Capri Luxury Hotels: From Piazzetta to Anacapri
The Truth About Capri’s Luxury Hotels
When it comes to Capri’s luxurious accommodations, the common misconception is that they all offer a similar experience of upscale living and breathtaking views. However, the secret lies in their unique offerings: from Le Corbusier-designed architecture to contemporary art museums within hotel walls, each property presents a distinctive narrative. The real allure of these hotels isn’t just in their luxury but in how they encapsulate the essence of Capri while providing an unmatched level of personalized service and exclusive amenities. Whether perched 1,000 feet above the Bay of Naples in tranquil Anacapri or steps from the fashionable Piazzetta, these seven verified properties represent the pinnacle of Italian hospitality.
Understanding the Landscape
Capri, an island steeped in mythology and history, has long been a beacon for the sophisticated traveller. The island divides into two distinct luxury zones: the glamorous town of Capri itself, home to the legendary Via Camerelle with its high-end boutiques and vibrant nightlife, and the quieter heights of Anacapri, where clifftop properties offer unparalleled panoramas and serene seclusion. These establishments are not mere places to stay; they are institutions that have hosted royalty, celebrities, and literary giants from Oscar Wilde to Hemingway, offering a glimpse into the dolce vita of the Italian Riviera. The architectural styles range from 19th-century sanatoriums transformed into grand hotels to modernist villas designed by Le Corbusier, with each building telling a story of its inception and evolution, often intertwined with Capri’s cultural and social milestones.
The Essential Selection
– Price: €1,200/night
– Perched 1,000 feet above the Bay of Naples on Mount Solaro’s slopes, this Relais & Châteaux property offers what many consider the most spectacular views in the Mediterranean. The iconic double-level infinity pool creates the optical illusion of merging with the sea below. All 56 rooms feature unique designs with Mediterranean terracotta floors and antique furniture, while La Terrazza di Lucullo restaurant serves cliff-edge dining using ingredients from the on-site organic garden.
– Best season: May to September
– Insider tip: Request a “Sea View Cliff Side” room specifically for the postcard-worthy views. The terrace bar is considered Capri’s finest sunset spot, but gentlemen must wear long trousers after evening. Book the complimentary port shuttle 72 hours in advance.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €1,150/night
– Nestled in Anacapri, the Capri Palace Jumeirah stands out with its exceptional art collection, including an authentic Giorgio De Chirico painting “Ettore e Andromaca” (1960) in the reception and over 100 contemporary works in the “White Museum,” featuring pieces by Arnaldo Pomodoro and Mimmo Paladino. The hotel boasts 3 Michelin stars across two restaurants: L’Olivo (2 stars, Capri’s only two-starred restaurant) and Il Riccio Beach Club (1 star, near the Blue Grotto). The award-winning Capri Medical Spa features the proprietary “Leg School” therapeutic program.
– Best season: April to October
– Insider tip: Il Riccio is often called “the world’s only Michelin-starred beach club.” Book early as it’s popular with non-guests too. The hotel offers private boat tours around the island that shouldn’t be missed.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €800/night
– Capri’s largest and most storied hotel, founded in 1845 as a sanatorium (the name means “here one heals”), sits directly on fashionable Via Camerelle, steps from the Piazzetta. The property offers 150 rooms, two swimming pools including a large infinity pool, the QuisiBeauty Spa, and an Art Nouveau theater designed by legendary architect Giò Ponti in 1929. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, past guests include Hemingway, Oscar Wilde, Tom Cruise, and the Kennedy family.
– Best season: May to September
– Insider tip: The Quisi Bar terrace on Via Camerelle is the island’s most iconic aperitivo spot for people-watching. Book well in advance for peak summer months as this is Capri’s social hub.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €1,100/night
– An intimate 22-room boutique property and one of Capri’s only hotels built directly on the coastline, overlooking Marina Grande harbor. Designed by architect Michele Bonan in a restored 19th-century villa with 1930s yacht-inspired décor, this Leading Hotels of the World member holds 3 MICHELIN Keys. The heated outdoor pool offers Bay of Naples views, while rates include breakfast, afternoon tea, minibar soft drinks, and complimentary shuttle service to the Piazzetta and harbor (7am-midnight).
– Best season: May to October
– Insider tip: As one of Capri’s smallest luxury hotels, the intimate atmosphere means exceptional personalized service. The waterfront location makes arrivals by boat particularly scenic, and the included shuttle eliminates taxi hassles.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €900/night
– The definitive choice for views of Capri’s iconic Faraglioni rock formations, this Small Luxury Hotels of the World property was designed by Le Corbusier in the 1920s and once served as American WWII command headquarters, hosting Eisenhower and Churchill. The 44 rooms offer two outdoor pools (one heated with thalasso jets), while Le Monzù restaurant holds 1 Michelin star under Chef Luigi Lionetti. Walking distance to the famous Fontelina and Da Luigi beach clubs.
– Best season: May to September
– Insider tip: The Art Suite features a bathtub with direct Faraglioni views. Children are welcome from age 12 only, making this ideal for couples seeking romantic seclusion. Book Fontelina beach club in advance during summer.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €850/night
– A 1950s “La Dolce Vita”-inspired boutique property just 2 minutes from the Piazzetta, notable as Capri’s only hotel with certified Glatt Kosher cuisine. The Leading Hotels of the World member offers 46 uniquely designed rooms (25-300 m²), a 600 m² SPA Tiberio wellness center, and indoor/outdoor heated pools with art installations. Jacky Bar features 1950s Cuba ambiance with a white grand piano, while Terrazza Tiberio restaurant is Michelin Guide listed.
– Best season: April to October
– Insider tip: The Bellevue Suite with private pool is the ultimate splurge. The hotel’s central location means you can walk to the Piazzetta for evening passeggiata without arranging transport, a significant convenience on car-free Capri.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €1,400/night
– Capri’s oldest hotel (founded 1822) underwent a complete 2022 renovation by designer Francis Sultana, reopening as an Oetker Collection property. The 50 rooms and 18 suites feature 1950s jet-set inspired design, while Restaurant Gennaro’s showcases Chef Gennaro Esposito (who holds 2 Michelin stars at his Torre del Saracino). Amenities include Bianca Rooftop restaurant, Aqua Bar rooftop pool, La Palma Spa, and a private beach club.
– Best season: May to October
– Insider tip: As the newest luxury addition to Capri’s hotel scene, La Palma offers the most contemporary design on the island. The rooftop pool provides a glamorous alternative to the beach clubs for those who prefer staying close to the action.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Expert Strategies
Booking a stay at one of Capri’s luxury hotels requires a savvy approach. Direct bookings through official websites often provide the best rates and exclusive packages not available through other channels, including room upgrades, spa credits, and complimentary experiences. However, leveraging memberships with Virtuoso or Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts can unlock additional perks such as room upgrades, late check-outs, and dining credits. Planning is crucial; for the peak season (June through August), book at least six months in advance to secure your preferred dates. All Capri luxury hotels operate seasonally from April through October, with some enforcing 3-night minimum stays during peak periods. For those seeking a more serene experience, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May or September when the island is less crowded but equally captivating.
Making Your Choice
Choosing the right hotel in Capri boils down to personal preferences and the kind of experience you’re after. For art enthusiasts and gastronomes, the Capri Palace Jumeirah with its impressive De Chirico collection and 3 Michelin stars is the ideal choice. History buffs and those seeking the social heart of the island will prefer the timeless elegance of Grand Hotel Quisisana on Via Camerelle. Romantics seeking the ultimate view should opt for Hotel Punta Tragara’s Faraglioni panoramas or Caesar Augustus’ clifftop infinity pool. For intimate boutique luxury, J.K. Place’s 22-room waterfront property delivers exceptional personalized service. And for those wanting the newest, most contemporary luxury experience, Hotel La Palma’s 2022 Oetker Collection transformation represents the future of Capri hospitality. Regardless of your selection, each promises an unforgettable stay, blending opulence with the unique charm and beauty of this legendary Mediterranean island.
