My Positano Travel Guide – Best Things To Do In Positano

This article is a list of the best things to do in Positano travel guide.  My Positano Travel Guide will consist of Positano’s best places I’ve discovered throughout my travels. Positano is by far one of my favorite towns in Italy, it’s probably in my top 5 or top 10 list.

This comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your time on the Amalfi Coast.  You won’t regret it!

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You’ll definitely have a wonderful time filled with an abundance of amazing and picturesque views, beautiful beaches, picturesque architecture, a variety of beautiful hotels to stay in, and delicious food to enjoy.


I can never get enough of Positano.  Even looking at my old travel photos, I still find it hard to believe that this legendary luxury destination apparently was once a poor fisherman’s village. 

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Some travelers, though, might skip visiting Positano, simply because it’s known as a very touristy town, with expensive accommodation, food, and shops.  But if you’re already visiting the South Of Italy, you might as well experience and explore Positano.

I’ve always dreamed of going on a holiday to this picturesque Italian village for as long as I can remember.  Before I got to see it with my own eyes, I viewed so many different photos of Positano on Instagram, however, none of those compare to the real thing.  

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The place is comparable to Santorini, as there is an abundance of colorful houses, amazing restaurants, a pebbled beachfront, and narrow streets consisting of a variety of boutiques, and flowers.  I already cannot wait to visit again

1. Best Things To Do In Positano – Positano Travel Guide

There are lots of things to do in Positano.  The cheapest things to do are obviously just to explore, sightsee, and walk around the town on foot.  It’s a very walkable town, though, keep in mind that it’s a hilly town with lots of stairs, narrow little alleyways, stairs, and hills to get to most of the places you want to see.

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However, if you really want to explore and discover the hidden grandeur of Positano and the Amalfi Coast, there are a variety of different excursions with reputable travel guide tours that I’ve used during my stay

You have the option to choose a few hours, half a day, a full-day tour, or a few days of tours in these types of excursions.  

The best thing about choosing these guided tours is that you get to thoroughly discover and visit the Amalfi, Ravello, Positano, Sorrento, Salerno, Pompei, Naples, and among others. 

These guided tours typically include: –

  • All the necessary help and assistance for the entire duration of the tour
  • Admission fees for museums and other places
  • Full-day transportation with Mercedes or by boat and your professional driver, and captain
  • Pick-up and drop off at the port or at your designated hotel/accommodation
  • All taxes are included
  • Gas and expenses are also included

1.1 Private Day Tour Along The Amalfi Coast

The private day tour along the Amalfi Coast was by far my favorite guide tour in a single day.  I got to visit Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento.  The private driver spoke perfect English, and he provided excellent service whilst I had the joy of discovering four of the most beautiful villages in Italy. 

The trip was an absolute pleasure with the mesmerizing sight of the coast.  My private driver was very passionate and knowledgeable.  Everywhere I looked was just full of characteristic white and colorful homes, with splendid and enchanting panoramic views.

1.2 Full-Day Private Boat Tour: Positano and Amalfi Coast

Exploring Positano and the Amalfi Coast by a Private Boat Tour is one of the best things to do in Positano, as you get to see the unique coastline from the sea, with magnificent views of all the colorful houses and beautiful mountains from the sea. 

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And the opportunity to discover the many seaside villages with the option to stop for a swim from the boat in a variety of coves and bays.

You get to discover the best of the Coast through the eyes of a local.  You also get to swim in lagoons, so make sure that you wear some nice bikinis under your clothes, and pack a towel in your backpack or handbag, otherwise, some private boat tours do offer a free towel to use.  

You also get to discover grottos and caves which is only accessible by sea.  Also, you get to see a beautiful fjord that leads you to a hidden beach.  The hidden beaches are where locals and fishermen keep their tiny fishing boats.

You get to see Sofia Loren’s Mediterranean style villa.  The bustling seaside village of Amalfi also won’t be missed by boat.

You get to explore Atrani which is the smallest town in all of Italy along with its picturesque Piazzetta. And then you’ll be headed to Marmorata where you’ll discover a waterfall which flows into the sea.  Thereafter, you get to see some quaint seaside villages of Minori that consist of colorful beach umbrellas as well as Italian men fishing off the pier.  And finally, you will also get to experience the busy touristy town of Maiori.  

And most importantly, you get to swim under the waterfall of Marmorata and see the wonderful views of Ravello from the sea.

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You also get to see and visit the neighboring port such as Nerano and Praiano with a first-hand look at the beautiful Amalfi Coast.

You’ll also get to see Norman towers which date back from the 13th century that’s mixed with modern-day luxury hotels and villas.

Your captain will also be able to guide you through to Li Galli private islands.  That’s where the Jet Setters prefer to indulge in a private hideaway vacation (perhaps you might meet someone there).  You can also swim in there and bask in the Mediterranean sunshine.

One of the best things about this excursion is that your captain is your local private boat tour guide.  This means that he will be extremely knowledgeable about the history and all the things go on about the area.  And most importantly he will be able to show you the true beauty of the Amalfi Coast without having to worry about wandering around yourselves and queuing up the long lines, and traffic.

Your captain will also be able to recommend the best culinary restaurant paradise in Italy for lunch that is situated along the seaside.  The seaside restaurants are easily accessible by boat and on foot.  

So, what are you waiting for?  Awaken your sense by experiencing the true La Bella Vita with this relaxing, fun, and interactive excursion.  Don’t miss out on a private boat tour, as your captain will drop you off and pick you up at the port when you’re ready or at a designated time.  Stopping by different villages and ports, you can also meet your captain back at the boat once you’ve done your sightseeing.

I would be remiss without mentioning that Positano is a tourist town so tours can be quite expensive with costs ranking up for everything, including beach towel hire, so shop around before you buy. It may very well be a once in a lifetime experience so make the most of it. 🙂

2. Where To Stay In Positano?

Thinking about where to stay in Positano?  There are lots of hotels and apartments to choose from, however, they get fully booked really fast especially during spring, and summer, and as its a popular tourist destination.

The best place to stay in Positano is obviously closer to the main beach (Spiaggia Grande) with magnificent overlooking views of the coast, beach, restaurants, and colorful buildings.  Though, be aware that it can get very expensive around that area.

If you’re on a budget you can certainly find hotels that are farther away from the main beach.  That might require you to catch a bus, taxi, or hire a car to get around if you are farther away.  

Alternatively, you can either stay in Naples or Sorrento which is a little bit farther away from Positano but you can definitely find much cheaper accommodation there especially if you’re staying longer.  It takes about 45 minutes to get to Positano either from Naples or Sorrento by boat.  It takes 35 minutes to get to Positano from Sorrento by car, and it would take a 1-hour drive from Naples to Positano.

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2.1 Hotel Ancora – Where To Stay In Positano?

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Hotel Ancora is one of the most sought-after hotels in Positano as it sits on a cliff that overlooks the magnificent colorful buildings of Positano, and the Mediterranean Sea.

If you are carrying heavy suitcases, I highly recommend taking a taxi or hiring a car to get to the Hotel Ancora as it is located on a cliff.  You will struggle climbing up on several staircases with your heavy luggage if you arrive by ferry at the main port of Positano.  The port is situated below the main beach (Spiaggia Grande).

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Hotel Ancora is also very close to the main beach (Spiaggia Grande) only 500 m away.  It is centrally situated in Positano.  You’ll find a variety of shops, and restaurants very close within walking distance.  Less than an hour’s drive from Pompeii, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and Salerno.  

It is nicely decorated in a traditional style of the Amalfi Coast along with all the common facilities including air conditioning and a private bathroom, and spacious rooms that feature find arches and columns.

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Some of the rooms come with a jacuzzi so you can enjoy it after a long day of sightseeing and walking.  All rooms also come with tiled floors, satellite TV, and free internet wifi access.  

Hotel Ancora is a 4-star hotel that serves an amazing continental breakfast buffet every morning.  Their food is so delicious that you would want to keep coming back for more before heading out on a tour.  They include a variety of fresh bread, fresh pastries, fruits, cereals, and beverages.

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Find out Hotel Ancora’s best price per night with a discounted price and other features that come with it.

2.2 Le Sirenuse – Where To Stay In Positano?

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Le Sirenuse is another popular sought after hotel in Positano as it’s just 200 m from the coast at the beautiful beaches.  It is very well centrally located with shops, and restaurants close by.  

Le Sirenuse also features an oyster bar, a Michelin-starred restaurant to indulge in, along with elegant rooms with a private balcony that comes with magnificent views.  

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The hotel also comes with a free swimming pool, hammam, and fitness center so you can get your exercise done (not that you would need it because Positano as it is full of staircases that should keep your heart pumping while walking around the town.

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The rooms come with common facilities including air conditioning, white-themed decor, satellite flat-screen TV with a Blue-ray player, an iPod dock, and most of all a fully equipped en-suite bathroom along with a large spa bath and soft slippers.

They also offer delicious food, a sauna, and massages so you can enjoy it throughout the day.

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Find out here to get your best price per night with a discounted price for Le Sirenuse along with other features.




2.3 Buca Di Bacco – Where To Stay In Positano

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Buca Di Bacco is another hotel where I stayed.  It’s situated just above Positano’s Marina Grande the main beach, perfectly framed by rocky hills and sandy beaches.

This hotel offers magnificent Tyrrhenian Sea views from the rooms balcony as well as the main balcony and the restaurant where you can even sit to enjoy your breakfast.

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The restaurant offers delicious food to choose from with amazing sea views.  The rooms are fantastic as it offers a classic decor with traditional dark-wood furnishings.  Each room comes with air conditioning, satellite TV, locker, views of the Spiaggia Grande beach, colorful buildings, and restaurants.  

The hotel also offers a 24-hour service.  This is probably one of the most affordable hotels just above the main beach and very close to the shops and restaurants.

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Find out their best price and discounted price per night so you can enjoy your holiday in Positano. 

3. How Long Should You Stay In Positano?

I highly recommend staying in Positano for at least 3-4 days or longer if you prefer to make it your long holiday destination.  It’s a perfect little town to make as your base as it’s so close to other neighboring beaches, coastal towns, and cities within the South Of Italy. 

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However, please be aware that Positano is a very expensive city in terms of accommodation, shopping and eating out, but there are still affordable hotels to choose from. 

Just make sure that you book your accommodation well in advance preferably between 8 months to 1 year early as mentioned above, most accommodation in Positano and the Amalfi Coast get booked really fast.  To get the best price and discounted price, I also suggest booking 1 year early.

If you’re on a budget, staying in Naples, or Sorrento might be a better option for you as your base.  There are plenty of different options to get to and from Naples and Sorrento for you to be able to make the most of your Positano experience.

 

4. Where To Eat In Positano?

Some of my favorite restaurants to eat at in Positano is right by the main beach (Spiaggia Grande), though, most restaurants in that area are very pricey.

Also, another restaurant to have breakfast and lunch at is just above where the many little shops in the alleyways.

Da Ferdinando

Da Ferdinando is one of my favorite restaurant beach bars situated at Fornillo beach.  It’s one of the best beaches and restaurants to indulge in as it’s not so crowded with tourists.  Mostly locals are enjoying their meals throughout the day and while the beach beds are just at the front, they naturally lie on the sunbeds to soak up the Mediterranean sunshine.

I love their seafood and breakfast menu there.  If you’re staying by the main beach, you can easily take a walk through a little hike up on side of the coast to get to Fornillo where Da Ferdinando is located.  Otherwise, there’s always a free boat that picks up and drops off from the main beach to Fornillo.  Just look for a sign where it says Da Ferdinando.

Spiaggia Bar Ristorante La Marinella

We had an early dinner at La Marinella restaurant.  We had mussels pasta and pizza.  It was delicious, though it was a little bit too salty for my taste. 

Their food was quite affordable including main meals and drinks for two.

The view was fantastic from where we were seated.  It’s located on a cove with a front beach and an incredible view.  

Buca Di Bacco Restaurant

Buca Di Bacco Restaurant is one of the restaurants situated right by the main beach (Spiaggia Grande).  They serve one of the best seafood, as well as meat and vegetables.  

You can also sit on the terrace enjoying your Italian lunch or dinner while indulging in the amazing views.  

The staff was truly amazing with fantastic service.  You’d definitely feel like at home.

They also offer one of the best hotels in Positano as mentioned above. 

5. The best Positano Beaches to Sunbath and Relax

Fornillo Beach

Fornillo Beach is mostly packed with locals.  If you’re on a budget and would like to lay down on sunbeds to sunbathe and relax by the beach, then I highly recommend walking from the main Positano beach (which takes about 7-10 minutes) or by a free boat ride to Fonillo Beach.

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Fornillo Beach is the stretch of coastline which has been known as the most beautiful in the entire Mediterranean.  With green and rocky mountains plunge dramatically within the Mediterranean blue sea.

They offer a much affordable price for each chair (sunbed) about 12.50 euros per person and in addition to that the showers and towels are free.  You also get to choose a variety of restaurants that are situated in there such as Da Ferdinando, and La Marinella is the two of my favorites.

In the past, I heard that it’s mostly just tourists who flock to sunbath in that area, however, lately tourists have been going in there to sunbath and relax so it can get crowded and chairs get booked really fast.

I highly recommend going in there early morning so you can get your own chair and make the most of the view, the sun, and the beach.

Most locals there are very friendly, and no doubt you get to meet them and start a conversation as I did.

Spiaggia Grande (the main beach)

Spiaggia Grande is one of the most beautiful beaches in Positano.  There are lots of chairs or sunbeds for hire (25 euro per person) for a whole day for you to sit or lay on to sunbathe, relax, and then enjoy the beach and the views.  However, the main beach can get packed with tourists.  

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Fortunately, not many tourists and not many locals would actually spend 25 euros to hire a chair because let’s face it a 25 euro per person on a chair is quite expensive.  So, instead, most people would bring their own towels and just lay on the pebble stones.  Again, on the pebble stones, it gets so packed with many tourists that you’re almost so close to each other leaving you without much personal space.

If you’re not on a budget, I highly recommend hiring one of those beautiful chairs at the main beach because you do get to have more personal space.  In addition to that, you also get to have the most magnificent views, and you can easily walk up to the restaurants, or to an ice cream shop to get yourself some gelatos and drinks. 

However, keep in mind that during high seasons the chairs can still get crowded so be sure to go in there early in the morning.

Also, showers and towels are not free.  

6. Walking Around The Town & Shop Around The Small Streets

One of the best things to do in Positano is simply just to walk around even though it consists of several or more like a hundred flights of stairs!  And stroll around the many little alleyways, little streets where you’ll stumble upon boutique shops, gelatos, small supermarkets, and restaurants.

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You will be enchanted away by the beauty of the little alleyways, also surrounded by beautiful flowers, ceramics, and dresses.  Everywhere you look you’d always want to take lots of photos.

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Note that most boutique shops, supermarkets, and restaurants in the main town of Positano are very expensive.  It’s very rare to find a cheap place to eat, and shop.  You would really need to be window-shopping everywhere in order to find the best bargain.

We walked a lot from the bottom to the top of Positano during the first day of our stay.  We didn’t mind the number of steps, and staircases we had to endure whilst sightseeing.  However, at first, I was quite disappointed by the fact that most of the shops and restaurants we visited were very pricey or simply overpriced. 

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And I honestly think that Positano is mostly just catered for tourists, a money-making town of Italy, quite similar to what you can experience in Venice.  Although, Venice is bigger and it’s also known as a touristy city, but it’s also one of the most expensive places in Italy.

7. Take a boat ride to the Amalfi Coast and Capri

One of the best things to do in Positano is taking a boat ride from Positano to the Amalfi Coast, and Capri.  I highly recommend taking that option, as you get to experience and view the magnificent views of the sea, and the enchanting views of the coastline.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in Naples or Sorrento, you can easily take a boat ride from there which will give you the option to stop off Positano, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri.

You also get to stop off a few little villages along the way, experience grottos, swim on the lagoons, and even get to sunbathe on the boat while on the way there.

The captains are fantastic at picking and dropping off tourists at the designated ports.

Find out here for a variety of private boat rides or a group boat ride with the best-discounted price.  It’s best to book your rides in advance as it can get fully booked once you’re there.

8. Visit the Church of Santa Maria

Santa Maria Church is situated in the main town of Positano.  It’s one of the iconic churches in Italy.  You won’t miss it as you stroll around the town.  

Tourists flock there to take multiple photos outside as it also overlooks the beautiful beach and colorful buildings.

You’ll get to walk pass through the narrow staircases lined with boutiques in order to get to the Church of Santa Maria which is known as the center of attention.  Santa Maria is also known for its romantic allure encapsulated with countless paintings, and photographs.  

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The interior of the church consists of beautiful white and gold interiors which date from a restoration in the late 18th century, and its Neoclassical design that has been very well preserved.  In fact, the church was founded in the second half of the 10th century. 

I hope you enjoyed my Positano Travel Guide and have learned about the best things to do in Positano.  Keep in mind that you will definitely find lots of things to do there.  Have you been to Positano, yet?  If yes, what were your favorite things to do in Positano?  Any questions?  Feel free to ask below in the comment section, and I’d be happy to answer your questions.

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