Let’s be honest – Positano is the kind of place that looks a bit fake in photos. But trust me, it’s very real, and very fabulous. Nestled into the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, this pastel-hued town is all about views, vino, and very good gelato.
If you’re planning your first trip (or your fifth), here’s a curated list of the top 12 things to do in Positano – the best of the best, without the fluff.
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Ciao! I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger who fell head-over-espresso for the Amalfi Coast. I’ve explored this dreamy coastline from top to toe, and Positano is the jewel in the crown – all pastel buildings, lemon trees, and sea views that make your jaw drop.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for insider tips, I’m here to help you fall in love with it too. Let’s get on with my list of the best things to do in Poistano:
1. Lounge at Spiaggia Grande 🏖️
The heart of Positano life, this big beautiful beach is all colourful umbrellas, calm sea, and dramatic cliffs. You can rent a lounger or just lay your towel down and people-watch.
Tip: Get here early in peak season – those sunbeds go fast!
2. Discover Fornillo Beach 🌿
A quieter alternative to the main beach, Fornillo is a short walk away and perfect for a lazy swim or peaceful lunch.
Think fewer crowds, same gorgeous sea. You’ll find a couple of casual beach bars and a totally relaxed vibe.
3. Hike the Path of the Gods 🥾
Feeling active? This epic trail above Positano gives you some of the most jaw-dropping coastal views in Italy.
It starts in Bomerano and ends in Nocelle, a tiny hamlet above town.
It’s not super tough, but it is exposed – go early, bring water, and wear proper shoes.
4. Eat at a Cliffside Restaurant 🍝
Dining in Positano is an event.
Book a table at one of the town’s legendary cliffside spots and watch the sun melt into the sea while you feast on seafood pasta and lemon risotto.
Top cliffside picks:
- Ristorante Bruno – casual and charming.
- La Sponda – romantic and candlelit.
- Il Tridente – classic with a view.
5. Set Sail on a Boat Tour 🚤
Seeing Positano from the water is a whole vibe.
Join a boat tour for hidden coves, snorkelling spots, and those cliffside views that’ll make your heart skip.
Options range from shared cruises to swish private yachts. Sunset sail? 10/10 recommend.
👉 Check Viator for Positano boat tours.
6. Shop Local Boutiques 👜
The winding streets are packed with artisan gems: linen dresses, lemon ceramics, handmade sandals – you name it.
Positano is known for breezy coastal fashion, and you will be tempted.
Your suitcase might hate you, but you’ll look amazing.
7. Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta ⛪
You can’t miss that iconic tiled dome.
Step inside this serene little church to see beautiful frescoes and the famous Black Madonna icon said to protect Positano’s sailors.
Short and sweet – and cool inside when it’s roasting out.
8. Sip Cocktails at Sunset 🍹
Sunset in Positano is not to be missed – and neither is a Limoncello spritz with a sea view.
Best spots to catch golden hour:
- Franco’s Bar – vibey and stylish.
- Champagne Bar at Le Sirenuse – if you’re feeling fancy.
- Next2 – a more chilled option with fab drinks.
9. Cool Off with Gelato 🍨
Let’s not overthink it – you’re in Italy, and gelato is non-negotiable.
Try pistachio, lemon, or local fave limoncello flavour from Gelateria Buca di Bacco, right by the beach.
Yes, you’ll need napkins. Yes, it melts instantly. No, you won’t care.
10. Take a Cooking Class 🍴
Learn how to make pasta from scratch, craft tiramisu like a local, and earn your carbs the delicious way. Many classes include a market visit and wine, of course.
By the end, you’ll be ready to open a trattoria (or at least impress your mates back home).
11. Day Trip to Capri 🏝️
Just a short boat hop away, Capri brings the glam.
Explore the Blue Grotto, sip espresso in the Piazzetta, and marvel at those legendary Faraglioni rocks.
Easy to visit in a day – and worth it for the drama and designer window shopping alone.
12. Swim in That Dreamy Water 💦
Whether it’s Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo, or a tiny cove you find on a boat tour, you have to swim in Positano’s sparkly turquoise sea. It’s refreshing, salty, and totally magical.
Bonus: saltwater makes your hair look effortlessly great. Just saying.
Quick Tips for Visiting Positano 📌
🧳 Pack light – you’ll be hauling luggage up stairs.
👟 Comfy shoes – it’s a town of steps, not heels.
🕶️ Sun protection – Positano doesn’t mess around.
🛥️ Book boat tours ahead – especially in summer.
🍽️ Reserve restaurants – cliffside spots get booked quickly.
🚌 Skip the car – parking is a nightmare. Buses and boats are better.
Map of Things to Do in Positano 🗺️
To help you plan your Positano adventure, I’ve put together this handy Google Map with all the best beaches, viewpoints, restaurants and photo spots marked.
📍 Click the star ⭐ to save it to your own Google Maps and use it offline while you explore.
Where to stay in Positano 🛏️
Positano’s hotels are all about killer views, charming terraces, and lots of stairs.
Here’s a quick rundown of the best areas to stay:
🛏️ Central Positano: Best for first-timers who want to be close to shops, restaurants, and the beach. Pricey, but you’re paying for that iconic view.
🛏️ Fornillo: Just around the corner, this area is quieter and a little more affordable. Great for a peaceful stay with easy beach access.
🛏️ Montepertuso or Nocelle: These hilltop hamlets above Positano are all about panoramic views and fresh mountain air. Expect steps, but also serenity.
💡 Tip: Positano books up months in advance, especially in summer. Use Booking.com to lock something in with free cancellation – just in case.
Quick Picks: Top-Rated Tours in Positano 🚤
If you only do a couple of things, make it these:
- Capri Boat Tour – Includes swim stops, prosecco, and a chance to see the Blue Grotto.
- Private Sunset Cruise – Pure romance, complete with Champagne and the Amalfi Coast glowing golden.
- Cooking Class with a Local – Learn to make pasta (and limoncello) the Positano way.
👉 You can browse top-rated options on Viator or Get Your Guide
Frequently Asked Questions about Positano, Italy 💡
Planning a trip to Positano? Here are some helpful FAQs to make your visit smooth and unforgettable.
What is the best time to visit Positano?
The best months to visit Positano are May to June and September to early October. The weather is sunny, the sea is warm, and it’s less crowded than peak summer.
How do I get to Positano from Naples?
You can reach Positano from Naples by train to Sorrento, then ferry or SITA bus. Or skip the hassle with a private transfer – it’s faster and more scenic. 👉 See my Day Trips From Naples post.
Do I need a car in Positano?
No! Positano is best explored on foot or by ferry. The town is full of steep steps and narrow roads, and parking is very limited.
Is Positano expensive?
Yes, Positano is one of the more luxurious Amalfi Coast towns – but you can still visit on a budget by choosing local eateries, using public transport, and booking hotels in nearby towns like Praiano or Nocelle. 👉 See my post Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast.
Can you swim in Positano?
Yes indeed. Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach both have clean, swimmable waters. You can also swim off the boat on a coastal cruise.
What are the best day trips from Positano?
Top day trips include Capri, Amalfi, Ravello, and Pompeii. You can visit by boat, bus, or private tour.
Where to get the best views in Positano?
Head to Piazza dei Mulini, Montepertuso, or take a scenic hike on the Path of the Gods. For a stunning dining view, try La Sponda or Franco’s Bar.
Is Positano walkable?
Yes – but be prepared for lots of stairs. Bring comfy shoes and take it slow – the views are worth every step.
Final Thoughts on Positano ✨
Like John Steinbeck said in 1953:
“Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.”
I couldn’t have said it better myself. Whether you’re here for a honeymoon, solo adventure, or Italian summer with friends, Positano is the kind of place that lingers in your soul.
Related Posts You’ll Love 📚
Planning your trip? Don’t forget to check out:
🚗 Amalfi Coast Planned Road Trip.
🏨 Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast.
⛴️ 10 Best Day Trips from Naples.
🍋 One Day in Sorrento, Italy: The Perfect Itinerary
Pin It for Later – Positano Travel Inspiration 📌
Planning your dream trip to Positano? Save these pins to your Italy or Europe travel boards on Pinterest so you’ve got all the best things to do right at your fingertips!
Positano quick links:
- Reserve your Positano Hotel early, before they sell out.
- Remember to pack decent sunscreen and a packable sun hat.
- Book Positano tours in advance (no payment required up front).
- Take a quick-dry sand-repellent beach towel.
- Packing cubes are a traveller’s best friend. I recommend these ones.
- Going hiking? These are the best hiking socks.
- If you need a rental car, book one at Discover Cars and pick it up at the airport.
- Need something to read on the beach? 20 Best Books For Travellers.
👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.
