Nestled on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a picturesque town that will leave you enchanted with its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. With its colorful buildings, charming streets, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why this beautiful town is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there are plenty of enchanting things to do in Positano that will make your trip unforgettable. From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, here are 15 things you won’t want to miss in Positano:
1. Visit the Beaches
Positano is well-known for its beautiful beaches, which have crystal blue seas and wonderful vistas of the Amalfi Coast. Spiaggia Grande, situated in the center of Positano, is the most well-known beach. This beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It also has a number of restaurants and pubs where you can have a tasty meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the scenery. Fornillo Beach, situated only a short walk from the town center, is another famous beach in Positano. This beach is less busy than Spiaggia Grande and has a more laid-back vibe. It’s ideal for couples and families looking for some peace and quiet. If you want to go to a quiet beach, Arienzo Beach is the place to go. This beach is situated outside of Positano and is only accessible by boat or a lengthy set of stairs. It is a little more difficult to get there, but the effort is well worth it. Arienzo Beach has beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs and is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Related article: The Charm of Alta Badia & Val Badia in the Dolomites
2. Explore the Town
Positano is a picturesque seaside village that boasts charming alleyways and colorful villas that seem to blend into the rugged hillsides. A stroll through this charming town is one of the top 16 things to do in Positano, as it reveals hidden gems at every turn.
One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, located in the heart of the village. This stunning church is renowned for its Byzantine-style architecture and houses a magnificent image of the Virgin Mary. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates history, culture, and art.
Positano is also famous for its exquisite pottery shops that sell handmade ceramics. The town’s artisans have been crafting ceramics for generations, and visitors will be amazed by the intricate designs on display. Anything from plates and bowls to vases and figurines can be found in these charming shops, making them the perfect places to pick up a unique souvenir or a thoughtful gift.
For a breathtaking panoramic view of Positano, head to the highest point of the town. Here, you’ll find various viewpoints that offer spectacular vistas of the town and the surrounding hills. One of the best views can be found along the Way of the Gods, a hiking trail that boasts stunning views of the sea and mountains.
3. Take a Boat Tour
A boat cruise is one of the greatest ways to appreciate the beauty of Positano. Many boat cruises leave from the town’s dock and provide a unique view of the Amalfi Coast. There are a number of excursions available, including sunset cruises, snorkeling tours, and fishing outings. You will get the chance to appreciate the gorgeous coastline, swim in the crystal blue seas, and discover secret coves and beaches that are only accessible by boat during the boat trip. On board, you may also have a tasty meal or a nice drink while admiring the view.
Check out this activity:
4. Visit the Churches
Positano has numerous lovely churches worth seeing. The most well-known church is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which is situated in the town center. It is a must-see sight since it has a magnificent Byzantine-style image of the Virgin Mary. The Church of San Giovanni Battista, perched on a hill above Positano, is another lovely church. Its chapel provides breathtaking views of Positano and the surrounding hills, making it an ideal location for photographs.
5. Go Shopping
Positano is a haven for shoppers and fashion enthusiasts alike and is one of the top 16 things to do in Positano. The town is famous for its handcrafted pottery, luxurious linen garments, and top-quality leather products. Art galleries dotted throughout the town showcase the work of local artists, making Positano a hub for creativity and unique finds.
For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, the small alleyways that wind their way down to the shore are the perfect places to shop. Here, visitors will find an array of boutiques selling everything from handcrafted footwear to high-end apparel. One of the most renowned boutiques in Positano is La Botteguccia, a family-owned business that has been operating since 1947. The shop is known for its handcrafted, made-to-measure sandals that are a must-see for anyone who loves fashion.
The history of Positano’s fashion industry can be traced back to the 1950s when the town became a popular destination for artists, writers, and celebrities. It was during this time that the town’s artisans began to create unique and high-quality items that were favored by the town’s elite visitors. Today, Positano remains an important center for fashion and craftsmanship, with its shops and boutiques continuing to draw visitors from around the world.
6. Hike the Path of the Gods
If you like trekking, the Way of the Gods is a must-see attraction. This hiking path provides breathtaking views of the sea and adjacent hills. The route is 7.8 kilometers long and takes 3–4 hours to complete. The path is not difficult, so wear comfortable shoes and bring lots of drinks and sunscreen. The walk begins in Bomerano, a little town just outside Positano. It then rises into the highlands and traverses a crest with breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. The walk concludes in Nocelle, a little town above Positano.
Check this activity:
7. Enjoy Local Food and Wine
Positano is famous for its delectable local cuisine, which includes fresh fish, handmade pasta, and vegetables produced locally. Positano has various restaurants that provide typical Italian foods as well as local delicacies like lemon risotto and fish stew. Don’t miss out on the local wine, which is created from grapes cultivated on neighboring slopes. La Tagliata, one of Positano’s top restaurants, serves a set menu of classic Italian meals. The restaurant is situated in the hills above Positano and provides breathtaking views of the town and the sea. Da Vincenzo, which is situated on the shore and serves fresh fish and handmade pasta, is another excellent option.
8. Learn to Cook Italian Cuisine
If you like cooking, you might try taking a culinary class in Positano. Throughout town, there are various culinary schools that provide lessons on typical Italian meals, including pizza, pasta, and gelato. Classes are often taught in small groups by professional chefs who will teach you the secrets of Italian food. Cooking Vacations Italy, which provides cooking instruction and culinary excursions around Italy, is one of the greatest cooking schools in Positano. The sessions are conducted in a magnificent home with a view of the sea and involve a visit to a local market to purchase supplies.
Check out these activities:
9. Visit the Museums
Positano features a number of museums that highlight the town’s history and culture. The Museo Archeologico Romano, which shows antiquities from ancient Rome, is the most popular museum. The museum is situated in the heart of town and is a must-see for history aficionados. The Museo Della Mode e del Costume in Positano is another excellent museum that shows traditional Amalfi Coast apparel and accessories. The museum is housed in a lovely home overlooking the sea, with wonderful views of Positano.
10. Attend a Music Festival
Positano has a thriving music culture, with several music festivals and concerts conducted throughout the year. The Positano Jazz Festival, held in July and August, is the most well-known jazz event. The festival welcomes some of the world’s top jazz artists and provides a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. Another important music event in Positano is the Ravello Festival, which takes place in neighboring Ravello. Classical music will be played at the event, which takes place on the beautiful grounds of Villa Rufolo.
11. Visit the The Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)
If you’re looking for an adventurous excursion during your visit to Positano, be sure to add the Grotta Dello Smeraldo to your itinerary. This natural wonder is an emerald-colored cave located just a short boat ride away from Positano’s main beach.
Legend has it that the cave was discovered in 1932 by a local fisherman who was drawn to its luminous green waters. Today, visitors can take a guided tour through the cave’s narrow passages and marvel at the mesmerizing emerald hues that are caused by the reflection of sunlight filtering through the water.
Beyond its stunning beauty, the Grotta Dello Smeraldo also has a rich historical significance. It is said that the ancient Romans used the cave as a secret passage to transport goods between the towns along the Amalfi Coast. In fact, remnants of this ancient trade route can still be seen inside the cave today.
As one of the 16 things to do in Positano, a visit to the Grotta Dello Smeraldo is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this fascinating underwater cave and learn about its intriguing history.
Check out this activity:
Related article: Neptune’s Grotto: A Must-Visit Destination in Sardinia
12. Visit the Villa Rufolo
Visiting Villa Rufolo is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the town of Ravello, located on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. The villa is a stunning example of medieval architecture, with its impressive towers, courtyards, and gardens.
Built-in the 13th century, the villa was once the residence of the wealthy Rufolo family. Today, it is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms, each filled with historic artifacts and beautiful artwork. The villa’s most famous feature is its lush gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The gardens are divided into several sections, each with its own unique character. The Terrace of Infinity, one of the most popular spots in the garden, offers panoramic views of the coastline and the sea. The Moorish-style cloister garden, with its colorful flowers and intricate fountains, is another highlight of the villa’s gardens.
Villa Rufolo is also famous for its annual music festival, which takes place in the summer months. The Ravello Festival attracts musicians and music lovers from around the world, and the villa’s stunning gardens provide the perfect backdrop for these performances.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, visiting Villa Rufolo is a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Amalfi Coast. The villa’s gardens are an oasis of calm, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery, or simply sit and enjoy the stunning views.
13. Visit the Roman ruins
Positano is a town that is steeped in history and culture, and one of the top 16 things to do in Positano is to visit the Roman ruins. These ruins are located on the outskirts of the town and offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
The ruins date back to the ancient Roman era and were buried in ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The site offers visitors an incredible opportunity to experience what life was really like in ancient times. The ruins include a number of well-preserved structures, including an amphitheater, a marketplace, and a temple.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the ruins to learn more about their history and significance. The tour will take you through the different areas of the site and provide you with information about the various structures and their uses.
Aside from the historical significance of the ruins, they also offer breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding coastline. The entire cliffside town can be viewed from the ruins, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the town’s layout and architecture.
14. Take a day trip to Pompeii
A day trip to Pompeii is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Campania region of Italy. Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world.
The ancient city of Pompeii was destroyed and buried under ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the city and get a glimpse into what life was like during ancient Roman times.
The site is massive, covering an area of over 170 acres. Visitors can spend hours exploring the ruins, which include well-preserved houses, temples, public buildings, and even a Roman brothel.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Pompeii is the way that the city was preserved in time. The ash and pumice that buried the city also served to protect it from the elements, allowing archaeologists to uncover a wealth of artifacts and information about life in ancient Rome.
Visitors can take guided tours of the site to learn more about its history and significance. Some tours even offer the opportunity to see the plaster casts of the victims of the eruption, which provide a haunting reminder of the tragedy that occurred.
In addition to its historical significance, Pompeii is also a beautiful site to explore. The city is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.
Check out this activity:
15. Relax at a spa
Positano, with its dramatic cliffs, stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and glamorous vibe, is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. One of the best ways to unwind in Positano is by indulging in a spa treatment.
There are several spas located throughout Positano, each offering a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Here are a few of the top places to relax at a spa in Positano:
- Hotel Palazzo Murat Spa – This spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs, all of which are designed to help you relax and unwind.
- Le Sirenuse Spa – Located in the luxurious Le Sirenuse hotel, this spa offers a range of treatments inspired by the Mediterranean. From massages to facials to body treatments, you’ll find everything you need to feel pampered and rejuvenated.
- Casa Angelina Spa – This spa is located in the nearby town of Praiano, but it’s well worth the trip. The spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy, all of which are designed to help you relax and unwind.
- Positano Health Club – This spa is located in the heart of Positano and offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs. They also have a sauna and a Turkish bath, which is a great way to relax and detoxify.
- Beauty Center Positano – This spa is located on the main street of Positano and offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments. They also offer hair and nail services, so you can leave feeling completely refreshed and polished.
Top experiences in Positano
Where to stay
Booking.comConclusion
Positano is a lovely and quaint village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast with a lot to offer tourists. Positano has a lot to offer, from its beautiful beaches and architecture to its great cuisine and wine. Positano offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just resting on the beach.
