Things To Do
in Capua
Capua is a historic town in Campania, Italy, nestled in the plains near Caserta with a rich Roman and medieval heritage. Its silhouette blends ancient ruins, a venerable cathedral, and winding lanes that reveal layers of history. The city is a gateway to the surrounding countryside, including the Volturno valley and nearby hills.
Expect a quiet pace, delicious Campanian flavors, and a sense of stepping back in time as you explore Capua's storied streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Capua and check into your charming hotel located in the heart of the historic center. Spend some time settling in and enjoying a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto. Stroll around the piazza to get your bearings and soak in the local atmosphere.
Visit the stunning Capua Cathedral, known for its intricate baroque architecture and beautiful artwork. Afterward, explore the nearby ruins of the ancient amphitheater, where gladiators once fought, and learn about the city's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, sampling regional specialties such as bufala mozzarella.
Relax with a leisurely evening walk along the River Volturno, where you can take in the picturesque views of the sunset. Dine at a cozy restaurant, savoring local dishes paired with fine Italian wine. Conclude your day by indulging in a gelato from a nearby gelateria.
Start your day with a visit to the Museo Archeologico di Capua, where you can discover artifacts from the ancient Roman Empire. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can bring the history to life through fascinating stories. Enjoy some fresh pastries from a nearby bakery to keep your energy up.
Take a guided tour of the ancient amphitheater; it's one of the largest in Italy and offers a marvelous insight into Roman engineering. Spend some time at the nearby Castel di Capua, an ancient fortress with splendid views of the city. Grab a light lunch at a nearby café, enjoying the local vibes.
Attend a local cultural event if available, such as a theater performance or live music in the square. Experience the authentic flavors of Capua during dinner at a family-run eatery, featuring homemade pasta dishes. Enjoy the nightlife by sampling more gelato or enjoying an aperitivo in a lively bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ride | $2-3 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $5-8 |
| 🍝Three-course meal for two | $30-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and medieval heritage
- Pleasant countryside and accessible nature nearby
- Delicious Campanian cuisine and fresh dairy products
- Compact size ideal for walking and easy exploration
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions have seasonal hours
- Public transportation can be less frequent on Sundays
- Smaller town feel may mean fewer English-speaking services
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mi può consigliare un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Capua
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Roman arch in the historic center, perfect for capturing ancient stonework and the surrounding square.
Remnants of Capua’s ancient entertainment venue, offering dramatic angles and a sense of imperial grandeur in golden hour light.
The cathedral’s façade and the surrounding plazzas provide architectural contrasts between older stonework and modern life.
Narrow, winding streets with stucco facades and small balconies, ideal for candid street photography and details.
Food in Capua
Capua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty pasta and chickpea stew, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil; a comforting staple found in many trattorie around Capua.
Must-Try!
Creamy buffalo mozzarella paired with ripe tomatoes and basil, showcasing the region’s prized dairy products.
A flaky, layered pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream, a beloved Campanian dessert often enjoyed with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olive oils, bread, and seasonal specialties from local farmers.
A street-food cone of assorted fried delights—seafood, morsels of vegetables, and crocché—perfect for a quick taste of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common when meeting someone; use formal addresses (Signore/Signora) with surnames until invited to use first names.
Keep hands visible on the table, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and try local specialties with curiosity and patience.
Casual about time in social settings, but arrivals for organized tours or reservations are best on time.
Carry some cash for small markets or local vendors; many places accept cards, but some smaller venues may prefer cash.
Safety
Tipping in Capua
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a small tip in restaurants is appreciated but not always mandatory; round up the bill or add 5-10% for good service. Cash is commonly accepted; many places also take cards (credit/debit) with occasional surcharges for certain payment methods.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees and gardens; great for outdoor walking tours and early-season markets.
Hot and dry days; plan outdoor activity for morning or late afternoon; enjoy gelato and shaded squares; chance of heat waves.
Delightful moderate weather, harvest flavors, and pleasant light for photography and countryside walks.
Cool but not severe; some attractions may have limited hours; cozy cafés and seasonal pastries are popular.
Capua at Night
Hiking in Capua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the Volturno, suitable for scenic walks and gentle hill climbs.
Ridgetop and forested trails near the Matese massif offering panoramic views and nature immersion.
Short loops through olive groves and farmland around Capua for a relaxed hike with regional scenery.
Airports
How to reach Capua by plane.
Major international gateway about 60-70 km from Capua; connected by train and road via the A1 and local services.
Large international hub about 2-3 hours by car or train; useful for long-haul flights and connections.
Secondary Rome airport with shorter domestic and European connections, accessible by road and rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families with children explore the city’s parks, churches, and markets, often seeking relaxed dining options.
Nearby universities and schools bring a student presence to certain neighborhoods and cafes.
Long-time residents contribute to Capua’s intimate cultural scene and preserve historic traditions.
Visitors interested in Roman and medieval ruins, local cuisine, and peaceful Italian town life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely followed; local clubs, informal matches, and casual games are common in public spaces and parks.
Prized for countryside routes; cyclists enjoy scenic roads through olive groves and farmland around Capua.
Local clubs and public courts offer opportunities for recreational play and social matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Capua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy pasta with vegetables, fresh mozzarella and tomato dishes, and vegetarian soups; ask about broths and cheese rennet to ensure no hidden animal products in broths.