11 Best Things to do in Positano: Travel Guide + Extra tips

Positano is one of the most iconic coastal towns in Italy, and yes — it attracts people from all over the world. We were no exception. Even knowing how popular it is, skipping Positano never really felt like an option.

We visited in summer, which is one of the best times to be here — but also the busiest. Streets were packed, viewpoints crowded, and finding a quiet moment took some effort.

And yet, honestly, we fell in love with it anyway. The colors, the dramatic setting, the way the town tumbles down toward the sea — it really does feel special.

Whether you’re staying overnight in Positano (which is incredibly romantic and worth it if your budget allows) or visiting on a day trip, this guide to the best things to do in Positano will help you plan your time smartly.

Our visit was a bit spontaneous, so we didn’t manage to tick off everything on this list — but based on what we experienced, these are the things we’d prioritize next time without hesitation.

In this guide, we’re sharing what’s actually worth your time, the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay, and many practical tips that will make your planning a piece of cake.

Top Things to do in Positano

1. Walk Positano’s vertical streets

Walking through Positano is honestly the best way to experience the town. Before beaches or boats, this is what makes Positano feel special. It’s built straight into the cliff, and moving through its staircases and narrow streets gives you a real sense of its scale and character.

We started in the upper part of town and slowly made our way down toward the sea, stopping far more often than planned. Not for marked viewpoints, but for quiet corners, balconies with sudden sea views, and streets that felt almost untouched once you stepped away from the main flow. Honestly, we didn’t expect simply walking around to be such a highlight — but it quickly became a favorite.

Timing makes a big difference. Early mornings or late afternoons are far more enjoyable, especially in summer, when the heat and crowds peak. If you’re short on time, walk first and do everything else after — it sets the tone for the whole visit.

2. Relax at Spiaggia Grande

After walking through the streets, we ended up at Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach and the most iconic stretch of coastline in town. We knew it would be busy, but honestly, we weren’t prepared for just how crowded the public part gets.

It’s a narrow strip of pebbles, and finding space for two towels took patience. We eventually managed, but by then the beach felt completely packed, with barely any room around us.

The beach itself is pebble-based, with deep, clear water that’s perfect for a quick swim — especially on a hot summer day. Large sections are private, with sunbeds and umbrellas neatly arranged, costing around €45 for the day.

Since we only planned to stay for about an hour, we skipped it, but if you want to spend the whole day here and don’t want to feel squeezed in, paying for a sunbed is honestly the more comfortable option.

Timing makes all the difference. If you arrive early in the morning, you can place your towels almost anywhere and enjoy the beach before the crowds arrive. Later in the day, it becomes more about the atmosphere than relaxation. 

3. Swim and unwind at Fornillo Beach

We didn’t make it to Fornillo Beach on this visit due to time, but it’s high on our list for next time. It’s often described as a quieter alternative to Spiaggia Grande, and while the vibe is slightly more relaxed, it’s actually quite similar overall — just a bit less intense.

The beach itself is pebble-based with clear water, and the public section is still small, tucked toward the end of the beach near the rocks. It’s not a hidden gem, and it does fill up, especially in summer.

Sunbeds here are usually a little cheaper than at Spiaggia Grande, but the difference isn’t huge. Expect beach restaurant prices to match Positano standards too, with meals around €20 per person.

What makes Fornillo appealing is the balance. It feels calmer without being completely removed from town, and the walk there along the coast is part of the experience. Next time, we’d likely split our time — Spiaggia Grande for the iconic setting, Fornillo for a slightly more comfortable beach break.

4. Day trip to Capri

A day trip to Capri is one of the most popular things to do from Positano, even though we didn’t manage to fit it into our visit this time, it is something we’d plan properly on a return trip.

The best way to experience Capri is from the water. A boat tour from Positano to Capri makes a lot of sense — you see the dramatic coastline, visit the Blue Grotto, pass the Faraglioni rocks, have time for swimming stops, and still get a few hours on the island to explore on your own.

If you don’t want to deal with ferry schedules and logistics, a full-day Capri boat tour is easily the most relaxed and efficient option.

Even without visiting this time, planning a Capri day trip — ideally with a boat component — is something we’d recommend if your schedule allows. Just remember: getting an early start makes a big difference once you’re on the island.

5. Watch sunset from a terrace bar

Watching the sunset is one of the best things to do in Positano. Instead of heading down to the beach, we found the best views come from higher up, where the town opens toward the sea and the pace slows down after a busy day.

We highly recommend La Giara Rooftop Bar for this. The views are incredible, especially as the light softens and the boats start drifting back toward the harbor. It’s the kind of place where you sit longer than planned, just watching the colors change.

If you’re walking uphill in the late afternoon, sunset almost finds you on its own — but choosing a terrace like this makes the moment feel special.

6. Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta

The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is hard to miss — its colorful majolica dome is one of Positano’s most recognizable sights and shows up in almost every classic photo of the town. We didn’t actually go inside; we just admired it from the outside while passing through the area near the beach.

If you’re into churches or enjoy short cultural stops, you can enter for free. From what we’ve seen, the interior is calm and simple, offering a quick escape from the crowds just outside.

It’s not a must-see for everyone, but since it’s right by Spiaggia Grande, it fits naturally into your walk through town and adds a bit of context to Positano beyond beaches and views.

7. Hike the Path of the Gods

We didn’t hike the Path of the Gods this time, but since we love hiking, it’s something we’d absolutely plan for our next trip to the Amalfi Coast. The views in the photos alone are enough to see why it’s so popular — dramatic cliffs, open sea, and a completely different perspective compared to Positano itself.

The most common route runs from Bomerano to Nocelle and takes around 3–4 hours, depending on pace and photo stops. The trail is roughly 7 km long and considered moderate in difficulty. It’s not technical, but there are uneven paths, some exposed sections, and very little shade, which makes heat a real factor in warmer months. Starting early is key.

For us, this feels like the perfect counterbalance to busy beach days and crowded streets. A few hours of walking surrounded by views like this seems well worth the effort — and next time, this is one experience we wouldn’t skip.

8. Browse local boutiques and Positano-style fashion

While we were walking through Positano’s narrow streets, we also enjoyed looking into small boutiques and local shops, mostly without any plan. Slowing down and browsing felt like a natural part of exploring the town, especially after a few busy hours moving through crowds and staircases.

What stood out to us wasn’t luxury shopping, but the Positano-style fashion you see everywhere — light linen dresses, handmade sandals, ceramics, and small art pieces that actually feel connected to the place.

Prices vary a lot, and while some shops clearly cater to high-end visitors, others feel more personal once you step slightly away from the main pedestrian flow near the beach.

Even though we only ended up buying one small painting, it was still a really nice activity. You don’t need to buy much for this to be enjoyable — it’s more about the slow pace and atmosphere than shopping itself.

9. Do a half-day trip to Amalfi

If you have a bit more time, a half-day trip to Amalfi fits perfectly alongside a stay in Positano. After visiting Positano, we headed to Amalfi by bus, which was straightforward and much easier than dealing with a car along the coast.

Once we arrived, we went straight to the beach — and honestly, we were surprised by how much calmer it felt compared to Positano. There was noticeably more space, fewer sunbeds taking over the shore, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall. It felt less rushed and more comfortable for actually spending time by the water.

After the beach, we wandered into town and explored at an easy pace. Amalfi feels more compact and historic, with narrow streets leading up to the Duomo di Amalfi, small squares, and plenty of spots to stop for a break.

Lemon gelato was everywhere, and it quickly became our go-to snack while walking around. A few hours were enough to see the highlights, enjoy the slower vibe, and head back without feeling overwhelmed — making Amalfi a great half-day trip.

10. Photograph Positano from the road viewpoints above town

Photographing Positano from the road above town gives you a completely different perspective than anything you see from the beach or inside the streets. This is where that classic postcard view really comes together — colorful houses stacked into the cliff with the sea stretching out below.

We stopped at a few roadside viewpoints after getting off the bus right after we arrived. You don’t need to hunt for a specific spot; simply walk around and stop where you like it. Some of the best views appeared unexpectedly, and that was part of the fun.

Our tip here is to go earlier in the day or closer to golden hour, when the light softens and the colors pop without harsh shadows. Just be mindful of traffic and stop only where it’s safe.

11. Eat gelato (multiple times, from different spots)

Eating gelato is something we do every time we’re in Italy — no exceptions. We love gelato, probably like everyone else, so it had to make this list. With all the walking, stairs, and summer heat, stopping for gelato felt like the perfect excuse to slow down for a few minutes.

We tried gelato at Collina Positano Bakery and Yummy – Gelato & Pastry, and both were delicious. Nothing overcomplicated — just good gelato, enjoyed in between moving from one place to another.

Our approach is simple: don’t save gelato for the end of the day. Have it more than once, try different spots, and enjoy it as part of walking around. In a place like Positano, these small, spontaneous stops are part of what makes the day feel relaxed and memorable.

Where to stay in Positano

Staying directly in Positano is an incredible experience, but it does come at a price — and it’s something you need to plan for early. Budget hotels usually start around $200 per night, mid-range stays hover around $500, and luxury hotels easily go $1,000+ per night, especially in peak season.

Because Positano is small and world-famous, hotel availability is very limited and places sell out fast. Booking well in advance is genuinely important here. We also wouldn’t recommend canceling close to your trip hoping to rebook something better or cheaper — you can easily end up with fewer options or a worse location than what you originally had.

Below is our curated list of the best hotels in Positano, broken down by price range, based on value, location, and overall experience.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hotel Marincanto (our top pick) – A beautiful luxury hotel perched above the beach with some of the best views in Positano. Terraces overlooking the sea are a real highlight, rooms are bright and comfortable, and the location strikes a great balance between being close to Spiaggia Grande while still feeling peaceful. If we were coming back to Positano and wanted a stay that truly feels special, this is where we’d stay.
⭐️ Best for: Couples looking for romantic views, comfort, and a memorable hotel.
👉 Check current deals →

⭐️⭐️ Buca Di Bacco – A mid-range hotel right by Spiaggia Grande, ideal if you want to stay directly in the heart of Positano. Rooms are traditional but well kept, many with sea views, and the location is hard to beat if you don’t want to deal with endless stairs.
⭐️ Best for: People who want to be steps from the beach and ferries.
👉 Compare prices →

⭐️ Casa Roberta – A simple, budget-friendly guesthouse that offers excellent value for Positano. It’s not luxurious, but the rooms are clean, and the views are lovely.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a stay with views.
👉 See latest prices →

Where to eat and drink

Every time we travel, we save top-rated restaurants and bars on Google Maps in advance. It’s our way of narrowing things down and giving ourselves the best chance to eat well, even if plans change.

In Positano, our time was limited, so we only managed to eat at Ristorante Don Giovanni, but based on research, reviews, and location, this is the list we’d work through on a longer stay.

• Ristorante Don Giovanni – The only place we ate at, and a great choice. Classic Italian dishes, relaxed atmosphere, and great service.
• Il Grottino Azzurro – A well-rated spot for traditional Italian food, known for reliable quality and a cozy, unfussy vibe right in town.
• Ristorante Adamo ed Eva Positano – A more refined option, ideal for a slower dinner with views and a slightly elevated experience.
• Ocean Bar – Casual and easy, perfect for a drink on the beach.
• La Giara Rooftop Bar – Perfect for views and atmosphere, especially around sunset when you want to slow down with a drink.

How to get to and around Positano

Getting around inside Positano is only really manageable on foot. The town is small, compact, and built vertically into the cliff, so walking is not just the best option — it’s the only practical one. You don’t need a car, scooter, or taxis to explore Positano itself, just comfortable shoes and a bit of patience for the stairs.

Here are all the options for how to get to Positano.

• By bus – One of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to reach Positano from nearby towns like Amalfi or Sorrento. Buses run regularly but can get very crowded in summer.
• By ferry/boat – The most scenic and relaxed option, especially in good weather. Boats connect Positano with Amalfi, Capri, Naples, and other coastal towns.
• By car – Possible, but not ideal. Roads are narrow, traffic is heavy, and parking in Positano is limited and expensive.
• By private transfer – The most comfortable but also the most expensive option, especially if you’re arriving from Naples or the airport.

Best time to visit Positano

• Spring (April–June) – One of the best periods to visit. Temperatures are pleasant, the coast feels lively without being overwhelming, and it’s ideal for sightseeing, walking, hiking, and boat trips. Late spring in particular strikes a great balance.
• Summer (July–August) – Peak season in every sense. Expect hot weather, warm sea temperatures, and a vibrant, energetic vibe — but also heavy crowds, busy transport, and higher prices. We visited in August, and while it was beautiful, it was definitely hectic.
• Autumn (September–mid October) – Another excellent time to go. The sea stays warm, crowds slowly thin out, and temperatures are more comfortable. It’s great for both beach time and exploring.
• Winter (November–March) – The quietest season. Many hotels, restaurants, and ferry routes close, and Positano feels almost empty. If you don’t mind cooler weather and limited services, it’s a peaceful time to appreciate the town’s architecture and setting without crowds.

If you want a deeper month-by-month breakdown — including weather, crowd levels, and what to expect — we’ve covered it in our full Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast guide.

Quick Tips & Local Insights

• Start early – Early mornings are noticeably calmer. Streets, beaches, and viewpoints feel far more enjoyable before day-trippers arrive.
• Don’t underestimate crowds – Even simple things like grabbing a beach spot or getting on a bus can take longer than expected in summer.
• Plan beaches smartly – Public beach space is limited. Arriving early or budgeting for a sunbed can completely change your experience.
• Use boats when you can – Ferries are often faster and far more relaxing than buses or cars along the coast.
• Pack light for day trips – Stairs, heat, and crowds make heavy backpacks uncomfortable very quickly.
• Expect higher prices – Positano is expensive. Accepting that early helps avoid frustration and lets you enjoy it for what it is.

Final Thoughts

Between the dramatic setting, the walking, the swimming, and those small moments like gelato stops or sunset views, it’s easy to see why it’s so iconic.

Would we go back? Absolutely — but with a bit more time and a clearer plan. Next time, we’d prioritize walking the town early, spending a proper beach day (likely at Fornillo), and making time for the Path of the Gods. If you can stay overnight, even better — Positano feels very different once the day-trippers leave.

If you’re deciding what not to miss, start with exploring Positano on foot and sunset from above the town. Everything else fits naturally around those moments — and that’s when Positano feels at its best.