Positano, with its breathtaking landscapes and timeless charm, is one of the gems of the Amalfi Coast. Located along the Campania coast, this small town overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea is famous for its picturesque beaches, pastel-colored houses that cling to the hill and winding streets that lead towards the sea.
Positano’s history dates back to Roman times, when the city thrived as a trading port. Over the centuries, its commercial importance diminished, but its natural beauty and evocative atmosphere attracted artists, writers and travelers from all over the world. Today, Positano is an internationally renowned tourist destination, loved for its unique mix of elegance, romance and authentic Mediterranean spirit.
One of the distinctive features of Positano are its colorful houses overlooking the sea. The facades painted pink, yellow, orange and blue create a kaleidoscopic panorama that stands out against the intense blue of the sea. Walking the narrow, steep streets of Positano is an unforgettable experience, with fashion shops, ceramic boutiques and local artisans adorning the streets, inviting visitors to explore and discover hidden treasures.
Beaches
Spiaggia Grande, the city’s main beach, is a lively and crowded place, where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas and enjoy the sun and crystal clear sea. There are also numerous restaurants and ice cream parlors overlooking the sea where you can relax and taste local specialties. I recommend tasting the lemon sorbet which is served directly inside the fruit.
Fornillo Beach, located just over the hill, offers a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, with rocky cliffs and turquoise waters. To reach it you need to follow a short path overlooking the coast which offers spectacular panoramas and views.
What to do in Positano?
One of the icons of Positano is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, located on the top of a panoramic staircase. The church, with its majolica dome and the majestic mosaic of the Assumption, is a symbol of devotion and beauty. Inside, you can admire ancient frescoes and precious reliquaries, witnesses of the religious and cultural importance of Positano.
Walking around the alleys of the city center is a unique experience. You can visit the numerous characteristic shops and take unforgettable photographs among the steep staircases and panoramic terraces.
Among the favorite activities of those who visit the Amalfi Coast there is certainly the walk along the Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the coast and sea. It is one of the most popular hikes in the area and will take you through spectacular and picturesque landscapes.
Located near Positano, the Emerald Grotto is a fascinating place to explore. Its emerald green waters and stalactites create a magical atmosphere.
There is also no shortage of opportunities for gourmets. The local cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and authenticity, with dishes based on fresh fish, local lemons and regional delicacies. The restaurants and trattorias of Positano offer an extraordinary culinary experience, where you can taste local specialties such as “scialatiella” (a fresh pasta) and “Sorrento lemons”, which give a unique flavor to the dishes.
How to get to Postitano?
Positano is located on the very famous Amalfi state road 163, one of the most beautiful roads in the world thanks to its breathtaking views. Despite its unique beauty, this road can represent a demanding and sometimes unnerving challenge for motorists due to the numerous hairpin bends, narrow lanes and high traffic (especially in the summer months). All this, combined with the difficulty in finding free parking and the very high costs of parking (you can pay up to 16 euros for an hour), makes Positano an unsuitable destination to be visited by car.
The best choice is undoubtedly to reach the town by public transport which, in addition to being cheaper, allows you to enjoy the journey in total relaxation. There are essentially two choices:
- It is possible to take a bus starting from Sorrento. The buses of the Sita Sud company stop in front of the Circumvesuviana railway station and the journey takes between 30 and 40 minutes. The costs are really very cheap as the ticket for one ride costs just €2.40 and can be purchased at tobacconists. It is also possible to depart from Salerno with an intermediate stop in Amalfi.
- If the shuttle bus allows you to enjoy the views of state road 163, another equally fascinating alternative is to reach Positano via ferries. Also in this case it is possible to leave from Sorrento, Salerno or Naples.
In conclusion, Positano is a dream destination that enchants visitors with its natural splendor and authentic Italian spirit. The romantic atmosphere, the colorful houses, the enchanting beaches and the delicious cuisine make Positano a magical and unforgettable place. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure or simply beauty, Positano will give you moments of pure wonder and leave you with memories that will last forever.