How to Spend 3 Days in Positano as First-Timers
We spent 3 days in Positano during our 10 day Italy vacation to celebrate our 10 year wedding anniversary and let’s just say, Positano did NOT disappoint! It’s hands down one of my favorite places we’ve ever visited, despite many saying it’s too touristy or overpriced. While peak season may bring higher crowds, there is still plenty to enjoy in this beautiful city.
As you begin planning your trip to Positano, my best advice is to book EARLY. We booked our hotel accommodations 8 months in advance, which allowed us to book at a lower rate. For dinner reservations, we booked 30-60 days in advance depending on the restaurant and what they allowed.
How to get to Positano?
The nearest airport to Positano is going to be Naples International Airport (NAP). From there I would recommend booking a taxi to ensure you get from point A to point B. There’s also an option to take a train to Sorrento and then getting a taxi from there, but it’s well worth it to book the taxi directly from Naples. We coordinated in advance and were able to communicate with our driver via WhatsApp. There are also group shuttles you can book if you’re looking to save some extra cash.
Where to stay in Positano?
There are many great hotels in the area, as well as, Airbnbs. We stayed at Hotel Poseidon, which is family owned, and could not have had a more perfect stay.
3 Days in Positano: An Itinerary for First-Timers
As a first-timer in Positano, it may seem intimidating, as it’s a vertical city, but as someone who’s not an avid walker, I managed very easily. If you’re visiting during peak summer when temperatures are very hot, be sure to drink plenty of water.
Day One: Explore
On day 1 of your 3 days in Positano as first-timers, it’s time to get a feel of the city and explore by foot. We arrived in Positano near lunchtime, so shortly after dropping off our luggage and checking in to our hotel, we headed to Lo Guarracino. This is one of many great restaurants in Positano, not to mention it offers stunning views, too.
Since Positano is mainly a walking city, it’s a great idea to walk around and explore on your first day. Many may complain about the stairs in Positano. While there are a lot of steps, there’s also an easier way to make your way through the city. There is still an incline, but the path is flat and much more doable.
For dinner, try Il Tridente, located at Hotel Poseidon. You’ll need to have a reservation so make sure to plan accordingly. They offer an array of extraordinary dishes and when the weather cooperates, there are some stunning outdoor patio views.
Day Two: Private Boat Tour
Your next day of your 3 days in Positano is sure to be an exciting one! I highly recommend doing a private boat tour to Capri or the Amalfi Coast. We did a full day, but you could opt to do a half day or perhaps just take the ferry to Capri for the day.
During our full day tour, we were able to see the famous blue grotto. The blue grotto does require an additional fee and you’ll need to have euros with you. It’s often busy, so you may have to wait, but I promise you, it’s very much worth the wait. There are several men in small boats who will take you inside the blue grotto, they’ll also heckle you for a tip.
We opted not to get off at Capri and instead enjoyed the sights. Our captain also took us to a village on the coast for lunch before cruising back towards Positano.
If you will be back in Positano for dinner, I highly recommend Rifugio dei Mele. Our hotel suggested it and we are so glad they did! Rifugio dei Mele is located outside of the city, but they do offer free shuttle service to and from your hotel. The views are absolutely breathtaking, but the food is equally magnificent. It was one of the best meals we had in Italy.
Day Three
There are a few things you could do on your third day in Positano. You could enjoy a cooking class at La Tagliata, rent a moped and explore other areas, spend a day at a private beach club, etc.
Since we visited Positano right before the season began, the beach clubs hadn’t quite opened yet. They typically open the first weekend of May–the main beach in Positano is still accessible though.
We opted to walk around, do some shopping, and take it easy. Positano was also having an unusually cooler month, so while the weather was still pleasant, it wasn’t warm enough to enjoy swimming or laying out in a swimsuit.
Grab lunch at the famous Chez Black; perfect for pizza and an Aperol Spritz and located near the beach.
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the sunset, try Franco’s Bar. Franco’s does not take reservations and operates as a first-come first-serve basis. We opted to enjoy Franco’s before dinner at Ristorante Bruno (which also has great sunset views).
Other Things to do in Positano
There are still other exciting things you could do while visiting Positano. If you enjoy hiking, the Path of the Gods would be a great option.
Outside of town, you could visit the ruins at Pompeii, as well as, the surrounding towns of Sorrento and Amalfi.
Regardless if what you choose to do during your time in Positano, Italy, you’re sure to fall in love with the city’s charm and culture.
Conclusion: 3 Day Positano Itinerary
From breathtaking views to extraordinary food, Positano is sure to leave a lasting impression on all those who decide to visit. Whether you bask in the sun rays on the beach or take a private boat tour, the Mediterranean is sure to dazzle. You’ll quickly realize why Positano has become one of my favorite places to visit.
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