Key Facts About Positano, Italy

Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a sun-soaked, pastel-colored paradise. With its steep, winding streets, iconic beaches, and sweeping sea views, it’s one of Italy’s most photogenic and romantic destinations.

8/5/20252 min read

📍 Location

Region: Campania
Province: Salerno
Coastline: Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana)
Nearest City: Naples (approx. 60 km)
Coordinates: 40°37′N 14°29′E

🏞️ What Makes It Special
  • 🌈 Clifftop village of colorful stacked buildings

  • 🏖️ Famous for Spiaggia Grande, a pebbled beach with unforgettable views

  • 🍋 Known for limoncello, handmade sandals, and luxe boutiques

  • 🚤 Great base for boat trips to Capri, Amalfi, and Ravello

🌦️ Climate
  • Summer (Jun–Sep): Hot & sunny, avg. 25–30°C (77–86°F)

  • Spring/Fall (Apr–May, Oct): Mild, avg. 17–24°C (63–75°F)

  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Cooler & quieter, avg. 8–15°C (46–59°F)

  • Best Time to Visit: May–June or September for warm weather with fewer crowds

🌟 Top Attractions
  • Spiaggia Grande: The main beach with sunbeds, bars, and iconic cliff views

  • Fornillo Beach: A quieter alternative with a more local vibe

  • Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Known for its beautiful tiled dome and Black Madonna

  • Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei): Breathtaking hiking trail above Positano

  • Shopping in the Centro Storico: Boutiques offering linen clothing, leather sandals, ceramics, and limoncello

🏨 Where to Stay
  • Luxury: Le Sirenuse – iconic hotel with sea views and Michelin dining

  • Romantic: Hotel Marincanto – perfect for honeymooners

  • Charming Boutique: Casa Buonocore

  • Budget-Friendly: Hostel Brikette or small B&Bs higher up the hill

🍝 What to Eat
  • Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare: Fresh pasta with local seafood

  • Delizia al Limone: A zesty lemon cream dessert

  • Pizza Napoletana: Always a must in Campania

  • Limoncello: Positano’s signature citrus liqueur

  • Local wine & espresso: Best enjoyed with a sea view

🚗 How to Get There
  • From Naples:

    • Train to Sorrento, then bus or ferry to Positano

    • Private transfer or rental car via the scenic Amalfi Drive (SS163)

  • By Ferry (in summer): From Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi, or Capri

  • By Bus: SITA buses run from Sorrento and Amalfi—but expect hairpin turns!

🧠 Fun Facts
  • 🎨 Positano has inspired artists, writers, and filmmakers for decades

  • 🎬 It was featured in movies like Under the Tuscan Sun and Only You

  • 🕰️ Once a quiet fishing village, it became a trendy resort in the 1950s

  • 🛍️ Locals still craft custom leather sandals made to fit your feet

📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
  • View from Le Sirenuse balcony

  • Colorful umbrellas at Spiaggia Grande

  • Sunrise from Villa Treville cliffs

  • Steps of Via Cristoforo Colombo

  • Sunset aperitivo at Franco’s Bar

🎟️ Travel Tips
  • 👟 Wear comfortable shoes—Positano = stairs + hills!

  • ☀️ Book beach loungers early, especially in July & August

  • 🧳 Pack light: many accommodations require walking up/down steps

  • 🍋 Take home local limoncello or handmade ceramics

  • ⛴️ Try a sunset boat tour for epic coastal views

✨ Final Thoughts

Positano is more than a destination—it’s an experience. With every turn revealing a postcard-worthy view, every meal bursting with flavor, and every sunset lighting the sea on fire, this cliffside gem captures the soul of Italy’s southern coast.