Grotta Azzurra, Capri

Exploring the Enchanting Blue Grotto in Capri, Anacapri

If you're planning a trip to the beautiful island of Capri in southern Italy, one attraction that should be at the top of your list is the mesmerizing Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra in Italian. Located on the coast of Capri, this natural sea cave is a sight to behold, with its stunning blue reflection that illuminates the cavern.

A Natural Wonder

The Blue Grotto is a unique phenomenon created by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity and shining through the seawater. This creates a magical blue glow that fills the cave, giving it an otherworldly ambiance. The cave extends about 50 meters into the cliff at the surface and reaches a depth of approximately 150 meters, with a sandy bottom.

A Captivating Experience

To fully experience the enchantment of the Blue Grotto, visitors can hop aboard a small rowboat and be guided through the tiny stone portal by a skilled skipper. As you enter the cave, you'll be greeted by complete darkness, only to be amazed as you transition into a sparkling cavern bathed in azure blue light. The water inside the cave is crystal clear, with silver reflections, creating a surreal atmosphere that will leave you in awe.

Fun Facts about the Blue Grotto

• The Blue Grotto is one of the most famous sights on Capri island and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
• The cave mouth is only about two meters wide and a meter high, so visitors must board small rowboats to enter.
• The Blue Grotto is approximately 60 meters long and 25 meters wide, with a maximum depth of 150 meters.
• The cave is closed to visitors during rough seas or high winds, and it's always closed on December 25th and January 1st.

How to Visit

The Blue Grotto is open to visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, but it's important to note that access is subject to favorable sea conditions. Each morning at 9:00 a.m., skippers evaluate the safety of entering the cave. In case of rough seas or high winds, the cave mouth is inaccessible.

There are two main ways to visit the Blue Grotto. If you prefer a guided tour, you can purchase tickets for tours of the island by sea or a roundtrip ticket to the Blue Grotto at the ticket offices of the Motoscafisti and Laser Capri charter companies located at Marina Grande's port. The "Island Tour by Sea + Stop at the Grotto" option allows you to explore the entire island before making a stop at the entrance of the Blue Grotto. From there, you'll transfer to a small rowboat to enter the cave.

Alternatively, if you have your own private boat, you can anchor near the cave at the designated buoys and signal one of the waiting rowboats to pick you up. This option provides more flexibility and allows you to explore the Blue Grotto at your own pace.

An Unforgettable Experience

Visiting the Blue Grotto is an experience that should not be missed during your trip to Capri. The natural beauty and ethereal atmosphere of the cave will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you choose to take a guided tour or explore with your own boat, the Blue Grotto is sure to captivate your senses and provide a truly magical experience.

So, make sure to plan your visit to the Blue Grotto when you're in Capri, and prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder.