My name’s Daniel Caspi – welcome to my travel guide on the best things to do in the beautiful Positano. I’m a passionate photographer, travel addict, advertising and marketing specialist and independent travel agent.
I was born and raised in Jerusalem, Israel. I’m 32 years old and married with two lovely daughters. My passion for photography was sparked in 2013 when I started shooting on a holiday. I had no professional training in photography and just began practicing with a small digital camera.
After a few more vacations, I realised that I had a knack for photography. I purchased my first professional camera – a Nikon D3200. This camera served me for five years. Today, I shoot with a full-frame mirrorless camera (Sony A7iii), a drone (DJi Mavic Pro) and action camera (GoPro HERO7).
Nothing makes me happier than travelling to beautiful destinations and capturing the world from a different angle. I guess everyone loves to travel but I’m really curious to discover new places and preferably as beautiful as possible. One of the most beautiful spots I visited recently was Positano.
Why Positano Should be on your Bucket List
Positano is one of the most beautiful places on earth in my opinion. I love the colors, beaches, architecture, atmosphere and food of this cliffside village. These are the main characteristics that make it special to me.
As a destination for a summer trip, you can find everything you are looking for in a summer holiday. Perfect beaches, great food like Italy is famous for and a one-of-a-kind village landscape that you won’t want to stop shooting. There are so many amazing things to do in Positano and the Amalfi Coast.
The whole area can be crowded during the peak of summer so it’s advisable to arrive at the start of summer or after the peak tourist months. This way you will be able to immerse yourself with locals rather than just with tourists. The people of Positano are super authentic and friendly.
Two of my Favourite Places to Shoot in Positano
Almost every point around the town will provide you with a beautiful photo. It’s simply one of the most colourful and photogenic places on earth. In my opinion, there are two main places that a photographer should not miss!
Firstly, capture the town from the sea. You can achieve this by cruising on a boat or by flying your drone. The second best spot is to head up the road that overlooks the whole area. I think my best photos are from these points of view because they emphasise the colour and architecture of Positano.
10 Best Things To Do in Positano
1. Take a Boat Ride from Positano to Marina di Praia
A boat ride from Positano to Marina di Praia is the best way to experience the view of Positano from the sea and also the amazing Marina di Praia. This beach is located between Paraiano and Conca dei Marini and is shaped as a natural fjord. I recommend a company called Bluestar Private Boat Tours.
2. Have Dinner at a Seaside Restaurant
There’s nothing better than sitting down at one of the seaside restaurants of Positano and enjoying the views. Ristorante Il Capitano, for example, is situated on top of a building and offers stunning views of the sea and the village to your left. Make sure you book in advance for this gorgeous spot!
3. Explore the many Beaches of Positano
Positano and the surrounding area is bursting with beaches just waiting to be explored. The main beach of Positano is Spiaggia Grande. It stretches 300 meters in front of the village and has a sunbed section as well as a free section where you can sunbathe and go swimming in the sea.
Outside of the village there are a range of beautiful beaches along the Amalfi Coast. You can visit Laurito which is a tiny beach nestled into rocky cliffs. Fornillo is another beauty just a short walk from Positano. Then, of course, you have to visit Fiordo di Furore located under a highway!
4. Enjoy a Sunset Cocktail at Franco’s Bar
Franco’s Bar is the best spot in Positano to sip on a couple of cocktails and watch the sunset. Enjoy stunning views over the sea and hillside village from the chic alfresco terrace with its gorgeous pearl-white tiles, luxurious lamps and lush plants. This is what living “La Dolce Vita” in Italy is all about.
5. Buy a Painting from the Painters on the Beach
Down on Spiaggia Grande you will come across painters who produce stunning pieces of art. This is the perfect souvenir to decorate your home or to gift to close friends and family. There are also many boutique art, craft and gallery shops which sell beautiful paintings and artwork.
6. Get Lost in the Charming Streets of Positano
One of the best things to do in Positano is to explore the narrow streets and hidden alleyways. This village is situated on a hillside so that means there are steps everywhere! Follow your nose and uncover gorgeous vignettes, cats roaming the streets and breathtaking views of the coastline.
7. Visit the Ceramic Showrooms and Factories
Positano is famous for its ceramic and pottery shops. Many of these showrooms and factories are local family-run businesses that are passed on from generation to generation. Places such as Ceramica Assunta offer stunning ceramics that will add warmth and beauty to your home.
8. Eat Ravioli and Pizza with a Glass of Wine
Ravioli and pizza are classic Italian dishes and there’s no better place to gorge on these foods than in Positano. Explore the narrow streets of the village and you will stumble upon many classic restaurants that serve delicious ravioli and pizza. Order a glass of Italian wine to match.
9. Support the Local Artisans of Positano
Artisans of all stripes and colours have long captured the essence of the Amalfi Coast. Their dedication to craftsmanship is quite inspiring. Whether its local painters, woodworkers, ceramic artists, fashion designers or jewelry makers – you will be spoilt for choice when shopping in Positano.
10. Marvel at the Sparkling Views of Positano
No matter where you choose to take in the views of Positano – be it at a rooftop restaurant, cocktail bar or from the beach – those classic vistas will stay with you forever. This village is popular for a reason and it’s those marvellous landscapes and seascapes that leave a lasting impression.
Best Places to Stay in Positano
Accommodation in Positano really depends on your budget. As you might have guessed, it’s quite an expensive and luxurious destination. One of the best hotels in the village is Hotel Villa Franca – a modern 5-star hotel sitting on the highest point of the town with spectacular views of the sea.
Another famous place is Le Sirenuse which is perfectly located a few minutes walk from the beaches and is considered one of the top luxury hotels on the Amalfi Coast. Casa Angelina in Praiano is also a beautiful boutique hotel to stay at. Of course, you can find cheaper options too.
Exploring More Villages along the Amalfi Coast
Positano is arguably the highlight of any trip to the Amalfi Coast but there are plenty more places to visit along the way. I would recommend heading out to Capri Island for at least two nights. This island is home to rugged coastal landscapes, upscale hotels and superb shopping areas.
Ravello is a hidden gem and is set on an enchanting mountaintop. I definitely recommend at least one night here. Atrani offers stunning beaches with a population of less than one thousand. Then there is Sorrento – a fantastic place to stay before or after visiting the Amalfi Coast.
What you Need to Know Before you Go
As I mentioned before, at the height of summer Positano is a crowded and busy place. I would recommend coming in the months before or after July and August if possible. It’s also advisable to book accommodation in advance in order to secure the best rooms and the cheapest prices.
Renting a car is the most comfortable way to explore the area. Although, there are quite a few narrow roads on the Amalfi Coast that can scare off inexperienced drivers. The Amalfi Coast is the perfect place for those who love driving around winding and narrow roads with views of the sea.
Try to bring as little equipment and luggage as possible. This will make it easier to walk around the steep steps of the town. You will have to carry your bags to hotels and cruises – so packing light will just make your life that much easier. Don’t forget to bring your camera and swimsuit!
I fell in love with Positano and there’s no doubt that you will too. I can’t wait to return one day to enjoy those special views, swim at the beaches and sip on a glass of wine amidst the romantic atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.
