Shopping a Capri
Luxury shop windows, artisan workshops, and timeless souvenirs
Capri isn't just for the beach. You also want to return home with something unique, whether it's a pair of custom-made sandals or a bottle of limoncello that still smells of the island every time you open it.
Shopping on Capri is an experience in itself: glamour and craftsmanship coexist just steps away from each other, along white stone alleys that seem designed specifically to make you slow down in front of the shop windows.
The two roads not to be missed
Via Camerelle is the heart of luxury: in less than two hundred meters, Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, Dior, Bulgari, and Louis Vuitton parade past. It's no ordinary street—it's an open-air gallery where every window is an invitation. Even just strolling down it is an experience. Fun fact: beneath your feet, hidden in the side arches, are still the Roman cisterns that supplied water to Tiberius's villas.
Via Le Botteghe tells the story of another side of Capri. It begins in the Piazzetta and winds down to Via Tiberio: here you'll find Instagram's most photographed greengrocer, the historic "La Conchiglia" bookstore (with everything written about the island, in elegant editions), tailoring boutiques, and unique local artisanal pieces. It's the perfect street for those seeking authenticity.
What to bring home
Made-to-measure sandals: Capri's most beloved tradition. You enter the shop, the shoemaker takes your measurement, you choose the sole and straps, and in an hour you're wearing a pair of handmade sandals. The historic shop is Canfora (founded in 1946): among its most loyal customers was Jackie Kennedy, who had the shop open late at night just for her.
Carthusia Perfumes: artisanal fragrances created since 1948 according to recipes inspired by the ancient monks of the Certosa di San Giacomo. Jasmine, myrtle, rosemary: each bottle is a piece of the Mediterranean. The main laboratory is located near the Gardens of Augustus.
Limoncello di Capri: take home a bottle, strictly artisanal. Capri lemons are larger and more fragrant than other varieties: the result is an intense and fresh liqueur, without preservatives.
Torta Caprese: Created by mistake in the 1920s when a pastry chef forgot to add the flour, it has become the island's signature dessert. Almonds, cocoa, and gluten-free, it's also perfect as a gift.
San Michele Bell: a small bronze souvenir, a symbol of good luck on the island. You can find it in the shops of the historic center.
The extra tip
For artisan shopping, avoid the central hours of August and prefer the early morning, when the island still belongs to the Capri people and the shopkeepers have all the time in the world to let you choose calmly.