Audio Guide of Villa San Michele

Villa San Michele usually opens at 9:00 AM, and closing times vary by season, generally between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. I recommend checking the current hours on the official Villa San Michele website before your visit. To get there, you can take a bus from Marina Grande or Capri to Anacapri, or a taxi; the villa is conveniently signposted once you are in Anacapri. If you arrive by funicular from Marina Grande, in Capri you will need to take a bus to Anacapri.

The general admission price for Villa San Michele is €10 (in 2024), and children enter free. If you want updated prices and information about possible discounts for groups or students, I recommend checking the admission fees section on its official website. Tickets are purchased directly on site.

To have a good experience and appreciate both the gardens and the interior of the villa, I suggest allowing between 1 hour and 1 hour and a half. This will let you stroll without rushing, admire the views, and learn about the history of the place.

Villa San Michele was the former residence of the Swedish doctor and writer Axel Munthe, who built it on the ruins of an ancient chapel and a Roman villa. The villa and its gardens house a fascinating collection of antiquities that Munthe gathered over time, and its history reflects his love for Capri, archaeology, and beauty. It is a place with unique charm and a very special atmosphere.

To avoid the crowds and enjoy more pleasant weather, I recommend visiting Villa San Michele early in the morning, just after opening, or late in the afternoon. As for the time of year, spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal, when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is mild.

Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the site and the design of the gardens with stairs and uneven paths, Villa San Michele presents some difficulties for people with reduced mobility or wheelchair users. The villa tries to make it as accessible as possible, but some areas may be challenging. It is recommended to contact the villa directly for updated information about accessible areas. Their phone number is +39 081 837 1401.

Once you are in Anacapri, do not miss the Church of San Michele Arcangelo (famous for its majolica floor), Mount Solaro (which you can reach by chairlift for spectacular views), and the Devil's Chair. You can also enjoy the shops and restaurants in the center of Anacapri.

I recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and cobbled paths. Do not forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the Gulf of Naples and the coast of Anacapri, as well as the beautiful gardens. If you are interested in Axel Munthe's life, you can read his book 'The Story of San Michele' before your visit for a more enriching experience.