Nestled in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is renowned for its breathtaking seaside views. This charming town boasts local delicacies such as Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams), Pesce alla Griglia (grilled fish), and Limoncello, a delightful drink you simply must try. My husband and I often find ourselves returning to this picturesque paradise, captivated by its beauty.
If you’re feeling inspired to plan your trip to Positano, it’s easy to see why this destination draws thousands of visitors each year. Let us help make your Positano adventure as enjoyable as possible by sharing our recent experiences on this stunning island.
If you’re looking for additional places to explore in Italy, be sure to check out our Travel Guide for helpful suggestions. Below, we’ll share the highlights of our unforgettable visit.
WHAT TO DO IN POSITANO
Although Positano is a small town, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Just be prepared for the steep staircases! Getting around the town requires a bit of climbing and descending due to its unique layout.
Master the art of cooking pizza and tiramisu in a local home.
Immerse yourself in the Italian way of life by sharing a meal at a communal table and soaking in the authentic charm of the town. These memorable cooking experiences typically last around three hours.
Have a Beach Day
Positano attracts many tourists, especially during peak season, so be prepared for crowds. Consider renting a private space near the port, where you can enjoy a chair and umbrella for around 40 euros. Dive into the turquoise water and marvel at the vibrant marine life.
Book a Dinner with a Spectacular View
Don’t miss this incredible experience — it’s truly unforgettable!
BEST TIME TO VISIT FOR A POSITANO VACATION
With a local population of 4,000, Positano sees approximately 12,000 tourists daily during its peak seasons in July and August. Although the tourist season runs from April to the end of October, I recommend visiting in May, September, or October for a more relaxed atmosphere and pleasant weather. Many hotels and shops may be closed outside these peak months.
Pro tip: Before booking your flight, consult a tour operator like Tour Italy Now.
They can suggest the best dining spots, hotels with breathtaking views, and must-do activities.
HOW TO GET TO POSITANO
Here’s a rough comparison of travel times to Positano by boat and car from various locations. Keep in mind that factors such as traffic, weather, and boat schedules can affect these times. If you are traveling internationally, Naples is your primary gateway to Positano.
- Sorrento to Positano: 30 to 40 minutes by car or ferry
- Amalfi to Positano: 30 to 40 minutes by car and 20 to 30 minutes by ferry
- Naples to Positano: 1 to 2 hours by car and 30 to 40 minutes by ferry
- Ravello to Positano: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
- Capri to Positano: 30 to 40 minutes by ferry
If you choose land transport, consider hiring a rental car with a driver, as the roads can be narrow and winding. Parking can be limited and expensive. Renting a car is not recommended if you only plan to explore the Amalfi Coast for a day, but if you stay for a longer period, arrange a tour with a travel operator for ease of travel.
PLACEST TO VISIT DURING YOUR POSITANO VACATION
While Spiaggia Grande is beautiful, Fornillo Beach offers a more serene atmosphere. The scenic walk along the coast from the main beach takes about fifteen to twenty minutes, and the views along the way are delightful. Fornillo Beach tends to be less crowded, making beach chair rentals more affordable, and it provides a peaceful setting with stunning coastal views.
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta
This church features striking yellow walls and a beautifully tiled dome. Five arches connect the nave to two aisles with chapels on either side. On the right, you’ll find chapels dedicated to Saint Blaise, the Immaculate, Saint Anthony, Saint Anna, and the Circumcision. The artwork in the Circumcision chapel is by Fabrizio Santafede. The left side includes chapels for the Crucifix, the Annunciation, Saint Vitus, and Saint Nicholas of Bari. The Saint Stephen chapel near the high altar houses a Madonna with Child statue. Be sure to admire the church’s golden accents and the magnificent dome that illuminates the altar, creating a heavenly ambiance.
- Positano’s Narrow Streets
Take a leisurely stroll through the charming narrow streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. This maze of streets offers unique shopping and dining opportunities.
You can find a local gallery showcasing a mix of contemporary and traditional Italian art, reflecting the town’s vibrant artistic spirit.
- Marina Grande Beach – Positano
As the main beach in Positano, Marina Grande is lively and cosmopolitan, offering excellent opportunities for fantastic photos. This beach is home to the well-known discotheque, Music On the Rocks, along with numerous bars and restaurants that enhance the social scene. The three-hundred-meter-long beach is a hub for locals and celebrities alike, making it a vibrant spot for visitors. Enjoy swimming facilities and access to shuttle boats for excursions along the coast from this beach.
TRAVEL TIPS
Positano is a stunning destination that offers a blend of nature and luxury. With over 12,000 visitors daily during peak seasons, the breathtaking cliffs and exquisite cuisine can quickly become overwhelming without proper planning. Reach out for your free consultation today!
Keep in mind that Positano can be more expensive than other areas of the Amalfi Coast due to its popularity. Don’t forget to sample the famous local lemons and consider taking some lemon-based products home as souvenirs.
WHAT TO PACK
When packing for Positano, consider the weather and the duration of your stay. For more tips, refer to our Italian Checklist. To blend in with the locals, pack colorful attire, including vibrant shorts, tank tops, off-shoulder blouses, and nautical stripes. Avoid black clothing; instead, opt for white, beige, tan, salmon pinks, and bright yellows. Don’t forget to bring long, flowy dresses and elegant outfits for the evenings.
Want to learn more about planning the perfect Italian vacation? Contact us today!
Priscila Siano is the Marketing Director at Tour Italy Now, an online tour operator specializing in travel to Italy. She is a recognized expert in transforming dream Italian vacations into reality for clients.
