Le Sirenuse

If you're planning a trip to Positano, the first big decision is usually: Should I stay at Il San Pietro or Le Sirenuse? I’ve stayed at both, and here’s the honest comparison. The View: San Pietro is the King Il San Pietro undeniably offers the best view I've ever seen from a hotel – better than the famous Belmond Caruso in Ravello, better than the Four Seasons in Taormina, and even better than the legendary Belmond Splendido in Portofino. It’s simply unbeatable: wide, panoramic, and jaw-dropping from every angle. If you're after the ultimate vista, this is it. A perfect 10/10. Le Sirenuse also offers a spectacular view – I'd give it a strong 8.5/10 – but the atmosphere and setting more than make up for the slight difference. And yes, you can absolutely take amazing photos at Sirenuse as well – the backdrop of Positano’s colorful buildings and the sea is stunning, especially at sunset or at night when the whole town is lit up. Once you’re there, you honestly forget that San Pietro even had a visual advantage. Beach Access One real highlight of Il San Pietro is its private beach. It’s set on the rocks, but there’s elevator access straight from the hotel down to the water, which is a really nice touch. It’s not a typical sandy beach, but the setup is elegant and peaceful, and being able to swim in the sea from your hotel is definitely a plus. Le Sirenuse doesn’t have its own beach, but it’s a short walk to Positano’s main beach – and the trade-off is more than worth it when you factor in the location and vibe. Location & Convenience This is where Sirenuse clearly wins. It's located right in the heart of Positano, so everything – restaurants, shops – is just a short walk away. San Pietro, while stunning, is outside of town and requires a drive or shuttle to get anywhere. Atmosphere & Vibe Le Sirenuse just has that something special. It’s chic without being stiff, elegant yet warm, luxurious but still fun. The ambiance is unmatched. In the evenings, there’s a lively, classy bar scene with great music – think Queen, Italian classics, and iconic throwbacks mixed by a top-tier DJ. The whole vibe is relaxed and welcoming. You can enjoy a drink, have a great conversation, and yes – even light up a cigarette if you like. It’s just that kind of place where people are enjoying life. At San Pietro, the atmosphere is a lot more subdued. After 10:30 PM, the hotel is practically asleep – not a single person in the bar, and total silence throughout. Great if you want complete calm, but a bit dull if you’re hoping for a little evening energy. Food & Service The food at Sirenuse is excellent, with several options for dining and cocktails. The service is top-notch – attentive and warm. The owner himself often walks around, checking in with guests, which adds a very personal, authentic touch. To be fair, both San Pietro and Sirenuse have beautifully designed rooms and very professional staff. You won’t be disappointed at either in terms of comfort or service. The Perfect Way to Do It If you want the full Positano experience, here’s the ideal plan: spend three days in town – start with one night at Il San Pietro for the view, then move to Le Sirenuse for two nights to really soak in the atmosphere, enjoy the town, and live the magic. You’ll get the best of both worlds. Final Verdict Both hotels are outstanding, but Le Sirenuse is simply more enjoyable. It’s more fun, more convenient, and has an unbeatable vibe. It’s the kind of place where you want to stay for several nights, not just pass through. San Pietro is great for a one-night stay and a few epic photos, but it feels more like a luxury B&B with a killer view. Le Sirenuse offers not just views and comfort, but a full experience – the energy of Positano, incredible atmosphere, and a place where unforgettable memories are made. For me, Le Sirenuse is a flawless hotel. Truly world-class.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience That Exceeds Every Dream Where do I even begin? This hotel didn’t just meet my expectations – it transported me to another world entirely! From the moment I arrived, I knew I was somewhere truly extraordinary. The Views That Take Your Breath Away The iconic dome view that graces every Positano postcard? It was RIGHT THERE from my private bathtub, my deck, my room – everywhere I looked! Those glossy travel books could never capture the magic of waking up to this vista every morning. And at night? Pure poetry in motion. The dome illuminated against the starlit sky was so breathtaking I found myself speechless (and that’s saying something!). Service That Reads Your Mind The staff here aren’t just attentive – they’re absolutely TELEPATHIC! A lovely lady packed and unpacked my suitcases with such care, you’d think she was handling precious family heirlooms. But the moment that left me completely stunned: I was lounging by the pool (more on that masterpiece later), and they thoughtfully provided an umbrella for shade. My feet were barely peeking out into the sun, and before I could even think about it, another umbrella appeared like magic! WHO DOES THAT?! This level of anticipation and care is beyond five-star – it’s cosmic! Breakfast Fit for the Gods The breakfast spread was nothing short of exquisite – every bite was a celebration of Italian perfection. Sitting on that divine terrace, overlooking the azure ocean and the enchanting coastline below, I felt like I was dining in paradise itself. A Pool That Defies Description The swimming pool was absolutely BREATHTAKING! Crystal clear waters with views that make you forget you’re on planet Earth. It’s not just a pool – it’s a floating piece of heaven suspended above the Mediterranean. Living in a Curated Dream This isn’t just a hotel – it’s a living, breathing work of art! Antiques and treasures grace every corner, making it feel like the world’s most luxurious museum where you happen to sleep. It’s simultaneously a resort, a fun house, and a cultural experience all rolled into one magnificent package. The Bottom Line If you’re looking for just a place to stay, look elsewhere. But if you want to experience pure magic, unparalleled beauty, and service that will spoil you for every other hotel forever – THIS IS YOUR PLACE! I can’t imagine wanting anything more perfect than this slice of Italian paradise. Would I return? In a heartbeat – and I’m already planning my next visit! Rating: 5/5 stars (If I could give it 10 stars, I absolutely would!) Trust me, your soul will thank you for this experience.

We walked into this hotel and were treated with smiles from each of the 3 people working at their desk. They had our room ready and we were 2 hours early! The atmosphere was a warm and energized one from the start. We were walked to our room and all was explained about the hotel charm and activities. In the room was a bottle of Champaigne and strawberries with a nice note. Our room was over the top! We had a balcony overlooking the pool and the Amalfi Coast. Walking to breakfast and into their out door restaurant overlooking the Amalfi Coast was also spectacular! The options at this break fast was the best we have had anywhere. There was a buffet with fresh fruit, cereals, cheeses, salmon, ham, every kind of meat imaginable and delicious cakes and pastries. If that wasn’t enough you could also order off the menu. The poached eggs were exceptional! In our package, this was all included. Could we be more overwhelmed? Yes! The spa and gym were perfect for each one of us. I chose the gym. Another thing, besides the extremely helpful staff, we liked the location of the hotel. You felt you were in a quiet place in the hotel with great service and beauty. Nevertheless, you could step right out the door and be ready to shop, eat and enjoy the beach if you wish. We recommend this hotel highly!

If you want to stay in the middle of bustling Positano, this is your oasis to take breaths. From the moment you duck in from the crowds, everything is calm, organized, luxurious. And don't be misled by its reputation as a haunt of the glamorous or the sight of bouncers at the door--the staff are down-to-earth and friendly, and all everyone wants to do is give you a warm and relaxing welcome. Of course prices are high; everyone wants to get in.