Nestled in an enclave along Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast, Positano is a colorful gem of a town built into the hillside. In this guide, we’ve rounded up all the top things to do in Positano, plus essential tips for your visit.
The sight of Positano’s colorful buildings cascading down a cliffside into the indigo waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea creates postcard-worthy image of the Amalfi Coast.
Positano has a way of captivating any type of traveler. The hillside town boasts colorful buildings filled with casual to opulent bars and restos and a wealth of intimate alleyways to explore. All centered around a heavenly beach, perfectly lined with parasols.
In this article we are covering all the best things to do in Positano, how to get around, where to eat and where to stay. Plus, we’ve got some insider tips so you can make the most out of your visit.
Positano Travel Guide
For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Positano, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).
- Best time to visit
- How many days do you need
- How to get there
- How to get around
- Tips for visiting
- Where to eat
- Where to stay
- What to pack
Top things to do in Positano
If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Positano, here are our top recommendations:
- Explore the Amalfi Coast by boat
- Hike the Path of the Gods
- Enjoy a seafood lunch at Da Adolfo
- Dine with a view
- Relax at the beach
Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Positano.
1. Explore the Amalfi Coast by boat
There are several ways you can go about admiring the Amalfi Coast’s jagged cliff sides, cerulean beaches, and colorful towns: ferry, small group boat tours, or by private boat.
Taking the ferry
Ferries are by far the cheapest and best way to get around during the warmer months. Plus you can avoid all the traffic on the narrow roads.
To book a ferry, head down to the ferry terminal at the pier. There are kiosks set up all along the edge for various ferry companies offering rides to neighboring towns like Amalfi, out to Capri or back to Sorrento/Naples on the opposite side of the peninsula.
There is also a boat rental stand on the beach where you can buy your ferry tickets.
Ferries between Positano and Amalfi run five times a day from about 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A one way ticket will cost just 10€ per passenger.
Boat tours of the Amalfi Coast
For a more adventurous experience, join a local on an Amalfi Coast boat tour. This half-day excursion will include food and drinks, plus you’ll have time for leisure activities like snorkeling.
Private boat tours are a luxurious and memorable way to travel the coast. Although pricey, all things considering, if you’re traveling in a group of 4-6 people, the price becomes much more attractive.
Renting a boat in Positano
You can also hire a private boat with or without a driver, directly from the beach in Positano. Just head down to the beach at the town’s center and look for the stands offering “boat rentals”. They will have loads of options and price points to choose from.
In my experience, we were always able to rent a boat immediately. However, if you are traveling during high season (June – August) you may consider arranging your boat hire the day before, just to be sure they have something available for you.
2. Hike the Path of the Gods
- Location: Bomerano to Locelle
- Distance: 10.2 km (6.4 miles), point-to-point
- Elevation gain: 600 meters (1,961 ft)
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Timing: 3-4 hours
- View trail notes on Alltrails
Hugging the coast’s dramatic cliff sides, the Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei) is one of the most beautiful walks on the Amalfi Coast and in all of Italy.
You’ll follow ancient mule routes, watching as the scenery evolves from lush terraces to sweeping views over the Amalfi and Mediterranean Coast.
The trail is straightforward and well marked, however there are several different ways you can hike this trail and important logistics you’ll want to know beforehand. We cover everything in our detailed Path of the Gods Trail Guide.
Want to save time and energy on planning?
We’ve spent a collective 6+ months living in and traveling around Italy, and we’ve been able to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!
We’ve compiled our experience to create the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary that hits the top destinations for first time visitors. Our itinerary covers the highlights of this coastal gem while based in Positano for one week.
We’ll send you our complete 1 week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your Amalfi Coast itinerary today!
3. Eat the freshest seafood for lunch at Da Adolfo
Tucked away along the private, pebbled Laurito Beach, Ristorante Da Adolfo is an unforgettable private dining experience and a Positano institution.
This culinary venture is a full day feat where you’ll spend part of the day relaxing on their private beach and the other part sampling food and wine from their curated menu of specialties.
Good to know: They only take reservations via phone (+39 089875022). If you want a beach chair/umbrella be sure to book that well in advance with your lunch reservation.
How to get there: The only way to access the restaurant is by their free boat shuttle service with a reservation. Make your way to the port in Positano and look for the small motorboat with a vibrant red fish on top that reads “Da Adolfo”.
It leaves regularly from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and returns from 4 p.m. onward. The ride is only 5-minutes down the coast to the restaurant.
Note that this restaurant (as with many others) is only open during the “summer season” in Positano, which is usually from early-May to mid-October.
4. Dine with a view
Built directly into the panoramic cliff sides, there is no better place to find incredible food with equally pleasing views. These restaurants offer some of the best views (and food!) in town.
- Buca di Bacco: Genuine Italian food that shines through its simplicity. Ask for a table on their rooftop terrace!
- Il Tridente: Situate yourself in the center of Positano’s cliffs as you indulge in Neapolitan cuisine.
- Maestro: Panoramic views of the sea hugging Positano from a fine dining atmosphere.
- La Sponda: This Michelin-star restaurant overlooks Positano’s colorful cliffside in a candlelit setting.
- Da Gabrisa: Their terrace has sweeping coastal views with a refined menu.
- Li Galli Bistro: A cheap and cheerful little spot, right on the main road leading up from the town center. This place only has a handful of road-side outdoor tables, but the views are unmatched!
5. Relax at the beach
Lazing on Positano’s pebbled beaches is a beloved Italian pastime that can be experienced two different ways: the classic lido or typical beach style.
Each beach will have a lido (beach club) and a (very) small area with free access where you can spread your towel for the day.
- Spiaggia Grande (Marina Grande Beach): The most popular (and busiest) beach in the center of town surrounded by the best restaurants.
- La Scogliera Positano: prices start at €200
- Fornillo Beach: The second largest beach in Positano with crystalline waters and scenic cliff sides.
- Pupetto Beach Club: prices start at €50
- Arienzo Beach: Secluded beach surrounded by cliff sides.
- Arienzo Beach Club Positano: prices start at €280
- One Fire Beach: This vibrant beach is just south of town in Praiano, but well worth it for the amazing location and impeccable views over Positano.
- Lido One Fire Beach: contact for pricing
6. Take a cooking class
Momma Dora and Papà Luigi have offered their Home Cooking Class for nearly 40 years at La Tagliata.
It’s one of the best ways to enjoy authentic Italian food, and they fit you right into their family with drinks, singing, and dancing.
You’ll hand pick ingredients from their garden and cook up a typical Italian lunch: bruschetta, potato gnocchi, cherry tomato sauce, eggplant parmigiana, and tiramisu. Once everything is prepared, you’ll enjoy everything you’ve made on their outdoor terrace.
7. Shop for custom leather sandals
The art of handmade leather sandals is an ancient tradition in Positano.
Artisan shops are dotted around town where you can buy premade styles or create your own custom leather sandals on the spot in about 30-minutes.
You can personalize them by choosing the style, colors, details, and even heel height, creating the perfect, one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.
8. Try limoncello
When life gave Italians giant Amalfi lemons, they made limoncello.
This Italian lemon-infused liqueur is a signature to Southern Italy. Limoncello is most commonly served as a digestif after dinner and oftentimes on the house after a meal at Positano restaurants.
You can find limoncello in many places around Positano, including in all the shops and restaurants. If you’re looking for a unique experience, why not have a local teach you how to make it by hand on this Limoncello & Lemon Marmalade Experience.
9. Scoot around the coast on a Vespa
Zipping around on a Vespa, taking in seaside vistas, and feeling the breeze along the famous windy roads is an experience most travelers dream of when visiting the Amalfi Coast.
There are a handful of places where you can rent a shiny new scooter for your adventure, but Positano Scooter is by far the best. You can rent one for up to a week and return it right in town.
Important notes: In order to rent a scooter, you need an International Driving Permit. It’s also worth noting that the roads on the coast are busy with steep climbs and hairpin turns, which is something to consider if you’ve never driven a scooter before.
As long as you have a valid driver’s license in your home country, you can get your international driving permit here, for just $30 USD. They have urgent processing available to get your digital license within 15 minutes.
10. Enjoy aperitivo on a rooftop
Taking in the views with an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink that usually comes with snacks) is a staple way to wind down a sunny day on Positano’s coast. These rooftop terraces have the best views to watch the sun go down:
- Il Tridente Cocktail Bar: Cut into the hill with atmospheric cliffside views, this bar is a stunner for drinks and aperitivo.
- Aldo’s Cocktail Bar: This sultry bar perched on top of the 5-star La Sirenuse will reel you in with its two specialties: oysters and champagne.
- Fly Lounge Bar: This stone-built bar doubles as a gastro-pub. From their terrace watch the sun set over Spiaggia Grande and all of Positano.
- Franco’s Bar: White and azure opulence coat this cliffside bar. The menu pays homage to the golden age of fine spirits and bites for aperitivo.
- Bianca Bar: This botanical bar features ingredients pulled directly from their garden that are infused into their cocktails.
Sipping on a spritz with a view will surely show you why Positano is one of the most romantic places in Italy.
11. Dance the night away at Music on the Rocks
Right off the Spiaggia Grande Beach is a unique nightclub carved directly into a cliffside.
It’s the perfect place to dance the night away inside one of the Amalfi Coast’s few disco clubs. The party will go all night, but I recommend getting there early to grab drinks and a bite on the terrace above to take in the sunset.
12. Discover the Santa Maria Assunta Church
This church is a quintessential landmark of the Positano cliffside and an important piece of the town’s cultural, religious, and architectural landscapes.
Good to know: Modest dress is required for churches and religious sites. Be sure to have your legs and shoulders covered if you wish to go inside.
13. Explore Amalfi
Just a stone’s throw from Positano is the core of the famed coast, Amalfi town. It’s full of medieval history and enticing sites.
How to get there: You can get there by bus from Positano, but note buses can be full with lengthy transit times in high season, so patience is a must. You can purchase your bus ticket at various shops in town.
To avoid all the traffic on the roads, opt to take the ferry. It costs just €10 (~$11.08 USD) for a one way ticket and takes 15-20 minutes to get to Amalfi from Positano. You can purchase your ferry tickets at the Lucibello transportation booth on the Spiaggia Grande Beach.
Things to do in Amalfi
- Wander the narrow streets: The maze of charming passageways has shops, restaurants, historic sites, and museums.
- Visit the Duomo di Sant’Andrea: An ornate cathedral with an impressive crypt and a collection of artifacts.
- Relax on the beach: The edge of town is cradled by a pebbled beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or kayaking.
- Hike to the Valle delle Ferriere: A serene nature reserve with lush flora and fauna, and cascading waterfalls.
- Marvel at the Emerald Grotto: Stalactites and stalagmites encase this vibrant pool illuminated by reflected sun rays.
14. Visit the Terrace of Infinity in Ravello
This picturesque terrace within the 11th-century Villa Cimbrone is one of the most sought-after views along the Amalfi Coast lined with interesting marble busts.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss the nearby Villa Rufolo for the gardens and famous views over Ravello, as well as the Piazza Centrale and Duomo di Ravello.
How to get there: Take the 30-minute ferry to Amalfi, then take the bus to Ravello from there. The bus ride is about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. You can purchase your bus tickets at the Tabacchi (tobacco shop) just off the Piazza Flavio Gioia where the buses pick up.
15. Day trip to Capri
An island just off the point of the Amalfi Peninsula, Capri is an easily accessible and exciting day trip from Positano.
How to get there: Ferries depart frequently from the main port in Positano (at Spiaggia Grande) for an affordable rate.
Capri gets busy, so try and book an early departure. Otherwise, you can book a guided boat tour with a local skipper.
Things to do in Capri
- Take the gondola to Monte Solaro: This mountain peak has 360-degree views of Capri and war remnants at the summit.
- Explore and shop in Capri Town: Wander boutiques, pick up some gelato, or leisure at a beach.
- Take in the views at the Gardens of Augustus: This seaside botanical garden has sweeping coastal views and peaceful footpaths.
- Take a boat ride around the island: Marvel at famous rock archways, jagged cliff sides, and pass by a scenic lighthouse.
- Tour the Blue Grotto: A popular blue cave illuminated in an eerie blue hue by reflected sunlight.
Best time to visit Positano
Positano is typically experienced from April to October when everything is open, the beaches are ripe for relaxing, and the town is lively.
Note June through August is peak season, and although it’s the most popular time to go, I recommend you avoid these months if possible. It will be VERY crowded, prices are at an all time high, and any accommodation bookings need to be made about 12 months in advance.
The best time to visit Positano is mid-September to October when everything is still open, the weather is pleasant, but the summer crowds have died down a bit.
You can visit Positano during the winter, but it’s not recommended since it’s not “open” this time of year. From October to March, the ferries aren’t running and most establishments are closed for the season.
Psst! Find out the best time to visit Italy based on seasonal weather patterns in each region and your personal travel style.
How many days do you need in Positano?
Anything from a half-day to 3 days in Positano is an ample time to experience the town. The time you spend is dependent on what you’re doing and what the rest of your itinerary looks like.
Here’s what one half to 3 days looks like in Positano:
- Half day: Shopping, relaxing at the beach or a lido
- 1 day: Beach or Path of the Gods hike, sunset dinner with drinks
- 2 days: Shopping and beach time, Path of the Gods hike, and a visit to Amalfi or Ravello
- 3 days: Spend quality time getting to experience Positano and tour more of the Amalfi Coast, perhaps a day trip to Capri
How to get to Positano
There are no direct public transport options to get to Positano, so you’ll need to use a combination of ferry, train, or bus to get there. This is best done from Naples or Sorrento.
From Naples
The most seamless and convenient way is with a private transfer from the airport in Naples. However, this is also going to be the most expensive method.
Taking the bus from Naples will be your cheapest option, but with lots of stops and a cramped bus, it’s by far the least convenient.
If you don’t mind taking a scenic route, you can take a ferry all the way from Naples (which will likely have a stop and transfer in either Sorrento or Capri). There is also an option to take a train from Naples to Sorrento, and then get a ferry from Sorrento to Positano.
From Sorrento
Sorrento is another popular hub with easy access to Positano.
From Naples, the Campania Express has a direct line to Sorrento that is quicker than the regular tourist buses. The ride is about 30-minutes and will be almost entirely tourists. The staff guides you through the entire way and there will be plenty of others hauling large bags.
From there, you can either book a ferry from Sorrento to Positano, or buy a bus ticket. The latter is a more budget-friendly option, but I’d recommend taking the ferry for ease and comfort. You can purchase bus tickets in Sorrento at the Circumvesuviana station.
How to get around in Positano
Positano is quite small, so the town itself is very walkable. The historic center of town is closed to traffic during the summer months, so expect to walk a lot.
Because it’s perched on a cliffside, the walking routes are often steep with lots and lots of stairs. If you don’t mind that, definitely walk as much as you can. However, if taking the stairs isn’t ideal, there are a handful of other ways you can get around the main areas using public transport.
The SITA buses make it easy to get around Positano and neighboring towns. This is a great option if you get tired of climbing all of those stairs.
A good alternative to the bus situation is the ferry service that runs between the coastal towns. There are several ferry companies that operate services along the coast during the “season” (April – October). You can find out schedules and purchase tickets directly at the ferry terminal.
Taxis are available but note they’re quite expensive and there are no rideshare options in Positano. One day I asked what it would cost to take us from the bus stop in the town center to the top of the hill (a literal 5 minute drive) and was quoted 30€ fixed price for a taxi.
How to use the bus to get around Positano
The Internal Positano route is the easiest and cheapest way to get around Positano if you get tired of climbing stairs.
The route makes a loop around Positano and runs every 20 minutes or so, so you’re never waiting too long. The cost of a one-way ticket is just 1.30€, you can purchase your bus tickets from the Tabacci across the street from the bus stop.
Tip: If you know you’ll be taking the bus more than once that day, you can purchase 2 sets of tickets at once. That way you won’t need to stand in line for tickets a second time.
There is also a 10€ all day bus pass you can purchase for unlimited rides in a day. However, we found we were never using the bus more than twice in a day (which is only 2.60€ in total) so the bus pass wasn’t necessary.
There are 2 main bus stops in town:
- Here is where you’ll catch the local buses; the Internal Positano loop, and the buses that go to Montepertuso, Nocelle, and Praiano.
- 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.
- Here is where you can catch the regional bus line; buses to Sorrento and Amalfi, etc.
- You’ll have to look at the schedule posted for these buses.
Do note that the bus services are often jam-packed in the summer months and don’t run exactly on schedule due to traffic congestion. You may wind up standing for the entirety of your journey as there are only about 8 seats per bus (the rest is standing room only).
Tickets are sold at Tabacci shops around town.
Also note, the buses will not let you on with food—including gelato—in hand.
Tips for visiting Positano
Here are some key things to know when planning your trip to Positano.
- Reservations are key. Positano is popular, which means nearly everything is booked up months in advance. Even the loungers at beach clubs.
- Make your accommodation reservations as soon as you decide to plan a trip to Positano. I booked 6 months in advance and had very few options for accommodation in May. We talked to many travelers who said they booked a year ahead of time.
- It’s a good idea to plan some restaurant reservations or activites before you arrive, and book 1+ months out.
- Be patient. The town gets extremely packed during the summer months so expect wait times for dinner, transit, etc.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You can expect to walk and climb a lot of stairs. Stone steps and pathways are the “roads” of the town, as with most other towns on the Amalfi Coast. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and try to pack light!
- Make use of the porters. On the note of packing light, you may want to splurge on a “porter” to transport your baggage on arrival in Positano. The porters are from an official company, dressed in white and blue polos, that will meet you right at the ferry terminal and offer their services. It costs 10€ per bag, but we found it to be 100% worth it not to haul our own baggage up the 1,700+ stairs to our hotel.
- Carry cash. Some businesses don’t accept cards. Plus, cash will come in handy for smaller purchases.
- Dinner is served late. Most restaurants aren’t open until 7 p.m. and serve dinner all the way until 11:30 p.m. (and sometimes later during the summer months).
- Use a VPN. Some of the official websites for transportation and attractions are only available in Italy, so you may need to use a VPN to buy tickets ahead of time.
- Check the weather before you pack. Though we call it the “summer season,” Positano can still be quite chilly during early spring or late fall. I’ve visited 3 times, twice in May and once in September. Each time I’ve had vastly different weather and even been very cold in May.
Where to eat in Positano
From Michelin-star fine dining to small eateries run by nonnas, these restaurants in Positano showcase the flavors of the region.
- Buca di Bacco: Genuine Italian food that shines through its simplicity. Ask for a table on their rooftop terrace!
- Casa e Bottega: Family-owned bistro with healthy breakfast and lunch options. (Think smoothie bowls and avocado toast!)
- Da Adolfo: Unique, decades-old restaurant on a private beach. The only way to access it is via a free boat ride with your reservation (look for the big red fish!) at the Positano pier.
- Li Galli bistrot: A hillside bistro with some of the best views in town and only about 8 tables. Makes for a great lunch spot! (They also require you to order one dish per person to sit.)
- Misaki Sushi: I stumbled upon this place when I wanted an early dinner and most of the other restaurants were still closed. It’s a great option if you’ve had your fill of carbs.
- Il Tridente: Authentic meat and seafood dishes with unparalleled views over Positano.
- Saraceno d’Oro: This place wows with simple, local ingredients. Be sure to book a table on the terrace!
- Maestro: This fine dining treasure offers a farm-to-table menu specializing in regional cuisine. Note the restaurant has a boat service that will take you directly to Positano harbor.
- La Sponda: This hillside hotspot is dubbed “a culinary love letter to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Vesuvius.”
- Chez Black: Beachside seafood restaurant with Mediterranean delicacies.
- NEXT2: One of the best restaurants in Positano with a fine, sophisticated regional menu and a Michelin star.
- Da Vincenzo Positano 1958: Michelin star restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and dinner/wine pairings. Advanced reservations are encouraged.
- Collina Positano Bakery: Gelato and sweet treats to die for.
Where to stay in Positano
No matter where you stay in Positano, it’s EXPENSIVE. An average hotel room in Positano is going to cost a heck of a lot more than it will even in Rome or Florence. Keep this in mind when looking at our suggestions below.
If you want to stay in the town, you need to start booking at least 6 months in advance, but we heard of many people booking a year out.
To save money, you may consider staying in nearby towns, like Montepertuso or Nocelle, that are easily accessed by bus.
Hostel stay: Hostel Brikette
This hostel is at the top of Positano, which means the views from the terrace are superb. There are restaurants nearby, free Wifi, onsite bar, well-kept common area, and a shuttle service to the Praiano nightlife area.
Budget-friendly hotel: B&B Il Canneto
This is where I stayed on my most recent trip to Positano. While there is nothing particularly nice or luxurious about this hotel, it’s hard to beat the price to get a private hotel room with a sea view! It was also very high up, but across the street from a SITA bus stop, making it convenient to take the Internal Positano bus to get around.
Mid-range Airbnb stay: Villa Capricorno
This elegant apartment has a massive terrace, full kitchen, and spacious living areas situated quietly on the west side of town, but still close to all the action. There are a few restaurants nearby, small shops for snacks, and bus stops that top off everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Mid-range Airbnb stay: Villa Paradiso
Situated in a beautiful part of Positano, this villa is atmospheric and quiet, and only a short walk from the town center and beaches. The cobblestone terrace is a highlight of the property among its laid back coastal vibe. Enjoy a full service kitchen, onsite garden, free Wifi, nearby restaurants with your picturesque escape.
Mid-range hotel stay: Hotel Casa Albertina
This is another hotel I’ve personally stayed at and loved! It’s right in the center of Positano, between the two main beaches and close to all the best restaurants. The view from the terrace is worth the stay in and of itself. It also offers free Wifi, comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast (with unbeatable views!!).
Splurge hotel: Casa Buonocore
As one of the most enamoring stays on Positano’s cliffside, this boutique hotel comes with a quiet garden, panoramic terrace with unparalleled views, and pristine rooms. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the beach and it’s near a variety of restaurants and bars.
Mega-splurge hotel: Le Sirenuse
You’ll recognize the setting of this idyllic hotel from your Instagram feed as it’s a place all of the influencers rave about. With unbeatable views, this iconic hotel perched into the hillside is one of a kind and just might be worth the splurge if you’re visiting Positano for a special occasion.
What to pack for traveling to Positano
Don’t forget these essential items for a more comfortable trip to Positano.
- Super comfortable walking shoes or sandals
- Insulated water bottle
- Day pack – if you intend to hike the Path of the Gods
- Reef safe sunscreen
- Sport sandals or water shoes for rocky beaches
- Swimwear
- Microfiber towel
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Camera or GoPro and tripod (trust us, you’ll want to capture these views!)
- Light jacket for chilly evenings
Be sure to download our complete packing list for Italy! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely FREE, so why not!?
Round up of the best things to do in Positano
Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Positano so you can see everything in one place.
- Explore the Amalfi Coast by boat
- Hike the Path of the Gods
- Take a cooking class
- Da Adolfo Positano
- Shop for custom leather sandals
- Try limoncello
- Positano beaches
- Scoot around the coast on a Vespa
- Dine with a view
- Rooftop terrace sunset
- Music on the Rocks
- Santa Maria Assunta Church
- Amalfi
- 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
Save this article on Pinterest for later!
We want to hear from you!
Have you ever been to Positano before? What was your experience like? Which of the things to do in Positano on this list are going straight to the top of your bucket list? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!