Greta's Travels

13 EPIC Things to Do in Positano, Italy

Posted on Last updated: January 11, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Positano, Italy? You’ve come to the right place! Positano is known as the Pearl of the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason.

With its narrow streets, colorful buildings, unique art galleries, and best views of the steep hills and Mediterranean Sea, it’s one of the most unique coastal towns you will ever see.

You can easily spend a day, or more, getting lost in the winding roads and panoramic views of Positano.

But Positano isn’t just a pretty town, there are plenty of things to do in Positano and its surroundings that make it worth visiting.

In this article I have outlined all of the best things to do in the town of Positano, as well as other popular activities you can do around Positano.

I’ve also included useful logistics like where to stay, how to get around, how many days to spend in Positano, and more. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and discover the best things to do in Positano!

  • 1.1 Where to stay in Positano
  • 1.2 Do you need travel insurance for your trip to Positano?
  • 1.3 Best time to visit Positano
  • 1.4 How many days do you need in Positano?
  • 1.5 How to get around Positano
  • 2.1 Enjoy the views over Positano
  • 2.2 Watch the Sunset in Positano
  • 2.3 Relax at Spiaggia di Marina Grande
  • 2.4 Relax at Fornillo Beach
  • 2.5 Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta
  • 2.6 Discover the iconic Fiordo di Furore
  • 2.7 Go for a Positano Sunset Boat Trip
  • 2.8 Go for a Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast 
  • 2.9 Hike the Path of the Gods
  • 2.10 Go on a day Trip to the Island of Capri
  • 2.11 Explore the Ruins of Pompeii
  • 2.12 Wander Around the Cute Streets Of Positano
  • 2.13 Enjoy A Meal with A View 

Enjoying the beautiful views in Positano, Italy - one of the best starting points for a Capri day trip

Enjoying the beautiful views in Positano, Italy

Logistical tips for your time in Positano

Before we dive into the best things to do in Positano, I wanted to give you an overview of useful information, which will help you make the most of your time in Positano.

Where to stay in Positano

Being such a popular stop on every Italy itinerary , Positano is a fairly expensive destination. However, don’t let that deter, as it is possible to stay in Positano (and Amalfi Coast in general) without breaking your Italy travel budget .

Budget: Anna Apartment –  If you’re on a budget, Anna Apartment is where to stay in Positano for value for money. It’s a holiday apartment with charming tiled floors, the use of your own kitchen, and a balcony with views out over the sea.

Click here to book your stay at Anna Apartment in Positano!

Mid-range: Hotel Villa Gabrisa –  This family-run property has only 12 rooms, so you can expect an intimate stay and friendliness throughout. Rooms are classically decorated, and its balconies have mesmerising views over the sea.

Click here to see the prices & availability at Hotel Villa Gabrisa!

Luxury: Le Sirenuse   – This is the luxury hotel in Positano by definition. With its gorgeous design, impeccable service, stunning views and central position, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself.

Click here to book your stay at Le Sirenuse in Positano!

Positano at sunset

Positano at sunset

Beautiful views over Positano in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Beautiful views over Positano in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Do you need travel insurance  for your trip to Positano?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Italy travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Enjoying drives along the beautiful Amalfi Coast, with Positano behind me

Enjoying drives along the beautiful Amalfi Coast, with Positano behind me

Best time to visit Positano

Despite popular belief, the summer months aren’t the best time to visit Positano. Summer is way too hot, super busy, and ridiculously expensive.

On the other hand, winter is cold and rainy, and many cafes, restaurants and hotels will be shut for the season. That leaves spring and autumn; the shoulder season.

The weather is still pleasant in spring and autumn, the beaches and towns are less crowded, and you won’t get stuck in traffic trying to get around.

The closer to the summer season you go, the nicer the weather will be, and the busier it will be not just in Positano, but on the Amalfi Coast in general.

Early spring or late autumn is best for fewer people, but the weather won’t always be amazing.

Spiaggia di Marina Grande in Positano, Italy

Spiaggia di Marina Grande in Positano, Italy

How many days do you need in Positano?

Personally, I think you could get away with spending only one, or two days at most, in Positano. While it’s undeniably a stunning coastal town, there isn’t loads to do in the town itself.

Lots of the best things to do in Positano are actually surrounding it. So while you don’t need long to discover the town of Positano, I do believe you need at least five days in Amalfi Coast to properly enjoy its beauty.

It will obviously depend on the rest of your Italy itinerary , but please don’t be one of those travellers who visits Positano and the Amalfi Coast on a day trip from Rome .

If it’s a must-see on every Italy bucket list , there’s a reason. So give yourself at least five days in Amalfi Coast , and spend at least one day discovering Positano.

Exploring the famous Fiordo di Furore near Positano in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Exploring the famous Fiordo di Furore near Positano in Amalfi Coast, Italy

How to get around Positano

Positano itself is a fairly small town, which you can easily discover on foot. If you plan to discover beyond just Positano, then I recommend hiring a scooter.

It’s the easiest way to get around, but as the roads are very winding, I would only hire a scooter if you have experience driving one.

You could get a car, but only if you’re visiting in low season, since in summer you’d be stuck in traffic (or looking for parking) the whole time.

There’s also public transport. High season means buses will be packed, but it’s pretty extensive and you can use buses and trains to get to pretty much anywhere you’ll want to go. 

Ferries also connect the main towns; plus, if you book in advance, you get a guaranteed seat. I’d recommend downloading an app like Ferryhopper, which can help you navigate the ferries with ease.  

Our ride for two days in Positano, Italy

Our ride for two days in Positano, Italy

Best things to do in Positano

Enjoy the views over positano.

First on this itinerary of things to do in Positano is; admire those Amalfi Coast views. There are plenty of spots to get good views, with much of the town clinging to the sides of cliffs, but there are two particularly famous spots.

These can be found along the main road around Positano. Here you can get that iconic view over the houses spilling down the cliffs, the hills, and the sparkling sea.

The first viewpoint  has a couple of cafes nearby, where you can stop to admire the view with a coffee and a snack. It’s not an official viewpoint, it’s just the sidewalk of Via Cristoforo Colombo, but the views are great.

The second viewpoint does have a dedicated viewing terrace, where you can get the perfect photo of Positano.

But realistically, from anywhere along that main road you can get good views over the town. Just bear in mind that it’s a one way street, so if you drive past it you’ll have to drive all the way round to loop back.

The iconic view over Positano, Marina Grande Beach and the Amalfi Coast coastline

The iconic view over Positano, Marina Grande Beach and the Amalfi Coast coastline from Via Cristoforo Colombo

The view over Positano from the second viewpoint

The view over Positano from the second viewpoint

Watch the Sunset in Positano

Because it has such amazing views, one of the best things to do in Positano is to watch the sunset. One of my favourite spots is the first viewpoint I just mentioned above, along Via Cristoforo Colombo.

A place to admire it is Angelo Cafe – a reasonably priced venue with standing tables on a terrace that overlook the amazing Positano vista.

For somewhere a bit fancier, head to Franco’s Bar for an aperitivo. The view from here is simply beautiful, and sunsets are even more amazing.

So, if it’s getting near to evening and you’re wondering what to do in Positano, find a spot for sunset and get ready to be wowed.

Watching the sun go down along the coast, turning the sky red and all the town light up, is simply a magical experience.

Magical Positano at sunset

Magical Positano at sunset

Relax at Spiaggia di Marina Grande

Beach lovers should definitely make sure they have a trip to Marina Grande beach on their list of what to do in Positano for a day.

Located at the foot of the pastel-hued houses that cling to the cliffs, Spiaggia di Positano Marina Grande is Positano’s main beach. The sandy shoreline is a lovely place to soak up the sun for a few hours.

It may not be the prettiest beach you’ve ever seen, but there’s plenty of amenities from the public area to the roped-off private areas where you can hire sun loungers and umbrellas.

It’s a lively atmosphere, with restaurants, bars and cafes edging the beach. There’s also a section of public beach where you don’t have to pay for a sun lounger, but it gets very full very quickly.

If you’re visiting Italy in high season it does get pretty busy down here; so make sure to get there early if you want to grab a spot. 

Enjoying a swim at the main beach of Positano in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Enjoying a swim at the main beach of Positano in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Relax at Fornillo Beach

For more fun things to do in Positano, look no further than Fornillo Beach. It may not be as big as Spiaggia Grande, but for me it’s nicer – not only is it prettier, but it’s also quieter, which makes for a more relaxing time.

There’s more of a laid-back atmosphere at Fornillo Beach, with locals enjoying a cooling swim in the sea.

There are a number of steps you’ll have to descend to get to Fornillo Beach, however, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear.

You’ll find it about a 10-minute walk from Spiaggia Grande. There are a few little beach kiosks here and places to rent chairs and umbrellas for the day.

If what you want to do in Positano is seek good times, then make sure to head here if you’re visiting Italy in summer – the seasonal beach bars here can get fairly lively as the sun starts to set!

Fornillo Beach in Positano, Italy

Fornillo Beach in Positano, Italy

Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

If you’re wondering what is Positano known for aside from its beach clubs and beaches, then head to Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

This beautiful church is the main place of worship in Positano and is often seen dominating iconic photography of the coastal town.

Dating back to 1159, this centuries-old church is topped by a colourful dome decorated with shining, glazed majolica tiles.

Step inside to see the famous Black Madonna and Child, the Byzantine-style icon that dates back to the 13 th century. It’s steeped in various legends of pirates and smuggling.

If you’re here on the weekend you may even be able to spot a wedding taking place, only adding to the romance of one of southern Italy’s most popular churches for weddings.

Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano, Italy

Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano, Italy

Discover the iconic Fiordo di Furore

Located just a 25-minute drive from Positano, Fiordo di Furore is one of the most iconic sights of the Amalfi Coast.

At Fiordo di Furore you will find a small beach at the end of a narrow cove, with steep cliffs on either side and a very scenic arched bridge towering over it.

The water is incredibly turquoise and crystal clear, which adds to the beauty of this spot. It’s completely different from the fancy beaches of Spiaggia Grande or Fornillo in Positano, but not necessarily in a bad way.

Just bear in mind that there are no services of any kind here (no sun-beds, umbrellas, cafes, or restaurants), so make sure to pack everything you need for a day at the beach!

Enjoying the views at the beautiful Fiordo di Furore near Positano, Italy

Enjoying the views at the beautiful Fiordo di Furore near Positano, Italy

Go for a Positano Sunset Boat Trip

When you’re in Positano, things to do don’t get more quintessentially romantic than a private boat tour at sunset. This portion of the Amalfi Coast is particularly pretty when seen from the water.

A good option is to take this particular sunset cruise , which sees you heading out on a luxury yacht to drop anchor and admire the gorgeous scenery as the sun begins to sink below the horizon.

We did this private sunset tour in Positano and it was pretty magical. It’s quite expensive for what you get, but if you’re visiting Amalfi Coast for a special occasion, it’s the kind of unique experience you will never forget.

There’s also the option to add on champagne and snacks to make this a romantic aperitif before heading out for dinner somewhere splendid.

Click here to book your Positano private sunset cruise!

My boyfriend enjoying the view over Positano during our private sunset cruise

My boyfriend enjoying the view over Positano during our private sunset cruise

Go for a Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast  

If you’re looking for activities in Positano that allow you to see the Amalfi Coast in all its picturesque glory, then a Positano boat tour along the shoreline is a good bet.

This tour starts off in the centre of Amalfi, then sets sail for a scenic cruise taking in the main spots along the Amalfi Coast.  

The route sees you swinging by some of the most beautiful beaches the coast has to offer (including those only accessible by sea).

These include famous landmarks such as Saint Andrew’s Grotto, the Arch of Lovers and the Fiordo di Furore, as well as other dramatic rock formations and charming towns along the way.

Click here to book your Positano & Amalfi Coast boat tour!

The beautiful Amalfi Coast at sunset

The beautiful Amalfi Coast at sunset

Positano at sunset as seen from the sea during our private boat trip

Positano at sunset as seen from the sea during our private boat trip

Hike the Path of the Gods

One of the most famous Positano attractions has to be hiking the Path of the Gods (or Sentiero degli Dei in Italian).

This iconic hiking route is much loved and for good reason – the views from 630-metres up on this clifftop trail are absolutely sublime.  

Taking approximately three hours to tackle, this hike runs between the towns of Bomerano and Nocelle, with an option to continue onwards to Positano.

Along the way you’ll pass olive groves and picturesque swaying grasses underneath the blue open skies, with the azure sea glistening below. From the hiking trail you also get an awesome view of Positano in the distance.

It reminded me of the Sentiero Azzurro hike in Cinque Terre . Paired with the perched houses and mountainous views, it’s easy to see why so many people draw comparisons between Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre.

It’s simple to follow and not overly strenuous, but note that the final descent of this hike involves over 1,000 steps. This means it can be quite tough on the knees, so I’d recommend taking it slowly.

If you don’t want to worry about getting lost on the hike, or having to organise transfers to Bomerano, you can also join a guided Path of the Gods hike with local tour guide.

Click here to book your guided Path of the Gods hike!

My boyfriend hiking along the Path of the Gods in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

My boyfriend hiking along the Path of the Gods in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

View of Positano from the Path of the Gods trail

View of Positano from the Path of the Gods trail

Go on a day Trip to the Island of Capri

Even though you’re in Positano, amazing places to see are just a stone’s throw from this Amalfi Coast town. Case in point: Capri.

This iconic island has been home to Roman emperors and nobility, as well as Hollywood film stars.

Doing a day trip to Capri is super easy. Ferries leave seven times per day in high season (either from Positano or Amalfi) and take between 30 minutes to an hour to reach the shores of Capri.

Once you’re on the island, either embark on a Capri boat tour that runs around the coast of Capri – stopping off at the main highlights including the Green and White Grottoes, and the Faraglioni Rocks – or opt for a tour on the island itself.

You’ll discover the ruins of an Imperial Roman palace, and a viewpoint atop the isle that affords sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Click here to book your full-day boat tour to Capri from Positano!

Enjoying our private boat cruise in Capri, with the iconic Faraglioni Rocks behind us - one of the highlights of our Capri day trip

Enjoying our private boat cruise in Capri, with the iconic Faraglioni Rocks behind us

Explore the Ruins of Pompeii

There are plenty of places to visit in Positano, but as shown by the proximity of Capri, there are plenty of cool spots nearby too. 

The ancient archaeological site of Pompeii is around 40 kilometres from Positano (taking around an hour to drive), or you could catch the train (from Amalfi), which takes 30 minutes and costs about 4 EUR.

There are also lots of Pompeii day tours to make things much easier – you’ll get collected from your accommodation and cut out the hassle of transport.

No matter how you get there, once you’re at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can spend the day learning all about what life was like for the ancient Romans who lived in Pompeii.

See the lavish villas, bars, brothels and walk down the cobbled streets of the ruins of Pompeii . I recommend taking a tour of the town so you can get a deep understanding of the site.

Click here to book your Positano to Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius guided tour!

The Foro di Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

The Foro di Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Unique views of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in Italy

Unique views of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in Italy

Wander Around the Cute Streets Of Positano

A must-see in Positano, Italy, is to simply explore the narrow lanes of the town. These winding alleyways can seem like a labyrinth when you’re wandering around them, and that’s actually by design.

These pedestrianised lanes were purposely laid out in a confusing manner in order to protect the town from marauding pirates centuries ago.  

So, make sure to take some time to discover this part of town on foot, stumbling across pretty churches, flower-clad houses, and pastel-coloured doorways.

The facade of Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano, Italy

The facade of Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano, Italy

Walking along the seafront of Positano, Italy

Walking along the seafront of Positano, Italy

Enjoy A Meal with A View  

One of the top things to do in Positano is to treat yourself to a meal with a view, whether that’s lunch or a sunset dinner and drinks.

The elegant La Sponda, which overlooks the chiesa, is probably the most famous restaurant for its beautiful views.

If you don’t want to spend too much (La Sponda is pretty pricey and more into fine dining), don’t worry, as the town is packed with restaurants boasting that iconic Positano view.

Most restaurants with views won’t be amazing in terms of food and will likely be over priced (like   in every tourist hotspot) – you pay for the view, right – but there are exceptions.

One of these is C’era Una Volta, a down-to-earth trattoria with unbelievably budget-friendly food and drinks (and views!). It’s worlds away from overpriced tourist restaurants in town.  

La Cambusa is also another option. Known for its seafood as much as its seafront terrace, this restaurant is both not too priced and has good food to match the views.

Seafront restaurants in Positano, Italy

Seafront restaurants in Positano, Italy

Final thoughts on must see in Positano Italy

There you have it, the ultimate guide to the top Positano attractions! Have you been to Positano and Amalfi Coast before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Positano is one of the most iconic and recognisable towns in Italy. Alongside Venice , Cinque Terre , Lake Como , Rome and Florence , it’s one of the best places to visit in Italy.

With its cobbled streets, perched houses, crystal clear water and mountainous coastline, it creates a stunning picture. Seeing the Pearl of the Amalfi Coast in person is something you will remember forever.

I hope you found my guide to the best things to do in Positano useful! If you have any questions about Positano, just let me know in the comments below!

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Photo collage of the sunset over Positano and the view over Positano during the day with text overlay saying

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Undiscovered Path Home

13 Amazing Things to Do in Positano (You Can’t Miss)

  • June 19, 2023
  • 12 minute read

Winding streets, colorful buildings, sweeping views and local dishes on colorful patios… Of all the places on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is perhaps the most magical. But for so many visitors, Positano is just a quick stop to check off, at least at first. Most people planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast don’t realize there are so many things to do in Positano. From cooking classes in Positano to luxurious beach clubs to rewarding hikes, there’s truly plenty of Positano things to do. 

But first, let me rewind. Because I didn’t always love Positano in this way. In fact, I used to think Positano was overrated. 

Disclosure: this article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, I earn a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing and help keep my content free. It’s a win-win! For more information, check out my disclosure policy  here .

I’ve visited Italy more than a dozen times, traveling through Italy’s Puglia region to Positano and the Amalfi Coast and all the way up to the Dolomites. I first visited Positano in 2022 with my mother – it was one of her bucket list trips! To be honest, I wasn’t all that excited about visiting this hyper-populated area of Italy…But despite the crowds, it absolutely blew me away. 

A girl poses in front of a POsitano View, one of the best things to do in Positano

Planning an Amalfi Coast trip means planning a stop in Positano, though I often recommend visitors spend at least one night in Positano. That’s because there’s so many things to do in Positano, and once the day trip tourists depart, you’ll experience a whole different Positano. 

We spent a couple nights in Positano, and during that time, I realized that everything everyone had told me about Positano was wrong. There is SO much to do in Positano Italy – and many of the most popular things to do in Amalfi Coast are best done right here, in Positano. As a longtime Italy traveler and avid Positano lover, let’s dive into my complete and comprehensive list of the very best things to do in Positano! 

Best Time to Visit Positano

First things first: let’s tackle the best time to visit Positano. The best time to visit Positano is between May and September, though you’re better off avoiding peak summer times to avoid peak summer crowds. 

From April to October, there’s really no way to visit Positano without encountering some amount of crowds. I visited the Amalfi Coast in early May 2021, and I can say that the crowds we dealt with were minimal compared to the crowds in June and July. Since then, I have seen videos that make it look much more crowded in May.

May, April, September and October may not be peak months for swimming, but the Amalfi Coast doesn’t have much swimming regardless. These shoulder months are your best bet for visiting the Amalfi Coast and planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast. Midweek is, of course, best for better deals and fewer crowds. 

Positano at sunset, one of the best places to visit on the Amalfi Coast

Find my complete blog post about things I wish I had known before planning my Amalfi Coast trip right here . 

Best Things to Do in Positano 

Once you’ve narrowed down the best time to visit Positano, it’s time to figure out the most fun things to do in Positano. When you learn about Positano things to do, you will better understand how many days you need for each segment for your trip. Let’s get started. 

What to do in Positano: Amalfi Coast Day Tour

A girl poses on a boat off the coast of Positano one of the best things to do in Positano

One of the very first things I do when I visit a new place is take a tour. If you’ve been here before, you know I’m a big advocate of tours. They help me understand the layout of the area and give me an overview of everything there is to do – so I can pick what I want to explore further. That’s why an Amalfi Coast Day Tour is at the top of my things to do in Positano. 

If you’re based in Positano, you’re lucky: Positano provides one of the best bases in the Amalfi Coast, hands down. This is especially true for tours & boating options, which is hands down the best way to see the Amalfi Coast. That’s because the Amalfi Coast has small roads – and far too much traffic. Boats really are the best way to get around, though you can opt for scooters or private cars, as well, if boats make you sick. 

A  boat off the coast of Positano one of the best things to do in Positano

I’ve got my recommendations down below for a couple super fun options… 

Amalfi Coast Day Tour via boat

  • The best small boat option with drinks
  • Small group guided boat trip (7 hours)

Amalfi Coast Day Tour via scooter

  • Guided Vespa tour (SO MUCH FUN!!)
  • Positano Scooter Rental

Amalfi Coast Day Tour via private car

  • Private car or van guided tour 

Visit Positano’s Popular Beach, Spiaggia Grande

Positano’s Popular Beach, Spiaggia Grande, one of the best things to do in Positano

How many times have you seen these photos of Positano’s beach online? The Positano’s popular beach, Spiaggia Grande, is one of the only actual beaches on the Amalfi Coast, as the coastline and many of its cities are built into cliff sides. 

When I think about essential Positano things to do, there’s no way you can skip this gem. However, thanks to tourists, Spiaggia Grande is perhaps one of the busiest spots in Positano (see below for more of my favorite beaches nearby with far fewer tourists!).

If you want that iconic spot, I won’t discourage you. After all, this is the perfect spot to visit in the early morning or late at night for those dusk sunset shoots. For the added vibe, rent a beach chair and umbrella! More on my favorite beach clubs on the Amalfi Coast below! 

Rent a scooter to ride around the coast

Is there ANYTHING better than renting a scooter and zooming around the Amalfi Coast? The narrow, winding and mostly uphill roads of the Amalfi Coast are made for scooters. There’s no better Positano activity. It’s especially fantastic if you’re planning to visit Positano or if you’re planning to stay in Positano for a couple days. 

The winding streets of Positano, the perfect place to ride a scooter, one of the best things to do in Positano

If you’re looking to experience Positano with a scooter, you’ve got two options: a guided tour or an independent rental. I personally think both options are super fun – and both options are vastly different. You should pick the choice which works best for your own confidence level. Not everyone feels super comfortable renting their own scooter! 

So that’s my first option: rent your own scooter. If you do want to rent your own scooter, you’ll need an international driver’s license, which is quick and easy to get prior to traveling. This is the perfect option for travelers looking to skip the stairs (and there are SO MANY) and instead get those unreal views with a more efficient way to get around. I promise you, this is one of the most fun things to do in Positano – you cannot miss it! 

The second option: a guided Vespa tour ! Now, guided Vespa tours aren’t very common in Positano, so this is a true hidden gem. This is a fantastic option if you want to get on a Vespa, but don’t necessarily want to do it alone. 

Splurge on a stay at 5-Star Hotels (or at least visit!)

A lavish hotel in Positano, one of the best things to do in Positano

What is Positano without their lavish 5-star hotels? In fact, Positano is home to some of the best places to stay on the Amalfi Coast. We’re talking vaulted ceilings, beautiful tiles and stunning views… Truly one of the best things to do in Positano. 

Here’s the good news: You don’t need to book a stay in Positano’s best hotels to enjoy their view and the vibe, though you certainly can, if you want. If you find yourself on a budget, why not just stop by for drinks or a meal? 

My favorite 5-star hotels in Positano are Hotel Poseidon and their award-winning Il Tridente as well as Le Sirenuse and their amazing restaurant, La Sponda . They both have fabulous pools – and of course wonderful patios for lunch or a quick drink. 

Get dinner with a view!

When I think about the top things to do in Positano, my mind can’t help but wander to Italian food. Let’s face it: Italian food is perhaps one of the top reasons we visit Italy (well, it is for me!). I love homemade pasta, fresh seafood, crispy focaccia…You name it, I love it. 

One of the best restaurants in Positano, Italy, Zass, shows off their Signature dish Insalata di verdure cotte e crude

So what’s the food like in Positano? Positano had some of the best Italian food of our Amalfi Coast trip, that’s for sure. Stopping for lunch or dinner in Positano has to make my list of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast – for the view alone. I have a full list of my favorite Positano restaurants here , but some of my favorite spots with a view included:

  • Zass , a one Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Positano, Italy. This lovely restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Positano with a view – and one of the top restaurants in Positano, all around. 
  • Da Vincenzo Positano 1958 , a lovely local spot flagged by the Michelin guide. For the view, ask to sit outside. 
  • La Sponda , located in the iconic Sirenuse Hotel. The view, alone, is worth the price point, making this one of the best restaurants in Positano with a view…and the food is exceptional, too. 

For any restaurants, plan to reserve tables well in advance – especially during peak season! 

Learn how to make your favorite Italian food

Right about now you’re thinking, Another food-related item on your list of the top things to do in Positano? Really? 

Oh yes, I’m being serious. Because Italian food is the best of the best. The Amalfi Coast is famous for their cuisine – and the Amalfi Coast has some of the best lemons, seafood and cheese (see: Mozzarella di Bufala) in the country. 

Why not learn how to make some of the Italian food you love so much? When I think about my favorite things to do in Positano, this has to top the list: cooking classes in Positano! 

Full disclosure: cooking classes in Positano are SO much fun. Expect lots of music, laughter, wine and sweeping views. I loved these two classes for authentic, delicious experiences:

  • Small group cooking class in Positano at a local’s home, where you learn to make homemade pasta and tiramisu . 
  • If you’re staying in Sorrento, this hands-on pizza and pastry class is truly the best!

Hike the Path of the Gods

Hikers, this one’s for you! The five-hour walk down the Path of Gods is one of the most iconic hikes in Italy, and the views are next level. Staying in Positano is the perfect base for this epic hike, too. 

The 8 kilometer hike can be done alone, of course, but if you’re new to the area, I’d recommend a tour guide. This guided hike with Enzo is the best option. Enzo takes you through the most beautiful hike in the Amalfi Coast with patience, kindness and laughter. He tailors the route to your skill level, which is awesome!

Dance at Music on the Rocks

People dance at Music on the Rocks, a Positano nightclub, one of the best things to do in Positano

If you love to dance the night away, don’t forget to stop at Music on the Rocks. Of all the Positano Italy things to do, this option is best for nightlife lovers. It’s especially awesome for those looking for unique things to do in the Amalfi Coast – after all, you’re literally in a cave! 

Music on the Rocks is a disco located in a cave (yes, an actual cave!) and it is SO MUCH FUN! It’s truly not my thing to normally visit clubs, but I didn’t hate this one…perhaps because it was a really cool way to see Positano. 

People dance at Music on the Rocks, a Positano nightclub, one of the best things to do in Positano

If you’re big on going out, just know there are not many options in Positano. The list of things to do in Positano at night is quite small….Except this one. If you do plan to visit, keep in mind many Italians like to party later, so don’t come before 1 a.m. 

Visit a beach club

Beach clubs are one of my favorite parts about visiting the Mediterranean. And when you’re visiting (or staying!) in Positano, it’s important to know that the main beach in Positano…is not the only beach in Positano. 

Most people (especially day trip visitors) will arrive via port at Positano and hop on over to the iconic Spiaggia Grande. It’s a beautiful beach, but there are others with far, far fewer tourists.  

Beach clubs are by far my favorite way to experience beaches in Italy. That’s because they offer your chairs and umbrellas for rent as well as drink and food service. 

Here are some of my favorite iconic beach clubs on the Amalfi Coast: 

  • ​​Arienzo Beach Club in Positano
  • Treville Beach Club in Positano
  • La Scogliera in Positano
  • Da Adolfo in Positano
  • One Fire Beach Club in Praiano (a short taxi ride away!)
  • La Fontelina in Capri (an iconic beach club!)

No matter where you plan to visit, reserve your spots in advance. This is especially critical during peak season, when everyone is looking for things to do in Positano & things to do in Amalfi Coast. 

Stop at Fornillo, the less touristy part of Positano

A woman walks in Fornillo, one of the best things to do in Positano

I’m going to be honest with you: Positano is packed. There’s simply no avoiding the crowds staying in the city and the crowds visiting for the day. These days, it seems everyone has Positano on their list of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast. Sigh. 

But if you stay in Positano, you have a secret trick up your sleeve: Fornillo. 

Before you visit Positano, you need to understand the structure of the city. Because of the serious stairs in Positano, most tourists will cluster around the port and the main beach. However, if you look to the left on a map, you’ll notice another area of Positano… one with far, far fewer tourists. When we visited Fornillo, I could immediately notice a difference: fewer people, better restaurants… It was like a different city! 

A woman sits at a store in Positano, one of the best things to do in Positano

What should you do in Fornillo? Well, there’s also Fornillo Beach, a much-less-visited beach. The area also has some of the best restaurants in Positano , including Saraceno d’Oro (which has this amazing live music!) and Da Vincenzo Positano . 

Visiting during a crowded time? If you’re looking for things to do in Positano in July to escape the hordes of tourists, Fornillo is for you. 

Take a day trip from Positano to Capri Island

A day trip to the island of Capri may be one of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast, period. This resort island, known for its rugged landscape, designer shopping and sweeping views. It’s truly like stepping back in time. You can’t visit Positano or the Amalfi Coast without visiting Capri, too. 

A woman on a boat in Capri on a day trip to the island, one of the best things to do in Positano

Booking a boat tour to Capri is a MUST! We didn’t have time to spend a night in Capri, but if you have time, it’s a must. The island is really, really big – and a day trip will let you see some of it, but not all of it. 

If you plan to visit Capri from Positano, you have two options: ferry or private boat tour. 

Pros for the ferry: The ferry tends to be much cheaper at 40 Euros, and only takes around 40 minutes. It’s an easy trip from Positano. 

Pros for the boat tour: Capri is known for its boating, and with a private or shared boat tour you can soak up some of the sights you will only see from the water, like the Blue Grotto or some of the unique rock formations. We took a private tour, and I wouldn’t have done it any other way! 

Here are my recommendations for Capri boat tours from Positano:

Group Boat Tour

  • A small, all inclusive boat tour of Capri (including a city visit!) – this is the tour we did, and we loved it ! 

Private Boat Tour

  • If you can swing it, this private boat tour is truly the best. There’s so many secret, hidden spots in Capri – and a private tour helps you avoid where the rest of the tours visit (and customize your trip!)

Invest in local, handmade sandals

The Amalfi Coast is known for their leather work – and in particular, their sandals. Positano is filled with artisan stores where they will happily make you custom sandals, fit perfectly to your foot. You can pick the style, color and style. After a short wait, you’ll have your own pair of sandals! 

Visit the Rest of the Amalfi Coast

A girl poses in Amalfi, one of the best things to do in Positano

If you’re staying in Positano, you need to make sure you see, well, the rest of the Amalfi Coast. It’s true what everyone says about the Amalfi Coast: each town has its own vibe and its own atmosphere. 

Each spot is different! We loved, in particular, Capri, Amalfi and Sorrento (in addition to Positano). 

If you have some extra time in the Amalfi Coast, I’d recommend visiting a local farm through a tour like this one . It’s a really cool, peaceful way to taste some of the delicious olive oil, lemons and wine from the region – and relax and enjoy the view. 

There’s plenty of amazing things to do in Amalfi Coast, too, if you want more historical substance. 

A girl poses in Positano, one of the best things to do in Positano

If history is your favorite, but you’re not really visiting Sorrento or Naples, you can also opt for this easy tour from Positano to Pompeii . If you’re in the area, I cannot recommend Pompeii enough. It’s such a fascinating place to visit, and there’s so much history there – when we visited, we were able to see an active excavation site, too! 

If you do visit Pompeii, no matter your base, please book a guide ! When we visited, we spent a little extra and booked a local guided tour. I’m so happy we did. Otherwise, to be honest, it’s not worth your time… you’re just looking at ruins with little to no context. A tour guide can help explain the significance of the site and the little details you will otherwise miss. This is the tour we did, and our guide was honestly fantastic. I’d highly recommend this tour!

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Samantha Tatro is a Czech-American third culture kid who grew up living and traveling abroad. Many years later, after living in California and working as a journalist, she decided to take the leap and move abroad again…this time to Prague, Czech Republic. Samantha started Undiscovered Path Home to help couples and solo female travelers find the courage to visit countries – and locations – off the beaten path. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, NBC News , The Adecco Group , and more .

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Wish I read this before I went to Positano haha, great info, gorgeous pictures!!

Positano is high on my bucket list! Really hoping to go next summer! Thanks for all these recommendations, will def be saving this for later!

Positano is on my bucket list. I am definitely saving for future travel planning!

Positano is quite literally my favorite place!

It’s literally MAGIC!

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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.

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Amalfi Coast Italy

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. 

Ferry Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

boating Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Path of the Gods hike Amalfi Coast Italy

  • 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!

Amalfi Coast Itinerary mobile banner

3. Eat the freshest seafood for lunch at Da Adolfo

Da Adolfo Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Buca di Bacco Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

leather sandals in Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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. 

custom leather sandals in Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Positano Scooter (Viator)

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

Aperitivo Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Santa Maria Assunta Church Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Amalfi, Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Amalfi, Amalfi Coast Italy

  • 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

Ravello Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Capri, Italy

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 Amalfi Coast Italy

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?

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Train from Naples to Positano Italy

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

Ferry to Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

bus in Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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.

Ferry to Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Internal Positano bus route

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. 

bus in Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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 Brikette (Booking)

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.

B&B Il Canneto (Booking)

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. 

Villa Capricorno (Airbnb)

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.

Villa Paradiso (Airbnb)

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.

Hotel Casa Albertina Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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!!). 

Casa Buonocore (Booking)

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.

Le Sirenuse (Booking)

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

Positano Amalfi Coast Italy

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!?

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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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The Best Things to Do in Positano, Italy

Positano is a visually stunning town on the Amalfi Coast

With its pastel facades, vertiginous hillsides and indigo waters, Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s quintessential village. Here are the top hikes, road trips, beaches and shops in Positano.

The view of Positano from the sea – sun-bleached houses stacked haphazardly against the hillside, with gravity-defying grace – is perhaps one of the most enduring scenes on the Amalfi Coast . Bougainvillea-clad alleyways lead steeply downward towards the sea, past old-fashioned bars and chi-chi boutiques selling the best in Positano hippy-chic fashion. The beach itself is pebbled rather than sandy, but that doesn’t deter the millions of tourists who come here every year for a taste of the quintessential Amalfi Coast. We’ve put together the best things to do in Positano, Italy .

If you want to visit Positano for yourself, join our premium 10-day Southern Italy trip – you’ll explore the best destinations in the south, including a day on the Amalfi Coast, with the help of our Local Insider.

1. Walk the Path of the Gods

Hiking Trail

The Walk of the Gods is also known as the Path of the Gods and offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

Escape the crowds and make the best of the marvellous views along the coast and out to the island of Capri, on this famous hike (known as Il Sentiero degli Dei, or “path of the gods”) from Bomerano to Nocelle. Originally an ancient mule route, the pathway conjures mythical images of gods and sirens along its 6.5km (4mi) stretch. The landscape is diverse, from tiered agricultural hills to curious caves and precipitous clifftops, plunging down to the beach far below and lapped by a shimmering sea.

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3. Swim and sunbathe at Positano Spiaggia Grande

Natural Feature

Colourful beach scene on the Spiaggia Grande (main beach) in Positano, Italy. Vacationers relaxing under umbrellas with the town towering above

Think of Positano and you’ll picture Spiaggia Grande, a 300m (1,000ft) parasol-strewn beach at the foot of the village’s colourful terraces. From here, you can hire kayaks or take a boat trip to other beaches and admire the Amalfi Coast from afar. Book a sunbed and parasol from the bath house, or sunbathe for free on the central section of beach where you can lay down your towel. Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants lining the beachfront and return in the evening for a different kind of Positano vibe.

4. Walk down the coast to Fornillo Beach

Spiaggia del Fornillo, beach, coast of Amalfi, Naples, Campania, Italy

After Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo is the second-largest beach in Positano. Although not strictly within the village itself, it’s only a 15-minute walk along a pretty coastal path to reach this less touristy stretch of beach . You’ll still find beach clubs, lines of parasols and sunbeds, restaurants and boating activities – but there’s a more relaxed atmosphere for the sun worshippers who make it here. Don’t miss the Fish Festival that closes the summer season with a seafood celebration.

5. Party at Music on the Rocks

Nightclub, Italian

Italy,Campania,Amalfi Coast,listed as World Heritage by UNESCO,Positano,Music on the Rocks nightclub

This dramatic beach-front nightclub could more accurately be called Music in the Rocks, due to being carved out of the rocks that fringe the eastern point of the Spiaggia Grande. Join the dolled-up crowd who flock here for the region’s top DJs, which have been banging out party tunes here since 1972. Considered one of the best clubs on the coast, you can expect high prices, but for the view across the sea and a unique “party in a cave” experience, it’s worth a visit.

6. Dine at Saraceno d’Oro

Restaurant, Italian

Take a table at Saraceno d’Oro early on in your trip – that way you’ll have time for a second visit, which you’ll inevitably be ready for the minute you leave. Simplicity is often the best choice in Italy because the basic, sun-ripened and artisan ingredients are just so damn good. You can’t go wrong here, with an antipasto of prosciutto ham and mozzarella cheese, followed by a pizza, and lemon cake to finish – the limoncello is usually on the house. Unfussy and top-quality local ingredients, with a warm, friendly atmosphere, make this a popular spot. Book ahead for a table on the terrace.

7. Take a boat to La Fontelina

Capri Italy La Fontelina beach

Pretty blue parasols dot the rocky edged beach at La Fontelina, beneath the watchful eye of Capri ’s three iconic Faraglioni rock stacks. The restaurant has been here since 1949, but it wasn’t until the ’60s that Capri became an essential part of the Hollywood elite’s Grand Tour, with the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren stopping by for dinner. The beach club came later, and its unique location in this enchanting cove makes for a fabulous day trip from Positano.

8. Buy handmade sandals at Nana Positano

These delicate, bejewelled sandals have been handmade in Positano for three generations, and are very much moda Positano (Positano fashion). Using only the finest leather and a shimmering array of brilliant crystal gems, Nana Positano offers a world-class product to every customer. Choose your own gems to be set in the sandal of your choice, for a truly unique souvenir. You can even have your initials put in the soles of your new dancing shoes.

9. Visit the Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption

Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption (Church of Santa Maria Assunta), Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

No matter where you are in Positano, you’ll be able to see the colourful mosaic tiled dome atop the village’s iconic church. Originally a 10th-century Benedictine Abbey, the Archbishop of Amalfi rededicated the church to the Virgin Mary when a Byzantine icon of her was brought to the abbey in the 12th century, and she became the patron saint. The icon can still be seen today, above the altar.

10. Take cable car up Monte Faito

Cable car at Monte Faito, view on Castellammare di Stabia, Peninsula of Sorrento, Gulf of Naples, Campania, Italy

Take the 50-minute drive north from Positano to Castellammare di Stabia train station in Piazza Unita’ d’Italia. From there, you can take a cable car up Monte Faito. The ride itself offers spectacular panoramic views around the region. When you reach the top, you can indulge in a spot of forest bathing amid cool mountain air, and if you pack a picnic, you can easily spend a day here, enjoying a break from the summer heat. At only €8 (£7) for a return journey, it’s one of the cheaper attractions the area has to offer.

For more Italian inspiration, check out our 10-day Epic Trip to Northern Italy , our five-day Mini Trip to Puglia , or our four-day foodie tour of Bologna .

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

Coastal Italian vacation dreams come true in Positano.

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.

places to visit in positano italy

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 ambiance. Hotels teetering above cliffs 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 — or hire a private car and navigate the curve-hugging roads on their own — to reach Positano.  If you arrive during the day, you could also 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 holiday goers 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

So much of the charm of Positano is tied to its scenic environs and laid-back yet buzzy energy. Spiaggia Grande 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 more low-key alternative to the crowds at the main beach? Consider Fornillo. 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-shaped roof. MAR - Museo Archeologico Romano gives visitors a close-up look at an ancient Roman villa with crypts and beautifully preserved frescos. 

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. So definitely consider booking a boat excursion or even doing 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 (yes, vacation certainly falls into that category). 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. 

tommasolizzul/Getty Images

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 a sense of 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 that give it a privileged feel. The splendid indoor and outdoor spaces — which include 12 rooms, three pools, a spa, a restaurant, and a cocktail bar — evoke intimate vacation vibes. With Michelin-rated cuisine to savor, panoramic terraces that invite lingering long after the Aperol spritzes are finished, and rooms accented with character-rich details like custom-upholstered furnishings and hand-painted ceramic tiles, Il San Pietro di Positano , a Relais & Chateaux property, is thoughtfully designed to encourage guests to stop and appreciate each and every moment. 

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20 amazing things to do in Positano, Amalfi Coast

Located on the picturesque Amalfi Coast, Positano is a charming Italian town where time seems to stand still. The colourful houses perched on the hillsides surrounding the town make for breathtaking views, and attract tourists from all over the world.

Positano went under the spotlight back in 1953 when author John Steinbeck published an essay about the town in Harper’s Bazaar, mentioning how “Positano bites deep” and “is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone”.

The preserved jewel of the Amalfi Coast then became the favourite destination of many celebrities, artists, singers, writers and other famous people. Today, it is a destination highly appreciated by couples for its romantic atmosphere! Positano is a perfect example of the finest things the Italian culture has to offer, among delicious food and traditional drinks, art, lovely shops and welcoming locals.

Are you planning a vacation in Positano or just curious about this famous destination? Have a look at my top 20 things to do in Positano on the Amalfi Coast!

This article contains affiliate links, which allows me to earn a small commission on any purchase you make through my links, at no extra cost to you. It helps me keep this blog running, thanks for understanding!

1. Stroll around the town of Positano

With its narrow streets and colourful houses, you can walk all day around Positano and still be amazed by the view at every new street corner. Enjoying the architecture and getting lost in the town was one of my favourite things when I was in Positano.

You can also follow a guide to learn about the secrets of Positano and the best addresses in town!

If you visit Positano in the summer, I would recommend strolling around the town early in the morning, to avoid the heat and the crowds of tourists, or late in the afternoon. There are many steps because of how Positano is built on a hill and it’s not very enjoyable when the sun is at its peak.

Have a look at these 25 stunning pictures of Positano for more inspiration!

Joli bâtiment à Positano Italie

2. Try Positano’s traditional sweets

Delizia al limone: made of a light, spongy cake with a thick layer of lemon cream on top.

Babà: you will find two types of babà, the fresh ones filled with cream or soaked ones, babà al rum (with rum) or babà al limoncello (with limoncello).

Sfogliatelle: this shell-shaped pastry has crispy layers and a delicious lemon cream filling, as well as a drop of cream on top!

Delizia al limone La Zagara Positano

Images from La Zagara

The best pastry shops in Positano are La Zagara , Angelo Pasticceria , and Collina Positano Bakery .

If you happen to visit the town of Amalfi, you should also stop at Pasticceria Andrea Pansa , one of the oldest pastry shops on the Amalfi Coast!

3. Go to the beach

When in Positano, it’s almost impossible not to go to the beach! With its turquoise water and warm temperature, the sea calls you. There are four beaches near Positano:

Marina Grande Beach: the main beach of Positano directly in front of the town. Most of the beach is private but there is a free area.

Fornillo Beach: accessible via a short path starting from Positano’s harbour, the atmosphere there is calmer and more peaceful than the Marina Grande!

Arienzo Beach: located a little outside of Positano (about 1km from the centre, a 20 min walk), this beach has the best orientation and enjoys the sun longer than the other beaches. There is a public space as well as a beach club!

Laurito Beach : a tiny beach further away than Arienzo Beach (about 3.5km from the centre). To reach it you must go by car or by boat from the Marina Grande. This beach is reachable via steps from the small square opposite Hotel San Pietro. Both free and private spaces and restaurants.

Plage Marina Grande à Positano

4. Visit an art gallery

The centre of Positano is home to many art galleries, with works inspired by the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Among the most famous addresses are the Italian Fine Art Gallery ,  La Caravella Art Gallery  which combines art and a Michelin starred restaurant, or the  Liquid Art System . Many artists come to Positano to immortalize its landscapes!

5. Eat traditional food at incredible restaurants in Positano

What to eat in positano.

Seafood: many kinds of fishes, crabs, anchovies, octopus… One of the famous dishes is the Pesce alla acqua pazza: a simple preparation with fish, tomatoes, olive oil, Mediterranean herbs and white wine.

Pasta: Scialatielli with Sea Food, Spaghetti alla Nerano (with zucchini and provolone cheese), Spaghetti alle Vongole (with clams)

Pizza: I don’t really have a specific pizza to recommend here, all of them are amazing!

Cheese: not far away from Positano and the Amalfi Coast is a small chain of mountains call Monti Lattari, where most of the dairy products from the region come from! One of the most famous cheeses produced in Monti Lattari is the mozzarella Fior di Latte , made with cow milk, which you will find on most Margherita pizza. But it’s not the only one! The star product of the region is actually the Provolone del Monaco . You can also try some goat cheese .

Desserts: Delizia al limone, Torta Caprese, gelato!

Drinks: for wines, try any of the DOC Tramonti, DOC Ravello or DOC Furore, these wines are from the three vineyards of the Amalfi Coast. And of course, don’t miss the famous Limoncello!

You can also discover Positano’s authentic flavours by following this delicious food tour .

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Where to eat in Positano: a selection of the best restaurants!

Capricci: a traditional trattoria perfect for takeaway and pizza!

Adamo e Eva: this restaurant offers a fine dining experience, serving mostly seafood-based dishes. The view is absolutely breathtaking.

Chez Black: Located on the seafront, this restaurant serves delicious fresh fish, pasta, and also a famous heart-shaped pizza!

Ristorante Mirage: With a breathtaking view and welcoming staff, this is a perfect place for a romantic dinner. Traditional dishes are really delicious!

La Tagliata: located high on the hills, expect to experience a really authentic Italian dinner! La Tagliata has no menu and you will be served whatever the chef feels like cooking, based on fresh ingredients from their garden. This restaurant is very well-known and because of its success and the number of people willing to have dinner there, it might be a better idea to eat there when the season is not at its peak if you want to enjoy high-quality dishes.

Casa e Bottega: a fresh atmosphere and tasty dishes! This restaurant has a large choice of excellent salads and is the perfect place whenever you need a break from pasta or pizza 😁

La Pergola: for delicious gelato!

Le Sirenuse Champagne Bar: for fancy drinks and lovely views. You can also have diner at the Hotel Le Sirenuse , they serve delicious spaghetti alle Vongole (Spaghetti with clams).

6. Visit the church of Santa Maria Assunta

The church of Santa Maria Assunta, also called the church of Our Lady of the Assumption in English, is a beautiful catholic church located at the heart of Positano, right next to the beach! It was once an abbey and actually dates back to the 10th century. It is worth visiting it for its beautiful interiors and peaceful atmosphere!

The church is open from 8 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Positano en Italie vu depuis le port

7. Follow a cooking class in Positano

Another way to discover delicious Italian food than going to the restaurant is by following a cooking class! Learn how traditional spaghetti is made by hand, make your own delizia al limone or sfogliatelle… Check out these classes below!

Best cooking classes in Positano, Amalfi Coast

8. go for a hike.

Positano is surrounded by hills, and is therefore the starting point of many hikes! Hiking on the Amalfi Coast is a unique experience, you will be amazed by the breathtaking landscapes and views the paths offer.

The best hikes around Positano are The Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei), La Baia di Ieranto, Punta Campanella, Il Santuario dell’Avvocata and La Torre dello Ziro.

9. Shop in Positano

There are so many lovely shops in Positano, I am sure you will want to enter every one of them just like I did! So keep some time on your agenda for a little shopping.

The best things to shop for in Positano are local products, and more particularly, lemons! While you will find many shops selling products made from lemon, the best place to buy them is Sapori e Profumi di Positano , they have everything from the famous Lemon drop candies to lemon-scented candles, soaps, perfumes, limoncello, creams…

Hand-painted ceramic with lemons in Positano

In Positano, you will also find many shops selling handmade leather sandals or hand-painted ceramics, and cute “beach style” clothing boutiques! Crochet tops and dresses, linen pants, swimsuits… These boutiques have everything someone addicted to the beach like I am ever wanted 😁

Pretty fabrics in the shop Theodora

10. Take photos of Positano

The town is so pretty you will want to photograph every corner! From colourful houses to pretty doors, breathtaking views and turquoise sea, Positano can be photographed under every angle and will always look pretty. Take photos of moments that will remind you of nice memories and of the amazing time you are having!

Baie de Positano

11. Taste and learn how to make traditional limoncello

If you don’t know about it already, limoncello is a sweet liquor made from lemons’ peels that is very famous in Italy. Absolutely delicious! Well, since the Amalfi Coast has some of the best lemons in the country, it is easy to say they have one of the best limoncellos too.

And the best way to discover this traditional drink is by learning how it’s made! You can follow a workshop at Valenti Positano, a small traditional factory that produces fantastic limoncello, and take the recipe home with you to extend your Italian vacation indefinitely! Book their Limoncello & Marmelade experience on their website .

Valenti Positano is also a cute shop where you will find delicious lemon products and other seasonal products from the region.

12. Enjoy the view

When in Positano, you will get the feeling that time has stopped and that nothing else matters other than this little piece of paradise where you find yourself. So enjoy every minute of it! Sit down at a bench, and admire the view. Let your mind wander, while taking in the beauty of Positano.

13. Discover the coastline on a Vespa

Renting a scooter in Positano is the best way to discover the Amalfi Coast! It is cheap, fast and you won’t be bothered by traffic on the road! You can also enjoy the breathtaking views to the fullest. And what’s better than Italy’s iconic scooter, a Vespa, for that? Rent your Vespa in Positano now by clicking right here .

14. Follow an art class

Many painters come to Positano to capture its beauty. You will most likely spot some of them on Marina Grande Beach! So why not try it yourself?

You already are into art? Bring your tools with you! Positano is a great source of inspiration. If not, why not try watercolour? You can even follow a class for an afternoon to get acquainted with the techniques of local painters.

Check out this class that takes you on the Path of the Gods for a hike, during which you will stop and learn how to sketch the landscape with watercolour!

Planning a long stay in Positano? Check out this 8-day watercolour painting and cooking class !

Peintre à Positano

15. Visit the Museo Archeologico Romano

This museum is located in a very old Roman villa, discovered and restored only in recent years. It is an amazing place, full of history, where you will be able to contemplate the 2000 years-old colourful frescos on the walls of the villa. You will also find there a display of ancient domestic items that will bring you back in time!

You can find more information about the museum on their website .

16. Stay at a luxury hotel

Positano is not only a popular destination, it is a luxury one. With so many celebrities coming into town every year, Positano has developed some of the most prestigious hotels on the Italian coast, famous for their incredible views, fantastic food and beautiful interior design. Spending a night or two at a luxury hotel in Positano is an incredible experience you won’t forget.

Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Positano:

Le Sirenuse

Hotel Marincanto

Hotel Villa Franca

Il San Pietro di Positano

Hotel Palazzo Murat

Hotel Punta Regina

Hotel Le Sirenuse Positano le soir

17. Rent a boat

The best way to discover the Amalfi Coast is by the sea! While you can take a taxi boat to go from town to town, renting a private boat will allow you to discover the area at your own pace! And stop at any cute beach you find on the way. Also, one of the best places to admire the beauty of Positano is from the sea, so a boat trip is a must when visiting the area! Grab a few snack and a bottle of wine and get ready to spend a magical afternoon. The sunset is also an amazing time to be on a boat because, even though you can’t admire the sun itself since it sets behind the hill, the whole place is bathed in pink and orange hues.

Rent a boat in Positano!

18. go on a wine tour at a local winery.

Not many people know that on the Amalfi Coast, on top of delicious limoncello, there are also excellent local wines. There are three different areas where the wine is produced: Furore, Ravello and Tramonti. Going on a wine tour will make you discover even better the local culture and all its flavours! You can check some of the best vineyards right here or have a look at amazing wine tours right below!

Wine tours in Positano and the Amalfi Coast:

19. go on a day trip.

Positano is located in an amazing area in Italy. From there, you can discover the picturesque and beautiful towns and villages of the Amalfi Coast: Sorrento, Praiano, Amalfi, Ravello, Vietri sul Mare, Salerno at the very end of the coast… And incredible places along the coast such as the Conca dei Marini or Furore.

Amalfi

You can also visit the nearby islands. Li Galli, three tiny islands southwest of Positano, also called the Islands of the Sirens or Le Sirenuse in Italian, are privately owned islands but you can admire them on a boat trip. According to the legend, the islands were once home to sirens, and if you listen closely, you might still hear their call…

Then there is the island of Capri, well-known for its impressive rocks coming out of the water, where you can spend the day relaxing on the beach and shop at its luxury boutiques. Further away closer to Naples is the island of Ischia, famous for its breathtaking sceneries and natural springs.

Rocher à Capri, Côte Amalfitaine

About an hour away by car from Positano is also the archaeological site of Pompeii, where you can walk through the remains of ancient Roman villas. While the eruption of the Vesuvius in 79 A.D. destroyed the town at that time, its ashes preserved its remains quite well and this is why we know so much about the place and its civilization today!

The Vesuvius is inactive today and can be visited with a guide. I did the tour many years ago and I still remember being impressed by the smoke that is still coming out from several places in the crater!

Finally, you can go on a day trip to Napoli. It is easily accessible by car, by bus or even by train from the town of Salerno!

Day trip ideas from Positano:

20. follow a ceramics workshop.

Ceramics are an old tradition on the Amalfi Coast. When walking around Positano, you will most likely notice ceramics shops, but also find that ceramics are used a bit of everywhere in the streets! Whether it is for a street number, a store sign, benches, or simply a decoration on the wall, ceramics are all around Positano.

Numéro de rue en céramique

To learn about the history of this traditional art and how to paint ceramics or even make your own, you can follow this ceramics workshop given by Berenice and her daughter Giovanna!

That was my list of the top 20 things to do in Positano! Did you like it? Let me know in the comments if you did any of the activities above and if you enjoyed your stay! And if you have any activity to add to this list, I would love to know about it ☺️

Don’t forget to have a look at my article with 25 stunning pictures of Positano to travel immediately!

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20 amazing things to do in Positano

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The Republic of Rose

A California-based travel and lifestyle blog

15 Things You Can’t Miss in Positano, Italy

15 Things You Can't Miss in Positano, Italy

Positano is one of the most picturesque places in Italy!  Its beauty is known around the world and it’s one of the top destinations on the Amalfi Coast.  A colorful village perched on a cliff, Positano looks over the sparkling sea and makes you feel as if you’ve stepped straight into a postcard for “La Dolce Vita.”

Known for its winding cobblestone streets, beautiful views, beach clubs dotted with colorful umbrellas and delicious restaurants, Positano is a must visit destination on the Amalfi Coast.

Here are 15 things to do in Positano, Italy! 

How to Get to Positano, Italy | Ferry

How to Get To Positano

Getting to Positano takes a little bit of effort but it’s absolutely worth it .

The closet airport is Naples International Airport which is about an 1 hour and 20 minutes drive from Positano.  There are a few ways to reach Positano once you arrive in Naples:

Car: You could rent a car and drive the 80 minutes to Positano but note that the roads are quite narrow and windy and can be intimidating for tourists.  Plus parking in Positano can be tricky so check with your hotel if parking is included!

Private Car Transfer: This is definitely the most stress-free way to get to Positano but it can also be quite costly (you’re probably looking at around €100 or more).

Ferry: During peak season, ferries run frequently to Positano from Naples, Sorrento, Salerno, Capri, Ischia and Amalfi.

Train & Bus: There is no direct train to Positano but you could take the train from Naples to Sorrento or Salerno and take the local SITA bus to Positano from there.  This is one of the most cost effective modes of transportation and the journey will about 2 hours.

15 Things You Can't Miss in Positano, Italy

When to Visit Positano

Positano’s shops, restaurants and hotels usually begin to open for the season in mid-April.  Spring time is when the hills will be green, the flowers will be blooming and the weather begins to warm up.

April through June is considered the shoulder season with prices generally lower than peak season and the crowds not yet in full force.  

July and August are the Amalfi Coast’s peak season with plenty of tourists and boats arriving.  The weather will be hot and perfect for swimming in the sea and enjoying the beach clubs — but the hotel prices will be highest at this time.

September and October are also shoulder season months with the temperatures cooling down and the crowds dissipating. And by mid-October to November, businesses will begin to close for the winter months.

I visited the Amalfi Coast in late June and found the weather to be perfect; flowers were blooming in the lush hillsides and the sea was a perfect refreshing temperature.  Plus, I found only a few areas to be crowded but was still able to find plenty of beach space to myself!

Positano, Italy: The 15 Best Things to Do

Things to do in Positano

Looking for the best things to do in Positano?  I’ve rounded up a list of all the must sees in Positano as well as the best day trips in the area that you won’t want to miss!

What to See in Positano | Beach Clubs

1. Spend the day at a Beach Club

One of the best things to do in Positano is hit the beach!  While there is a public section of the main beach where you can lay down a towel, spending the day at one of the famous beach clubs is a must. 

The beach clubs are known for their picture perfect colorful umbrellas and loungers.  Plus, there’s nothing better than having a chill glass of rose on the beach on a hot summer day!

Wondering which beach club to visit?  Check out La Scogliera on Positano Spiaggia (the town’s main beach) as they’re known for their unique position on the rocks overlooking the sea.

Top Things to do in Positano | Fornillo Beach

2. Head to Fornillo Beach

Set away from the main town, Positano’s second largest beach is reachable on foot but is often less crowded.  Spiaggia Fornillo is picturesque with a few beach clubs dotted along the coast.  Whether you want to spend the day at the beach or just go for a walk, it’s worth a visit to take in the views and see another side of Positano!

The Best Things to Do in Positano, Italy

3. Stroll the Charming Streets

Known for its charming cobblestone streets, the best way to explore Positano is on foot.  Filled with bustling restaurants, souvenir shops and art galleries, there is plenty to explore around town.

To avoid the crowds, take an early morning stroll and be the first to wander into the shops or cafes as they are opening for the day.

Best Things to Do in Positano, Italy

4. Stay at a Luxury Hotel

One of the most well-known hotels in Positano is Le Sirenuse . This family run hotel is located in the heart of Positano and is known for its lavish amenities, well appointed rooms, beautiful swimming pool and, of course, the gorgeous views overlooking the sea and maze of colorful buildings in Positano.

Whether you’re honeymooning or just want to treat yourself, staying at one of Positano’s luxury hotels is a bucket list experience!

Best Things to Do in Positano | Drinks at Franco's Bar in Positano, Italy

5. Sunset Drinks at Franco’s Bar

If you’re not a guest of the famous Le Sirenuse hotel, don’t worry, you can still enjoy that world famous view over Positano!  Le Sirenuse is home to Franco’s Bar, an al fresco cocktail bar open to the public. 

Sipping on an artisanal cocktail while watching the sun set over Positano was one of my favorite memories from Positano!

The Best Things to Do in Positano, Italy | Church of St Maria Assunta

6. Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta

An icon of the city, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta is one thing you can’t miss while in Positano.  With its beautifully tiled dome, the church is magnificent from any viewpoint.  Whether you’re coming in from sea or looking down at from your hotel, it’s absolutely striking!

With its restoration in the 18th century, the ornate white and gold interior features Byzantine pieces and is worth a visit inside if you have the time.

places to visit in positano italy

7. Try the Amalfi Coast’s Lemon Products

The Amalfi Coast is known for its particular variety of lemons (called sfusato amalfitano) that thrive in the region’s climate.  In Positano, you’ll notice lemons and lemon products are everywhere!

From lemon sorbet to limoncello (an Italian lemon liquor) to lemon candies, there are tons of lemon flavored treats for you to try.  Or you could shop for lemon scented perfumes, soaps or candles if you want to take a piece of Positano home with you.

Music on the Rocks in Positano

8. Go Clubbing at Music on the Rocks

Carved into Positano’s rocky coastline, Music on the Rocks is one of the most unique night club locations I’ve ever been to!  A Positano staple for over 40 years, this club has an upscale vibe with fun, energetic music.  It makes for the perfect spot to dance the night away after a warm summer day in Positano!

Best Things to Do in Positano | Rent a Scooter

9. Rent a Scooter

While the town of Positano is walkable, renting a scooter or car is necessary for exploring beyond the town.  Scooters can be a great way to get around the narrow and winding roads along the Amalfi Coast.

Day tripping to the nearby beaches or towns is a must to get the full Amalfi Coast experience.  Plus, scooting around on a Vespa is the best way to explore in true Italian fashion!

Top Things to Do in Positano, Italy | Beach at Fiordo di Furore

10. Swim at Fiordo di Furore 

Fiordo di Furore is an inlet between the cliffs with turquoise water from the sea lapping up onto a tiny beach.  Above the beach is a bridge where you can take in the views below.  This beach is popular with cliff jumpers and also hosts a high diving world championship!

About 20 minutes from Positano, Fiordo di Furore is easily reached by scooter but be aware that only street parking along the highway is available so public transportation might be your best bet. Also, locals and tourists alike flock to this dreamy little beach during the summer so make sure to go early if you want to secure a spot!

15 Things to Do In Positano | Grotta dello Smeraldo

11. Visit Grotta dello Smeraldo

Just a couple of minutes from Fiordo di Furore is the Grotto dello Smeraldo (or “Emerald Grotto”).  This small cave is home to stalagmites and stalactites as well as a light under the water making a sparkling emerald effect.  Visitors can take a boat ride around the cave for just €5 per person.  While I probably wouldn’t go out of my way to visit, it was a fun stop along our route and the theatrics of our tour guide were a highlight!

15 Things You Must Do in Positano, Italy | Spend a Day on a Boat

12. Charter a Boat for the Day

Spending the day on a boat is truly one of the best ways to enjoy the stunning coastline of Positano and beyond.  Whether you charter a boat for the day to explore hidden coves on your own or hop on a guided tour boat for sunset, you won’t want to miss getting out on the water.

Top Things to Do in Positano | Day Trip To Capri

13. Day Trip to Capri

Another must visit destination on the Amalfi Coast is the island of Capri.  With its beautiful beaches, rolling hillsides and rock formations that jut out of the turquoise waters, Capri is a place of stunning natural beauty.  The island is also known for its glamour with luxury hotels and upscale shopping boutiques.

During the summer, ferries from Positano to Capri run daily and take just 20 – 40 minutes (depending on which ferry you choose).

→ Read Next: Capri 1 Day Itinerary: How to Spend One Fabulous Day in Capri, Italy

Top Things to Do in Positano | Day Trip To Procida

14. Day Trip to Ischia + Procida

Located in the Bay of Naples, the volcanic islands of Ischia and Procida are beautiful yet not quite as busy as some of the more touristy stops on the Amalfi Coast.

→ Read Next: 1 Day Itinerary for Ischia

Ischia is known for its beautiful beaches, thermal spa waters and incredible cuisine.  Neighboring Procida is quite a bit smaller but is packed with charm and beauty.  It’s known for its colorful fishing villages and scenic viewpoints.

→ Read Next: How to Spend One Day in Procida

During the peak season, ferries depart from Positano to Ischia daily.  The journey to Ischia takes about 1 hour 50 minutes and from Ischia to Procida is just 15 minutes.  While the journey is quite a bit farther, I think it’s absolutely worth the trip if you have the time!

Top Things to Do in Positano | Day Trip To Amalfi

15. Day Trip to Ravello + Amalfi

The small town of Amalfi is known for its prime position on the coastline, lovely beaches, charming piazza and impressive cathedral.  It’s about 30 minutes’ drive from Positano or you can hop on a ferry directly from Positano to Amalfi which takes just about 20 minutes!

And, just 15 minutes up the hill from Amalfi is the charming medieval town of Ravello.  This is an absolute must visit on your Amalfi coast trip!  Ravello is known for its lush terraced gardens, historic villas and jaw-dropping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

→ Read Next: How to Spend One Day in Ravello

Positano, Italy: The Best Hotels

Where to Stay in Positano / Best Hotels

Positano is perched on a hillside so you’ll find that most hotels in town have their own unique vantage points!  And from luxury to budget, there are quite a few lodging options throughout town.  Here are some of the best hotel options in Positano:

  • Le Sirenuse
  • Hotel Poseidon
  • Il San Pietro di Positano
  • Hotel Villa Franca
  • Hotel Marincanto
  • Casa Buonocore
  • Hotel Royal Prisco
  • Petrea Lifestyle Suites
  • Villa Yiara
  • Villa Celentano

The Best Things to Do in Positano | Spend the Day on a Boat

Things to Know Before Visiting Positano

  • During the peak months, Positano can be quite busy with tourists. Especially during the daytime when day-trippers arrive on tour buses around mid-morning. To avoid the crowds, stay overnight and enjoy Positano early in the morning before the throngs of tourists arrive! Or, try visiting in the shoulder seasons when the town is less busy.
  • Similarly, make sure to book reservations in advance at hotels and restaurants as they can get booked up quickly in peak season.
  • Lastly, Positano is literally built onto a hillside so be aware that the streets are narrow, winding and made of cobblestone. Be sure to pack plenty of comfortable shoes for walking around! And, depending on where you’re lodging is located, you may have to carry your suitcase up and down quite a few stairs. Just something to keep in mind as you are packing!

Best Things to Do in Positano, Italy

What to Pack for Positano

When packing for Positano, keep in mind that you’ll want to bring some comfortable shoes for walking around as well as everything you need to spend some time at the beach like swimsuits, sunglasses, a sun hat and a tote bag. Also, Positano can get very hot during the day but cool down quite a bit at night so make sure to pack layers! Plenty of sundresses and some light cardigans or a wrap would be perfect.

What to See in Positano | Beach Clubs

Have you been to Positano? Let me know what your favorite thing to do in Positano is in the comments!

One week itinerary for the amalfi coast, reader interactions.

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05/20/2023 at 6:38 pm

Yes i have and LOVED it! I stayed at le sirenuse and can’t say enough how gorgeous it was! When we arrived we had dinner in the dining room ( no electric lights! Candelabras only) and there was a lightening storm, the wall of windows looking over the sea with the candles and lightening storm was soooo romantic! And I attended an outdoor concert in i think Ravello, in a beautiful open air pavilion(?) upstairs with walled arches.

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09/20/2023 at 2:43 pm

Omg this sounds so magical! 😍

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The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips

Last Updated on April 7, 2021 by Dana Berez

Table of Contents

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!

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips

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.

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips: Ferry

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!

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips: Where to Stay

Views from our Bed and Breakfast in Fornillo

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!

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips: Getting Around

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.

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips: Food

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!

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips: Food

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)

The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need | Top Positano Travel Tips: Budget

Teresa / Sunday Spritz

Ahhhhhh these pics are so pretty. Also buying those dresses for my upcoming Spain trip RIGHT NOW!

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Aw you are too sweet! I am so glad you enjoyed! You’ll love those dresses 🙂

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I have been telling my husband how much I want to visit Positano, your pictures make me want to go right now! We loved visiting Cinque Terre so much, so I feel like we would like this too! Is there any hiking in the area? You’ve got some great practical info here! Thanks so much!

Thank you so much! There is in fact a hiking trail in Positano called the Path of Gods! I didn’t have enough time to check it out but I heard the views are stunning!

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Just gorgeous. It looks like such a beautiful place. I’m hoping to visit in October, so I’ll have to save all these great tips for then!

I hope you got some more info for your trip! You are going to have a blast!

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Just came across your site and video – super informative – thanks! Just curious to know which month were you in Positano?

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Dana: We are going to Positano in Sept. The Venus B & B is booked our dates ( Sept 14-18). Can you recommend another nice place to stay. We are couple that pretty much LIKES everything you show to do on your You Tube. ( WE LOVE COFFEE!) Thanks, Karen.

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Hey Dana-Watched various vlogs and came across yours. Love the clarity with how you explain, followed by pictures, captions, even a written trancript. Will now start following you over insta. Pls give a great detail(as much possible) on two things: 1. Renting a private boatWhat time should I rent- I want cliff view of Positano from the water but when sun is soft/not harsh. What route to keep that view. Reasonably good looking boat for 2-private-cost? Company you suggest. Can I book online.

2. When is the light best-sunrise or sunset?depending on mountain

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Hi Dana, Great article and recommendations. I just wondered if you know this YT channel https://www.youtube.com/@NickiPositano

Nicki Positano, Positano Diaries. She and Carlo have an excellent channel.. “what’s life really life on the Amalfi Coast”.

I am yearning to visit Positano and then would never want to leave!

Best regards!

Yes! Nicki and Carlo are friends of mine. Love their channel!! Have you watched my videos on YouTube?

Leave a Reply Cancel Comment

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20 awesome things to do in positano | a perfect guide to positano.

When summer approaches, it is impossible to think about going on holiday to Italy. Positano is the best location for a dreamy vacation in Italy in style. If you are already organising an incredible trip, you will be pleased to go through the best things to do in Positano, Italy .

While back when still living in Italy, I often visited Positano off-season. The little picturesque town on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast is quite busy during summer but not less gorgeous. Away from the classic activities, Positano is perfect for spending some time away from the crowded cities and staying uphill with a sea view. You will be only surrounded by nature, lemon groves and lovely scenery.

The town of Positano lay on a rock that goes directly into the blue Mediterranean sea. But, of course, the most famous beach is the popular backdrop photo spot of the Amalfi Coast . So take your bag, and let’s explore Positano .

Positano view from the coast

How to get to Positano

There are many ways to reach Positano from Naples , the main city close to the Amalfi Coast . From public transport options to private solutions, Positano is easy to get. However, many people prefer to arrive in Rome to reach the Amalfi Coast, ignoring Naples being the nearest airport.

Instead, you can just go walking inside the city, as there are no streets allowed for cars and scooters, so you can’t rely on public transport or taxis.

Most tourists to the Amalfi Coast fly into Naples or go from Rome if they are already in Italy. Naples is the closest airport to Positano; instead, from Rome , you need about 3 to 4 hours to reach Positano by car after your flight. Therefore, we suggest spending at least two days in Naples and then making your way to Positano.

Although there is no direct train to Positano and the Amalfi Coast , you can take a local train, “Circumvesuviana”, from Napoli Centrale (Piazza Garibaldi); the train ride takes about 1 hour to reach Sorrento. Outside the station, there is the Sita Bus, which can take you everywhere on the coast.

The Sita Bus covers the whole area from Sorrento to Salerno, touching little hamlets, and passing by Positano and Sorrento. The bus ride from Sorrento to Positano takes around 45 minutes and costs 3,60 euros. You can purchase the ticket on the spot, and in summer, expect to queue to get on board. The ride is comfortable and quite fast, showing you the gorgeous panorama.

Things to do in Positano, incredible view of the colorful houses

Other ways to get around the Amalfi Coast

CAR | If you visit the Amalfi Coast in winter, rent a car to drive through one of the gorgeous Italian road trips . Of course, you need to be an experienced driver to go through the curves of the high cliffs, but we can assure you that the scenery is unbelievable. In high season the car is not ideal, because it will be difficult to park the car, and the parking spaces charge about 5 to 10 euros per hour to park near the walkable area. Compare Car Rental Prices.

FERRY | Another incredible option is to reach Positano from Naples or Sorrento by ferry . The boat takes about 2 hours from Naples Mergellina and 50 minutes from Sorrento. The route operates only in the high season, and you can purchase the tickets at the pop-up stand. Or book it in advance here!

PRIVATE TRANSFER | Among all the options, the private transfer might be worth it. Spending holidays in Positano you will understand that it is very pricey and getting a fast, reliable and comfortable transport directly from the airport is well paid. For about 30€ you can share a taxi from Naples airport , or take it on your own for 60€.

Best Tours from Naples to Positano

We have selected a few tours that will take you to discover Positano from Naples. The main city in southern Italy is ideal to use as a hub and travel from. Naples is well connected with Rome and Florence by train and can offer you incredible day trips to the Amalfi Coast and the beautiful islands of Capri , Ischia and Procida.

Check the best tours from Naples to Positano selected by us:

Best time to visit Positano

The best time to visit Positano is in spring, from April to June. The temperatures in Positano in spring are pleasant and nature is in full bloom. Even though spending April in Positano is not jet warm enough to enjoy the beach, the fresh Mediterranean temperature will help you to relax and enjoy the landscape. The high season in Positano is July and August, with temperatures hotter than the rest of the year and many tourists around. Autumn is pleasant too on the Amalfi Coast . Instead, thinking about an off-season trip to Italy , winter on the Amalfi Coast can give you some sunny weekends and is definitely good to afford Positano on a budget. However, winter in Naples means a lot of rain, so be prepared.

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This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links ( read our Cookie Policy ), and useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you . Click on it will help us run this website for you, for FREE, funding our project, and continuing to travel informing curious explorers.

Do I need travel Insurance visiting Positano ?

Don’t travel anywhere without travel insurance, no matter your journey. We have learned that at our expense while travelling from Dubrovnik to Hvar, our ferry was cancelled because of rough sea weather. Even though Italy is safe , the pandemic taught many people that things might go wrong everywhere in the world, and insurance is frequently the only option to mitigate any problems with the least cost or stress to you.

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A f antastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link .

SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensi ve travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads .

Positano famous beach

20 Incredible things to do in Positano, Italy

Visit the church of santa maria assunta, positano, hop on a boat and visit capri, explore the grottos, rent a vespa.

  • Visit Positano Art Gallery

Grab an aperitivo

Get tan on the beach and swim in the sea.

  • Go shopping

Buy handmade custom sandals

  • Hike The Path of God 

Sip Limoncello

  • Take a cooking class
  • Kayak around the coast 
  • Find Fiordo di Furore
  • HIke to Montepertuso
  • Dance the night away at the music on the rocks
  • Go for a date night around Positano
  • Admire the beautiful view
  • Day trip to Amalfi
  • Explore hidden inlets

Positano things to do and places to see

Get lost in the narrow streets.

Walking down the lemon groves and alleys of Positano is a dream. The little picturesque town, the symbol of the “Sweet life”, is an ideal place that gives you pleasure. The narrow streets are walkable and traffic-free. The cobblestone alleys will take you from the town’s entry point to the beach. Despite it being small you will take a long time, stopping at every corner and in every shop. It is a maze of streets filled with boutiques selling goodies and handcrafted products. Every turn of Positano reveals a marvellous side of the village.

READ ALSO | Positano Instagram Spots

The Church of Santa Maria is the main sight of Positano, and you can easily spot the architecture from every picture online nowadays. The “Chiesa”, as Italian says , is a catholic church located in the centre of Positano, between the beach and the narrow alleys. You have to pass lemon groves and wisteria passage before arriving at the square. It is free to enter the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and we highly suggest that you do. INFO | Santa Maria Church is open from 8 am to 12 pm and daily from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Visit Positano Art Galleries

Walking through Positano is impossible to notice how many galleries are in such a small place. However, among the many things to do in Positano, visiting an Art Gallery is unmissable, especially if you love art.

Everything is for every taste, from high-end galleries to cute little ones. 

READ ALSO | Positano or Sorrento | Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

Snap the best photos in Positano

We love photography, and you can see it while exploring Italy with us through our guides. Positano is inspiring, and we spent so much time taking pictures while exploring the little town. There are many well-known places such as the beach, the square of the church, the seaside walk along with the best restaurants, and a few staircases. However, it is a picture-perfect place and even walking from the top, you will have the whole town under your feet.

These are just a few suggestions, but if you want to live the dream, live it big, book your stay or reserve a seat at the restaurant at the Hotel Marincanto and La Sirenuse . You can have the best view of Positano from these two spots and snap some epic shots.

Toti admiring the gorgeous view of Positano

Eat fried fish in the typical cuoppo

You won’t find this in many guides, but we are local and want you to have the best experience in Positano. The cuoppo is a cone-shaped mix of fried seafood. Very typical in southern Italy , eating a cuoppo on the seaside is unmissable among the best things to do in Positano.

Many restaurants in Positano are worth it, but they are pricey, and if you stay in town just a day, go local or go big. We decided to stick with the local traditions, and a cuoppo can give you a boost of energy. The cuppo can be even without seafood, head to Capricci , just behind the beach.

We will talk more about the best day trips from Positano later in this post, but it is worth knowing that you can easily rent a boat on your own and visit Capri. If you are not keen to take the risk of renting a boat, enjoy one of the many day trips out to Capri Island .

Book Here your tour to Capri in advance to avoid surprises, as there is high demand in the high season. There are many options available; among the private tours, there is also a ferry option; check the daily service schedule . The ticket costs about 22,50€ each way. However, due to the high costs, we suggest you get the option of a local tour that can take you to the blue grotto, the main square, and you will have a guide all time with you.

There are many beautiful inlets nearby Positano; some are caves reachable just by boat. Check out this incredible 2-hour private tour from Positano , which will take you exploring hidden gems such as the Emerald Grotto, the Africana Grotto and other spots.

BOOK YOUR GROTTO’S TOUR

On a vintage Vespa, follow the curves of the Amalfi Coast. Discover the spectacular landscape while driving a vintage Vespa in pure Italian style. Then, riding from Positano via Ravello to reach Amalfi and the charming Atrani, you will visit the whole Amalfi Coast and discover the true soul of this land.

It is not easy to drive a Vespa through the curvy, narrow roads, with many high points that can scare you off. However, it is a necessary activity to add to the list of things to do in Positano and unmissable while exploring the Amalfi Coast .

Stop by the beautiful terraces, overlook the sea, the little town and marvellous views. Enjoy a coffee break under lemon trees, tasting a local “Delizia al Limone”. Book now your Vespa in Positano .

Narrow roads on the amalfi coast - Colourful streets through the villages on the high cliffs of Amalfi Coast. One of the best things to do in Positano is to drive all the way to Amalfi.

Drive through the high cliffs and narrow roads

When back in Italy, we love driving, and the roads of the Amalfi Coast are a pleasure. You can rent a car at Capodichino Airport in Naples and make your way to Positano. After that, you have to go on the highway, which is easy to drive through and follow the signs to the Amalfi Coast. It is straightforward and impossible to get lost. The landscape of the Amalfi Coast will let you stop at every terrace available, shop by the vendors on the side of the streets and maybe reach your destination with a couple of hours of “pleased” delay.

Typical Panuozzo From Gragnano

The Aperitivo is one of the most pleasant times of the day for Italians, and you can follow the steps and put yourself in the shoes of a local experiencing it.

Some of our friends here in London might say that the Aperitif in Italy is like the tea time in Uk, but an alcoholic version. You can’t miss sitting outdoors and sipping a limoncello, a spritz, or a typical “Tassoni”. Ask the waiter for a tassoni and leave a comment below.

Best things to do in Positano, Italy

Positano best view from the beach

Positano’s beach is clean, stunning and naturally located at the centre of the scenic landscape ! The best thing to do in Positano is to spend at least half a day sunbathing or swimming. The town is in a kind of “bay” that makes fewer waves and has a calm sea.

You have many options for staying on the beaches of the Amalfi Coast . There is the typical Italian lido offering beach chairs, sunbeds and umbrellas. This option can be pricey, but staying in Positano for a day, you should account for a bit of excess.

Take your beach towel or chair and stay in the free area by the deck for a cheaper option. Spending just a few hours on the beach, saving some bucks on comfy sunbeds and investing in delicious food or a tour.

Shopping in Positano

This is Alessia’s favourite part; talking about shopping, I had to drag her away from the cute boutiques. Often associated with the white colour, the local shops feature many dresses, hats, linen products, pants and tops in white, blue or summer colours. 

Not only dresses but also souvenirs. Positano is well known for its lemon production. While roaming around the shops, you will see everything from lemon-scented perfumes, candles, candy, soap, spry and much more all around the lemon colour and flavour.

Take the best souvenirs from Italy in Positano as they are a unique and perfect present for friends and family.

Shops in Positano

We have missed a very unique product you should look for in Positano. Local handmade shops are a popular attraction in town. Roam around the small shops through the narrow alleys which sell leather products and specially custom-made sandals. These are renowned worldwide, with fashion artists opening their boutiques just for a few hours during the day and serving famous people getting off the boats for custom-made products.

best gelato in rome | Roma bucket list

Taste the best gelato in Sorrento

Positano has many gelato shops worth visiting, but the best is in Sorrento. We have been to the Amalfi Coast many times, and we always end up at Primavera Gelateria, a famous and popular shop on the main shopping road of Sorrento.

Gelato is a must-do experience in Italy in summer , and you can’t miss exploring all the gelateria while there. Taste new flavours and try to mix them up. We love fruity flavours (lemon is the local delicates) but usually have these during the day and switch for Nutella, nuts, and chocolate flavours for another ice cream after dinner. What’s your favourite ice cream flavour in Positano?

Granita al Limone from Positano Italy

Eat a lemon granita

While entering the cute town of Positano from the main road, you will have an old man with a typical Neapolitan “carretto” stand with wheels.

As far as I can remember, I have seen that man since I was a little kid, always getting a granita. Granita is a frozen glass made mainly through freshly squeezed lemon on ice flakes.

Having a “granita” is on top of our things to do in Positano every time we visit the spot. The drink is so refreshing, and the lemon is squeezed by locals taking the fruit directly from the tree. There is another version, but it is soft and similar to gelato. Next is the sorbet, which is nice too, and you must try it. Usually, Italians eat it as dessert at the end of lunches.

Flavors from Positano, typical lemons souvenirs from Positano

Even living in London, I can’t miss the limoncello time. This Italian liquor is a ritual every Italian has, especially from southern Italy. Limoncello is an alcoholic liquor that is finely prepared by steeping lemon peels in grain alcohol and fermenting it for six to eight weeks. Limoncello has a 40% alcohol as a minimum, which can be higher or less depending on the concentration of sugar, syrup and fermentation.

Usually, you drink limoncello after lunch or dinner, but never before driving. The taste is so natural that it is for everyone. However, it is strong and used a lot as a digestivo “digestive”. The limoncello is served in a shot cup and has a dense variation called “crema di limoncello, ” a cream made in the same way.

There are many other local liquors that you can try. While at the restaurant or bar, ask for a nocillo, fragolino, meloncello, liquirizia. In addition, there are many different variations, changing by the local culture.

Take a cooking class in Positano

Discover the secrets behind Mediterranean cuisine. Bring home a Sorrento treasure in the shape of new Italian cooking abilities and surprise your family and friends. Enjoy a 3-hour cooking lesson, learning from experienced chefs. Understand the ingredients and how to pick it fresh from a local market.

Learn how to cook classic Amalfi Coast meals from the teacher, then settle down and enjoy the meal you have prepared with a glass of local wine, limoncello, or a soft drink. Book your cooking class lesson .

Top activities to do in Positano

Cute Positano houses

Hike The Path of Gods

The Path of the Gods, or “ Sentiero Degli Dei ” in Italian, is a breathtaking 4 hours hike on the Amalfi Coast, starting in Agerola and terminating in Nocelle, above Positano.

The route spans over 5 miles and is an easy trail between little climbs and walks through lemon groves and natural terraces.

The view from the top of the hills is spectacular, opening up the whole coastline and the island of Capri. The Path of Gods is perfect for beginners, but you will enjoy it even more on a guided walking tour with a local guide. Check out the itinerary and availability .

Hike to Montepertuso

Opening this guide on the best things to do in Positano, we said this location is for everyone. We bet everything you never thought that Positano could offer many hiking trails. Montepertuso Hike features a hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast . You can reach the town on top of the hills easily by bus, which is the best way and make your way down for an easy hike or the way around.

Montepertuso is at the top of Positano, and from there, you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the sea, the turns of the Amalfi Coast, and the beauty of the coloured houses of Positano. It is a local walk which passes by many private properties, and you might experience the generous locals.

Montepertuso is a pin on the Positano bucket list , away from the glamorous beaches and shops and seen as a wild experience. Hiking in Positano is very easy and features many other trails along the way.

Kayak around the coast

Kayak in Positano allows you to explore the Amalfi Coast differently and uniquely. Make it on your way, or follow an experienced local guide who will show you hidden beaches and stop by stunning spots. Kayaking is a must-do activity in Positano. Check out some tours, and book them in advance . It tends to be busy from May to September, with no spots available.

Also Read: Kayaking in Italy – Top Destinations to visit

Go for a date night around Positano | Positano at night

The perfect way to make Positano romantic even more is going on a fine dining experience. There are many restaurants with sea view worth a visit, from the classic Chez Black on the beach to the stunning L’incanto terrace.

Take your other half to a r omantic dinner in Positano and enjoy the perfect vacation in Italy . Positano is definitely one of the most romantic cities in Italy and you can’t miss organising something special.

Dance at the Music on the rocks | What to do in Positano at night

The Music on the rock is a legendary club on the beach shoreline of Positano . Enjoy a beautiful night out in Positano, eat at one of the many fine restaurants with sea view, walk along the beach and reach the nightclub.

Many famous people arrive by boat in Positano just to have fun at the Music on the rock. The entrance is by the selection, so dress smart and enjoy the venue. The Music on the Rock club in Positano is carved in the rock, making the dance floor in a cave.

Colorful houses of Positano, Bimba admiring the landscape

Admire the gorgeous view

The serene azure Mediterranean Sea is visible from this beachfront paradise. Positano is a dream refuge for people looking for a romantic getaway in Italy , with pastel-coloured cliffside villas, stunning hiking paths, infinity pools overlooking the sea and photogenic alleys and stairs covered in colourful flowers. This unique, dramatic beauty of southern Italy is a town full of quaint cafés, feisty pubs, artisanal businesses, wisteria trees, and easygoing residents. We have given you many reasons to sit on your chair admiring this beauty.

The view of the cliffs of Positano - This frame it's Furore an insanely beautiful seashore in the Amalfi Coast

Explore secret inlets

At the end of our guide to Positano things to do, we couldn’t miss another local suggestion. On the Amalfi Coast and not far from Positano, many hidden inlets are carved through the rocks and little beaches to discover. Unfortunately, it is impossible to access many of them by road or walking paths.

The best way to discover new inlets is by renting a boat and being curious. Locals know hidden beaches that are away from the crowds and give you different vibes. In winter , many parts got closed because of the rocks falling and becoming harmful to people, so expect that many of them are unreachable. If you rent a boat, you might not enjoy the soil, and the beach but can still swim in the blue turquoise water.

We don’t want to talk to you more about inlets, but one of the most lovely places to discover is Nerano, the gem of Positano and very famous among locals. Also, keep an eye on the Ieranto Bay and Bagni della Regina Giovanna (Queen Joanne beach), a fantastic spot to dive and have fun with friends. Check out the tour that will take you there.

The staircase that will take you to Erchie

Explore the Bay of Ieranto by boat

Go on a day tour from Sorrento to Positano, sailing along the Amalfi Coast on board a typical Gozzo and passing by the beautiful Bay of Ieranto.

The trip is a beautiful moment where you will appreciate the Amalfi Coast in all its beauty. The tour will explain some fun facts about this part of Italy, and it is perfect for a summer vacation . Explore the little towns of Positano and Amalfi, uncover the Emerald Grotto, the Bagni della Regina Giovanna, and stop by the inlets for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing spotting some hidden private beaches.

Day trips from Positano

Faraglioni of Capri one of the most famous landmark in Italy

From Positano to Capri

Capri is one of our favourite locations, and there’s so much to see and do there. It’s a simple day trip from Sorrento or Positano and is known for its beauty, history, and outstanding cuisine. From April to October, ferries run about four times a day, every day, from Positano to Capri. The ride takes around 30 minutes but is often crowded.

Capri is well known to be a pricey place, but none less than Positano. Enjoy the cobbled lanes of the town, get lost in the narrow streets and wander around the fashionable boutiques. The main square, “Piazzetta”, is the famous spot of Capri, there you can take many tours around the island that will let you discover the magnificent natural beauty. We suggest you take a tour of the Blue Grotto, the Faraglioni, and boat trips. Reserve your tours in advance , as the island is often crowded since April. Book it here! Also, consider some of the best tours in Capri selected for you.

From Positano to Amalfi

Another great location to visit on the Amalfi Coast is, of course, the city of Amalfi. The powerful seaside town was the centre of the Mediterranean area in ancient times, and today it is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy .

You can reach Amalfi from Positano by public transport in less than half an hour. Expect a longer ride in the high season as the one-lane (both directions) road is often busy. The bus gets very crowded regardless of the season, and the driver can refuse to board for safety reasons ( Check the timetable ). The ticket costs only 1,50 euro and can be purchased at the stand before boarding or the “Tabaccheria” small shops like the typical “off-licence” in the UK.

Enjoy a local tour and book it in advance to avoid surprises and make your trip happen without stress. Alternatively, go for a ferry ride from the port of Positano . The half-an-hour ride will show you a different perspective of the Amalfi Coast. The ferry from Positano to Amalfi costs more than the local bus, but it is worth it.

Amalfi Coast cliffs - The best landscape in the world

From Positano to Sorrento

Some visitors spend a day or two in Sorrento before heading to Positano. However, it is a wiser choice in our opinion, as Sorrento has more to offer, and a wider range of accommodation opportunities.

You can either take the bus or a boat to reach Positano from Sorrento . From Piazza Tasso, the main square of Sorrento, reach Marina Piccola, the small harbour. A lift will take you down for €1, or take the stairs for free. You can purchase the ferry tickets on the spot or book them in advance . Mind that from Sorrento departs the ferries to Capri and the whole Amalfi Coast .

pompeii ruins napoli itinerary in 2 days

Discover Pompeii and Herculaneum

We couldn’t miss mentioning a visit to Pompeii on our guide. The ancient Roman ruins are a perfect day trip from Positano . However, we suggest you stay in Sorrento as it is easier to reach the location by taking just one train. If you travel from Naples by train, with the local “Circumvesuviana” , you will pass by Pompeii ruins on an epic ride around the volcano. Pompeii is a Unesco World Heritage Site and is famous among tourists; it is normal to see people queuing under the sun in summer and on popular holidays in Italy . There is an alternative to the ruins of Pompeii, and in our opinion is even more suggestive. Herculaneum ruins are just under the Vesuvius but are less popular. However, the ruins were the first covered by lava and ashes that destroyed the city. There are still excavations that show how life was in ancient times. Herculaneum is less popular than Pompeii, and it is hard to find queues here, but it is more suggestive. Check the entrance tickets to the two sites .

Activities in Positano

Enjoy a full-day cruise.

Take a tour around the Amalfi Coast, sip a drink, and stop for a refreshing dive into the blue turquoise water. 

On a full-day excursion from Positano, admire the coastal vistas of the Sorrentino Peninsula and Capri from the comfort of an exquisite yacht. See the incredible sea caves and rocks, and then spend some time exploring the island at your leisure.

Cross the Tyrrhenian Sea to explore the spectacular sea caverns of the Marvellous Grotto, White Grotto, and Green Grotto. Along the journey, take in the Palaeolithic-era Arco Naturale and the modern Casa Malaparte. Finally, swim and snorkel in the water after passing the Faraglioni rocks and the Punta Carena lighthouse.

Rent A Boat

As we suggested earlier, Positano is an excellent location for renting a boat for the day. The Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most stunning coasts, and you can hop from one beach to another, discovering hidden inlets and unreachable beaches from the main roads.

There is no need to book in advance before you arrive at Positano; you can just go to the main beach and check for the stands. The prices are everything from €150 to €300 per day. Check here!

Italy diving sites are some of the most beautiful in the world, this show the transparent water for clear view

Snorkel Or Scuba Dive

Positano is an excellent location for snorkelling and scuba diving. The beautiful grottos and unexpected caves aligned along the stretch of coast from Sorrento to Amalfi are marvellous. The water is so clear that you don’t need a mask to spoil the underwater world most of the time. Organise your time in Positano with some incredible activities such as snorkelling . 

Board a traditional Amalfitan Gozzo boat for a scenic ride along the Amalfi coast. Admire natural wonders, including the Natural Arch, the Saint Andrew Grotto and Faraglioni Rocks. Swim and snorkel or relax on the shores of secluded beaches. A snorkelling trip will cost you around $90/£80.

Paddleboard Or Kayak in Positano

Summer in Italy means a lot of water activities. While staying in Sorrento, enjoy kayaking around the grottos and bays or paddleboarding at sunrise for a fresh wakeup. There are many rental shops on the beach, and the prices range between €10 to €20 per hour. Walk along the beach to find the best prices.

Check the best beaches in Positano and favourite Instagram Spots on the Amalfi Coast

Top 10 Beaches in Amalfi Coast (with Map)

We wrote an extensive guide about the best beaches on the Amalfi Coast . There are many beautiful sandy beaches along the most marvelled coastline in the world. From the famous Spiaggia Grande of Positano to the less popular Fornillo beach and Arienzo beach.

Below you will find some parts of the shoreline you can’t miss while visiting Positano.

Spiaggia grande

Spiaggia Grande Beach is the main beach in Positano and is the centrepiece of the precious inlet. Often referred to as Marina Grande Beach, or simply Positano beach, it is one of the best on the Amalfi Coast, offering the best background. The picture-perfect Positano Beach is often crowded and is mainly private with a little stretch free. On the side, the harbour is used primarily for boarding ferries and boat tours, and many stands are selling it on the spot.

Arienzo Beach

Arienzo Beach is the picture-perfect Italian dream; the beach extends along a natural curve of the shoreline and is often called the “300 steps” beach. There are 300 steep steps to reach the beach, on a walk down surrounded by natural beauty and marvellous panorama.

This evocative stairway lets you glimpse into some of the most exquisite houses on the Amalfi Coast, passing past Villa Tre Ville, the Villa belonging to Zeffirelli that welcomed and continues to host worldwide celebrities, artists, and renowned actors. Arienzo Beach is reachable by public transport, taking the Sita bus on the route from Sorrento to Positano and vice-versa, and getting off at the bus stop “Arienzo Beach”. Arienzo Beach is a tiny bay that is part public and half private, which gets very busy during the summer months .

Fornillo Beach

The name “Fornillo” is credited to the reign of the Roman Emperor Tiberio. At this time, there was a considerable presence of ovens to make bread, which the emperor himself enjoyed. Fornillo beach is the second largest in Positano , and you can reach it by walking from the Spiaggia Grande for about 15 minutes.

The beach offers many amenities like chairs, sunbeds and umbrellas and a few spots for drinks and snacks. If you join one of the clubs for the day, rent one of the offers, they will give you a free boat ride back and further from Positano included.

Worth to know about Fornillo beach

At the end of the summer in Italy , there is the “Fish Festival,” a local festival dedicated to sea delights, and concludes the high season. The festival’s location is Fornillo Beach , and the occasion is gaining popularity, becoming part of Positano traditions.

Laurito Beach | Hidden gem in Positano

We couldn’t miss talking about hidden gems in Positano, and Laurito beach is still an unknown place on the tourist map. This is because the small and untamed beach is difficult to reach and still pristine and wild. You can either take a boat from the Spiaggia Grande of Positano and reach it by water or through the steep staircase from the main road.

This stretch of coast is called Laurito for the high presence of laurel bushes, “Lauro” in Italian. Like many others, the coastline is divided into private beaches and public ones. However, compared to other hidden inlets, Laurito beach offers many comforts, such as restaurants and beach clubs that will take you on a free ride to Positano, back and further if you use their services during the day.

Bagni della Regina Giovanna

You will never get bored staying in Positano for the summer holidays in Italy ; every day, you can discover new hidden spots like the Bagni della Regina Giovanna.

This is one of the favourites of locals and is perfect for families. The inlet is surrounded by ancient Roman ruins of villas and wild nature. The beach is not like the others, with rocks that make it challenging to reach open water. However, the water is clearer than in other sports because of the stones.

You can get to the Bagni della Regina Giovanna by bus from Sorrento train station. Stop at Capo di Sorrento and follow the signs. The bus ticket costs 1.10 euro, and you can purchase it at the station or in the tabaccheria.

Where to stay in Amalfi Coast

Luxury hotels in positano.

As mentioned, our favourite place to stay in Positano is the Hotel Le Sirenuse , because of the beautiful view, the high-standard features and the location. However, there are many other accommodations in Positano, unless charming and unique.

Hotel Le Sirenuse Positano

The Grand Hotel Le Sirenuse is one of the most prestigious in Positano. The complex features a Michelin-starred restaurant, apartments with the best view over the cute town and coloured houses. Every single accommodation is unique. Enjoy a stay on the beach just a few metres from the facilities, stay in the pool or relax in the Spa.

Affordable places to stay in Positano

Regina margherita, stay in sorrento for the best deals.

Continuing to give you tips on visiting Positano on a budget, it is now time to talk about the accommodation and how to find bargains on the Amalfi Coast . Sorrento is a beautiful city 30 minutes away from Positano. The city is big, offers incredible beaches, boutiques, shops, restaurants, and bars and is lively every day.

Stay in Sorrento and travel to Positano for a day. Use the city as a hub to move around the Amalfi Coast. Discover the best Sorrento Day trips through our guide or get an idea of what to do in Sorrento .

Where to Eat in Positano

  • La Tagliata
  • Caffe Positano
  • Le tre Sorelle

What to pack for a trip to Positano

  • Snorkel mask
  • Beach towel
  • Nice colourful dresses

Tours in Positano we suggest

Q&a things to do in positano, italy, how long stay in positano.

Positano is ideal for a weekend escape in Italy. Spend two days taking long leisurely walks to and from the beach. As it is pricey, you can stay in Sorrento , have fun with a few tours, and spend one day in Positano .

Best time to visit Positano?

Positano boasts lovely Mediterranean weather, which is best appreciated in the summer. While the winters on the Amalfi Coast are mild, we suggest visiting Positano from spring onward.

Italian Trip Abroad

Italian Trip Abroad is a travel couple blog, based in London (UK). We are passionate travellers, and expert writers travelling around the world in the past 7 years hand in hand. We have been off the beaten path so many times that we don't count any more, seen flags we never thought in our life, crossed rivers, sailed to pass overland borders, flying from one side to another of this beautiful planet to discover the hidden gems. We have a deep understanding of travelling and make the best of annual leave. Before travelling full time we were working 9-5 as managers. Our guides provide deep information about the places, how to reach them and what to visit over than the usual landmarks. We are both passionate photographers and travellers. Toti is experienced in landscape photography, trying to get the best lights and composition to increase the experience for the users on our blog. Alessia on the other side is the brain behind our social media exposure. She gained great experience getting Passport and Stamps our Social Media Network to high engagement with loyal following and viral contents.

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Thank you for all the ideas – very helpful in planning my trip!

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22 Best Things to do in Positano

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As the most famous and visited place along the Amalfi coast, there is no shortage of things to do in Positano, Italy. It is located right along the Tyrrhenian sea and is the perfect travel destination for anyone who loves unique architecture, breathtaking views, warm sun, and Italian cuisine.

The village of Positano is full of colourful houses, tiny streets lined with cute shops, delicious restaurants, and beautiful hotels. Beyond its famous views and picturesque buildings, Positano holds many other things to do ranging from viewing the Santa Maria Assunta to relaxing on Spiaggia Grande Beach to wonderful day trips to neighbouring cities.

The beauty and magic of Positano is something you won’t truly realize until you see it for yourself. Without question, Positano is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe, if not the whole world!

Positano is an especially great spot for any type of romantic celebration, be it a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday. However, your visit does not have to be romantic in nature! It is stunning and enjoyable for all regardless of your motivation for visiting. This post covers all the best things to do in Positano to make your visit as amazing as it can be!

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In This Post

Wander the Streets

Walking around Positano and finding hidden alleys, stunning viewpoints and cute shops are one of the best things to do in Positano. In fact, the best way to see Positano is by foot and Positano is actually quite small, therefore you can explore almost all of the village and its beauty in just a few short hours!

There are no set instructions on where you should walk, just go where your eyes take you. You can’t really go wrong wandering the streets of this beautiful Italian village.

While wandering the streets you must take a few moments to take everything in. It’s easy to get caught up in constantly moving to the next beautiful sight but when you see something that catches your eyes just take a moment, snap a few photos and admire the beauty.

This is also the perfect time to find places to take some amazing photos if you are really into photography or are a blogger.

It is also one of the best places to visit on a European girls trip !

  • Walk around the whole village – there is something to see from every angle and height that will blow your mind.
  • Be mindful. People do live here and some of the beautiful buildings are people’s homes, so don’t go exploring in places that are private or have do not enter signs.

Relax on Spiaggia Grande Beach

Positano holds some of the most iconic and beautiful beaches in the world. Heading to the beach and sunbathing amongst all the beauty this village holds is a must and one of the most popular things to do in Positano. The Spiaggia Grande Beach is Positano’s most famous beach with the view of the blue Sea in front of you and the colourful buildings behind it.

At this beach, you can rent a chair for just 10€ to relax in comfort or bring your own towel and layout in the free area of the beach. However, the free area is very small and quite crowded in the summer months. Therefore, renting a chair is encouraged and will make this one of your favourite things to do in Positano.

Positano’s main beach can get quite busy in the summer months. During the peak months of June, July, and August Positano is flooded with tourists and the beach is one of the main places they like to visit. If you are looking for a lovely beach experience without the crowds I suggest you head to Fornillo Spiaggia , which is only a 10-minute walk from Positano.

  • The beach terrain here is extremely hot! Make sure you have good beach shoes so you don’t burn your feet. Since the beach is made from black stones they heat up very quickly and hold heat.
  • There is a tiny area where you can layout for free on this beach – but I highly suggest getting a sunbed for comfort and to enjoy the day to its fullest.

Read More: Top 10 Positano Beaches

Go Shopping

If you love to shop or are looking for the perfect souvenir from your travels, then the Positano shopping area is the place for you. Located right in the center of Positano, there are a bunch of cute little shops and boutiques to wander into and go shopping in – it is easily one of the best things to do in Positano.

Here you will find cute clothing, postcards, bags, and almost anything lemon-scented and flavour you could think of. Lemon is the flavour of Positano and the Amalfi Coast and you can find everything from lemon alcohol to lemon soap to lemon candy! A lemon-based item is a great option for a souvenir or gift to bring back home.

  • Some stores are hidden into the buildings – just peek your head in and make sure it’s a store before entering.
  • If you forgot something for your travels this is a great place to pick it up – or if you forget a beach towel/sunscreen before your beach day.
  • If you are travelling to other cities along the Amalfi Coast I suggest you wait and pick up souvenirs from there, Positano is one of the most expensive cities and you will pay a premium. Here is a list of 8 other beautiful Amalfi Coast Towns .

Hike the Path of The Gods

If you want to see some amazing scenery and one of the best views of Positano then you must hike the Path of The Gods . Whether or not you’re a fan of hiking, the views from this hike will convert even the most negative of hikers.

On the whole hike journey and from the main vantage point, this hike will give you some of the most breathtaking views of the Sealine and the mountains the Amalfi Coast has to offer. Although this hike is hard, the views make it one of the best things to do in Positano.

The hiking path has been carved into the earth over the years, which has made it increasingly easy to follow and navigate. More and more tourists are flocking to this hike as photos are emerging of the magical views it provides. This has resulted in more people seeking their own opportunity to admire the view.

  • The best way to do this hike is to start from Agerola (Bomerano bus stop) and walk towards Nocelle. This offers panoramic views of the coast
  • However, it’s best to ask about buses and the path to take when you arrive. This is because there may be seasonal changes to bus times and routes depending on when you visit
  • The hike takes approximately 3 hours (depending on how often you stop for photos) and is 4.8 miles. If you have limited time in Positano make sure you budget your time wisely!

Take a Day Trip

One of the best parts of Positano and the Amalfi Coast is the relative closeness of all the other villages along with it. As a result, making a day trip to one of the neighbouring villages is easy and one of the top things to do in Positano!

I highly suggest taking a day trip to another location as all the villages along the coast are quite different and offer something unique to their visitors.

There are a ton of stunning little towns and villages that sit along the famous Amalfi Coast. For a rundown on the 8 most beautiful Amalfi Coast towns check out this post .

Whether you prefer a popular and touristy city, or an off-the-beaten-track village, there is an Amalfi Coast town for you! Below is a quick rundown on some of the most popular day trips from Positano.

To Sorrento

Sorrento is located on the opposite side of the coast from Positano and you can either take a bus or a ferry to get there. Warning: If you get motion sickness or are afraid of heights, I do not recommend you take the bus! It is quite scary and has lots of sharp turns around the edges of the high mountains.

Nonetheless, I LOVED Sorrento! It was very unique and there were a lot fewer people there compared to Positano. I really enjoyed the Piazza Tazzo, which is the town’s main square and the streets lined with cute shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Further walking around Sorrento you will find fresh markets, tons of gelato shops and souvenir shops. There are also some places to swim here, but Sorrento is a bit bigger than Positano and you may need to spend your time wisely exploring the city instead of swimming.

Read More: Best Things to do in Sorrento

This island of Capri is almost like stepping into a new world. There are heaps of huge Yachts circling the island, celebrities’ summer homes situated on the steep mountains and shops I can only one daydream to afford.

All the houses and shops are built into the towering mountain offering a very unique look from afar and while on the island.

To get here you can take the ferry from Positano which takes about 30 minutes – but be sure to book your tickets before you arrive so you don’t have to wait in line.

Once you arrive you can stroll the stunning streets, window shop the high-end stores, or have a glass of wine overlooking the Sea.

The ride to Amalfi is either a bus or ferry. The bus can get packed in the summer months and just like the ride to Sorrento, the twists and turns can make you quite uneasy.

Despite the slight price difference of the ferry, I would recommend it for your comfort. Despite the ride to get there, Amalfi is another beautiful city to wander around.

There is a pier that offers stunning views of the buildings embedded into the mountains, tons of cute restaurants and a plethora of boutiques. It is a little bigger than Positano so be sure to plan a few things before going to optimize your time.

Just up the hill from Amalfi is the charming village of Ravello, accessible by bus from Amalfi. Ravello is a lovely village to roam around and soak in the beauty of Italy.

Head to Villa Cimbrone, a 5-star hotel to catch a stunning view from the infinity terrace. Ravello is a great place to unwind and grab some lunch on your Amalfi day trip journey.

Procida is an undiscovered gem just off the Amalfi Coast. It is the perfect place to escape to for a more authentic and much less touristy Italy experience.

This hidden gem has yet to blow up and remains with very few tourists. A visit here offers a unique and beautiful Amalfi Coast experience you will surely not forget.

If you are interested in ancient Roman ruins and amazing sites then a visit to Pompeii is the day trip for you! It is located the furthest distance from Positano but is definitely worth the visit.

Here you will find the ruins of a city that were demolished by a volcano back in the day. It is a very interesting place to visit near Positano that is quite different from all the others.

Visit Santa Maria Assunta

The Santa Maria Assunta is a church in Positano and one of the most photographed sites in the village. The famous church is dome-shaped and topped with colourful majolica tiles making it a stunning sight to see.

Founded in the second half of the 10th century, this church is very historic and holds quite the importance within the village. Therefore, spending some time admiring the church is one of the top things to do in Positano.

  • If you are into art, this is one of the top painted buildings in Positano, therefore, bringing home a painting of this standout city landmark would be a great souvenir.
  • Take some photos of this church to share as this is considered the centrepiece of Positano and should not be ignored or forgotten.

Relax at Arienzo Beach Club

Arienzo is another beach along the coast that is great for laying out and relaxing. It is a bit further from the main beach and has both private and public areas.

This beach is located just beside the main beach in Positano but has an air of sophistication and exclusivity to it, making a visit here one of the top things to do in Positano.

To rent a sunbed here the costs are significantly higher than that of the main beach. However, you will get a more private beach day experience and the whole club looks amazing!

  • At this beach club, it is mandatory that you rent a sunbed and an umbrella. With the sunbed, you get comfort as well as drink service.
  • Make a reservation beforehand to avoid missing out on a sunbed.
  • Be wary of taking photos here. It is a higher-class beach club and many people don’t want to be in any photographs.

Stroll the Streets at Night

When the sun sets in Positano the magical vibe of the village is only amplified. Hundreds of lights ignite the mountain and the sea breeze cools you off after a long day in the sun.

After sunset is by far the best time of day in Positano as this is when the tourists on day trips to Positano are gone and the locals come out. Walking the quiet streets after hours is something you will never forget and one of the best things to do in Positano.

Head to both the beach and up the hill to get a view of the village lights from all different angles. Bring your camera and snap some postcard-worthy photos, and then put your camera away and just enjoy the magic of Positano.

If you want to see the lights of Positano at night from a distance you can also consider going on an evening boat ride. There are plenty of boat companies that will take you a short distance out into the water so you can admire the city lights from afar.

This is a very magical experience and one you should surely consider. Especially if you are on a romantic getaway as it is one of the more popular things to do in Positano for couples.

  • Walk up from the beach and away from the buildings to get one of the far-away views of the building lights.
  • Cameras don’t do the city lights justice – some things are just best as memories.

Visit a Nightclub

If you are looking for something more to do during the night rather than walking the streets, then a visit to Music on the Rocks is a must. This is a super unique nightclub that is built inside a cliff! How cool is that?!

This is the only club in Positano – in fact, it is the only club for miles – therefore it is a very popular nighttime destination. Due to its location being carved into the mountain, you can actually hear the waves below you as you dance the night away listening to great music.

What makes this club more special is that even the interior looks like a cave! This club offers a unique nightlife experience you will not find elsewhere and a visit here is one of the best things to do in Positano at night.

  • Music on the Rocks often has famous DJs performing at it – check out who is playing when your visiting in order to secure a ticket.
  • As this is the only club for miles be sure to arrive before the crowd to make sure you gain entry.

Visit an Art Gallery

When walking around Positano you may notice that there are quite a few art galleries, many of which display paintings of Positano itself! Based on how stunning Positano is, there is no question as to why people are so inclined to paint this beauty.

Exploring the art galleries is a nice way to escape the sun for a bit while soaking in some Italian culture. As a result of the art being primarily inspired by the views around Positano, all the pieces are absolutely amazing!

There are such talented local artists who capture the beauty of the village perfectly. Roaming and admiring this art is surely one of the best things to do in Positano.

  • Picking one of the paintings from an art gallery is a great option for a souvenir! Purchase one for your home to keep the memory of Positano alive.
  • As mentioned, Positano gets extremely hot in the summer. Escaping the heat to admire the art within an exhibit is the perfect way to avoid a sunburn or heat stroke.

Make Limoncello

The absolute best thing to do in Positano is to make your own limoncello! This is a super unique activity that only takes up a few hours but will give you a full insight into the limoncello-making process and more.

The best place to go for this in Positano is Valenti Positano. There are a few different tour options ranging from just learning how to make limoncello (and drinking it of course) to also tasting the different homemade spreads, olive oils and more.

The tour is run by locals who will give you detailed information on the entire process, and let you do some of the steps as well. This is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture that is Positano. Plus, the view from the deck is one of the best in the city and makes the experience even better!

  • Book in advance to ensure you can get in and do your tour.
  • Bring your camera because the tour and view are something you will want to capture to remember forever.

Enjoy a Drink with a View

There is nothing better than enjoying a nice drink, some bites to eat and looking at a stunning view. Going for a drink with a view is one of the best things to do in Positano that is beyond magical.

There are quite a few nice restaurants/bars that have amazing views of the city. One of the best in Positano is Franco’s Bar – it not only has a breathtaking view but also delicious cocktails, yummy snacks, and great music. The vibe in this bar is amazing.

  • Head here when the sun is setting. During this time of day, it’s not as hot and watching the sunset while enjoying a drink is euphoric.
  • I noticed people dressed a little bit fancy here – I’d suggest you wear something nice to this bar and clean yourself up a bit before going.
  • Be prepared to find prices that take in the magical view. The better the view the higher the costs.

Fine Dine at Zass

Positano is not a cheap place to visit. In fact, most prices here are inflated due to the people and the popularity of it as a travel destination. So when you visit you should try to save up some extra money so you can splurge and have the full Positano experience.

As you may have realized by now, the view in Positano is one of the best things about it. What I have yet to talk about is the food, and in Positano the combination of a stunning view and authentic Italian food is unbeatable.

One night (or more) you should go to a nice Italian restaurant while overlooking the city. An amazing option for this is Zass, which is one of the best restaurants in Positano with also one of the best views!

The aim of Zass is to create a unique food experience using ingredients fresh from the local garden. Going out for an amazing Italian meal is one of the best things to do in Positano.

  • Reserve a table well before your visit! As one of the best restaurants in the village, it is always full and getting a table can be difficult the closer you get to the date.
  • Go here for dinner – lunch is still amazing but dinner with the city lights in the background is very romantic and otherworldly.

Go on a Boat Tour

Positano may be one of the most beautiful places you’ve ever been to, but that doesn’t mean you should spend all your time there. Exploring all of the Amalfi Coast and seeing its beauty in its entirety is a must. One of the best ways to do this is with a boat tour! The boat tours bring you along the coastline to show you the huge mountains, various grottos, and other villages.

Boat tours are great because they are an easy and quick way to see almost all of the Amalfi Coast in just one day. The boat tour also brings you to unique places and the boat driver can give you interesting facts/info that are super interesting.

If you have limited time and want to see more of this magical region then embarking on a boat tour is one of the best things to do in Positano.

  • Book your tickets beforehand.
  • Bring your bathing suit. When I went on my boat tour it was boiling outside so when the tour guide let us jump off the boat in random areas it was a welcome relief. Also, swimming in the middle of the blue waters was both terrifying and exhilarating.
  • Check out these tours below!

Take Photos of the View

Taking photos of the beauty of Positano is by far one of the best things to do in Positano. If you know me you know I LOVE taking photos! I love being creative with my photos and having the ability to share my experience with others through images.

Positano was like heaven to me, all the stunning views and different angles were more than I could handle.

Taking some time to walk around with the purpose of taking photos is a must. This way you won’t feel rushed and you may also stumble upon some unique areas without trying.

  • During high season there are a ton of people exploring Positano as well as taking photos, therefore getting shots with people in the background is almost guaranteed. Try heading to some offbeat areas to avoid people.
  • Head out in the very early morning to snap some photos while no one is around to get in your way.
  • If you are in a popular photo spot be quick with your shot. There’s nothing worse than a line of people waiting for one person to get the “perfect shot”.

Take Photos WITH The View

If you like taking photos of yourself then Positano will be a dream! It is one of the most photogenic cities in the world and capturing stunning photos for memories or sharing online is a must. Simply walk around Positano and find the best spots and get snapping.

Try Limoncello

For those who don’t know, limoncello is an alcoholic beverage made from lemon skins that are soaked in alcohol for weeks. This is then mixed with sugar to make it sweeter. It is a traditional digestive in Southern Italy and is usually served after your meal.

To get the full Italian experience be sure to ask for some limoncello after one of your meals in Positano and decide for yourself if it’s a good digestive.

If you are a fan of the lemon flavour, you don’t have to stop with limoncello. There are tons of different lemon-flavoured foods and items for you to try. Trying local foods and drinks is one of the best things to do in Positano to immerse yourself in the wonderful culture.

  • Sip on it slowly, don’t shoot it down like a shot.
  • If you aren’t much of an alcohol drinker but want to be included in the Italian experience, I suggest you go for some lemon gelato after your meal.

Rent a Scooter

Renting a scooter in Positano will make you feel like you are in a movie. The wind in your hair and the view of the colorful buildings and the sea beside you can almost make you feel infinite. They are really easy to ride and finding parking is simple.

It’s a really good idea to rent a scooter if you want to go to a nearby city without taking a bus with all the people. Also, on a scooter, you can stop whenever you want and take photos or look at the views whenever you please. This makes it one of the top things to do in Positano.

  • Be careful – The streets are very windy and have lots of turns – although the views are beautiful, you must be sure you keep your eyes on the road.
  • Wear helmets – the Italian drivers along the coast are a little crazy with their tactics and I never want anyone to get hurt.
  • If you are not a comfortable driver don’t rent a scooter. There are a ton of buses that can bring you around the coast that will allow you to focus on the views and not the road.

Drink Wine on the Beach

No beach day is complete without a nice drink in your hand, and while in Italy do as the Italians do! That means having a nice glass of Italian wine. Who doesn’t like wine? And enjoying a glass of Italian wine while in Italy is a dream come true!

When you get a sun-bed on the beach you are then able to order drinks and food from one of the beach boys. Please take advantage of this and treat yourself to the ultimate relaxing beach day. Wine and the beach are two of the best things to do in Positano combined!

  • This is a personal preference and not everyone will agree but: ask for ice in your wine. In the summer months, Positano is boiling, and if you want your wine to stay chilled ask for some ice!
  • Splurge a little here – we know Positano is not cheap and drink service on the beach can cost some money, but it is a great experience.

Eat some Gelato

Visitors to Italy also seem to overindulge in gelato, but they can’t help it! Gelato in Italy tastes different and much better than regular ice cream. As a result, stopping for gelato (or two a day) is encouraged. It is also one of the best things to do in Positano.

I have also found that it’s a great way to cool down if you start overheating (at least that’s the excuse I use). Be sure to taste some of the unique local flavours so you can experience more of the Italian traditions for yourself.

Go Swimming

Although the sun-beds are comfortable and sunbathing is relaxing, the best part about the beach is the water. Swimming in the Positano waters is amazing! The seawater is at the perfect temperature and the views are just perfect.

Swimming around and looking back at the picturesque village of Positano is something you will never forget, it almost feels like a fairytale! There is no question as to why swimming is one of the best things to do in Positano.

  • The water gets deep fairly quickly, so if you are not a strong swimmer be wary of this.
  • The beach in Positano is a pebbly beach and not a sandy beach. You may want to wear some type of shoes or foot protection when on the beach or swimming as I found the pebbles hurt my feet a little when walking into the water.
  • If you want an iconic photo in the water try to head to the beach in the early morning when fewer people are around.

Enjoy the Views

The final, and one of the best things to do in Positano, is to simply enjoy the views. Honestly, I could stare at the village buildings of Positano all day if I had time to, and I honestly don’t think I would ever get sick of it.

Finding an area in the village you like, scoping out a place to sit, and just taking in all of Positano is a must. It is an exceptional travel destination and looks even better in real life!

  • Head up from the beach as up the mountain there are benches along the road for people to sit on and view the city, heading here is a great start to enjoy the views
  • If you have the money or want to splurge one night, getting a hotel with a patio overlooking Positano will give a private, and romantic view of the city. If you are visiting for love, consider looking into this

Best time to visit Positano

As we all know Positano is beautiful, and that means everyone wants to visit. Year-round it is a popular travel destination, with obvious spikes in the summer months (June, July, and August). When you should plan your visit really depends on your travel desires.

  • Summer months (on – season) – The summer months are very busy. If you hate crowds and tons of tourists, then I suggest you visit Positano during the offseason. But, the summer months are when the city and the whole Amalfi Coast come alive: meaning everything is open and easily accessible. If you want to see Positano in all its glory then this is the time for you!
  • Fall-winter-spring (off-season) – The other seasons are not as busy as summer, therefore, there are fewer people and everything is cheaper. On the other hand, getting to the coast is more difficult as almost all the tours have packed up and aren’t running during the offseason – arranging transportation in alternative ways to Positano should be considered during this time. Also, beware that not as much stuff will be open. However, if you just want to see the beautiful views for a lower cost then this is the time for you!

Each season comes with its pros and cons, use your travel criteria to decide when is best for you! However, there is more you need to take into account when planning your trip to Italy other than the seasons!

Where to Stay in Positano

Positano has some amazing hotels with awe-inducing views, but these come at a price. Staying at a fancy hotel tends to be one of the top things to do in Positano to enjoy a trip of luxury. Check out this post for a complete list of the best places to stay in Positano !

Nonetheless, there are other hotels in the city that are great budget-friendly options with a stunning view just a short walk away. I book all my accommodations through booking.com – so feel free to use this map below and use the zoom buttons to find accommodation that fits your price range.

Tips for Visiting Positano

Here are some tips to follow for anyone visiting Positano:

  • Positano is an extremely popular tourist destination and in the summer months, this is extremely evident. If you want to enjoy this coastal gem with fewer people visit in the offseason.
  • The beach in Positano is a rocky beach. The rocks are a little painful on the feel and get extremely hot in the summer so be sure to pack water shoes.
  • Positano is quite an expensive village in Italy . You will find the hotels, restaurants, and attractions are costly so be sure to plan this into your budget.
  • Positano is a very hilly city so if you have mobility issues it may be difficult for you to get around.
  • Most of the nice restaurants require reservations in order to have a seat for dinner. It is important to search for the restaurants you want to eat at =beforehand and try to get a seat with a view. Since eating at nice restaurants are one of the top things to do in Positano they get super full.

How to get to Positano

the one downside of visiting Positano is that it is a little bit difficult to get to. But fear not, there are plenty of ways to make it to this stunning Amalfi Coast Town.

  • By Car: The quickest but most expensive way to get to Positano is by car. The closest airport to Positano is the one in Naples. From here you can take a car directly to Positano which will cost upwards of 60€ – 80€ and takes around 1 hour.
  • Rent a car: Renting a car is not only a great way to get to Positano but also to get around to other cities along the Amalfi Coast.
  • By Ferry: There are two ways in which you can take a ferry to Positano. One is by going to the port in Naples and taking the Ferry from Naples to Sorrento and onwards to Positano. This costs around 20€ and takes around 45 minutes. The other option is taking the ferry from Salerno to Positano which costs around 15€ and takes around 35 minutes.
  • By Bus: Bus is one of the cheapest ways to get to Positano and is used after arriving at a nearby city by train. After arriving in either Sorrento or Salerno you can take the public transport bus and take it until you arrive in Positano.

Travel Insurance

It is important to have travel insurance before traveling. It’s the number one thing you should always pack before traveling that can save you a lot of money, time, and stress. World Nomads is a popular Travel Insurance choice. Enter your details below to get a free quote! 

I’m sure after reading this you are dying to head to Positano! There is just so much to do and so much to see. It truly is a magical destination. There are so many amazing things to do in Positano that will have you falling in love with all the possibilities.

Pin “Things to do in Positano” for later!

Samantha Karen is the owner and author of the travel blog Sam Sees World, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the world's most beautiful and unique travel destinations. As a full time traveled she has visited over 50 countries with more on the way.

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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.

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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?

This is an image of the famous beach in Positano, Italy during the off-season.

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.

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in positano italy

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

places to visit in 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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7 Amazing Day Trips From Positano

From looking glam in sorrento and capri to exploring the wonders of pompeii and naples, these are the best day trips from positano..

Bella Positano! This cliffside village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy. With its pastel-coloured houses cascading down to the sea, and bougainvillaea-draped streets, Positano is one of my favourite places to visit in Italy. No doubt, it’ll be yours soon too!

Positano day trips

As enchanting as Positano is, the surrounding area is also filled with amazing places to visit. You can immerse yourself in the luxurious lifestyle on the island of Capri , take a boat tour along the coast, or get lost in the back streets of Naples. If history is your thing, Pompeii and Ravello are just down the road from Positano too.

If you need any other help planning your time in Italy, don’t miss my guide to where to stay in Positano . I’ve shared my favourite hotel options, from budget-friendly apartments to the most luxurious hotels.

Positano features alongside Capri and Sorrento , on my ultimate Italy honeymoon itinerary as well as my suggested route for a southern Italian road trip .

Positano is a beautiful place to stay

Right, ready to hear about the best day trips from Positano? Let’s do this!

7 Best Day Trips From Positano

Escape to capri for the day.

Number one on my list of the best day trips from Positano is a visit to Capri, the jewel of the Tyrrhenian Sea. This beautiful island, just a short boat tour from Positano, is a place where the grandeur of nature meets the luxury of exclusive resorts, world-class food and chic boutiques.

Capri is a popular day trip from Positano

Can you imagine taking a luxury day trip from Positano to Capri ? You could stroll arm in arm with your partner as you pop by the island’s upmarket stores, where the air is full of the scent of designer perfumes and the rustle of silk beckons you to spend wildly! How about an afternoon sipping limoncello in the sun-drenched Piazzetta as you watch the world go by? Or you could spend your day sampling gourmet cuisine at one of the island’s superb cliffside restaurants. 

If food and shopping aren’t quite your thing, the famous Blue Grotto is one of Italy’s most amazing places to visit. You’ll get to relax in a wooden boat as your skipper sings Neapolitan songs, while navigating through a tiny stone portal into a sparkling cavern lit by a natural glow of blue light! How magical does that sound? It’s one of the most stunning places in Italy – you simply have to see it with your own eyes!

Blue Grotto Capri

Visit the Towns of Amalfi and Ravello

Just a biscotti’s throw from Positano is Amalfi, the town that gives this part of Italy its name. This historic town is dominated by the magnificent Duomo di Amalfi which is decorated with beautiful Moorish arches and medieval frescoes. I’d recommend wandering through the maze of narrow streets surrounding the cathedral, discovering tiny cobbled squares and little cafes where you can stop for a quick espresso.

Amalfi Old Town

Perched above Amalfi, the village of Ravello is even more beautiful. The gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Camborne almost seem like they are built in the sky. You have the Mediterranean spread out below, framed by the colourful swirls and rows of statues in the gardens. These towns are perfect day trips from Positano if you feel like a break from the sea (as if!). You’ll find yourself taking endless photos too!

View from Villa Rufolo in Ravello

This beautiful town is an easy day trip from Positano and if you love lemons (like me), in Sorrento you will be in yellow, citrusy heaven! World famous for its lemon groves, Sorrento has a historic centre packed with ancient churches and lively piazzas.

Day trip from Positano to Sorrento

Sorrento is such a picturesque and charming place to wander around. It has the feel of a town that moves at a different pace.

You can wander down to the Marina Grande and set off on boat tours along the coast or just idle away an afternoon or evening watching the fishing boats come and go. But best of all, Sorrento is the place to try limoncello. In fact, I’d recommend booking this tour where you’ll get to look around a 150-year-old Limoncello factory. You’ll learn how the famous Italian beverage is made, and of course, sample some too!

Lemon garden in Sorrento

If you’re partial to a tipple or two, I’d also recommend stopping for a glass in one of the cafes around Piazza Tasso.

Pompeii and Herculaneum

Everyone knows the story about Pompeii: the city that was buried by ash from Vesuvius. But it’s not until you visit Pompeii and Herculaneum that you truly feel what happened.

Pompeii

This ancient city, along with its less famous but just as haunting neighbour Herculaneum, has history and tragedy etched into its stones and streets.

There are some tours you can book which will provide transport from Positano , but they often work out quite pricey. You’ll be able to source your own transport once you’re there. Then I’d recommend booking an entrance ticket with guided tour . You’ll be accompanied by an archaeologist with in-depth knowledge of the events that led to so many people being buried alive by the ash that rained down from Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. It’s very moving to see the remains of people and their everyday lives as you walk through their homes, forever frozen in stone.   

Herculaneum

Ischia Island

Have you ever relaxed in a warming thermal spring? It’s a lovely experience where nature meets relaxation. Perhaps you’d like to go on a luxury day trip from Positano to an exclusive spa where all your cares are massaged and soaked away. Well, if you take a trip to Ischia Island, out beyond glitzy Capri, this is possible!

Ischia Island

The island’s thermal waters have been used for centuries to alleviate aches and pains and to soothe tense muscles. The island has over 30 luxurious spa resorts to choose from, along with free public hot springs and thermal swimming pools.  

This rugged island is also famed for its vineyards. In fact, one of the best things to do in Ischia is go on a wine-tasting tour . You’ll get to sample four local wines, from delicious crisp whites that are ideal on warm sunny days, to full-bodied reds which partner well with rich, Italian cuisine.

Ischia vineyards

Alternatively, you can be independent and explore the island at your own pace. At low tide you can walk out to the commanding Aragonese Castle, perched on a tiny rocky islet at the end of a causeway. Follow the tunnel to a lift, and you’ll be transported up to the castle’s ramparts where there’s a two-kilometre walking trail, which will take you around all of the castle’s highlights.  

Many have a love / hate relationship with Naples. Personally, I love it for a short time. The city is an exciting mix of Italian elegance and Mediterranean cultures… with the world’s best pizzas thrown in!

visiting Naples from Positano

Naples is rich in history, so I’d recommend visiting at least one museum or art gallery. My favourite is the Archaeological Museum of Naples which has amazing collections of bronzes, frescoes and Egyptian artefacts.

For a really fascinating day trip from Positano, I’d recommend exploring Naples’ extensive underground caverns which date back 2,400 years. They include incredible Roman aqueducts as well as a museum of old cars. 

And did I mention pizza? Neopolitan pizza is simply the best! Traditionally, the pizzas from Naples are known for their simplicity. Forget the toppings, a classic Napoli pizza is topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzerella and basil, on a simple, yet flavoursome, wheat dough.

If you’re looking for a really fun activity in Naples, how about trying your hand at making one of these Napolitanen delights? This pizza-making class will turn you into a pizza pro! And yes, you get to eat what you create! What could be better?

Explore the Amalfi Coast

One of my favourite day trips from Positano is to explore the pretty villages and coastal paths of the Amalfi Coast. You can begin your adventure in Atrani, just a short walk (or catch a local bus) up the coast from Positano. The narrow lanes of the village are full of cute little cafes and shops and most of them lead down to a tiny shingle beach.

Atrani

From the old-world charm of Atrani, you carry on to Cetara. The air of this authentic fishing village is full of the scent of anchovies and the sharp tang of lemons. With a foodie reputation, it’s a great spot to stop for lunch.

Cetara

Further up the coast is Erchie, another secluded village with a little pebbly beach and a colourful collection of fishing boats. You can while away the afternoon here getting to know the locals over coffee and limoncello before making your way back to Positano.

Some of the Amalfi Coast is busy with tourists, but if you visit some of these smaller villages, you’ll get a real flavour of authentic Italian life..

With so many day trips from Positano to choose from, you might have trouble deciding how to spend your time. The solution is easy though… just stay a little longer in this magical part of Italy and embrace the leisurely pace of life on the Amalfi Coast. After all, just like fine wine, limoncello and superb pizza, some places are meant to be savoured, not rushed.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these fun days out from Positano. If you’re looking for more tips for your time in Italy, have a read of these posts…

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying traditional pasta in Puglia, to enjoying lake views in northern Italy and the incredible canals of Venice, it's time to plan the ultimate Italy road trip! 

places to visit in positano italy

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!

places to visit in positano italy

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

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best day trips from positano

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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8 insider tips for the best experience of Italy's Amalfi Coast

Abigail Blasi

Mar 1, 2024 • 5 min read

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Make the most of your trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast with these top tips for first timers © Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

Running from Sorrento southwards to Salerno , the Amalfi Coast is a jagged rollercoaster of citrus groves edged by cobalt-blue sea.

Its cliff-hugging road, the strada statale 163 Amalfitana (Amalfi Drive), is one of the most beautiful in the world, though not for the fainthearted, and yes, it still gets extremely traffic clogged, despite recent traffic calming measures. The Amalfi Coast is a victim of its own success, yet even the masses that flock here can’t diminish the charm of the world’s most beautiful stretch of coast.

Contrary to what you might think, it’s not all crowds, sports cars and influencers: between the grand villas and tourist-magnet towns rural life goes on, with terraced farmland and local fishing fleets. These top tips on planning, health, safety and etiquette can help you make the most of your trip.

A small ferry boat transports passengers along a rocky coastline with houses built into the cliffs

1. Allow at least five days to see the Amalfi Coast

It’s ideal to have at least five days to spend here, especially if you’re taking public transport . This way you could explore highlights of the coast , such as Positano , Ravello , Maiori and Furore , without rushing. The best way to travel between the towns is by ferry. You can take the ferry from Naples to Amalfi , and then hop along the coast. You’ll see beautiful views along the coast, and won’t be stuck in, or contribute to, the traffic problem.

It’s best to book accommodation ahead. Plan ferry hops too, booking tickets on Travelmar , which has the most extensive service. 

2. Pack the right footwear

There are a lot of steps to climb in most of the towns along the Amalfi Coast, so you’re likely  to be covering a lot of ground on foot. Pack some comfortable shoes or sandals in which you can tramp up and down hills and staircases. However, remember to include some smarter shoes for the evening, as Italians get dressed up for going out and will look askance at sneakers or flip flops.

Most of the beaches along the coast are pebbly and rocky, so it’s also worth packing some water shoes. 

3. Try not to add to the crowds and traffic problems

Millions of people visit the Amalfi Coast every year, and July and August are the peak times, when Italians and other Europeans have their long summer break. Since 2023, a new rule prevents even-numbered number plates driving the coast’s famous SS163 Amalfitana on even-numbered days during Easter week, in August, and weekends from June 15 to September 30. This adds an extra layer of complexity if you’re traveling by car.

If you can, the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in the early spring (though Easter week is busy) or late fall, when the weather is usually pretty good, and the sea is warmer. If traveling in the lowest season, from November to March, be aware lots of restaurants and hotels take a few months off and close, and ferry and bus services are much more limited.

A coastal town built close to cliffs

4. Go beyond the tourist honeypots

During the Amalfi Coast’s long summer, the streets and beaches will be rammed, with every traveler along the coast wanting to enjoy the atmosphere of Positano’s pastel-painted streets spilling down the wooded hillside and the thrilling high up views from Ravello. 

However, if you explore outside the obvious places, you’ll discover the side of the Amalfi Coast that has remained the same for hundreds of years. Above Ravello, walk along hidden coastal paths to Tramonti, a village that lies slightly inland. Also connected by the "Path of the Lemons" is Minori , a chalk-hued small town that cascades down the hill to the dark-blue Tyrrhenian sea that feels more off the beaten track. Hike to the Valle delle Ferriere above Amalfi with its waterfalls and forest. If you’re heading to the beach in Positano, try Spiaggia del Fornillo , which is a short walk along a coastal path: it’s usually less busy than the Spiaggia Grande . 

5. Careful where you wear your swimwear

Italians care about the bella figura (making a good impression, a beautiful appearance) and they would never dream of going out for dinner in shorts and flip-flops. In towns and resorts along the coast, people will go out for the passeggiata (the early evening "little walk"), when everyone strolls around town in their smarter, evening clothes. Ensure you’ve packed some outfits for the evening so that you don’t mess with the dolce vita Italian vibe. 

Sorrento, the town that is the gateway to the coast, has even banned bikinis and men going shirtless in town. The town got tired of scantily dressed tourists thinking their swimwear was appropriate off the beach, and so you can receive an on-the-spot fine (€500) for wearing a bikini or swim shorts in the streets rather than on the sands.

6. Italian tap water is safe to drink, but...

Although tap water is safe to drink all over Italy , the taste of the water can vary. Thus many locals drink bottled water rather than from the tap. If you want to buy bottled water, glass bottles are preferable as they won’t add to plastic waste. However, you don’t have to: you won’t get sick from drinking tap water in Italy.

A series of stone archways runs alongside a road

7. Take preventative measures against insects and sunburn

Mosquitos can be an issue in the summer. Bring some repellent in case you visit a zanzara (mosquito) stronghold. 

The sun is strong in southern Italy, and can burn even in winter. It’s wise to bring some high-factor sun lotion with you so that you can find the level of protection you require. Sunscreen also tends to be more expensive on the Amalfi Coast than you might find at home. 

8. Bring your basic medicines with you

It’s worth bringing basic medicines such as paracetamol/acetaminophen (tachipirina), antihistamine (zirtec) and any other over-the-counter medications you might regularly use, as, these tend to be much more expensive. Also paracetamol for babies is usually sold as supposte (suppositories), which might not be what you’re used to. Painkillers and other medicines only available in pharmacies and much larger supermarkets in Italy, not regular stores.

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The Best Places To Visit In Italy And Why

t aly is a treasure trove of captivating destinations, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Italy and the reasons why they are so special:

  • Rome: As the capital city and a cradle of Western civilization, Rome is a must-visit destination. The city is home to iconic historical sites such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, which offer glimpses into the grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire. St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, located within the independent Vatican City, house some of the world's most significant art and religious treasures.
  • Florence: Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is an art lover's dream. Visitors can admire masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci at the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery. The city's beautiful architecture, including the Florence Cathedral and the Ponte Vecchio, adds to its timeless charm.
  • Venice: Famous for its picturesque canals and romantic ambiance, Venice is a unique and enchanting city. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine streets, take a gondola ride through the canals, and visit world-renowned landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace.
  • Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy, dotted with charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. The dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and colorful buildings make it a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
  • Cinque Terre: Translated as “Five Lands,” Cinque Terre is a collection of five fishing villages perched on the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning coastal hiking trails, delicious seafood, and picturesque panoramas.
  • Tuscany: Tuscany's rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns have captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. Cities like Siena and Lucca boast historic charm, while the city of Pisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower.
  • Milan: A global fashion and design capital, Milan is known for its chic style and modern architecture. The city's artistic and cultural scene, exemplified by the magnificent La Scala Opera House and Leonardo da Vinci's “The Last Supper,” adds to its allure.
  • Naples and Pompeii: Naples is a vibrant and chaotic city known for its delicious Neapolitan pizza and rich history. Nearby, the ancient city of Pompeii, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman life.
  • Sicily: The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the ancient Greek ruins of Agrigento to the charming town of Taormina with its views of Mount Etna, Sicily's diversity is a treat for travelers.
  • Sardinia: Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Sardinia is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The island's unique culture and traditional festivals add to its allure.

Each of these destinations in Italy has its own distinct charm, history, and attractions, making the country a top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable and enriching experience. Whether you're interested in art, history, gastronomy, or simply savoring the beauty of nature, Italy has something to offer everyone

The post The Best Places To Visit In Italy And Why appeared first on Things That Make People Go Aww .

taly is a treasure trove of captivating destinations, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Italy and the reasons why they are so special: Each of these destinations in Italy has its own distinct charm, history, and attractions, making the country a top choice for travelers...

Positano's charm: Explore Italy's coastal paradise with this travel guide

Positano's charm: Explore Italy's coastal paradise with this travel guide

Nestled on Italy 's Amalfi Coast, Positano is a picturesque village where houses cascade down cliffs to the sea. Its steep, winding streets and stone beaches offer stunning vistas and a peaceful vibe. The air is perfumed with the scent of lemons, enhancing the beauty of the turquoise waters and the bright hues of bougainvillea that adorn the landscape.

Stroll through history

To fully appreciate Positano's historic architecture and vibrant local culture, take a walking tour. Begin at the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, notable for its impressive dome adorned with colorful majolica tiles. Stroll leisurely through the winding alleys, lined with shops offering artisan-crafted souvenirs. The journey is relaxed yet involves climbing steps, so comfortable footwear is advisable for the best experience.

Embrace the azure sea

Relax on Positano's Spiaggia Grande or the more intimate Fornillo Beach, with their inviting clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim. Comfortable sunbeds are available for rent, allowing you to bask in the warmth of the Italian sun. For those seeking a quieter spot, explore the smaller coves dotted along the coast, reachable by boat or scenic footpaths offering privacy and tranquility.

Discover artisanal crafts

Positano is renowned for its bespoke fashion and artisanal crafts. Delve into the boutique shops for sandals tailor-made to complement the village's cobblestone paths. Marvel at the colorful ceramics and the soft, linen clothing, each piece reflecting the dedication of local artisans. Spend time in these boutiques; they are replete with unique keepsakes that capture the essence of Positano's rich crafting traditions.

Savor local flavors

Delight in Positano's culinary scene at family-owned trattorias, where fresh, local produce is the highlight. Savor gnocchi alla Sorrentina , pillowy potato dumplings in a rich tomato sauce, and the luscious delizia al limone , a lemon-infused sponge cake. These traditional dishes are best enjoyed on terraces with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, adding to the pleasure of each flavorful bite.

Unwind in nature's lap

Nature lovers must experience the Path of the Gods, a serene hiking trail with breathtaking views. This path weaves along the Amalfi Coast, showcasing the vast Mediterranean and rugged mountains. The trek begins in Agerola's quaint setting and concludes in the charming village of Positano. It's an immersive journey into nature's beauty, offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist destinations.

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COMMENTS

  1. Top 10 Things to Do in Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

    6. Take a Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast. One of the best things to do in Positano is to take a boat tour of the Amalfi Coast. Nothing beats seeing the coastal cliffs, colorful towns, beaches, and sea caves from the water. And there are several different ways to do it.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Positano

    This idyllic town on the Amalfi Coast is full of charm. Hike the Sentiero Degli Dei, explore sea caves on a scenic boat tour, or relax at the famous Spiaggia Grande. Things to Do in Positano, Italy: See Tripadvisor's 145,667 traveler reviews and photos of Positano tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March.

  3. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Positano (UPDATED March 2024)

    Places to visit in Positano. Top Things to Do in Positano, Italy. Places to Visit in Positano. This idyllic town on the Amalfi Coast is full of charm. Hike the Sentiero Degli Dei, explore sea caves on a scenic boat tour, or relax at the famous Spiaggia Grande. Explore popular experiences.

  4. Positano: The Ultimate Guide Beyond the Picture-Perfect Postcards

    Positano's a gem on Italy's Amalfi Coast, tucked in the Campania region. It's in the Salerno Province, famous for its stunning coastal views. Sitting at 40.6283° N, 14.4843° E, it's perched about 120 meters above the sea. Nearby, just 6 kilometers northwest, is Vico Equense. Positano's unique for its layout.

  5. 25 Things to Do in Positano Like a Local: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay

    If you're heading to Italy's Amalfi Coast, you're probably wondering about Positano— things to do and see, day trips to take, where to stay, and local restaurants. Positano is one of the best Amalfi Coast towns you can visit, and we've spent many years exploring the region — after all, Campania is our ancestral home, so we're ...

  6. 13 EPIC Things to Do in Positano, Italy

    2 Best things to do in Positano. 2.1 Enjoy the views over Positano. 2.2 Watch the Sunset in Positano. 2.3 Relax at Spiaggia di Marina Grande. 2.4 Relax at Fornillo Beach. 2.5 Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta. 2.6 Discover the iconic Fiordo di Furore. 2.7 Go for a Positano Sunset Boat Trip.

  7. 22 Best Things To Do In Positano, Italy

    8. Take a wine tour through the Amalfi countryside (from USD 398.0) Source: Pixabay. The hills around Positano are blessed with some of the best vineyards in Italy and with sumptuous reds, refreshing whites, and aromatic roses on offer; a wine tour is an ideal way to sample the local delights.

  8. 13 Amazing Things to Do in Positano (You Can't Miss)

    Best Time to Visit Positano. First things first: let's tackle the best time to visit Positano. The best time to visit Positano is between May and September, though you're better off avoiding peak summer times to avoid peak summer crowds. From April to October, there's really no way to visit Positano without encountering some amount of crowds.

  9. 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Positano, Italy

    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.

  10. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Positano

    See way to experience (1) 6. Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta e Cripta Medievale. 520. Historic Sites. The Medieval Crypt is located just below the altar of the Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta. It was built in the 12th century. a. C. with parts of a Roman Villa that was in Positano in the 1st Century A. C..

  11. The Best Things to Do in Positano, Italy

    We've put together the best things to do in Positano, Italy. If you want to visit Positano for yourself, join our premium 10-day Southern Italy trip - you'll explore the best destinations in the south, including a day on the Amalfi Coast, with the help of our Local Insider. 1. Walk the Path of the Gods. Hiking Trail.

  12. Positano travel

    Europe. Dramatic, deluxe and more than a little dashing, Positano is the Amalfi Coast's front-cover splash, with vertiginous houses tumbling down to the sea in a cascade of sun-bleached peach, pink and terracotta. No less photo-worthy are its steep streets and steps, flanked by wisteria-draped hotels, smart restaurants and fashionable retailers.

  13. 10 Magical Things to Do in Positano (+ Nearby Attractions!)

    Best Things to Do in Positano. 1. Visit the Santa Maria Assunta Church. According to local oral tradition, a Byzantine icon was brought by monks fleeing the raids of Cliento to the place where they would build the new Benedictine monastery. Their icon of the Virgin Mary has been venerated since, and Santa Maria Assunta Church is built as a ...

  14. 8 Things You Absolutely Cannot Miss in Positano Italy

    Positano on Italy's Amalfi Coast is full of so many amazing things to see and do that it can be hard to narrow down your to do list. With the help of many local Positano experts, here are 8 things you absolutely cannot miss when visiting — the best things to do in Positano Italy! ... Where to Travel in 2018 (My Favorite Places of 2017) 34 ...

  15. How to Visit Positano, Italy's Iconic Summer Hotspot on the ...

    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 ...

  16. 20 amazing things to do in Positano, Amalfi Coast

    Delizia al limone. Baba al rum. Sfogliatelle. Images from La Zagara. The best pastry shops in Positano are La Zagara, Angelo Pasticceria, and Collina Positano Bakery. If you happen to visit the town of Amalfi, you should also stop at Pasticceria Andrea Pansa, one of the oldest pastry shops on the Amalfi Coast! 3.

  17. What to Do in Positano, Italy in One Day (Updated 2024)

    Hire a Vintage Car for a Tour of Positano! One of the most amazing things to do in Positano is to hire a vintage car for a tour around the main highlights. You can book this tour where someone will drive you around and you can stop at photogenic points along the way! 6. Visit the Instagrammable Fruit Stand in Positano.

  18. 15 Things You Can't Miss in Positano, Italy

    1. Spend the day at a Beach Club. One of the best things to do in Positano is hit the beach! While there is a public section of the main beach where you can lay down a towel, spending the day at one of the famous beach clubs is a must. The beach clubs are known for their picture perfect colorful umbrellas and loungers.

  19. The Only Positano Travel Guide You Need

    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.

  20. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Positano

    See way to experience (1) 6. Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta e Cripta Medievale. 520. Historic Sites. The Medieval Crypt is located just below the altar of the Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta. It was built in the 12th century. a. C. with parts of a Roman Villa that was in Positano in the 1st Century A. C..

  21. 20 Awesome Things To Do In Positano, Italy

    Paddleboard Or Kayak in Positano. Summer in Italy means a lot of water activities. While staying in Sorrento, enjoy kayaking around the grottos and bays or paddleboarding at sunrise for a fresh wakeup. There are many rental shops on the beach, and the prices range between €10 to €20 per hour.

  22. 22 Best Things to do in Positano

    As the most famous and visited place along the Amalfi coast, there is no shortage of things to do in Positano, Italy. It is located right along the Tyrrhenian sea and is the perfect travel destination for anyone who loves unique architecture, breathtaking views, warm sun, and Italian cuisine.

  23. Is Positano Worth Visiting?: 13+ Tips for Visiting this Beautiful

    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.

  24. 17 Beautiful Towns on the Amalfi Coast (+Map & Photos)

    I am trying to plan a trip late May/early June 2024 with 3 teenagers (5 total). I want to visit Rome, Florence, Pompeii and Tuscany for sure. Also want to fit in Milan and Northern Italy (Turin, or to see alps or Dolomites) but also want to see Amalfi Coast, esp Positano and Ravello, cuz according to your article, those towns seem wonderful.

  25. 7 Best Day Trips From Positano: 2024 Guide

    Bella Positano! This cliffside village on Italy's Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy. With its pastel-coloured houses cascading down to the sea, and bougainvillaea-draped streets, Positano is one of my favourite places to visit in Italy. No doubt, it'll be yours soon too!

  26. 8 things to know before going to Italy's Amalfi Coast

    1. Allow at least five days to see the Amalfi Coast. It's ideal to have at least five days to spend here, especially if you're taking public transport. This way you could explore highlights of the coast, such as Positano, Ravello, Maiori and Furore, without rushing. The best way to travel between the towns is by ferry.

  27. The Best Places To Visit In Italy And Why

    Here are some of the best places to visit in Italy and the reasons why they are so special: ... dotted with charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. The dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear ...

  28. Positano's charm: Explore Italy's coastal paradise with this travel guide

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