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Positano Travel Guide

When I scrolled through Pinterest years ago, a stunning photograph of the cliffs of Positano showed up on my feed.  I had no idea a place as beautiful as this was real, let alone a place that I would visit in my lifetime.  I did tons of research before visiting Positano and experienced the town myself this year. Positano is not the easiest place to travel to, so I made this Positano Travel Guide you’ll need to read when planning your Positano Trip!

How to Get to Positano

Unlike many major cities in Italy, there is no direct airport in Positano. You will have to fly in to either Rome or Naples Airports. From there you should make your way to a closer town near Positano like Sorrento or Salerno. I have listed the many ways you can get there below:

Train : There is no direct train to Positano, but you can take the train from either Naples Airport or Rome Airport to a closer city on the Amalfi Coast like Sorrento or Salerno.

Ferry:  During the day you can take a ferry to Positano from either Naples, Sorrento, Salerno, and Amalfi. Just note that luggage will most likely have an additional cost to your ticket.

Bus:  The SITA bus to Positano is the cheapest way to get to Positano. For 2 Euro you can take the 45-minute bus from Sorrento to Positano. The views from the bus are really spectacular too! Be sure to sit on the right side of the bus.

Private Car Transfer:  The most expensive, but efficient way to get to Positano is hiring a private car transfer from Naples Airport to Positano. The cost is around 100E+ but definitely the easiest.

My experience getting to Positano

From the long journey, I had to get to Positano, taking a private car is almost worth it! I landed in Naples Airport at 7:30 PM. The ferry and direct bus service from Naples to Sorrento already had stopped service for the day. The only option I had was to take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Garibaldi Train Station to Sorrento.

I had heard this train was a little sketchy, and those rumors are very true. I felt uncomfortable the whole hour on the train.

Our luggage gave it away that we were tourists so we had to be highly aware and suspicious of the people around us to avoid being robbed. As the train neared Sorrento the safer we began to feel.

Nothing happened to us, but being aware of your surroundings is very important as professional pick-pockets roam this train! I wouldn’t take this train again. Once in Sorrento, we spent the night at a hotel and headed for the SITA bus to Positano the next morning.

To avoid this train, be sure to fly into Naples before 7 PM so you can either take a ferry or direct bus right into Sorrento! From Sorrento, you can either take another ferry or the SITA bus directly to Positano.

Where to Stay in Positano

Positano is definitely the photogenic star of the Amalfi Coast. Anywhere you stay will have stunning views (most likely with terraces). There are really only 2 main roads that run through Positano, so carrying your luggage through the narrow alleyways is inevitable whether you stay at the top or bottom of the hill.

I stayed on the quieter Fornillo side of Positano. My views weren’t what you see on the typical Positano Postcards, but nevertheless had the same amount of stunning impact.

I would recommend staying on this side of the town. Not only is it a little quieter, but you can save some money as it is a little further from Spiaggia Grande beach which acts as the center of town.

If you aren’t concerned about budget, then you will not have a hard time finding a stunning place to call home for a couple of days, or weeks if you’re lucky!

Getting Around Positano & the Amalfi Coast

Walking/ Climbing: So if you have done any research on Positano, you know there are steps everywhere! One night we had dinner on the beach and had to climb over 200 steps to get back to our Bed & Breakfast.

I tried counting for an exact amount but lost track after 200! You can avoid the climb by veering on the main road, but will take you double the time to get anywhere.

While there are many steps, I didn’t find it as exhausting as I thought it would be! Positano is also a small town. If anything you can walk the entire town within 20 minutes on the main road.

The fun of course is getting lost within the narrow alleyways off the main road. There you’ll find stunning cute vignettes, cats, and stunning views of the coast!

Bus:  There is a public bus that goes along the main road in Positano if get tired from walking around. These busses will also take you along the coast to the other villages! This is an option if you would like to do a day trip to another town.

Ferry: A faster and more scenic way to get along the coast is by taking ferries. Travel Mar is one of the main companies that offer multiple ferries to the majority of towns.

The cost varies on what town you’re visiting. For example, a one-way to Capri is about 20 Euros while a one-way to Amalfi is 8 Euro.

Vespa:  You can rent a Vespa for a day from Positano and ride along the coast! Only for the brave, however. While there is only one main road, the cliffs turn abruptly and the view looking down may scare some away. Definitely not for the faint of heart.

Private Car:  While the most expensive, renting a private car with a driver is always an option!

What Kind of Food to Expect

It is no surprise that the food will be Italian, but expect a lot of seafood! There aren’t many grocery stores to buy your own food to make. I remember passing by 2 stores that were a little pricy.  I even spoke to a local and she has to go to Sorrento once a week to buy her groceries! So I wouldn’t plan on making your own food.

My Favorite Spots:

Bar Buca di Bacco: Casual Spot right on the main beach! In the morning you can get your coffee & croissant fix and during lunch a pizza and a glass of wine! A more affordable option amongst the other sit-down restaurants on the main beach.

Ristorante Saraceno D’Oro:  A sit-down restaurant on the Fornillo side of Positano. I loved the energy of this place. You could tell the people working were just having a good time! A refreshing vibe compared to a lot of the ‘stuffier’ restaurants.

Budgeting for Positano

Positano on a Budget? How Much It Really Costs to Travel to the Amalfi Coast

Visiting these gorgeous towns along the coast isn’t just reserved for the rich and famous. You can easily enjoy Positano & Amalfi on a budget, but don’t expect your accommodations to be grand.

While the average price per night in Positano is around 300 USD- 500USD, if you book early enough you can find some beds and breakfasts for around 150USD. Expect higher rates during the high season from June-September.

The food in Positano is also on the pricer side if you choose to sit down during lunch and dinner. For lunch, I usually went to Bar Buca di Bacco , a casual spot along the beach, and had a pizza or sandwich that held me over for dinner! The food in Positano is so fresh, having fresh seafood is a must for dinner!

What to Pack

Just like any city in Italy, it can get cold in the winter and hot in the summer. To be safe during the summer months, a light jacket can be a lifesaver if it gets chilly at night. Also, with the many gift shops lining the street you can always buy something!

Also, a pair of comfortable shoes will be necessary to climb the many steps of Positano! I personally brought 3 pairs of shoes: one sneaker, a low espadrilles wedge, and an espadrilles flat which was perfect for 5 days in Positano.

Keep Your Euros Handy

Carry cash on you at all times as some businesses don’t accept credit cards, especially in the small towns along the Amalfi Coast. You can get by with just a credit card but be sure to carry euros for small purchases like water.

Things to Do in Positano

Unlike Rome where there are a plethora of historical sights to see, the Amalfi coast is reserved for relaxation (except the many stairs that you have to walk every day).

Spend your days at the beach. There are two beaches in Positano. Spiaggia Grande is the main beach that acts as the center of town! If you are looking for something quieter head to Fornillo, just a 5-10 minute walk along the coastal pathway.

Take a ride around the Amalfi Coast on a private boat tour

Enjoy fresh Italian food and have more than one negroni during aperitivo.

Take a day trip to Capri

Capture the Views from every angle

Design you’re own custom sandals (even men too)

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15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Positano, Italy

Home » Blog » Europe » Italy » 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Positano, Italy

Nestled in an enclave along Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast, Positano is a colorful gem of a town built into the hillside. In this guide, we’ve rounded up all the top things to do in Positano, plus essential tips for your visit.

The sight of Positano’s colorful buildings cascading down a cliffside into the indigo waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea creates postcard-worthy image of the Amalfi Coast.

Positano has a way of captivating any type of traveler. The hillside town boasts colorful buildings filled with casual to opulent bars and restos and a wealth of intimate alleyways to explore. All centered around a heavenly beach, perfectly lined with parasols.

In this article we are covering all the best things to do in Positano, how to get around, where to eat and where to stay. Plus, we’ve got some insider tips so you can make the most out of your visit.

Positano Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Positano, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• Best time to visit
• How many days do you need
• How to get there
• How to get around
• Tips for visiting
• Where to eat
• Where to stay
• What to pack

Top things to do in Positano

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Positano, here are our top recommendations: 

• Explore the Amalfi Coast by boat
• Hike the Path of the Gods
• Enjoy a seafood lunch at Da Adolfo
• Dine with a view
• Relax at the beach

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Positano. 

1. Explore the Amalfi Coast by boat

There are several ways you can go about admiring the Amalfi Coast’s jagged cliff sides, cerulean beaches, and colorful towns : ferry, small group boat tours, or by private boat.

Taking the ferry

Ferries are by far the cheapest and best way to get around during the warmer months. Plus you can avoid all the traffic on the narrow roads.

To book a ferry, head down to the ferry terminal at the pier. There are kiosks set up all along the edge for various ferry companies offering rides to neighboring towns like Amalfi, out to Capri or back to Sorrento/Naples on the opposite side of the peninsula. 

There is also a boat rental stand on the beach where you can buy your ferry tickets.  

Ferries between Positano and Amalfi run five times a day from about 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A one way ticket will cost just 10€ per passenger. 

Boat tours of the Amalfi Coast

For a more adventurous experience, join a local on an Amalfi Coast boat tour . This half-day excursion will include food and drinks, plus you’ll have time for leisure activities like snorkeling. 

Private boat tours are a luxurious and memorable way to travel the coast. Although pricey, all things considering, if you’re traveling in a group of 4-6 people, the price becomes much more attractive. 

Renting a boat in Positano

You can also hire a private boat with or without a driver, directly from the beach in Positano. Just head down to the beach at the town’s center and look for the stands offering “boat rentals”. They will have loads of options and price points to choose from. 

In my experience, we were always able to rent a boat immediately. However, if you are traveling during high season (June – August) you may consider arranging your boat hire the day before, just to be sure they have something available for you. 

2. Hike the Path of the Gods

• Location: Bomerano to Locelle
• Distance: 10.2 km (6.4 miles), point-to-point
• Elevation gain : 600 meters (1,961 ft)
• Difficulty rating: Moderate
• Timing: 3-4 hours
• View trail notes on Alltrails

Hugging the coast’s dramatic cliff sides, the Path of the Gods ( Il Sentiero degli Dei ) is one of the most beautiful walks on the Amalfi Coast and in all of Italy .

You’ll follow ancient mule routes, watching as the scenery evolves from lush terraces to sweeping views over the Amalfi and Mediterranean Coast. 

The trail is straightforward and well marked, however there are several different ways you can hike this trail and important logistics you’ll want to know beforehand. We cover everything in our detailed Path of the Gods Trail Guide . 

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve spent a collective 6+ months living in and traveling around Italy, and we’ve been able to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We’ve compiled our experience to create the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary that hits the top destinations for first time visitors. Our itinerary covers the highlights of this coastal gem while based in Positano for one week . 

We’ll send you our complete 1 week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  Amalfi Coast itinerary  today!

3. Eat the freshest seafood for lunch at Da Adolfo

Tucked away along the private, pebbled Laurito Beach, Ristorante Da Adolfo is an unforgettable private dining experience and a Positano institution. 

This culinary venture is a full day feat where you’ll spend part of the day relaxing on their private beach and the other part sampling food and wine from their curated menu of specialties.

Good to know : They only take reservations via phone (+39 089875022). If you want a beach chair/umbrella be sure to book that well in advance with your lunch reservation.

How to get there : The only way to access the restaurant is by their free boat shuttle service with a reservation. Make your way to the port in Positano and look for the small motorboat with a vibrant red fish on top that reads “ Da Adolfo ”. 

It leaves regularly from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and returns from 4 p.m. onward. The ride is only 5-minutes down the coast to the restaurant.

Note that this restaurant (as with many others) is only open during the “summer season” in Positano, which is usually from early-May to mid-October. 

4. Dine with a view

Built directly into the panoramic cliff sides, there is no better place to find incredible food with equally pleasing views. These restaurants offer some of the best views (and food!) in town.

• Buca di Bacco : Genuine Italian food that shines through its simplicity. Ask for a table on their rooftop terrace!
• Il Tridente : Situate yourself in the center of Positano’s cliffs as you indulge in Neapolitan cuisine.
• Maestro : Panoramic views of the sea hugging Positano from a fine dining atmosphere.
• La Sponda : This Michelin-star restaurant overlooks Positano’s colorful cliffside in a candlelit setting.
• Da Gabrisa : Their terrace has sweeping coastal views with a refined menu. 
• Li Galli Bistro : A cheap and cheerful little spot, right on the main road leading up from the town center. This place only has a handful of road-side outdoor tables, but the views are unmatched!

5. Relax at the beach

Lazing on Positano’s pebbled beaches is a beloved Italian pastime that can be experienced two different ways: the classic lido or typical beach style.

Each beach will have a lido (beach club) and a (very) small area with free access where you can spread your towel for the day. 

• La Scogliera Positano : prices start at €200
• Pupetto Beach Club : prices start at €50
• Arienzo Beach Club Positano : prices start at €280 
• Lido One Fire Beach : contact for pricing

6. Take a cooking class

Momma Dora and Papà Luigi have offered their Home Cooking Class for nearly 40 years at La Tagliata.

It’s one of the best ways to enjoy authentic Italian food , and they fit you right into their family with drinks, singing, and dancing.  

You’ll hand pick ingredients from their garden and cook up a typical Italian lunch: bruschetta, potato gnocchi, cherry tomato sauce, eggplant parmigiana, and tiramisu. Once everything is prepared, you’ll enjoy everything you’ve made on their outdoor terrace.

7. Shop for custom leather sandals

The art of handmade leather sandals is an ancient tradition in Positano.

Artisan shops are dotted around town where you can buy premade styles or create your own custom leather sandals on the spot in about 30-minutes. 

You can personalize them by choosing the style, colors, details, and even heel height, creating the perfect, one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.

8. Try limoncello

When life gave Italians giant Amalfi lemons, they made limoncello.

This Italian lemon-infused liqueur is a signature to Southern Italy. Limoncello is most commonly served as a digestif after dinner and oftentimes on the house after a meal at Positano restaurants. 

You can find limoncello in many places around Positano, including in all the shops and restaurants. If you’re looking for a unique experience, why not have a local teach you how to make it by hand on this Limoncello & Lemon Marmalade Experience .

9. Scoot around the coast on a Vespa

Zipping around on a Vespa, taking in seaside vistas, and feeling the breeze along the famous windy roads is an experience most travelers dream of when visiting the Amalfi Coast.

There are a handful of places where you can rent a shiny new scooter for your adventure, but Positano Scooter is by far the best. You can rent one for up to a week and return it right in town.

Important notes : In order to rent a scooter, you need an International Driving Permit. It’s also worth noting that the roads on the coast are busy with steep climbs and hairpin turns, which is something to consider if you’ve never driven a scooter before.

As long as you have a valid driver’s license in your home country, you can get your international driving permit here , for just $30 USD. They have urgent processing available to get your digital license within 15 minutes. 

10. Enjoy aperitivo on a rooftop

Taking in the views with an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink that usually comes with snacks) is a staple way to wind down a sunny day on Positano’s coast. These rooftop terraces have the best views to watch the sun go down:

• Il Tridente Cocktail Bar : Cut into the hill with atmospheric cliffside views, this bar is a stunner for drinks and aperitivo.
• Aldo’s Cocktail Bar : This sultry bar perched on top of the 5-star La Sirenuse will reel you in with its two specialties: oysters and champagne.
• Fly Lounge Bar : This stone-built bar doubles as a gastro-pub. From their terrace watch the sun set over Spiaggia Grande and all of Positano.
• Franco’s Bar : White and azure opulence coat this cliffside bar. The menu pays homage to the golden age of fine spirits and bites for aperitivo.
• Bianca Bar : This botanical bar features ingredients pulled directly from their garden that are infused into their cocktails. 

Sipping on a spritz with a view will surely show you why Positano is one of the most romantic places in Italy .

11. Dance the night away at Music on the Rocks

Right off the Spiaggia Grande Beach is a unique nightclub carved directly into a cliffside . 

It’s the perfect place to dance the night away inside one of the Amalfi Coast’s few disco clubs. The party will go all night, but I recommend getting there early to grab drinks and a bite on the terrace above to take in the sunset.

12. Discover the Santa Maria Assunta Church

This church is a quintessential landmark of the Positano cliffside and an important piece of the town’s cultural, religious, and architectural landscapes. 

Good to know : Modest dress is required for churches and religious sites. Be sure to have your legs and shoulders covered if you wish to go inside.

13. Explore Amalfi

Just a stone’s throw from Positano is the core of the famed coast, Amalfi town. It’s full of medieval history and enticing sites.

How to get there: You can get there by bus from Positano, but note buses can be full with lengthy transit times in high season, so patience is a must. You can purchase your bus ticket at various shops in town.

To avoid all the traffic on the roads, opt to take the ferry. It costs just €10 (~$11.08 USD) for a one way ticket and takes 15-20 minutes to get to Amalfi from Positano. You can purchase your ferry tickets at the Lucibello transportation booth on the Spiaggia Grande Beach.

Things to do in Amalfi

• Wander the narrow streets : The maze of charming passageways has shops, restaurants, historic sites, and museums.  
• Visit the Duomo di Sant’Andrea : An ornate cathedral with an impressive crypt and a collection of artifacts.
• Relax on the beach: The edge of town is cradled by a pebbled beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or kayaking.
• Hike to the Valle delle Ferriere : A serene nature reserve with lush flora and fauna, and cascading waterfalls.
• Marvel at the Emerald Grotto : Stalactites and stalagmites encase this vibrant pool illuminated by reflected sun rays. 

14. Visit the Terrace of Infinity in Ravello

This picturesque terrace within the 11th-century Villa Cimbrone is one of the most sought-after views along the Amalfi Coast lined with interesting marble busts.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss the nearby Villa Rufolo for the gardens and famous views over Ravello, as well as the Piazza Centrale and Duomo di Ravello.

How to get there : Take the 30-minute ferry to Amalfi, then take the bus to Ravello from there. The bus ride is about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. You can purchase your bus tickets at the Tabacchi (tobacco shop) just off the Piazza Flavio Gioia where the buses pick up. 

15. Day trip to Capri

An island just off the point of the Amalfi Peninsula, Capri is an easily accessible and exciting day trip from Positano.

How to get there: Ferries depart frequently from the main port in Positano (at Spiaggia Grande) for an affordable rate. 

Capri gets busy, so try and book an early departure. Otherwise, you can book a guided boat tour with a local skipper.

Things to do in Capri

• Take the gondola to Monte Solaro : This mountain peak has 360-degree views of Capri and war remnants at the summit.
• Explore and shop in Capri Town : Wander boutiques, pick up some gelato, or leisure at a beach. 
• Take in the views at the Gardens of Augustus : This seaside botanical garden has sweeping coastal views and peaceful footpaths.
• Take a boat ride around the island : Marvel at famous rock archways, jagged cliff sides, and pass by a scenic lighthouse. 
• Tour the Blue Grotto : A popular blue cave illuminated in an eerie blue hue by reflected sunlight.

Best time to visit Positano

Positano is typically experienced from April to October when everything is open, the beaches are ripe for relaxing, and the town is lively.

Note June through August is peak season , and although it’s the most popular time to go, I recommend you avoid these months if possible . It will be VERY crowded, prices are at an all time high, and any accommodation bookings need to be made about 12 months in advance.

The best time to visit Positano is mid-September to October when everything is still open, the weather is pleasant, but the summer crowds have died down a bit.

You can visit Positano during the winter, but it’s not recommended since it’s not “open” this time of year. From October to March, the ferries aren’t running and most establishments are closed for the season.

Psst! Find out the best time to visit Italy based on seasonal weather patterns in each region and your personal travel style.

How many days do you need in Positano?

Anything from a half-day to 3 days in Positano is an ample time to experience the town . The time you spend is dependent on what you’re doing and what the rest of your itinerary looks like.

Here’s what one half to 3 days looks like in Positano:

• Half day : Shopping, relaxing at the beach or a lido
• 1 day : Beach or Path of the Gods hike, sunset dinner with drinks
• 2 days : Shopping and beach time, Path of the Gods hike, and a visit to Amalfi or Ravello
• 3 days : Spend quality time getting to experience Positano and tour more of the Amalfi Coast, perhaps a day trip to Capri

How to get to Positano

There are no direct public transport options to get to Positano, so you’ll need to use a combination of ferry, train, or bus to get there. This is best done from Naples or Sorrento.

From Naples

The most seamless and convenient way is with a private transfer from the airport in Naples. However, this is also going to be the most expensive method. 

Taking the bus from Naples will be your cheapest option, but with lots of stops and a cramped bus, it’s by far the least convenient. 

If you don’t mind taking a scenic route, you can take a ferry all the way from Naples (which will likely have a stop and transfer in either Sorrento or Capri). There is also an option to take a train from Naples to Sorrento, and then get a ferry from Sorrento to Positano. 

From Sorrento

Sorrento is another popular hub with easy access to Positano. 

From Naples, the Campania Express has a direct line to Sorrento that is quicker than the regular tourist buses. The ride is about 30-minutes and will be almost entirely tourists. The staff guides you through the entire way and there will be plenty of others hauling large bags. 

From there, you can either book a ferry from Sorrento to Positano , or buy a bus ticket. The latter is a more budget-friendly option, but I’d recommend taking the ferry for ease and comfort. You can purchase bus tickets in Sorrento at the Circumvesuviana station .

How to get around in Positano

Positano is quite small, so the town itself is very walkable. The historic center of town is closed to traffic during the summer months, so expect to walk a lot .

Because it’s perched on a cliffside, the walking routes are often steep with lots and lots of stairs . If you don’t mind that, definitely walk as much as you can. However, if taking the stairs isn’t ideal, there are a handful of other ways you can get around the main areas using public transport. 

The SITA buses make it easy to get around Positano and neighboring towns. This is a great option if you get tired of climbing all of those stairs.

A good alternative to the bus situation is the ferry service that runs between the coastal towns. There are several ferry companies that operate services along the coast during the “season” (April – October). You can find out schedules and purchase tickets directly at the ferry terminal .

Taxis are available but note they’re quite expensive and there are no rideshare options in Positano. One day I asked what it would cost to take us from the bus stop in the town center to the top of the hill (a literal 5 minute drive) and was quoted 30€ fixed price for a taxi.  

How to use the bus to get around Positano

The Internal Positano route is the easiest and cheapest way to get around Positano if you get tired of climbing stairs. 

The route makes a loop around Positano and runs every 20 minutes or so, so you’re never waiting too long. The cost of a one-way ticket is just 1.30€, you can purchase your bus tickets from the Tabacci across the street from the bus stop. 

Tip: If you know you’ll be taking the bus more than once that day, you can purchase 2 sets of tickets at once. That way you won’t need to stand in line for tickets a second time. 

There is also a 10€ all day bus pass you can purchase for unlimited rides in a day. However, we found we were never using the bus more than twice in a day (which is only 2.60€ in total) so the bus pass wasn’t necessary. 

There are 2 main bus stops in town: 

• Look for the sign on the front of the bus to see which route it is. You can always ask the driver as well if you are unsure. 
• You’ll have to look at the schedule posted for these buses.

Do note that the bus services are often jam-packed in the summer months and don’t run exactly on schedule due to traffic congestion. You may wind up standing for the entirety of your journey as there are only about 8 seats per bus (the rest is standing room only). 

Tickets are sold at Tabacci shops around town.

Also note, the buses will not let you on with food—including gelato—in hand.

Tips for visiting Positano

Here are some key things to know when planning your trip to Positano.

• Make your accommodation reservations as soon as you decide to plan a trip to Positano. I booked 6 months in advance and had very few options for accommodation in May. We talked to many travelers who said they booked a year ahead of time. 
• It’s a good idea to plan some restaurant reservations or activites before you arrive, and book 1+ months out. 
• Be patient. The town gets extremely packed during the summer months so expect wait times for dinner, transit, etc. 
• Wear comfortable shoes. You can expect to walk and climb a lot of stairs. Stone steps and pathways are the “roads” of the town, as with most other towns on the Amalfi Coast. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and try to pack light!
• Make use of the porters. On the note of packing light, you may want to splurge on a “porter” to transport your baggage on arrival in Positano. The porters are from an official company, dressed in white and blue polos, that will meet you right at the ferry terminal and offer their services. It costs 10€ per bag, but we found it to be 100% worth it not to haul our own baggage up the 1,700+ stairs to our hotel. 
• Carry cash. Some businesses don’t accept cards. Plus, cash will come in handy for smaller purchases.
• Dinner is served late. Most restaurants aren’t open until 7 p.m. and serve dinner all the way until 11:30 p.m. (and sometimes later during the summer months).
• Use a VPN. Some of the official websites for transportation and attractions are only available in Italy, so you may need to use a VPN to buy tickets ahead of time. 
• Check the weather before you pack. Though we call it the “summer season,” Positano can still be quite chilly during early spring or late fall. I’ve visited 3 times, twice in May and once in September. Each time I’ve had vastly different weather and even been very cold in May. 

Where to eat in Positano

From Michelin-star fine dining to small eateries run by nonnas, these restaurants in Positano showcase the flavors of the region. 

• Casa e Bottega : Family-owned bistro with healthy breakfast and lunch options. (Think smoothie bowls and avocado toast!)
• Da Adolfo : Unique, decades-old restaurant on a private beach. The only way to access it is via a free boat ride with your reservation (look for the big red fish!) at the Positano pier. 
• Li Galli bistrot : A hillside bistro with some of the best views in town and only about 8 tables. Makes for a great lunch spot! (They also require you to order one dish per person to sit.) 
• Misaki Sushi : I stumbled upon this place when I wanted an early dinner and most of the other restaurants were still closed. It’s a great option if you’ve had your fill of carbs. 
• Il Tridente : Authentic meat and seafood dishes with unparalleled views over Positano.
• Saraceno d’Oro : This place wows with simple, local ingredients. Be sure to book a table on the terrace!
• Maestro : This fine dining treasure offers a farm-to-table menu specializing in regional cuisine. Note the restaurant has a boat service that will take you directly to Positano harbor. 
• La Sponda : This hillside hotspot is dubbed “ a culinary love letter to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Vesuvius. ”
• Chez Black : Beachside seafood restaurant with Mediterranean delicacies.
• NEXT2 : One of the best restaurants in Positano with a fine, sophisticated regional menu and a Michelin star.  
• Da Vincenzo Positano 1958 : Michelin star restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and dinner/wine pairings. Advanced reservations are encouraged.
• Collina Positano Bakery : Gelato and sweet treats to die for.  

Where to stay in Positano

No matter where you stay in Positano, it’s EXPENSIVE. An average hotel room in Positano is going to cost a heck of a lot more than it will even in Rome or Florence. Keep this in mind when looking at our suggestions below. 

If you want to stay in the town, you need to start booking at least 6 months in advance, but we heard of many people booking a year out. 

To save money, you may consider staying in nearby towns, like Montepertuso or Nocelle, that are easily accessed by bus. 

Hostel stay: Hostel Brikette

This hostel is at the top of Positano, which means the views from the terrace are superb. There are restaurants nearby, free Wifi, onsite bar, well-kept common area, and a shuttle service to the Praiano nightlife area.

Budget-friendly hotel: B&B Il Canneto

This is where I stayed on my most recent trip to Positano. While there is nothing particularly nice or luxurious about this hotel, it’s hard to beat the price to get a private hotel room with a sea view! It was also very high up, but across the street from a SITA bus stop, making it convenient to take the Internal Positano bus to get around. 

Mid-range Airbnb stay: Villa Capricorno

This elegant apartment has a massive terrace, full kitchen, and spacious living areas situated quietly on the west side of town, but still close to all the action. There are a few restaurants nearby, small shops for snacks, and bus stops that top off everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

Mid-range Airbnb stay: Villa Paradiso

Situated in a beautiful part of Positano, this villa is atmospheric and quiet, and only a short walk from the town center and beaches. The cobblestone terrace is a highlight of the property among its laid back coastal vibe. Enjoy a full service kitchen, onsite garden, free Wifi, nearby restaurants with your picturesque escape.

Mid-range hotel stay: Hotel Casa Albertina

This is another hotel I’ve personally stayed at and loved! It’s right in the center of Positano, between the two main beaches and close to all the best restaurants. The view from the terrace is worth the stay in and of itself. It also offers free Wifi, comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast (with unbeatable views!!). 

Splurge hotel: Casa Buonocore

As one of the most enamoring stays on Positano’s cliffside, this boutique hotel comes with a quiet garden, panoramic terrace with unparalleled views, and pristine rooms. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the beach and it’s near a variety of restaurants and bars.

Mega-splurge hotel: Le Sirenuse

You’ll recognize the setting of this idyllic hotel from your Instagram feed as it’s a place all of the influencers rave about. With unbeatable views, this iconic hotel perched into the hillside is one of a kind and just might be worth the splurge if you’re visiting Positano for a special occasion. 

What to pack for traveling to Positano

Don’t forget these essential items for a more comfortable trip to Positano.

• Super comfortable walking shoes or sandals
• Insulated water bottle
• Day pack – if you intend to hike the Path of the Gods
• Reef safe sunscreen
• Sport sandals or water shoes for rocky beaches
• Microfiber towel
• Camera or GoPro and tripod (trust us, you’ll want to capture these views!)
• Light jacket for chilly evenings

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Italy !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Round up of the best things to do in Positano

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Positano so you can see everything in one place.

• Take a cooking class
• Da Adolfo Positano
• Shop for custom leather sandals
• Try limoncello
• Positano beaches
• Scoot around the coast on a Vespa
• Rooftop terrace sunset
• Music on the Rocks
• Santa Maria Assunta Church
• Ravello / Terrace of Infinity
• Day trip to Capri

You may also like…

• Perfect 1 Week Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Hiking the Path of the Gods: Amalfi Coast Italy
• Rome to Naples: How to Get There + Tips
• Naples to Positano: How to Get There + Tips

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Things To Do In Positano: The Ultimate Guide

Positano is a pearl of a town, and a perfect, oh-so-glamorous base for exploring Italy’s Amalfi Coast. You’ve probably already seen photos of the town, even if you didn’t realize it, and mentally added it to your travel bucket list. After all, with picture-perfect views of houses in pastel hues tumbling down a mountainside to meet a sparkling blue sea, reminiscent of Cinque Terre , what ‘s not to love? But if you’re thinking of basing yourself here, there’s probably a question on your mind: are there things to do in Positano?

Sometimes, you can visit a place that’s heartrendingly beautiful, and be disappointed when you realize that the only activity on offer is sitting on your hotel balcony whilst staring a crab scuttling across some sand. It’s all very relaxing, and it’s great for all you crab enthusiasts out there, but it’s good when you can get off the balcony and explore a little. Soak in some local life. See some awesome views. Eat all the local dishes (spoiler: you will definitely want to do this in Italy).

Rest assured: there are plenty of things to do in Positano which will tick all those boxes, and more!

Psst! Thinking of checking out Sorrento too? Then have a look at my ultimate guide to things to do in Sorrento!

Things to do in Positano: the ultimate guide

I’ve compiled an ultimate Positano guide for you, in order for you to make the most of your time in this gorgeous town, and find the very best things to do in Positano. In fact, I’ve used my own personal experience of the town to find a mighty 22 activities which will have you relaxing and having fun, whilst enjoying the local culture.

Plus! I also have all the information you’ll need for the rest of your trip, including the best restaurants and hotels in Positano, and even a virtual walking tour of the town so you can see what it’s like, and start planning your own adventures!

When to visit Positano

As you’d expect, the Amalfi Coast has a long tourist season – given that the weather is so kind in this part of the world, it means that there’s plenty of months in which you can expect warm, Italian sunshine! The season begins around Easter, and sees visitors until late September/October.

However, in my experience, May is the best month to visit Positano. The weather is getting lovely and warm, without being at “burn to a crisp and die of dehydration when you’re walking up all those steps” levels (and trust me, there’s some pretty hardcore flights of steps in Positano ). In addition, it’s a lot quieter than July or August, and hotel prices are generally cheaper. May is also when the flowers are in full bloom, which is a definite consideration; the Amalfi Coast really shines when the flowers are out, and you’ll be walking under beautiful canopies of foliage and flowers on your way to the beach.

If you want to visit later in the year, September is your best best. The weather is still warm, the streets have quietened again, and the prices lower. The only thing that makes it less attractive a prospect than visiting in May is the lack of flowers, and a more unpredictable weather system.

How to get to Positano

The nearest airport to Positano is Naples Capodichino (NAP), but you’ll have to do a little bit of preparation for when you arrive. That’s because Positano is 50 kilometers away from Naples, and you’re going to have to arrange a transfer. How you do this is completely up to your budget, and how much time you want to take!

Car transfer

The easiest way to get to Positano is by arranging a private transfer . This is by far your most time-efficient option, as well as being a relaxing start for your trip – what could be better than putting your feet up, and watching Naples and Mt Vesuvius zip by! You could also rent a car, but it really depends on how confident you feel on taking on the Amalfi Coast’s roads – bear in mind that the coastal road is very tight and twisty, and you  will come face to face with a large bus at some point. If that’s no problem, you can arrange a hire at Naples Airport.

Public transport

If you’ve got some time on your hands, or you want to save the spending money for all that gelato, then you can get to Positano by public transport. The good news is that the journey isn’t complicated: it’s purely that it takes a few hours. But you’ll certainly be kept entertained by some stunning views!

The best way to get to Positano by public transport is to buy a ticket for the Sorrento shuttle bus, which is run by  CurreriViaggi . It’ll cost you €10 to get to Sorrento (book a ticket via their website), which is an  absolute bargain . They’re very comfy coaches, and regular departures will take you straight to Sorrento’s train/bus station.

Have a little wander around Sorrento if you like – and if you’re hungry, check out  Franco’s Pizzeria  just around the corner – then buy yourself an hourly bus ticket from the newsagents on the ground floor of the station. This is all you need to get to Positano: cross the road to where the buses are generally lurking, hop on one marked as going to Positano or Amalfi, validate your ticket in the small yellow machine located near the driver, and you’re sorted. Sit on the side opposite the driver for jaw-dropping views of the sea!

The best hotels in Positano

Positano is such a beautiful, relaxed place, and you’re going to want a hotel which takes that vibe and continues it. With that in mind, finding the right place for you and your budget is important! So let’s take a look at my top picks for the best hotels in Positano, for all price ranges!

If you’re looking for more options around the area, check out this guide to the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast for all budgets! Or if you love vacation rentals, check out these Amalfi Coast Airbnbs!

Le Sirenuse

Regarded as nothing less than the best hotel in town, and widely regarded as one of the best hotels in Italy… if not the world. It’s been welcoming guests since 1951, and treating them like family. It overlooks the beach, with private terraces available to you. The beds have top-of-the-line mattresses for a perfect night’s sleep. The restaurant is out of this world. The hotel is Instagram-worthy from every angle. What more could you want?

Villa Magia

With an eagle’s eye position in the hills over Positano, and offering exclusive rooms, outstanding 24-hour availability from the hotel’s staff, free room service, and a Turkish bath, the Villa Magia drips with luxury. This is a place to be seen!

Hotel Conca D’Oro

In a perfect position overlooking the coast, this hotel is renowned for good value whilst still being stylish, modern, and having a hint of luxury- hot tub, anyone? It’s truly a place where you can appreciate the beauty of Positano!

Hotel Eden Roc

Hello, lovely reader! Have a click on the above link to the Hotel Eden Roc, and have a look at that terrace. Now imagine yourself on there at sunset. Do I really need to say any more? But if that isn’t relaxing enough, check out the spa and the ultra-clean rooms!

La Rosa Dei Venti

Okay, so it may not have the spas and hot tubs of the more expensive hotels. But it does have absolutely stunning views, which are just as good as the ones in the posher places! Add clean rooms, friendly staff, and a price which is kinder on the wallet, and you’ve got a bargain hotel.

Hotel California

I’ll resist making a joke about being able to check out any time you like ( Eagles reference! ), but the Hotel California definitely has a lot to offer – the obligatory stunning views, a fantastic restaurant, and friendly staff who make you feel like royalty. You’ll never want to leave.

Things to do in Positano

Okay, you’ve made your way to Positano, and you’ve got your perfect place to stay. So without further ado, let’s look at the best things to do in Positano – the moments you’ll remember, the scenery you’ll photograph, and the souvenirs you’ll bring home!

1. Relax on Positano’s beach

Let’s face it – this is the first thing you’re going to want to do, especially as soon as you first set eyes on the sweep of sand nestled at the bottom of Positano’s valley!

Overlook the fact that the sand of the Spiaggia Grande isn’t the soft, golden variety that you might’ve been expecting: the real star here is the location. With peach, pink, and white houses as a beautiful backdrop, and a view out to the bluest seas, this is  the heart of Positano. Rent out a sunbed for the day (which will cost a reasonable €18) and get a golden tan, or take endless selfies with which to wow/irritate your friends back home. The choice is yours, but Positano’s beach is bound to delight you either way!

2. Do some fashionable Positano shopping

Did you know that Positano is famous not only for being super-pretty, but for being super-fashionable too?

It’s true!  Moda di Positano  (“Positano style”) came about in the 1960s, and it’s still not showing any signs of slowing down, continuing to inspire the world’s best fashion designers . You’ll see the style everywhere in town: it can be classified as clothes which have an almost handcrafted linen look, usually in white, pale blues, or yellows, and often decorated with lace or even shells. Combine with a pair of sandals, or some white jeans and sunglasses, and you’ll instantly capture that Positano chic.

But where can you get some for yourself? You’ll see a huge variety of boutiques in town, which feature a huge variety of price tags, but two of my favourites are  Antica Sartoria , which make beautiful Bohemian creations, and  Idillio , whose dresses are to die for. Both stores can be found in the heart of Positano’s shopping streets (see the map further down this article for locations!), and have extremely friendly staff!

3. Create your own Positano photography tour

There’s no doubts about it; Positano is an  ideal location for photographers.

Take it from me – you won’t want to put your camera down for a single moment when you’re walking around Positano. From the vertiginous mountainsides with their tiny houses, to the beachfront, there’s a beautiful capture waiting around every corner.

Start on the top road (Via Cristoforo Colombo) near the bus stop, and get the perfect picture of the hillside leading down to the sea, before heading into the town center. Snap a shot of the foliage-covered walkway heading down to the beach, before capturing the life down by the dock. Head across the beach, and turn backwards for the ideal envy-making shot, before taking some photos of the shade-dappled streets. But above all, enjoy discovering your own photography tour – there’s so much to see! It’ll end up being one of your favorite things to do in Positano.

Looking for some ideal photography locations? Click here to read my guide to the Amalfi Coast’s best Instagram spots!

4. Enjoy a traditional Positano home cooking experience

It’s impossible not to fall in love with the food on the Amalfi Coast – after all, you’ve got seafood pulled straight from clean, glittering waves, freshly-made pasta, and tomatoes grown in rich volcanic soil. That all adds up to producing some of the best dishes you’ll ever taste in your life.

So, what’s the best way to stave off those inevitable blue moods when you get home, that feeling that you’ll never taste anything as good again? The kind of mood that has you grumpily stabbing some tinned ravioli with a fork? The answer is simple: get a lesson on how to cook the Positano way!

For a bargain €60 – let’s face it, that’s the cost of a good meal in an Italian restaurant – you can learn the secrets of Amalfi Coast cooking, and have them forever. You’ll go to a private villa, learn how to get the best out of your ingredients, and then eat a three-course meal that you’ve watched being prepared. Not a bad way to spend a few hours!

Click here to see how you can book this experience!

5. Explore Fornillo beach

Does the Spiaggia Grande in the center of Positano feel a little too glam for you? Fancy somewhere a bit more low-key and less fashion-conscious? Well, Positano may be super chic, but it still understands that sometimes, you just want to let your hair down a bit.

The best part is that Fornillo Beach, the more relaxed counterpart of the main beach, is just around the corner! Simply head toward the dock at the right-hand side of Spiaggia Grande, and before you reach it, head up the flight of steps that are cut into the rocky wall to your right. Keep following the path round (don’t worry; there’s not too many steps, and it’s not particularly steep), and Fornillo Beach will come into view.

It’s a truly lovely spot: away from the crowds of Positano, and framed by a deep cobalt blue sea and a fringe of pine trees. Also, if you like a spot of nightlife, the beach bars get a great atmosphere after sundown!

6. Hike the Walk of the Gods

You may not think of yourself as a hiker, but by the end of your stay on the Amalfi Coast, you’ll love it. That’s because the area is so walkable (though do watch out for traffic if you take a stroll along the coastal road!), and you’ll enjoy getting out and seeing what you can discover.

The Walk of the Gods is the most famous walk on the Amalfi Coast, and it’s well-named. Aside from from heaven-sent views and divine scenery, the aspect which elevates it above all the others is exactly that – the elevation! The trail is high up in the hills above the coast, and therefore the views are plentiful, uninterrupted, and breathtaking. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Positano.

You can walk the trail by yourself, but to truly appreciate everything you’re seeing, consider going on a guided walk.  Zia Lucy  was born in the area, accordingly knows it like the back of her hand, and is regarded as the best hiking guide in Positano. If you’re interested in learning about what you’re seeing, give her a message!

It’s also very possible to do the walk solo, using a Path of the Gods hiking guide . You may not get the local knowledge, but it’s a great way to see everything at your own pace (and stop for breath every now and then, let’s be honest). If you’re worried about being able to keep up with ardent hikers, it may be the option for you!

7. Buy Positano lemon goodies

You’ll see lemons EVERYWHERE in Positano. Not just the actual, growing kind of lemon, either, though you’ll certainly see plenty of those!

Take a look around in the shops. Here’s some lemon-flavored candies. How about this dress with a lemon pattern? Or perhaps a ceramic bowl or tile with lemons on? What about some lemon perfume? Yep, Positano is famous for its lemons, and it’s not going to let you forget about it.

Don’t resist the lemons; embrace them! Positano’s plethora of lemon goodies are perfect to take home as souvenirs, whether it’s some lemon-flavored chocolate, or a bottle of limoncello. The king of all lemon emporiums is  Sapori e Profumi di Positano  (you’ll spot it by the large lemon candle outside) – if it’s lemon and it exists, they’ll have it there.  You can get tablecloths with lemons embroidered on them, or lemon body care products: take them home as gifts, and tell your family that life has given them lemons.

Looking for some more things to take home? Click here for my guide on shopping in Italy, and the best Amalfi Coast souvenirs !

8. Buy a custom-made pair of sandals

When you’re visiting somewhere as fashionable as Positano, why not get the ultimate fashion statement? That’s right: a piece that’s been handmade especially for you!

Positano is the perfect venue for sandals. Between its two beaches, and a variety of top class restaurants, even your feet need to dazzle at all times. A custom-made pair of sandals is ideal for purpose, especially if they’re dripping in Swarovski crystals of your own choosing!

Take a look at  Nana’ Positano  and the glittering variety of designs you can choose – you can even have a crystal seahorse adorning your tootsies. They’re made to measure, and you can pop out and do a bit more shopping while you wait for them to be crafted. The shop’s two owners are absolutely lovely, and committed to their work. They’ll make a special point of showing you that the stones aren’t glued on, but are firmly and professionally attached to the leather!

When you pick them up, you’ll have a quality pair of sandals, and warm fuzzy feelings from owning a truly unique piece of Positano fashion!

9. Sample some Positano gelato

Here’s one for you, fact fans! Did you know that it’s illegal to visit Italy, and not eat gelato? The carabinieri will show no mercy for rule-breakers!

Okay, I lied, but it would be near-criminal not to sample the ice cream that Italy is so famous for, and it’s therefore one of the quintessential things to do in Positano. Don’t mistake this for the ice cream you can get back home: gelato is smoother, creamier, and just  better . It’s like comparing a loaf of generic sliced bread from the supermarket, with one fresh from the bakery. They’re both a loaf of bread, but there’s a  difference .

Plus, you need to try gelato just to marvel at the list of flavors available to you! You can try options as diverse as Ferrero Rocher, custard, lemon (of course), or pistachio. Even the standard strawberry and chocolate gelati are made with fresh ingredients which elevate them above the norm.

The best gelato in Positano can be found at  Gelateria Buca di Bacco  – it’s conveniently placed near the beach, but matches its location with high-quality ice cream! Buy one, head on to the beach, wriggle your toes in the sand, and enjoy a true Italian experience.

10. Visit the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

You’ll spot the green-and-yellow onion dome of this church as soon as you arrive in Positano, and it’s well worth a visit.

The interior of the church is a delight. It’s a very classics-inspired design, with columns stretching up to the ceiling, and a 13th century Black Madonna and Child above the altar. The walls also reflect the same style, with white marble adorned with gold. A Romanesque style becomes even more appropriate when you realize that the church was built on the recently-discovered site of a Roman villa!

If you like a spot of people-watching (and who doesn’t?), then go outside and sit in the piazza. Aside from being a very effective sun-trap for working on that tan, you’ll often see weddings taking place here at the weekends. Though when I visited, I saw a model doing a photo shoot in a bikini just outside the church, which turned almost as many heads!

11. Go on a day trip to Capri

There’s only one Italian destination which matches the glamour of Positano, and that’s the beautiful island of Capri!

There’s so many reasons to visit this jewel in the Bay of Naples. Maybe you’re attracted by the history, it being the stomping ground of the Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius (and you can still visit Tiberius’ villa, where he used to enjoy himself by throwing people off cliffs). Perhaps the natural history is your thing, and you want to go one one of the many hikes around the island. Or perhaps you just want to do some serious damage to your credit card in the shops. Luckily, Capri can help you out with all of these!

You can reach Capri from Positano by catching a ferry, which will cost you in the region of €58. But if you want my top tip, take advantage of this tour of Capri by Blue Star Boat Tours . It’s not much more than the price of the regular ferry, you can take advantage of provided drinks and snorkeling equipment, and you get a guided tour from the captain. It’s extremely popular, so take advantage of the link above, and book it in advance.

If that gives you a hankering for a life on the ocean waves, then you’ll definitely also want to see Capri’s most famous sight. Take a tour of the Blue Grotto and see the luminescent caverns for yourself – a trip to Capri really isn’t complete unless you’ve seen it. Again, it’s well worth booking in advance, as you won’t find a better price in Capri’s harbor.

After all that pro sightseeing, make your way to Capri Town’s main piazza, and soak in both the sun and the heady scent of opulence!

Want to read more about Capri? Read the ultimate guide to things to do on Capri , learn about one day in Capri , or find out what the 5 best things to do in Capri are!

12. Experience Positano nightlife at Music On The Rocks

Think you’ve experienced everything that nightclubs have to offer? Do you see a club when abroad, and think “ naaah, what’s the point? How would it be any different to a club back at home? ”

Well, Music On The Rocks begs to differ. Have you ever been to a nightclub that’s located  in an actual cave? Now you can!

Aside from the novelty of being in a cave, Music On The Rocks can genuinely claim to be one of the best nightclubs on the Amalfi Coast, and the crowd is young, good looking, and ready to dance. It also sees a steady stream of top DJs doing their thing to a rapturous audience. Drinks are reasonably priced, so it won;t break the budget – queues to enter can be rather long though, so be sure to get in line near to its opening time of 10pm.

It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Positano, as well as being a whole heap of fun!

13. Eat a pizza on the beach

Sometimes simple pleasures are the best, and one of the best things to do in Positano holds true to this!

There’s just something about eating pizza on a beach which feels so  right . I think it’s the combination of eating something that’s truly fresh, with the best ingredients (all pizzas in this area have an extra zing you just won’t find anywhere else; thank that volcanic soil!), whilst the sun beats down upon you. Positano, with its stunning beach, is surely the pinnacle of all seaside eating experiences.

Plus, when the pizza is that good, it’d be rude not to!

You’ll find plenty of pizza sellers near the beach – this is Italy, after all. But my pick for the ideal takeaway pizza is Collina Bakery ; it’s a little further up the hill, but it’s a mere five minute walk down to the beach. Your pizza won’t even have time to go cold! They also sell some stunningly good desserts, just in case you want something sweet to follow it up.

Alternatively, how about a restaurant situated right on the beach, allowing you to enjoy that pizza without getting sand on your hands? If that sounds good to you, have a look at  Le Tre Sorelle – you genuinely won’t get any closer to the beach without getting your flip flops on, and the pizza is outstanding!

14. Shop for Amalfi Coast ceramics

Aside from clothes and lemon paraphernalia, the other things you’ll see a lot of on the Amalfi Coast is ceramics. Including ceramics with lemons on, because Positano really doesn’t let go of this whole lemon thing.

Ceramics are a typically Amalfi Coast product – even throughout the whole of ceramic-loving Italy, those produced in this area are the best-regarded. It’s not just a recent phenomenon either; even the Romans thought that ceramics made with the local Amalfi clay were of the best quality. Who are we to argue with the Romans?

As a result, you’ll find a whole variety of ceramics in Positano. From single tiles to vast urns, plates and dishes to the simplest mug, you’re bound to find what you’re after. The variety of patterns is quite astounding too; it’s not just lemons! Floral, Moorish, and even seascapes will all find their way into a design.

You’re spoilt for choice for ceramic shops in Positano, but the best one is  Emporio della Ceramica  on Via Cristoforo Colombo. It truly lives up to its name, with a huge selection of pieces for you to choose from. The owner, Lorenzo, only stocks high quality ceramics, and is quite happy to ship them to your home address – no having to worry about putting it in your hand luggage! Expect anything you buy here to be handmade, reasonably priced, and an item you’ll treasure forever.

15. Rent a scooter, and drive the Amalfi Coast

Most people see roads as a means to an end when you’re travelling. After all, they’re just the conduit: the strip of tarmac that gets you to the place you want to be, where you stay in one place and soak in the views.

The Amalfi Coast scoffs at this concept!! In this part of Italy, the road is one of the highlights, just as much as the towns. The Amalfi Drive is famed for being one of the most scenic stretches of road in the world, where the views are as stunning as the turns are tight. You’re separated from fresh air and the crashing blue waves below by nothing more than a metal barrier – it may get your heart rate going, but it means that there’s nothing blocking your view of the gorgeous Bay of Salerno.

Of course, if you’re going to do the Amalfi Drive, you want to do it like an Italian does. You don’t want to stick out like a tourist; you want to look like you belong there, hair whipping in the wind, sunglasses on, looking uber-chic whilst you do it. You want to live La Dolce Vita.

This means that you must do it on a Vespa. There’s nothing more Italian, nothing more glamorous, nothing better for snapping a selfie and making all your Facebook friends  insanely jealous. Head along to  Positano Rent A Scooter , and Pepe will look after you! He’ll get the right Vespa for you, give you a tutorial, and a good deal. Then you can put on the sunglasses, and ride into the sunset. Or just pose in town with a gelato, natch.

16. Spot celebrities in Positano

This may seem like an off entry on a list of things to do in Positano. Can you be guaranteed to spot a celebrity? Well, no. But is there actually a fairly good chance of it? Yes!

Positano has long been a haunt for the rich and famous. John Steinbeck was merely a precursor when he wrote his “Positano bites deep” article for  Harper’s Bazaar in 1953: since then, celebrities have flocked to this small town. Gwyneth Paltrow is a regular visitor, and Michael Jordan has been spotted partying in Music On The Rocks. Hugh Jackman has been spotted enjoyed the sun, whilst Bradley Cooper counts Positano as one of his favorites.

Want more? How about Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Taylor Swift, or Katy Perry?

But where should you go to hunt down these elusive celebs? The most likely bet is  Chez Black , a celebrity hangout for decades. Not only can you gaze adoringly on the rich and famous, but you’ll get an outstanding meal to go with it!

If you do spot a celebrity, do bear in mind that they’re on vacation too. They’re not working – and at the end of the day, famous folks are no different from the rest of us, and deserve rest, relaxation, and time off. It’s enough to admire from afar. And if you don’t spot a celebrity… well, it’s still good fun to keep an eye out!

17. Eat a Positano lemon sorbet

The gelato in Positano is  outstanding , but sometimes you want something even more refreshing. Something cold, yet more hydrating; something that’ll give you a true pick-me-up on those hot summer days. And something lemony, because Positano is absolutely determined that you will love lemons, dammit.

Fortunately, if you haven’t already fallen in love with Positano’s most popular citrus fruit, a  granita will do the job! It’s one of the must-do things to do in Positano.

Granita is a semi-frozen dessert made with water, sugar, and lemon juice, and you’ll see them throughout the Amalfi Coast – though in my humble opinion, Positano has the best ones. It’s very similar to a slushy or slush puppy, and absolutely hits the spot after a hard day’s shopping or sunbathing.

A trip to Positano honestly isn’t complete without a granita, and so you’ll find this beloved snack even in the poshest restaurants. You’ll also often find it including limoncello for an alcoholic twist, and served in a hollowed-out lemon! Check out the examples at  The Brasserie  if you want your granita with a sit-down meal.

If you’re looking for just a quick granita to nibble on the street, head up Via Dei Mulini until you reach the branch of Antica Sartoria. Right next to it is a simple cart, which sells my absolute favorite granita – it’s zesty but not bitter, and hugely refreshing! Perch on one of the benches, and watch the world go by as you finally fall in love with lemons.

18. Catch a bus to Amalfi

As lovely as Positano is, you’d be missing out if you didn’t set foot outside its boundaries for your entire stay. A bus trip to Amalfi is the ideal way to see a bit more of the area, soak in some history, and get some awesome views at the same time!

Travelling to Amalfi by boat is an awesome option for sea lovers, as you can have a little extra time to explore the Emerald Grotto, and some of the smaller villages along the coast. But if you want to save a bit of spending money, consider taking the bus. It’s about an hour’s ride, and you can catch it from Via Cristoforo Colombo, opposite Collina Bakery, or outside the Bar Internazionale. It’s a great way to experience a slice of Amalfi Coast life – there’ll usually be a fair smattering of chatting locals on board – as well as the local driving skills! Trust me, there are no bus drivers more skilled, or more patient, than on the Amalfi Coast. Nonetheless, prepare yourself to hear lots of horn honking, as well as rapid streams of Italian directed at other bus drivers!

Amalfi is a delight to explore, whether it’s the historic cathedral with its holy relics, the attractive shopping streets, or heading around the corner to picturesque Atrani. It’s definitely worth a full day’s trip, and when you’re ready to head back to Positano, simply head down to the seafront and wait at the open-air bus station. If you fancy going further afield, you can also catch a bus to Ravello or Salerno from here!

Want to read more about Amalfi? Read about one day in Amalfi here!

19. Shop for Positano art and crafts

As well as the ubiquitous clothing and ceramic stores, Positano also has a good number of art galleries. What else would you expect in a town where celebrities visit by the bucket-load, and where the views are so pretty?

Fortunately for us mere mortals, a lot of the art galleries in Positano aren’t prohibitively expensive, and the owners really don’t mind if you just want to come in for a viewing. You’ll certainly find a good variety of subjects, though predictably, the local landscape takes up the lion’s share. One of my favorites is the well-named  Art and Craft Gallery  (hey, it does exactly what it says!), where you’ll find fairly-priced art which is just perfect for taking home for a souvenir. The gallery also supports young Italian artists, so you can be guaranteed to find something unique!

If you’re after something a bit more informal, walk down the foliage-covered walkway at the bottom of Via dei Mulini. Taking advantage of the scenic setting will be a myriad of arts and crafts sellers: you’ll see everything from hand painted watercolours pinned to the trellis, to inexpensive costume jewelry, to handmade cards and postcards. It has the feeling of a very refined bazaar, and it’s definitely one of my favorite spots in Positano for picking up gifts!

20. See the history of Positano at the Museo Archeologico Romano

Remember I mentioned above that the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta was constructed on the site of a Roman villa? Well, if you visit the Museo Archeologico Romano (MAR), you can have a little look at what was there!

It’s €15 to enter, but you do receive a guided tour as part of the price – this isn’t the kind of museum that you can wander in and out of at will, but a tour experience which lasts for about 30 minutes. You’re located directly underneath the church, which is a bit of a thrill in itself, but you’ll soon be distracted by the wonderful finds on display. If you’ve visited Pompeii, then everything will seem quite familiar; the villa was destroyed in the same eruption. Which is pretty impressive in itself, given that it’s a fair distance from Vesuvius!

The guides speak fantastic English and are extremely friendly, and the frescoes – which have been excavated over the past ten years – are just as impressive and vibrant as ones you’ll see in some of the more famous sites. This is a brilliant place to explore Positano’s history, and one which is constantly expanding; go check it out!

The museum is open from 10am to 4pm.

21. Rent a boat in Positano

Ahh, life in Positano is good. Sunbathing on the beach. Looking chic in the streets. Eating fine foods. What could possibly make it better?

How about sunbathing, looking chic, and eating fine foods on a motherflippin’ boat ? What about sailing over crisp blue waves, exploring the coast, checking out the uninhabited islands? Or drinking champagne on calm seas at sunset, while the water turns a molten gold color, and seabirds wheel on the warm breeze?

Renting a boat is definitely one of the best things to do in Positano, and it’s an experience that’ll stay with you forever. There’s surely no better feeling of freedom than being able to explore at your leisure, and knowing that you’re getting envious glances from those on the land (hey, they don’t need to know that it’s not your boat!). You can even go all the way to Capri if you so wish, tying up at the harbor and enjoying a truly perfect day trip.

Even better, our old friends at  Blue Star Boat Tours  can rent you a boat – they’re probably the best boat rental company on the Amalfi Coast,and it really does pay to use a trusted name. It’s a once in a lifetime experience, and definitely something you should do!

22. Have a sundowner overlooking the beach

After an exhausting time experiencing things to do in Positano, you owe it to yourself to finish off with a little treat. So why not have a sundowner – an alcoholic drink to be enjoyed at sunset, with the last warm rays of the sun upon you. And what better place to enjoy it than that symbol of Positano, and where you started – the beach of Spiaggia Grande.

There’s no better place for a sunset tipple than  Franco’s Bar , part of the ultra-luxurious  Le Sirenuse hotel . It’s the al fresco bar to rule them all: a picture-perfect view of the beach and surrounding bay, nestled up above the hubbub of the streets. The view will take your breath away. The choice of drinks will impress you. The staff are attentive and friendly. Simply put, it’s just the perfect spot.

If you want to be guarenteed of the best views, arrive before opening at 5pm, and snag one of the tables closest to the balcony. It’ll be well worth the wait!

So, relax and feel welcome at Franco’s, and enjoy your sundowner. Bask in the atmosphere, and look over a town you’ll have come to love. And make a promise to yourself that one day, you’ll be back.

Virtual walking tour of Positano

Want to know  even more about things to do in Positano? Well, how about I magically transport you there, via the power of the interwebs?

Yes, it’s possible! Click the video below, sit back in a comfy chair, and experience a relaxing virtual walking tour of Positano thanks to YouTube’s ProWalks ! The walk is recorded in beautiful HD, and you’ll really feel like you’re there. Experience walking along the beach, listening to gentle waves, or eye up some shopping!

What if you’re not visiting Positano soon? Well, watch this anyway, and I guarantee that all your stresses will slip away!

Restaurants in Positano, and where to eat

Eating is important in Positano. Not just because if you don’t eat, you’ll probably fall over and become quite ill. Nope, the art of cooking has been elevated to more than just a basic human need.

You won’t find many regions of Italy that have better cuisine than the Amalfi Coast, and you won’t find many towns on the Amalfi Coast that have a better restaurant scene than Positano. If you want gourmet, Michelin-starred meals, you can certainly find them. But whilst the area has a reputation for being pricey, it’s not a case that  everywhere is on the higher end. You can definitely find good meals without breaking the budget!

Let’s look at the best restaurants in Positano, for all budgets!

Ristorante Casa Mela

This is widely regarded as the best restaurant in Positano. Chef Raffaelle Mandara’s ultra-modern kitchen comes up with true delights. Everything is cooked to perfection, and a true blend of food which is both visually appealing and delicious in taste. That doesn’t mean that it’s stuffy; in fact there’s a good slice of fun evident in the dishes too, such as having additional candies to add to your dessert! The interior wall has “to eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art” painted on the wall, and you can’t really disagree with that. Use the link above to book a table!

Il San Pietro di Positano

You want Michelin-starred food? You got it! Want a location away from the crowds of Positano, overlooking the valley? You got it! Want food which is out of this world, the freshest pasta and seafood, served by attentive staff? You got that too! Il San Pietro di Positano restaurant is attached to the luxury hotel of the same name, and is well worth the trip out of town and into the hills. You definitely won’t regret a trip here!

Il Tridente

The stunning food at Il Tridente has ensured that the restaurant has a reputation almost without comparison in Positano, but you’ll pay less than at the most exclusive restaurants. You’ll soon realize that you’re getting an absolute bargain! Check out the delicious pasta dishes, including a sumptuous ravioli, or fresh seafood dishes such as  spaghetti alle vongole.  The restaurant also has a beautiful outside terrace on which you can enjoy the views whilst you eat! Click the above link to book a table, because this puppy is popular.

Casa e Bottega

This fresh, clean restaurant is a lovely place for some casual dining – no pressure to dress up for occasion! But the lack of formality certainly doesn’t mean a drop in quality; Casa e Bottega is very highly regarded in Positano’s restaurant scene. With its motto of “eat clean, feel fabulous”, you can expect to find some deliciously healthy treats on offer, including a wide variety of smoothies and fruit selections. Or you can pop in for a healthy breakfast – definitely give the omelette a try; you won;t find anything lighter or fresher!

Da Ferdinando

Perfectly positioned right on the beach, Da Ferdinando will keep you well fed for less! In fact, you’ll be pretty impressed by what you can get for not very much – fresh lobster, anyone? If you’d prefer something a bit more simple, there’s a variety of pasta dishes, as well as a wonderful line in pizzas; perfect for beachside dining! For quality and price, it’s hard to match Da Ferdinando’s, and it certainly can’t be beaten on location!

F.Illi Grassi Beach Bar

Another quality, yet cheaply priced restaurant placed right on the beach. But F. Illi Grassi Beach Bar isn’t on Positano’s Spiaggia Grande – instead, you need to make the short trip around the corner to Fornillo. Don’t worry though, it’s well worth the trip!

In Positano’s seeming tradition of having excellent restaurants right on the beach, the food here certainly doesn’t seem like a budget option. The pasta dishes are second to none, especially the ravioli in a tangy tomato puree, coated in Parmesan shavings. Salads are also fresh and plentiful – you can’t go wrong with a choice here!

Want more choices? Take a look at this Positano guide which has some other culinary options!

The ultimate Positano packing list!

There are certain items you just can’t be without in Positano. Whether it’s finding the right clothes with which to blend in with the region’s most stylish, or just the little items that’ll save you a whole lot of inconvenience, these all need to be in your suitcase!

Comfy shoes :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – trust me: this are a MUST. The hilly, cobbled streets of Positano may be stunningly beautiful, but if you attempt to explore them in your heels, you’re going to seriously feel it at the end of the day. These slip-on shoes are perfect; not only are they comfy and well-gripped, but they fit in perfectly with the Positano fashion of having lace-adorned garments. Who says that practical can’t be cute! If those aren’t your cup of tea, check out this guide to stylish walking shoes for travel , because you really do need the comfiest shoes you can find.

Sun dress :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – Positano fashion is all about fresh, white-and-bright color combinations, and this adorable dress fits the bill. A sun dress is an essential on the Amalfi Coast (with all that warm Italian sunlight, it’d be a shame to waste it!): team up with the shoes above, or a pair of custom-made sandals, for a true fashion statement.  Your Instagram will love you for it.

Packable hat :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – my last trip to Positano totally converted me to the way of the packable hat. They’re perfect!! They’ll roll up or squish down in your suitcase, eliminating those worries about having a half-dead straw hat in all your photos, or having to take up valuable space in your hand luggage. Even better, the style of this one is perfectly suited to the sun dress/sandals combo, and it’ll match any Positano linen clothing you pick up while you’re there!

Sunglasses : Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – these adorable tortoiseshell sunglasses are  the  must-have item for evoking that feeling of Hollywood glamour, which is permanently soaked into the cobblestones of Positano. As well as giving you a cute Audrey Hepburn vibe, matching your oh-so-adorable outfit, they’re fully equipped to protect your eyes from UV rays. After a day’s shopping in the streets, you’ll definitely appreciate that. Put these on, look fabulous, and wait for George Peppard to whisk you away.

Bikini :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – did you know that this area of Italy is one of the first places where the bikini was worn in public? What better way to celebrate this moment in swimwear history (lol) than with a lemon bikini! This bikini has the perfect amount of old-school glamour and Positano imagery, with a dash of sexiness thrown in for good measure. You’re sure to look like a Mediterranean goddess in this one.

Kaftan :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – after you’ve splashed in the warm waves in your new bikini, it’s good to have a kaftan handy for when you dry out – you don’t want to get burnt! Similarly, they’re super handy for if you want to pop off the beach to pick up a pizza or gelato. These kaftans have the right amount of cover-up, combined with some fresh and funky patterns to make you stand out. They’re a seaside staple!

Flip Flop Sandals :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – I am SUPER fussy about flip flops. If you get the wrong pair, they can cut badly into the skin between your toes, especially if you’re walking in the surf where the waves pull on them. Or even worse, they disappear into the sea, never to be seen again. Fortunately, I discovered Havianas, and I’ve never looked back! I’m in love with these ones; they’re rose gold (the most fashionable color right now), and match perfectly with the white clothes favored on the Amalfi Coast!

Romper :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – Rompers (or jumpsuits, if you’re over here in Brit-land) are well-suited to the Amalfi Coast – they’re practical, they’re stylish, and they fit nicely into that nautical-but-nice vibe you’ll find all over the Amalfi Coast. They’re perfect for wearing on a boat, sipping champagne as you speed across the waves! Choose which colour suits you best, but stick to pastels for ultimate chic.

Linen scarf :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – Linen scarves are SO useful if you’re visiting Positano! Not only can you use it practically if you’re starting to feel the burn, but you can also use it as a cover-up if you visit one of the region’s churches. Not to mention that it makes an awesome accessory to wear in the evening, with a simple white linen top or a sweater for cooler evenings. Again, pick a pastel shade, and blend in beautifully with the chic locals.

Perfume :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – long-term readers of this blog will know of my love for Carthusia perfume , made just across the sea in Capri, and a quinessential scent of the Amalfi Coast. So what better scent to have on a trip to Positano than their Corallium perfume; a delicate fragrance which evokes the beautiful flower-fringed beaches of this area. It’s lovely and musky, yet with that fresh marine scent that you’ll soon be associating with Positano!

Bag :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – you’ll find that you need something sturdy yet stylish to carry around your essentials, and this nautical-striped tote bag does the job nicely. With plenty of room, and even a sleeve so you can pop it over the handle of a wheeled suitcase, this is also a perfect carry-on bag! Chuck in your must-haves, sit back, and jet off to Positano.

Comfy shoes :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – yes, chaps, you need comfy shoes too! It’s not just the ladies! Fortunately you too can take part in Positano style with these canvas shoes – you’ll see plenty of Italian guys wearing these. Light enough that you won;t get overheated, whilst durable enough to do some serious hiking in, these will do you a good turn.

Sweater :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – If you’ve ever visited Italy, and the Amalfi Coast in particular, you’ll already know how to get that Italian chic look. It’s a simple formula: crisp shirt + a sweater casually draped over the shoulders = one cool dude. And you can’t go wrong with a sweater of Calvin Klein quality. Choose pastel colors or a bolder terracotta for ultimate Positano points.

Chinos :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – What’s the other component of Italian male style? Nothing other than the humble chino. Pair up with the sweater and shoes above, and you’ll be able to pass for a local in no time. These are doubly guaranteed to serve you well, being made by Levi’s – there’s no better brand out there, guys – ensures that they have a stamp of quality. Why ruin a good outfit with inferior chinos?

Hat :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – If you’re looking for a hat to keep your head protected from the sun – doubly advisable if you’re going on hikes such as the Walk of the Gods – consider these natty stetsons. They’re made of seagrass, giving them a vacation feel, whilst still being nicely masculine. Everyone loves a cowboy!

Speedos :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – lads, if you’re going to be swimming on the Amalfi Coast (and you totally should, because splashing in crystal blue waters is one of the best things to do in Positano), there’s only one choice for you. It’s got to be Speedos, the quintessential male swimwear, and as popular here as they’ve ever been. The great news is that Speedos combine quality with affordability, so you’ll pay a fair price! Pick red or blue for ultimate Mediterranean-ness.

Flip Flops :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – Havianas for you, Havianas for you, Havianas for everyone! Yes, my favorite brand isn’t just for the ladies; the Brazilian brand has been producing their man-made flip flops for men since 1962. The cool thing about this pair is that you can evoke that heritage: they feature a print of a surfer tackling the waves, which will give you some serious man-points when you’re chilling on the beach.

Cologne :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – just like the ladies, you too can give off the warm, sun-kissed scent of the Amalfi Coast before you even get there. Tom Ford doesn’t produce inferior products, and this scent is no exception to that; it really is summer in a bottle, and any neck bearing this will be instantly kissable.

Sunscreen :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – Shiseido sunscreen is regarded as one of the best, and this particular one is perfect for Positano. In a destination where you’ll quite likely be in the water or walking on the sand, you need a sunscreen which resists both, and that’s exactly what Shiseido Ultimate Protection offers. It’s an essential!

Winestopper :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – trust me, friends, you’re gonna want a winestopper. Because you’re going to want to have a lovely chilled bottle of vino on your balcony or on the beach, and it would be too much of a shame to let any go to waste!

Hand wipes :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – never leave home without them. Plus, these ones are zingy!

Camera :  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  – never visit Positano without a camera! Sacrilege! Choosing a camera is very much a personal choice, but I’ve linked to the one that I took with me, and used for the photos in this article. If you like the look of them, and want to upgrade on using your iPhone, give it a click!

Share the best things to do in Positano!

I truly hope that this guide helps you to find the best things to do in Positano, whether you want to hit the streets and explore, or take it easy at the beach! It really is a perfect location for a vacation; one that combines glamour, beautiful natural scenery, and warm, friendly locals. You may never return to Positano, or you may come here year after year, but it’s definitely a place that’ll be in your heart forever.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, and you want to share it to help out others who might be travelling here, click the buttons below! Alternatively, save the below image to Pinterest to read it later!

Just to let you know, this article contains affiliate links! These add zero extra cost to your purchases, nor do they do any nasty data-saving stuff. In fact, they might even save you some money! All proceeds go towards the running of this blog, and keeping my cat in kibble. Thank you for any clicks!

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Positano – The Essentials

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Vienna to Salzburg Day Trip Guide!

I’m blown away with the amazing information you’ve shared here – it answers all my questions about Positano. Capri is also on my bucket list and to learn that I can do both in one trip made my day! Thank you for including wonderful budget options for restuarants and hotels – very useful. That HD walking tour!? Whaat – just amazing, haven’t seen anything like it.

This is the guide to end all guides! I can’t wait to visit. The beaches and food are calling my name!!

Stephanie—The Roving Fox

Wow this is so comprehensive and I love your photos. Def pinning this for later!

Oh my gosh wow! This is such an extensive guide of Positano! I would love to do the Walk of the Gods, and I’m always a fan of lemon goodies!

Arunima Dey

the Curious Pixie

Love to visit Positano, so beautiful. Such a comprehensive guide too.

Gelato? Pizza? What’s not to love. And a DIY photo tour? Sold! Also had no idea.you visit Capri and Postiano. Great post!

what a lovely place and photos, I loved the photos with the cat

thatanxioustraveller

Thank you! 😊 It’s a wonderful place, with lots of wonderful kitties! 😀

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How to Visit Positano, Italy’s Iconic Summer Hot Spot on the Amalfi Coast

From its cobbled streets to its stunning beaches, this glamorous coastal village is where vacation dreams come true.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

The Amalfi Coast — a photogenic 30-mile stretch of vacation paradise on the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula — calls to mind postcard-ready seaside villages, sun-drenched beaches, and restaurant terraces overlooking the sparkling sea. While there are many standouts in this famous region, few match the charisma and magnetism of Positano. This seaside idyll is well known for its narrow cobbled streets, stylish boutiques, buzzy beach clubs, and cosmopolitan ambience. Hotels perched on cliffsides provide the perfect refuge for travelers after full days spent sightseeing, shopping, and gorging on fresh seafood.

Given its prime location, Positano also makes a wonderful home base for exploring the charming towns of Ravello and Praiano. Not surprisingly, this slice of coastal Italian paradise — and well-established tourism darling — draws hordes of travelers every summer. 

Before jetting off to Positano, scroll on for everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip filled with fun in the sun, food, culture, and spellbinding views.

Andrea Comi/Getty Images

Getting to Positano

Most travelers will fly into Rome or Naples and then catch a train, bus, or shuttle to reach Positano. If you hire a private car and navigate the curve-hugging roads on your own, it's about 3.5 hours from Rome and an hour from Naples. During the day, you can take a ferry from Naples, Salerno, Sorrento, or Amalfi.

Best Times to Visit Positano  

Summer is peak season in Positano — and all along the Amalfi Coast, for that matter — with droves of vacationers packing the town to soak up the sunshine and laze on the beaches. While the crowds typically depart in early September, the weather remains pleasant, and most restaurants, shops, and hotels stay open through late October. After that, virtually everything closes for the winter and reopens in April.   

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do in Positano

Much of Positano's charm is tied to its scenic environs and laid-back yet buzzy energy. Spiaggia Grande — the city's main beach — combines both. It’s the place to rent a sunbed, catch some rays, grab a drink, and snap photos of the colorful town above. Looking for a low-key alternative to the crowds? Consider strolling west for about eight minutes to Fornillo Beach. For cocktails and coastal splendor, many travelers favor Arienzo Beach Club Positano , which is accessible via a short boat ride from the main pier. 

Piazza dei Mulini buzzes with excitement and a mix of designer and artisan shops. One of the most unique and iconic things to purchase? Handmade leather sandals. Positano has many can’t-miss cultural attractions as well. Captivating Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta is a storied church featuring a restored Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary, beautiful bas-reliefs, and a glimmering dome roof. MAR — Museo Archeologico Romano gives visitors a close-up look at an ancient Roman villa with crypts and beautifully preserved frescoes. 

The famous Path of the Gods hiking trail runs from Nocelle, a hilltop village just above Positano, to Bomerano. It’s a great way to escape the crowds, stretch your legs, and soak in mesmerizing views.  

Of course, it’s not just the allure of Positano itself but also its proximity to the many other wonders of the Amalfi Coast and nearby Capri that make it so irresistible. Consider booking a boat excursion or even taking a road trip to see more of this breathtaking region. 

Best Positano Restaurants

A stalwart establishment that dates back to 1965, Michelin-rated La Taverna del Leone continues to lure diners with its handmade pasta and warm, friendly hospitality. Casa Mele serves artful plates of mouthwatering food and also invites culinary enthusiasts to take cooking classes. Il Tridente sits atop the centrally located Hotel Poseidon . The combination of house-smoked meats and fresh seafood, cocktails, and sweeping panoramas from the rooftop terrace keeps the tables full and patrons coming back for more.

Adamo ed Eva at Hotel Eden Roc Positano exudes a romantic atmosphere that makes it ideal for honeymooners and couples celebrating a special occasion. The sea bass, lobster pasta, and lemon risotto — all prepared with fresh local ingredients — are some of the menu highlights. Zass at Il San Pietro di Positano earned its Michelin star thanks to delectably creative twists on gastronomic traditions. Stellar service, seaside vistas, and an impressive wine list enhance the appeal. 

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Best Places to Stay in Positano 

Travelers won’t have any trouble finding a stylish place to stay in Positano — actually securing a room during peak summer, however, might be another story. Le Sirenuse is a perennial favorite set inside a striking 18th-century villa that’s welcomed A-listers and literary giants during its illustrious history. The splurge-worthy hotel continues to wow travelers with well-appointed guest rooms, impeccable service, and laid-back luxury that encapsulates the most relaxing parts of an Amalfi Coast holiday.

Villa Magia offers both proximity to the center of town and unobstructed azure seascapes. The splendid indoor and outdoor spaces — which include 12 rooms and suites, two pools, a spa, two restaurants, and a cocktail bar — evoke intimate vacation vibes. Il San Pietro di Positano , a Relais & Chateaux property, is thoughtfully designed to encourage guests to stop and appreciate every moment. It offers Michelin-rated cuisine to savor, panoramic terraces that invite lingering, and rooms accented with character-rich details like custom-upholstered furnishings and hand-painted ceramic tiles.

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Travel · June 27, 2020

The Ultimate Guide to Positano

Positano is the dreamy destination on everyone’s bucket list. Why? It is the epitome of the Italian “la dolce vita” with a picturesque town nestled between a beach and the cliffs of Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast. If you have to choose only one destination to visit during your Amalfi Coast trip, it is no doubt that Positano should be your first and only choice. Positano is positively stunning, with all of the old-world charm and glamour that this area is so well-known for. I will go back here time and time again, just to experience those views overlooking the pastel-colored town and the Mediterranean Sea.

I’m sure you’re already convinced to travel here after seeing Positano as one of the biggest hotspots on social media, but I’ve created this guide to make your trip a sure-thing! I’ve carefully researched all of the best spots to visit, things to do, places to stay and restaurants to eat at, so you have smooth-sailing for your perfect Positano trip!

If you’re looking to extend your trip to other Amalfi Coast destinations, take a look at some of my other travel guides: The Instagram Guide to the Amalfi Coast , 10 Most Instagrammable Places to Eat on the Amalfi Coast , 48 Hours in Amalfi , The Pocket Guide to Sorrento , How to Spend 2 Days in Naples

HOW TO GET TO POSITANO

Like all good things, getting here is not easy. Positano is somewhat secluded along the Amalfi Coast without direct access to airports or train stations. The easiest ways to get here are via ferry, rental car or a private driver.

If you are coming from abroad, you will likely start your trip in Naples. To reach Positano, you can expect the travel times below:

• Naples to Positano: 1h15 minutes driving
• Sorrento to Positano: 45 minutes driving, 45 minute ferry
• Amalfi to Positano: 40 minutes driving, 20 minute ferry
• Capri to Positano: 50 minute ferry
• Salerno to Positano: 1h25 minutes driving, 1h15 minute ferry

If you’re opting to come via car, I recommend using a private driver over a rental car. Why? The roads are winding and narrow and parking is scarce and expensive! Unless you are planning a full tour of Italy via rental car, I don’t suggest renting one to come to the Amalfi Coast. If you do decide to go on a day trip or want to have the quintessential Amalfi Drive experience, consider renting a vintage Fiat or Vespa to cruise along the coastline.

WHAT TO DO IN POSITANO

Positano is a gorgeous small town along the coast and it’s the perfect spot to relax and take it easy. You won’t find tons of attractions here, but you will find lots of magnificent views, beach clubs, beautiful shops, delicious restaurants and charming street corners… plenty to keep you entertained!

Check out my Instagram Guide to the Amalfi Coast for the best views and photo-worthy spots in Positano!

EXPLORE THE TOWN

The town center is full of winding roads and alleyways climbing up the cliffside. I loved getting lost here, although you may need to be in a bit of shape for all of the stairs! If you love shopping for local foods, handmade gifts or Italian fashion, check out the shops along Via Cristoforo Coloumbo, Piazza dei Mulini, Via del Saracino and Viale Pasitea.

HAVE A BEACH DAY

Positano has a few different beaches where you can set-up and enjoy the day with your beach babes. I recommend renting a chair and umbrella from one of the beach clubs. These typically cost around 30 Euros per chair, but they are well-worth it!

Check out the main Spiaggia di Positano for the best views of Positano on the beachside. If you’re wanting something more secluded, make a reservation at Arienzo Beach Club . This beach is a small boat ride away from Positano and it is a great little escape away from the hustle and bustle! If you decide to book here, you will be picked up on the boat shuttle in town and brought to the private beach a few minutes away! Make sure to reserve in advance because spots fill up quickly in the summertime!

BOOK A DINNER WITH A VIEW

This is a must in Positano! It doesn’t get much better than dining with a view here. Check out some of my favorite spots to dine with a view in my guide to the 10 Most Instagrammable Places to Eat on the Amalfi Coast !

HAVE A SPA DAY

There are some great spas at the luxury hotels in Positano, but my favorite spa is at Villa Fiorentino . It has the best views over Positano and you can book the private glass jacuzzi tub!

TAKE A DAY TRIP

There’s a lot to do in Positano, but if you want to see more of the Amalfi Coast, extend your stay and make Positano your home-base. Ferries frequent Positano to other coastal destinations. Some day trips you can take are: Capri, Amalfi, Praiano, Sorrento or Naples.

WHERE TO STAY

A stay in Positano is the ultimate luxury. There are plenty of glamorous coastal properties to fulfill your every need and give you the vacation you deserve! You’re going to the Amalfi Coast, so live a little and book that gorgeous spot you’ve always dreamed of staying at!

Positano has plenty of luxe options, but I’ve chosen some of my most favorite spots! Each property is heavenly with amazing service, beautiful décor and picture-perfect views for the ultimate stay!

• Le Sirenuse
• Villa Fiorentino
• Hotel Poseidon
• Villa Tre Ville
• Il San Pietro di Positano
• Hotel Albergo California
• Casa Mia Positano
• Panoramic Villa La Scalinatella
• Sontuosa Villa con Terrazzo Panoramico
• Charming Flat with Amazing Views

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

Enjoy a healthy start to your day at the cutest breakfast joint along the Amalfi Coast at Casa E Bottega.

Take in the view with a cocktail in hand at Franco’s Bar or Aldo’s Cocktail Bar at Le Sirenuse , Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon and Il San Pietro di Positano

For the best restaurant views, dine on the street at Ristorante Bruno , on the beach at Hotel Ristorante Pupetto or experience fine dining al freso at Terrazza Cele , Maestro’s or Ristorante Don Giovanni

Indulge in your Italian favorites with handmade food from Buca di Bacco , Ristorante Saraceno D’Oro , Da Vicenzo Positano , Ristorante Max or Ristorante al Palazzo.

TRAVEL TIPS

Positano is a tourist destination, so travel is a lot easier here than other destinations in Italy. English is widely spoken and there are plenty of places that accept international credit cards or have atm’s for cash withdrawal. Because Positano is so popular, it can be more expensive than the other Amalfi Coast towns, so this is something to consider if you are looking to travel on a budget.

The town is perched on the cliffside, so bring some walking shoes! To get to some of the popular viewpoints or accommodations, you will have to climb stairs. It’s not horrible, but you definitely don’t want to be too out of shape (or dehydrated!)

WHAT TO PACK

Positano is all about that coveted Italian glamour from the better days of the dolce vita era. I love dressing for my destination, so I am all for some fun Italian prints and colors that add some personality to your travel clothes!

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Ultimate Guide to Positano, Italy

What is Positano known for? Positano is a cliffside village located on the Amalfi Coast to the South of Italy . Upon first glance, Positano almost resembles a giant pyramid, with traditional and colorful buildings and boutique hotels built on every level.

Positano was originally a wealthy market port that played host to medieval deals in fish trade and other resources. Thanks to its beauty and wealth, it has also been a resort destination since the time of the Roman Empire. Positano grew hugely popular amongst vacationers in the 1950s and has been somewhat of a tourist hub ever since!

Positano is a popular destination in Italy for couples looking for a romantic getaway, but also for families stopping through for a day trip. If you would like to spend a few days there (and you should!), here is all the detail you need to plan a relaxing vacation.

How to Get to Positano?

Navigating your way to Positano can be a bit of an adventure, especially if it’s your first visit. The closest airport to Positano is Naples Airport (Napoli in Italian). However, there’s no train to Positano, so you need to either rent a car, take a private transfer, connect a number of busses, or jump on a ferry (summer season only).

It’s not always the easiest or most convenient but I have written a whole post on the topic to give you all the step-by-step details. 

If you’re flying into Rome (FCO), be aware that the j ourney from Rome to the Amalfi Coast will take a minimum of 4 hours from the time you land, and that’s assuming that you make all the connections.

Is Positano Expensive?

As it has risen from a sleepy fishing village to a popular holiday spot, Positano has had to improve its tourism industry exponentially.

That said, Positano has become very expensive, but most tourists admit that it’s worth the price if you want to fully immerse in it. 

Things to Know About Positano

One thing to note about Positano is that it’s built on a steep slope and so, inevitably, a large number of steps are involved in getting around . For those who feel daunted by the idea of trekking up all those stairs, I recommend catching the bus to the top of town and then wandering back down again at your own pace – perhaps stopping en route for a gelato or an Aperol Spritz.

That said, while I managed to visit Positano with a baby in a stroller , I would say it’s probably not a good place for those with mobility issues. You can find routes that don’t require more than 20 steps, but you do need to be able to go uphill and downhill.

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Where to Stay in Positano

As soon as you know the dates of your trip, you must book accommodation! During the summer months, the best hotels book up a year in advance despite the hefty price tag. Yes, really.

While you can save up on staying somewhere else, you’ve got to stay in Positano for at least one night to experience the incredible ocean views and aromas of olive trees, oranges, and lemons all growing in perfectly straight lines, it’s quite the spectacle.

Hotel Marincanto

Marincanto is one of the most photographed spots in town , as they host many weddings on their terrace. I highly enjoyed my stay there, and unlike the majority of hotels that are located on the other side of town, I had a view overlooking the photogenic Positano at sunset.

Marincanto is also one of the few hotels that can be accessed without having to climb any stairs. Plus, they offer parking on the property, a pool, and access to a private beach area (which many don’t know about). 

Hotel Poseidon

You cannot go wrong by staying here. The pool at Hotel Poseidon is simply amazing and while pricy, the buffet is one of the best in town . Poseidon also has a big private pool and a fantastic terrace restaurant for dinner. 

The only downside for families is that they don’t allow kids, but this makes it even better for those looking for an adults-only retreat!

Hotel Miramare

This is a gorgeous spot in a fantastic location with an unparalleled elegance fit for royalty. The breakfast room even has an intricate flower ceiling that will make your morning even more memorable.

If you’re looking for the best of the best, make sure to book a room with an infinity bathtub and shower.  

Things to Do in Positano

So, what is there to do in Positano, besides marvel at the architecture that appears to have been carved directly into the hills and cliffside? There’s plenty of choice so let’s have a look!

1. Try Lemon Sorbet in a Lemon

Where can you get a lemon sorbet served in a real lemon was the most common question I got from my followers on Instagram, as it’s not as common as you may think.

There are actually only two spots (as far as I know) that do it and they run out of them by early afternoon.

Where to get lemon sorbet in lemon in Positano?

• Covo dei Saraceni – Easy to locate spot as it’s right on the beach and next to ferries.
• La Zagara – Off the main tourist street, but with a quiet terrace on the back

2. Eat Delicious Food

Of course, the cuisine you have to try in Positano will always focus on the big two – traditional Italian, and seafood. You can often get a huge variety of seafood platters but also plenty of dishes that combine the two like seafood pastas and even pizzas.

Positano is home to a plethora of restaurants and there is something for every budget available, from little cafes to smart restaurants. The general rule to follow is that the closer you get to the seafront, the more expensive the restaurants will be unless there’s a gorgeous view involved.

For those on a budget, I suggest sticking to the center of town, with an after-dinner wander down to the coast to watch the sunset.

It’s also important to plan ahead, reservations are pretty much mandatory for any dinner spot in Positano , even off-season. For some of my favourite spots, check out the section on where to eat in Positano below!

3. Sunbathe on a Positano Beach

The shoreline of Positano is home to some of the most iconic beaches in Italy. These picture-perfect beaches are lined with bars and cafes, plus they have water-based activities available for all ages .

You simply cannot leave the town without spending at least one day soaking up the fun and sun of Positano Beach.

The day-bed price on the beach starts from about €12.50 but can cost up to €40 per person, so keep this in mind if you’re on a budget. Also due to Positano’s location, the sun stays on the beach until about 3-4 PM so don’t leave it too late.

4. Go Clubbing in a Cave

The beach is also where you will find Music on the Rocks – the only nightclub in Positano , which was carved out of the rock face itself.

It’s an amazing place to spend an evening. Enjoying delicious cocktails combined with music and the sound of the waves crashing around you is an experience like no other!

5. Visit the Church of Santa Maria

The church of Santa Maria is the most photographed and recognizable structure in Positano , but most people skip visiting the inside.

Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta is free to enter and it’s worth your time . This storied church features a Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna and Child & was once part of a monastery.

In addition, the Museo Archeologico Romano (M.A.R.) Positano offers 30-minute guided tours of two medieval crypts under the church. It’s a beautiful retreat from the busy modern-day Positano and truly puts history into perspective as you see the ruins of a Roman Villa from the 1st Century A.C.

6. Take a Boat Trip

Positano is an awesome place to rent a boat for the day, whether with a boat captain included or not. You can sail around the coast, sunbathe, and get the best view of Positano.

We did a private boat rental as we had baby Dylan with us and wanted more flexibility to take photos. You can easily book it through your hotel or online, but pre-booking AT LEAST days in advance is essential . Pre-book self-drive boat here and arranged tour here .

If you are traveling with babies/kids, make sure to ask about life jackets! We were told that we’d be provided a baby lifejacket, but when we paid and got on board they said they didn’t actually have them (it’s not compulsory by law in Italy, like it is in the US). If you’re traveling with a baby you might want to bring your own lifejacket like this one .

7. Hike the Path of Gods

As a traditional cliffside town, there are of course the expected beaches and cliffs that draw nature lovers from far and wide.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or not, you should take a walk along the cliff and look back on Positano to fully appreciate the beauty of the fruit trees, the variety of colored buildings, and the sparkling blue of the sea below.

For more enthusiastic hikers there’s the Path of Gods route ( Sentiero degli Dei  in Italian). The hike is moderate difficulty and it takes 3 hours one way , then you can return by bus or walk back. More detailed instructions are described in this article .

8. Shop in Positano

For those less inclined to explore the natural wonders of Positano, the retail offerings cause fashionistas and celebrities alike to flock to the town throughout the year. Smart boutiques line the narrow maze of streets, joined by wisteria-draped hotels and cute little restaurants.

No matter your taste, anyone can spend a happy afternoon exploring, getting wonderfully lost and perhaps even picking up a few treats like lemon ceramics or handmade clothes.

9. Hunt for Movie Locations

Positano is featured in a number of popular films including Under the Tuscan Sun and Only You . Movie fans will love simply wandering the streets where their favorite characters once tread, and can even become a part of the action when the annual Pulcinella Awards are presented for excellence in animation.

Meanwhile, those who are more inclined towards the musical side of things will love learning about the cafes that Mick Jagger and Keith Richards frequented during a holiday to Positano, and visiting the home of Shawn Phillips who composed most of his work from the town of Positano.

10. Take a Day Trip to Capri or Pompeii

Positano is also a great base to stay if you want to enjoy some of the more widespread activities available around the Amalfi coast. You can easily do a day trip to Capri or Pompeii, both I would certainly recommend.

Pompeii is home to the famous city ruins that were covered in ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius centuries ago. You can even visit the mountain itself to marvel at the crater left behind by the eruption.

You may also decide to visit Capri for a day trip if you’re short on time, but I highly recommend staying for at least a night. There are boat shuttles to Capri leaving every hour (every half an hour during high season), so you can easily visit the island in your own time.

11. Take a Wine Tour

Positano is surrounded on all sides by some of Italy’s finest vineyards , growing the grapes for red, white and rose wines that visitors can enjoy as part of a variety of wine tours available.

Most of these tours take you to a collection of different vineyards, offering an insight into how wine is produced in the area – and promoting the community spirit that unites all of these vineyards as one.

12. Visit a Lemon Farm

Enter the paradise of the lemon tree, where the Sfusato Amalfitano (Amalfi variety of lemons) is born and begins its journey to conquer the palates of the whole world.

Here you will discover all of the production phases from the cultivation of lemons in the gardens to the production of all the delicacies.

If you’re a fan of Limoncello you should visit one of the lemon farms and see its production. Plus, you’ll be able to buy directly from producers for competitive prices . 

13. Take a Cooking Class

Unfortunately, it sometimes rains on the Amalfi Coast making most of the outdoor activities in Positano rather unpleasant. So what can you do in Positano when it rains? Simple answer is: eat and immerse yourself in the art of cooking.

So if the forecast isn’t looking on your side or you’re simply looking for something a little different to do, sign up for a cooking class, which can be done whenever – even in the rain. Learn the art of mixing, cooking and baking – to prepare dishes which were made by Amalfi grandmothers. Book here.

14. Go Scuba Diving

Diving isn’t something that most people think of when they plan their trip to Positano. It’s not known as a dive destination, so what can you see there underwater?

Well, it’s not uncommon to find shards of pottery and other antique Italian relics ! Plus of course, you can dive in all the cool grottos that you can see from above and experience the perfectly emerald water from a different angle. 

15. Rent a Historic Car

The Fiat 500 is a little jewel of a car with a popular place in Italian history . While coming from Poland, this isn’t the biggest attraction to me (we used to have this car for many years), if you’ve never taken a trip in an old car, zooming around in it on the Amalfi Coast is like a scene from a movie! 

If you’re willing to self-drive, Hertz is now renting them locally but you can also rent them at Hotel Poseidon. There are also many organized tours you can do that would allow you to taste Limoncello on the way. 

16. Rent a Scooter

If you’re not quite confident enough to drive Positano’s tiny streets in a car, renting a scooter is another classic Italian experience that you can’t miss!

Scooters are much smaller than cars, so you can pull over anywhere you want, as often as you want. There are many cute lemon stalls on the road that you can visit, and it’s easier to park in places like Ravello. If you’re not comfortable driving on your own, you could take a Vespa tour instead . 

17. Discover the Grottos

Green grotto, White grotto, and Emerald grotto – the Amalfi Coast isn’t short on grottos to explore.

You need an organized tour to enter the grottos of the Amalfi Coast as no self-drive boats are allowed in. You can pre-book a tour online .

18. Play with Stray Cats

Cats lovers will be happy as there’s a large stray cat population in Positano. Cats roam free and they’re friendly and cuddly as locals feed them . Some even give high fives…

19. Visit Ravello

While you could stay in Ravello for the night, what I highly recommend if you don’t have time is to do a half-day tour to visit Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century villa with beautiful cascading gardens and exquisite views. If lucky you can even meet my buddy the black cat.

Ravello is the best place to buy ceramics so I highly recommend you visit, even if it’s just for an afternoon!

If you have a car just drive there independently, otherwise you can take a local bus (very crowded though!), or take an organized tour .

Where to Eat in Positano

As I promised earlier, here is a list of my favorite restaurants in Positano that I highly recommend.

Kid Friendly Restaurants:

• Chez Black – Beachfront restaurant that is amazing despite being touristy.  
• Saracena d’Ovo – Casual family-run Italian restaurant with great pizza. 
• Lo Guarracino – If you want to get off the tourist track, head here but book in advance.
• Ristorante Da Adolfo – A unique place on a private beach that can only be reached by their own boat. The boat departs and returns about every 10 minutes from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Kids Unfriendly but Fantastic:

• Il Tridente – Restaurant belonging to Hotel Poseidon with delicious food and a unique dining terrace. 
• La Sponda – Good cocktail spot and restaurant for dinner, located at La Sireneuse – the most Instagrammed hotel in town. 
• Franco’s – It’s one of the most Instagrammable cocktail bars in town, but it comes with a hefty “London price” – about 18 EUR for a drink. The line is usually very long even before it opens, so be on time.

Positano is one of those destinations that everyone has on their bucket list, and if you’re lucky enough to go, I cannot recommend exploring enough.

While there are certainly plenty of activities to keep you occupied within the town itself, it’s only by venturing outside the boundaries that one can appreciate the sheer spectacle of Positano – with its terracotta houses, sparkling waters and endless olive groves and vineyards.

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Thursday 30th of September 2021

Hi Anna. We have a family wedding of 11 in June in Positano, Italy. Once we leave the Amalfi Coast and head to Rome, we will use trains and have no transportation issues. I do not know what to do about getting around Sorrento/Positano though. Should we rent a van/cars from Naples airport or train station upon arrival? I know that parking is difficult in Positano. Our airbnb is between Sorrento and Positano. Would it be easier to book car services for our travel during these 4 days? Thank you for any insight you can give me about the best way to move around this area. Amy

Wednesday 11th of November 2020

I see you crossed out Hotel Marincanto. Do you no longer recommend? Thanks!

Anna Karsten

I do, but it wasn't open due to covid (not all hotels reopened). It's closed right now as well since that region of Italy is back on lockdown.

Thursday 29th of August 2019

I am traveling to Italy/Amalfi Coast here soon and noticed the first hotel we booked in Vico Equense is not in a very convenient location (25 min from Sorrento). Seems as though we'll be spending a lot of extra $ of taxi fares to and from the train stations. I am wondering if you think it's a good idea to rent a car to get to and from my hotel in Vico Equense to Sorrento? Or would you recommend a scooter?

Thanks for the useful information!

Sunday 1st of September 2019

I'd find out if there's a shuttle service from a hotel. It might seem like a cheaper idea to get a car, but parking fees on the Amalfi Coast are ridiculous (ex. 40 EUR in Positano is a min. charge), plus finding a spot is a challenge. Scooter would be a better idea in your case for sure!

Friday 22nd of February 2019

Hi Anna, thanks so much for posting this insightful article full of great advice. My husband and I are planning a trip to Italy in July (peak season) with our two little boys (6yo and 3yo). We are flying into Rome and spending 3 nights there and then heading to Naples/Pompeii/aAmalfi Coast. We're planning to use public transit while in Rome and I was planning to head down to the Southern parts of Italy by train but after reading your article I'm now thinking perhaps renting a car when leaving Rome would be better, especially traveling with two little kids? But then driving along Amalfi Coast really makes me nervous as well! Any advice on what would be a better bet for us? After Amalfi Coast we're heading over to Milan then Southern France to Bercelona (final destination). Thank you!

In terms of driving around Amalfi it really depends on how adventurous of a driver you are. Many people opt for the option with a private driver, but truth to be told - many people don't want to drive abroad at all ;-) I wouldn't be afraid of train there are always many kids on Italian trains, often way younger than yours and it's not an issue (in fact, they don't have to pay for tickets until they're 15 years old). That said, it's really up to you if you feel more comfortable having a car with you, but then parking can get expensive.

For the last leg from Amalfi to Milan I'd take a domestic flight. It's cheaper and no point of sitting on a train for so long :)

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Positano, Italy Travel Guide

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Positano is one of Italy's most romantic vacation spots and one of the top towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast . Built vertically on the face of a cliff, it started out as a fishing village and became popular with writers and artists in the 1950s. Today it's a fashionable resort yet still retains its historic charm. Positano is a pedestrian town (with many stairs) and its pretty pastel-colored houses and abundant flowers make it very picturesque. Because of its mild climate, it can be visited year-round, although the high season is April to October.

Positano Location

Positano is at the center of the famous Amalfi Coast south of Naples. Just across from the town are Le Galli islands, three islets believed to be the residence of the mythical Sirens from Homer's Odyssey .

Getting to Positano

The closest airport to Positano is Naples. The best ways to get to Positano are by boat or by bus. The famously curvy, cliff-hugging Amalfi Coast road leading to Positano requires that drivers have nerves of steel and parking, available above the town, is very limited, although some hotels offer private parking. Positano can be reached by bus from either Sorrento or Salerno , both of which can be reached by train from Naples.

Ferries to Positano leave from Sorrento, Amalfi, Salerno, and Naples (Napoli), although less frequently outside the summer season. Positano.com posts current bus and ferry schedules.

Positano Orientation

The best way to get around is by foot as most of the town is a pedestrian zone. If you arrive by bus, you'll be near Chiesa Nuova at the top of Positano. Winding stairs called the Thousand Steps, and the main street lead down through town to the beach. There's a bus along the one main street that you can take up or down the hill. Porters are available at the start of the pedestrian zone to help with luggage. From Positano, it's possible to visit some villages, beaches, and countryside on foot. There are also car and water taxis for transport to nearby villages and beaches.

What to See and Do

• Swimming in the crystal clear waters and catching some sun on the beaches, both pebble and sand, are tops on the Positano to-do list.
• By the seaside, you can shop or have a fantastic seafood meal along the Spiaggia Grande .
• Stroll along Via Cristoforo Colombo and enjoy the shops, luxury hotels, cafes, and fantastic views. The Scalinatella stairs connect Punta Reginella on the shore with the highest part of Positano.
• The Church of Santa Maria Assunta has a beautiful majolica dome, visible from many places. Inside is an icon of the Black Madonna, painted in the 13th century in Byzantine style. Positano has many beautiful villas and palatial buildings and eight defense towers built in the 16th century.
• Visit the island of Capri  by ferry or on a tour boat.
• The Grotta la Porta cave where prehistoric remains were found is near Positano.
• There are good hiking opportunities from Positano, both along the coast and inland.
• From Positano, you can visit other towns along the Amalfi Coast on the narrow but very scenic Amalfi Drive. Take a bus or taxi. Or take a boat ride along the coast if you prefer to travel by water.
• Positano is a good starting point for many Amalfi Coast guided tours including boat excursions, driving tours, and visits to archaeological sites.

Where to Stay in Positano

• Palazzo Murat Hotel , one of Positano's most romantic hotels, is a 4-star hotel in a historic building in the center of town with views of the town and the sea.
• Villa Mary Suites , a bed and breakfast in a restored 19th-century building, offers rooms with views and breakfast served outside in nice weather.
• Villa Rosa Inn is in a 150-year-old villa with sea views built into the cliff, a 10-minute walk down the hill from the Sponda bus stop.

Positano has many high-end fashion boutiques and Moda Positano is a recognized fashion label. It's also a great place to buy sandals and footwear. Shoemakers can make shoes on request while you wait. Limoncello , a lemon alcoholic drink, is popular all over the Amalfi Coast. As there are many lemon trees on the Amalfi Coast, you'll find lots of things with lemons, including pottery decorated with lemons.

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Updated Positano Travel Guide

lemon print romper  (30% off!!) // white bikini top // bikini bottoms // fray edge hat // purple ruffle dress // straw hat

There’s just something about the Amalfi Coast in Italy that keeps calling my name. I can’t stop going there!! This past trip was my third year in a row, and now that I’m home I already have the itch to go back. People always ask what my favorite travel destination is, and without hesitation I say the Amalfi Coast. For someplace so far away, it truly feels like “home” to me. Everything from the people, the food, the views that take your breathe away and threaten your heart to stop beating – there is truly no other place like it in the world. Read on for my full travel guide to Positano – and if you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comment section and I’ll get back to you there!

How to Get There

We’ve traveled to Positano two different ways: via Rome and Naples. If you fly into Rome, the easiest route is to take a taxi from the airport to the train station (30 minutes), then a fast train to Salerno (2 hours), then a ferry to Positano (1 hour). This is the route we took last time, but I found it to be a VERY long and taxing day. This time we decided to fly into the Naples airport, instead. We ended up having more airline connections to get to Naples, but once we landed it was only a 1.5 hour drive to Positano. I personally preferred this method! It was less stressful to only have one car ride once we arrived at the airport.

Best Time to Visit

This one is tricky! Two years ago when we visited in May, it was near perfect weather. It was sunny the entire time and it was warm enough for us to wear shorts, sundresses and bikinis every day. This past trip was unbelievably chilly – it was in the 50s and 60s, with several storms and rain showers passing through the coast daily. Although it may look warm from my photos… it really wasn’t! Most of the time I had a jacket and scarf over every outfit, and I stashed them out of sight for photos. That being said, chilly weather is very atypical for the Amalfi Coast – everyone we talked to said that May is usually beautiful! Once you get into the months of June and July, things REALLY heat up in Positano. It gets incredibly hot! You should consider all of that when booking your trip. Another thing to keep in mind is the crowds. Two years ago when we came in May, it felt like such an authentic and real experience because there were hardly any tourists. This time around, though – wow it had changed! There were tourists EVERYWHERE. The streets were teeming with people holding selfie sticks and DSLR cameras, shouting in English (clearly not Italians, haha). Supposedly the crowds get even worse in June, July and August.

Where to Stay

A RENTAL : I think an Airbnb or HomeAway is a great option for Positano and is much more affordable than the hotels. We stayed in this this HomeAway for around $300/night. It is located right next to Le Sirenuse, the most expensive hotel in Positano, and offers the exact same view (but for thousands of dollars less!). This little place has everything we needed for an extended stay: two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a comfortable sofa, a TV, and a small kitchen with microwave, stovetop and refrigerator. It has a GORGEOUS patio with outdoor seating and lounge chairs, and it’s own private walkway down to the beach. It’s also located close to a market so that you can grab fresh produce and water bottles to keep at your house. If you go to my Positano highlight on Instagram, I showed a little tour of our house! If you’d rather stay at a hotel, here are some great options:

POSEIDON HOTEL : We love Poseidon Hotel, we make a point to visit every year! If you’re looking for a classic Positano hotel, this is it. It’s absolutely breathtaking, from the interior decor and patio to the views of Positano. Plus the owners are two sisters and they absolutely go out of their way to make every guest feel at home!

VILLA FIORENTINO : This is an AMAZING option if you are headed on your honeymoon! We actually rented the Honeymoon Suite solely because we wanted to take pictures at the infinity pool. This hotel is one of the most romantic I’ve ever been in! The staff here is amazing and every detail was perfectly thought out. Our room was beautifully decorated, the bed was comfortable and the bath products in the bathrooms were the most heavenly-smelling products I’ve ever used, haha. Every day they would give you a breakfast sheet and you could pick all the foods you wanted for breakfast the next morning and what time you wanted it to arrive. You will definitely want to hang out at the pools if you stay here: there are three different pools, but one is a crazy hot tub with clear panelling! It is perfect for photos (I do believe that you have to be staying at the hotel in order to use the pool.) Our best day in Positano was spent at Villa Fiorentino – it was our only hot day, and we put on our swimsuits and ate pizza and drank rose on the sundeck!

Where to Eat

Breakfast/lunch:.

COLLINA BAKERY : We went here almost every single morning for a cappuccino and a Nutella croissant! We always got it to go and then brought it back to our little house to eat on the patio. The coffee here is AMAZING, but even Italian coffee can’t beat a Nutella croissant. This croissant is OUT. OF. THIS. WORLD. By the way, Nutella in Italy is completely different than the Nutella in America! It comes in a glass jar and is made without all of the chemicals and preservatives that come in the American version. You can definitely taste the difference – it’s WAY better!

CASA E BOTTEGA : This place is sooo good for lunch! At some point during your time in Italy, you will probably crave some greens,a welcome break from pasta and bread. Or at least I did 🙂 Casa e Bottega has the best fresh juices, smoothies, salads and vegan/vegetarian meals. They even make a pasta made out of zucchini noodles!

IL TRIDENTE : We went to Hotel Poseidon one afternoon and dined at Il Tridente (the hotel’s restaurant). I had the best gnocchi that I had the ENTIRE trip! It was so fresh and delicious, my mouth is watering as I type this, haha. Hotel Poseidon also has an amazing view, you will definitely want to take pictures here!

RISTORANTE MAX : This was our favorite meal that we had the ENTIRE trip. First of all, this restaurant is not touristy at all! Second, definitely ask about the specials because those ended up being our favorite meals – my mom had some fish baked with potatoes, capers and olives and she said it was the best fish she had her ENTIRE life. I had homemade pasta with truffle (also amazing), and my brother had spaghetti with lobster. All three of us loved it so much that we made reservations again for our final night (and all three ordered the exact same thing again hahahha). Also – ask for a glass of Chianti! It was also the best wine I had the entire trip!

DA VINCENZO : This restaurant was recommended to us by our driver, Lupo. The atmosphere of this restaurant is sooo cool – it is built into the cliffs of Positano, so it looks and feels like a cave inside! There are candles lit everywhere and it feels so romantic. The food is also incredible – and definitely order the fried cheese for an appetizer.

LE TRE SORELLE :  This restaurant is located right on the beach – you have to go to the beach restaurants at least once while you’re in Positano! We could see the ocean from our table, and went right around dusk so we got to watch the sunset. I had some gnocchi with fresh tomato sauce and basil and my mom had baked fish and we both loved our meals. Definitely don’t skimp on dessert, either – their lemon cake was our favorite part of the meal!

TERRAZZA CELLE : This restaurant has a pretty fancy menu, but it is BEAUTIFUL! The terrace is absolutely one of the prettiest of Positano. Definitely make a reservation ahead of time and ask for a table with a good view – you will appreciate it when the sun is setting and all of the lights are turning on in Positano!

• RELAX! The Italians are hard workers but they have also mastered “the art of doing nothing.” Take a note from their book! It’s okay if you don’t have every day packed with activities – part of the fun of being in Italy is not having plans. Sleep in, enjoy a leisurely afternoon on your patio reading, go for a walk and stumble upon a cute cafe – take everything at a slow pace and truly soak it in while you’re there.
• Take a boat to Da Adolfo Restaurant – Grab the free boat with the red fish from the port at 11 a.m. Be sure to make reservations for the beach club ahead of time (if you’re staying at a hotel, the concierge can do this for you). Da Adolfo is about 15 minutes outside the city by boat. You can rent a lounge chair and lay in the sun for a few hours before sitting down for lunch at the restaurant. Be prepared to stay for a few hours and catch the boat back around 4 p.m.
• Visit Franco’s Bar for drinks. It opens at 5pm and there’s always a line outside, so it’s worth it to get there at 4:45 and wait for 15 minutes to be one of the first inside. Everything inside is photo-worthy, from the lemon trees planted around the restaurant to the bar’s blue and white striped awning. Their drink menu is really neat (I loved my aperol spritz) and they give you a free bowl of olives that were some of the best olives I’ve ever had in my entire life. 🙂
• Hike the  Sentiero Degli Dei  (the Path of the Gods), a trail that links Agerola to Nocelle. The name, the Path of the Gods, is an indication of how spectacular the scenery is throughout the hike.
• Spend a day at the beach. There are two: Spiaggia Grande (the bigger beach) and Spiaggia del Fornillo (the smaller beach). Spiaggia del Fornillo is less busy than the main beach, Spiaggia Grande, and just as pretty. It’s also lined with places to eat and drink so you can grab lunch between tanning sessions.
• Buy local shoes. Positano is known for their sandals and a lot of places will custom make them for you – you pick out the design and the material and they will fit the sandal to your foot.
• Shop! There are a ton of local boutiques and art/pottery stores that are really fun to peruse. All of the pottery places will ship back to the United States (even full sets of plates and mugs) so don’t worry about trying to squeeze it into your suitcase. Definitely head to Pepito’s for some linen while you’re there – they make the best shirts and dresses!
• Visit  Fiordo di Furore , an incredibly quiet and beautiful beach along the Amalfi coastline. Google it to see how beautiful it is!
• Take a boat out for the day. You can hire a private driver right on the beach (just be sure to get there early in the morning around 9 a.m.) and they will take you out on the boat. Stop by Vini e Panini for a sandwich and bottle of wine to bring with you before boarding the boat.
• Take a day trip to Ravello. Ravello is located high in the mountains above the Amalfi Coast, offering some of the beautiful views you’ll ever see in your life. While you’re in Ravello, visit the gardens of Villa Rufolo, have lunch at Villa Maria’s, and enjoy a spritz on the patio at Palazzo Avino.

How to Get Around

If you’re staying in Positano for several days, you really don’t need a car – you can get everywhere you need to go by walking, or by boat! I actually recommend that people don’t rent a car – it can be really scary to drive on the Amalfi Coast if you don’t have experience driving there. If you do choose to drive, be prepared for hairpin turns, steep cliffs, narrow lanes and dizzying heights. If you need to get somewhere that isn’t walkable, I recommend hiring a private driver. We used Mr. Lupo for transportation both to and from the Naples airport and for a day trip to Ravello. He is awesome! He was born and raised on the Amalfi Coast and knows everything about the area. I recommend booking him ahead of time – his email is [email protected].

What To Pack

This section is a little difficult to write, since we experienced vastly different weather in Positano from year to year! I would definitely check the weather forecast ahead of time. Even if you’re expected to have warm temperatures, I would still pack a rain jacket and a cardigan, since it can get cool at night. No matter what, definitely pack comfortable shoes! Not only will you be walking a lot, but you will be taking STAIRS everywhere. Positano is a village made up of stairs! I switched between my TKEES sandals and a pair of white slide-on sneakers every day. Other important items to pack include a converter and adapter (the plugs are different in Italy), a hat, a crossbody bag, and a scarf that can be worn multiple ways (as a sarong, around your neck, etc.).

Other Helpful Tips/FAQs

• You have to make reservations for nearly every single restaurant in Positano – it is actually frowned upon if you walk into a restaurant and expect to get seated without a reservation! It’s pretty easy to make reservations, though, and most restaurants allow you to make them online.
• Tipping is not expected in Italy. Most restaurants charge a cover charge (usually one or two euros per person), so they don’t expect a generous tip like in America. If the service is out of this world, then you can leave one or two euros on the table for the server.
• My last tip is weird but TRY THE CAPPUCCINO! It is unbelievable and does not taste at all like the American version. You will thank me 🙂

Like I said, if you have any other questions, feel free to leave them in the comment section and I’ll get back to you there!

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Leave a comment cancel comment, 98 comments.

Thank you for the well thought and detailed post. I love all the tips and all the pictures are absolutely gorgeous!!! This is definitely on my bucket list and this list will come in handy! It kind of reminds me of Santorini with all the stairs! Is the beach area segregated by resort or is there also a public area?

The beach is all public! 🙂 So anyone is welcome to go down and use the beach and lay out! And it’s where all of the boats are docked as well!

Hello 🙂 I know you travel often, so my question to you is luggage related. What bag or travel storage do you use for jewelry and accessories? I have not found one that I like for safekeeping. Thanks!

I use this little travel jewelry case to bring all my nice jewelry with me: https://rstyle.me/+ZvLRv6hR-fCtEjfcScKOnA It is expensive, but it is SO NICE and really high quality – it fits in my purse or carry-on luggage so I never have to check it and worry about it getting stolen. Once we arrive to our destination I will put the entire case in the safe and lock it!

HI, I’m soo excited to go this summer! Ill be there in August and I know it will be chaotic. I know in Italy they have different power outlets…I have curly/wavy hair and I dont want to always have my hair in a bun! They tend to become frizzy. What hair products and blow-dryer/curling iron did you use. your hairs looks stunning! Tks 🙂

I use MoraccanOil hair oil to reduce frizz… for hair dryer I just used the hair dryer that was available at the HomeAway and the hotel (I didn’t even pack my own!) and for curling wand I used my normal T3 wand with 1″ barrel – it is dual voltage so I only needed an adapter with it and it worked perfectly. Here’s the link to my curling wand: https://rstyle.me/+qg-56fJDcwTN-ZE4ikboWQ

Thank you!😊

There’s no destination like Positano. It’s a place that keeps calling you back. Might have to book a flight ASAP. Loved the outfits! Can you tell me what size you picked up for the lemon romper and the LPA red polka dot dress?

-Maria From Canada

Hey Maria, I ordered an XS in the red polka dot dress- it fit perfectly! I also ordered an XS in the lemon print romper but it does run a bit big – I had to clip the back of it for a photo since I didn’t have time to get it tailored. 🙂

Thank you! This is helpful. 🙂

Absolutely in love with Positano wish hubby and I had more time to go there but we are headed to Rome, next week the. Florence and then Venice about 2.5 days in each city. Currently packing so this was super handy to read because everything I packed is Florida summer outfits and checking the weather everyday it’s not as warm in Italy as I thought it would be. I did want to know about the trains did you buy tickets ahead of time or on the spot? We will mostly use the fast train to go from city to city. Although Venice I’m a little nervous with the luggage and all. Any other tiips or suggestions that you can send my way would be so helpful. Also flying out of US did you need to fill out an ESTA application or is having a US passport enough. We booked with Norwegian air and our layover is in Denmark before arriving to Rome. That’s the other part that I’m a little stressed over. Thanks so much girl really appreciate it!

We bought train tickets on the spot and it worked perfectly! A few times we had to get someone that worked there to help translate for us. We did not have to fill out an ESTA application, our US passports were enough. We had a layover in Dublin before flying to Italy and we were perfectly fine! 🙂 DON’T STRESS! Everything will work out perfectly and you will have an amazing trip!

Great tips! How much does it cost to hire a boat and driver? Considering this for my 40th birthday. I’ve been to Italy but not Positano! Thank you!

I’m not sure about the boat – it all depends on what kind of boat you want (large vs small) and for how long you want to rent the boat. We almost did a half-day excursion that was around 200 euros I believe.

Do you know which boat service you used? Was it private? My fam and I are headed there in 2 weeks and we were looking at booking a private boat in advance and it is €690 for half a day 😱 and I thousand euros for a full day to Capri. They said you can’t do Capri in a half day? 🤔 what do you suggest? Is this something I need to book an advance or just walk down there sounds like you were getting way better pricing!?

I would definitely take a ferry to Capri, instead of a private boat! The ferry is so much cheaper!! You can go to Capri in the morning and then come back in the afternoon. Although, we LOVE Capri and I would recommend staying there overnight! And definitely have dinner at Da Paolino in Capri – it’s a restaurant underneath lemon trees! If you just want to hire a private boat for a couple of hours, I would recommend just walking down to the beach and talking to the different boat companies – you can get a much better deal that way.

Hi there! I’m planning a trip to Italy in September and can’t decide between Portofino and Lake Como. Which one would you recommend? I wish I had enough time for both! Also, would you recommend staying in Capri or a day trip from Positano?

Hey Katie, Do you have time to visit both Portofino and Lake Como? They’re not that far from each other! They are both so different so it’s really hard to pick one over the other 🙂 And I would recommend staying in Capri – a day trip is not long enough to see the beauty of Capri, and you HAVE to eat at Da Paolino restaurant for dinner while you’re there!

We are flying in to Rome and taking the fast train to the ferry. Was it difficult to travel with all your luggage etc. on the ferry? Any tips for traveling this route as opposed to flying in to Naples?

Yes, it was a little bit difficult to travel by ferry with the luggage, but maybe that is because I had a huge 60 pound suitcase AND a carry-on suitcase AND a purse 🙂 If you are traveling lighter (say, with just a carry-on), then it shouldn’t be too bad. Just be sure to take the ramp to the ferry and not the stairs, we did not know there was a ramp and we carried all of our luggage down the stairs!

This was such a helpful and comprehensive guide! Everything here looks breathtakingly beautiful. Loved this post!

Hi!! So glad you posted this updated guide when you did, because me and my husband are going to Positano next week! Wondered what pool you are at in your pics? Is there a pool you can pay to go to if you aren’t staying at a hotel with a pool? So so excited to go!! Hoping it’s warm 🙂

That’s the pool at Villa Fiorentino! I believe that you have to be staying there to use the pool but I’m not positive, you could always give them a call! Maybe if you ate lunch there (they serve pizza) you could use the pool as well. Have so much fun, you will love it!!

Omg! Yes! I was at Il tridente yesterday and had the gnocchi! It was the best ever! Service was superb and the views like no other!

Thank you for the updated guide! So helpful!

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This is so helpful and timely! I’m heading to Positano next week and was debating between Ristorante Max and another, so this swayed us to Ristorante Max! This is a very comprehensive post, I was feeling anxious about some of the logistics so this was great – thank you. 🙂

Thank you for this post!! I am headed there in 2.5 weeks and have been laboring over what to pack for weeks now! 🙂 . I have 2 questions: How dressy are the restaurants? and, I am traveling with my 3 kids, aged 16, 15 and 12 –did you notice what kids wear to the restaurants? Are they causal or dressed nice? Thanks so much for such a thorough post and for taking the time to respond! You are adorable!

The lunch restaurants are pretty casual, people were wearing tops with jeans or casual dresses. For dinner, it really depends on which restaurants you go to! Ristorante Max and Da Vincenzo were the two fanciest ones we went to, ladies had on nice dresses and the men had on khaki pants and a button-up top or polo, kids were not as dressed up but still looked nice. Some of the more casual restaurants you definitely don’t have to dress up for – any of the beach restaurants are pretty casual!

Hi ! My husband and I just came back from Positano/Sorrento/Capri last week. YOne thing we noticed is you will never be overdressed at a restaurant, but do wear what is comfortable for you, especially shoes. I mostly wore dresses with a shawl/sweater wrap as it does cool off. I would advise long pants for men/boys. Shorts are not common for dinner wear at any of the restaurants we went to, they ranged from causal to fairly nice. I hope this helps.

Hi! Thank you so much for all this info. My husband and I are headed there in a few months! One question, my husband is super interested in renting a car but me not so much! Are there taxis or is a private driver the only option?? Thanks!

Hey Krista! Yes, there are taxis! Just be sure to ask the price beforehand. We did not do this and we got ripped off! 🙂

This is such an excellent guide you always look so amazing in all your pictures! My husband and I leave on Wednesday and I’m realizing a driver may be a better option than a taxi to go from the Naples airport to our hotel. Would you mind sharing how much your driver was each way? Did you use this same driver when you did your day trips? Lastly, did you see the blue lagoon in Capri? It sounds like taking the ferry to Capri and negotiating while there for a ride is the best? Thank you in advance for your thoughts!!

Your pictures make me dream about Positano! This is on my travel bucket list! XO http://www.lifeofmissg.com

Hi! Thanks so much for this guide! Your trip made me want to book!! I just have one question: what airlines do you recommend? I have never flown internationally and have no idea what airline to use!

We always use American Airlines because North Carolina is a major AA hub and most of our international flights are American Airlines! I would recommend going to google.com/flights and then searching for the dates that you want to book your trip – it will show you all of the available flights and the prices!

Hi, thanks for posting all your tips! What type of luggage do you use when traveling? I’m heading to Italy this summer and I’ve heard some suitcases don’t hold up well on the cobblestone streets.

Hey Jen, I used my Delsey luggage! The ones I brought with me to Italy are shown in this post: https://www.southerncurlsandpearls.com/airport-style/ We were fortunate and did not have to roll ours on cobblestone, however we did have to carry them up and down a very big flight of stairs. I would try to pack as light as possible so that you can carry it if needed!

Hi, my husband and I just got back from Italy and we used luggage that we could carry, I used this one ( https://www.marmot.com/long-hauler-duffel—medium-29250.html ). or if you have a backpacking pack, that would work well too. It was very useful and convenient when trying to get through crowds and areas without sidewalks/walkways. If you can pack light, I would highly recommend bringing luggage you can carry, as there is a lot of people and walking, inclines, and stairs. If you arrive by ferry, some hotels in Positano do offer a service that will bring your luggage to your hotel for 10 euro/bag. Hope this helps.

What hair dryer and curling iron do you use in Europe?

For hair dryer I used whatever was in the HomeAway and the hotel (I did not want to bring mine all the way to Italy- they are typically always provided for you wherever you’re staying!). For the curling wand, I used my normal T3 wand with 1″ barrel – it is dual voltage, the only thing you need is an adapter to be able to plug it in. Here’s the link: https://rstyle.me/+qg-56fJDcwTN-ZE4ikboWQ (it’s currently on sale!)

Thank you so much for this super helpful guide! My fiancé and I are planning our trip to Positano in early September following our wedding day 🙂 any honeymoon must dos? <3

Love this Cait! Positano looks like such a stunning place!

Michael @ Mile in My Glasses

Obsessed with all of your pictures here! <3

Blondie in the City

how long would you suggest to plan for a positano trip ? love the post <3 thank you so much

If this is your first trip to the Amalfi Coast, I would recommend staying in a few different villages while you are there! The first time we went, we stayed 4 days in Positano, 3 days in Ravello and then another 3 in Capri and it was the perfect amount of time in each place. 🙂

Im going with my boyfriend in September! Im so excited first time we are going to Positano, I haven’t planned anything yet but I want to follow your itinerary to a T! 🙂 How far is Capri from Positano? do you take boat or car? Do you know what weather is like end of Sept?

Yes it is beautiful and I once had that bug years ago and it’s nearly satisfied. Too busy for me these days but so Beautiful and charming. The best month is well I can’t tell you because too many people have been coming to Italy in the past twenty years. More and more and no place is quiet like it once was. Enjoy everyone.

I absolutely loved this post. I pinned almost every picture to my Pinterest boards. Beautiful! Thanks for putting all this detail together. Very informative. Bobbi Jo

Thanks so much Bobbi Jo, you are so sweet! 🙂

Hello! Where in Positano were you when you were in the pool with the white swan?

That was the hotel Villa Fiorentino in the Honeymoon Suite!

You have no idea what a BLESSING this post is to me. My fiancé are headed to Positano and all of Southern Italy in September and I had so many questions! Neither of us have been before and having this is incredible so THANK YOU SIS! Also this outfit inspo is on point. Shopping your links now! XOXO @el.emental

Hey, I love this post! I remember seeing in your IG stories where you bought some plate ware and shipped back to US. Where was that at?!

This is truly amazing Caitlin! Such a great resource!

xo Laura Leigh http://www.louellareese.com

Love this post! We are going in September and are first timers, so this is extremely helpful! When you went from Naples to Positano, I’m guessing you used a car service? Do you have any recommendations on which to use? Thanks so much! 🙂

Yes! We used Mr. Lupo! I put his contact details in this blog post haha

Shoot, totally missed that, sorry! Thanks again 🙂

Hey Caitlin! I enjoyed reading this post, and the views in Positano are incredible! I hope to visit there one day. Maybe I’ll send this link to my man, and see what he thinks! Okay, here’s my question: Is there a language barrier in Positano? Did you have to translate at all, or what is it like as far as communication? Thanks!

Hey Caitlyn, there is not really a language barrier! Every Italian that we encountered spoke English very well, and every single restaurant had an English menu so it was really easy to order food 🙂

I’m visiting Positano for the first time in September, so I’m very appreciative of this blog post!! I have to ask though, in the photo of you around the garden-like area and the last photo of you in the mini pool, where are these places!? I must go!! 💕

The gardens are Villa Rufolo in Ravello, and the mini pool is at Villa Fiorentino (a hotel in Positano). 🙂

Love this post! We are heading to Positano in 3 weeks to get married! Eek! Just wondering if you have links for your swimsuits? For some reason it doesn’t take me anywhere when I click the photos.

Need to know, where you got pizza and those pizza boxes! Would love them for pics.

Love love love this post. I also wanted to ask how were you able to take pictures with no one around and who took them for you?

Great guide! LOVE it all. It will be very helpful. I am going in a few weeks with my two teenage daughters and we are staying at The Hotel Poseiden! Would you suggest emailing the hotel now to make reservations to Restaurant Max, Da Vincenzo and, of course, Il Tridente or wait until we check in? I also want to do Chez Black for lunch, do I need a reservation? Thanks for your help.

I loved this post! And you have such cute outfits!

How do you deal with traveling so much back to back…I feel overwhelmed when I have to pack & unpack from staying at my boyfriends place twice a week 😂 if you have any tips for staying organized in between trips, please share!

I am so glad I stumbled across your post in Positano! I will be visiting in July so the tips and suggestions are very helpful. Although I do have a question. We are traveling from Rome by train and stopping in Naples for Pompeii. Thinking about taking train to Salerno. Did you experience the ferry? Thank you. ☺️

We’re in Positano right now! Spent the day yesterday at Da Adolfo. Fun and delicious. Weather is up and down but it’s so beautiful it doesn’t matter. Thanks for the shopping tips, will hit some of those later today!

such a great travel guide! I love Italy. Beautiful vacation outfits too.

Great post! It’s great to read it and it’s really helpful!

The pool is my fave, it’s like your own personal relaxing moment!

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Thank you for sharing all of this! I am headed to Italy on Tuesday for the month of June, and I’m actually staying in the exact same Positano apartment!😍 do you mind sharing what the shipping costs were like at the little shops? I know I’m going to find a lot I want to ship home!❤️

What an amazing guide. Can you please share which specific rental you got at HomeAway? Thanks a lot.😉

It’s actually linked in the blog post!

Hi Caitlin,

Wondering again what restaurant you got the pizza and pizza boxes from in positano?

This post is great. So many places I want to see when I visit next month. I’m wondering where is that beautiful terrace you are standing on? In the orange dress? Looks like the photo was taking from higher up.

That was taken at Villa Rufolo in Ravello!

Such a helpful post for my upcoming trip! Couple of questions: 1. How do you recommend getting from Naples airport to Positano? You mentioned a car ride – was this an uber, taxi, rental, etc.? 2. What is the location of the last photo in this post? (with the glass pool). It is stunning!

Hey Sarah! Here are the answers to your questions: 1.We hired a private driver – his contact details are actually in this blog post! He is awesome! 2. The location is Villa Fiorentino Hotel. I’m pretty sure you have to be staying there to use the pool, but you could always call and ask! 🙂

Hi just read your blog !! We usually pick different region of Italy every year and explore . Next year in May planning Positano. How man y days is best to stay and relax and enjoy the coast ?

My husband and I are excited for the vacation we’ve booked in Spain and definitely we will go to the Canary. Tenerife is one of our eyeing place for our 1st stop There so many thing we want to do from a page we’ve read https://www.canaryislandsinfo.co.uk/tenerife/places/taganana/ . I wanted to know if you have experience traveling to this wonderful Island.

Thanks for this!!! You are my all time favorite blogger, just the cutest!!! we just booked our honeymoon to Italy I’m going to try and copy your itinerary!! The home away place is sold out so we booked Hotel Poseidon. Thanks!!

Did you go to Capri? Or Florence what do you recommend?

Thanks sweet girl! Xoxo

It has attraction that no girl can say no to! Beautiful outfits in your post 💙

This is amazing and I will be referring back to this in a few years, because we’ve chosen Italy as our honeymoon destination. At first we weren’t considering the Amalfi Coast, but now I’m reconsidering! Thanks for the tips!!

K A T E L A T E L Y || fashion & lifestyle blog http://www.katelately.co

Do you have any specifics of the travel info? Specifically asking which Rome airport to fly into, which train station you went to Salerno, and the ferry company/location to Positano! Please!

Love this travel guide! We’re going in the spring and I can’t wait to try some of your suggestions! I’m definitely interested in checking out the sandals–so cool that you can get them custom made! Xoxo

What hotel is the one photo taken at where you’re wearing the black and white bathing suit?!

Caitlin, One reason we are visiting Positano next week is because of your posts! I came back to look at your suggestions and appreciate them so much – but also I recall an earlier post where you were talking about a lemon Grove restaurant – I feel like you thought that particular one was a little over the top and maybe the food wasn’t so great, but I wonder if there’s another restaurant which has lemons growing overhead that you have enjoyed? For some reason I really want to experience that in Italy ….

Thank you!!

Hey Susan, That restaurant was actually in Capri, not Positano – it is called Da Paolino Restaurant and it is AMAZING! The food is incredible and of course the lemon trees! That is the only restaurant I went to in Positano and Capri that had lemons growing overhead. It is definitely worth it!

Hi! I’m looking to plan a honeymoon in June and you have posted amazing details about both my dream locations! Would you recommend the Amalfi coast or St.Lucia for a honeymoon?

I’d like to subscribe

Are you familiar with the Hotel Marincanto in Positano? I have booked it for October.

Hi there! Love your post, such awesome information. Could you tell me the location of the photo you took under the “TERRAZZA CELLE” – beautiful and want to make sure it’s on my list to see that view. Is that at Terrazza Celle? That was my assumption, but wanted to make sure. I appreciate it and your entire post!

Can I ask what kind of luggage you used? I’ve heard because of the stairs it’s not ideal to use a normal rolling suitcase. Me and my husband are going to Italy for 10 days and I have NO idea how I could pack for 10 days of outfits in a large backpack😅 any tips are greatly appreciated!

I love the majorElle blue plaid dress! I am going to Italy this summer and would love to wear it but it is no longer in stock. Do you still have it? Could I buy it from you?

Hello . Im planning to go with my wife to capri and positano? Im planning seven days. I dont know how to divide the days. Is capri a good 3 nights? Positano 4 nights or vise versa? Have you heard of da luigi in capri heard is better than fontelina. How to take private boats to crusie around when in capri or positano . I heard one fire beach in priano is good also. Where to stay in capri or positano for 300/400$ a night?

Gorgeous photos. Beautiful girl. I want to order that flouncy black and white two piece for my daughter!

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The ultimate travel guide to Positano

If you are planning to visit Positano soon, this travel guide to Positano is for you! Today we will share with you all our tips and tricks about this destination. We have just been to Positano for the second time and it was an amazing trip. Positano is really pretty and has so much charm! Every corner is pretty, you will fall in love with these typical colorful houses in the rocks, the ambiance, the local shops, the views on the sea and of course the food. We have eaten our weight in pasta and pizza, we couldn’t resist!

Positano is definitely one of our favorites destinations in Europe in summer. This is why today we wanted to share everything about our trip and give you all our recommendations. If you are planning to visit Positano soon, read on! 😉

How to get to Positano?

In this travel guide to Positano , we will share with you the 3 main ways to get to Positano. This little city is located on the Amalfi coast , just after Pompei and Naples and near Sorrento. You can get there by plane, train or renting a car.

The closest airport from Positano is Naples . Once you have arrived in Naples, you have two choices. You can either take the train, you can count 2 hours to Sorrento and then take a taxi or SITA bus from Sorrento to Positano. You can also take a ferry from Naples to Positano.

If you are doing a long Italy trip like us, you can come from another Italian, city to Sorrento easily by train. The train is not expensive in Italy and it’s really clean and comfy. During our Italy road trip, we came from Cinque Terre (La Spezia) to Pompéi. We came across Florence, Rome, Naples and finally Pompéi. You can read our post about our amazing experience with an interrail pass . Next, we took the local subway (Circumvesuviana) who brung us to Sorrento. Then to go from Sorrento to Positano, you can take the SITA bus or take a taxi. During summer there is a bus really frequently and it is only 2€ per person.

We first wanted to rent a car at the Pompei train station but it was really expensive (more than 100$ per day) and it’s really hard to find a place to park in Positano. Also, all the parking are really expensive.

Travel tip : The best solution is to take the local subway and the SITA bus.

How to get around on the Amalfi coast?

I have good news: it’s really easy to get around on the Amalfi coast ! If you are not staying in Positano but in Sorrento like us, Piano di Sorrento, Fiordo de Furore or Amalfi , you can take the SITA bus. This bus is going from Sorrento to Amalfi several times per day. It starts around 8:00 am and ends around 11:00 pm.

Also, this is really cheap. For us, it was the best solution! Be careful during the high season, between June/September there are many people in the bus, so the best solution is to take the first one (around 9 am) and don’t count on the last one at 11:00 pm , that is often full. Indeed, it’s better to take the one just before the last (around 10 pm). You can see the schedule here . All the stops are not written but you can use google maps to check out your stop.

What activities to do in Positano?

Get lost in the little streets.

Walking in the little streets of Positano is magical! Every corner is so pretty, local shops, fruit markets, cute restaurants… The ambiance is unique . When you arrive in Positano you will be in the weights of the city, you can take the stairs to go down to the main beach, la Spiaggia Grande and cross the shops. You will also see the beautiful Santa Maria Assunta, the beautiful church with the golden dome. Just behind the church is the main beach. It’s really pretty: clear water, orange chairs and the view on the typical houses in the rocks. You really feel the Italian vibes! We have found the best places and restaurants when being lost in the streets.

Enjoy the Italian beaches

The main beach, la Spiaggia Grande , is beautiful. But the free part is really small and there are many people! And I will be honest, the private beach is really expensive (20$ per person for the day) and you can count 10$ more to have a beach umbrella. There is also another beach in Positano, called the Piaggia di el Fornillo  that is less touristy and the beach chair and umbrellas are less expensive (10$ per person).

Do a boat tour

We went for an amazing 1-hour sunset cruise with @bluestarpositano and we had a fantastic time! The weather was not great so we could not have seen the sunset but we have spent a really good time crossing the sea along the beautiful Amalfi coast . It was so romantic! We have spent a moment together with JE, admiring the beautiful view, drinking champaign and eating fresh fruits. We even had the chance to see dolphins when we came back to the harbor!

Eat typical Italian food

Obviously, you need to eat typical Italian food in Positano! You will find the best hoven made pizza, the best gelato flavors, and cappuccinos! Seriously for 3 days in Positano, we have eaten the best pizza and Gelato ever!

Where are the best restaurants?

This travel guide to Positano wouldn’t be complete without a list of the best restaurants in Positano! There are many amazing Italian restaurants in Positano. You need to know that as Positano is near Naples, the main specialty is pizza!

To find a great restaurant, just have to walk in the streets and stop when you like the ambiance and the menu! But we will tell you our favorites ones in case it helps you to choose!

♡ Chez Black

It is a pizzeria located on the main beach. They are well known for their super cute heart-shaped pizza !

♡ Bucca di Baccio

This restaurant is also located on the beach but on the right. We loved taking away pizzas from there and eat them on the beach!

♡ Bruno Ristorante

We absolutely loved this one! It is located on the heights or Positano, and the view is amazing. Also the food is really good, we highly avise you tot ry the gnocchis pomodorro with a Spritz !

It is a beautiful and chic restaurant located in the heights of Positano. You need a reservation. We had lunch there and we have eaten amazing Gnocchis. Also, the view of the city is insane!

Where to stay on the Amalfi coast?

There are several beautiful luxury hotels in Positano . If you can afford it, you definitely should book one of these! But if you are traveling to Positano on a budget, you can easily find cute B&B on booking on the Amalfi coast and come to Positano for the day.

Are you planning to visit Positano soon?

Positano is a must to see! Even if this city is really expensive and touristy, it is a beautiful city to visit . We really loved our stay on the Amalfi coast, especially Positano ! It is a beautiful city and it definitely worths a visit. It is amazing to just walk in the streets, find points of view, chill on the beach, finding cute corners, and eat Italian food. We hope you liked this travel guide to Positano. If you are planning to visit the Amalfi coast , let us know in the comments! 🙂 Don’t forget to follow our adventures on Instagram !

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January 17, 2023 By Lyndsay

Is Positano Worth Visiting?: 13+ Tips for Visiting this Beautiful Italian City

• 1 Is Positano worth visiting?
• 2.1 1. Make reservations in advance
• 2.2 2. Remember, many restaurants close in the afternoon
• 2.3 3. Be prepared for stairs
• 2.4 4. Plan ahead if you get carsick or seasick
• 2.5 5. Go during the off-season to avoid tourists
• 2.6 6. You need to see the city from the water on a boat tour
• 2.7 7. Make sure to try limoncello or anything made with Amalfi lemons
• 2.8 8. Don’t skip the city’s museums
• 2.9 9. Explore the city on foot
• 2.10 10. Carry cash with you
• 2.11 11. Make sure to spend some time on the beach
• 2.12 12. Save money on accommodation by volunteering in a hostel
• 2.13 13. It’s easy to take day trips from here to other cities on the Amalfi Coast
• 3.1 Where is Positano, Italy?
• 3.2 How expensive is Positano?
• 3.3 Is Positano walkable?
• 3.4 Is Positano crowded?
• 3.5 Is Positano safe?
• 3.6 When is the best time to go to Positano?
• 3.7 What are the best restaurants in Positano?
• 4.2 Car or Taxi
• 4.5 Private Transfer
• 5 What to Pack for Positano, Italy
• 6 Is Positano Worth Visiting?: Wrap-Up

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

Positano is one of Italy’s most picturesque cities, located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy.

The city is known for its dramatic cliffs and brightly colored buildings that line the winding streets.

But is Positano worth visiting?

I asked Sammy Green from My Blonde Bucket List to share her take on the idealized Italian destination.

Positano is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, offering stunning views and plenty of exciting things to see and do.

From relaxing days spent lounging by the beach to exploring centuries-old churches and monuments, whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning an extended stay, here are some essential Positano travel tips for making your trip unforgettable!

Is Positano worth visiting?

Absolutely! Positano is a breathtakingly beautiful city that is well worth exploring. From its sweeping views to its rich culture and history, there is something for everyone in this fantastic Italian destination.

It’s a terrific city to explore with friends and family, or even if you’re traveling solo .

Tips for Visiting Positano

1. make reservations in advance.

Decent hotels, restaurants, and other attractions can get booked up quickly in Positano, so making reservations as far as possible is best.

Being organized will help avoid any disappointment–this is one of the most important Positano tips!

This is particularly important if you plan to visit during the high season in the summer months.

2. Remember, many restaurants close in the afternoon

If you want an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal, you might need to plan ahead.

Throughout Italy, many restaurants close in the afternoon between lunch and dinner because of riposo, Italy’s siesta period .

If there’s a restaurant, you definitely want to eat at, confirm their hours in advance and make that reservation.

The same goes for many of the locally-owned, designer boutiques in town, too.

3. Be prepared for stairs

A hilly city means stairs–and lots of them! Many of the streets in Positano are too narrow for cars, so you’ll often be walking up and down flights of stairs.

This means Positano isn’t the best Italian city to visit if you need wheelchair accessibility .

A pair of comfortable walking shoes are going to be your best friend! If you’re staying in Positano, looking into how you access your accommodation may be necessary.

Having a trolley bag that is easy to maneuver over cobblestones and steps could make your life a whole lot easier, or even better, a backpack may be your best bet if there’s going to be a fair amount of steps to climb.

4. Plan ahead if you get carsick or seasick

Positano is a hilly city with tight and windy roads, so if you get carsick easily, you’ll want to be prepared.

Similarly, if you’re prone to seasickness, then make sure to take the necessary precautions before taking a boat ride.

Having some motion sickness medication on hand is a good idea, and if you choose to take a public bus, try to get a seat near the front to minimize the effects.

5. Go during the off-season to avoid tourists

Positano is a popular tourist destination and can get crowded during peak season.

However, visiting during the off-season (autumn and winter) is much quieter.

Although it’ll be a bit too cold to enjoy a sun lounger on the Marina Grande Beach, Spiaggia Grande, underneath a bright beach umbrella, you’ll find fewer people and lower prices!

6. You need to see the city from the water on a boat tour

To appreciate the beauty of Positano, you need to see it from the beautiful blue water.

Taking a boat tour is definitely worth it; this is where you’ll get the best view of the dramatic cliffs and the colorful houses that line the coast.

There are plenty of boat tour operators in Positano, so feel free to shop around for the best price.

7. Make sure to try limoncello or anything made with Amalfi lemons

You have yet to go to Italy unless you’ve had limoncello .

The Amalfi Coast is known for its lemons, so try some local delicacies, such as limoncello or any dish made with these delicious lemons – you won’t regret it!

You can find more information here if you need to learn more about Italy’s drinking laws.

8. Don’t skip the city’s museums

Positano is full of stunning museums, churches, and art galleries worth checking out.

The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta church is a sight to behold with its colorful Byzantine-style domes.

And don’t miss the Museo della Carta museum, which is dedicated to producing handmade paper.

9. Explore the city on foot

The best way to get around Positano is by walking, as it is more scenic and less chaotic than driving or taking public transport.

Positano is small enough that most attractions can be reached on foot, so you can easily explore the city on foot.

As mentioned above, the streets of Positano can be relatively narrow, which makes parking pretty tricky, so exploring on foot is much less stressful.

10. Carry cash with you

Be sure to have cash on you at all times, as some of the businesses in smaller towns, such as Positano, don’t accept credit cards.

You’ll only need a small amount, but it saves being caught out if you’re super thirsty on a hot day and desperate to buy water!

11. Make sure to spend some time on the beach

Positano is also worth visiting for its gorgeous beaches.

Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach, is one of the town’s most famous photo spots, with incredible panoramic views of the city rising above the beach.

But if you’re looking for a more secluded experience, there are plenty of options nearby.

Laurito Beach is just a short bus ride away and can be accessed by a stairwell from a small piazza opposite Hotel San Pietro.

This tiny cove is surrounded by craggy rocks and cliffs, and it’s home to the Treville Beach Club, with its restaurant and hotel rooms providing some peace from the rest of the city

Further along the coast is Arienzo Beach, a small pebbly beach at the end of a 300-step trek, with both public beach and private beach areas.

The Arienzo Beach Club offers an excellent aperitivo service, including a shuttle boat back to Positano’s main pier.

12. Save money on accommodation by volunteering in a hostel

Volunteering in a hostel is a fantastic way to save money while traveling in expensive places such as Positano.

It also allows you to stay in a particular location for a lot longer and truly immerse yourself in it.

Become familiar with the pros and cons of volunteering in a hostel to decide whether this could be for you or not.

13. It’s easy to take day trips from here to other cities on the Amalfi Coast

Positano is an excellent base for exploring other cities on the Amalfi Coast.

You can easily take day trips to nearby towns such as Sorrento, Salerno, and Ravello.

To get around, you can either rent a car or take one of the frequent buses that run between the various towns.

Positano Travel Tips: FAQs

Where is Positano, Italy?

Positano is a town located on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. It is known for its amazing views and is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations.

If you’re flying directly to the Amalfi Coast, you will likely land in Naples before making your way to Positano.

The closest major city and the international airport is Naples, which is about two hours away by car or train.

How expensive is Positano?

Positano is an expensive destination as it is a popular tourist area.

However, if you shop around, there are still plenty of good deals to be found.

Prepare for restaurants, accommodation, and activities to be more costly than in other parts of Italy.

Another tip for visiting Positano is that if you want to save money on accommodation, staying in Sorrento is a good option since it takes a little time to reach Positano by car.

Is Positano walkable?

Positano is a very walkable city; however, you need to navigate stairs and steep hills to get around.

The city is small enough that you can explore it on foot, but you’ll need to walk through narrow streets and winding staircases to reach the center of town and the beach.

The main attractions in Positano are all within walking distance of each other, so it’s easy to get around without relying on public transportation.

Once you’re above the city, buses and taxis are available to get around for anyone who prefers not to walk.

Is Positano crowded?

Positano can be quite crowded during the peak tourist season, which runs from April to October.

Throughout this season, the city is filled with tourists and locals, making it difficult to find a quiet spot.

However, if you visit outside of these months, you’ll find that Positano is much less crowded and more peaceful.

Is Positano safe?

Positano is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is always important to take precautions when traveling.

As with any city, pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur, so it’s smart to keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings.

When is the best time to go to Positano?

The best time to go is in the spring and autumn when the temperature is milder, and the crowds are smaller.

However, summer is still a great time to visit as temperatures can reach up to 30°C, perfect for swimming in the crystal clear azure waters of the Amalfi Coast.

The city can get quite crowded during the peak summer season, so it’s best to book your accommodation in advance if you plan on visiting during this time.

Since it’s such a coastal city, you’ll probably want to miss the cooler months if you want to make the most of the gorgeous beaches.

What are the best restaurants in Positano?

Positano is known for its delicious seafood-based regional cuisine.

Some of the best restaurants to try include Ristorante Max Positano, Terrazza Celè, and Il Ritrovo.

Try one of the local trattorias, such as La Tagliata, Cafe Latteria, or Il Grottino Azzurro, for a more budget-friendly option.

Osteria le Tre Sorelle is a family-run beachfront restaurant that has been around since the 1950s, offering fresh, traditional seafood options.

Palazzo Murat Restaurant is an excellent choice for those looking for something more refined.

For a truly unique dining experience, book a table at the Rada Beach Bistrot. Situated right on the beach, you can enjoy your meal with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

How to Get to Positano

Bus travel is the cheapest and most convenient way to get to Positano from Naples.

You can take a direct bus from Naples Airport or the central railway station.

The journey is around two hours and is relatively inexpensive compared to taxis or private transfers.

Car or Taxi

Thankfully, you don’t need to rent a car yourself to get to Positano; you can hire a car or take a taxi from Naples Airport.

It is quite a bit more expensive than the bus but much more convenient if you have lots of luggage or need to be somewhere quickly.

Trains run between Naples Central Station and the Sorrento train station, the closest railway to Positano.

Unfortunately, there are no direct local or high-speed trains to Positano from Naples.

You can take a bus or taxi from Sorrento to the beautiful town center of Positano.

The drive takes just over half an hour.

My favorite way to reach Positano and all of the other famous coastal towns on the Amalfi Coast is by taking a ferry from the Molo Beverello port in Naples.

You can buy ferry tickets from ticket stands at the port.

The boat trip only takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and you’ll be met with jaw-dropping views on the way.

Private Transfer

You can book a private transfer from Naples Airport or Naples Central Station.

This is by far the most comfortable and convenient way to get to Positano, as your driver will take you directly there without any stops.

However, this is also the most expensive option as it is usually charged per person or vehicle.

What to Pack for Positano, Italy

Positano is a beach town, so you’ll need to make sure you pack beachwear, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

You should also bring some light clothing such as dresses, shorts, and t-shirts – basically anything that’s easy to throw over your swimsuit after you’ve been for a dip in the ocean.

If you’re visiting in the cooler months, you’ll want a couple of options for layers. Some days are cooler in the mornings and evenings but warm up during daylight hours, so you’ll want to be prepared for the different options.

Remember comfortable shoes for exploring the city on foot too!

Finally, be sure to remember to pack your camera. Positano is full of beautiful views and begging you to take a snapshot or two.

Is Positano Worth Visiting?: Wrap-Up

By now, I hope you agree that Positano is definitely worth visiting. Its incredible views, delicious seafood cuisine, and stunning beaches make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy some of Italy’s best sights.

Stay for a weekend or stay for a week!

Remember these Positano travel tips when planning your trip, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time in this beautiful destination.

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Travel - July 18, 2016

Positano city guide.

I’ve been looking forward to writing this post ever since the moment I got back to the states from visiting the Amalfi Coast. I’m so excited to tell you all about my experience in Positano specifically, and spill all the details on all the things to see and do in Positano, Italy. It only takes ONE photo of the BEAUTIFUL city to get the city on your bucket list because let’s face it, the place is irresistible. It’s so pretty and when you’re there, it literally doesn’t even feel real – it feels straight out of a movie!

Where To Stay in Positano

Depending on what time of year you go, the prices will fluctuate a bit. During the high season (usually May – August), prices will be at the highest so you might want to consider going in September or even October if you’re fine with chillier temps (but the upside is that it would be less crowded!).

Like any beautiful, touristy city, there are some fabulous hotels to stay at with exceptional views, food and pool-side situations. If you didn’t know, Positano is build on a hill, which you can tell from all the beautiful photos of the city and there’s really only ONE main road winding through the city and it’s ONE way. To name a few of the nicest, best hotels located in the middle of everything, there’s Villa Franca at the top of the hill (see  Villa Franca Hotel Hotel Review ), Hotel Poseidon  halfway down and then Le Sirenuse at the bottom (only steps away from the beach). Aside from hotels though, many of the popular cities in Italy (especially along the coast) have a variety of B&B options or smaller hotels that are more intimate and not as crazy expensive.

In total, I spent 6 nights in Positano on my last trip, but they were split up by a trip to Ischia and Capri so I stayed at different places. During my first 3 nights, I stayed at Hotel Villa Franca and wrote ALL about it in this blog post . When I went back to Positano the next week, I had a completely different experience (yet just as amazing!) and stayed at an apartment called Villa Casa A’Scalinatella , which is similar to something you’d find on Airbnb.

Top Or Bottom of The Hill?

This is a great question and my initial response would be that it depends on what you’re looking for. I’ve stayed at both the top and bottom of the hill and enjoyed both experiences. The view from my room while stayed at the top was pretty hard to beat, but I suppose you could always venture for drinks up there if you’d rather stay at the bottom. Most of the restaurants and “life” of the city is closer to the beach (at the bottom), so if you can help it, I would suggest staying near the bottom. Plus, that’s less steps you’ve got to hike up and down each day. But either way, you REALLY can’t go wrong because it’s all so beautiful and I guarantee you’ll be happy regardless :)

Before closing the book on this question though I want to mention that if you are staying UP the hill, then please know that it’s possible for you to hire a porter to carry your luggage (when you get off the ferry). Honestly, even if you’re at the bottom (or near) of the hill, you’ll want to get some help with your bags. If you’re arriving via ferry, just look for the guys with the porter carts and ask they if you could get your bags delivered. They might have signs that say different hotels no them, but you can hire them even so. It will cost you 10 euros a bag, but it’s money well spent. TRUST ME.

How to Get to Positano

The best airport to fly into is probably going to be Rome or Naples depending on which airline you’re flying. If can book your airfare all the way to Naples, that’s great. But if not, you can easily catch the train from Rome to Naples if you need to. And once you get to Naples, your best option for getting to Positano is hiring a private driver (which should be anywhere between 110-160 euros). You should be able to contact the place you’re staying and ask them to book it for you or find something online. I think the company that I used was called Positano Limousine service maybe? I meant to keep the card, but I lost it (sorry friends!).

If you’re traveling from Sorrento (the other side of the peninsula), you can either take the “SITA” bus (8 euros) or get a private car if you’ve got too much luggage to mess with (70 euros). Either way, the drive is only about 35 minutes – it’s SUPER close! But warning, it’s a VERY windy ride and so if you get car sick easily, I would just make sure you bring water and eat before.

Oh and if you’re coming from Capri, you can take a ferry directly to Positano ! It’s so easy and convenient! But just a heads up, be sure to buy tickets for your luggage if you have more than one big suitcase per person (its 2 euros per extra bag).

Things To Do in Positano

I’m sure any touristy website will give you the rundown of all the BEST things to do in Positano – all of which will probably say something similar that I’m about to. I’m going to simply suggest slash talk about the things I actually did myself and then mention a few other things I’ve got on my list for next time.

Hike the Path of Gods – I’m sure you’ve heard about this hike as it’s probably one of the most popular thigns to do while visiting the Amalfi coast. But unlike the Chinque Terre hike, it’s not super crowded or touristy. I went in June and only ran into 3 people during the entire 4 hour hike so that was REALLY nice! There’s a few different ways you can do it and options when it comes to where you start and how you finish. But I would make sure you block off an entire morning or afternoon for this and be sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen! For reference, this blog post has a lot of useful, helpful information pertaining to the hike if you need more details.

Go To D’alfonso (entire afternoon) – take a water taxi to this hip and fun little island where you can have lunch and hang out on a private beach for the afternoon. I’ve never been but I’ve heard SO MANY good things. I’m FOR SURE going to do this during the first few days of my next trip back!

Private Boat Ride – I went on one with my hotel, but you can walk down there anytime and check availability. They’ll take you all along the coast and point out all the cities, giving you a little history on each – I LOVED getting to see everything from the water and take note of what I wanted to visit later!

Grab a drink at one of the bars/restaurants I recommended in this post

Spend an afternoon at the beach –  The beach at Positano (there’s more than one!) is world famous for a reason! If crowds don’t bother you, then grab some wine and friends and spend a few hours soaking up the sun!

Walk around the town and peek into all the cute little local shops. I was surprised by how much shopping there was in Positano. It’s different than Capri in that it’s not all designer or overpriced – there’s much more of a local feel to it which I enjoyed!

Where to Eat (and where NOT to eat) in Positano

As I’m sure you can imagine based on it’s sheer beauty and breath-taking views, Positano is a HUGE tourist attraction. And aside from relaxing at your hotel pool, odds are you’ll probably be fighting a bit of a crowd just about anywhere you venture. I’m probably going to catch some slack for saying this, but I just want to be honest and give you guys the most transparent feedback possible (like I would if my best friend were asking for travel tips – you know?).

From my experience, most of the restaurants along the beach (or at least the ones that are asking for attention) are going to be somewhat of touristy traps with overpriced not-so-great food and subpar service. For instance, I went to the highly-recommended (by famous tourist websites AND my hotel concierge!) restaurant the first night it and it was pretty awful – I’ll start with that one since I just mentioned it and then continue in NO particular order.

1. La Cambusa  (Thumbs Down)

Trip Advisor Rating : #27 of Restaurants in Positano Star Rating : 4 Stars My Rating: AVOID this place

Thoughts/Experience: the first night and to be honest, I thought it was AWFUL. Haha like I said, I’m not holding back on the honesty front! And even though I had a pretty sub-par experience, I ended up paying 70 euros for MY (aka 1 person) meal, which is a pretty insane price for a not-so-extravagant meal if you ask me! And I think the same goes for any of the flashy spots along the beach. But again, I could be wrong – this was just my experience.

2. Restaurant Max’s  (Thumbs Up)

Trip Advisor Rating: #15 of Restaurants in Positano Star Rating: 4.5 Star Rating My Rating: Loved it! GREAT location and the food was amaze for me!

Thoughts/Experience: I tried a few different restaurants that were in the middle of town and this was the only one that didn’t feel (and taste) overrated and super touristy. I was pleasantly surprised by how great it was and I loved the outside environment. I went with my mom and two friends while in Positano and it was delightful – highly recommend!

3. Da Vincenzo  (Thumbs Up)

Trip Advisor Rating: #8 of Restaurants in Positano Star Rating: 4.5 Stars My Rating : LOVED this spot – the food and atmosphere were lovely! Insider Tip: Make a reservation for this spot at least 3 days in advance and ask to sit outside on the OTHER side of the street (so you’ll have a view of the town and ocean)

Thoughts/Experience: If you take a stroll up the main road and past a few curves (yes, you’re calves are burning by now), you’ll run into this little spot and quickly realize it’s worth checking out since it’s always packed with people. I got a recommendation to go here from the cab driver that drove me to the start of the Path of Gods hike. We actually had reservations at another restaurant (La Tragliata) and he told me to cancel those and try and get in with Da Vincenzo. Unfortunately, they were booked for a solid week, BUT I was able to get a table for the next week (since I knew I was coming back!). And of course, it did NOT disappoint.

4. Da Gabrisa  (Thumbs Up)

Trip Advisor Rating: #11 of Restaurants in Positano with a 4.5 Star Rating My Rating: FABULOUS! Insider Tip: Go before it gets dark so you can watch the sun set from your dinner table! And be sure you’re able to sit at one of the tables outside if possible!

Thoughts/Experience:  Loved everything about this place and this view was amazing, but the best part is that it’s a little out of the way of all the chaos so it’s got a more intimate and less-touristy setting (but still has a view). I talked about how much I LOVED this place and showed y’all the fabulous view in my blog post about where to grab a glass of wine in Positano . But obvi, it’s a FAB place to eat dinner as well – the food was amazing AND the locals recommended it!

5. Ristorante La Sponda  (Thumbs Down…too expensive)

Trip Advisor Rating: #6 of Restaurants in Positano My Rating/Thoughts: Although fabulous, I think this place is way too over-priced, experience the setting and view from Le Sirenuse hotel (where the hotel is located) by grabbing a drink at the Champagne & Oyster bar as I mentioned in my where to grab wine in Positano blog post .

6. De Constantino  (Thumbs Down)

Trip Advisor Rating: #7 of Restaurants in Positano My Rating : meh…not impressed Insider Tip: heads up, this is one of those places where THEY come and pick you up! It’s pretty common in Positano since the hill is so intense and there aren’t two-way streets. It’s actually really neat how they do that!

Thoughts/Experience: We went to this place one of the nights while there and I have to admit, I wasn’t too impressed. I have a feeling there are probably a ton of people who would disagree with me, BUT I’m just sayin’…I didn’t think it was  that  special! And plus, the food wasn’t that great – and I tried what my two friends got too! This is one of those places where they come and pick you up (like La La Tagliata  – also up the hill and come to pick you up – which the locals told me to avoid haha although it has amazing reviews on Trip Advisor and is #8 of Restaurants in Positano!)

Other Restaurants

I didn’t get a chance to try these, but I’ve heard great reviews about these three spots! Please comment below if you’ve been and let us know about your experience so others can read :)

Chez Black – heard a lot of great things about this place, but unfortunately, I never got the chance to try it out! Have you been? What did you think and did you have a good experience?

Next2  – I met some honeymooners who only have 2 nights in Positano and this is where they were going on their 2nd night, so I figured it must be good! Anyone been?

Bruno – never got to try this place, but one of the local cab drivers told me it was yummy and worth giving a shot!

Buca di Bacco  – went here for lunch and it was decent. It’s one of the spots on the beach…idk, we were desperate and starving so that’s sort of all I have to say about that place! ha!

And that’s all I’ve got for y’all!! Unless you have any specific questions?! Please do let me know!

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Before we begin, listen to the tunes of Dean Martins ”That’s Amore”

Cascading down towards the sea shore with houses seemingly stacked over across the hill is what this small yet captivating village of Positano looks like. Located in the southern coast of Italy, this romantic town is absolutely surreal with steep narrow roads, colourful houses, classic Italian infrastructure and a sunset drawn straight from the heart of paradise. A major attraction to the affluent, the town in all its rustic glory is a treat for travellers who fancy quaint and aesthetic features with some soul-searching endeavours.

Positano faces the sea and waves hello to the majestic sun with matching elements lining up the curvy interiors of the town. The island may be small but the impression it leaves behind on a tourist is certainly not. An ideal spring vacation spot, I say, every traveller needs to foray into this coastal village and explore the enclave Italian authenticity.

It’s almost impossible to fall in love with Positano. It’s only after I had left the town that I realized what a dream I was living. Here is everything you need to know about this Italian paradise.

What to expect: Love at first sight! Imagine staring at two vertical cliffs, both stacked up with cute pastel coloured houses all the way to the top, beautiful boutique hotels, luscious greens and bright bougainvilleas wrapping up the path, tourists galloping away on these slopes slurping a gelato and some local coffee, stores selling linen outfits, beach wear and luxe fashion, artisan sandal shops lined along the way down, art galleries brimming with talent and a buzzing pebbled beach right in the middle of these cliffs decked with retro striped Italian umbrellas. Oh darling, this town is straight out of Pinterest!

What to not expect: Luxury brands, high end shopping, crazy nightlife, Starbucks, hotel chains.

Where to stay? Choosing a hotel in Positano can be tricky. While a good view is essential you also have to remember the higher you go, the more walking you have to do. Positano is built on two vertical cliffs with a beach and port right in the middle (imagine two triangles with a beach in the center). All the hotels, shops, boutiques and restaurants are spread across the winding roads of these hills. So when you’re looking for hotels make sure to check the distance from the main beach Spiaggia Grande unless you want to relax in the hotel itself.

If you’re choosing something right on the top be prepared to climb a lot of stairs and do a lot of walking daily. I would recommend something right in the middle or closer to the beach. Also I happened to noticed, not sure if it is completely true but the left cliff (the one near the church) has a lot more steps as compared to the other one (the one with La Sirenuse). The right cliff is easier to climb as there are just winding roads and no steps at all.

Since we had booked our trip last minute we didn’t have too many options and found this really tiny BnB right on the beach called La Caravella Positano (We stayed in the regular room but their one bedroom apartment looked quite nice). It wasn’t luxurious but the location was fantastic. There are tons of hotel options if you book in advance, from luxury to budget rentals and cute BnBs they have it all. I would recommend checking out Villa Rosa, Poseidon Positano (they offer a Beetle and Vespa to all the guests), the famous La Sirenuse (luxurious and expensive) or Villa Fiorentino.

La Caravella Positano

Things to do:

1. Positano Beach: A trip to Positano is definitely incomplete without laying on the pebbled beaches and tanning under the classic stripy umbrellas. With a perfect Italian set up and emerald waters hitting the shore this is an ideal swim and socializing spot. Basic in size but never boring, the beach is always bustling with tourists and is a must-visit when in Positano. You can also hire boats and kayaks to spend the day well. The main beach of Spiaggia Grande is also connected to a tiny port from where all the tourist boats operate. If you find this a bit crowded head to the Fornillo beach, it’s where the locals hang out.

2. Walk and explore Positano: The best way to get fascinated is to just explore the town by foot. Just walk around, stop at fancy local boutiques, sip coffee at quaint cafes, visit art galleries, soak in the beauty of the place and just gaze from the various view points. Also make sure to click tons of pictures because this is nothing like you’ve ever seen before.

3. Visit the Santa Maria Church: Located right in the centre of the buzzing market, this church is simply beautiful. Soft detailed infrastructure, an air of poise and calm, the cathedral is a must visit.

4. Shop: Italy is buzzing with shoppers and if you’re in Positano, apart from colourful detailed glassware, handicrafts and beach ensembles, you have to splurge on its native linen clothing, art pieces, handmade leather sandals, lemon soap and lemon candy. There are tons of beautiful local stores that you need to explore. Most of the boutiques are right in the center of the two hills, just make sure explore the by lanes. I picked up some beautiful hats and beach wear. Do check out the store called Antica Sartoria, it’s steep but amazing.

5. Hike: One of the most interesting things to do is the hike Santeiro Degli Di (the Path of the Gods). Not only do you get to see the most pristine views along the Amalfi Coast but it is also the best way to start your morning when in Positano. There are some restaurants tucked away in Nocello along the way but try and pack a good Panini and lots of water for the hike because it can take anything between 3 to 5 hours.

6. Spend the day at Da Adolfo: This place is 15 mins outside the city by boat and they do have a free shuttle provided you make a reservation. You have to wait at the port for a boat which has a red fish sign and it comes every 30 mins from 10am to 12.30pm. You can go and relax there, sip on a cocktail, sleep on the sun bed and enjoy some good seafood.

7. Try the coolest Pizza experience: Here you can make a pizza from scratch and sit and dine with the locals- www.positanopizzaexperience.com

8. Ride a Vespa/ A vintage Italian car: You can rent one of those cool Italian scooters or vintage cars and ride all around the coast.

9. Explore other towns: You can ride a vespa or cab it to Praiano, a cute little town close to Positano. Alternatively you can also take a day trip to Amalfi, Ravello or Capri.

10. Relax: Master the art of doing nothing, soak in all the Positano views. You’re living a dream. You can also take a pool package at Hotel Poseidon and spend the day there.

Spiaggia Grande

Santa Maria Church

Restaurants Recommendations: Classic Italian cuisine is what one expects on a trip to the deeply culture rooted country. However, what you get at the resort town is so much more than just the authenticity. There’s a flavour that comes not just from the herbs but also the hearty feeling the food is made with. Wholesome pizzas, delightful wine, slurpy pasta and fresh seafood is what you can mainly find on this island along with some really rich creamy gelato.

Unlike the typical Italian dishes served up in the north of the country expect tons of fresh seafood and locally grown vegetables here. You have to try the Risotto alla Pescatora (Seafood Risotto) and Parmigiana Melanzane (Eggplant Parmesan). Here are some of my favourite spots on the island but remember to make reservations everywhere before going:

  Breakfast & Lunch: -Chez Black: One of the most crowded restaurants by the beach. I loved their heart shaped pizzas -Casa e Bottega: Highly recommend this for breakfast and lunch. This contemporary cafe is very close to the shopping area. -Collina Bakery: Amazing pastries, donuts and coffee. Make sure to try their Nutella Croissant -Da Adolfo beach club: They have a shuttle boat to pick you but make prior reservations, its always full for lunch. -Vini e Panini: Great Paninis -Il Tridente in Hotel Poseidon

Dinner: -Ristorante Max: One of my favourite spots for dinner. I absolutely loved their pastas. Make sure to book a table outdoor. – Da Vincenzo: One of the best on the island. Great romantic spot for a local meal. Do try the eggplant parmigiana – Hotel Poseidon has some great dining options too. – Capricci: Great pizzas – La Tagliatta: They don’t have a set menu, they prepare meals based on their mood and pick fresh ingredients from their garden. Make sure to reserve a spot in advance. It’s a family run restaurant -Next 2: Love the chic setting and the outdoor veranda -Rada Restaurant: Love the vibe and the view Heard a lot about Il Capitano (amazing view) and Ristorante Bruno but didn’t get a chance to try it.

Drinks: – Francos Bar: Amazing place for a sundown drink. Arrive at 5pm so you can grab the best seat. Also they just serve drinks, no food. – Fly Lounge Bar: One of my favourite spots for drinks and sushi. The place has a fun vibe and a great view. – Champagne Bar at La Sirenuse: Upscale, fancy and a great set up – Hotel Poseidon Poolside Bar – Music on the rocks

Left: Hotel Poseidon; Right: Fly Lounge Bar

Left: Ristorante Max; Right: Chez Black

How to reach Positano: There are two ways to reach Positano. You can either hit the road from Naples (1 hour 20 mins), Sorrento (40 mins and sit on the right side for the best view) or Salerno (1 hour 40 mins and sit on the left side for the best view). Alternatively if you’re travelling from Capri to Positano you can opt for a ferry (from Capri it takes 30 min and Salerno 40 mins). We came by boat from Capri, we had actually hired that boat to sail and explore the grottos. After sailing for 6 hours the skipper dropped us to Positano in his boat, the price of which was included in our sailing fee. It’s something I would highly recommend! Check the ferry schedule here: https://www.positano.com/en/ferry-schedule

Closest Airport: Naples

What to pack: Positano is right out of an Italian movie- vintage, colourful, dreamy and beautiful, so make sure to dress the part. Unlike Capri, this town is a bit more casual but has a fun beachy vibe. So for the day pack lots of dresses in bright colours, printed and plain shorts, tank tops, off shoulder and ruffle blouses, polka dots and nautical stripes and all things that look Italian. Clothes in white, beige, tan, salmon pinks and bright yellows should be a must (avoid all things black). For the evenings pack long flowy gowns, romantic dresses and pearls.

Since there are a lot of steps make sure to carry comfortable walking shoes and non slippery flip flops. For the beach pack tons of swimsuits and bikinis preferably the ones with ruffles, dots, stripes and in bright shades. For accessorizing, hats of all sizes are a must as the sun is quite harsh and so are sunglasses. Pack tons of headbands and scarves along with delicate gold jewellery which can be stacked up, pearls and metallic hoops as well. Also, a straw beach bag is essential! If you plan to trek then carry ideal clothes, shoes and a backpack.

When to visit: While the months of June to August are the best in terms of weather be prepared for sky rocketing hotel prices and tons of tourist. I visited Positano in the second week of June and needless to say, I loved it. Luckily it wasn’t overcrowded, the days were little warm, the water was quite cold but could easily jump in and the nights were quite pleasant. If you plan to travel in this season then I would recommend booking in advance. Between November to February, the island is quite boring and most of the places will be shut down due to winter. Spring (April, May) and Autumn (September) could be alternate months if you want to avoid the summer, the crowds and are looking for cheaper prices. But also remember July and August can get very hot, so I would recommend June.

Don’t leave without: – Chilling at the famous Positano beach and relaxing under the stripy umbrellas. – Dining at Max and Casa e Botega – Visiting Da Adolfo – Watching a beautiful sunset from the top (Francos is great for a sundown). – Riding a vespa along the coast

Things to know: -The food here is very different from the Italian food we try in our countries; it is way more authentic in the South of Italy. So be open to trying and adjust. – The entire Amalfi coast is a bit steep, be prepared – This town could be a bit difficult with small kids as there are a lot of steps and the strollers can’t be pushed, so if you’re coming with a child stay closer to the beach. – There is a lot of walking and stair climbing involved, so carry comfortable sneakers and slippers.

How many nights to spend in Positano? I would recommend spending a minimum of three nights to enjoy Positano. If you plan to see Amalfi, Praiano and Ravello then maybe an extra night for that.

Other Islands: After exploring Positano, make sure you check out the nearby towns of Amalfi, Ravello, Salerno and Sorrento. To the south of Naples, lie the three most beautiful islands of Capri, Procida and Ischia. You can spend atleast 3 nights in Capri , a night or two Ischia/Procida. After which you can head to the coastal gems- Sorrento and Amalfi. If you plan to stay in Amalfi then try and do a day trip to the famous Ravello.

My South of Italy Itinerary:

Day 1: Naples-> Capri (Read the Capri Travel Guide ) Land in Rome and take a train to Naples followed by a ferry to Capri. Check in, explore the town and head for dinner.

Day 2: Explore Capri + Anacapri Explore Capri by foot + Have a local meal + Take a cab and head to Anacapri + Take the chairlift to Mount Solaro + Explore Anacapri + Head back to Capri and dine at Da Paulina (lemon trees)

Day 3: Capri Shopping + Beach Start the morning by shopping on the famous Capri streets + Head to La Fontelina + Spend the day by the sea and eat a great lunch + Sip an evening cocktail at Piazza Umberto

Day 4: Blue Grotto + Positano Hire a private boat and sail all day + Visit the Blue Grotto + Swim in the sea + Pass through the Faraglioni+ Go to the other grottos too + Around evening get dropped off at Positano + check in to the hotel + Go for a sundown drink and then dinner.

Day 5: Explore Positano + Beach + Shop Spend the day on the beach + shop around the local boutiques + explore both the vertical cliffs by foot + Head for a sundown and then dinner + Post dinner walk around the beach, it’s magical

Day 6: Hike + Positano Beach Club Head for an early morning hike to the Path of Gods + Spend the day at Da Adolfo beach club + come back to the centre and walk around + Coffee or sunset drinks + Dinner

Day 7: Take a boat to Amalfi + Check in + Walk around the centre + Chill on the beach + Head for a romantic meal

Day 8: Hire a Vespa and ride along the Amalfi Coast + Head to Ravello + Explore the centre, eat lunch and spend the day there + Come back to Amalfi before the sun sets + Romantic dinner + Walk around the cathedral and centre.

Day 9: Take a cab to Naples and then a train to Rome.

Alternatively, if you have time on hand then you can head to Sorrento and spend two nights there. I would recommend you to skip staying in Amalfi town and instead spend the last two nights in Sorrento because Amalfi is very small and can be explored in a day trip.

Language Spoken: While most of the locals speak Italian, English is also widely spoken considering the number of tourists that come into Capri

Currency: Euro Check the current rate on www.xe.com

The small yet stunning town lured me in with its hillside amenities, further lifting my senses with its vintage beaches and graceful natural beauty. The old-fashioned stairways and narrow roads flanked by lush bushes and florals simply add to the towns charm. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in a dream-like setting, then this place is for you! At first you might not realize how stunning the town is but only once you’ve left and you look back at your pictures, you realize you were living an Italian dream. Positano grows over you..

Capri Travel Guide – Click

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Thanks for guiding, Surely i will go through your points.

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• July 23, 2022
• Italy , Travel

Positano Travel Guide

Whatever you do, don’t miss Positano while you’re in Italy. It’s magical and there’s truly nothing like it! It was one of our favorite places that we’ve ever been to and we wish we could’ve stayed longer. The food is delicious, the beaches/beach clubs are incredible, and we can’t wait to go back. It has the perfect mix of beauty, romance, relaxation, and fun. This Positano travel guide has you covered on it all!

Where to Stay

Il San Pietro – The most amazing hotel in Positano, hands down. The staff was incredible, the views were absolutely stunning, and there was just the most special and magical vibe as soon as you step foot on the property. We also loved that it was more removed from other hotels that are packed in the main town area – it was still close enough to get over quickly. It was by far the best hotel we’ve ever stayed at! It felt like heaven. Check out the view from our room’s patio !

Other notable hotels: Villa Treville, Hotel Poseidon, Marincanto, La Sirenuse, and Hotel Eden Roc

Where to Eat

Da Adolfo – As the Italians told us, everyone has to go to Da Adolfo once in their lives. Iconic, casual, and really fun spot that has a very casual vibe. As soon as you step foot on the rocks it feels like a party. First things first, order a pitcher of their white wine with peaches to compliment the meal. You can’t go wrong with any of their fresh seafood and you must GET THE PESTO! It’s completely different from the more common genovese pesto. This is pesto alla friggitelli made with Italian sweet peppers. It was the most unique flavor and I honestly could have drank it. Delicious in the pasta dish but also to dip bread into. Don’t leave without dessert – they offer a variety of homemade cakes. They offer a complimentary water taxi to get to and from the restaurant located right on the shore.

La Tre Sorelle – Their lobster pasta was SO good! We loved the staff and the food was phenomenal. It’s right in the middle of all the action at the beach in Positano. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed!

Chez Black – Iconic Hot spot located right off the main beach in Positano. Known for their seafood, heart shaped pizza, and celebrity clientele. Their spaghetti alla Nerano was especially delicious (though, still not at the same level as Lo Scoglio)! We went for lunch and thought it would be a really fun spot for dinner as well. 

Positano Home Cooking – This isn’t a restaurant but it might as well be because the food was outstanding! It’s actually a cooking class and DEFINITELY worth doing if you have a chance. It starts at 6pm and goes until 9 or 10pm. You’ll have the chance to eat/drink all kinds of food and wine (and I mean a lot…) and everything is extremely high quality. Not only were we blown away by the food and wine, but we also had the best time – it was so much fun and even better with a group of friends/family!

La Taverna Del Leone – After not going in 2022, we heard a lot about this restaurant from locals and we’re so glad that we finally had the chance to try it out for ourselves! The food was fantastic and their semifreddo al torrone di mandorle is one of the best desserts we’ve EVER had. The pastry chef has been making it for the past 65+ years!

Zass – Upscale fine dining with a spectacular view at Il San Pietro. Be sure to request a table outside on the terrace. The food was great, the staff was so kind, and we had a great experience. We ordered fish, pizza, and pasta. 

Carlino Restaurant – Nice casual spot for lunch right next to the beach club of our favorite hotel (Il San Pietro). 

La Tagliata – This is a farm-to-table, family style restaurant with a set menu priced at 50 euros per person. We’ve never had more food in one sitting – this included a bottle of wine, one of the best bruschettas we’ve ever had, marinated vegetables, salad, greens, cured meats & cheeses, 4 types of pasta, fries, a variety of meats, dessert assortment and of course, limoncello). If you come here, make sure to come hungry! It’s a fun atmosphere with an incredible view. Full disclosure, this restaurant is very touristy.

Ristorante Max – Well known for their delicious seafood (we both ordered the lobster pasta), great bread, and extensive wine list. It’s also very centrally located.

Da Vincenzo – Has a beautiful terrace view overlooking the Positano coastline. The atmosphere is romantic and a great spot for dinner.

La Sponda –  Well known upscale restaurant located at Le Sirenuse. Beautiful ambiance and great view – their wine list was also amazing. 

Here are a few restaurants that we heard are great but we didn’t get a chance to go to: Da Ferdinando , Donna Rosa , Il Ritrovo , Meastro (for the view), Buca di Bacco , and Bar Bruno

Rooftop Bars

Franco’s Bar – Lively bar with a view

Terrace Bar at Il San Pietro – Beautiful view of Positano with a romantic atmosphere

Music On the Rocks

Arienzo Beach Club – Less crowded than the main beach and just as beautiful! Highly recommend. 

Fornillo Beach – Another less crowded beach nearby.

Spiaggia Grande – This is the main beach in Positano – the one that you’ve probably seen featured in those iconic blue umbrella photos. The only downside is that it’s very crowded during peak season so if you’re going for a picture, be sure to get there very early.

Beach Club at Il San Pietro – SO relaxing and fun – it has an incredible view of Positano. It’s also never too crowded because of their relatively limited seating. Totally worth checking out.

Fiordo di Furore – Very small beach that locals go to. It has a beautiful bridge with an arch above the water.

Walk through Town and Window Shop – Tons of cute little stores!

Boat Tour around the Amalfi Coast – We used Princess Positano and booked through our hotel. 

3-Day Itinerary

• Check into Hotel
• Lunch at La Tre Sorelle
• Walk around Positano town and window shop
• Aperitivo at Franco’s Bar
• Dinner at Chez Black
• Drinks at Music On the Rocks
• Breakfast at hotel or local café
• Relax at Fornillo Beach or Spiaggia Grande
• Lunch at Ristorante Da Adolfo (Da Adolfo will pick you up via water taxi – set this up ahead of time through your hotel)
• Arienzo Beach Club
• Aperitivo at the Terrace Bar at Il San Pietro
• Dinner at Da Vincenzo
• Beach Club at Il San Pietro
• Boat tour of Amalfi Coast and lunch at Lo Scoglio da Tommaso
• Dinner at Positano Home Cooking

Notes & Tips

• There is no train to Positano and the roads along the Amalfi Coast are well known to be windy.
• One transportation option is to drive into Positano but if you do, I recommend hiring a driver take you rather than driving yourself (unless you’re VERY confident in your driving abilities in Italy).
• Another transportation option is taking a bus from Naples or Sorrento. This is significantly cheaper but also more time consuming and less convenient. You can also take a ferry into town but I don’t recommend either of these options unless you have no other choice.

If you liked this Positano travel guide & itinerary and are interested in checking out more about Italy, we have several more guides  here !

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Positano.com: Your Complete Guide

Positano is the most famous and iconic village on the Amalfi Coast , the spectacular strip of coastline with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea to one side and the peaks of the Lattari Mountains to the other. The coastline stretches for 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Naples (Napoli) and north of Salerno in the southern Italian region of Campania. The entire Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , with highlights including Positano as well as the equally picturesque towns of Amalfi and Ravello .

Take a dip in the crystalline waters off the coast, admire the dramatic cliffs by sea on a mini-cruise, relax over a romantic dinner overlooking the water, and stroll along the narrow, twisting lanes under a lush canopy of wisteria and lemon trees. These are the unique charms that make Positano one of the top destinations in all of Italy for those who want to sample the country’s timeless "la dolce vita" atmosphere.

Where is Positano?

Positano is the first town you reach on the Amalfi Coast when arriving from Naples , and it's about a 20-minute drive from the Sorrentine Peninsula and about 30 minutes from Capri by ferry. After Positano, the next towns are Praiano , Conca de' Marini , Amalfi , and the other villages along the coast.

You can reach Positano by bus from Sorrento or Amalfi (there are two stops: "La Sponda" and "Chiesa Nuova"). There are also ferries in the summer from Sorrento and Capri.

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

Where should I stay on the Amalfi Coast?

Positano is perfect for couples, with its romantic atmosphere and leisurely days on the beaches: Fornillo , Arienzo , Laurito , or Spiaggia Grande (also called Marina Grande). There are great cafés and restaurants and you can also take a boat tour to admire the Li Galli Islets , Capri , and the surrounding coastline. Keep in mind that Positano is a vertical town , with a number of steep staircases that are not accessible for those with limited mobility or small children.

Amalfi is flatter than Positano and set in the middle of the coastline. There is just one small beach, but there is a convenient boat service that will take you to a number of other nearby beaches that are only accessible by sea.

Ravello is set on the clifftop above the coastline and is famous for its stunning views from the terraces of its historic villas. The town is also home to a number of art and music festivals.

Maiori and Minori are better choices for families, as they are flat and have an easily-accessible beach.

Where to Choose a Hotel

What is there to see and how should I get around?

Positano is a small village and you can see its sights easily in half a day. More than just a place to visit, Positano is more an experience. Stroll along Via Pasitea to admire the shops selling "pezze di Positano" (local resort wear in linen and silk) or relax on one of the terraces to admire the views over the colorful houses tumbling down the cliffside.

One of the most famous landmarks in Positano is the colorful majolica cupola of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta , which houses the Byzantine Madonna Nera that is the object of much devotion among locals. This historic icon was found on the beach after a violent storm and on that site, the church was built. You can also visit the ancient Roman domus next to the church, the recently excavated ruins of a seaside villa with frescos similar to those found in Pompeii. The Roman Archaeological Museum where the villa is located is open all year round for guided visits.

Be sure to take in the Saracen towers , ancient watchtowers that were built on strategic spots along the coast and were used to protect the locals from pirates. Positano is home to three of these: Torre Trasita , Torre di Sponda , and Torre di Fornillo .

From Positano, head up to Montepertuso and the hamlet of Nocelle to walk along the Path of the Gods to Agerola .

The easiest way to get from Positano to nearby towns and Capri is with the ferries and boats that set off from the small pier in Positano. Otherwise, there are Sita buses . We do not suggest driving due to the heavy traffic and limited parking. For couples, the most convenient way to get around is by scooter.

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A quick guide to positano — positano tips & what to do in positano.

Positano is definitely my most favorite city in Italy. It is not merely an attractive destination, but also emotionally involved. I was “adopted” into an Italian family here. Almost every year I go to Positano several times. Gradually, the love of pure beauty turned into an attachment to this lovely town where home to my second home. I write this article with the hope that you will fall in love with Positano as I do. So, is Positano worth visiting and what to do in Positano (Positano what to do)? Let’s check out our Positano blog with some Positano tips as well as things to do in Positano to help you planning a perfect trip to visit one of the most beautiful villages on the legendary Amalfi Coast of Italy!

• Positano travel blog — The fullest Positano travel guide for first-timers
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Positano blog: How to get to Positano ?

Getting to Positano is not difficult, it’s just a little bit roundabout. Due to Positano becoming a town located on cliffs, facing the sea, there are no direct trains, only buses and boats.

The easiest way to reach Positano is from Naples. I often travel on this route most because I lived a year in Naples. Later, even if I traveling around, when I want to go to Positano , I still go to Naples first and then depart from here. However, there are many different ways to get to Positano.

The cheapest way is to catch Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento. Circumvesuviana is a regional metro, from Naples to suburban towns. Circumvesuviana platform is downstairs in Naples’ main railway station. Buy this ticket usually at the ticket counter right in front of the Circumvesuviana ticket gate (or at a tabacchi – a tob@cco shop. Ticket vending machines don’t sell this type of ticket, they only sell train tickets). This ticket costs about 3.60 euros.

Then, after arriving in Sorrento, you look to the left/right, finding the ticket office, then buy a bus ticket from Sorrento to Positano, at the tabacchi shop. Then exit the train station, go down the stairs, right across the street you will see a bus of SITA. This company operates passenger buses on the route: Sorrento – Amalfi – Positano. You can check the timetable on this page . Usually from around 8pm onwards, the bus runs very irregularly, sometimes it doesn’t even run. Saturdays and Sundays are even more unusual. The ticket for this route is quite cheap, under 5 euros.

If you don’t like the bus, you can take the boat (ferry) from Sorrento to Positano . This way is more expensive, ranging from 18, 19 euros/one-way. With each piece of luggage you will pay extra fee of 2 euros. But if you want to try the “water bus”, it is highly recommended, the Mediterranean Sea is ravishingly beautiful. There are 3 ferry lines sailing from Sorrento to Positano, namely NLG, Alilauro, Seremar. Of these three firms, only Alilauro operating 3 trips per day. Please refer to the schedule here . The remaining two firms are weekly: NLG with 7 trips per week; Seremar wit 14 trips per week.

You also do not need to book tickets in advance, just go there and directly to buy tickets. It’s like a “passenger car” running on the sea.

There is no direct boat/ferry from Naples to Positano. There may be bus services running from Naples to Positano. But the way I shared above is the most classic way. My friend is Italian and only goes this way.

Positano blog: Where to stay?

Particularly in Positano, I recommend Casa Clemy ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ), if you want stay on a budget. This hostel is located in a location with a perfect view to see the whole beautiful Positano, good service and friendly host (the host is my friend). So I can guarantee 100% satisfaction for you. I myself have stayed in this apartment many times. Everything is complete and wonderful.

Also if you want to stay in more luxurious hotels and resorts, you can refer to the hotels below

Le Sirenuse Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Il San Pietro di Positano ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Poseidon ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Some mid-range and budget hotels with good reviews in Positano you can refer to

Hotel Reginella ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Pensione Maria Luisa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Savoia ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Royal Prisco ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel La Bougainville ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Montemare ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Casa Albertina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Pupetto ( Booking.com ).

The room rates in Positano is quite high compared to the common room rates in Italy, especially with the hotels with beautiful views, near the main beach. You can refer to the room on Booking.com , Agoda.com .

Positano tips: Some experiences and tips you should know before visiting Positano

• You’ll have to do a lot of walking, and a lot of climbing. The small towns on the Amalfi coast are famous for their stone steps and mountain paths. Remember to bring a comfortable shoe.
• Positano’s tourist season lasts from July to September. In winter it is extremely cold. I’ve been in Positano almost every month of the year. I think June and October are the most beautiful, because of less tourists, but it is already sunny. June is a bit cold, suitable for hanging out. In October, you can still swim. And August is especially crowded, please avoid.
• Positano is an expensive destination – especially accommodations of all kinds. Besides, this is not the ideal place to carry luggage around. If possible, I recommend you to visit Positano as a day tour from Naples. And if you want to play? With bulky luggage? There is a service to hire people to carry luggage.

Positano blog: What to do in Positano & things to do in Positano

Coming to this part becomes… difficult for me. Unlike other places I usually go alone to explore, in Positano I usually stay with my friend family. They took me to places that they said were “true Italian”, not to popular places. Because Italy is too crowded with tourists, and the dreamlike Positano cannot escape the billowing lines of visitors from all over the world. I will share with you some tourist-friendly activities for you to discover Positano.

Stroll around the beautiful streets of Positano

I found the best things to do in Positano is… just walking, looking at the street and seeing the houses, shops, people pass by. No need to say far away, just looking at the photos you can imagine how beautiful Positano is. It’s basically this: you just get lost. The more you lost, the better you experience!

Instead of swimming at the main beach, go to Fornillo

The main beach, I advise you to just go down to play, not to swim. That huge number of visitors will make you disillusioned. Although there is a super nice view of the whole village on the cliff, but if you see the scene of thousands of people, you will get tired. Going down to the main beach is the most beautiful at night, when the whole village lights up, and almost tourists will looking for places to hang out at night. At this point, it is quiet and comfortable.

Instead, go down to Fornillo beach, a smaller and more hidden pebble beach with a view overlooking the watchtower. This beach is much more deserted and clear. If the Positanos themselves want to bathe, they will go to this beach, or take a boat to the surrounding islands, but never go down to the main beach.

Try everything from… lemon

Positano is famous for its lemon tree, so anything made with its lemons will be delicious. Try the lemon sorbet (granità), limoncello, etc., all in all.

Shop for enamels

Positano and Amalfi are also famous for their skills in hand-painted porcelain enamels. My friend’s family owns an enamelware factory. I highly recommend you to check it out. This is not only a traditional profession, but also an expression of love for this small but soul-rich land. The most beautiful enamel maker is Ceramics Casola. It’s all hand drawn.

It’s a pity that I can only share it here, because most of my experiences are with my friend family. However, Positano is a small town with many interesting activities, such as renting boats, kayaking, hiking, climbing mountains, etc. You should ask more locals about these interesting activities. And if you go to Casa Clemy , I can guarantee you’ll get the best local advice possible.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Positano you can refer to

• Positano and Amalfi Coast Day Tour
• Amalfi Coast and Positano Guided Day Trip from Rome
• Guided Day Tour of Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi (Naples Departure)
• Guided Day Tour of Amalfi (Naples Departure)
• Guided Day Tour of Capri Island (Naples Departure)
• Pompeii, Positano, and Amalfi Coast Full Day Tour from Rome
• Positano and Amalfi Coast Guided Walking Tour from Naples
• Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello Guided Day Tour
• From Naples: Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi Full-Day Tour
• Amalfi Coast: Boat and Snorkeling Tour in Small Group
• Naples: Boat Tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
• From Naples or Sorrento: Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
• From Rome: Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip
• From Naples: Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
• Salerno: 7-Hour Amalfi Coast Small Group Boat Tour
• From Naples: Group Day Tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
• Sorrento: Full-Day Boat Tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
• From Rome: Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Group Day Trip
• Pompeii and Vesuvius Full-Day Tour from Amalfi Coast
• From Rome: Amalfi Coast & Pompeii Full-Day Small Group Tour
• From Naples: Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
• From Sorrento: Amalfi Coast Scenic Full-Day Drive Tour
• From the Amalfi Coast: Capri Full-Day Trip by Boat
• Naples: Small-Group Positano and Amalfi Boat Tour
• Naples Airport to Sorrento and Amalfi Coast Shared Transfer

Are you looking for more top things to do in Positano: Let’s check it out here . And if you are looking for another coastline paradise destination in Italy let’s check it out: Cinque Terre travel blog — The fullest Cinque Terre travel guide for a great trip on a budget for the first-timers . Check out more Italy travel guide series to find inspiration for upcoming trips.

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Positano Italy Amalfi Coast Guide

Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by asoulwindow

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Say the word Positano and colourful houses tumbling down the cliffs springs up in one’s mind. Located in the heart of Amalfi Coast in Italy, this place with its winding roads, sparkling seas and houses perched on cliffs is a Traveler’s Paradise!

Get lost in this charming vertical town, as you uncover its beauty, one layer at a time. The best part is that in order to travel in Positano, you do not need to navigate much through the traffic on road. Instead explore Positano intimately through the winding steps, which are often steep.

What is the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful stretch of mountainous coastal road that stretches from Naples to the Isle of Capri. With scent of lemons lingering in the air to pink Bougainville’s adorning every corner of the streets to intricate artistic ceramic pottery being sold in local shops, Amalfi is a treat to one’s eyes.

Amalfi is the land where the sun kisses the sea and white sand beaches adorn its shores. Is Positano Italy on the Amalfi Coast? Yes, in fact Positano is the first town you will come across in Amalfi Coast, if you are coming from the western side.

Fun Fact: Positano is one of the major tourist attraction points in Italy. The ‘who is who’ of the world have their vacation homes here. Yes, you get the picture! Here are more such interesting facts about Italy .

Where is Positano?

So, where is Positano Italy located? Well Positano is located in one of the most beautiful southern part of Italy. Positano is a small village which is located near major places such as Amalfi Coast, Naples, Sorrento etc.

Amalfi comprises of 13 picturesque towns on the coastline. Each town is so unique that one will be spoilt for choices on deciding where to stay.  While planning our Italy trip (Read the itinerary here ), we knew we had to include Amalfi coast in our itinerary. With many options on hand, the decision was a hard one.

What region is Positano Italy in?

The gorgeous beach town of Positano lies in the Campania region of South Italy. Positano Village lies within the Amalfi Coast in Province of Salerno. Thanks to its strategic location, there are so many other exciting destinations which you can add in your Southern Italy itinerary .

Instagram Spots in Positano Italy

The choice was between choosing the most beautiful town or choosing the town where there is ease of transportation. We finally decided to go with Positano as we had seen multiple images on social media and it was as if Positano was calling out our name.

Positano is probably the most instagrammed town on Amalfi coast. If you are a Bollywood movie buff then you would have heard the song “ Ghungroo toot gaye ” starring Hrithik Roshan. Yes, the song was shot in this beautiful paradise. Some other films which feature Positano are Under The Tuscan Sun, Nine, Kath and Kimderella, Only You etc.

Positano is home to long winding roads with cute little cafes offering mesmerizing views of the sea. It’s also a very popular destination for romantic getaways .

History of Positano

The beauty of Positano belies its turbulent past. It survived not only the multiple attacks by the Ottoman pirates but also natural disasters such as a Tsunami in the year 1343 C.E. when much of the town was destroyed.

That said, during the 15 th to 17 th century C.E., Positano emerged as a major trading port and hub. This too saw its downfall over the years though and the status of Positano was reduced to nothing but just a fishing village. This was when most of residents had migrated to United States of America . Positano is again prospering, thanks to the tourism in Positano.

How old is Positano Italy

Prehistoric sites from the Upper Palaeolithic era have also been found at Positano. It was inhabited by the hunters gatherers.

What is Positano Italy known for?

Why visit Positano Italy? Well, Positano is famous for its picture postcard perfect beaches, great food, winding roads and a laidback vibe. That said, it can be pretty crowded during the peak season. Positano is also popular amongst celebrities and Instagram influencers, Youtubers and Travel Bloggers like myself for the immense photo opportunities it provides.

This vertical village is a pleasure to discover on foot. All these make Positano a perfect holiday destination in Europe and Italy. These are some of the best reasons why you should go to Positano Italy. Positano is also known for its ruins from the Roman Empire. These are some of the top reasons why you should go to Positano. These quotes on Italy will make you want to pack your bags and fly to Italy.

Things to do in Positano

• Relax by the beach : The first thing one does upon reaching this picturesque town is hitting the beach. Let’s face it, sun, sand, blue water, colour popped houses, what not to like! Get that perfect tan and sip a lemon sorbet. You can consider renting out a sunbed for the day and just sit and watch the waves crashing on the shore. It is one of the best things to do in Positano. You can also hang out at one of the beach clubs. For one chair you may have to pay upto €25 . Beaches are number one reason of why you should go to Positano Italy.
• Shopping: Who doesn’t like shopping right ? Positano has some of the most fashionable collections in varied colours. It is famous for its linen clothing decorated with lace.

Sapori e Profumi di Positano

Shop here for handmade soaps, perfumed candles, body creams etc. Via dei Mulini, 6.

I Sapori di Positano – This is the best shop to buy the lemon products made in Positano and Amalfi coast. You name it, they will have it!

Maria Lampo – For handcrafted clothes, head to Maria Lampo for genuine Moda Positano.

Note: The clothes are priced on an expensive side. One can opt for souvenirs such as fridge magnets or ceramics. Since lemon is a local product, you will find everything related to lemon such as lemon soap, lemon candy, lemon scented perfume etc.

• Hire a Scooty : This is one of the best ways to explore the Amalfi coast. Since the winding lanes are narrow, it’s better to hire a scooty instead of a car. There is nothing like zipping around the narrow lanes with wind blowing on your face.
• Ride the Sita Bus : If you wish to explore the coast in a more economical way then hop on a Sita bus and get off at the next town. For town hopping this is the best option.
• Opt for a ferry ride : One of the best ways to explore the other towns of Amalfi, such as Minori, Maiori, opt for the ferry ride. Though a bit more expensive than the other modes of transport, this is definitely one of the best ways to explore the other towns.
• Rent a Kayak : Kayaking is one of my favourite activities and we opted for a kayak ride in the evening. Nothing like beautiful sunset views with water splashing around you. No doubt, it is one of the best things to do in Positano Italy.
• Visit a lemon farm : This was on our to do list however due to paucity of time, we had to give this a skip. I have heard some amazing reviews and you must definitely check this out.
• Hike the Path of Gods : The Path of Gods is a trail of 4 miles offering beautiful views of the sea and coastal towns. The trek is of moderate difficulty and if you are not comfortable hiking on your own then you can hire a guide.  It is a must see places to visit in Positano. If treks are your thing then you will also like to check this trek in Cinque Terre from Monterosso to Vernaza here .
• Visit the Santa Maria Church : The beautiful church is right in the middle of the town and is open daily. It is one of the top things to see in Positano, the gorgeous coast town.
• Visit Capri : Go on a day tour to the isle of Capri and visit the Blue grotto. Located on the Tyrrhenian sea near Sorrento Peninsula, Capri is a must visit island. Located close to the Gulf of Naples, it is a popular resort town. Even in the Roman Era, Capri was popular. Some of the places to visit in and around Capri are Anacapri, Belvedere of Tragara, Nerano, Blue Grotto, Praiano, Sorrento, Ravello and the 2 harbours called Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Also visit the stunning 3 islets of Li Galli. Also known as Sirenuse, it is located near Positano.
• Roman Ruins: Also, keep your eyes peeled for the ancient ruins from Roman era, limestone crags and sweeping views of nearby towns. You can see many ancient ruins of the villas which belonged to the Romans. Most of these old ruins are located close to the Church dell’Assunta. I always loved to explore historical places when I travel. Some historians claim that the town was founded as early as the 9 th century. Also watch out for remains of the fortified walls, watch towers. These are some of the best places to see in Positano.
• Visit Pompeii: Enjoy a day trip to the historical Pompeii from Naples. You can also club a wine tour in this itinerary. We all know about the preserved city of Pompeii. It was devastated when Mount Vesuvius exploded in 79 C.E. Discover the ancient Roman history by walking through the ruins of Pompeii. It takes only one hour to arrive at Pompeii from Positano. One day tour or half day tour to Pompeii is possible, depending upon your budget.
• Click some memorable Pictures: If you love clicking pictures like me then you will absolutely love Positano. Every turn and corner offers amazing views of the coast which can be a great backdrop for your photos. No wonder, so many movies and music videos are shot here.
• Visit Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta

Easily identifiable, thanks to its colossal majolica tiled dome, you can see this visually stunning church from most places in Positano. Do visit the Church. Also check out the Byzantine icon of a black Madonna which dates back to 13 th century.

15. Museo Archeologico Romano Museum

Learn about the history of Positano Italy at the Museo Archeologico Romano. You can see precious specimens of some of the original architecture from the Roman era. The site of the museum was originally home to a very old Roman Villa. The facility of multi media display is also available.

Ticket price of Museo Archeologico Romano – EUR 15 per person. This includes 30 minutes tour with a guide.

Timings of Museo Archeologico Romano –

11 April to 31 October – 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

1 November to 10 April – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

16. Beaches of Positano – Known for its gorgeous beaches, Positano boasts of some of the best world class beaches. Soak in the Mediterranean sun, indulge in great food and drinks and do nothing but relax at the Positano beaches. Some of them are as below:

Spiaggia Grande – Popular with regular people and even celebrities, artists and even actors, Spiaggia Grande is one of the most beautiful and longest beaches in and around the Amalfi Coast. It is approximately 300 metres long.

Laurito Beach – This craggy beach is not very popular with tourists. It is a small beach which is frequented by the local people. Do check out Da Adolfo restaurant here.

Fornillo Beach – Located close to the Spiaggia Grande beach, the Fornillo beach is accessed from a picturesque coastal path which starts from the Spiaggia Grande beach. Ask around if you are unable to find the way. For those who love secluded and peaceful beaches, Fornillo Beach is the answer. Beach Chairs are cheaper here.

Arienzo Beach – Towards the East, you need to climb 300 steps to arrive at the Arienzo beach. The walk here is steep. You can arrive here via a shuttle boat from Positano as well. Though Arienzo is a small beach, most people love it because it allows longer time under the sun.

So, if sun bathing and tanning is your thing, head to Arienzo. You can choose between the beach club and free beach area, depending upon your budget and needs. You can get good sun in Arienzo as late as 6 p.m. unlike other beaches in Positano, where sun hides behind the mountains by afternoon.

Other beaches to visit in and around Positano Italy are Fiumicello, San Pietro, Remmese and La Porta.

17. Attend festival – If you can, the do time your visit to Positano Italy on 2 nd July . This is when the Church of the Madonna delle Grazie is abuzz with religious festivities. This is one of the best time to be in Amalfi Coast as it offers a deep immersive experience of the local lifestyle.

15 th August , which is also Independence Day of India, is celebrated with feasts and fun activities. The Landing of the Saracens is re enacted on this day. Watch out for another Italian festival called Ferragosto as well, as it falls around the same time.

18. Visit Nocelle: It is located on the pathway between Monti Lattari and Agerola. The main square of this tiny hamlet offers spectacular views of the Faragliono rocks and Capri Island. Located near Sentiero degli Dei, it is an offbeat place to visit in Positano and Amalfi Coast.

19. Go Hiking and Trekking – There are many hiking and trekking trails in and around Positano. Wear good shoes and carry water and snacks as you head out for hikes and walks.

20. Where to Eat Positano Italy

Positano is known to be the high-end town on Amalfi coast and the prices do run steep here. Having said that, it’s not impossible to find a restaurant that is pocket friendly. Here are some of the best places to eat in Positano. The food is one of the top reason why you must visit Positano.

I would recommend the following restaurants where we spent a good deal of time.

La Zagara : This was one of my most favourite and go to places in Positano. From pistachio filled croissants to aphrodisiac chocolate chilli pastries (Yes, you read that right), this restaurant has it all. We especially loved the “Delizia Al Limone” which is a lemon dessert. Bonus point, the restaurant is close to the beach and it was only 2 mins away from our hotel. You will find vegetarian and vegan options here. This is why you should visit Positano Italy.

Bruno: This restaurant had some of the most stunning views of Positano. Tables parked along the sidewalk offering infinite view of the sea. The food here was expensive but good. I didn’t appreciate the service much however the views made up for it.

Rada : You must dine al fresco in Rada as you enjoy your romantic date on the terrace of this charming restaurant. Perched on a cliff, you can soak in views of Positano and the sea from here. You must eat here when in Positano. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.

Collina bakery : They are very famous for their lemon sorbet, lip smacking pizza and Cannoli. If budget is a concern then you can save some money by opting for a take away and eating it by the beach or in your hotel.

Casa e Bottega : If you are watching your calories and is health conscious then Casa e Bottega is the perfect choice. Take your pick from their selection of healthy smoothies, assorted salads, fresh fruit juices, avocado toast etc. Casa e Bottega is a paradise for vegetarians and vegans as well.

Best Time to visit Positano

Without a doubt the best time to visit Positano would be summer however if being a part of a throng of tourists is not your cup of tea then I suggest you consider the non-touristy months. I visited the town in the month of September and the weather was just perfect, a little chilly at night however I could dip my legs in the sea without catching a cold. If you wish to go for a swim then chose the summer months for your tour.

Positano Weather

The weather of Positano is typically Mediterranean which means it is mostly mild throughout the year making Positano a pleasant year round destination. That surely makes it worth visiting anytime.

Winters – During winter, the minimum temperature hovers around 6 °C.

Summers – The days are long during summer. Expect sunny and warm weather.

How many days to spend in Positano?

I spent total 4 days in Positano. Infact, I loved it so much that I cancelled my stay in Rome by a day and added it to Positano. To do justice to this place, spend 4-5 days at least. Considering the fact that you will take time to reach this place, you will have to set aside half a day to shrug off the tiredness.

More so, if you wish to visit the Isle of Capri and see the famous Blue Grotto then that tour itself will take a day. You can also make day trips to many places. There are many Amalfi Coast Towns nearby.

What to see in Positano Italy in one day

One day trips can also be planned when you actually reach Positano Italy. However, the one day trip will not do justice to the beautiful views and places that Positano offers. So it is better to plan a longer vacation here. In one day, you will only be able to see some beaches and dine at few places.

Places to Stay in Positano

You will love the variety of Positano hotels. Positano has some of the most beautiful boutique hotels offering magnanimous views of the cliffs and the sea. If you are wondering where to stay Positano Italy, please see below suggestions:

La Tavolozza Residence – While choosing a hotel, we had a specific budget in mind and decided to go for a B&B named ” La Tavolozza Residence” managed by 3 wonderful ladies. The owners gave us a warm welcome and the rooms gave a stunning view of the town. Another reason for choosing this hotel was its proximity to the port as we arrived by ferry. The Sita bus stop was also a 5 min walk from the hotel. Win win! Choose from the wide choice of Positano hotels!

Le Sirenuse Positano – One of the most popular stay options in Positano, the much celebrated Le Sirenuse Positano is located just 200 meters away from the gorgeous beaches of Italian coastline. All the rooms here have a privat balcony. What’s more? It is also home to a Michelin star restaurant. Make sure you dine at the terrace which offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean sea. Spa, sauna, hammam are added bonus. Le Sirenuse Positano is only 40 kms away from the Amalfi coast. It is 16 kms away from Sorrento.

Villa Treville Positano – If you are looking for luxury, do stay at the Villa Treville Positano . You can enjoy the 5 star luxury by staying in of the tastefully done rooms of the Villa Treville Positano. Private beach and the luxurious Jacuzzi bath are cherry on the cake. Feel like a celebrity as you indulge in the world class amenities and treatment.

Free Wi-Fi is on the house as well. The suites and rooms of the Villa Treville Positano faces the Tyrrhenian Sea. It takes only 15 minutes of walk to arrive at Positano from the hotel. It is super expensive, but if you have deep pockets, then why not? Villa Treville Positano, after all is one of the most luxurious of Positano hotels.

How to Reach Positano

Being away from the hustle and bustle of major cities and giving you the much-needed break, Positano does not have an airport. You however need not worry as there are multiple other options to reach this beautiful town. You can travel from Rome to Amalfi Coast or better still Naples to Amalfi Coast.

The 2 most viable options are Sorrento and Salerno.

If you are coming from Salerno then you can either:

• Take the Sita bus that runs frequently along the Amalfi coast. Note, the bus being the most economical option is always packed and one that may not warrant you a guaranteed seat.
• There are private buses that run along the Amalfi coast too. Here you would be guaranteed a seat however the cost would be higher than that of the SITA bus.
• Hire a private taxi and make you way to Positano
• Opt for the ferry ride. Check the ferry timings in advance to avoid being stranded at the port for a long time. This is by far the fastest mode of transport and the views along the way are right out of a painting. The boat tours are very popular during the summer months. You can opt for private sunset cruise as well. It is more expensive of course.

If you are coming from Sorrento t hen :

If you are coming from Sorrento then chances are you are coming from Naples or Rome. In either case, take the circumvesuviana train to Sorrento. Upon reaching Sorrento, either hire a private taxi/ opt for Sita bus/ opt for a private bus.

What airport is near Positano Italy?

Napoli Capodichino airport or Naples International Airport (NAP) in Naples is the closest airport from both Amalfi coast and Positano.

Distances from Positano:

• The distance between Sorrento to Positano is only 16.7 kilometers and it takes around 30 minutes to cover the distance via SS163.
• The distance between Pompeii to Positano is only 35 kilometers and it takes around 1 hour to cover the distance via SS163 and SS145.
• The distance between Naples to Positano is only 57 kilometers and it takes around 1 hours 10 minutes to cover the distance via SS145 and A3
• The distance between Salerno to Positano is only 64 kilometers and it takes around 1 hours 19 minutes to cover the distance via SS145 and A3/E45.
• The distance between Rome to Positano is only 273 kilometers and it takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes to cover the distance via E45. Train between Rome and Positano takes less time. For just 20-30 Euro a day, you can rent a car as well. The high speed train costs just Euro 15.
• The distance between Vatican City to Positano is only 280 kilometers and it takes around 3 hours 35 minutes to cover the distance via E45.
• The distance between Sicily to Positano is only 712 kilometers and it takes around 8 hours 30 minutes to cover the distance via E45.
• The distance between Naples to Amalfi Coast is only 61 kilometers and it takes around 1 hour 10 minutes to cover the distance via A3.
• The distance between Rome to Amalfi Coast is only 277 kilometers and it takes around 3 hours 25 minutes to cover the distance via E45.

Positano Italy on Backpacking Budget

There are several ways by which you can cut your cost of Positano trip. You can opt for cheaper options and save a lot of money without compromising on the typical Positano experience. Below are some tips and tricks for the backpacking budget trip to Positano Italy.

Is Positano Italy Expensive

Compared to other places in Italy, Positano and Amalfi Coast is 2-3 times more expensive, thanks to its grand views, instagrammable spots and celebrity culture. In fact, most of the beaches are privately owned and they charge you a fee for even taking pictures. The public beaches are always crowded, so it is better idea to come early morning for better photo opportunities, for Instagram, of course! Despite all this, Positano is worth a visit!

How expensive is Positano Italy?

Well, to give you an idea, below are some of the going rates in Positano Italy.

• A cocktail can cost you upto Euro 3.50 to 7
• A Full meal can cost upto Euro 15 Euros
• Caprese Salad – 13 Euros
• Mixed salad – Euro 6.50
• Bruschetta  – 8 Euros
• Margherita Pizza – 13 Euros (It is 3-5 Euros elsewhere in Italy)
• Pizza Marinara – Euro 13
• You can save cost by just ordering a Big Pizza slice (Instead of whole) at some places.
• Ferry from Sorrento to Positano – 14 Euro to 18 Euro
• Bus from Sorrento to Positano – 2.50 Euro to 3 Euro (50 minutes)

Bear in mind that you are of course, paying for the location as well.

Where to stay in Positano Italy on a budget?

Hostels anyday are cheaper than luxury hotels.

Airbnb is also another option. You may also split cost if you are travelling with friends.

Also, accommodation is much cheaper in Sorrento. Hotels in Positano are two times more expensive than Sorrento. Sant’ Agnello also has cheap stay options.

Budget Tips for Positano Italy

• Rent a scooty/vespa/motorbike
• Rent a car (car parking is a pain though)
• Stay in hostels
• Walk. Walk. Walk. Positano is pedestrian friendly!
• Stay in Airbnb and split costs
• Stay a little far from Positano
• Buy food from super stores
• Pack ready to eat food packets from India.
• Travel in off season

Is Positano Italy safe?

Positano is one of the safest places in Italy. You just need to take precautions which you would take in any other city or country. Though the roads are narrow here, but it is still a pleasure to drive on the coastal roads of Postinao Italy. Take care of your personal safety while driving. The paths are winding and if you are not comfortable driving here, then maybe not.

Last Word on Positano Italy – Conclusion

Positano Italy is surely one of the most offbeat places to see in the popular Amalfi Coast of Italy. A wide variety of Positano hotels offer you amazing stay options as well. Whether solo trip or customised private tours, Positano is perfect for all types of travellers.

I hope you found my guide of Positano village useful. This is one location that one can return to year after year and will stay in your heart forever.

Positano is a visually stunning beach town. The charming Mediterranean houses painted in hues of yellow, pink, white, blue etc blends seamlessly with the blue waters of the sea. The silver grey color of the beach compliments the greenish Monti Lattari mountains. It looks even more beautiful during the evening and night, when it is bathed in lights. Aren’t these some great reasons why you should visit Positano Italy?

Positano Travel Guide by Jesal who blogs at Tourist to Travellers . I am a finance professional living in India with a traveler’s heart. When I am not hustling in the finance field, you will see me planning a trip. I am a thorough budget planner and my blog is an attempt to help people plan their trips on a budget.

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