Positano is one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy. Its colorful houses and cliffside setting give this little town the kind of Mediterranean beauty that can’t be found anywhere else.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect romantic spot for your honeymoon or just want to experience one of the Amalfi Coast’s most idyllic villages, there are plenty of things to do in Positano. Here are our top picks!
1. La Sireneuse Beach
One of the most beautiful vantage points in Positano is at La Sireneuse Beach (also known as Spiaggia Grande or Marina Grande). This cliffside spot is a great place to see the entire town from one viewpoint.
It’s a popular destination for tourists from nearby Naples and Sorrento. However, it can get a bit crowded during the high season. So if you’re looking for a quieter place to enjoy the view, head here early in the day or late in the evening when it’s less crowded.
The terrace at Le Sirenuse has become Insta-famous, but the hotel also has other amazing restaurants and bars that offer a romantic atmosphere to dine. Franco’s Bar, Aldo’s Cocktail Bar and Seafood Grill, and the Michelin-starred restaurant, La Sponda, are all fantastic places to relax and enjoy the views.
2. La Porta Beach
La Porta Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Positano. It is a great place to relax in the Italian sun and the azure waters make for stunning photos!
This beach is a popular choice among locals and tourists due to its convenient location and close proximity to the town center. There are beach clubs that rent towels and chairs, restaurants and a clean bathroom facility.
Despite being a less touristy beach than the other more well-known ones, it does get busy during peak season (so arriving early is essential). This tiny, hidden gem offers a more authentic Mediterranean beach experience with views of the rocky cliffs behind the beach and the infinite-looking sea.
The beach also has a number of amenities including toilets, showers and change rooms. It is an ideal choice if you don’t want to spend the time walking down to other beaches or you are looking for a more secluded beach.
3. Santa Maria Assunta
If there’s one place in Positano that encapsulates the town’s romance, it’s this church. It sits perched on the cliff side and is a contender for the most picture perfect setting in all of Italy.
The dome of the church is made from yellow, green and blue majolica tiles which evoke the colours of the sea. Inside the church, you’ll find a 13th-century Byzantine Black Madonna and Child on the main altar.
This iconic piece of art has an interesting backstory – according to local legend, the painting was stolen from Byzantium and transported by pirates sailing in nearby waters. When a storm hit, the sailors heard Mary on board crying out, “Posa, posa!” (put down!) This led to them becoming Christians, as they were saved from the storm.
It’s also worth a visit to see the beautiful 18th-century bell tower that stands separate from the church. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to catch a wedding taking place in the church as it is one of the most popular places to get married in southern Italy.
4. Grotta di Fornillo
The cliffside town of Positano is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. It has breathtaking views, world-class restaurants, and a charming atmosphere.
This cliffside village on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast is famous for its pebble beachfront and steep, narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes. Its Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta boasts a majolica-tiled dome and a 13th-century Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary.
Another top attraction for history lovers is the MAR Positano Villa Romana Museum. It’s conveniently located steps from Santa Maria Assunta in the village center and contains a wonderful collection of artifacts and stories from the past.
The Grotta di Fornillo is a charming neighborhood that’s ideal for families. It’s a great place to start your journey in Positano and it’s home to Fornillo Beach and a few rustic wineries. There are also plenty of activities available here, including pizza and tiramisu-making classes in a local’s home.