Eight best Positano things to do, relax on the beach, shop, dine, taste limoncello, cruise at sunset, wander, party, rent a Vespa, and more!
Planning a trip to Positano? We’ve fallen in love with this colorful cliffside town, from its charming streets and seaside cafés to stunning beaches and incredible views. After exploring it ourselves, we’re sharing our top things to do, where to eat, and insider tips to make the most of your time on the Amalfi Coast.
Chapters:
THINGS TO DO IN POSITANO
1. Beach Day
Positano Spiaggia
Positano’s main beach is definitely iconic, and it’s easy to see why. The views of the cliffs and colorful buildings are unreal, but it does come with some crowds, especially in the summer. Free spots are hard to come by, so if you want to snag a prime spot, be prepared to pay €70+ for two sunbeds and an umbrella.
The beach itself is rocky, so comfy shoes are a must, but the scenery totally makes up for it. The swimming area is separated by buoys from the marina area, so it’s a bit busier with boats and people, but it’s still perfect for a swim or just relaxing in the sun. It’s not the quietest spot, but if you love a lively, beachy vibe, this place is a must-see!
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Fornillo Beach
Looking for a quieter vibe? Fornillo Beach might just be the place. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the main beach, and it’s rumored to be way less crowded. Plus, the rock jetty blocks the marina’s noise, giving it a more peaceful feel.
We didn’t make it here this time, but we’ve heard it’s even prettier! If you’ve been, drop us a comment, we’re curious to hear about your experience so we know what to expect next time!
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2. Shopping
Lemon Flavored Anything
If you’re visiting Positano, you’ve got to try some of (or all of) the lemon-flavored treats, this place is all about lemons! Try the lemon granita (type of ice dessert) at the stall at the very top of the walking path in Positano. Or find a lemon sorbet (similar to ice cream) served in a massive Amalfi lemon. There are plenty of lemon-y options!
We grabbed some lemon goodies from Valenti to take back home. Valenti is a locally owned shop that’s all about authentic, hand-made products. From lemon-flavored jams to limoncello, they’ve got it all. Plus, they have a lot of lemon-themed trinkets like towels, mugs, and tote bags.
Just a heads-up: be careful with the cheaper stuff from other street vendors! I grabbed a €5 lemon tote bag, and after one wash, the design completely washed off.
Ceramics
If you love unique ceramics, Positano is the place to shop. We popped into Emporio Della Ceramica, a charming little shop with beautiful handmade pottery. I picked up an olive oil bottle (€13) that’s both functional and gorgeous.
The pieces are all vibrant and detailed, giving your home a taste of Italy. Whether you’re into plates, bowls, or more decorative pieces, this is definitely a must-visit for something special to bring back from the trip.
Custom Shoes
One of the coolest things we discovered was the leather cobblers in Positano who will make custom shoes just for you! We didn’t do it this time, but it’s totally on my list for next time. At Rallo Antonio, you can design your own shoes, and they’ll make them to fit your foot perfectly, all in just a few minutes!
Expect to pay around €100-150 per pair, but if you’re looking for something unique and made just for you, it’s definitely worth considering. I can only imagine how cool it would be to leave with a one-of-a-kind pair of shoes!
Check out our 1 Day in Positano blog for more guided adventures!
3. Dine with a View
Budget Meal: Bar Paradise
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal with a view, Bar Paradise is the place to go. It’s perfect for lunch, offering a great view of the beach while you eat. You can enjoy a snack while taking in the waves and soaking in the sunshine, definitely a spot to enjoy the scenery without breaking the bank. The food is simple but tasty, and you can’t beat the view of Positano’s stunning coastline. It’s the perfect place to unwind and have a meal during the day.
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Il Capitano
For a more elevated dining experience, Il Capitano is the spot to go, especially if you want a view that’ll take your breath away. We went here at night, and the view of the twinkling lights on the coast was just unreal.
The food? INCREDIBLE. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but you’re paying for the quality of the meal and that epic Amalfi Coast experience. It’s typical of the high-end restaurants around the area, but its worth it for a special night out. If you want delicious food with a side of stunning views, this is where you should be.
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Complete with our favorite spots to stay, eat, and explore throughout the Amalfi Coast.
4. Limoncello Tasting
If you’re a fan of limoncello (or just love a good drink with a view), Valentì is the place to be. It’s run by the sweetest family, and the spot has an epic view over Positano that will make you feel like you’re in a postcard. During the tasting, we got to learn how limoncello is made from a total pro, he’s not just knowledgeable, but also a born entertainer, making the whole experience so much fun (seriously, we loved him!).
You’ll get to try a bunch of flavored lemon drinks and other local products, and the best part? There’s zero pressure to buy anything, which is great since the tour is on the pricier side. It’s fascinating to learn why lemons and limoncello are such an iconic part of life on the Amalfi Coast, trust me, it’ll make you appreciate that bottle of limoncello even more!
Don’t miss out on our Day Trip from Naples to Capri blog for more adventure!
5. Sunset Cruise
If you think Positano is beautiful from the streets, wait until you see it from the water, it’s next level! The view is even more stunning than from the town itself, with the colorful buildings stacked up against the cliffs and the clear blue water surrounding it. We hopped on a boat, and as we cruised along the coast, it was like we were in a postcard.
The whole place just looks so different from the water, and it’s way more peaceful compared to the busy streets. If you’re planning to visit, do yourself a favor and get out on the water, you won’t regret it!
sunset Tour Options:
Private Tour: Positano: Private Sunset Boat Experience (5.0 ⭐️/5)
- Capture stunning moments on a 1.5-hour private luxury yacht selfie tour from Positano port aboard the elegant Fratelli Aprea 36—starting at $521.06.
Unique Tour: Positano/Praiano: Iconic Fiat 500 Private Amalfi Coast Tour (5.0 ⭐️/5)
Small Group: From Positano: Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise – Group Tour (4.7 ⭐️/5)
- Sail from Positano port on a 1.5-hour small-group sunset cruise along the Amalfi Coast, with stunning views, a cozy Gozzo boat, and a glass of Prosecco—starting at $94.05.
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6. Wander the streets
It might sound simple, but wandering the streets of Positano is actually one of the best ways to take it all in. The narrow, winding streets, built right into the cliffs, make every step feel like an adventure. We got lost on the endless stairs, and honestly, that’s half the fun, each little corner offers something new, whether it’s a hidden shop or a stunning view of the coastline.
You’ll find yourself imagining what it’d be like to live in one of those beautiful homes that seem to hang right off the side of the cliff. And of course, be sure to stop and admire the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, it’s dazzling and definitely worth the moment to just take it in.
Excited for more Amalfi adventures? Read our Amalfi Coast Attractions blog for even more excitement!
7. Party at Music on the Rocks
We’re not exactly the partying type, but we’ve heard that one of the few (if not the only) dancing clubs on the Amalfi Coast is built right into the cliffside, just off the main beach in Positano. It’s the kind of place where the party doesn’t really get started until much later, Italy’s nightlife definitely runs on its own schedule.
If you’re looking to hit the dance floor, you’ll probably need to show up around 2 a.m. to catch it when it’s really buzzing. We didn’t make it there ourselves (we were definitely in bed by then), but if you’re into late-night fun, this spot might just be your scene.
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8. Rent a Vespa to explore more of Amalfi
10/10 would absolutely recommend renting a Vespa to explore the Amalfi Coast! It’s honestly one of the best ways to get around and see more of the stunning views without the hassle of parking or crowded buses. We rented ours from Amalfi Motorent’s Catalog, and they made everything super easy, with options to either just rent the Vespa or book a guided tour if you don’t feel like navigating the roads yourself (highly recommend the tour if you’re a bit nervous about driving).
Cruising along the coast with the breeze in your hair and the ocean right beside you is something you’ll never forget. You can also pause anytime to snap in the views! Check out “How to Get Around the Amalfi Coast by Vespa” for all the info and tips on booking your own ride!
Don’t miss out on our Amalfi Coast Itinerary for more guided adventures around Amalfi!
How to get around Positano
Getting around Positano is all about walking, and we mean lots of walking! The town is built into the cliffs, so be ready to climb a ton of stairs and navigate some steep hills. It’s definitely a workout, but honestly, it’s one of the best ways to soak in the views and explore the charming streets. You’ll find yourself wandering down narrow alleys and popping into cute shops along the way.
Note: Just make sure you wear comfy shoes because you’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot!
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Where to stay in Positano
When it comes to where to stay in Positano, you’ve got options for every vibe. For a luxury stay, go for cliffside resorts with stunning views and top-tier amenities. Mid-range? Cozy boutique hotels or guesthouses strike the perfect balance of comfort and charm. On a budget? Look for local B&Bs or apartments just a short walk from the action!
Luxury: Hotel Eden Roc (5.0⭐️/5)
Mid-Range: Hotel La Bougainville (4.5⭐️/5)
Budget: Pensione Maria Luisa (4.0⭐️/5)
We stayed in Scala at the charming La Margherita Villa Giuseppina, a cozy spot with breathtaking views and warm hospitality. For our adventure, we hopped on a Vespa honestly, the best way to soak in those Amalfi Coast vibes, and rode for about an hour to Positano for a full day of exploring.
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When to visit Positano
Positano gets crowded in July and August, so the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of May or September to October. You’ll enjoy warm weather and fewer tourists, perfect for relaxing and exploring. If you love the sun, summer (June to September) offers great weather, but expect bigger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter vibe, late September or early October is ideal, pleasant temps and less hustle!
Note: The area does close up for the off-season, with most restaurants, hotels, and shops closed from November to March.
After exploring Positano, check out our Day Trip from Naples to Capri blog for more amazing tours!
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What to bring for the trip to Positano
To fully enjoy your trip, here’s a helpful list of must-haves to pack, so you’re set for a day of adventure and relaxation in comfort.
- Comfy Shoes – Positano’s hills are no joke, so comfy shoes are a must for all that walking and exploring.
- Sunscreen – Don’t forget the sunscreen! You’ll want to stay protected while soaking up the Amalfi Coast sun.
- Sun Hat – A sun hat is perfect for keeping cool and adding some style to your beach look.
- Swimsuit – Pack your best swimsuit for beach days and dips in the crystal-clear water.
- Beach Towel – Don’t forget a towel for relaxing on the sand or drying off after a dip in the water.
- Waterproof Bag – Keep your phone and wallet safe from water with a waterproof bag for beach days or boat rides.
- Camera – Positano is too pretty not to capture. Bring a camera to snap those Instagram-worthy moments.
- Sunglasses – Keep your eyes safe from the bright sun and stay stylish at the same time.
- Camera Holder – A camera holder helps you snap steady pics while you’re on the move.
- Phone Strap – Keep your phone secure with a strap so you don’t lose it while adventuring.
- Cash – Many places in Positano prefer cash, so make sure to bring some along for shopping, tips, or small local purchases.
Read our Italy Travel Cost blog for tips on a budget-friendly adventure!
And that’s a wrap on the 8 best things to do in Positano! With this guide, you’re ready to enjoy the perfect mix of beach time, shopping, dining, and cruising in one of Italy’s most stunning spots. Whether you’re sipping limoncello or zipping around on a Vespa, there’s an adventure waiting for you at every corner!
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