The Amalfi Coast’s most famous and legendary hillside village, the picturesque and romantic Positano is an idyllic place to spend a few days. The sight of the beige, pink, yellow, and terra-cotta houses cascading down the side of the coast to crystal blue Mediterranean waters is famous across the world and has been mesmerizing visitors to this captivating section of the Italian coast for centuries. Like stepping into a dream, Positano is the perfect place to live out your Italian fantasy. Positano also has both the best luxury hotels and budget hotels, so you’ll definitely find one that fits your price range. With winding characterful streets, casual restaurants, and breathtaking views, there’s so much to do; you’re sure to have a trip of a lifetime. If you’re still wondering what to do in Positano, then read on to find out more about the best things to do in Positano, Italy.
Where to stay in Positano, Italy
Make your way to one of these authentically Italian neighborhoods close to all the dining and drinking establishments, as well as the breathtaking sceneries in Positano, Southern Italy.
Lower Positano
This is a must-stay area for nightcrawlers who enjoy exploring the vibrant drinking establishments and looking for fun things to do at night. Lower Positano is decked with luminous bars boasting stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. It’s also a great spot for first-time travelers to Italy since it’s surrounded by the best Positano tourist attractions. Those who enjoy water sports and underwater excursions like snorkeling or scuba diving can also make the most out of their day trip when they set up base here.
Montepertuso
A more secluded area, Montepertuso is a small village in the northern part of Positano where families and couples would appreciate its romantic location. It’s decked with lush emerald landscapes wherein waking up to amazing views of the Italian hillside is just one great way to begin your vacation. Active travelers and adventurous souls will definitely find Montepertuso a climb. This village is only reachable on foot and by walking up 1,500 flights of stairs.
Fornillo
Travelers who enjoy being near the water will find Fornillo an ideal base when in Positano. It’s home to the famous Fornillo Beach, just west of Positano’s city center, as well as the Gulf of Salerno where kayaking and water sports often take place. This charming part of Positano is a family-friendly area where all the essential establishments are easily accessible. Apart from Fornillo Beach, this neighborhood also boasts rustic wineries and serves notable shellfish and seafood.
For a top-notch vacation in Positano, we recommend booking these amazing places to stay:
Things to do
1. Tour Amalfi Coast on a Vespa (from USD 348.92)
During sightseeing in Positano, embark on an unforgettable adventure along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast by taking a tour on a Vespa scooter. This exhilarating experience allows you to explore stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque villages, and winding roads at your own pace while enjoying the freedom and thrill of riding a classic Italian Vespa.
The flexibility of riding a Vespa allows you to uncover hidden gems along the way, stopping at viewpoints to capture postcard-worthy photographs and embracing the authentic charm of the coastal villages. Pause for a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, indulging in the region’s renowned cuisine and refreshing beverages.
Positano: Full-Day Private Amalfi Coast Vespa Tour
Duration: 6.0 to 8.0 hour
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2. Go on a walking tour with an Archaeologist (from USD 107.28)
This is one of the most unique activities in Positano. Guided by an expert archaeologist, you’ll discover the remnants of ancient civilizations that have shaped Positano throughout the centuries. This immersive experience allows you to delve into the rich heritage of this picturesque coastal town, uncovering its fascinating past as you explore its cobblestone streets and hidden corners. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys, marvel at the well-preserved ruins, and listen as the archaeologist brings the history to life with captivating stories and insights.
Visit ancient Roman villas, admire the intricate mosaics, and learn about the daily life and customs of the people who once inhabited these lands. Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s significance as a trading hub and cultural crossroads. Walking through the town, the archaeologist will point out architectural features, historical landmarks, and hidden gems that the casual observer may overlook.
Positano: Old Town Walking Tour with Archaeologist Guide
Duration: 2.0 hour
3. Learn the art of making pizza and tiramisu at a local's home (from USD 197.0)
While you are in this beautiful village in Italy, you can go for a pizza- and tiramisu-making class. This three-hour activity is held in a local’s home, so you can be sure to enjoy a comfortable yet educational experience.
Here, you can learn to create an authentic pizza dish and get to try it afterward. It is best enjoyed with a glass of wine, which is also included in this package. Afterward, you can enjoy your sweet treat, which you will also make from scratch.
Positano Pizza and Tiramisu Lesson with a Local Cook
Duration: 3 hours
4. Discover creative works at Franco Senesi Fine Art
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Franco Senesi Fine Art on Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Art enthusiasts can surely enjoy a visit to Franco Senesi Fine Art, which features contemporary art collections. The small art gallery’s team makes sure to select only the finest artworks by local artists. This gallery not only features colorful and artful paintings but also showcases beautiful and unique sculptures. If you like collecting art pieces, then this attraction in Positano is definitely worth a visit.
Franco Senesi Fine Art
Address: Piazza dei Mulini, 16, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: Franco Senesi Fine Art
Opening hours: 9:30am - 12am (daily)
5. Try some local wine at Swirl the Glass
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Italy is well-known for its lush vineyards and flavorful wines. If you are a wine enthusiast, you may want to consider visiting Swirl the Glass, which offers wine tours and wine tastings and is one of the best places to visit in Positano, Italy. Here, you can learn all about the wine-making process. While you savor a glass of wine, you can enjoy a home-cooked lunch meal at the beautiful estate. Wine tastings are often held before dinner, served with cold starters. You can choose from a wide variety of wines to try while you are here.
Swirl the Glass
Address: Via Pestella, 70, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: Swirl the Glass
6. Walk the famous Positano streets (from USD 61.0)
One of the best things to do in Positano to know more about it is by spending an afternoon walking its winding stone streets. It is also a great way to explore this beautiful town. Head straight to the colorful Church of Santa Maria Assunta, Positano’s most famous sight, which features a dome made of majolica tiles.
After admiring the architecture of the impressive building, it’s up to you. Positano is a small village, so wherever you are, you can find your way back to the harbor area and you never know what you might find when you get lost somewhere. Spend time photographing the colorful buildings, or take in the stunning views of the harbor while enjoying an Italian coffee or wine.
There are hidden treasures to be discovered around every corner and with many boutique shops, ceramic shops, and souvenir shops. It’s also a great place to spend some of your hard-earned cash. So if ever you’re wondering what to see in Positano, it’s just a matter of walking around this awe-inspiring seaside town.
Positano Walking tour
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
7. Visit Mt Vesuvius and Pompeii (from USD 149.0)
One of the best day trips from Positano, and arguably the most impressive archeological site in the world, and with daily trips running from Positano, Pompeii is well worth a visit. Buried in ash from the 79D eruption of Mount Vesuvius, the ruins offer an unrivaled glimpse into what life was really like in everyday ancient Rome. Explore the ruins and visit the forum, the baths, and some out-of-town villas and marvel at the everyday items recovered in the excavation.
Not far from Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius is another favorite Positano attraction. It’s where you can take a drive up its slope and hike to its crater. There are trips running daily from Positano that offer the chance to combine both of these sights, usually with a delicious lunch provided.
Pompeii and Vesuvius Full-Day Tour from Amalfi Coast
Address: Positano, Italy
Website:
Amalfi Coast to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius Full-Day Tour
Duration: 8 to 10 hours
8. Take a wine tour through the Amalfi countryside (from USD 399.0)
The hills around Positano are blessed with some of the best vineyards in Italy and with sumptuous reds, refreshing whites, and aromatic roses on offer; a wine tour is an ideal way to sample the local delights.
What could be better than tasting the aromatic flavors and developing your palette, all in the beautiful surroundings of the Amalfi Coast? Guided by a local expert you will be swirling and smelling professionally in no time. Most tours will take you to a selection of vineyards, so you can really see how wine is produced in this area, and they usually provide lunch.
Irpinia Winery and Wine-Tasting Tour from the Amalfi Coast
Duration: 8 hours
9. Discover the wonders of Capri (from USD 121.0)
Capri is the legendary island of paradise, found in the southern corner of the Bay of Naples. Long a favorite with the rich and famous, over the centuries everyone from Roman emperors, royalty, and Hollywood superstars has fallen in love with its rugged beauty.
You can join that list too by taking a day trip to the spellbinding resort and see for yourself why this small island has captivated so many over the ages. With Roman ruins, fine Italian cuisine, and designer boutiques lining the streets, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Enjoy a glass of wine at the picturesque Marina Piccola or, if you want to leave the glitz behind, beyond the town there is unspoiled countryside to discover.
The main tourist attraction of the island is the Grotta Azzura, the Blue Grotto, which is a special cave discovered in the 19th century. It’s well worth a visit and as well as the blue pool, there are the remains of ancient rock, with a narrow cavern to admire.
Small-Group Capri Cruise from the Amalfi Coast
Address: Positano, Italy
Website:
Capri Island Cruise from Amalfi, Praiano, or Positano
Duration: 8 hours
10. Relax on one of Positano's famous beaches
With some of the most iconic and glamorous beaches in the world, you cannot visit Positano without spending at least one day relaxing underneath one of its colorful umbrellas. The Spiaggia Grande is one of the most popular Positano attractions as it’s a picture-perfect beach, a great place to sip on a cocktail while you top up your tan. With a string of restaurants, cafes, and even the resort’s only nightclub, Music On The Rocks, Spiaggia Grande is definitely the place to go for a lively afternoon and evening.
If you want to avoid the crowds, try Laurito Beach, which can either be accessed by boat that leaves Positano’s Spiaggia Grande every 30 minutes or via a flight of steps coming from the square opposite the Hotel San Pietro. This smaller beach is divided into a free and private beach, which is attached to a small hotel. As it is small, reservations at one of the restaurants or just to use a sun lounger are necessary so book ahead if you want to enjoy a day here. If these don’t take your fancy, why not try Fornillo and Arienzo Beach?
While the beaches around Positano are beautiful, why not venture further afar? There are many beautiful beaches that can be accessed via boat trips. Boats, kayaks, and paddleboards are all available for rent at Spiaggia Grande, where friendly vendors are happy to give you advice on the best places to go.
SUP Positano
Address: Spiaggia Grande, Positano, Italy
Website: SUP Positano
11. Hike the Path of the Gods (from USD 174.0)
Positano sightseeing wouldn’t be complete without checking this out. Whether you’re a fan of hiking or not, the Path of the Gods is a magical way to see the incredible and breathtaking beauty of the spell-binding Amalfi Coast.
The path itself is an impressive trail that has been carved into the landscape over centuries and is still used by farmers, shepherds, and anyone else to navigate their way along this, at times, inhospitable coastline. In recent years it has attracted tourists, who come to admire the jaw-dropping views of this stunning piece of the world. The most popular portion is between Bomerano and Nocelle, which offers panoramic views from the pass of Colle Serra. Ancient Nocelle is around 440 meters (1,442 feet) above Positano on the slopes of the Monte Sant'Angelo a Tre Pizzi and can be accessed via a steep, 1,700-step staircase.
The best way to tackle the path is from east to west, so you will be required to take a bus to Bomerano first and then walk back to Positano. It’s best to get some further information about the path, buses, and the best time of day to tackle it after you have arrived in Positano, as this can change from day to day and depends on what time of year you visit.
The Path of the Gods
Address: Bomerano to Nocelle
Website: The Path of the Gods
Amalfi to Positano Path of the Gods Private Hiking Adventure
Duration: 4 hours
12. Explore the Amalfi coast by boat (from USD 616.0)
Positano might be the jewel on the Amalfi coast, but it’s far from the only place to explore. The Amalfi actually stretches 50 km (31 mi) along the Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region and a great way to explore this incredible coastline is via a boat tour. You can appreciate the sheer cliffs, jagged shoreline, and landscape dotted with vineyards and olive groves all from your private boat, and with untouched coves, beaches, and grottos not accessible by land to visit, it makes for an amazing day.
There are many boat tours available from the harbor, and it is one of the top things to do in Positano. Enjoy a guided tour of the hidden beaches and grottos along the coast that you would have otherwise missed. The Amalfi is also regarded as one of the best places to scuba dive in the Mediterranean, so if you have experience or wanted to start, it’s a great place to try.
Boat Tour of the Amalfi
Website:
Amalfi Coast boat tour
Duration: 6 hours
13. Dance at Positano's legendary cave club
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by MUSIC ON THE ROCKS on Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Positano isn’t known for its party nightlife, but Music on the Rocks is well worth a visit. The only club in the small village, it is one of the best in the region, and not just because of the amazing location. Found at the eastern end of the Spiaggia Grande beach, Music On The Rocks is in a cave carved into the rock face and you can actually hear the waves crashing below as you dance and sip cocktails.
Attracting some of the top DJs in the region, a mix of electronic, house, and disco can usually be relied upon to provide a good night and it’s the perfect place to let your hair down in a unique location.
Music On The Rocks
Address: Via del Brigantino, 19, 84017 Positano, Italy
Website: Music On The Rocks
14. Appreciate the beauty of Santa Maria Assunta
One of the top attractions in Positano, the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano features a beautiful Byzantine design that effortlessly attracts tourists. However, it is not only known for its distinctive architecture, but it also has a rich history that visitors will definitely want to explore. The church was founded all the way back in the 10th century. Join a guided tour and let your host answer all your questions regarding the church’s past. You can enter the church to see its grand gold and white interiors as well as to see the statue of the Black Madonna. If you want to take photographs of the magnificent structure, check out the angle from the cliffside overlooking beautiful ocean waters.
Santa Maria Assunta
Address: Via Marina Grande, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: Santa Maria Assunta
15. Enjoy a selection of beautiful footwear at Safari - The Positano Sandals
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Want to incorporate culture with shopping? At Safari, you will see the locally sourced high-quality leather used to make beautiful shoes for all genders and ages. Committed to working with passion, their handmade products such as loafers and sandals let you experience comfort without having to compromise on design. Safari even lets its customers customize their own footwear so they can get the look they truly desire. Explore the different styles this shop has to offer and you will surely find something you will love.
Safari - The Positano Sandals
Address: Via della Tartana, 2, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: Safari - The Positano Sandals
Opening hours: 9am - 9:30pm (daily)
16. Have a lovely meal at Da Vincenzo Positano
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the most sought-after Positano activities is, of course, trying out the delectable authentic Italian dishes the town has to offer. If you’re looking for a great restaurant with a welcoming ambiance, Da Vincenzo Positano will certainly not disappoint. Witness a variety of food options from delectable pasta dishes to seafood courses. Want some wine to pair with your delicious meal? Explore the different choices of refreshing wine this restaurant has to offer. If you’re not sure what to get, you can always ask the accommodating staff for suggestions as they will surely know what the best-sellers are. Spoil yourself and indulge in a wonderful dining experience in Positano.
Da Vincenzo Positano
Address: Viale Pasitea, 172/178, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: Da Vincenzo Positano
Opening hours: Sun, Wed - Sat: 12:15pm - 2:45pm, 6:45pm - 10:45 pm; Mon: 12:15pm - 2:45pm, 6:30pm - 10:45pm (Closed on Tue)
17. Enjoy a cocktail at Blu Bar Positano
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
With a welcoming ambiance and a beautiful view, Blu Bar will surely delight its customers. Not only do they offer deliciously refreshing cocktails, but the bar also offers authentic Italian snacks visitors will want to savor. If you are out with your friends, you can get something for sharing such as pizza, or if you prefer, you can also have some sandwiches. They also offer scrumptious desserts like ice cream and fresh fruits. Up for some wine tasting while you take in the spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast from your very own comfortable seat? Indulge in locally made wines and discover the alluring taste of Positano.
Blu Bar Positano
Address: Spiaggia, Via Marina Grande, 4, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: Blu Bar Positano
Opening hours: 11am - 11pm (daily)
18. Bonus: Town-hopping and limoncello tasting (from Rome) (221.96 USD)
If you’re looking for a scenic coastal trip from Rome, this is easily one of our favorite tours. It’s a mini trip packed with lots of activities and memories to bring home.
The trip starts with a high-speed train out of Rome to Salerno. You will then take a ferry ride along the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll get to see picturesque towns along the coastline. The first stop at Amalfi Town is to stretch your legs for a stroll, some shopping, and of course, limoncello tasting. The next stop is Positano, where your guide will give you tips on the best spots to check out before you explore on your own. Enjoy a special lunch tasting the region’s freshest local ingredients and be sure to take a dip in the sea too.
Town-hopping and limoncello tasting
Website:
Price: 221.96 USD
19. Go back in time at MAR Positano Villa Romana
Go back in time by visiting this renovated Roman villa in Positano. This ancient dwelling was buried during the catastrophic Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD, which, incidentally, also struck Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Despite being underground for centuries, the beautiful structure remained mostly intact. Excavation and restoration started in 2003, and it was finally completed in 2017. Now, tourists from all over the world flock to the site to see first-hand what it was like to live in ancient times.
When you book a tour of this time-worn residence, you will still get to see for yourself the colorful frescoes adorning most of the interior walls. Most of the pictures depict mythological creatures from ancient Roman times, including cupids and winged horses. Amazingly, jugs, cups, and other everyday items also remain intact, giving a glimpse of how ancient Romans lived.
MAR Positano Villa Romana Tour
Address: Piazza Flavio Gioia, 7, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: MAR Positano Villa Romana
Opening hours: Apr 1st - Oct 31st: 9am - 9pm (daily); Nov 1st - March 30th: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 15 EUR (18 USD)
20. Enjoy an authentic Italian meal at La Piazzetta Di Palumbo Francesco
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
La Piazzetta Di Palumbo Francesco is located on the street of Viale Pasitea, which sits on a hill in the center of town. This means that it’s easy to find as it’s pretty much situated near most hotels, inns, shops, and other establishments. The restaurant serves authentic Italian meals that would certainly satisfy your pasta and pizza cravings without hurting your wallet, perfect for adventurers on a tight budget.
La Piazzetta Di Palumbo Francesco
Address: Viale Pasitea, 237, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
Activities near Positano
21. Try tandem skydiving from 4500m (14763 ft) over the Amalfi Coast near Naples (228 USD)
The Amalfi Coast is a 50-kilometer (31-mile) stretch of coastline in the south of Italy. Time and time again, people are blown away by its luminous blue waters, enchanting multi-colored houses hugging the side of the cliffs, and its surrounding countryside. Get the best view of the coast from above with this skydiving experience. This is suitable for first-timers as you are strapped to your tandem master from the moment you jump until you safely land on the ground. take a plane ride reaching 4,500 meters (14,000 ft) from where you’ll take the plunge, engage in a 60-minute free fall as you enjoy panoramic views, and bask in the beauty of its luscious greenery as you descend to the landing site. The price includes all the skydiving equipment and insurance. Complement this once-in-a-lifetime experience with a photo & video package at a minimal cost.
Tandem Skydive from 4500m (14763 ft) over the Amalfi Coast near Naples
Price: 228 USD
Duration: half day
22. Experience tandem paragliding flight over the Amalfi Coast (137 USD)
Discover the rustic charm of the Amalfi Coast and refresh your weary spirit with sublime views of its naturally beautiful coastline and gorgeous Mediterranean towns. Make the 25 to 40-minute tandem-paragliding flight the highlight of your visit. It is the closest thing to reaching the sky. Gently soar high up and glide into the air while you are mesmerized by the coast’s exquisite beauty. See the gigantic Mount Vesuvius, the only active volcano in mainland Europe known for its disastrous eruption which buried the town of Pompeii. A licensed paraglider pilot will look after the launching, navigating, and landing for you. Paragliding equipment, insurance, and transfers are all included in the package. Time to defy your limits. Book now and Experience the excitement!
Tandem paragliding flight over the Amalfi Coast
Price: 137 USD
Duration: half day
Fall in love with Positano
Falling in love with Positano and everything this romantic Italian resort has to offer is easy. After walking the ancient streets, discovering the authentic restaurants, and the historic houses nestled on the hillside, and sampling the authentic food, you might wonder how you will ever leave this paradise along the Amalfi Coast.
Positano might be the Italian dream, so it is worth venturing out to discover the best Airbnb vacation rentals and other exceptionally beautiful stays that dot this incredible coastline. The villages of Praiano, Conca Dei Marini, Castiglione, and Maiori lie between Positano and Salerno and are well worth a trip and can be accessed by local ferry services. Or if you are feeling more adventurous, a ferry from Naples will take you to the island of Sardinia.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Positano
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