Hotel La Palma, Capri’s oldest hotel offers new experiences

A Capri icon returns with fresh flavours, local partnerships, and a packed summer calendar

Hotel La Palma stands on Capri’s main street, its doors open again from April 16. The building dates back over two centuries. It has seen Capri change, but it remains a fixture for visitors and locals.

You step inside and notice the quiet. Fifty rooms, each with a balcony or terrace. Eighteen suites. The La Palma Suite sits at the top. Francis Sultana’s design choices keep the past in view. He uses clean lines and soft colours. Each room feels like a retreat.

You wake up to the sound of the island. Breakfast on your terrace. The scent of coffee. The view - Capri’s rooftops and the sea. You think about the day ahead.

Food is central at Hotel La Palma. Gennaro’s Restaurant serves classic Mediterranean dishes. Chef Giovanni Bavuso uses local ingredients. He works with farmers and fishermen. The menu changes with the seasons. You taste the difference in each plate.

Bianca Rooftop Carne & Crudo opens this year. It offers steak, seafood, and a raw bar. You eat under the stars. The view stretches across Capri. The bar serves cocktails late into the night. You watch the street below.

Down at Marina Piccola, La Palma Beach Club sits by the water. You eat fresh fish. You swim. The atmosphere is relaxed. No dress codes. No fuss.

Hotel La Palma teams up with Italian brands. Valextra, E Marinella, Isaia, and Bellavista join for the season. You see Valextra’s special handbags at a trunk show. E Marinella’s seamstresses visit for Venerdì Italiano. Isaia hosts a tailoring workshop. Bellavista pours Franciacorta wines at tastings.

The hotel’s events fill the week. Live music on Fridays. Brunch on Sundays. From mid-July, Dolce Vita takes over with a DJ and aperitivo. On some nights, the rooftop turns into an '80s party.

Imelda Shllaku, the general manager, says the focus is on local flavours and sustainable choices. Menus change with what’s fresh. The hotel works to cut waste and support the region.

You leave Hotel La Palma with a taste of Capri. You remember the food, the music, the view. You think about coming back. Would you do anything different next time?

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