Positano is the dreamy destination on everyone’s bucket list. Why? It is the epitome of the Italian “la dolce vita” with a picturesque town nestled between a beach and the cliffs of Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast. If you have to choose only one destination to visit during your Amalfi Coast trip, it is no doubt that Positano should be your first and only choice. Positano is positively stunning, with all of the old-world charm and glamour that this area is so well-known for. I will go back here time and time again, just to experience those views overlooking the pastel-colored town and the Mediterranean Sea.
I’m sure you’re already convinced to travel here after seeing Positano as one of the biggest hotspots on social media, but I’ve created this guide to make your trip a sure-thing! I’ve carefully researched all of the best spots to visit, things to do, places to stay and restaurants to eat at, so you have smooth-sailing for your perfect Positano trip!
If you’re looking to extend your trip to other Amalfi Coast destinations, take a look at some of my other travel guides: The Instagram Guide to the Amalfi Coast, 10 Most Instagrammable Places to Eat on the Amalfi Coast, 48 Hours in Amalfi, The Pocket Guide to Sorrento, How to Spend 2 Days in Naples
HOW TO GET TO POSITANO
Like all good things, getting here is not easy. Positano is somewhat secluded along the Amalfi Coast without direct access to airports or train stations. The easiest ways to get here are via ferry, rental car or a private driver.
If you are coming from abroad, you will likely start your trip in Naples. To reach Positano, you can expect the travel times below:
- Naples to Positano: 1h15 minutes driving
- Sorrento to Positano: 45 minutes driving, 45 minute ferry
- Amalfi to Positano: 40 minutes driving, 20 minute ferry
- Capri to Positano: 50 minute ferry
- Salerno to Positano: 1h25 minutes driving, 1h15 minute ferry
If you’re opting to come via car, I recommend using a private driver over a rental car. Why? The roads are winding and narrow and parking is scarce and expensive! Unless you are planning a full tour of Italy via rental car, I don’t suggest renting one to come to the Amalfi Coast. If you do decide to go on a day trip or want to have the quintessential Amalfi Drive experience, consider renting a vintage Fiat or Vespa to cruise along the coastline.
WHAT TO DO IN POSITANO
Positano is a gorgeous small town along the coast and it’s the perfect spot to relax and take it easy. You won’t find tons of attractions here, but you will find lots of magnificent views, beach clubs, beautiful shops, delicious restaurants and charming street corners… plenty to keep you entertained!
Check out my Instagram Guide to the Amalfi Coast for the best views and photo-worthy spots in Positano!
EXPLORE THE TOWN
The town center is full of winding roads and alleyways climbing up the cliffside. I loved getting lost here, although you may need to be in a bit of shape for all of the stairs! If you love shopping for local foods, handmade gifts or Italian fashion, check out the shops along Via Cristoforo Coloumbo, Piazza dei Mulini, Via del Saracino and Viale Pasitea.
HAVE A BEACH DAY
Positano has a few different beaches where you can set-up and enjoy the day with your beach babes. I recommend renting a chair and umbrella from one of the beach clubs. These typically cost around 30 Euros per chair, but they are well-worth it!
Check out the main Spiaggia di Positano for the best views of Positano on the beachside. If you’re wanting something more secluded, make a reservation at Arienzo Beach Club. This beach is a small boat ride away from Positano and it is a great little escape away from the hustle and bustle! If you decide to book here, you will be picked up on the boat shuttle in town and brought to the private beach a few minutes away! Make sure to reserve in advance because spots fill up quickly in the summertime!
BOOK A DINNER WITH A VIEW
This is a must in Positano! It doesn’t get much better than dining with a view here. Check out some of my favorite spots to dine with a view in my guide to the 10 Most Instagrammable Places to Eat on the Amalfi Coast!
HAVE A SPA DAY
There are some great spas at the luxury hotels in Positano, but my favorite spa is at Villa Fiorentino. It has the best views over Positano and you can book the private glass jacuzzi tub!
TAKE A DAY TRIP
There’s a lot to do in Positano, but if you want to see more of the Amalfi Coast, extend your stay and make Positano your home-base. Ferries frequent Positano to other coastal destinations. Some day trips you can take are: Capri, Amalfi, Praiano, Sorrento or Naples.
WHERE TO STAY
A stay in Positano is the ultimate luxury. There are plenty of glamorous coastal properties to fulfill your every need and give you the vacation you deserve! You’re going to the Amalfi Coast, so live a little and book that gorgeous spot you’ve always dreamed of staying at!
Positano has plenty of luxe options, but I’ve chosen some of my most favorite spots! Each property is heavenly with amazing service, beautiful décor and picture-perfect views for the ultimate stay!
HOTELS
- Le Sirenuse
- Villa Fiorentino
- Hotel Poseidon
- Villa Tre Ville
- Il San Pietro di Positano
- Hotel Albergo California
AIRBNB
- Casa Mia Positano
- Panoramic Villa La Scalinatella
- Sontuosa Villa con Terrazzo Panoramico
- Charming Flat with Amazing Views
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Enjoy a healthy start to your day at the cutest breakfast joint along the Amalfi Coast at Casa E Bottega.
Take in the view with a cocktail in hand at Franco’s Bar or Aldo’s Cocktail Bar at Le Sirenuse, Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon and Il San Pietro di Positano
For the best restaurant views, dine on the street at Ristorante Bruno, on the beach at Hotel Ristorante Pupetto or experience fine dining al freso at Terrazza Cele, Maestro’s or Ristorante Don Giovanni
Indulge in your Italian favorites with handmade food from Buca di Bacco, Ristorante Saraceno D’Oro, Da Vicenzo Positano, Ristorante Max or Ristorante al Palazzo.
TRAVEL TIPS
Positano is a tourist destination, so travel is a lot easier here than other destinations in Italy. English is widely spoken and there are plenty of places that accept international credit cards or have atm’s for cash withdrawal. Because Positano is so popular, it can be more expensive than the other Amalfi Coast towns, so this is something to consider if you are looking to travel on a budget.
The town is perched on the cliffside, so bring some walking shoes! To get to some of the popular viewpoints or accommodations, you will have to climb stairs. It’s not horrible, but you definitely don’t want to be too out of shape (or dehydrated!)
WHAT TO PACK
Positano is all about that coveted Italian glamour from the better days of the dolce vita era. I love dressing for my destination, so I am all for some fun Italian prints and colors that add some personality to your travel clothes!
