Introduction — The Gardens of Augustus: Capri’s most photogenic terrace
The Gardens of Augustus (Italian: Giardini di Augusto) are arguably one of the most iconic and photographed spots on the island of Capri. Perched in the heart of Capri town, these public gardens sit on a natural terrace that delivers spectacular panoramic views of the famous Faraglioni, Marina Piccola bay and the dramatic switchbacks of Via Krupp. The whole place is a compact mix of Mediterranean greenery, thoughtful landscape design and sea vistas that draws photographers and anyone looking for a quiet moment to soak in the scenery.
A visit to the Gardens of Augustus, located at the official address Giardini di Augusto, Via Vittorio Emanuele (Via Matteotti) 3, 80073 Capri NA, Italy, gives you a prime vantage point over the visual elements that define Capri. From the terrace you’ll see the three Faraglioni rocks rising from turquoise water, Via Krupp’s winding path dropping toward the sea, and on clear days the endless horizon of the Mediterranean. The landscaping — geometric beds, bougainvillea, laurels and umbrella pines — creates an almost theatrical setting that’s perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
The Gardens of Augustus also have historical and architectural interest: laid out in the early 20th century, they reflect an intention to create elegant, accessible public spaces that showcase the local landscape. The walk is short but rich: in a few dozen metres you move from one viewpoint to another, each frame designed to capture the scene from a different perspective. Visitors often stay 30–60 minutes, switching between snapping photos, reading a guide and enjoying a coffee on shaded benches.
In this detailed guide you’ll find not only practical information — address, prices, opening hours and local tips — but also suggested itineraries to pair the Gardens of Augustus with nearby attractions like the Piazza Umberto I (the Piazzetta), Via Krupp, the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) and Villa San Michele in Anacapri. I’ll point out the best times of day for light and photo conditions, plus tips to avoid crowds and make the most of your time on this very busy island.
Why the Gardens of Augustus are a must-see
The Gardens of Augustus are an essential stop for anyone visiting Capri. Their appeal comes from the combination of meticulous landscaping and a remarkable topographical position. The main terrace overlooks the island’s southwest side, offering an unbeatable view of the three Faraglioni — Faraglione di Terra (closest to the shore), Faraglione di Mezzo (with the famous arch) and Faraglione di Fuori (or Scopolo) — which punctuate the seascape. These rocks have become Capri’s visual emblem: seeing and photographing the Faraglioni from the Gardens of Augustus is almost a rite of passage for visitors.
Add to that the view of Via Krupp, the iconic zigzag road carved in the early 20th century to connect Marina Piccola with the upper gardens. Although Via Krupp is sometimes closed for safety reasons (rockfalls), its graphic curves seen from the terrace are a major photographic element. The contrast between the formal geometry of the flower beds and the rugged verticality of the Faraglioni creates rich compositions: use foreground plants, leading lines and depth of field to tell different visual stories.
Sensory-wise, the Gardens of Augustus also offer a welcome escape from the bustle of the Piazzetta and the shopping alleys. Shaded benches and paths scented by Mediterranean plants make for a relaxing break. In high season (May–September) the terrace becomes one of the best spots to watch the sun sink into the Tyrrhenian Sea — a time when light turns stone and foliage into warm ochres and golds.
Practically speaking, the site is well placed to combine with other visits: it’s just minutes on foot from Piazza Umberto I (Piazzetta), Piazza Umberto I, 80073 Capri NA, Italy, and close to the funicular down to Marina Grande. For photographers, the Gardens of Augustus offer easy, rewarding frames without a lot of physical effort — a rarity on an island where many viewpoints require hiking.
How to get there: address, opening hours, tickets and practical info
The Gardens of Augustus are located in the centre of Capri at: Giardini di Augusto, Via Vittorio Emanuele (Via Matteotti) 3, 80073 Capri NA, Italy. The main entrance is at the end of the shopping street that slopes down from the Piazzetta; you’ll see signs pointing to the gardens. Access is pedestrian-friendly and suitable for families and short visits.
Opening hours (seasonal — check locally):
- April to October: typically 09:00–19:00
- November to March: typically 09:00–17:00
- Hours may change for events or maintenance; check with the local tourist office (Capri Tourist Office, Via Longano 8, 80073 Capri NA) or the municipal website.
Admission (indicative — often cash-only, sometimes card):
- Adult ticket: about €1.50
- Reduced rate (children/students/seniors): about €1.00
- There are occasionally free admissions for certain categories (very young children) or combined tickets during cultural events. Bring small change; some tills don’t accept cards.
Access and mobility: the Piazzetta and main street are reachable from the Marina Grande funicular (funicolare, Marina Grande station). If you arrive by private boat or taxi, disembark at the Piazzetta and follow signs for Via Vittorio Emanuele / Via Matteotti. Expect uneven cobbles; comfortable shoes are recommended. Wheelchair or stroller access may be limited in places — check at the entrance.
What to see from the terrace: sights, photo frames and combined visits
From the Gardens of Augustus terrace you can spot several highlights worth paying attention to, both for their aesthetic value and tourist interest. Here are the must-see elements:
- Faraglioni: the three rocks — the island’s signature photo subject. Try different frames: a tight crop on the arch, a wide shot with a plant foreground, or silhouettes at sunset.
- Via Krupp: the switchback road descending to Marina Piccola. Even if closed for safety at times, its graphic lines are worth photographing from the terrace.
- Marina Piccola: beaches and coves with boats and colorful umbrellas below — great for contrasting sea and cliffs.
- Piazza Umberto I (Piazzetta): Capri’s social hub, a 5-minute walk away and perfect for a coffee break after the garden visit.
Smart combined visit ideas:
- Start early in the morning (or late afternoon) at the Gardens of Augustus for soft light and fewer people.
- Then head to the Piazzetta (Piazza Umberto I, 80073 Capri NA) for a traditional coffee at Bar Tiberio or a stroll through artisan shops.
- Afterwards, descend to Marina Grande if you’re planning a boat trip to the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) or a circumnavigation of the island. The main pier is at Marina Grande, 80073 Capri NA.
- If you’re going up to Anacapri, don’t miss Villa San Michele, Piazza della Pace 5, 80071 Anacapri NA for another spectacular view and a historic ornamental garden.
Each viewpoint can serve different purposes: photography, relaxation, reading up on local history, or watching everyday island life. The best shots are often found by stepping a little left or right of the main lookout to avoid crowds and improve composition.
Local tips, safety and practical recommendations
To make the most of your time at the Gardens of Augustus, here are practical local tips that will save you time and enhance your experience.
- Best times: arrive at opening for morning light and fewer people; sunset is spectacular but very busy. Midday (11:00–15:00) is the busiest period.
- Photography: bring a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto to isolate the Faraglioni. A compact tripod helps at dusk, but watch out for uneven ground.
- Tickets: carry coins (1–2 €) for the entrance ticket; check whether the booth accepts cards.
- Safety: obey barriers and don’t lean over guardrails — some viewpoints are exposed to strong winds.
- Accessibility: strollers and wheelchairs may encounter obstacles; inquire ahead of time.
- Itinerary combos: pair the visit with a coffee in the Piazzetta or a boat trip; allow 2–3 hours for Gardens of Augustus + Piazzetta + Marina Piccola.
In short, the Gardens of Augustus provide an accessible, concentrated and instantly rewarding experience for any Capri visitor. Expect seasonal changes in hours and access, follow safety rules and let the light and view do the rest — that’s the true charm of this terrace, the island’s most photogenic spot.
Conclusion — Why plan a visit to the Gardens of Augustus
Visiting the Gardens of Augustus means choosing a compact experience where landscape, history and aesthetics meet. For a small fee (around €1.50 for an adult) and a short detour in your Capri itinerary, you’ll get the iconic views that define the image of the island: the Faraglioni cutting into the sea, Via Krupp’s sinuous descent, and the gentle Mediterranean gardens. The terrace is perfect for amateur and professional photographers, as well as families and travellers seeking a place to rest and reflect.
Practically, the central location (Via Vittorio Emanuele / Via Matteotti 3) makes it easy to combine the visit with the Piazzetta, Marina Grande or a trip to Anacapri. Local tips — come early, bring change, wear comfortable shoes — will help you avoid small disappointments (temporary closures of Via Krupp, summer crowds). Finally, the visit fits naturally into a day of discovering Capri: it’s an island built for gentle walks, tasty breaks and contemplative photography.
Whether you’re passing through for a few hours or spending a whole day, give the Gardens of Augustus at least half an hour: you’ll leave with images etched in your memory, ideas for more island discoveries, and likely a desire to return at another time of day to rediscover the light. The Gardens of Augustus remain, without doubt, Capri’s most photogenic terrace — a small landscape gem not to be missed.