Capri

The glorious island of Capri is one of the treasures of the Italian coastline. It has been a favourite holiday spot since Roman times. The emperor Augustus Tiberius loved it so much that he made it his home. The area around Capri is often known as the Siren Coast, because in mythology the island was the home of the sirens, whose haunting and seductive song lured sailors to their deaths. Today, the stylish island still lures people to its shores, attracted by its turquoise seas, sophisticated shops and top class hotels. The two main centres are Capri town and Anacapri, and the island is the ideal destination for those seeking a glamorous holiday, rather than a cheap and cheerful resort.

Capri has long been a favourite destination with British visitors, including writers like Charles Dickens and Graham Greene. The island still attracts large numbers of British people, who come on cruise ships, package tours and also day trips from Naples or Sorrento. Capri's jet set image was established in the 1950s, when figures like Jacqueline Kennedy and Sofia Loren came to stay, and it's still a favourite destination for wealthy actors, politicians, and members of the European glitterati.

Capri is on the western coast of Italy, in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The nearest city on the mainland is Naples, approximately 50km (31 miles) away and the location of the closest airport. The closest mainland resort is Sorrento just 5km (3 miles) across the sea.

The island juts dramatically out of the sea, with a jagged mountainous heart surrounded by a rugged coastline. The main tourist town, Capri, is on the easterly side of the island, with quieter Anacapri in the west.

The rugged coast means that Capri is not noted for its sandy beaches, but there are lots of pebbly coves and bays. One of the most popular beaches is Marina Piccola, on the south of the island, which is accessible by bus. Other beaches include Bagni di Tiberio on the northern coast. Beaches here are not free, and get very busy.

The classic tourist trip is a boat trip to Capri's famous Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), a striking sea grotto that has inspired many painters and writers. Motorboats leave regularly from the main harbour, Marina Grande, and small rowing boats take you into the heart of the grotto. Better value is a full day boat trip, taking in the whole island. Capri town is a pleasant place to stroll. Keen walkers can make the 45 minute walk from Piazza Umberto out to the ruins of Villa Jovis, Tiberius' main home on the island.

With its lack of sandy beaches and child-oriented attractions, Capri is not a resort that attracts those seeking cheap family fun. However, this is Italy and children will be made welcome. They should enjoy the boat trips, the ride up the funicular from the harbour to Capri town, and the chair lift that operates from the centre of Anacapri up to Monte Solaro, the island's highest point.

Capri is a shoppers' paradise - especially for those wanting to treat themselves to some chic new clothes. The little streets of Capri town are filled with designer boutiques - including Armani, Prada and Dolce & Gabbana. Handmade sandals and glittering jewellery are popular purchases. For gifts, Carthusia (Via Camerelle and Via Federico Serena) is a traditional perfumery that makes lovely perfumes made from local herbs and flowers. They use techniques first used on Capri by Carthusian monks. For crafts, pottery and local food and wines make for the less touristy town of Anacapri.

Capri has a sophisticated and lively night time scene. Most of it is focused around Capri town and bustling Piazza Umberto, which has plenty of bars where visitors and locals come in the early evening to see and be seen. After a lazy meal in a restaurant, the smart set make for one of the island's nightclubs, such as Baraonda (Via Roma). There are also several quieter piano bars in both Capri town and Anacapri.

Capri has plenty of elegant, and expensive, restaurants, as well as many lively cafés. Local specialities are widely available and well worth trying. There is insalata Caprese (a salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and olive oil); ravioli Caprese (a cheese filled pasta), and torta Caprese (a delicious cake with chocolate and almonds). Fresh fish also features on many menus. Excellent restaurants include Da Paolino (Via Palazzo a Mare), and La Capannina (Via Le Botteghe). The classic liqueur is lemon-flavoured limoncello.

Capri has a pretty good transport system. There's the funicular railway that links the harbour to Capri town, saving a very steep walk uphill. The narrow streets of the towns, Capri and Anacapri, are easily explored on foot and buses run between them regularly. Motorcycle hire is available, and you can even charter a yacht.

Anacapri is the quieter of the island's two towns, and less visited by tourists. Its attractions include the Chiesa di San Michele (Piazza San Nicola), a church with a vibrant floor of majolica tiles. You can also visit Casa Rosa (Via G Orlandi), a 19th-century house built by an American and now filled with paintings.

Treat yourself to custom-made jewellery from La Perla Gioielli (Piazza Umberto), the island's oldest jewellers. They fashion stunning items from gold, diamonds and other precious stones. If you have to ask the price, you probably can't afford it!

Naples (Capodichino) Airport (NAP)