Port Guide | Italy | Dive Deep
Positano
James Ireton | Editor
Published on 2025-02-19
Congratulations, you've just arrived at Positano, the vertical postcard masquerading as a town, where pastel houses cling to the cliffside with all the stubborn enthusiasm of a tipsy wedding guest holding onto the limoncello. Centuries ago, Positano was a sleepy fishing village; then John Steinbeck showed up in the 1950s, called it "a dream place," and ruined the secret forever. Today, you'll need sturdy shoes to tackle the town's gravity-defiant stairways and narrow alleyways-Positano is charmingly allergic to flat surfaces-and perhaps a dose of existential patience as overly ambitious Instagrammers block your view. First things first: abandon your residential cruise haven temporarily and dive right into local life; grab a sunset aperitivo at a seaside cafe, practice your tragic-but-endearing Italian on the waiter, then stroll hand-in-cone through town with some seriously good gelato. Also, keep an eye out for local festivals celebrating everything from saints to seafood-because nothing says Southern Italy like a parade in honor of fried squid. Welcome ashore, adventurers; Positano awaits.
Italy has 7 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Positano is famous for its stunning views, colorful buildings, and historic charm. Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and may want to wear comfortable shoes. It's advisable to check local events, as the town hosts numerous festivals throughout the warmer months.
Where do cruise ships dock in Positano?
Port Name Positano
Country Italy
Region Mediterranean
Ship Terminal N/A (Tender Port)
Port Type Tender Port
Accessibility Positano is a picturesque town built on cliffs overlooking the sea. Due to its steep terrain, access involves stairs and narrow pathways. The distance from the docking point to the city center varies but is typically a short walk.
What's the weather like in Positano?
Best Season to Visit Spring to early Fall (April to October)
Climate Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Peak tourist season is during summer months. Expect crowded conditions and higher prices. Mild rain is possible in late Fall.
Temperature Range 65F to 80F (18C to 27C)
High Temp 89F
Low Temp 39F
Average Temp 63F
What do I need to know about Positano?
Language Italian
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population Approximately 4,000
Timezone Central European Time (CET)
How do I get around Positano?
Limited public transportation options; mainly walking. Taxis and private shuttles are available.
What are The Best Things to do in Positano?
Discover what you should do while you're in Positano.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Path of the Gods Hike
N/A
Spectacular cliffside hiking path offering stunning coastline views from high above.
Distance from Terminal: 6.2 miles
Kayaking around Arienzo Beach
N/A
Rent a kayak to explore secluded coves and hidden beaches accessible only from the sea.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Rent a Vintage Vespa
Via Fornillo 30, Positano
Rent iconic Vespas for thrilling scenic rides along the picturesque Amalfi Coast roads.
Distance from Terminal: 0.9 miles
Sunrise Yoga on Positano Beach
Spiaggia Grande, Positano
Enjoy calming yoga sessions at sunrise on one of Italy's most iconic beaches.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Shopping for Custom-Made Positano Sandals
Via Regina Giovanna 19, Positano
Get personalized handcrafted sandals unique to Positano traditions.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Eat Lemon Sorbet from Fresh Amalfi Lemons
Viale Pasitea 318, Positano
Taste authentic sorbet served in fresh lemons grown along the Amalfi coast.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Fiordo di Furore Skinny Dip Challenge
N/A
Hidden inlet known for scenic beauty-a local spot for adventurous travelers diving into crystalline waters.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Cooking Class Using Amalfi Citrus
Via Pasitea 242, Positano
Cook delicious Italian dishes featuring fresh local citrus typical of Amalfi coast.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards
Via Nastro Azzurro 10, Positano
Taste exquisite wines cultivated in unique terroirs along the rugged coast.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Positano Fashion and Ceramics Tour
Via Cristoforo Colombo 137, Positano
Discover unique Positano boutiques famous for handcrafted ceramics and summer fashion.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Villa Cimbrone Gardens Exploration
Via Santa Chiara 26, Ravello
Admire romantic gardens perched high above the shoreline, offering panoramic views.
Distance from Terminal: 14 miles
Paper Museum Visit in Amalfi
Via delle Cartiere 23, Amalfi
Learn about Amalfi's ancient paper-making traditions preserved here.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Attend Positano's Local Festival
Various locations, Positano
Celebrate alongside locals at Positano's evocative religious and cultural events.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Overnight Trips
Island of Capri Overnight Stay
Capri Island
Experience Capri's nighttime charm, beautiful caves, and luxury hospitality.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Stay at the Legendary Le Sirenuse Hotel
Via Cristoforo Colombo 30, Positano
Famous luxurious experience at one of the world's best hotels.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
A Little Extra
Private Yacht Amalfi Coast Cruise
Marina di Positano
Luxurious cruise along the picturesque Amalfi coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 0 miles
Seafood Feast by the Harbor
Via Marina Grande, Positano
Enjoy a fresh seafood meal right at Positano's picturesque marina.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Italy Regional Tip
Entering religious sites without appropriate attire. Entry denial or requested to leave premises due to failure to cover shoulders and knees.