The Ultimate Travel Guide to Positano, Italy
Positano is a stunning town on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, nestled between rugged mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, and I believe everyone should experience it at least once in their lifetime. If you’re looking for sweeping views, charming architecture, scenic hikes, delicious restaurants, and pristine waters, Positano is the place to be. In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Positano, I’ve included useful information on how to get to Positano, where to stay, what to see, and where to eat or grab a drink. I hope you enjoy it!
My favorite Instagram spot in Positano - 44 Via Cristoforo Colombo
How to get to Positano?
The easiest way to reach the Amalfi Coast is by flying into Naples International Airport (NAP). I’ve flown there a few times from Europe with low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air, which offer plenty of connections to major European cities—and even some smaller ones. If you’re traveling from the United States, there are direct flights from Atlanta (ATL), Newark (EWR), New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), and Chicago (ORD).
Once you arrive at Naples Airport, I recommend taking a boat or private shuttle (book here) to get to Positano. If you would like to travel on budget, you can book this shared shuttle from Naples Airport to Positano, here.
Where to stay in Positano?
Positano offers plenty of boutique hotels and B&Bs if you’re looking for more affordable options. When booking your stay, make sure to check the location carefully—Positano is built on steep hills and winding streets, so getting around can be a workout! Try to choose a place in the center or closer to the beach rather than up in the mountains.
Here are some of my recommendations:
Where to eat and drink in Positano?
Must-try restaurants and cafes
Angelo Cafe (perfect for coffee, cocktail or snack)
Rada Beach Ristorante (beach restaurant with lunch and dinner)
Ristorante Miramare Positano (delicious seafood, past and stunning views)
Lo Guarracino (good food and beautiful views)
D’Aiello Restaurant (upscale restaurant perfect for a romantic dinner)
Best spots for cocktails
Ocean Bar Positano (great cocktails on the beach)
La Giara Rooftop Bar (delicious cocktails and breathtaking views)
Franco’s Bar (a very Instagrammable bar in Positano with the best views)
Gold Rooftop Cocktail Bar (the views at sunset are simply stunning!)
Eden Sky Bar Positano (Elevated cocktails and stunning views)
Gelato and coffee recommendations
Bar Paradise Positano (amazing coffee and gelato)
Bar Internazionale (delicious coffee and cannoli/pastry)
Sofiposa Gelato Artigianale (great gelato and lemon sorbet in a real lemon)
Yummy - Gelato & Pastry (beautiful ice-cream shop with delicious ice-creams and pastry)
Pastries at Angelo Cafe in Positano
Things to do & actIvities in Positano
When visiting Positano, don’t forget to spend some time at the beach and soak up the sun. Most of the main beach area is private, but there are also public sections you can enjoy. Beyond the beach, this charming town has plenty of fun activities and beautiful spots to explore. Here’s a list of my favorite things to do and places to visit in Positano:
Beach day at Spiaggia di Positano (you can book the sunbeds and umbrellas here, they cost about 90 euros)
Take pictures at the most iconic view point on the 44 Via Cristoforo Colombo
Admire the ceramics display near Hotel Le Sireneuse
Book a sunset cruise in Positano here
Go to a cooking class with wine and food, book it here
Take a cruise to Capri and Blue Grotto, book it here
Go snorkling near Positano, book it here
Spiaggia di Positano
Spiaggia di Positano
travel Tips when coming to Positano
Pack comfy shoes – Positano is built on steep hills and endless stairs. Leave the heels behind and bring comfy sandals or sneakers for walking around town.
Book early – Hotels and restaurants fill up quickly, especially from May to September. Reserve your accommodation and dinner spots in advance to get the best options.
Travel light – Many hotels don’t have direct car access, so you might need to carry your luggage up or down stairs. A smaller suitcase or backpack will make your life easier.
Use ferries and bus instead of driving – Parking in Positano is limited and expensive. Ferries from Naples, Sorrento, or Amalfi are scenic, affordable, and stress-free.
Visit in the shoulder season – Late April to early June or September to October are perfect months to visit. The weather is great, and it’s less crowded.
Bring cash – Some smaller shops and beach clubs prefer cash, so it’s good to have euros on hand just in case.
Start your day early – The town gets busy quickly. Early mornings are perfect for peaceful walks and photos before the crowds arrive.
Protect yourself from the sun – The Mediterranean sun can be strong! Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Check out my other posts from Amalfi Coast:
5 days on the Amalfi Coast - The Ultimate Travel Guide & Itinerary
Conclusion
Positano is a beautiful town on the Amalfi Coast that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Whether you decide to stay in Positano for a few days or in a nearby town, it’s absolutely worth the trip. I’ve visited twice — once in September 2022 and again in August 2025 — and both times were wonderful. It wasn’t too crowded, and the experience was unforgettable. I hope you enjoy this blog post! Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram (@sarowly) for more travel inspiration.
