If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful town, check out our Positano guide – from places to eat and stay to things to see and do, we’ll help you make your visit one to remember…
Photos by Laura Thayer and iStock
What to see and do
SANTA MARIA ASSUNTA
While its origins date back to the 10th century, Positano’s main church as seen today is from the 18th century, including the Neoclassical interior with gold details. A treasured 12th-century icon of the Virgin Mary hangs above the altar. The church is located on the site of an ancient Roman villa, and the archaeological site is scheduled to open to visitors in 2018.
Via Marina Grande
+39 089 875480; www.chiesapositano.it
SPIAGGIA GRANDE BEACH
Positano’s main beach stretches out along the base of the town just steps from Santa Maria Assunta and is lined with restaurants and shops. Much of the beach is managed by private establishments that rent out sunbeds and umbrellas along with offering changing rooms and shower facilities. However, a free area is open to the public in the middle of the beach.
Via Marina Grande
FORNILLO BEACH
The second largest beach in Positano is mainly missed by day trippers, but is easily reached by foot along Via Positanesi d’America or by boat service by the private beach establishments like Da Ferdinando. Local legend says that the name refers to ancient Roman times when there were bread ovens (forno in Italian) here that were favoured by Emperor Tiberius.
Via Fornillo
PATHWAY OF THE GODS
Considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the world, the Sentiero degli Dei literally translates as Pathway of the Gods. Leading from the hamlet of Bomerano in Agerola to the hamlet of Nocelle high above Positano, it meanders through the beautiful Monti Lattari and offers spectacular views over the Amalfi coastline all the way to Capri.
Sentiero degli Dei
LI GALLI ISLANDS
Often described as the mythical home to the Sirens in the Ancient Greek world, this small archipelago is famous today for once being the home of Russian dancer Léonide Massine and later Rudolf Nureyev. While the islands are privately owned, get a closer look on a cruise from Positano and stop for a swim between the islands.
Where to stay
LE SIRENUSE
Regularly voted as one of the top luxury hotels in Italy, Le Sirenuse is a Positano icon. Opened in 1951 by the Sersale family, the hotel has perfected modern luxury while maintaining a family atmosphere. From the Michelin-starred La Sponda restaurant to cocktails at trendy Franco’s Bar, a stay at Le Sirenuse is as dreamy as the view if offers overlooking Positano.
Via Cristoforo Colombo, 30
+39 089 875066; www.sirenuse.it
PALAZZO MURAT
Located near Santa Maria Assunta, this hotel offers a stay surrounded by history. Stepping into the beautifully curated garden courtyard of this 18th-century palace is like going back in time. This was once the favourite summer residence of Gioacchino Murat – Napoleon’s brother-in-law and the King of Naples. Enjoy a stay fit for royalty right in the heart of Positano!
Via dei Mulini, 23
+39 089 875177; www.palazzomurat.it
COVO DEI SARACENI
For travellers looking to be right in the centre of action, this boutique hotel has an enviable location overlooking Positano’s main beach and near the pier where ferries arrive and depart. Some rooms even feature private pools and jacuzzis. The hotel’s pool terrace offers one of the best spots for relaxing with a panoramic view of Positano.
Via Regina Giovanna, 5
+39 089 875400; www.covodeisaraceni.it
CASA BUONOCORE
Situated in the heart of Positano near Le Sirenuse, this 6-room guest house offers panoramic views at a price much easier on the budget than its five-star neighbour. Each room looks straight out of design magazine and offers a cosy and friendly setting where travellers can truly feel like a part of the Buonocore family.
Via Cristoforo Colombo, 77
+39 089 875085; casabuonocore.com
VILLA MARY
One of Positano’s most popular B&Bs and with good reason. Located near the top of Positano, the sea view rooms offer views of the tumble of pastel buildings spilling down to the sea. Stylish rooms, attentive service, and a breakfast to remember are just a few of the features that recommend this charming B&B.
Via Liparlati, 53
+39 089 875216; villamary.it
Where to eat
DA VINCENZO
Here’s where to find the most traditional Amalfi Coast pasta dishes served in a welcoming family setting. Don’t miss the stuffed courgette flower appetizer and the pasta with clams or mussels. Save room for dessert and, of course, a limoncello!
Viale Pasitea, 172/178
+39 089 875128; www.davincenzo.it
CASA E BOTTEGA
This is the address to head to in Positano for juice, smoothie bowls, and a menu of fresh dishes. Open for breakfast through mid-afternoon, the setting is just as refreshing as the menu, along with tempting ceramics and homeware items for sale in the restaurant’s boutique.
Viale Pasitea, 100
+39 089 875225; Casa e Bottega on Facebook
LA PERGOLA
Located under a shady pergola just steps from the Spiagga Grande at the base of Santa Maria Assunta, this centrally located restaurant is a great choice for a light lunch with a large menu option or leisurely drinks. In the evening, find a
cozy corner for a romantic dinner followed by romantic stroll by the sea.
Via del Brigantino, 35/37
+39 089 811461; www.bucapositano.it
DA FERDINANDO
Head to Fornillo beach and find a table at this tiny beachside restaurant to enjoy freshly prepared local specialties. You can’t go wrong with seafood here, especially the marinated anchovies and calamari and shrimp salad. After lunch, lounge on a sunbed by the sea just steps away.
Via Fornillo, 24
+089 875 365; Da Ferdinando on Facebook
LA TAGLIATA
Escape to the mountain hamlet of Montepertuso above Positano for a very different dining experience. Here the menu is rich with hearty fare like grilled meat, locally made cheese and organic vegetables fresh from the garden terraces nearby. This is the place for local cooking in a rustic setting accompanied by sweeping views.
Via Tagliata, 32b
+39 089 875872; www.latagliata.com
For more, see our 48 Hours in Positano feature