Positano Travel Guide – 14 Best Things to Do in Positano on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a bucket list summer destination for almost everyone, and the town of Positano is often considered the crown jewel of this stunning region.

With its colorful houses that cling to the cliffside, sandy beaches, and darling streets brimming with boutiques and restaurants, it’s no wonder that Positano has captured the hearts of travelers from around the world.

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I first visited Positano in 2022 and spent several days getting to know the town, along with other gorgeous places along the Amalfi Coast. In this guide, I’ll be sharing the best of what to do in Positano so that you can get straight to the good stuff!

A word of warning: Before getting into the meat of it, you should know that the Amalfi Coast is very popular and that accommodations can be booked out months in advance. As soon as you’ve locked in your trip dates, you’ll want to start planning your accommodation and tours ASAP.

Where to stay in Positano

If you’re visiting Positano for the first time, you may want to consider staying in Lower Positano around Via dei Mulini. This is the narrow pedestrian road that leads down to the main beach and is lined with shops, restaurants, and the best bars in Positano.

Upper Positano is a good location if you’re seeking budget accommodation or spectacular views, while the area around Fornillo and Arienzo beaches provides more of a tranquil atmosphere.

La Sirenuse – TIMELESS ELEGANCE
If you want to splash out on your Positano vacation, this is the place to do it! La Sirenuse is a luxury boutique hotel and an absolute dream of a property.

Dimora Del Podesta – BLU DIPINTO DI BLU
Compared to most hotels in the area, this B&B is a more affordable accommodation option in Positano.

Villa Flavio Gioia – ICONIC AMALFI
Bright furnishings and cool tiled floors make this private apartment feel fresh and inviting. Located a 3-minute walk away from the marina, you’ll be just steps away from all the action.

Best things to do in Positano Italy

1. Cruise along the Amalfi Coast on a boat tour

The ultimate way to experience the Amalfi Coast is by cruising along its jagged coastline on a boat tour, while also stopping at hidden coves and beaches that can only be reached from the water. 

You can take private or group boat tours from Positano to nearby islands like Ischia and Capri, many of which will also take you to neighboring towns like Amalfi and Ravello.

For a personalized experience, I recommend booking a private Amalfi boat tour where your skipper will take you to all the best spots along the coast while sharing insider tips and stories. You’ll get to enjoy lunch, swimming in hidden coves, and discover secret grottos that are not accessible by land.

If you want to cruise along the coast but don’t want to break the bank, join this group boat tour from Positano. You’ll get to visit many of the must-see spots, and you’ll be sharing the experience with other travelers.

2. Zip around on a Vespa Tour

Hasn’t everyone dreamt of zipping along the Italian Riviera in a vintage Vespa, or is that just me? Well, in Positano you can bring that dream to life with a Vespa tour! 

You’ll get to explore the winding coastal roads and take in breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape. Plus, it’s a fun and unique way to experience the town and will certainly be one of the highlights of your visit. 

This private tour takes you to some of the most picturesque villages with stops for photos, sightseeing and coffee breaks along the way. 

3. Enjoy a sunset aperitivo at Franco’s

No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in some delectable food and drinks. More specifically, a traditional aperitivo. And what better way to enjoy aperitivo in Positano than with a beautiful Amalfi sunset as your backdrop? 

In Positano, you can experience the perfect combination of both by heading to Franco’s Rooftop Bar. Part of La Sirenuse property, Franco’s isn’t only limited to hotel guests. So, take a seat on the terrace, order an Aperol Spritz or Limoncello and enjoy some tasty bites as you watch the sun go down over the sparkling sea.

4. Party at Music on the Rocks

Carved right into the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Music on the Rocks is one of the coolest places you’ll ever party. This cavelike night club has been around for 40 years, hosting some of the hottest DJs and live music acts. 

With great cocktails and amazing views, Music on the Rocks is the ultimate place to dance the night away on a warm summer night.

5. Relax on the beaches of Positano

Positano is home to some of the most scenic beaches in the Mediterranean. The main beach in Positano is Spiaggia Grande, a long stretch of sand lined with blue and white umbrellas and sun loungers. 

While Spiaggia Grande is a convenient spot to take a dip, it is also one of the busiest beaches in Positano Italy, so be prepared to share the sand with other visitors. There is a small section of the beach next to the marina that can be enjoyed for free, but the majority of Spaggia Grande is covered in sun loungers that can be rented for a fee.

For a more secluded beach experience, you can head over to Fornillo Beach, accessible by a walking path from Spiaggia Grande. This small cove offers lovely views and quiet solitude away from the crowds.

6. Sunbathe at the best beach clubs in Positano

One of the top things to do in Positano is to flop down on a lounge chair at a beach club and soak up the sun. 

Arienzo Beach Club, with its white and orange striped umbrellas lined up perfectly along the shore, is a popular choice. Here, everything is taken care of for you, from sunbeds and umbrellas, to delicious food and drinks, and even towels, you’ll feel like royalty as you relax and take in the stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

For something a bit more upscale and luxurious, La Scogliera is an excellent spot. This private beach club features a large stone terrace, a private beach area with comfortable sun loungers and umbrellas, and a private shower zone. The club also has a restaurant serving mouth watering Italian cuisine, making it an ideal place to spend the whole day relaxing by the sea.

7. Learn to make traditional Italian dishes

Cooking classes in Positano are one of the best ways to experience a more authentic side of the Amalfi Coast. 

I highly recommend this cooking class which is set in a private home in the small village of Montepertuso, just above the town of Positano. Emily will teach you the secrets of making traditional gnocchi and tiramisu like a true Italian mamma, using fresh ingredients picked from the family garden. 

Afterwards, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the dishes that you prepared with a family-style lunch or dinner on the gorgeous property overlooking the sea.

8. Hike the Path of the Gods

The Path of Gods trail stretches from the charming village of Bomerano to Nocelle, and offers some of the best views of Positano. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning landscapes of terraced vineyards, lemon groves, and wildflowers.

You can also explore the nearby Valle delle Ferriere, a magical valley filled with waterfalls and lush vegetation. It’s a special spot that feels like you’ve stepped into another world. Bring your swimsuit because you can even swim in the natural pools here!

9. Sample Amalfi’s lemon products

The Amalfi Coast is famous for a particular variety of lemons, called sfusato amalfitano, that thrive in this region of Italy. Be prepared, because they will probably be the biggest and juiciest lemons you’ve ever laid your eyes on! 

As you stroll the streets of Positano, you’ll notice lemon products everywhere. From refreshing sorbets and lemon infused desserts to tangy limoncello, there are tons of ways to taste and enjoy this citrusy treat.

10. Shop for custom leather sandals

When it comes to the best shopping in Positano, leather sandals are where it’s at! Sure, Positano is filled with boutiques and designer stores, but if there’s one thing you should splurge on while here, it’s a pair of custom-made leather sandals. 

Head to one of the many shoemakers in town where you can select the style, color, and fit for your very own personalized pair. 

11. Visit the prettiest church in Positano

When you’re in Positano, you simply cannot miss the Church of Santa Maria Assunta – literally! Its brilliant tiled dome can be seen from all corners of the town and is one of the must dos in Positano for any traveler. The inside of the church is magnificent, with striking gold and white details and centuries-old frescoes that grace the walls.

12. Dine with a view at Mirage

Dinner is always better with a view, and in Positano, you have plenty of options to choose from. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with panoramic views of the sea and town below. 

Mirage is where you’ll want to head for dinner if you’re after an experience that’s as much about the ambiance as it is about the food. Imagine savoring your meal with Positano’s breathtaking views spread out before you. This hidden gem of a restaurant is tucked away in the cliffs and offers traditional dishes that are so divine, you’ll be dreaming about them long after your trip.

The staff is super friendly, and if you’re lucky enough to get Rino as your server, know that you’re in for a treat. He’ll go above and beyond to make sure everything is perfect for your dining experience.

13. Hop over to Capri

Just off the coast of Positano lies the fabulous and famous island of Capri, known for its luxurious villas, designer boutiques, and beautiful Mediterranean gardens. The entire island has such a special vibe to it and is definitely worth a day trip from Positano. 

During the summer months, there are a number of boat trips from Positano to Capri. This full day group tour takes you to Capri on a traditional wooden “gozzo” boat, while visiting the legendary sea grottos and stopping for a swim.

This private Positano to Capri boat tour is ideal if you’re with a group of up to 8, or if you just want to charter your own boat for the day. Your private skipper will take you to all the best spots around Capri, including the traditional fishing village of Nerano that most visitors miss.

There is also a ferry that runs between Positano and Capri. If you choose this option, be sure to take the chairlift up to Anacapri for the most spectacular views, or spend some time relaxing on the island’s iconic beaches.

14. Go on a day trip

Positano is the perfect starting point for many day trip destinations in the region, like the mindblowing Pompeii, Mt Vesuvius and Naples, or explore the countryside and the stunning vineyards.

This all-inclusive tour will take you to hike along the Gran Cone trail to the crater of Mt. Vesuvius, followed by a visit to the ruins of Pompeii, and topped off with a delicious lunch.

Wine connoisseurs, this wine tasting is for you – a tour through southern Italy’s most acclaimed vineyards. Enjoy a private guided tour of the Irpinia wine region, stroll through the vineyards, learn about wine making, and sip on 6 different types of wine.

Getting to Positano

The closest airport to Positano is Naples International Airport (NAP) and is about 60.9 km (37 miles), or a 1 hour and 20 minute drive away. Once you land at the airport, there are a few ways you can get to Positano:

By Car: You can rent a car and drive to Positano yourself, but the roads along the Amalfi Coast are very narrow and windy, so it is not recommended for inexperienced drivers. Parking in Positano can also be nearly impossible to find, especially during high season, so if you do decide to rent a car, make sure to check with your accommodation about parking options beforehand.

Private Transfer: Arranging a private transfer from the airport to Positano is a convenient and comfortable option. While slightly more expensive, it is worth it for the peace of mind and hassle-free transportation.

By Ferry: During summer, ferries run from Naples to Positano fairly frequently, and is about a 1 hour and 13 minute ride.

By Public Transportation: This is the cheapest option for getting to Positano from Naples, but it can also be the most time-consuming. The train from Naples to Sorrento takes about an hour, and then from there you will need to take a taxi or the local SITA bus to Positano.

Getting Around Positano

The town of Positano itself is very walkable, with narrow streets and stairs that wind up the cliffside. However, if you want to venture out of town, you’ll need to use some form of transportation. Here are your options:

• SITA Bus: The local SITA bus is the most affordable way to travel between towns on the Amalfi Coast, including Positano and neighboring destinations like Sorrento and Amalfi.
• Taxi: Taxis in Positano can be convenient, but they are also quite expensive. If you want a faster and more direct route, taxis could be a good option for you.
• Scooter Rental: For a more independent and flexible option, you may want to rent a scooter to explore the coast at your own pace.
• Guided tours: Guided tours are the best option for getting around Positano in terms of price and convenience. Experience the charm of la dolce vita and book this vintage tour from Positano to Amalfi and cruise along the Amalfi Coast Road in a vintage Fiat 500!

Best time to Visit Positano

May and September are the best times to visit Positano. These months bring fewer tourists, and lower prices, while still offering warm weather and beautiful views. Summer months are the warmest and absolutely perfect for beachgoers, but it can be very crowded and hot, making it difficult to fully enjoy the town’s charm.

Where to find the best views in Positano

Positano’s dramatic cliffs lend themselves to some pretty jaw-dropping views. Here are some of the best viewpoints in Positano to take in the scenery:

• The Dock: Yep, the dock right next to Spaggia Grande! Sometimes the best things are hidden in plain sight, and the view from here is no exception. Grab a lemon sorbet and plop yourself down on the dock for a picturesque view of the colorful buildings and beach.
• The Path of the Gods: This hiking trail offers insane views of Positano and the surrounding Amalfi Coast. 
• Via Cristoforo Colombo: Walk along Via Cristoforo Colombo for some of the most epic views of Positano.
• From the water: You’ll need to rent a boat or join a boat tour for this one, but it’s well worth it! Seeing the colorful houses cascading down the cliffs is even more impressive from the water.

Is Positano worth visiting?

Positano is absolutely worth a visit! With its colorful buildings, sparkling blue sea, incredible beaches, breathtaking views and delicious cuisine, Positano is a must visit destination in Italy.  

Because Positano is a popular tourist destination, it can get quite crowded, especially during the summer months. For this reason, it’s important to manage your expectations (and make reservations well ahead of time) when planning to visit this darling town. However, with proper planning, you can still have a magical experience in Positano, Italy.