Positano is easily accessible from Naples and Salerno, either by car or by public transport. The town offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to cosy guesthouses. Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the summer season when the town is most visited.
Positano has a rich history dating back to antiquity. According to legend, the town was founded by the divine Poseidon, god of the sea, in honour of his love for the nymph Pasitea. The first references to the town date back to Roman times.
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the city was an important commercial centre, but its fame began to decline during the 19th century, when many of its inhabitants emigrated to America in search of better conditions. Positano was rediscovered in the mid-20th century, when it became a popular destination for artists, writers and celebrities. Among the most famous is the American writer John Steinbeck, who wrote an article about Positano for Harper's Bazaar magazine in 1953. His description of the city as "a place that seems surreal until you get there, and even more surreal when you leave" gave the city international fame.
Positano is famous for its colourful houses, which are built into the steep hillside and look like cascades towards the turquoise sea. the narrow streets are filled with shops, cafes and restaurants offering traditional Italian cuisine and local produce.
In town, you'll find Spiaggia Grande, the town's main beach, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Via Fornillo is a smaller, quieter beach with beautiful views of the town.
Notable sights include the Church of Santa Maria Assunta with its iconic golden dome. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is home to the famous Byzantine painting of the Virgin Mary, known as the Black Madonna. Legend has it that the painting was brought by pirates who stole it from a Byzantine ship. When they tried to land at Positano during a storm, they heard a voice asking them to return the painting. As soon as they did, the storm stopped.
Positano is surrounded by nature, which is ideal for hikes and excursions. The area offers many trails with spectacular views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. One of the most famous routes is the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), which leads from Positano to the village of Nocelle and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Positano is also surrounded by beautiful sea caves, the most famous of which is La Grotta dello Smeraldo (The Emerald Cave). This cave is famous for its bright green waters and can be visited by boat or by lift from the coastal road.
The town is also rich in cultural events. Various festivals, concerts and art exhibitions are held during the summer months. Among the most important is Positano Premia la Danza, an international dance festival that attracts artists from all over the world.
Did you know?
- One of the local specialties is "Delizia al Limone", a lemon dessert that is refreshing and light. Lemons are abundantly grown in the area and the locals use them in many recipes.
- Local fishermen still use traditional wooden boats called 'gozzi'. These boats are often seen on the water and give the town an authentic touch.
