The tiny Isle of Capri shines like a jewel in the Mediterranean, just 60 miles off the coast from Naples. Ever since it served as a royal vacation destination for emperors 2,000 years ago, it has been a favorite destination for tourists from all over the world.

Spend a few days there, and you’ll experience the true beauty of the island and the people early mornings and evenings, avoiding the tourist crowds. Late autumn and early winter temperatures range from 60s daytime and 40s nights, just right for strolling and sightseeing.

Visitors get to Capri from the Italian mainland by regularly scheduled ferry and hydrofoil services. It takes 40 minutes by hydrofoil and 80 minutes by ferry. You can also go to and from the neighboring isle of Sorrento via the same system. Private cars and trucks are generally forbidden on Capri. Although there are taxis, buses and a funicular railway, the best way to experience Capri is on foot at your own pace.

The award-winning Hotel Weber Ambassador is on a cliff overlooking Capri’s Marina Piccola beach. Steps bring visitors down to the sandy ocean shore, with small natural coves for those who want quiet and privacy.

A sea-view room is about $250 per night. Hotel Weber Ambassador, Via Marina Piccola 80073 Capri, 39 081 8370141, hotelweber.com/en

Ristorante Terrazza Ciro a Mare is at beachside near the hotel. Dining is informal and the area is called Bagni Internazionali (International Bathing). Dining features fresh-caught seafood and traditional Italian favorites. Ristorante Terrazza Ciro a Mare, Via Marina Piccola, 95, 80073 Capri, 39 0818370264, bagni-internazionali.com

There are almost endless places to enjoy on Capri. Consider just a few: Chair Lift Monte Solaro offers a breathtaking ride up the mountain cliffside. There are views of Capri, surrounding ocean and Italian mainland. The ride takes 12 minutes.

The world-famous Blue Grotto is a must-see for every visitor. The boat ride through the cathedral-like natural rocky formations set in deep blue ocean water is a photo and memory experience of a lifetime.

Piazza Umberto I at Capri Town center is the parklike place to people watch. You'll see locals, tourists, backpackers, retirees and families. At night, young people frequent the nearby clubs and cafes, featuring lively music and general revelry. This is the place for swinging seniors to be in the early evening, after the day-trippers leave, to see and enjoy real Capri.

Via Camerelle is a narrow commercial street in Capri Town that goes back to Roman times. The ancient columns originally flanked little cave-like homes, now all specialty shops. Shoppers can find the best in leather, antiques, fine art and rare books.

The Gardens of Augustus is a mile-long carpet of beautiful flowers. The dramatic setting dips down in terraces from mountainside to the beaches, offering breathtaking views in all directions.

The Isle of Capri has been famous in song and story for centuries. Today's visitor will find it just as enchanting as Roman Emperor Augustus did when he decided to make his summer home on the sparkling jewel in the Gulf of Naples.