The Isle of Capri is the epitome of Mediterranean glamor. With its brilliant blue waters, secret grottoes, sweet lemons, and lush landscapes, Capri has been the world’s muse for centuries. Our recorded fascination with Capri goes all the way back to the Ancient Romans when Emperor Tiberius built his private retreat on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean. By the mid-19th century, Capri was cemented as the go-to destination for artists, dreamers, and A-listers, with everyone from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren gracing these spectacular shores. Capri’s timeless reputation as a place of glitz and glamor remains and it’s still a favorite holiday destination for celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, Beyonce and Jay Z, Lenny Kravitz, Valentino and more.

If you want to vacation like a star, we’ll show you how to spend the perfect day in Capri. Unlock the essence of Capri with exclusive experiences like a private cruise to hidden grottoes and Michelin-starred dining overlooking the Gulf of Naples. From driving the winding roads in an open-top car to tasting lemon Granita and relaxing at beach clubs, here’s how to spend the perfect day in Capri. 

TAKE THE TRIP: Utimate Italy

Arrive in style

Your perfect day in Capri begins with the magnificent entrance. You’ll board a boat and sail across the sparkling turquoise waters, taking in the gorgeous views as you approach the island. As you dock in the harbor, you’ll get your first glimpse of the stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and balmy atmosphere of the island. 

After disembarking from the boat, you’ll be escorted to your private open-top taxi for a glamorous experience that’s oh-so-Capri. As you cruise along the winding roads with the warm breeze in your hair (headscarf and sunglasses optional!), you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight out of a vintage film. Onlookers might even speculate about the VIP cruising through the streets!

Your stay – Quisisana Hotel

You’ll arrive at the luxurious Quisisana Hotel, where you’ll stay for two nights. This beautiful hotel overlooks Capri’s central plaza and is perched high above the lush landscapes with views of the brilliant blue ocean. It’s a prime position for a stay in Capri, and the rooms are equally elegant, with the gorgeous Mediterranean design matching the dreamy backdrop. 

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

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Explore Capri

You’ll have a whole day to explore the wonders of Capri. We recommend starting with a private cruise around the spectacular coastline of Capri. This intimate journey reveals hidden coves and glittering grottoes on the cliffside. You’ll also visit the renowned White Grotto, where sparkling stalactites hang over the entrance. They reflect against the turquoise sea creating a dazzling display. 

On your cruise, you’ll likely catch a glimpse of the famous Faraglioni, the towering rock formation rising from the ocean. If you want to get a panoramic view from above, there’s plenty of great spots to explore. Head to the Gardens of Augustus, not only for gorgeous views but ornate gardens and historic sculptures.

From the gardens, you’ll find the start of Via Krupp, a pedestrian-only hairpin walkway leading to the beautiful Marina Piccola beach below. Wander down the walkway and marvel at the rugged cliffs, before arriving at the beach. You can check out the luxury yachts and villas or go for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Looking for a truly glamorous Capri experience? Rent a sunbed at the glitzy beach clubs, like La Canzone del Mare.

If you feel like getting active, walk along the lush Via Tragara. You’ll find breathtaking views of the coastline, and spot Villa Malaparte, Curzio Malaparte’s red-painted architectural gem. There’s also the Path of the Little Forts in Anacapri, and the path to the Migliera Scenic Overlook, both with beautiful views. You could even take on the challenging 921 Phoenician stone steps that take you from Anacapri to the main port, Marina Grande. 

Dining

After your private cruise, we’ll indulge in a lemon Granita tasting session. Freshly made with sweet Sicilian lemons, this beloved drink is the best way to cool off in the Mediterranean. 

At lunchtime, we’ll combine views with food at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Mammà. Perched over the Gulf of Naples, you’ll savor delicious Mediterranean flavors. The mouthwatering meals are made with local produce by renowned chef Salvatore La Ragione.

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Evening

Once all the day-tripper tourists go home, you’ll have Capri all to yourself with the locals. You might like to head to a viewpoint and watch the enchanting sunset cast a golden glow over the island. Or settle in at a vibrant bar or restaurant for some local wine or Limoncello. You could even retire to your luxurious rooms at the Quisisana Hotel and soak up the view some more.

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You’ll enjoy the perfect day in Capri on our Ultimate Italy luxury tour. While the Isle of Capri is certainly the showstopper of this trip, you’ll also visit other iconic destinations including Rome, the Vatican, Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence and Tuscany. From lavish hotels to exclusive dining, discover all the remarkable experiences you’ll have with Luxury Gold in Italy.

The most glamorous coastal cities serve up a bewitching blend of stunning beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant nightlife – and it’s all best experienced in summer. Whether you’re drawn to glitzy Saint-Tropez, energetic Rio, or laidback Sydney, here are the coastal cities that embody summer glamour. 

Saint-Tropez, France

Set in the heart of the French Riviera, Saint-Tropez is synonymous with glamour and luxury. What was once a quiet fishing village is now a summer paradise, with its reputation for glitz firmly established by Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s. In the summer, beautiful beaches like Pampelonne Beach come alive with people soaking up the Mediterranean sun. 

The city’s marina boasts an impressive array of lavish yachts, and the waterfront is lined with high-end boutiques, terraced cafes and gourmet restaurants offering the finest French cuisine. Saint-Tropez is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with world-famous clubs like Les Caves du Roy attracting celebrities and socialites from around the world. 

Despite its flashy reputation, Saint-Tropez hasn’t lost its magic. The old town, La Ponche, provides a quaint contrast to the city’s glamorous side. The narrow, winding streets, traditional Provencal market stalls, and historic Citadel add a touch of old-world charm to the city. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France 

Read more: 5 Côtes de Provence rosés you should be sipping this summer

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubbed the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik perfectly blends history with modern glamour. The UNESCO-listed city’s medieval walls and historic Old Town back onto the city’s gorgeous beaches, like Banje Beach and Sveti Jakov. They become a playground for sun-seekers in the summer months, with the turquoise water enticing swimmers and snorkelers to the shores. 

The city’s gourmet restaurants are the ideal spot to enjoy al fresco dining in the balmy evenings and savor delicious Dalmatian cuisine and fresh seafood. You also can’t resist the city’s nightlife on a warm summer night, with wine bars and exclusive clubs adding another alluring layer to Dubrovnik. Experience its food and vibrant nightlife firsthand on one of our Croatia luxury tours.

Experience it: Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Read more: Six of the world’s most beautiful walled cities and towns 

Monaco

No list of glamorous coastal cities would be complete without mentioning Monaco. This tiny yet affluent city-state on the French Riviera is the embodiment of summer glam. The sparkling Mediterranean Sea makes a stunning backdrop as you explore the iconic marina filled with superyachts, lush gardens, upscale cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants. 

Head to the beautiful Larvotto Beach or try your luck at the elegant Casino de Monte-Carlo. You could even time your visit with high-profile events like the Grand Prix, Monaco, for the ultimate luxury coastal holiday. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France 

Read more: Destination France: Live Your Parisien or Provencal Dream

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is undeniably one of the most glamorous and energetic coastal cities in the world. The iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are the city’s crown jewels, with golden sands, warm waters and people pumping music and playing football. At sunset, the beachside bars and restaurants come alive with locals and visitors enjoying the unique culinary scene. 

Unwind with a caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, or dive into Rio’s vibrant nightlife in the Lapa neighborhood. From chic rooftop bars to buzzing samba clubs, you can’t help but have a blast in Rio. Stick around for Carnival, and you’ll really see the city light up, with two million people descending on the city for the greatest party on earth. 

Experience it: Classic South America

Read more: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Isle of Capri, Italy

It may not be a city, but the Isle of Capri is the queen of summer glamour. Set off the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy, Capri is renowned for its crystal blue grottoes, luxury beach clubs, upscale hotels, and designer shopping. It’s also home to a remarkable culinary scene, with restaurants offering fresh seafood and authentic Italian cuisine. And it’s all best enjoyed with an Aperol Spritz in the summer months. 

Here you’ll walk in the footsteps of the most famous artists, socialites, and dreamers who were all captivated by the charms of Capri. From classic icons like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor to the modern-day glitterati like Beyonce, Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, and Leonardo DiCaprio, Capri goes hand-in-hand with stardom. 

Experience it: Ultimate Italy 

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Sydney, Australia

Summer in Sydney conjures up images of lavish boat rides on Sydney Harbor and iconic beaches like Bondi and Bronte. With plenty of music and art festivals and a remarkable dining scene, summer is the best time to soak up the glamour of Sydney. You could catch a performance at the world-renowned Sydney Opera House and enjoy international cuisine in hotspots like Surry Hills, Newtown and Haymarket. Take the ferry to laidback Manly or have a picnic at the Royal Botanical Gardens. You could even head out of the city to the beautiful Blue Mountains to soak up the Australian bush scenery.

Plan your summer holidays over New Year’s Eve, and you’ll witness one of the world’s most impressive celebrations with a spectacular fireworks show over Sydney Harbor. 

Experience it: Inspiring Australia

Read more: Acclaimed Sydney restaurant Bennelong and its love affair with Australian food

Barcelona, Spain

With a unique combination of sun, sea, and stunning architecture, Barcelona is one of those effortlessly glamorous coastal cities. Spend your mornings exploring the icons of Barcelona like the Gothic Quarter and Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. In the afternoon, relax on sunny beaches like Nova Icaria and Barceloneta. 

As evening falls, delve into the city’s gastronomic scene, from mouthwatering tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. After dark, you can’t resist the vibrant nightlife. With glitzy nightclubs, jazz bars, and a thrilling atmosphere filling the streets, everyone comes together to celebrate summer in Barcelona. 

Experience it: Spain & Portugal in Style

Read more: 5 timeless and beautiful European cities to re-discover this summer

Cape Town, South Africa

World-class winelands, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife – Cape Town is the epitome of summer glamour. Start by exploring the city’s exceptional natural beauty. Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain or wander around the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Go swimming at Clifton Beach and Camps Bay, or meet the resident African penguins at Boulders Beach. Venture into the Cape Winelands for the most remarkable wine experiences. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are all within easy reach of the city and offer stunning vineyards and wine tastings.

You’ve also got to explore the culinary scene. Dive into local specialities at the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill. Or ask your Travel Concierge to make a reservation at a gourmet restaurant to try traditional South African dishes. You can also head to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for high-end shopping and dining experiences or check out Long Street for bustling nightlife. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: A Gastronomic Guide to Cape Town

You don’t always need to visit the iconic museums and galleries to see artworks by famous artists. Choose the right hotel, and you can find masterpieces right there in the hotel lobby or guestroom. From antiquities at the Hotel Metropole Venice to artworks by Dalí and Warhol at Ashford Castle in Ireland, here are some of the best Luxury Gold hotels where you can discover remarkable art collections.

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal

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Known for its rich history, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal is a feast for art lovers. The hotel is home to an exclusive art collection, created in collaboration with art curator Marie-Justine Snider, MASSIVart Collection and Sid Lee Architecture. It showcases around 124 artworks by 37 Canadian artists across 21 floors.

From paintings and drawings to photography and sculptures, there are endless treasures to explore in the hotel. You can find Paul Hardy’s Drift Glow oil painting, a sculpture by Michel De Broin, a Platner armchair, and a mixed media installation by Alexandre Berthiaume.

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There’s also the immortalised Suite 1742, where John Lennon and Yoko Ono held their iconic bed-in. From original furniture to an archival cabinet and virtual reality headset that lets you experience John and Yoko’s point of view, this is a mini museum in itself, and firmly cements the hotel as an artistic hotspot in Montreal.

Stay here: Vibrant Quebec & New England

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Hotel Metropole Venice, Venice

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Venice is famed for its exquisite museums and monuments, but you can enjoy a unique private art collection with a stay at Hotel Metropole Venice. Dripping in historic grandeur, the hotel is home to an extensive collection of antiques, artworks and tapestries from all over the world.

Admire vintage fans, wallets, handbags, nutcrackers, corkscrews, crucifixes, and other precious artifacts throughout the Metropole’s corridors and rooms. There’s even a Salone degli Specchi (Hall of Mirrors) and an original painting of Selim II, Sultan of the Ottoman Empire.

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The Costume Museum of the Mocenigo Palace in Venice even once loaned the Metropole priceless pieces for a temporary exhibition, thanks to the hotel’s artistic reputation and existing collection. 

Stay here: Ultimate Italy

Read more: Expert selected: the 4 best hotel spas you can visit with Luxury Gold

The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Ireland

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Set on the spectacular 350-acre estate of Ashford Castle, overlooking Lough Corrib, The Lodge is a true hidden gem. While most come here to enjoy an Irish fine dining experience at Wilde’s Restaurant, there’s also another major drawcard – the art collection. 

You’ll discover a remarkable collection of masterpieces from Salvador Dalí’s Marjore and Andy Warhol’s Absolut Vodka to Toulouse-Lautrec’s A Portrait Of Yvette Guilbert. There’s a Henry Moore black lithograph called A Seated Woman in an Armchair, a pair of colored lithographs called Maravillas Suite by Joan Miró, and Egon Schiele’s Nude Girl With Arms Raised. From Lucienne Day and David Hockney to Henry Moore and Peter Blake, there’s some serious art here.

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It’s well worth the 20-minute walk from the magnificent Ashford Castle, where you can also meet resident artist Rick Lewis A.R.A. As one of Ireland’s most renowned artists, Lewis has produced a stunning series of paintings featuring Ashford Castle and is even available for guest commissions.

Stay here: Ultimate Ireland

Read more: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, South Africa

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This luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel in Cape Town hosts its own private art collection, showcasing a remarkable blend of African art and contemporary works. The pieces are scattered throughout the hotel and you’ll discover paintings, sculptures and intricate beadwork, celebrating the local culture, traditions, and natural environment. 

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Named after the rugged mountain range surrounding the hotel, the location was a source of inspiration for many artists throughout history. You can even spot the famous mountain scenes painted by the Dutch/South African painter Tinus De Jongh and his son Gabriel De Jongh.

Stay here: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: How to spend 24 hours at 7 of the most exquisite hotels around the world

Leela Palaces, India

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The Leela Palaces have created an extraordinary artistic experience for guests. At The Leela Palace Bengaluru, your artistic journey begins at the door. The dazzling 17th-century Peacock Throne which was the seat of Mughal emperors, is located at the entrance to the lobby, and the gilded peacock stonework is simply exquisite.

The Leela Palace Udaipur pays tribute to the Land of the Mewars with traditional artisanal crafts and artifacts inspired by the regal cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Its hallways are lined with a trove of Indian artwork.

The Leela Palace New Delhi has created an extraordinary artistic experience for guests. Their extensive art collection is scattered throughout the hotel, featuring works by artists such as Satish Gujral, Paresh Maity, Sanjay Bhattacharya, Satish Gupta and Laxma Goud. 

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Discover ornate Rajasthani paintings and Tanjore gold leaf paintings. Admire the artworks lining the corridors then discover the massive golden mosaic revealing a blossoming lotus bud in the central courtyard. The guestrooms and suites feature lithographs depicting Indian kings and queens, embedded with semi-precious stones and gold leaf by famed photographer Rohan Shreshta. 

You’ll also discover the exclusive Art Walk, with a rare collection of Indian art. From murals and paintings to sculptures and contemporary installations, this remarkable experience is parallel to visiting a museum or art gallery.  

Stay here: Essence of India 

Read more: Step inside the most unique luxury retreats in India

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

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If you love art hotels, you can’t miss Hotel Granvia Kyoto. Featuring over a thousand artworks by Kyoto-based artists, the hotel holds one of the most significant art collections in the country. You’ll find both traditional and contemporary Japanese art here, with the collection spread from the lobby to corridors and guest rooms.

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Whether it’s the intricately hand-painted screens, unique sculptures, or handcrafted ceramics, art is an integral part of the experience at Hotel Granvia Kyoto. It offers invaluable insight into Japan’s rich artistic heritage and the chance to get immersed in the local Kyoto art culture. 

Stay here: Majestic Japan 

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold