable place to stay. The island offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

For budget-conscious travellers, guesthouses and B&Bs in Capri Town provide affordable options while keeping you close to the main attractions. Solo travellers might enjoy the sociable atmosphere of smaller family-run establishments where local insights are readily shared.

Couples seeking romance will find boutique hotels with stunning sea views, particularly around Marina Grande and Anacapri. Families typically prefer the larger hotels with swimming pools and dedicated children's activities, many offering spacious rooms or connecting options.

Booking ahead is essential, especially during the peak summer season when prices can vary significantly. Consider staying in Anacapri for a more authentic and less crowded experience at slightly lower rates.

Getting Around Capri

Capri is wonderfully compact, making it easy to explore without a vehicle. The island's efficient bus network connects Marina Grande (where ferries from Salerno arrive) with Capri Town and Anacapri, with services running approximately every 15-20 minutes during peak season.

Open-top taxis are a scenic albeit pricier option, offering customised island tours with drivers who often serve as unofficial guides. For the adventurous, renting scooters provides flexibility to discover hidden corners of the island, though the winding roads require confident driving skills.

Walking is perhaps the most rewarding way to experience Capri's charm, with numerous scenic footpaths connecting major attractions. The famous Phoenician Steps (Scala Fenicia) between Capri Town and Anacapri offer breathtaking views for those willing to climb the 921 steps.

Most of Capri Town is pedestrianised, making on-foot exploration both practical and enjoyable as you wander through narrow lanes lined with boutiques and cafés.

Plan Your Perfect Island Escape

The Salerno to Capri ferry route offers an ideal gateway to one of Italy's most enchanting islands. With just a 1h 30m journey at its quickest, you can easily transition from mainland Italy to island paradise. Both Alicost and NLG operate reliable services with multiple daily sailings, accommodating foot passengers, vehicles, and even your furry friends.

Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, the ferry journey itself becomes part of your Mediterranean adventure, offering spectacular coastline views as you approach Capri's dramatic cliffs.

Ready to experience the magic of Capri? Book your ferry tickets now to secure your preferred sailing time and begin your island adventure with ease and comfort.