Italy’s Capri is stunning but packed in the summer.

What really stands out, though, is the friendly and accommodating service.

Its nice to walk around Capri now, after the day-trippers have left, she told us.

Aerial view of Marina Piccola in Capri, Italy

Credit:Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure

We paused to gaze at the people waiting for hours to get into the famed Blue Grotto.

Instead, we sailed over to a secluded grotto and dove into the sea.

I only wish we had more time to enjoy the rooftop pool.

Street view of Il Capri Hotel

Marine Billet/Courtesy of Il Capri Hotel

Perhaps the sphinx will bring us good luck and let us join the islands habitues.

Interior of the lobby at Hotel La Palma

Giulio Ghirardi/Courtesy of Hotel La Palma

Interior of a guest room at Hotel La Palma

Giulio Ghirardi/Courtesy of Hotel La Palma

View of Capri from the pool at Il Capri Hotel

Jonathan Froines/Courtesy of Il Capri Hotel

Boat tour of Capri, Italy from the water

Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure