Positano is the first town you reach on the Amalfi Coast when arriving from Naples, and it's about a 20-minute drive from the Sorrentine Peninsula and about 30 minutes from Capri by ferry. After Positano, the next towns are Praiano, Conca de' Marini, Amalfi, and the other villages along the coast.
You can reach Positano by bus from Sorrento or Amalfi (there are two stops: "La Sponda" and "Chiesa Nuova"). There are also ferries in the summer from Sorrento and Capri.
Positano is perfect for couples, with its romantic atmosphere and leisurely days on the beaches: Fornillo, Arienzo, Laurito, or Spiaggia Grande (also called Marina Grande). There are great cafés and restaurants and you can also take a boat tour to admire the Li Galli Islets, Capri, and the surrounding coastline. Keep in mind that Positano is a vertical town, with a number of steep staircases that are not accessible for those with limited mobility or small children.
Amalfi is flatter than Positano and set in the middle of the coastline. There is just one small beach, but there is a convenient boat service that will take you to a number of other nearby beaches that are only accessible by sea.
Ravello is set on the clifftop above the coastline and is famous for its stunning views from the terraces of its historic villas. The town is also home to a number of art and music festivals.
Maiori and Minori are better choices for families, as they are flat and have an easily-accessible beach.
Positano is a small village and you can see its sights easily in half a day. More than just a place to visit, Positano is more an experience. Stroll along Via Pasitea to admire the shops selling "pezze di Positano" (local resort wear in linen and silk) or relax on one of the terraces to admire the views over the colorful houses tumbling down the cliffside.
One of the most famous landmarks in Positano is the colorful majolica cupola of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which houses the Byzantine Madonna Nera that is the object of much devotion among locals. This historic icon was found on the beach after a violent storm and on that site, the church was built. You can also visit the ancient Roman domus next to the church, the recently excavated ruins of a seaside villa with frescos similar to those found in Pompeii. The Roman Archaeological Museum where the villa is located is open all year round for guided visits.
Be sure to take in the Saracen towers, ancient watchtowers that were built on strategic spots along the coast and were used to protect the locals from pirates. Positano is home to three of these: Torre Trasita, Torre di Sponda, and Torre di Fornillo.
From Positano, head up to Montepertuso and the hamlet of Nocelle to walk along the Path of the Gods to Agerola.
The easiest way to get from Positano to nearby towns and Capri is with the ferries and boats that set off from the small pier in Positano. Otherwise, there are Sita buses. We do not suggest driving due to the heavy traffic and limited parking. For couples, the most convenient way to get around is by scooter.
