Imagine a small town with colorful houses, overlooking the sea and defying the laws of gravity on a cliffside... That's it! You're in Positano, a charming village on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy! The beach below invites you to let go, while the azure-blue sea seems to beckon you to some magnificent excursions. You can't resist one of Italy's most beautiful villages- and why should you? Embrace the Italian Dolce Vita, savoring the tranquility and beauty of southern Italy, with these 13 must-do activities in Positano.
1. Enjoy Positano's heavenly beaches
The seaside resort of Positano is renowned for the beauty of its beaches. Enjoying the peaceful Italian way of life means taking the time to bask in the sun. Three fine sandy beaches are at your disposal for a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean:
- Spiaggia Grande spiaggia Grande: very busy, there's not always room for everyone. A pity, because the view of the colorful cliffside houses is superb! Small bonus for its amenities, such as bars, restaurants and parasols / deckchairs for hire (a little expensive though).
- Spiaggia di Arienzo: the beach for the brave who want to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the town center! You'll have to climb down 300 steps to reach a superb cove. The view will turn your beach day into a magical moment!
- Fornillo beach: this wild bay, far from the main points of interest and amenities, offers appreciable peace and quiet. Lovers of snorkelling and heavenly scenery, you've found your secret hideaway!
From the quietest beaches to those closest to town, there's something for everyone on Positano's beautiful stretches of fine sand.
2. Visit the superb church of Santa Maria Assunta e Cripta Medievale
Positano's best-known historic building, theChurch of Santa Maria Assunta is located on the site of an ancient Benedictine monastery. Although dating from the Xᵉ century, it was extensively restored in the XVIIIᵉ century. Inside, you can admire several chapels adorned with precious religious objects. The Byzantine icon of the Madonna and the shepherds from the Neapolitan crib of 1700 are perfect representatives. Its impressive architecture is distinguished by its green and yellow ceramic dome. Santa Maria Assunta is pure splendor, with its spectacular views and adorably romantic setting. You don't need to be a fan of sacred art to appreciate the beauty, both inside and out, of this magnificent church, which is also the oldest building in the city.
3. The Path of the Gods, a magical hike in Positano
The Path of the Gods, Positano's must-see hike, is steeped in mystery and mythology. According to legend, this magnificent path was used by the gods to rescue Ulysses from the sirens. It's a wonderful story, and one that makes you want to set foot on this beautiful hiking trail, which links Positano and Agerola. You're off on an 8 km walk, with spectacular views over the vineyards and surrounding countryside. As you walk, you'll admire one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Mediterranean, creating emotions... and superb photos!
Tip by Petit Futé : it's best to start your hike from Agerola. It's easier to park there than in Positano (unless you're already comfortable!). You can also book this guided hike on the Path of the Gods from Sorrento, 30 minutes from Positano.
4. The Emerald Grotto, treasure of the Amalfi Coast
With its blue water seeming to glow in the dark, the Grotta d'Emeraude, or Grotta del Smeraldo, is one of Positano's must-see wonders. The visit to this karst cavity, partially invaded by the sea, takes around 20 minutes. It can be reached by car, on foot or by boat. The limpidity of the water, which stands out amid the stalagmites and stalactites, makes it one of the most beautiful natural sites to see around Positano. As an added bonus, rare animal species can sometimes come and say hello. Keep your eyes peeled!
5. Soak up the charm of Positano's narrow streets
Soak up the Mediterranean sunshine as you stroll through Positano's cobblestone streets. A gentle reverie will overtake you, as you admire the town's pretty, colorful houses, ancestral church and small ceramic stores. Beware, as the town is perched on a cliffside... it's a climb! You'll need good shoes and a fresh water bottle, but it's a very pleasant walk. All over Positano, designers and artisans are on hand to sell their wares. Some even offer the chance to make your own handicrafts!
We recommend exploring the narrow streets of Positano's old town and city center by booking this guided walking tour.
6. Discover the MAR, the Roman Archaeological Museum
To enter the Roman Archaeological Museum is to step into the Roman world of yesteryear. Located beneath the town's church, it is in fact an ancient Roman villa buried after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The murals are a marvel to behold, and can be admired on your own or with a guided tour. The latter is recommended, to fully understand the history of the site. This historic site, which has preserved its splendor of yesteryear, exudes an intense emotion.
7. Fornillo, from cave to beach
The grotto of Fornillo is visible from Positano's main road. It houses a miniature village representing Positano, created by the locals over 30 years ago. Fornillo, Positano's historic district, is famous for its magnificent natural grotto, where it's nice and cool in summer. On the way down to Fornillo beach, you'll come across the unusual little church of Santa Margherita. Why unusual? For its terracotta floor, which makes for a truly astonishing setting!
8. A guided tour: 3 towns in one!
A must on any trip to southern Italy is a guided tour of three emblematic towns: Positano, Ravello and Amalfi. Perched on its hilltop, Ravello offers an enchanting setting and a splendid view of the sea and surrounding area. On a clear day, you're sure to get some great photos! Although Amalfi is a little less wild, the town has retained its Italian charm, with colorful houses similar to those in the other two towns. You'll come away enchanted by this magnificent guided tour of the Amalfi coast! Don't hesitate to contact the tourist office for more information, or book online right here.
9. Visit an Italian art gallery
Designers, craftsmen and artists have it easy in Italy, and Positano is no exception. Let your artistic soul find inspiration at Art&Craft, an art workshop and studio founded by painter Angeloni. Here you'll find a space dedicated to young artists and various art forms: painting, sculpture, ceramics and design, all artistic tastes are catered for!
The watchword here is simple: when you buy a work of art, you acquire a piece of the artist's heart and soul. At Art&Craft, you'll find an art boutique, as well as a space dedicated to artistic expression.
10. Discover the art of glassblowing in Positano
Italian art is expressed through its creations in blown glass, as can be admired at Absolute Positano. Here, artists offer their creations for sale in 1001 colors, creating an enchanting kaleidoscope. Even if you don't buy anything, a visit to this colorful store is pure delight for the eyes! Murano glass and paintings by local artists stand side by side, offering visitors to Positano magnificent authentic souvenirs of their Italian vacations. A real favorite!
11. Take Italian cooking lessons in a friendly atmosphere
Let yourself be carried away by the infectious good humor of La Tagliata, an Italian restaurant perched high above Positano. In addition to delicious homemade dishes, the chef offers authentic cooking classes, just like at home! Laugh, sing, dance - in short, learn to cook like a chef, in a family atmosphere like no other. From visiting the gardens to collecting the fruits and vegetables you'll cook, this will be one of the best and most authentic experiences of your stay in Positano.
Tempted? Learn how to prepare traditional pasta and tiramisu in a local house under the guidance of an Italian chef with this cooking class bookable right here. You'll enjoy everything you've prepared with a local wine or glass of prosecco.
12. Discover Capri by boat!
Why not visit Capri from Positano? This is one of the most beautiful sea excursions you can make from your vacation destination. All the beauty of the Amalfi coast awaits you. The boat trip, usually enjoyed in small groups, allows you to savor fine Italian dishes accompanied by a glass of limoncello. Some excursions include snorkeling. It's time to head off to the island of Capri, for a self-guided tour lasting just a few hours.
Book my one-day boat trip to Capri
13. Taste the typical dishes of the Amalfi Coast
It's impossible to miss the Amalfi lemon, which can be found both in sweet treats and as an accompaniment to fish and other savory dishes. This emblematic local lemon can be enjoyed at Da Adolfo, a straw hut accessible only by boat. Here, it is cooked with mozzarella, making a refreshing dish in hot weather. We also invite you to try spaghetti alla puttanesca, made with anchovies, capers and garlic. Lemon, of course, is found in the famous limoncello, a sweet digestive to be enjoyed in moderation! Many recipes incorporate this liqueur, such as baba, which is no longer made with rum... but with lemon. In southern Italy, even ricotta ravioli is flavored with lemon! It's definitely a must-have, and could well win back the favor of those who generally find it too acidic.
Gourmet friends, discover the 20 Italian culinary specialties to try during your stay. A pure Mediterranean delight!
Where to stay in Positano?
For a vacation or a romantic weekend away, Positano is the ideal place to put down your bags under the Mediterranean sun.
- The most elegant
Top-of-the-range comfort is on offer at Villa Gabrisa, a mountainside residence with a breathtaking view of the coast. Elegant and comfortable, you'll enjoy a superb old-fashioned room, some of which overlook the sea. Click here to book a room at this beautiful Positano establishment.
- The most incredible location
What would you say to a room and restaurant terrace overlooking Fornillo beach?Hotel Pupetto is a true corner of paradise, with its bright, spacious rooms offering optimum comfort. While the beach is busy during the day, in the evening you can enjoy the peace and quiet in the shade of a natural pergola. Click here to book this dream hotel.
- The most luxurious
Il San Pietro is not for everyone's pocket, but it offers a dream setting for those seeking a luxurious stay. Swimming pool overlooking the sea, spa, top-of-the-range hotel, pampering, private beach : book here the recipe for a refined stay on the Amalfi Coast.
What can you visit in Positano in a day?
Do you have just one day to visit Positano? If so, you may have to skip the beaches. Just enjoy the view, and concentrate your time on the more typical visits, which in the morning include :
- the colorful alleyways of the city center,
- the church of Santa Maria Assunta e Cripta Medievale,
- the MAR and the Roman Archaeological Museum.
Your stroll through the city center will be an opportunity to discover local art and design boutiques. In theafternoon, treat yourself to a boat trip to the Emerald Grotto - it's really worth it!
Planning a road trip? The Positano - Sorrento - Pompeii - Naples route, whose 18 must-sees you can discover here, offers a great discovery trip! Finally, check out our must-see tours of Capri. After that, you might want to consider a stopover on this dreamy little island.
Where to park in Positano?
It's a well-known fact that parking in Positano is no easy task... A word of advice: if you can find a hotel with parking facilities, go for it! If you can't, we recommend arriving by bus or cab, to avoid parking problems. Just visiting for the day? You'll need to use your imagination. You have two options:
- Park along the road: many people park along the winding road outside the village, then walk to the center. However, this option includes the risk of having your car snagged..
- Use the paid parking lots: located on the road leading down to the center, they are managed by wardens who charge around €5 an hour (prices vary according to the season). Please note, however, that you'll need to leave your car keys with the attendant.
In any case, the parking lots are not in the city center, so plan to walk a little! Finally, note that the road to the center is a one-way street. So don't spend too much time looking for a parking space. Spaces are scarce anyway, so don't be picky!
A final word of advice from your wily fox: if you can, we suggest you visit Positano in spring. In fact, Italy is one of the best destinations to visit in April, so you can enjoy the fine weather without the summer crowds. When you travel in May or April, it's much easier to park!
The entire Amalfi Coast is a marvel. The colorful houses, cliffs, lush greenery and crystal-clear sea plunge you into a fairytale world that's hard to tear yourself away from. Go one step further with our 15 must-dos on the Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy. If the villages are splendid, we invite you to complete your visits with the most beautiful Italian cities to discover during your vacation. Wherever you are, Italy is an absolutely magical country to visit. Discover its finest treasures with these 27 must-do things to do in Italy.
Book in advance below for the hottest things to do in Positano:
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