Capri

The name of this island in the Bay of Naples evokes a romantic air, one of the best islands in Italy. Its steep cliffs rise nearly straight out of the lake, concealing its most famous feature. The Blue Grotto is a marine grotto into which small boats may navigate; within, reflected sunlight paints the water a brilliant blue.

Boat rides around the island show numerous caverns, arches, and the Faraglioni, a characteristic rock structure of sea stacks on the island's south shore. Capri and Anacapri, the island's two cities, have a holiday atmosphere, as tourists arrive on boats from Naples and Sorrento.

Aside from the cafés and trendy stores, the exquisite mansion and gardens of San Michele, and the Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus) high on the cliffs overlooking the Marina Piccola and the Faraglioni, are Capri highlights. Trails follow the shoreline for amazing views, or take a chairlift to the summit of the tallest hill for panoramic views of the entire island.