The Positano Travel Guide
What’s the most terrifying drive you can think of? Winding curves down a cliff side one lane road? How about being in a city bus? Now imagine that bus is so packed with people that at this point it's standing room only. Also did I mention that there’s traffic in both directions? So anytime the bus has a sharp curve the traffic in the opposite direction has to play a sort of dance of reverse and pull forward. Inching along the cliff edge road until the bus can pass followed immediately by a scooter, because this is Italy after all.
The reason why so many people would suffer through this hour long ordeal is simple: Positano. The drive, while stress inducing and white knuckled, is one of the most beautiful in the world and believe it or not the destination is even better. A seaside town that is set into the hillside ends in a small bay that draws millions of tourists every year.
Positano is the not so secret ‘hidden gem’ of the Amalfi coast. With a bigger beach than neighboring Amalfi, sun worshipers flock here during the summer months. Like most of Italy, sun beds will cost you. There is a free section though if you bring your own towel, but don’t expect any shade.
Winding paths up and down hills create a maze of foodie and shopper heaven. White linen dresses and jeweled sandals are big sellers here. If home decor is more your style check out one of the many hand painted pottery shops.
Seafood is on the menu, with fresh fish and shellfish brought in daily. Vegetarians will find plenty of options in the pizza and pasta varity but vegans will be hard pressed. Few options are given but you can always ask for something sans formaggio (without cheese). Also remember the closer you are to the water the more expensive the menu will be. For a good meal that won’t break the bank try Capriceei. You can still see the beach from one of their terraced decks while sipping an appertivo or glass of wine. They have a caprese pizza with buffalo cheese that is fantastic!
How to get there:
The most common way to get to Positano is by taking the circavasuviana from Naples central station (Garibaldi) to the end of the line in Sorrento. This takes around 1 hour 10 minutes.
Walk out of the Sorrento train station and go to the right. You’ll see a sign for the Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi bus. You can buy your ticket in the tabacco shop inside the station or at the small stand by the sign (if someone is there).
You need to buy your ticket before you get on the bus. Validate the ticket when you get on board.
The bus will stop at the top of Positano and you’ll have to walk down hill into town. The bus ride will take about an hour.
Note: For the best views sit on the right side of the bus.
You can also take the ferry from Sorrento, Amalfi or Salerno. To see the current ferry schedule check out positano.com.
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