Gardens of Augustus

The Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto) are one of the most picturesque and visited attractions on the sunny island of Capri in Italy. This magnificent botanical garden, located near the town center, is a true oasis of peace and beauty. The park was founded in the early 20th century by German industrialist Friedrich Alfred Krupp and originally bore his name.

The gardens are famous for their well-tended terraces descending toward the sea. Here, you can see a rich variety of the island's flora — from vibrant geraniums and dahlias to spreading oaks and cedars. Walking paths decorated with white statues lead visitors through fragrant flower beds, creating the perfect atmosphere for leisurely relaxation and enjoying nature.

However, the main reason tourists from all over the world are drawn here is the breathtaking panoramic views. From the observation decks of the Gardens of Augustus, you can see one of the most famous postcard panoramas of Capri: the majestic Faraglioni rocks rising from the azure sea, the picturesque Marina Piccola bay, and the famous winding Via Krupp road carved into the cliff. This place is a real find for photographers and anyone who wants to take home the most vivid memories of the island.

Since the Gardens of Augustus are primarily a public park and observation deck, there are no specific contact details for visitors, such as a phone number or email address. The most reliable way to find out current information about opening hours and entrance fees is to contact tourist information centers in Capri or check official travel portals of the island before your visit.

Getting to the gardens is very easy. They are located at Via Matteotti, 2, just a few minutes' walk from the central Piazzetta square. Simply follow the scenic streets of Via Vittorio Emanuele and Via Federico Serena, which will lead you directly to the entrance of this magnificent park.

A visit to the Gardens of Augustus is primarily an opportunity to actively enjoy beauty, not just contemplate it. The main task here for many is to find that perfect angle for a photo that will become a hallmark of their trip to Capri. Don't rush; walk through all the garden terraces: each offers familiar landscapes from a new perspective. Experiment with composition to capture not only the classic panoramas but also a unique moment — the play of light on the water or a snow-white yacht passing in the distance.

After a walk through the island's bustling streets, the gardens offer a well-deserved rest. Find one of the many benches located in the shade of spreading pines and cedars. It's the perfect place to step away from the tourist hustle for a few minutes. Close your eyes, breathe in the subtle scents of flowers, and listen to the sounds of nature. It is in these moments of complete peace that the unique atmosphere of this place is truly felt.

The Gardens of Augustus are also a small open-air botanical museum. Take time to leisurely explore the rich collection of plants gathered here. Strolling along the well-kept paths, you can see vibrant geraniums, lush hydrangeas, and many other decorative flowers and trees characteristic of Italy's flora. Such a walk allows you to take a break from the grand views and focus on the beauty of the details that make this garden so special.

To reach the magnificent Gardens of Augustus, your journey begins with arrival on the island of Capri itself. The only way to get here is by sea. Regular ferries and high-speed hydrofoils depart from ports in Italy, such as Naples and Sorrento, and during the summer season, also from Positano and Amalfi. All vessels arrive at the island's main port, Marina Grande, from where your path to the famous gardens starts.

From the port of Marina Grande, you need to head up to the center of Capri town. The most popular and fastest way is the funicular, with its station located right across from the pier. In just a few minutes, it will take you to the central Piazzetta square. Alternatively, you can use local buses that also run between the port and the center.

Once at the Piazzetta, you will be just a few steps away from your destination. The Gardens of Augustus are within walking distance of the center, and a stroll through the picturesque streets will take no more than 10-15 minutes. Signs are posted along the way for convenience. A good landmark is the signs leading to the Certosa di San Giacomo monastery, as the park is located in its immediate vicinity.

The history of the Gardens of Augustus is inextricably linked with the name of the German industrialist Friedrich Alfred Krupp, who purchased this plot of land at the beginning of the 20th century. Initially, he planned to build a luxury villa here, but those plans were not meant to be. Instead, Krupp, enchanted by the beauty of Capri, gifted the island a magnificent, well-tended park, which at first bore his name and was only later renamed. This site became public property and one of the main attractions on the island.

It was Krupp who initiated the construction of another iconic landmark that can be seen from the gardens — the famous Via Krupp. This impressive pedestrian switchback, designed by engineer Emilio Mayer and built in 1902, gracefully descends the cliffs, connecting the gardens with the picturesque Marina Piccola bay. The road is considered a true masterpiece of engineering and one of the most beautiful in the world. It was created to provide a convenient descent to the sea, where the industrialist kept his yachts.

Amidst the lush vegetation and classical sculptures of the gardens lies a rather unexpected detail — a monument to V.I. Lenin. Its appearance here is no coincidence: Lenin visited Capri twice, in 1908 and 1910, as a guest of the writer Maxim Gorky, who lived on the island at the time. The white marble monument was installed in the gardens in 1970, commissioned by the Soviet embassy in Italy, adding another unusual touch to the rich history of this remarkable place.

When planning a visit to the Gardens of Augustus, you can be sure it won't take much time but will offer plenty of impressions. For a full experience of this picturesque corner of Capri, 30 to 60 minutes is enough for most visitors. This time is sufficient to leisurely stroll through the well-kept terraces, enjoy the panoramic views of the Faraglioni rocks, and take some commemorative photos.

If you aren't short on time, you could spend more than an hour here. For instance, photography enthusiasts might linger to catch the perfect light for shots, while those seeking solitude can find a free bench and simply relax in the shade of the trees, breathing in the scent of flowers. Overall, the gardens do not require long exploration, as their main value lies in the views from the observation decks and the general atmosphere of tranquility. Therefore, even a short visit will leave bright and pleasant memories of your trip through Italy.

The Gardens of Augustus are open to visitors year-round, but opening hours change depending on the season. Generally, during the summer months (April to October), the park stays open longer, usually from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, so visitors can enjoy the views throughout the daylight hours. During the autumn-winter period, from November to March, operating hours are shorter, and the gardens close earlier, approximately around 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Since the exact schedule may change, it is highly recommended to check current opening hours on official Capri travel portals or at information points immediately before your visit.

Advance ticket booking for the Gardens of Augustus is usually not required. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the park entrance. It’s worth noting that it can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season. If you want to avoid the crowds and take photos in a more peaceful setting, the best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, before closing. This will allow you to fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning panoramas offered by this picturesque corner of Italy.

Visiting the Gardens of Augustus is just one facet of discovering the amazing island of Capri. To fully experience its unique atmosphere, it is worth exploring the surroundings of this famous attraction. A stroll through the nearby streets and viewpoints will not only provide new impressions but also allow you to see the island from different perspectives, revealing its hidden treasures.

The charm of Italy, and Capri in particular, lies in the details: cozy cafes, unexpected panoramic views, and historical sites located literally steps away from each other. Near the Gardens of Augustus, there are many interesting sites that can easily be included in your walking route, making your stroll even more fulfilling and memorable.