This colorful enclave in the hills is a maze of narrow streets and gardens renowned for its craftsmanship and beautiful facades.
Positano is a collection of pastel colored houses clinging to the slopes of a deep ravine that leads down to the Mediterranean. The picturesque spot is set amidst gardens of oranges, lemons and bougainvillea.
Positano is primarily a pedestrianized zone and steep sets of stairs and passages between buildings replace streets. There is only one road through the town that allows vehicle traffic.
Meander through narrow passageways lined with stores selling locally made crafts and produce. For centuries Positano’s artisans have produced silk and linen clothing and accessories. Today their workshops continue to supply the resort’s high-end fashion boutiques that can be found on almost every street.
As you walk around observe the domes on the roofs of many of the houses. They are filled with sand that keeps buildings cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Head for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, one of Positano’s most prominent sights. It features a majolica-tiled dome and houses a 12th century icon of the Black Madonna.
Stretch out on the beach of Spiaggia Grande at the foot of the town. This is Positano’s main beach and it can get crowded in summer. You may find there’s more room on the quieter Fornillo Beach. This secluded cove is just beyond the watchtower, close to where the boats dock. It’s accessible by a stone staircase from the road above.
Rent a boat from the harbor and explore the coves and sea caves of Positano, or embark on a hiking trail. One of the most popular trails is the ‘Path of the Gods’, a picturesque mountain trail up to the village of Bomerano 2,083 feet (635 meters) above sea level. Walk up mountains, across a gorge, pass herds of sheep and goats, with dramatic views at every turn.
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Positano is by bus. There are frequent SITA bus services from Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi and other towns along the coast. In the spring and summer Positano is served by ferries and hydrofoil from Naples, Salerno, Amalfi and other harbors in the region.