Like the two-piece bathing suit that originated here (a.k.a. the bikini), Positano is a city in two parts. In one, you have the hot, crowded coast and, in the other, the cool cliffs which cushion it on either side. The divided layout matches the cultural clash that seems to define this small town: literati like Jack Kerouac and Tennessee Williams famously celebrated the beauty here, and now countless tourists simply bundle it into their rounds along the Amalfi Coast. Though Positano's unique geography makes it harder to navigate than surrounding cities, hiking, tanning, shopping, or hitting the town after dark are equally feasible options in its diverse landscape. Just don't expect to do any of those activities in the solitude Kerouac might have enjoyed—Positano's history and beauty have cemented its status as one of the coast's most popular destinations.
Positano is best reached by blue SITA buses. There is no central bus station: Positano's many bus stops all sit on the elevated road above the coastal centro. From the stops, either walk 10-20min. down ...more
Though not huge, Positano is tricky to navigate. The centro sits nestled on the coast between two high cliffs but is not accessible by SITA buses—coming from other cities, you'll have to walk or take ...more
Expect anything from expensive four-star hotels to charming and cheap bed and breakfasts. The most affordable spots are located on the hill descending from the Chiesa Nuova SITA bus stop. Closer to the ...more
Positano's centro is full of elegant restaurants—or at least, restaurants disguising tourist-trappery with elegance. While it won't be hard to satisfy seafood cravings near the coast, head up the hill ...more
More than other cities along the Amalfi coast, Positano offers great outdoor opportunities ranging from lazing on the beach to sweating your way up the surrounding hills. After taking a stroll through ...more
Positano’s Art Festival includes fashion shows, art exhibitions, dance, and music concerts at different spots in the city (Apr.-Oct.; contact tourist office for more info). The swanky piano bar and disco ...more
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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