If you’ve ever dreamt of taking the perfect getaway to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and I know you have, I absolutely recommend making Positano your home base during your stay. With its colorful cliffside homes, serene beaches, winding streets filled with boutiques and exquisite cuisine, Positano offers the ideal mix of relaxation and exploration. Based on personal experience, spending four days in Positano during my two-week vacation in Italy was the perfect amount of time. This itinerary will guide you through why I think you should spend four days staying in Positano, what to do while you’re there, and what you need to know before you head to the coastal gem.
How to get there?
Getting to Positano can be an adventure in itself, but with a bit of planning, the journey is part of the experience. If you’re flying into Italy, the nearest major airport is Naples International (Napoli Capodichino), which is about an hour and a half away. From there, you can take a private car, hire a taxi, or catch a shuttle to Positano. Alternatively, you can hop on a train from Naples to Sorrento and then take a scenic bus or ferry along the coast to reach Positano. If you’re coming from other Italian cities like Rome or Florence, the high-speed trains to Naples or Salerno are your best bet. From Salerno, a ferry offers a breathtaking way to arrive in Positano by sea, giving you those first postcard-worthy views of the coastline. Regardless of your starting point, Positano is easily accessible and well worth the trip.
My personal vacation experience in Italy began in Rome and was closely followed by the trek to Positano. Taking a high-speed train from Rome to Naples and having a hired private transfer awaiting us at the station was the perfect option for me, my sister, and my mom. We booked a private transfer through Eurolimo. I highly suggest choosing to splurge on this transportation choice if you have room in the budget to do so. Though a private transfer certainly tends to be more costly, I cannot express enough how worthwhile this expense was. During the ride from Naples to the front door of our hotel in Positano, our driver happily shared stories and the history of each city and town we passed, even stopping at a few of the most scenic points along the coast to take photos of us. We had the option to add a stop to tour Pompeii; however, we opted not to, as we wanted to maximize our time in Positano.
Where to stay?
When it comes to where to stay in Positano, the choices are as stunning as the views. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious cliffside hotel with panoramic vistas, a charming boutique stay tucked into the town’s winding streets, or a cozy Airbnb with a private terrace, Positano has it all. The town offers something for every budget, from splurge-worthy resorts to more affordable, yet equally charming, guesthouses. Having done my fair share of research leading up to the trip, I’m thrilled to share some of the places we highly considered staying and, more importantly, tell you ALL about the perfect hotel that we landed on and couldn’t have loved more.
Hotel Poseidon is where the timeless charm of Positano blends seamlessly with modern comfort and unparalleled hospitality. Perched high on the hillside, this boutique gem offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, inviting you to soak in the magic of the Mediterranean. With its terracotta-tiled floors, vibrant gardens, and a stunning terrace perfect for sunset cocktails, the hotel embodies the relaxed yet refined spirit of the region. You’ll find that everyone online, myself included, raves about the warm, attentive staff, who go above and beyond to make every stay memorable, from offering personalized recommendations to ensuring your every need is met with a smile. The spacious rooms, each offering unique views of the sea or the colorful town below, reflect the perfect balance of elegance and tranquility. I also must note that the included breakfast is the dreamiest spread you can imagine, with additional options for cooked items by a chef on the spot, including customized omelets and pancakes, as well as made-to-order coffee options. Whether you’re lounging by the pool overlooking the most breathtaking view your brain can summon a picture of, or dining at the renowned Il Tridente restaurant on the terrace of the hotel, Hotel Poseidon provides a truly unforgettable Positano experience. I would 100000% stay here again and again.
Other Accommodation Options:
While Hotel Poseidon completely stole my heart, I also spent hours researching other popular accommodations in Positano. Trust me, there’s no shortage of incredible options. If you’re someone who wants that “wow” factor every time you glance out the window, here are a few other highly-rated hotels that are favorites among travelers:
Luxury Hotel Recommendations:
Le Sirenuse – This is arguably the most iconic hotel in Positano. A luxurious five-star property located in the heart of town, Le Sirenuse offers impeccable service, stunning sea views, and an upscale atmosphere that attracts celebrities and honeymooners alike. Its Michelin-starred restaurant, La Sponda, is a destination in itself. Make note, the restaurant and hotel tend to book up MONTHS in advance, so prepare to book far out!
Il San Pietro di Positano – Tucked into the cliffs a little further from the main town, this exclusive retreat offers total serenity with private beach access, panoramic terraces, and an elevator carved into the rock that leads you directly to the sea. If you’re looking for world-class luxury, this is the place.
Villa Franca – A stylish boutique hotel known for its art-filled interiors, rooftop pool, and sweeping views. It’s on the higher end price-wise, but many travelers say the views from breakfast alone are worth the splurge.
Budget-Friendly & Boutique Options:
Don’t let Positano’s glitzy reputation fool you. You CAN still experience its charm on a more reasonable budget with these beautiful, highly-rated stays:
Casa Teresa – A quaint and welcoming guesthouse with a traditional Italian vibe. Located a short walk from the beach, Casa Teresa offers simple, clean rooms and a lovely terrace breakfast with a view, all at a much more affordable price point.
Hotel Savoia – Family-owned and full of charm, this mid-range option is located just above the main beach, making it incredibly convenient without the ultra-high prices. Rooms are bright, comfortable, and some offer balconies overlooking the town.
Villa Maria Antonietta – If you’re looking for something basic, clean, and budget-friendly with incredible views, this cozy B&B is a hidden gem. It’s located up one of Positano’s famous staircases (so be ready to climb), but the reward is well worth it.
Airbnbs – There are also dozens of wonderful Airbnbs in Positano, ranging from modest studios to cliffside villas with terraces. This can be a great option if you’re traveling with a group or prefer a more independent, local-style experience. Just be sure to book early, especially during high season, as the best ones go quickly!
Where to dine?
Positano’s dining scene is as diverse and beautiful as the town itself, offering everything from casual beachside bites to fine dining with panoramic views of the coast. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood straight from the Mediterranean, classic Italian pasta dishes, or something sweet like a traditional lemon dessert, Positano has it all. From trattorias tucked away in narrow streets to cliffside restaurants offering sunset views, there’s no shortage of unforgettable meals. Allow me to introduce three spots that made MY must-dine recommendation list.
La Tagliata Trattoria
No trip to Positano is complete without a meal at La Tagliata, a family-owned trattoria perched high above the town, offering insane views of the Amalfi Coast…no, REALLY you have to see for yourself. This charming spot is known for its warm hospitality and farm-to-table philosophy. My favorite part? There’s no menu. Each meal is a multi-course feast crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, including vegetables grown right on the family farm. Expect to indulge in an array of traditional Italian dishes, from homemade pasta to perfectly grilled meats, all served in generous portions. La Tagliata is the kind of place where you’ll experience true Italian hospitality while enjoying, in my opinion, the most authentic and memorable meal in Positano. The restaurant also conveniently offered a shuttle service from our hotel, which was ideal because it is a bit of a drive away from the center of Positano, further up the mountain.
If there is one thing and place I won’t shut up about from my experience in Positano, it is La Tagliata. Please, I’m begging, make a reservation here and enjoy it for yourself.
Restaurant Bruno
Restaurant Bruno is a gem of Positano, offering a more intimate dining experience with stunning views of the town and the shimmering coastline. Known for its traditional Italian fare with a focus on fresh seafood, Restaurant Bruno is a favorite among both locals and visitors. Whether you’re enjoying their signature seafood risotto or savoring a plate of perfectly grilled fish, every dish is crafted with care and showcases the best of the Mediterranean. The relaxed, cozy atmosphere paired with friendly service makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner with unforgettable sunset views over the Amalfi Coast. The restaurant offers indoor seating as well, but the outdoor seating along the railing that overlooks Positano is the way to go.
Il Tridente
Il Tridente is a dining experience not to be missed during your stay in Positano. Located within the Hotel Poseidon, this elegant restaurant offers breathtaking views of the coastline, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal. Known for its modern take on traditional Italian cuisine, Il Tridente specializes in fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the flavors of the region. From homemade pastas to beautifully prepared seafood, each dish is a celebration of the Mediterranean. Pair your meal with a glass of local Falanghina wine, and you’ll understand why this spot is a favorite among both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re dining under the stars or enjoying a leisurely lunch on the terrace, Il Tridente is the perfect place to savor the magic of Positano.
A couple of things I indulged in while in Positano that you should enjoy as well:
Lemon Sorbet
In Positano, seeking out lemon sorbet is a must, as the town is famous for its locally grown lemons, which are known for their intense flavor and sweetness. One of the best places to try this refreshing treat is at Collina Positano Bakery, located right in the heart of town. Their lemon sorbet is served in a hollowed-out lemon, making it both a feast for the eyes and a burst of zesty flavor. Another fantastic spot is Café Positano, where you can enjoy a cup of sorbet while taking in sweeping views of the coast. For a quick and delightful refreshment during or after a day of exploring, these are the perfect places to experience Positano’s famed lemons in their most refreshing form.
Falanghina Wine
For wine lovers, Positano is the perfect place to sip on Falanghina, a crisp and aromatic white wine native to the Campania region. Known for its citrus and floral notes, Falanghina pairs perfectly with the fresh seafood and vibrant Mediterranean flavors you’ll find along the Amalfi Coast. One of the best places to enjoy this regional gem is at Ristorante La Sponda, located in the iconic Le Sirenuse Hotel. Here, you can savor a glass of Falanghina while surrounded by candlelight and breathtaking views of the sea. Another excellent spot is Il Tridente, where their extensive wine list features some of the best local varieties, including top-notch Falanghina, to enjoy alongside traditional Italian dishes. This wine’s refreshing character and connection to the region make it a must-try during your time in Positano.
Note: I now claim Falanghina as my favorite wine everywhere I go.
Non-negotiables for every Positano itinerary beyond the obvious of exploring the town:
Full Beach Day at a Beach Club
Although Positano DOES have a public beach, the experience that accompanies a beach club reservation is absolutely worthwhile and unmatched. My mom, sister, and I reserved day beds at Spiaggia Grande Beach Club and were seated right at the water’s edge on the main beach until the area closed late in the evening. We had access to cocktails and an exquisite food menu, and our orders were brought straight to the cozy day beds that we sunbathed atop in between swim and photo op breaks.
Day Trip to Capri (or another coastal town such as Amalfi or Praiano)
Accessibility along the Amalfi Coast and to nearby islands is too prominent not to take advantage of while staying in Positano. During our stay, we opted to take a day trip to Capri- a decision I do not regret in the slightest. I would like to express, however, that if you are seeking a smaller-town, more local feel, Capri might not be quite as ideal a day trip choice for you. I believe the island of Capri offers a memorable and FILLED day, but it’s certainly tourist-central. We spent much of our day enjoying a multi-hour boat tour around the island, taking our time at swim spots and freaking out over famous sights such as the Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni- and experience that made this particular day one of the most positively memorable days of my life. We used Gianni’s Boat, one of the most popular boat tour companies around the island (and surrounding islands), which offers various options and add-ons such as a bottle of champagne and a fruit platter for the ride. We did the 1/2 day private boat ride on a traditional wooden gozzo, and I would not change a thing about our experience.
If I were to have a second opportunity to day trip elsewhere, or if I were traveling solo, I would likely choose a town such as Praiano, which has a bit more of a local feel and authentic Italian immersion, though still maintains coastal charm.
The Perfect Four-Day Itinerary:
Without further ado, I give you an accurate hourly depiction of my four days in Positano. I swear to you I wouldn’t change a thing about it if I could do it all again.
DAY 1: Arrive + Unwind at Hotel Poseidon
2:30 PM – Arrive and check in at Hotel Poseidon
3:30 PM – Cocktails and pool relaxation on hotel terrace (until pool closes at 6:00 PM)
7:45 PM – Sunset and wine on terrace while awaiting dinner
8:30 PM – Dinner reservation at Il Tridente
Whether you’re arriving in Positano from another Italian city or flying into the country that day, your first afternoon should be all about settling in. Travel and jet lag tend to get the best of us, but lucky for you, Positano is just the place to unwind and slow down, and our stay at Hotel Poseidon was exactly what we needed. The check-in was easy, and the hotel instantly felt like a peaceful oasis nestled above the town. We headed straight to the hotel’s terrace pool for cocktails and views that quite literally stop you in your tracks. From our lounge chairs, we could see the colorful cliffside buildings, shimmering sea, and boats bobbing in the harbor- a true “we made it” moment.
After some time relaxing, we headed back to our room to freshen up and watch the sunset from the hotel terrace with a glass of wine in hand. That golden light spilling over the pastel buildings felt straight out of a movie. For dinner, we stayed on-site at Il Tridente, the hotel’s stunning restaurant that felt elevated yet relaxed, with twinkling lights, great service, and standout food. It was the perfect low-effort, high-reward way to kick off our time in Positano.
DAY 2: A Day of Sun, Sea, and Farm to Table Food
9:30 AM – Breakfast on hotel terrace
11:30 AM – Lounge all day at Spiaggia Grande Beach Club
7:05 PM – Free hotel shuttle to La Tagliata
8:00 PM – Dinner reservation at La Tagliata
We started the day slowly with breakfast on the hotel terrace- cappuccinos, fresh pastries, and panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast never get old. After breakfast, we made our way down the hill (a decent walk, so wear comfortable shoes) to Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. We had reserved chairs at one of the beach clubs, which gave us prime access to swimming, sunbathing, and ordering Aperol spritzes to our loungers. The water was refreshing, and the atmosphere was lively but never overwhelming.
After a full day in the sun, we returned to the hotel to shower and change before catching the free shuttle to La Tagliata, a beloved family-run restaurant high in the mountains above town. The views alone are worth the ride, and the food? Let’s just say we barely made a dent in the seemingly endless parade of house-made antipasti, pastas, meats, and desserts.
DAY 3: Boutique Browsing + Cliffside Dining
9:30 AM – Breakfast on hotel terrace
10:30 AM – Shopping and wandering through Positano
2:30 PM – Lemon sorbet snack break + more wandering
6:45 PM – Sunset photos, then dinner at Restaurant Bruno
This day was all about exploring. After another leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we walked through the charming, narrow streets of Positano, stopping into small boutiques and artisan shops. From handmade ceramics to linen clothing and woven bags, the winding streets held shops with everything you could ever hope to find. It’s easy to lose track of time while browsing and stopping into spots like the city’s primary church, Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, so I recommend giving yourself a full day just to experience all the town has to offer. We made our way down to the beach again, where we rewarded ourselves with a refreshing lemon sorbet, served inside an actual frozen lemon, which quickly became a highlight.
That evening, we dined at Restaurant Bruno, which is perched along the cliffside just a short walk from Hotel Poseidon. We lucked out without a reservation and had just enough time to take photos at sunset and be seated before the dinner crowd arrived. The views at sunset were absolutely stunning, and the food was rustic and delicious- traditional Italian done right. It’s the kind of spot that feels authentic and a bit tucked away despite its location. We lingered long after the plates were cleared, soaking in the glow of our last full night in town.
DAY 4: Day Trip to Capri
9:00 AM – Ferry from Positano to Capri
10:00 AM – Arrive in Capri; taxi to Anacapri
11:00 AM – Chairlift ride up to Monte Solaro for panoramic views
11:45 AM – Ride chairlift down and snack in Anacapri plaza
12:15 PM – Shop and get custom sandals at Le Sandalo
1:00 PM – Taxi to Capri town to explore luxury shops and scenic overlooks
2:30 PM – Gianni’s Boat Tour from Capri marina
6:30 PM – Return to marina and ferry back to Positano
8:00 PM – Sunset pizza picnic on the beach
For our last full day on the coast, we took a day trip to Capri, which was an absolute dream. We caught the morning ferry from Positano and arrived just an hour later. From the port, we hopped in a classic open-air Capri taxi and made our way straight up to Anacapri, the more relaxed side of the island. Our first stop was the chairlift to Monte Solaro, which offered jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of the entire island and the surrounding sea. In my opinion, this chairlift was a top highlight of the day trip that I think you’d be mistaken to miss out on.
After descending, we grabbed a snack in the charming Anacapri square, then stopped at Le Sandalo to have custom sandals made- a practical and high-quality souvenir. We then made our way down to Capri town to admire its designer shops and polished energy before heading to the marina for a private boat tour with Gianni’s Boats. We did the 4-hour half-day tour from 2 PM-6 PM, and added on a bottle of Prosecco and a fruit tray to enjoy throughout the day. Cruising around the island, passing through the Faraglioni rocks and stopping to swim in grottos, including the infamous tourist attraction, the Blue Grotto, was a true highlight. We returned just in time to catch the last ferry back to Positano.
Instead of a sit-down dinner, we picked up to-go pizza (from a local spot near the marina) and brought it to the public beach for a laid-back picnic as the sun set behind the cliffs. A simple, beautiful way to end our stay.
DAY 5: Farewell Positano
6:00 AM – Private transfer to Naples train station
9:00 AM – Train to Florence for the next adventure
We said our final goodbyes to Positano just as the sun was rising. Our hotel arranged a private transfer through Eurolimo once again to the Naples train station, which made the early departure feel seamless and stress-free. As we wound along the quiet coastal roads, we watched the pastel sky lighten over the cliffs one last time. While it was hard to leave, we felt completely fulfilled by our time here and excited for the next stop on our Italian journey: Florence.
Every corner of Positano feels like a dream, from sun-drenched terraces to cliffside dinners and turquoise boat rides to Capri. Four days may not feel like enough, but I believe it’s the perfect amount of time to slow down, savor the magic, and soak up everything this coastal gem has to offer. Whether you’re planning your first visit or simply dreaming from afar, I hope this itinerary helps you experience the very best of Positano.
Sincerely,
SB
