Best Things to Do in Positano

As mentioned, some of the best of Positano can be enjoyed in the little moments, like watching life go by at Piazza dei Mulini, the historic square. Due to the striking beauty of the area, Romans began settling here around 100 B.C., building their magnificent villas. But the massive Mount Vesuvius eruption of 79 AD destroyed all the Roman villas and other structures throughout the area. From the 15th to the 17th centuries, Positano was a wealthy market port. If only the square could talk, what fascinating stories it would have to tell. The restaurants here are housed in structures that were once fishermen’s quarters, and before that, shipyards that fueled the town’s mighty naval power. Grab an espresso and a sweet from the pastry cart. This is the perfect spot to sit back, indulge, and imagine days gone by while the locals and visitors meander about. This vibrant hub is a great place for people-watching.

Positano is every photographer’s, Instagrammer’s, and travel blogger’s dream. There are photo ops around nearly every corner, making it easy to spend an entire day just snapping. Simply roam the streets and discover all sorts of surprises. It’s almost impossible to take a bad photo here, but there are some vantage points you definitely won’t want to miss. One of the classics is Spiaggia Grande where you can capture the beach and the hills with precariously perched homes tumbling down. Take some right from the beach and then join a boat tour to capture a few from the water. The white-and-blue striped changing rooms on the main beach are perfect for a selfie. One of the best vantage points for capturing the town and the sea is from Franco’s Bar at La Sirenuse Hotel. Get there early, right when they open, as the seats along the railing that offer the best views go quickly.

Spiaggia Grande is fabulous, but it’s also very busy. If you’re looking to enjoy a more tranquil stretch and an escape from the crowds, head to Arienzo Beach. It can easily be reached by heading to the Positano pier next to Spiaggia Grande and taking a shuttle. Recognizable by the logo with a blue and yellow compass rose, they’re super convenient and free, departing every 30 minutes between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and returning from 3:45 p.m. until late in the afternoon. It is possible to access the beach via land, requiring a steep descent down a flight of some 300 steps, and back up again. If you don’t mind the challenge, the staircase will allow you to peek into some of the most magnificent villas on the Amalfi Coast. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find a small free area and private paid sections. The popular Arienzo Beach Club offers very tasty food and cocktails.

Positano is one of the world’s best places for sailing. You can’t really say you’ve seen the Amalfi Coast until you’ve seen it by sea, with the rugged coast and the colorful fishing villages spilling down the cliffside. It’s more affordable than you think, and you’ll able to truly savor those thousands of shades of green and turquoise waters, stopping whenever you’d like to swim in a hidden cove. Most of the boats available for rent in Positano don’t require a boating license, but you should have at least some experience at sea to take out a vessel without a skipper as the currents here can be a bit tricky. If you don’t, consider a boat tour instead. During the peak tourist season of July and August, boats are in high demand, so book as far in advance as possible. The rest of the year, a couple of days in advance is sufficient.

Leather sandals deserve their own section when it comes to things to do here. Southern Italy is world-renowned for its handmade Capri Positano sandals, made from genuine Italian leather that’s very high-quality, flexible, and comfortable. Super stylish, they can be worn with almost everything. You’ll see many stores offering them while strolling through town, and they’ll even be custom-made for you while you wait. Take your time, talking to the various proprietors and browsing the dozens of different styles. Many are family run, with the ancient tradition handed down through generations. The walls are typically covered with shoes from the floor to the ceiling, so it might take a while. You can choose the heel height and the design and color of the straps. After you’ve decided what you like, they’ll measure your foot for the perfect fit. It can take as little as an hour or up to a day to make them.

One of the most famous hikes in the Amalfi Coast region, The Path of the Gods will bring you above Positano on an approximately 5-mile journey leading through charming historic villages while following ancient mule routes. You’ll get a glimpse of the old ways of travel while enjoying some of the most jaw-dropping views in Italy, and a tranquil escape from the crowds. The sea views from high above are absolutely incredible. If you don’t relish a strenuous uphill climb, hike from the town of Bomerano to Nocelle, which is mostly downhill. Locals advise against hiking it during the peak summer months of July and August due to the searing heat. If you attempt it in late September or October, keep an eye on the weather as heavy rains can make it very muddy and there’s a risk of mudslides. The best time for the trek is in the spring, April or May.

Both Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii can easily be visited from Positano on a guided tour. You’ll get to hike the Gran Cone trail to the crater of the volcanic mountain and then head to Pompeii where history comes to life. An expert guide will bring you around the UNESCO-listed archaeological site where the ancient city was destroyed by the massive 79 AD volcanic eruption, blanketing it in ash which helped keep many features well preserved. You’ll see everything from an amphitheater, homes, and thermal baths to a bakery, brothels, and a meat and fish market as you learn about the stories behind it all. Look down and the tracks of ancient chariots used as the most popular form of transport are still visible in the streets. Entry fees are usually included, with skip-the-line admission tickets to avoid long lines, and lunch may be provided too, depending on the tour you choose.