A trip to the Amalfi Coast wouldn't be complete without a visit to Positano. We've all seen the incredible photos of the picturesque beach and pastel-colored village, and it absolutely lives up to the hype in person. Despite being a rather small town, there are so many things to see and fun activities to do here to get the most out of your trip. Having visited 3 times now, here's my curated list of all of the best things to see and do when visiting:
BEST BEACHES IN POSITANO
photos by gaiaonthego
Marina Grande
The most iconic beach in Positano known for its dark sand and picturesque backdrop, Marina Grande is located right in town. Sunbed rentals are available at L’incanto for €25, with an additional €5 charge for a towel.
Arienzo Beach Club
Hop on a short boat ride and escape to the secluded Arienzo Beach Club! Indulge in delectable pasta while enjoying the serene surroundings. they offer a full restaurant menu with amazing pasta, and you'll likely need to book in advance through their website. Packages begin at €78 and include an umbrella and sunbed, a towel, a main course, drinks, and dessert.
Fornillo Beach
Positano's second largest, beach, you can reach it by foot from Spiaggia Grande or by sea from the same pier. If you follow the pathway right above where the ferries dock, you'll find this secluded beach with fewer crowds.
Laurito Beach
A small coastal gem, you can walk here by following the stairs across from Hotel San Pietro. Here, you'll find a small section of free beach as well as two bathing establishments, each with a restaurant and other services.
HIKE THE PATH OF THE GODS
Famous for its jaw-dropping views of Positano, Capri, and the Amalfi coast, the Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei) is a trail that stretches from Agerola to Nocelle, two fractions of Positano.
ZIP DOWN THE COASTLINE ON A VESPA
Imagine zipping down the world's most beautiful coastline with no car or window to obstruct your view, and making stops at wherever you please. I promise that this experience will make your trip truly unforgettable! You can rent a scooter with this tour and embark on a journey at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and charming villages along the way.
photos by gaiaonthego
WHERE TO SHOP IN POSITANO
In Positano, you'll find the urge to resist shopping nearly impossible, as the streets are lined with boutiques and souvenir shops. Some of the best items to get in Positano are linens, ceramics, handmade sandals, and anything lemon-scented! Don't miss Pepitos, one of the oldest boutiques known for its classic designs and quality linen clothing. Ceramica Assunta, in business since 1948, boasts a stunning array of hand-painted ceramics that can be shipped worldwide. For dresses crafted from local lace and crochet, Temptation Positano is a must-visit and has a higher price range. Antica Santoria offers a bohemian take on linen beachwear at more affordable prices, while Emporio Sirenuse features chic clothes and accessories embodying the essence of the Amalfi Coast. Other notable stops include Ceramica Casola, Marilù, and Sapori e Profumi di Positano, each offering unique finds that capture the essence of Positano's charm.
TAKE A CERAMICS WORKSHOP
With expert guidance and a picturesque setting overlooking the sea, you can get a hands-on experience of Positano's traditional ceramic making with this locally-run ceramics workshop. Learn the art of majolica technique and create your own masterpiece while sipping on local limoncello. I seriously cannot think of a better souvenir!
photos by gaiaonthego
TAKE A WINE TOUR
If you have the time, I highly suggest taking a day trip into the Amalfi Coast wine country! This winery tour takes you through the Irpinia wine district, where you'll stop at two wineries, tour ancient cellars, learn about local wine production, and of course the best part taste 6 local wines. If you're looking to mix ancient history with tipsy tastings, this tour takes you through the ancient ruins of Pompeii with a winery visit on the volcanic slopes. You certainly can't leave Italy without tasting all of the local delicacies, and the Amalfi region is known to produce some of the best wines in Italy.
RENT A VINTAGE FIAT 500 FOR THE DAY
If riding a vintage Fiat 500 through the Amalfi coast isn't at the top of your bucket list, it absolutely should be! Straight out of your wildest Italian dreams, you can embark on a private journey through the picturesque coastlines on a vintage Fiat 500, with this tour stopping at charming villages and viewpoints as you please.
TAKE A COOKING CLASS
One of my absolute favorite things to do when visiting anywhere in Italy is taking a local cooking class. In Positano, you can learn the secrets of traditional Italian cuisine from a local host and savor the flavors of homemade gnocchi and tiramisù with this class. Or, you can try your hand at making two kinds of local pasta shapes - Ravioli and Spaghetti - with this course taught in a local's home. Even after living in Italy for so long, I love learning about all of the local culinary traditions and different pasta shapes in each region.
LEARN TO MAKE LIMONCELLO
I'm sure you've heard about Limoncello, the iconic lemon liqueur of the Amalfi Coast. When you arrive in Positano you'll notice every single shop has Limoncello bottles you can take home as souvenirs, and nearly every restaurant will offer you this digestive liqueur at the end of your meal. However, instead of buying the tourist Limoncello bottles, you can join a local chef for a hands-on lesson and learn the traditional techniques of preparing this refreshing beverage. This class includes a 5-course lunch and plenty of lemon beer and limoncello tasting!
photos by gaiaonthego
ENJOY A BOAT DAY
In my opinion, no trip to Positano (or any trip for that matter) is complete without a day out on the boat. This tour is one of my favorites, as it offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the charming seaside towns. If you're looking for something more romantic or intimate, this tour offers a private full-day trip around the coastline complete with a glass of Prosecco and a stop at an exclusive restaurant on the sea. If spending the whole day on the boat isn't your thing, you can choose to end your day with a sunset cruise where you'll see one of the most beautiful sunsets Italy has to offer. Explore the coastline from a new perspective, dive into the turquoise waters, explore hidden sea caves, and soak up some sun along the way.
photos by gaiaonthego
TAKE A DAY TRIP TO CAPRI
If you'll be in Positano for more than a day, you'll want to take a trip over to Capri. With a full-day boat tour, you'll get a chance to swim in the infamous blue grotto cave, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy local prosecco and Limoncello. Trust me that by the time the tour is over, you won't want to get off!
photos by gaiaonthego
ROOFTOPS TO ENJOY AN APERITIVO WITH A VIEW
Francos Bar
Perched high above Positano with a breathtaking view of the town, Francos Bar is part of Le Sirenuse Hotel and offers a trendy and chic atmosphere. Serving up classic cocktails and upbeat music, it attracts younger couples and hotel guests eager to indulge in its old-fashioned charm. There is no food menu, just drinks, and make sure to arrive right at 5 PM when the bar opens if you want to secure a front table overlooking the view!
Champagne Bar at Le Srienuse
Nestled within the prestigious Le Sirenuse hotel, the Champagne Bar offers a serene retreat overlooking Positano town from its elevated western perch. With a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, this spot stood out as a favorite among our Positano adventures, accessed via the hotel lobby and descending to its outdoor terrace. Unlike the bustling energy of Franco’s, here you'll find creative cocktails like the delightful pink grapefruit Mezcal mule alongside a tantalizing raw bar and full food menu, making it a versatile choice for both drinks and dining. For those seeking a quieter alternative to Franco’s during sunset or La Sponda restaurant, the Champagne Bar offers a comparable view and culinary experience without the crowds.
photos by gaiaonthego
Il Tridente Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
Located in Hotel Poseidon, Il Tridente Cocktail Bar & Restaurant treats visitors to unparalleled vistas of Positano's colorful houses and the glistening Mediterranean Sea. Boasting a rooftop restaurant showcasing top-rated Mediterranean cuisine rooted in Neapolitan tradition, sourced from local, fresh ingredients, alongside a chic cocktail bar and terrace, it offers a multifaceted dining experience for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or simply evening drinks accompanied by live music. With its comfortable lounges and panoramic views, it's the perfect setting to savor delicious cocktails while soaking in the enchanting ambiance of Positano.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotels worth the splurge:
Perched along the cliffs of Positano, Il San Pietro di Positano offers a luxurious retreat with a private beach, fitness center, and Michelin-starred dining. Elegantly furnished rooms boast terraces with sea views, while the restaurant serves delectable dishes reflecting the flavors of the Amalfi Coast. With impeccable service and breathtaking surroundings, it's the perfect destination for an unforgettable escape.
Perks when booking through me:
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during your stay
Daily Buffet Breakfast
Room upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
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Nestled in the heart of Positano, Le Sirenuse offers elegant rooms with private balconies, just steps away from the beautiful beaches of the Amalfi Coast. Indulge in culinary delights at the Michelin-starred restaurant and unwind at the oyster bar. With added luxuries like a free swimming pool, hammam, and fitness center, it's the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication for your coastal getaway.
Perks when booking through me:
Complimentary welcome bottle of Italian Spumante
$100 USD equivalent Spa Credit to be utilized during your stay
Daily breakfast
Room upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
Perched among the cliffs, Villa Treville offers opulent rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Experience unparalleled luxury with complimentary access to a private beach and gym, while staying connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Enjoy an exclusive retreat where every detail is crafted to immerse you in the beauty of coastal living.
Perks when booking through me:
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during your stay
Room upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
Daily Full breakfast
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
Indulge in luxury at the 5-star Hotel Villa Franca, offering mesmerizing views of the sea and Positano from its hilltop location. It offers amenities like a rooftop pool, spa, and fully equipped fitness center, and complimentary shuttle service to the town center.
Perks when booking through me:
Complimentary welcome drink, fruit platter, and Italian sparkling wine
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during your stay
Room upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
Daily breakfast served in O'RO Incanto lounge or via room service
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out