Capri Italy has always been one of the most cosmopolitan islands in the Mediterranean, beloved by the international jet set and Hollywood celebrities. Whereas once the cafès and restaurants were favorite haunts of artists, writers, intellectuals, and the aristocracy, today you are more likely to run into movie stars, celebrity athletes, and recognized faces from TV and entertainment.
It's not unusual to look up from your cappuccino in the Piazzetta and find your cafè table next to that of your favorite actor, dine with a view over the sea just a few seats away from the hottest musician of the moment, make a turn on the club floor elbow to elbow with a supermodel, or take a dip in the sea along with a sports celebrity. Though paparazzi are always present, on Capri island there is always a bit more respect for the privacy of VIP visitors, just another reason why it may be such a popular destination for those always in the spotlight. So, with a bit of luck, it's not hard to meet your idols face-to-face on this small island....
"Is this the main square? Then everyone must pass through here!" --Totò in the Italian comedy "The Emporer of Capri" (1949)
You can, of course, settle in at a table in the Piazzetta and keep your eyes peeled for famous passers-by, but it's also fun to celebrity spot along the lanes of Capri town in a lighthearted selfie treasure hunt. Though those in the gossip business are looking to sell a scoop - that money shot of lovers kissing aboard their yacht anchored outside the Blue Grotto or a night of wild clubbing - most celebrity hunters on Capri (and there are many) simply want an innocent snapshot of themselves with their favorite stars in a keepsake selfie!.
A Guide to Celebrity Spotting on Capri, Italy
A tip: Capri's celebrity visitors rarely are out and about until after about 6:00 pm, so you have to stay the night on the island to cross paths with them! The classic route for the evening "passeggiata" walk runs from the Piazzetta to the Quisisana, and then continues along Via Camerelle, lined with luxury boutiques. If you want to have a front row view of the passeggiata and not miss anyone, grab a table on the outside terrace at the Quisisana for a cocktail and people watching.
Where Stars Stay on Capri
Most celebrities stay on their luxury yachts moored near Marina Piccola right beneath the Faraglioni) or at the Capri Marina. They stay on board all day to avoid the tourist crowds, and disembark on the island only in the evening to dine at one of the island's restaurants or spend the evening at a club.
Those who opt to stay in a hotel usually choose the luxury Capri Palace or the Quisisana.
VIP Restaurants on Capri Island
Villa Verde: wall-to-wall celebrities at dinner
Da Paolino: known as the "restaurant to the stars"
Aurora: with its sidewalk tables along Via Fuorlovado, you just have to stroll by to spot a dining celebrity
Taverna Anema e Core: this is where everyone who's anyone spends their evening
Al piccolo Bar: the best spot for VIP breakfast, happy hour, or late night cocktails in the Piazzetta
La Fontelina: the most exclusive beach club on the island, and the favorite of stars
Il Riccio: the Capri Palace hotel's beach club and gourmet restaurant