The Blue Grotto is a sea cave on the northwest cliffs of Anacapri, famous for the luminous blue glow of its water, created when sunlight passes through a submerged opening and reflects up through the seawater. Because the entrance is only about 1 metre high, visitors must lie flat in a small four-person rowboat while the oarsman pulls the boat in using a chain fixed to the cave wall. Said to have served as a private bathing spot for the Roman emperor Tiberius, it became a signature attraction after its public rediscovery in 1826.
Water that glows an intense fluorescent blue from light entering through a submerged gap — the visit inside typically lasts about 5 minutes
The unusual entry: lying flat in a small rowboat to slip through the very low cave mouth
Blue is most vivid on clear, calm days, especially in the early-morning light
Two access routes: by boat from Marina Grande, or by bus/on foot from Anacapri to the clifftop ticket point
A historic site where ancient Roman remains (statues of Neptune and Triton) were discovered
Good to know
SeasonEven slightly rough seas or strong wind close the entrance and cancel visits. Summer has higher odds of entry while winter is much lower, so always confirm the day's opening on-site or by phone before going.
CautionOarsmen can be very pushy about tips and openly complain if they think you gave too little. The often-quoted 10 euro per person is not an official rule or mandatory — tip fairly if you enjoyed it, but don't cave to pressure.
RulesSwimming and diving inside the grotto are forbidden, due to the narrow low entrance, boat-traffic safety and the fragile ecosystem; violating this is dangerous.
SafetyYou must lie completely flat in the boat to enter, and in peak season you may wait over an hour on a rocking boat, which easily causes seasickness. Bring motion-sickness remedies and mind your head and hands at the low mouth.
RulesEntrance fee, rowboat transfer and tips are generally cash only (euros). You cannot pre-book the cave ticket online — it is bought at the floating booth in front of the grotto, so carry enough cash.
SeasonRowboat operation runs roughly 9:00 to 17:00 with long peak-season queues, and it is closed on days such as 25 Dec and 1 Jan. Confirm exact prices, hours and opening status before your visit.
Practical info
About a 10-minute boat ride from Marina Grande, or reachable by bus from Anacapri. Costs generally split into the cave entrance fee, the rowboat transfer, and (optionally) an island-tour boat fare, paid in cash. Arriving early (no later than around 9:30) reduces both waiting and the risk of cancellation. Verify current prices, hours and whether it is open just before you go.
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