13 EPIC Things to Do in Positano, Italy

Looking for the best things to do in Positano, Italy? You’ve come to the right place! Positano is known as the Pearl of the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason.

With its narrow streets, colorful buildings, unique art galleries, and best views of the steep hills and Mediterranean Sea, it’s one of the most unique coastal towns you will ever see.

You can easily spend a day, or more, getting lost in the winding roads and panoramic views of Positano.

But Positano isn’t just a pretty town, there are plenty of things to do in Positano and its surroundings that make it worth visiting.

In this article I have outlined all of the best things to do in the town of Positano, as well as other popular activities you can do around Positano.

I’ve also included useful logistics like where to stay, how to get around, how many days to spend in Positano, and more. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and discover the best things to do in Positano!

Logistical tips for your time in Positano

Before we dive into the best things to do in Positano, I wanted to give you an overview of useful information, which will help you make the most of your time in Positano.

Where to stay in Positano

Being such a popular stop on every Italy itinerary, Positano is a fairly expensive destination. However, don’t let that deter, as it is possible to stay in Positano (and Amalfi Coast in general) without breaking your Italy travel budget.

Budget: Anna Apartment – If you’re on a budget, Anna Apartment is where to stay in Positano for value for money. It’s a holiday apartment with charming tiled floors, the use of your own kitchen, and a balcony with views out over the sea.

Click here to book your stay at Anna Apartment in Positano!

Mid-range: Hotel Villa Gabrisa – This family-run property has only 12 rooms, so you can expect an intimate stay and friendliness throughout. Rooms are classically decorated, and its balconies have mesmerising views over the sea.

Click here to see the prices & availability at Hotel Villa Gabrisa!

Luxury: Le Sirenuse – This is the luxury hotel in Positano by definition. With its gorgeous design, impeccable service, stunning views and central position, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself.

Click here to book your stay at Le Sirenuse in Positano!

Do you need travel insurance for your trip to Positano?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance.

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Italy travel insurance with  Heymondo.

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance!

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Best time to visit Positano

Despite popular belief, the summer months aren’t the best time to visit Positano. Summer is way too hot, super busy, and ridiculously expensive.

On the other hand, winter is cold and rainy, and many cafes, restaurants and hotels will be shut for the season. That leaves spring and autumn; the shoulder season.

The weather is still pleasant in spring and autumn, the beaches and towns are less crowded, and you won’t get stuck in traffic trying to get around.

The closer to the summer season you go, the nicer the weather will be, and the busier it will be not just in Positano, but on the Amalfi Coast in general.

Early spring or late autumn is best for fewer people, but the weather won’t always be amazing.

How many days do you need in Positano?

Personally, I think you could get away with spending only one, or two days at most, in Positano. While it’s undeniably a stunning coastal town, there isn’t loads to do in the town itself.

Lots of the best things to do in Positano are actually surrounding it. So while you don’t need long to discover the town of Positano, I do believe you need at least five days in Amalfi Coast to properly enjoy its beauty.

It will obviously depend on the rest of your Italy itinerary, but please don’t be one of those travellers who visits Positano and the Amalfi Coast on a day trip from Rome.

If it’s a must-see on every Italy bucket list, there’s a reason. So give yourself at least five days in Amalfi Coast, and spend at least one day discovering Positano.

How to get around Positano

Positano itself is a fairly small town, which you can easily discover on foot. If you plan to discover beyond just Positano, then I recommend hiring a scooter.

It’s the easiest way to get around, but as the roads are very winding, I would only hire a scooter if you have experience driving one.

You could get a car, but only if you’re visiting in low season, since in summer you’d be stuck in traffic (or looking for parking) the whole time.

There’s also public transport. High season means buses will be packed, but it’s pretty extensive and you can use buses and trains to get to pretty much anywhere you’ll want to go. 

Ferries also connect the main towns; plus, if you book in advance, you get a guaranteed seat. I’d recommend downloading an app like Ferryhopper, which can help you navigate the ferries with ease. 

Best things to do in Positano

Enjoy the views over Positano

First on this itinerary of things to do in Positano is; admire those Amalfi Coast views. There are plenty of spots to get good views, with much of the town clinging to the sides of cliffs, but there are two particularly famous spots.

These can be found along the main road around Positano. Here you can get that iconic view over the houses spilling down the cliffs, the hills, and the sparkling sea.

The first viewpoint has a couple of cafes nearby, where you can stop to admire the view with a coffee and a snack. It’s not an official viewpoint, it’s just the sidewalk of Via Cristoforo Colombo, but the views are great.

The second viewpoint does have a dedicated viewing terrace, where you can get the perfect photo of Positano.

But realistically, from anywhere along that main road you can get good views over the town. Just bear in mind that it’s a one way street, so if you drive past it you’ll have to drive all the way round to loop back.

Watch the Sunset in Positano

Because it has such amazing views, one of the best things to do in Positano is to watch the sunset. One of my favourite spots is the first viewpoint I just mentioned above, along Via Cristoforo Colombo.

A place to admire it is Angelo Cafe – a reasonably priced venue with standing tables on a terrace that overlook the amazing Positano vista.

For somewhere a bit fancier, head to Franco’s Bar for an aperitivo. The view from here is simply beautiful, and sunsets are even more amazing.

So, if it’s getting near to evening and you’re wondering what to do in Positano, find a spot for sunset and get ready to be wowed.

Watching the sun go down along the coast, turning the sky red and all the town light up, is simply a magical experience.

Relax at Spiaggia di Marina Grande

Beach lovers should definitely make sure they have a trip to Marina Grande beach on their list of what to do in Positano for a day.

Located at the foot of the pastel-hued houses that cling to the cliffs, Spiaggia di Positano Marina Grande is Positano’s main beach. The sandy shoreline is a lovely place to soak up the sun for a few hours.

It may not be the prettiest beach you’ve ever seen, but there’s plenty of amenities from the public area to the roped-off private areas where you can hire sun loungers and umbrellas.

It’s a lively atmosphere, with restaurants, bars and cafes edging the beach. There’s also a section of public beach where you don’t have to pay for a sun lounger, but it gets very full very quickly.

If you’re visiting Italy in high season it does get pretty busy down here; so make sure to get there early if you want to grab a spot. 

Relax at Fornillo Beach

For more fun things to do in Positano, look no further than Fornillo Beach. It may not be as big as Spiaggia Grande, but for me it’s nicer – not only is it prettier, but it’s also quieter, which makes for a more relaxing time.

There’s more of a laid-back atmosphere at Fornillo Beach, with locals enjoying a cooling swim in the sea.

There are a number of steps you’ll have to descend to get to Fornillo Beach, however, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear.

You’ll find it about a 10-minute walk from Spiaggia Grande. There are a few little beach kiosks here and places to rent chairs and umbrellas for the day.

If what you want to do in Positano is seek good times, then make sure to head here if you’re visiting Italy in summer – the seasonal beach bars here can get fairly lively as the sun starts to set!

Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

If you’re wondering what is Positano known for aside from its beach clubs and beaches, then head to Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

This beautiful church is the main place of worship in Positano and is often seen dominating iconic photography of the coastal town.

Dating back to 1159, this centuries-old church is topped by a colourful dome decorated with shining, glazed majolica tiles.

Step inside to see the famous Black Madonna and Child, the Byzantine-style icon that dates back to the 13^th century. It’s steeped in various legends of pirates and smuggling.

If you’re here on the weekend you may even be able to spot a wedding taking place, only adding to the romance of one of southern Italy’s most popular churches for weddings.

Discover the iconic Fiordo di Furore

Located just a 25-minute drive from Positano, Fiordo di Furore is one of the most iconic sights of the Amalfi Coast.

At Fiordo di Furore you will find a small beach at the end of a narrow cove, with steep cliffs on either side and a very scenic arched bridge towering over it.

The water is incredibly turquoise and crystal clear, which adds to the beauty of this spot. It’s completely different from the fancy beaches of Spiaggia Grande or Fornillo in Positano, but not necessarily in a bad way.

Just bear in mind that there are no services of any kind here (no sun-beds, umbrellas, cafes, or restaurants), so make sure to pack everything you need for a day at the beach!

Go for a Positano Sunset Boat Trip

When you’re in Positano, things to do don’t get more quintessentially romantic than a private boat tour at sunset. This portion of the Amalfi Coast is particularly pretty when seen from the water.

A good option is to take this particular sunset cruise, which sees you heading out on a luxury yacht to drop anchor and admire the gorgeous scenery as the sun begins to sink below the horizon.

We did this private sunset tour in Positano and it was pretty magical. It’s quite expensive for what you get, but if you’re visiting Amalfi Coast for a special occasion, it’s the kind of unique experience you will never forget.

There’s also the option to add on champagne and snacks to make this a romantic aperitif before heading out for dinner somewhere splendid.

Click here to book your Positano private sunset cruise!

Go for a Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast 

If you’re looking for activities in Positano that allow you to see the Amalfi Coast in all its picturesque glory, then a Positano boat tour along the shoreline is a good bet.

This tour starts off in the centre of Amalfi, then sets sail for a scenic cruise taking in the main spots along the Amalfi Coast. 

The route sees you swinging by some of the most beautiful beaches the coast has to offer (including those only accessible by sea).

These include famous landmarks such as Saint Andrew’s Grotto, the Arch of Lovers and the Fiordo di Furore, as well as other dramatic rock formations and charming towns along the way.

Click here to book your Positano & Amalfi Coast boat tour!

Hike the Path of the Gods

One of the most famous Positano attractions has to be hiking the Path of the Gods (or Sentiero degli Dei in Italian).

This iconic hiking route is much loved and for good reason – the views from 630-metres up on this clifftop trail are absolutely sublime. 

Taking approximately three hours to tackle, this hike runs between the towns of Bomerano and Nocelle, with an option to continue onwards to Positano.

Along the way you’ll pass olive groves and picturesque swaying grasses underneath the blue open skies, with the azure sea glistening below. From the hiking trail you also get an awesome view of Positano in the distance.

It reminded me of the Sentiero Azzurro hike in Cinque Terre. Paired with the perched houses and mountainous views, it’s easy to see why so many people draw comparisons between Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre.

It’s simple to follow and not overly strenuous, but note that the final descent of this hike involves over 1,000 steps. This means it can be quite tough on the knees, so I’d recommend taking it slowly.

If you don’t want to worry about getting lost on the hike, or having to organise transfers to Bomerano, you can also join a guided Path of the Gods hike with local tour guide.

Click here to book your guided Path of the Gods hike!

Go on a day Trip to the Island of Capri

Even though you’re in Positano, amazing places to see are just a stone’s throw from this Amalfi Coast town. Case in point: Capri.

This iconic island has been home to Roman emperors and nobility, as well as Hollywood film stars.

Doing a day trip to Capri is super easy. Ferries leave seven times per day in high season (either from Positano or Amalfi) and take between 30 minutes to an hour to reach the shores of Capri.

Once you’re on the island, either embark on a Capri boat tour that runs around the coast of Capri – stopping off at the main highlights including the Green and White Grottoes, and the Faraglioni Rocks – or opt for a tour on the island itself.

You’ll discover the ruins of an Imperial Roman palace, and a viewpoint atop the isle that affords sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Click here to book your full-day boat tour to Capri from Positano!

Explore the Ruins of Pompeii

There are plenty of places to visit in Positano, but as shown by the proximity of Capri, there are plenty of cool spots nearby too. 

The ancient archaeological site of Pompeii is around 40 kilometres from Positano (taking around an hour to drive), or you could catch the train (from Amalfi), which takes 30 minutes and costs about 4 EUR.

There are also lots of Pompeii day tours to make things much easier – you’ll get collected from your accommodation and cut out the hassle of transport.

No matter how you get there, once you’re at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can spend the day learning all about what life was like for the ancient Romans who lived in Pompeii.

See the lavish villas, bars, brothels and walk down the cobbled streets of the ruins of Pompeii. I recommend taking a tour of the town so you can get a deep understanding of the site.

Click here to book your Positano to Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius guided tour!

Wander Around the Cute Streets Of Positano

A must-see in Positano, Italy, is to simply explore the narrow lanes of the town. These winding alleyways can seem like a labyrinth when you’re wandering around them, and that’s actually by design.

These pedestrianised lanes were purposely laid out in a confusing manner in order to protect the town from marauding pirates centuries ago. 

So, make sure to take some time to discover this part of town on foot, stumbling across pretty churches, flower-clad houses, and pastel-coloured doorways.

Enjoy A Meal with A View 

One of the top things to do in Positano is to treat yourself to a meal with a view, whether that’s lunch or a sunset dinner and drinks.

The elegant La Sponda, which overlooks the chiesa, is probably the most famous restaurant for its beautiful views.

If you don’t want to spend too much (La Sponda is pretty pricey and more into fine dining), don’t worry, as the town is packed with restaurants boasting that iconic Positano view.

Most restaurants with views won’t be amazing in terms of food and will likely be over priced (like  in every tourist hotspot) – you pay for the view, right – but there are exceptions.

One of these is C’era Una Volta, a down-to-earth trattoria with unbelievably budget-friendly food and drinks (and views!). It’s worlds away from overpriced tourist restaurants in town. 

La Cambusa is also another option. Known for its seafood as much as its seafront terrace, this restaurant is both not too priced and has good food to match the views.

Final thoughts on must see in Positano Italy

There you have it, the ultimate guide to the top Positano attractions! Have you been to Positano and Amalfi Coast before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Positano is one of the most iconic and recognisable towns in Italy. Alongside Venice, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, Rome and Florence, it’s one of the best places to visit in Italy.

With its cobbled streets, perched houses, crystal clear water and mountainous coastline, it creates a stunning picture. Seeing the Pearl of the Amalfi Coast in person is something you will remember forever.

I hope you found my guide to the best things to do in Positano useful! If you have any questions about Positano, just let me know in the comments below!

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