Capri funicular, Funicular railway in Marina Grande, Italy
The Capri funicular links Marina Grande harbor to the town center, ascending steep limestone cliffs and passing through lemon groves during its short journey. The system operates with a counterbalanced cable mechanism where two cars meet and pass each other midway along the route.
The system opened in 1907 and has operated continuously since then, becoming a symbol of modern connectivity on the island. It was built during the period when Capri gained prominence as a destination and needed reliable transport from the port to the town center.
The funicular has been the beating heart of the island's connection between port and town for generations, shaping how residents and travelers move through their day. Passengers experience it as the natural threshold from the maritime world below to the lively old town above, where the pace of life noticeably shifts.
The ride lasts just minutes, getting you quickly from the waterfront to town center without tackling steep stairs or winding paths on foot. The cars are modest in size and fill up fast, so arriving early helps during busy summer months when wait times can build.
The funicular works by a clever balance system where the two cars act as counterweights for each other, making the mechanism highly efficient. This engineering approach allows the older transport to operate reliably up steep slopes without excessive energy consumption.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
