Positano, one of the most beautiful towns along the Amalfi Coast, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its colorful houses cascading down the cliffside, stunning sea views, and charming beaches, it’s no wonder that visitors are often left wondering where to stay in this picturesque Italian paradise. Whether you’re planning to visit Positano as part of your Amalfi Coast itinerary or making it your primary destination, choosing the right accommodation can make or break your experience.
Our pick of the best hotels in Positano 🏩
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Le Agavi
- ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Villa Franca
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Poseidon
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Dimora Fornillo
- 💸 Budget-Friendly: Casa Teresa
- 🏢 Apartment: Residence L'Incanto
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Pupetto
- 🏩 For Couples: Residence Villa Yiara
- 🌄 Best Views: Villa Magia
- 🏖️ Close to Beach: La Casa di Peppe Boutique Hotel
Quick Guide to the Best Areas in Positano 📃
- 🌊 For Iconic Views: Spiaggia Grande
- 👪 For Families: Fornillo Beach
- 🌄 For Stunning Views: Nocelle
1. Spiaggia Grande – Best Place to Stay in Positano for Main Beach Area and Vibrant Atmosphere 🌊
💖 Heartbeat: Spiaggia Grande is the beating heart of Positano, and it’s easy to see why. This main beach area is where the action happens, with its iconic views of the colorful cliffside houses and the bustling vibe that draws both locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking for a place that captures the essence of Positano, this is it.
🏖️ Pebble Beach: Spiaggia Grande isn’t your typical sandy beach; it’s covered in small, grey pebbles, which means you might want to bring some water shoes. The beach is lined with bright umbrellas and sunbeds, creating a picturesque scene that’s perfect for Instagram. Despite its popularity, the water here is incredibly clean, making it a great spot for a refreshing swim.
🏛️ Landmarks: One of the highlights of Spiaggia Grande is its proximity to some of Positano’s most famous landmarks:
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta: This iconic church with its colorful majolica-tiled dome is just a short walk from the beach.
- Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops: The streets around Spiaggia Grande are filled with charming shops selling everything from handmade sandals to local ceramics.
- Art Galleries: For a dose of culture, check out the nearby Miniaci Art Gallery.
🚢 Easy Access: Getting around from Spiaggia Grande is a breeze. The beach is centrally located, making it easy to explore Positano on foot. Plus, the ferry terminal is right next to the beach, offering convenient access to other Amalfi Coast destinations like Capri and Amalfi. If you prefer to stay on land, local SITA buses and taxis are readily available.
🍽️ Dining Spots: When it comes to dining, Spiaggia Grande has you covered. Here are some of our favorite spots:
- Chez Black: A beloved restaurant right on the beach, known for its seafood and lively atmosphere.
- Ristorante La Cambusa: Offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine with stunning sea views.
- Fly Lounge Bar: Perfect for a cocktail with a view, located above the famous Music on the Rocks nightclub.
Where to stay in Spiaggia Grande? 🏨
⭐ Best luxury hotels
- Hotel Le Agavi This luxury, five star hotel features a private beach accessible by funicular, an outdoor heated pool, and rooms with balconies or terraces offering stunning views of Positano. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant and convenient access to the center of Positano via a free shuttle.
- Villa Magia Nestled in the heart of Positano, this luxury hotel on the Amalfi offers elegant suites with private terraces, panoramic views of the town and sea, and personalized service. The property features a beautiful garden, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the best restaurants and attractions.
-
Hotel Poseidon This family-run 4-star hotel, once a Mediterranean villa, offers 48 unique rooms with stunning views of Positano and the Amalfi Coast. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, “Il Tridente” restaurant and cocktail bar on the terrace, and the charm of Vietri maiolica tiles in each room.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate Positano hotels
- Hotel Villa Franca Perched high above Positano, this luxury 5 star hotel boasts best views, a rooftop pool, and a wellness center. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining at the on-site restaurant and explore the town’s charming streets and shops just a short walk away.
- Residence Villa Yiara This adults-only accommodation offers romantic suites with private balconies overlooking the sea, perfect for a honeymoon or couples’ getaway. Located close to the beach and the center of Positano, it provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to local attractions.
- Villa Anfitrite Situated in a quiet area of Positano, this charming villa features spacious rooms with terraces offering panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with access to hiking trails and the town’s vibrant center.
🛏️ Best hostels
- Residence L'Incanto This cozy residence offers comfortable apartments with terraces overlooking the sea, perfect for families or groups. Situated a short drive from Positano, it provides a peaceful escape with easy access to the town’s attractions and beaches.
- Nonno Luigino Set in the hills above Positano, this agriturismo offers rustic rooms with balconies and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining and a tranquil atmosphere, just a short drive from the town’s center.
- Casa Pendola Located in the peaceful village of Agerola, this charming B&B offers cozy rooms with balconies and best Amalfi Coast views. It’s a great base for hiking the Path of the Gods and exploring the nearby towns of Positano and Amalfi.
2. Fornillo – Best Place to Stay in Positano for Families 👪
🌴 Peaceful Escape: Fornillo is the perfect spot if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Spiaggia Grande. This quieter neighborhood offers a more laid-back vibe, making it ideal for those who want to relax and unwind. The beach here is less crowded, providing a serene environment to soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.
🏖️ Serene Beach: Fornillo Beach is nestled between rocky cliffs and lush greenery. The beach is covered in small pebbles, so I recommend bringing water shoes for a more comfortable experience. It’s a great spot for a peaceful swim, and the water is incredibly clear. The beach is lined with a few charming beach bars, perfect for grabbing a refreshing drink.
🌟 Must-See: Fornillo is not just about the beach; there are several attractions worth exploring:
- Torre Trasita: This historic watchtower offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great spot for photography.
- Scenic Coastal Path: The walk from Spiaggia Grande to Fornillo along Via Positanesi d’America is a treat in itself, offering breathtaking views of the sea and dramatic rock formations.
- Local Artisan Shops: The area around Fornillo is dotted with small shops selling handmade crafts and local products.
🚶♂️ Easy Walk: Fornillo is just a 10-15 minute walk from Spiaggia Grande along a scenic coastal path. The walk is relatively flat and offers beautiful views, making it a pleasant journey. If you’re staying higher up the cliff, you can take the local bus to Piazza dei Mulini and then walk down to the beach.
🍽️ Dining Spots: Fornillo has some fantastic dining options that are worth checking out:
- Da Ferdinando: A cozy beach bar offering delicious seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Lo Guarracino: Known for its fresh seafood and stunning views, this restaurant is a must-visit.
- Ristorante Pupetto: Located right on the beach, this spot offers a great selection of Mediterranean dishes.
Where to stay in Fornillo? 🏨
⭐ Best hotels on the Amalfi Coast in Fornillo
- La Casa di Peppe Boutique Hotel This charming boutique hotel is set in a historic villa with stunning sea views, private terraces, and a beautiful botanical garden, just a short walk from Fornillo Beach.
- Villa Briganti Seaview Terrace Featuring a private terrace with breathtaking sea views, this accommodation is close to Fornillo Beach and offers a delicious continental breakfast, perfect for a relaxing stay.
- Villa Francesco Luxury Suites Located in the serene Fornillo area, this luxury accommodation boasts gardens with lemon and orange trees, and suites with sea-view terraces for a tranquil retreat.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Hotel Pupetto Situated directly on Fornillo Beach, this hotel offers panoramic rooms, a seafood restaurant, and easy beach access, making it ideal for beach lovers.
- Casa Teresa Located on Via Lepanto, Casa Teresa offers various room configurations and discounts, providing a cozy and convenient stay in Positano.
- Dimora Fornillo This 3 star hotel, dating back to 1800, features en-suite rooms and a charming atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a historical touch.
3. Nocelle – Where to Stay in Positano for Stunning Views 🌄
🏔️ Mountain Retreat: Perched high above Positano at about 440 meters, Nocelle offers a peaceful escape from the bustling coastal towns on the Amalfi Coast below. This tiny hamlet is the oldest and highest village in Positano, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramas of the Amalfi Coast.
👀 Panoramic Paradise: Nocelle is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and unparalleled views. The village’s elevated position offers a cooler climate, perfect for escaping the summer heat. It’s an ideal base for nature lovers and hikers, with its proximity to numerous trails in the Lattari Mountains.
🥾 Hiker’s Haven: Nocelle is famous for being the starting (or ending) point of the renowned Path of the Gods trail. Other noteworthy attractions include:
- The scenic 1700-step staircase leading down to Positano
- The charming village square with its small church
- Stunning viewpoints overlooking the coastline and Mediterranean Sea
🚌 Mountain Access: While Nocelle is more secluded, it’s not inaccessible:
- Regular bus service connects Nocelle to Positano (check the Mobility Amalfi Coast Bus schedule)
- Taxis are available, taking about 12 minutes from Positano
- For the adventurous, a steep but rewarding walk up from Positano is possible
🍽️ Dining with a View: Despite its small size, Nocelle offers some fantastic dining options:
- Ristorante Santa Croce: Known for its fresh seafood and stunning vistas
- Rifugio Dei Mele: A cozy spot perfect for a meal after hiking
- La Serra: Offers delicious local cuisine with panoramic views
FAQs about Trips to Positano ❔
What part of Positano to stay in?
The central area of Positano, near the beach and main shopping streets like Via Cristoforo Colombo and Via dei Mulini, is ideal for first-time visitors. For a more luxurious experience, consider staying in hotels like Le Sirenuse or Il San Pietro di Positano, which offer stunning views and high-end amenities.
Is it better to stay in Positano or Amalfi?
Positano is better for those seeking a romantic atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and iconic cliffside views, while Amalfi is more suitable for families, history enthusiasts, and those preferring a flatter, more walkable town. Amalfi tends to be slightly more affordable and less crowded than Positano, making it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a quieter experience.
How many days in Positano is enough?
Three days in Positano is generally sufficient for first-time visitors to experience the town’s main attractions, beaches, and surrounding areas. This duration allows time for hiking the Path of the Gods, exploring the town’s shops and restaurants, and taking a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast.
Is Positano a walkable city?
Positano is walkable, but it’s characterized by steep streets and numerous stairs, which can be challenging for some visitors. The central area is compact and best explored on foot, allowing you to discover charming shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints along the way.
What is the easiest way to get around Positano?
Walking is the primary mode of transportation within Positano, as the town’s narrow streets and stairs are not suitable for cars. For longer distances or to reach nearby towns, options include local SITA buses, taxis, or private car services, while boat tours and ferries are excellent for exploring the coastline.
