From enjoying the luxury of Sorrento and Capri to discovering the ancient wonders of Pompeii and Naples, here are the best day trips from Positano.
Bella Positano! This picturesque cliffside village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast is undoubtedly one of the most stunning destinations in the country. With its pastel-colored houses cascading down to the sea and streets adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, Positano is one of my all-time favorite spots to visit in Italy. I am sure it will soon become your favorite too!
While Positano is truly enchanting, the surrounding areas boast equally amazing destinations. You can indulge in the luxurious lifestyle on the island of Capri, take a scenic boat tour along the coast, or wander through the charming backstreets of Naples. If you have a passion for history, the ancient sites of Pompeii and charming Ravello are just a short distance from Positano.
If you need assistance in planning your Italian getaway, check out my guide on where to stay in Positano. I have included my top choices for accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly apartments to opulent hotels.
Positano, along with Capri and Sorrento, features prominently in my ultimate Italy honeymoon itinerary as well as my recommended route for a southern Italy road trip.
Are you excited to learn about the best day trips from Positano? Let’s dive in!
7 Best Day Trips From Positano
Escape to Capri for the Day
First on my list of top day trips from Positano is a trip to Capri, the gem of the Tyrrhenian Sea. This breathtaking island, just a short boat ride from Positano, is where nature’s splendor meets the lavishness of upscale resorts, exquisite food, and chic boutiques.
Imagine embarking on a luxurious day trip from Positano to Capri! You could stroll hand in hand with your partner through the island’s upscale shops, where the air is filled with the scent of designer perfumes and the sounds of silk rustling as it beckons you to indulge! Picture yourself sipping limoncello under the sun in the vibrant Piazzetta while watching the world go by. Or, you might prefer to savor gourmet dishes at one of the island’s stunning cliffside restaurants.
If you’re not into shopping or dining, make sure to visit the famous Blue Grotto, one of Italy’s most remarkable attractions. Imagine relaxing in a small wooden boat while your skipper serenades you with Neapolitan songs as you navigate through a tiny stone opening into a sparkling cavern illuminated by a breathtaking natural blue light! It’s a magical experience that you must witness for yourself!
Visit the Towns of Amalfi and Ravello
Just a stone’s throw from Positano lies Amalfi, the namesake town that gives this beautiful coastal area its name. This historic town is crowned by the majestic Duomo di Amalfi, adorned with stunning Moorish arches and medieval frescoes. Take time to meander through the narrow alleyways surrounding the cathedral, where you can stumble upon charming cobblestoned squares and quaint cafés perfect for a quick espresso.
High above Amalfi, you’ll find the village of Ravello, even more breathtaking in its beauty. The gardens at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone seem to stretch into the sky, with the Mediterranean Sea sprawling majestically below, framed by colorful sculptures and rows of plants. These towns are ideal day trip destinations from Positano if you’re looking for a change of pace (if that’s even possible!). You’ll find yourself snapping endless photos!
Sorrento
This charming town is an easy day trip from Positano, and if you love lemons (as I do), Sorrento will feel like a citrus paradise! Renowned for its extensive lemon groves, Sorrento features a historic center filled with ancient churches and lively piazzas.
Sorrento is an incredibly picturesque place perfect for leisurely walks. It has a vibe that feels distinctively relaxed. You can stroll down to the Marina Grande and embark on boat tours along the coast or simply unwind, enjoying the view of fishing boats coming and going. And don’t miss the chance to taste authentic limoncello here. I highly recommend booking a tour of a 150-year-old Limoncello factory where you can learn about the making process and enjoy some samples!
If you enjoy a good drink, make sure to stop at one of the cafés around Piazza Tasso for a lovely glass of something refreshing.
Pompeii and Herculaneum
Many know the story of Pompeii: the city that was entombed in ash from Mount Vesuvius. However, it’s truly only when you visit Pompeii and its lesser-known counterpart, Herculaneum, that you can grasp the magnitude of what took place.
This ancient city, along with the equally poignant Herculaneum, is imbued with history and sorrow that is permanently etched in its stones and streets.
You can book tours that include transport from Positano, but they can be rather expensive. It’s often better to arrange your own transport once there, and I recommend purchasing an entrance ticket along with a guided tour. You’ll explore the sites with an archaeologist knowledgeable about the events that led to so many people being buried alive under the ash that fell from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It’s profoundly moving to witness the remnants of those who lived and their everyday lives, forever captured in stone.
Ischia Island
Have you ever basked in a healing thermal spring? It’s a delightful experience where nature’s warmth nourishes your body and soul. If you’re looking for a luxurious day trip from Positano, head over to Ischia Island, located beyond the glamorous Capri!
The island’s thermal springs have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties, not to mention the relief they provide for sore muscles. With over 30 luxurious spa resorts, as well as free public hot springs and thermal pools, there is no shortage of relaxation options here.
This rugged beauty is also known for its vineyards. One of the best experiences on Ischia is attending a wine tasting tour where you can sample a selection of four local wines, ranging from crisp whites ideal for sunny weather to robust reds that pair beautifully with hearty Italian dishes.
Alternatively, you can choose to explore the island at your own pace. At low tide, you can walk out to the impressive Aragonese Castle, situated on a small rocky islet connected by a causeway. Navigate through the tunnel to find a lift that takes you to the castle’s ramparts, where you can stroll along a 2-kilometer walking trail that showcases all the castle’s highlights.
Naples
Many people have a mixed relationship with Naples. Personally, I find it captivating, especially for a brief visit. The city is an exhilarating blend of Italian elegance and Mediterranean spirit… not to mention the world’s absolute best pizza!
Naples is teeming with history; I recommend visiting at least one museum or art gallery while you’re there. My personal favorite is the Archaeological Museum of Naples, which boasts incredible collections of bronze statues, frescoes, and Egyptian artifacts.
For a fantastic day trip from Positano, consider delving into Naples’ extensive underground tunnels that have been in existence for 2,400 years. Among these, you will find remarkable Roman aqueducts and even a museum that houses vintage cars.
And let’s not forget about the pizza! Neapolitan pizza is simply the best! Traditionally made with minimal toppings, a classic Napoli pizza is simply topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, all on a flavorful wheat dough.
If you’re searching for a fun activity in Naples, why not take a pizza-making class? You’ll learn to create these delightful Italian dishes and, yes, you get to indulge in what you make! What could be more satisfying?
Explore the Amalfi Coast
Exploring the charming villages and coastal paths of the Amalfi Coast is one of my favorite day trips from Positano. You can start your adventure in Atrani, just a short walk (or catch a local bus) away from Positano. The narrow lanes of this village are lined with delightful cafés and shops, and most lead down to a small shingle beach.
From the charming ambiance of Atrani, you can continue on to Cetara. The air in this authentic fishing village is rich with the smells of anchovies and the zesty scent of lemons. Known for its culinary delights, it’s a perfect place for a lunch stop.
Continuing along the coast, you come to Erchie, another secluded village featuring a quaint pebbly beach and a lively collection of fishing boats. Spend your afternoon here, getting acquainted with the locals over coffee and limoncello before heading back to Positano.
Though parts of the Amalfi Coast are bustling with tourists, these smaller villages offer a genuine taste of authentic Italian life.
With an abundance of day trips from Positano available, you may find it challenging to choose how to spend your time. The simple solution is to stay a little longer in this magical region of Italy and embrace the leisurely pace of life on the Amalfi Coast. After all, just like fine wine, limoncello, and delicious pizza, some experiences are meant to be savored, not rushed.
I hope you enjoyed discovering these exciting day trip options from Positano. If you’re looking for more tips for your journey through Italy, check out these posts:
From the stunning landscapes of Lake Como to the breathtaking coastlines of Cinque Terre and the romantic canals of Venice, alongside the cultural riches of Milan, Florence, and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!
From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe-inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast to the charming towns of Puglia and the beautiful beaches, volcanoes, and cuisine of Sicily, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!
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