If you ask anyone about things to do in Positano, Italy, they’ll likely tell you the same thing: “You have to see the view from the top.” And they’d be right – the sight of that pastel-colored town tumbling down the cliffs to the sparkling Mediterranean is simply breathtaking.
But here’s the thing: Positano has so much more to offer than just those famous top views. In fact, some of the most authentic, memorable experiences in this jewel of the Amalfi Coast happen when you step off the beaten path and dive into the local culture.
So, after multiple visits and countless conversations with Positano’s residents, I’ve gathered the kind of insights you won’t find in typical travel guides.
From hidden restaurants serving grandmother’s secret recipes to shortcuts through the town’s maze-like streets, here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing the real Positano.
Amazing Things to Do in Positano, Italy
You know those places that live in your imagination for years, built up by countless Instagram photos and travel magazines? Sometimes they disappoint in real life. But Positano? It actually exceeds expectations.
I’ve spent enough time in this vertical town to know its hidden corners and secret spots. Sure, you could stick to the obvious attractions (and hey, they’re popular for a reason). But there’s so much more to discover if you know where to look.
Taste Beach Life: More Than Just a Pretty Coastline
Let’s start with what you’re probably dreaming about: the beaches, the most famous among Positano tourist attractions.
Spiaggia Grande
Spiaggia Grande is the showstopper you’ve seen in all the photos. You know the one – the beach with the church dome and those iconic orange and blue umbrellas perfectly lined up like soldiers on parade.
But here’s a tip: don’t just show up at noon in August expecting to snag a prime spot. (Trust me, I learned this the hard way.)
The smart move? Get there early – like, breakfast-cappuccino early. Around 8 AM, you’ll have your pick of sun loungers, and the morning light makes those colorful buildings glow like jewelry. Plus, you’ll avoid that awkward dance of trying to find a spot among the crowds.
For a more authentic Italian experience at your own pace, you could also ride a Vespa if you’re comfortable driving scooters or mopeds.
Best Time to Visit: 8:00-10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM
Potential Costs:
- Public area: Free
- Sun loungers: €25-30/day (high season)
- Beach clubs: €30-100/day depending on location and services
- Vespa rental: Starts at €228
Insider Tips:
- Book sun loungers at Pupetto (€25) instead of the main beach club (€35) for the same views
- The far right corner of the beach has the best morning light for photos
- Local fishermen sell fresh catches near the pier around 7:00 AM
Fornillo Beach
Want something a little more local? Take a 10-minute walk along the coastal path to Fornillo Beach. It’s like Spiaggia Grande’s quiet, cooler cousin. The water here is typically calmer, making it perfect for swimming, and you’re more likely to hear Italian being spoken than English.
I spent one memorable afternoon here, watching tiny fish dart around my feet while nearby Italian families played animated games of cards. And there was the refreshing smell of lemon everywhere.
Walking Directions:
- Start at Spiaggia Grande
- Follow the seaside path past Hotel Pupetto
- 10-minute walk with stunning views
Potential Costs:
- Beach access: Free
- Sun loungers: €20-25/day
- Restaurant meals: €15-25/person
Hidden Gems:
- Da Ferdinando’s beach bar serves the best melanzane parmigiana (€12)
- Ask for the daily catch at Il Pirata (market price)
- Natural swimming cave halfway along the path (look for the small stone arch)
Boat Tours and Water Activities
Now, here’s my favorite way to experience the coast: by boat. Nothing beats seeing Positano from the water – it’s like watching a perfectly composed painting come to life.
You can rent a private boat (splurge-worthy for special occasions) or join a small group tour. Either way, you’ll discover hidden coves and grottos that you’d never find from land.
And if you feel fancy enough, you could also take a boat trip to Arienzo Beach. This is the most secluded beach in Positano, great for those seeking some tranquil moments on their own.
But as my favorite memory, I remember floating in a quiet grotto, far from the crowds, while our captain told stories about growing up along this coast. The water was so clear, I could see straight to the bottom, and the only sound was the gentle lapping of waves against limestone cliffs.
Pro tip: Book a sunset boat tour that includes swimming stops. There’s something magical about diving into that crystal-clear water with the sun painting the cliffs gold.
Options and Pricing:
- Private Boat Rental
- Small boat (up to 6 people): €200-300/day
- Luxury yacht: €500-1500/day
- Fuel included, captain extra (€150/day)
- Group Tours
- Shared trips to Capri: €80-120/person
- Sunset cruises: €60-80/person
- Amalfi Coast tour: €100-150/person
Best Local Operators:
- Lucibello (family-run since 1950)
- Blue Star (best for Capri tours)
- Cassiopea (most comfortable boats)
Explore Culture Beyond the Beach
Sure, Positano is a beach town, but trust me – this town has stories to tell. And they’re fascinating ones.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta isn’t just a pretty backdrop for your photos – though it certainly is that. There’s so much more to it than just a pretty silhouette.
Step inside early one morning (before the day gets busy), and you’ll find yourself face to face with a mysterious black Madonna. It’s an icon that, according to legend, was stolen by pirates.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Mass Times: 7:30 AM, 6:00 PM (additional services on Sundays) Dress Code: Shoulders and knees covered
Hidden Details:
- Look for the trap door near the altar leading to Roman ruins
- The black Madonna has a fascinating legend involving Turkish pirates
- Best photos: Early morning when light streams through the dome
MAR Positano Roman Archaeological Museum
Now, this is something most visitors may walk right past. But tucked beneath the church, the MAR Positano Roman Archaeological Museum is literally a hidden piece of history.
It’s built around the remains of a Roman villa, and… get this… it was discovered by accident during renovations of the church crypt. Talk about a renovation surprise!
Just imagine how breathtaking it’d be – you walking through the remains of an ancient Roman villa, seeing the same frescoes that wealthy Romans admired nearly 2,000 years ago.
(And bonus: it’s wonderfully cool down there on hot summer days!)
Admission: €5 (free first Sunday of each month) Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
What to See:
- First floor: Roman villa remains
- Second floor: Medieval artifacts
- Basement: Ancient storage vessels
Pro Tip: Ask for Francesco, the elderly custodian who knows every stone’s history. He gave me a personal tour after closing time when he learned about my interest in Roman history.
Hidden Staircases and Alleyways
Now, let me tell you about my favorite way to experience Positano’s culture: getting lost. Seriously.
Those countless stairs and narrow alleys that wind up the hillside? They’re like a museum of daily Italian life.
So, forget your map for a moment. Just start climbing those steps that wind through the upper town.
You’ll pass by locals hanging laundry on lines strung between buildings, catch whiffs of someone’s nonna cooking lunch, and discover tiny shrines tucked into unlikely corners.
Best Routes:
- Upper Town Circuit (1.5 hours)
- Start: Chiesa Nuova
- Follow: Via Tagliata
- End: Fornillo viewpoint
- Get a custom map marked with notable stops beforehand
- Eastern Positano Loop (2 hours)
- Start: Main square
- Follow: Via Cristoforo Colombo
- End: Le Sirenuse
- Best morning light for photos
Local Interactions: Stop at the small vegetable garden near Via Stefan Andres – Maria, the owner, often shares her homegrown tomatoes with passersby.
Enjoy the Food, Have a Feast for the Senses
Let’s be real – you’re in Italy, so food is going to be a highlight. But Positano simply takes it to another level.
Food Tours
Remember that smell of lemon trees I mentioned earlier? They’re not just decorative. You’ll find that citrusy brightness in everything from pasta dishes to the local limoncello.
The local limoncello is made from these massive Amalfi lemons, and it’s nothing like the stuff you’ve tried back home. Take a food tour (I recommend scheduling it for late afternoon), and you’ll learn the difference while also sampling local olive oils, cheeses, and wines.
Now, if you ask me about must-try dishes, I’ll be in a mix to even start. Still, you should never leave without sampling:
– Spaghetti alle vongole (the clams are caught that morning)
– Delizia al limone (a lemon dessert that tastes like Positano in cake form)
– Parmigiana di melanzane (even if you think you don’t like eggplant)
– Fresh mozzarella (so creamy it barely holds together)
– Grilled octopus (even if you’re not a fan of octopus, try it here)
And among the other must haves, there are:
Vegetarian
- Parmigiana at La Tagliata
- Insalata Caprese at Café Positano
- Zucchini alla Scapece at Bruno
Desserts
- Delizia al limone at La Zagara
- Torta Positanese at Collina
- Gelato at Covo dei Saraceni
Cooking Classes
Want to take it a step further? Sign up for a cooking class. There’s something magical about learning to make pasta in a kitchen overlooking the Mediterranean.
Plus, you’ll walk away with recipes that’ll let you bring a taste of Positano home. Trust me, your future dinner party guests will thank you.
I remember how our instructor, Mamma Rosa, showed us her grandmother’s secret for perfect gnocchi – adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. “Non dirlo a nessuno!” (Don’t tell anyone!) she whispered with a wink.
Top Schools:
- Buca di Bacco Cooking School
- Cost: €150/person
- Duration: 5 hours
- Includes: Market visit, lunch, wine
- Specialty: Traditional family recipes
- Casa Cinque
- Cost: €180/person
- Duration: 6 hours
- Includes: Organic garden visit
- Specialty: Modern Positano cuisine
Restaurant Visits
But if cooking isn’t your thing, let the experts handle it. Start your evening with an aperitivo at Franco’s Bar, where the sunset views are as carefully crafted as the cocktails.
Then, wander down to La Sponda at Le Sirenuse for a Michelin-starred dinner, or keep it casual at Cafe Positano, where the seafood is fresh and the atmosphere is pure local charm.
Hidden Gems:
- Early morning sfogliatelle at La Brezza
- Weekend-only fish soup at Il Capitano
- Secret pizza garden at Lo Guarracino
Go Shopping Beyond the Tourist Trinkets
Yes, you can buy cheap souvenirs anywhere. But here’s something I’ve learned about shopping in Positano: it’s less about what you buy and more about the experience of buying it.
Traditional Custom Sandals
Take those famous Positano sandals, for example. Sure, you could grab a pair from one of the tourist shops, but why not watch them being made just for you?
Pop into one of the traditional workshops (I love La Botteguccia da Giovanni), and you’ll see skilled artisans measuring, cutting, and crafting sandals the same way they have for generations.
Hand-Painted Ceramics
And those colorful ceramics you see everywhere? Each piece tells a story. The patterns and colors aren’t just pretty – they’re part of a tradition that goes back centuries.
My favorite shop, Ceramiche Casola, is tucked away on a quiet street. The owner will tell you the meaning behind each design if you ask (and you should).
Those hand-painted tiles you see decorating buildings? You can buy similar ones to take home. (Most shops will ship larger pieces, so don’t worry about fitting them in your suitcase.)
Vibrant Fashion Items
And then there’s the fashion. Positano style is a whole vibe – think flowing linen dresses, handcrafted leather bags, and colorful beachwear. The prices might make you wince, but these are pieces you’ll treasure forever.
Enjoy Views That Will Make Your Instagram Friends Jealous
Let’s be honest: in Positano, every view is Instagram-worthy. But some spots are truly special.
Take the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), for example. It isn’t just a hike – it’s a journey back in time.
Starting early one morning, I watched the sun slowly illuminate the coastline while walking ancient shepherd paths. Yes, it’s a bit of a workout, but those views… worth every step.
And if you don’t feel like hiking, that’s not a problem, either. Some of the best views in town require nothing more than a willingness to explore.
You could simply follow the stairs up (and up, and up) to the highest part of town. Find a quiet terrace. Sit for a while. Watch the light change on the water below.
And here’s a secret for the photographers: head up to the highest part of town just before sunrise. The light hitting the buildings as the town wakes up is pure magic. Plus, you’ll have most viewpoints to yourself.
Live the Italian Nightlife
Positano after dark is a different kind of magic. The crowds thin out, the lights start twinkling, and the whole town takes on a dreamy aura.
Ideally, you’d love to be at one of the sunset spots (Le Sirenuse’s Champagne & Oyster Bar is classic for a reason) and let the night unfold naturally.
And your nightlife in Positano should start with aperitivo – it’s non-negotiable. Just find a terrace bar (Franco’s is my favorite), order a Spritz, and watch the sun paint the sky pink behind Capri.
Maybe you’ll also find yourself at Music on the Rocks, a club literally carved into the cliffside. The vibe ranges from chill jazz to full-on dance party, depending on the night.
Or perhaps you’ll end up at a quiet wine bar, chatting with locals about their favorite hidden spots.
Making It Work: The Practical Stuff
Look, I won’t sugarcoat it: Positano can be challenging. Those beautiful stairs? They’re everywhere.
The town is basically a vertical maze of stairs. Lots of stairs, and it means lots of climbing (Your Fitbit will think you’ve gone crazy).
And on top of all, the place is expensive. I mean very expensive. But that doesn’t mean you have to shed euros wastefully. Here’s how you can make everything work:
How to Get to Positano
Let’s talk about reaching this slice of paradise – because, honestly, half the adventure is getting here.
The closest airport is Naples (NAP), from where you have to go to Salerno. I recommend train rides for this, for it’s both cheap (€10-15/person) and comfy.
And from there… well, you’ve got options. I’ve tried them all, and here’s the real deal:
Private transfer: The easiest but priciest option (150 Euros avg.). Your driver meets you with a sign , and you get door-to-door service. Plus, they know those winding roads like the back of their hand.
The public bus: An adventure for the brave. It’s cheap (if you take the trip from Salerno) and the views are incredible, but let’s just say you’ll want to avoid the front seats if you get motion sickness. (I learned this the hard way.)
Ferry: My personal favorite. There’s something magical about approaching Positano from the water. Plus, no car sickness. First you go from Salerno to Amalfi (€10-15/person) and then to Positano from there (€8-10/person).
Getting Around Positano: The Vertical Challenge
Remember that time I mentioned Positano is vertical? I wasn’t kidding. This town is basically a StairMaster with better views.
The main ways to get around are:
- Your own two feet (the most reliable option)
- The local internal bus (€2 per ride, a lifesaver after a big pasta dinner)
- Taxis (when those shopping bags get too heavy, Fixed rates within town: €15-25)
Here’s what nobody tells you: Google Maps isn’t always your friend here. Those charming little pathways and shortcuts? Many don’t show up on maps. Ask locals – they know the secret routes.
Pro Tips:
- Get the internal bus schedule from your hotel
- Save the local taxi number in your phone
- Pack comfortable shoes (those cute sandals can wait)
- Look for the signs pointing to “Spiaggia” (beach) or “Centro” (town center)
Where to Stay in Positano
Choosing where to stay in Positano is like picking the perfect pasta – it’s all about personal taste! Let me break down your options (with real prices, because nobody likes surprises).
Beach Level (costliest): The legendary Le Sirenuse (€1,200-2,500/night) is the crown jewel here. Yes, it’s eye-wateringly expensive, but there’s a reason it’s considered one of the world’s best hotels. Those hand-painted tiles, that infinity pool, the Michelin-starred restaurant… chef’s kiss
For something (slightly) more reasonable, Hotel Palazzo Murat (€600-1,200/night) offers historic charm in a converted 18th-century palace. Their garden restaurant is worth a visit even if you’re not staying here.
Mid-Town: My personal sweet spot is Hotel Marincanto (€400-800/night). Their infinity pool seems to merge with the sea, and their breakfast terrace… well, let’s just say I’ve spent many happy mornings there.
Hotel Villa Franca (€500-900/night) sits perfectly positioned between beach and sky. Their rooftop pool offers some of the best views in town, and their shuttle service is a life-saver.
Upper Town: Here’s where you can find some (relative) bargains. Villa Rosa (€250-500/night) offers those postcard-perfect views without the postcard-perfect prices. Their rooms are simple but charming, and every one has a terrace.
B&B Venus Inn (€180-350/night) is my go-to recommendation for friends who want to experience Positano without breaking the bank. Family-run, incredibly welcoming, and those views… mama mia!
Budget-Friendly Options: Look to nearby villages for better deals. In Montepertuso (just above Positano), Colle dell’Ara (€150-250/night) offers stunning views and authentic vibes. Their homemade breakfast is worth the climb alone.
Pro Tips:
- Book rooms with terraces or sea views – they’re worth the €50-100/night premium
- Check the exact location – “10 minutes to the beach” usually means 10 minutes down
- Upper town hotels often offer shuttle services (ask about frequency and hours)
- Consider B&Bs for a more authentic experience
- Prices listed are high season (June-September); expect 30-40% lower rates in shoulder season
- Many hotels require a 2-3 night minimum stay in peak season
- Breakfast is usually included (and often spectacular)
- Book at least 6 months ahead for premium hotels in high season
Apartment Rentals
If you’re staying longer or traveling with family, consider an apartment. Airbnb options range from €150-800/night depending on location and luxury level. Look for hosts with Superhost status and lots of reviews.
Cost-Saving Accommodation Hacks:
- Stay in nearby Praiano (15 minutes by bus) for 30-40% savings on similar properties
- Book shoulder season (May or September) for better rates
- Many hotels offer early booking discounts (10-15% off)
- Some hotels offer free nights for longer stays (usually 5+ nights)
- Ask about half-board options – some hotels offer dinner packages that can save money
- Consider splitting a larger apartment with friends or family
The Last Word
You know what I love most about Positano? It’s not just the views (though they’re spectacular). It’s not just the food (though it’s incredible). It’s the way this place makes you slow down and savor every moment.
Whether you’re watching the sunset paint the buildings in shades of gold, or sipping espresso at a tiny cafe while chatting with locals, or swimming in that crystal-clear water… Positano has a way of making you feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
And isn’t that what travel is all about?
So pack your comfortable shoes, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with one of Italy’s most magical spots. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself planning your return trip before you even leave.
