Blue Grotto in Capri
Blue Grotto entrance - Capri Island
Blue Grotto entrance

The Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra, is one of the most iconic and enchanting attractions on the island of Capri. This natural sea cave is famous for its breathtaking blue light, created by sunlight entering the grotto through an underwater opening and reflecting off the water, illuminating the cave with an ethereal glow.

The Experience:

  1. Arrival by Boat:
    Most visitors reach the Blue Grotto by boat from Marina Grande, Capri’s main harbor, or as part of a private guided boat tour around the island, which is the best way avoiding some queue at the port or at the site entrance, you will still need to wait 1 hour approx to get in, but if we are lucky in 30 minutes we will be able to let you catch the rowboat. Boats arrive and wait outside the grotto, where smaller rowboats take passengers inside.
  2. Transfer to Rowboats:
    To enter the grotto, visitors transfer to small rowboats operated by expert oarsmen. These boats typically hold two to four people. Since the cave’s entrance is very narrow, passengers must lie down as the rowboat slips through the low opening.
  3. Inside the Grotto:
    Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing blue light reflecting off the water. The color seems almost otherworldly, and the water sparkles with silvery hues. The oarsmen often sing traditional Italian songs, amplifying the magical atmosphere inside the cave.
  4. Time Inside:
    The visit inside the grotto typically lasts about 5–10 minutes due to its popularity and the number of visitors waiting outside.
  5. Weather-Dependent Access:
    The Blue Grotto can only be visited in calm sea conditions. Strong winds or high tides can make the entrance inaccessible, so it’s essential to check the weather beforehand.

Practical Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to early afternoon (10 AM to 2 PM) when the sunlight is at its peak, enhancing the grotto’s brilliant blue hues.
  • Fees: There’s an entrance fee to the grotto, paid in addition to the cost of the rowboat service.
  • Patience Required: The grotto is a popular attraction, and queues to enter can be long, especially during peak tourist season.

The Blue Grotto offers a truly magical experience, blending natural beauty with cultural charm, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Capri.