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Need help planning a trip to Positano? You’ve come to the right place!
This stunning Amalfi Coast town is packed with unforgettable experiences – so many that it can be hard to decide what to do! That’s where I come in.
After exploring Positano and its surroundings many times, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best things to do. Whether you want to sail along the coast, explore ancient ruins, ride a Vespa, or take a hands-on cooking class, this list has something for everyone.
So if you’re ready to discover the must-do activities that will make your trip to Positano unforgettable, keep on reading!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE Positano experience was this private boat excursion to Capri! Capri is a can’t-miss destination while in Positano, and visiting on a private tour lets us avoid the crowds and have a luxury experience.
Things to do in Positano, Italy
1. Sail along the Amalfi Coast
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Sail along the Amalfi Coast, swim & snorkel, see the Furore fjord, explore the harbor town of Amalfi or Ravello
- Inclusions: Professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, one drink (soda or mineral water)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (read the 450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you want to experience the Amalfi Coast from a whole new perspective, this small-group boat tour is a must! I’ve explored this coastline by land and sea, and let me tell you – seeing it from the water is unbeatable.
The adventure starts in Positano, where you’ll hop aboard a comfortable boat with a small group (no crowded ferries here!). From there, you’ll cruise along the stunning coastline, passing colorful cliffside villages, hidden coves, and dramatic rock formations. The boat stops at either Amalfi or Ravello, giving you free time to explore the charming streets, visit local shops, or grab a refreshing granita.
One of my favorite parts? Swimming in the crystal-clear waters! The boat makes a few stops at gorgeous swim spots, giving you plenty of chances to jump in and cool off. And if you’re up for an extra adventure, you can opt to visit the famous Emerald Grotto (for an additional fee). We did it when we went and highly recommend it – the glowing green waters inside the cave are absolutely mesmerizing!
With its breathtaking views and relaxed pace, this boat tour is hands down one of the best ways to experience the Amalfi Coast while in Positano. If you don’t believe me, just check out the hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews!
Book this popular tour here before it sells out!
2. See Capri on a private boat tour
- Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Visit the island of Capri on a private boat tour, go swimming and snorkeling, explore hidden grottoes, see Roman ruins
- Inclusions: Private boat, snacks, water, soda/pop, snorkeling equipment, towels, WIFI on board
- Rating: 5 stars (read the 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check the price here!
If you’re staying in Positano and want to explore Capri without the crowds, this private boat tour is the way to go! With space for up to six people, it’s completely customizable – so you can create the perfect day on the water.
The adventure begins as you set off from the Amalfi Coast, cruising across the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea toward Capri. Along the way, you’ll pass breathtaking coastal cliffs, hidden sea caves, and the famous Faraglioni rock formations. Our Captain even showed us some ancient Roman ruins scattered along the coastline that are remnants from Emperor Tiberius’ time – how cool is that?
One of my favorite parts was stopping at the White and Green Grottos to swim in the most incredible turquoise water I’ve ever seen. Our captain timed it perfectly to miss the crowds so we were the only ones there. It felt like our own personal slice of paradise!
The best part? This wasn’t a rushed, crowded tour. Since it was private, we got to decide how long we wanted to stay at each stop and fully soak in the beauty of Capri’s coastline at our own pace. If you want a truly unforgettable day on the water, this is the way to do it!
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
3. Explore the ancient city of Pompeii
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Time: 8 am or 11 am
- Highlights: Guided tour of the UNESCO-listed site Pompeii, learn about life before Mt. Vesuvius eruption, see the Forum, thermal baths, and basilica
- Inclusions: Archaeological guide, skip-the-line entry ticket, transportation
- Rating: 4.9 stars (read the 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check the price here!
If you’re staying in Positano and not making a trip to Pompeii, you’re seriously missing out. I did this half-day tour when I was there last, and let me tell you – it’s one of the most fascinating and surreal experiences you can have in Italy!
Pompeii is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world – time seemed to stop when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, burying it under layers of ash. Walking through it feels like stepping straight into history. You’ll see Roman bathhouses, temples, villas, and even graffiti on the walls – all perfectly preserved from nearly 2,000 years ago. It’s eerie yet incredible!
Having an expert archeological guide made all the difference. Instead of just wandering through ruins, they brought the city to life with crazy stories about gladiators, emperors, and the people who once lived here.
One of the most haunting moments was seeing the plaster casts of the victims, forever frozen in their final moments. It’s chilling but also a powerful reminder of just how advanced – and vulnerable – this civilization was.
The tour includes round-trip transport from Positano, so there’s no hassle with trains or buses. Just sit back, take in the views along the coast, and get ready for a deep dive into ancient Roman life. There’s a reason it has so many great reviews – this is one history lesson you won’t forget!
Book this tour with over 100 5-star reviews here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
4. Drive along the Amalfi Coast on a Vespa
- Duration: 6.5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Ride along the Amalfi coast on the back of a vintage Vespa, visit Amalfi town, see the Furore Fjord, try local limoncello and lemon cake
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, private guide/driver, helmet
- Rating: 5 stars (read the 230+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
There isn’t a more classic Italian experience than cruising along the Amalfi Coast on a vintage Vespa. I recently took this private Vespa tour, and it felt like I was like starring in my own classic film!
My guide (and driver), Giuseppe, was fantastic – knowledgeable, friendly, and an absolute pro at navigating the winding coastal roads. With the ocean on one side and cliffside villages on the other, we zipped past traffic and stopped effortlessly at spots that tour buses could never reach.
Our first stop was Furore Fjord, a hidden gem with dramatic cliffs and serene waters. Many visitors miss it, but on a Vespa, we could easily pull over and soak it all in. From there, we cruised into Amalfi, parking right in the heart of town. I had time to wander the charming streets, visit the stunning cathedral, and treat myself to a local pastry.
One of the best parts? Stopping at a family-run shop to taste freshly made limoncello and a slice of lemon Delizia cake – it was delicious!
Between the breathtaking views, the thrill of the Vespa ride, and Giuseppe’s local insights, this tour was an absolute highlight of my trip. If you want to experience the Amalfi Coast like a true Italian – this is the way to do it!
Reserve your spot here and get FREE 24 hour cancellation!
5. Learn how to cook authentic Italian food
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am or 4 pm
- Highlights: Visit a local family-owned restaurant, learn to cook an authentic Italian meal (including homemade pasta!), enjoy wine as you cook
- Inclusions: All ingredients/materials, lunch or dinner, guide
- Rating: 5 stars (read the 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Italian food, so taking this cooking class in Praiano was something I couldn’t wait to do the last time I was in Italy! Located just 15 minutes from Positano, this charming town has a more relaxed vibe, and getting there is easy with a quick ferry or water taxi.
The class was hosted by Rocco and Carla, a wonderful husband-and-wife duo who made us feel like family from the moment we arrived. Their kitchen was surrounded by lemon groves and made the perfect setting to dive into authentic Amalfi cooking. We learned to make a variety of fresh pasta from scratch, with Carla sharing helpful tips passed down through generations.
For dessert, we made a citrusy, layered treat that perfectly captured the flavors of the region. After all the hands-on cooking, we sat down together to enjoy our meal, paired with a glass of wine. If you want to have even more wine (we don’t blame you!), you can upgrade to a full wine tasting, which includes 3 different types of homemade wine. We did this and highly recommend it!
Whether you want to brush up on your cooking skills or just experience the true flavors of the Amalfi Coast, I can’t recommend this class enough! And neither can the 300+ people who left it 5-star reviews!
Check availability and book this top-rated cooking class here!
6. Enjoy a private sunset cruise
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 6 pm
- Highlights: Watching the sunset on the Tyrrhenian Sea, sipping on prosecco, private tour with personalized touches, drinking homemade limoncello
- Inclusions: Boat cruise, beach towels, glass of prosecco, homemade limoncello, snacks, soft drinks and water, professional captain and crew
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 125+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sailing into the sunset on this private boat tour was pure magic – not to mention one of the most romantic experiences that we had in Positano!
As soon as we stepped onto our private boat, we knew that we were in for a special evening. Our friendly captain, Antonio, greeted us with a glass of Prosecco, which we sipped on as the boat glided away from the bustling shoreline.
We set off during golden hour when the light bathed the cliffs in a warm glow, but the real magic happened when the sun began to sink towards the horizon. The sky looked incredible, and the way the light reflected off the water was just breathtaking.
We even got another glass of prosecco to enjoy with the sunset! As we sailed along, our captain shared interesting stories about the Amalfi coast, pointed out hidden grottos, and even offered us some of his delicious homemade limoncello!
Then, as we cruised back towards Positano after dark, we loved seeing the town’s twinkling lights dotted along the shore. This whole experience was intimate, relaxing, and absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking for a romantic experience, this sunset cruise is the perfect way to make your loved one feel extra special!
Find out more and book this tour here, with FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Where to Stay in Positano, Italy
If you’re a little lost in trying to figure out the perfect place to stay in Positano, I’m here to help! The truth is – accommodations are expensive here, so be prepared to spend a good chunk of your travel budget. However, you’ll be getting a top-tier stay even at the cheapest of hotels! Here are my top three recommendations:
Luxury – $$$
Albergo Miramare Positano is a postcard worthy hotel fit for luxury travelers. It overlooks the Gulf of Salerno for impeccable views from your room’s terrace. They offer standard hotel rooms or suite style, and all have charming decor. The hotel is located just off of Positano’s main street, so you’re close to the top sights.
Prices start at €520 per night and can exceed €1,000 depending on room choice. Check prices and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Villa Rosa is a moderately priced hotel that has me swooning over it’s historic charm! It’s perched in the cliffside close to downtown Positano, so you’re close to the best restaurants, shops, and beaches. The decor is vintage and you can rooms with a sea view or city view, ranging from doubles, twins, or suites.
You must book a minimum of three nights and prices start at €340 per night. Check availability and book this hotel here on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Gresy Appartamento Suite is the most budget-friendly stay in the area, but it’s not lacking in quality! This one bedroom, one bathroom is an ideal home away from home. You can enjoy views of the mountains and the sea from the terrace or quickly get to Fornillo Beach in just 1 kilometer (0.6 mile).
This apartment is available for €212 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
For more options, check out all the hotels in Positano here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Positano is truly one of those bucket list destinations we only dreamed of visiting! After finally checking it off our list, we are already eager to get back to this stunning seaside town. Hopefully, after you experience these top five activities, you’ll feel the same way we do!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other travel blogs! We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next big trip!
3 Days in Rome – The Best Rome Itinerary
10 Best Things to do in Naples, Italy
How to Spend FIVE days on the Amalfi Coast, Italy: 5-Day Itinerary