Positano Italy

Positano

Positano Italy is a stunning cliffside village located on the Amalfi Coast. Certainly a top resort destination, it is truly a jewel and not to be missed. Indeed, you will fall in love with Positano!  Bougainvillea, vegetation and flowers cascade down buildings and balconies. Boutiques, galleries and eateries line the streets. It is a shoppers paradise. There is a array of amazing hotels and delicious restaurants. Positano is absolutely fabulous, dripping with charm, and there is something to do for everyone!

Positano, Italy

Picturesque Positano Italy is a magical and enchanted village known throughout the world. Celebrities arrive by land or by yacht in the  summer. It is built into a cliff and is also called the Vertical City. With this in mind, an unusual network of stairways enhance the town. There is only one street for vehicles. Hence, the rest of the village is pedestrian only. Getting around by foot will let you appreciate pastel-colored homes, flower filled terraces and endless steps carved out of the rock. There are narrow pedestrian alleys and, of course, steps that flow down to the busy harbor and beach.Positano Beaches

The beautiful beaches are the main event and a hub of activity. You will relax and swim in the sparkling blue Mediterranean. Then have a delicious lunch along the walkway. A perfect way to spend the day!

GETTING AROUND POSITANO ITALY

Via dei Mulini is the main road through town that leads down to the beach. The center of town begins at Piazza dei Mulino, which is where all vehicle traffic ends. After that, Via dei Mulini is pedestrian only.  It is a pleasure to stroll and browse in all the art galleries, boutiques and various shops. Try to stop in at Sapori e Porfumi di Positano. The fragrance of the candles and perfumes are fabulous! If you’re lucky to have a chat with the ‘Lemon Lady’, you will find that she is an amazing entrepreneur and spirit! Of course, you will also find an abundance of restaurants and cafes.Positano Shopping

You can reach every corner of this beautiful area without climbing countless steps. The local bus service is easily accessible. Bus stops are indicated with the sign Flavio Gioia and the orange busses have three routes: Interno Positano , which departs every 30 minutes from Piazza dei Mulini which tours around town. Montepertuso Nocelle departs every hour and goes to the higher communities. And lastly, Praiano-Positano, which brings you to the nearby town of Praiano. Furthermore, if you need information on getting here from Naples, read my Naples to Positano Guide.

Those charming steps…..Positano Italy

A few steps from the beach, you will find the church of Santa Maria Assunta. It features a majolica-tiled dome and a 13th-century Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary. Legend says that in the 12th century AD, a ship carrying this same icon came from the sea during a huge storm. The sailors all heard a voice saying, “Posa Posa” which means “leave me here”. Thus the name Positano.  Moreover, this is why the Madonna has been kept in Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta ever since.

Posa Posa – We DO NOT want to leave! Feel the warmth and friendliness of the wonderful locals. They are so welcoming. Take joy in the beauty of the landscape, the gorgeous views, and the pretty beaches. Positano Italy is simply magical!

Positano
Remember to bring your camera everywhere!

The BEST of……

Positano BeachesPositano Amalfi Coast

If you’re looking to bask in the Mediterranean sun, you will love the beaches here.  Sun lovers will enjoy a beautiful smooth pebble beach and gorgeous blue water. Read about Spiaggia Grande and the beach clubs…..Comprehensive Guide to Positano Beaches.

Positano Hotels – Best in TownPositano Guide

If you don’t know the layout of the land, or should I say mountainside, it could be a challenge to pick a hotel.  Do you want to be in the heart of town; high up on the cliff with stunning views; or down by the beach with fewer steps to climb.  I will help you in my comprehensive Hotel and Orientation Guide.

Positano Restaurants – Best in Town

The restaurant scene here is buzzing with delicious Southern Italian food and beautiful ambiance. There are so many excellent choices for you!  Restaurant Guide

NightlifePositano Nightlife

Nightlife in this glamorous town consists of everything from dining in a cliffside restaurant with a panoramic view to dancing till the wee hours of the morning in the hottest Amalfi Coast club.  Nightlife Guide.

Getting to PositanoPositano Transportation

Closest Airport:  Naples Capodichino (NAP).
Various transportation options are available such as: ferry, train & bus, private transfer, and car rental. For comprehensive information on transportation choices, CLICK HERE.

Positano Amalfi Coast
Beautiful Steps
Positano Steps
More Steps!

Getting from Naples to Positano

Getting from Naples to Positano

How to get from Naples to Positano

Closest Airport to Positano is Naples Capodichino (NAP)

Getting from Naples to Positano by car can be more than a thrill (terrifying for some) since most of the road zigzags on the edge of a cliff! Even so, if you elect to drive, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. Moreover, you will have the freedom to stop and visit various Amalfi Coast towns. Thankfully, there is now a tunnel between Sorrento and Positano that cuts out some of the cliff-edge driving. In addition, it is important to realize that when you reach Positano, there is limited parking above the town. Check to see if your hotel offers parking. Naples to Positano I’ve found that the least expensive choice (train and bus) takes the longest time. Furthermore, it could be the most crowded and inconvenient with luggage. I find that the moderately priced option (ferry) is an easy way to go. The fastest and most comfortable (private driver) is the most expensive. In my opinion, there are things worth splurging on, and things worth skimping. Safety, time, and convenience may be worth the splurge for you.

Naples Airport to Positano Options:

Train & Bus from Naples to Positano                              Train and Bus from Naples to Positano Train to Positano

The least expensive way is to take the train to Sorrento and then bus to Positano. First, from the Naples airport, take the free shuttle to Napoli Centrale Garibaldi Train Station. Go to the lower level and take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento which is the last stop. Trains depart every 30/60 minutes and the journey can be up to an hour and a half. Be aware that in the summer months the train from Naples to Sorrento is jammed, with standing room only, and not air conditioned! It can be a very unpleasant ride. You can buy your tickets from an automated ticket machine or the ticket office. Secondly, take the Sita bus to Positano. The bus journey is an additional 35 minutes.
Train Tickets: Naples to Sorrento 4.50e each.
Bus Tickets: Sorrento to Positano 2e each.
Important Note: Remember to validate your train ticket before you get on the train! If you don’t, you can be subject to a fine and must purchase another ticket. Also, be aware of pickpockets on the train.

Naples to Positano Ferry

Naples to Positano Ferry

This is a beautiful way to arrive in Positano. You will enjoy the wonderful cascade of colorful homes clinging to the cliff. Positano’s view from the bay offers you a priceless landscape. First take the airport shuttle to Naples Beverello Harbor. Shuttles depart every 10 minutes. Secondly, when arriving at the harbor, find the Alilauro ticket office to purchase your tickets. The Hydrofoil is about a 40 minute journey to Sorrento and then onward to Positano. Be aware that the ferry pier is on beach level near Spiaggia Grande. There is quite an uphill climb to the hotels. You can always hire a porter service when you arrive. It is a good idea to check your hotel location in relation to the pier. Check out my Positano Hotel Guide for my favorite hotels and their position on the mountain.
Note: CASH ONLY! Many people waited on line only to be turned away to find an ATM.
Ferry times: Go to Alilauro for ferry schedule since it varies according to season.
Tickets: First – One way from Naples to Sorrento is 14.10e. Second – One way from Sorrento to Positano is 20.10e. Total is 34.90 euros per person. Also, luggage is 2.10e per piece, per trip.

Private Transfer to Positano
Positano Transfers

Most of the scenic towns that dot the Amalfi coast, including popular Positano, are not accessible by train. In my opinion, the most hassle-free way is via private car transfer from Naples. If you decide on door to door transport, I highly recommend Renato Como Transfers. They will pick you up at the airport arrivals point, and take you directly to your hotel in Positano. In addition, if you want to sightsee for a few hours, you can stop in Pompeii, Herculaneum or Sorrento. Your luggage will be safely stored in the vehicle. Furthermore, you can also stop for delightful lunch at a cliffside restaurant.  Anything you desire they will accommodate.How to get from Naples to Positano

Whatever option you choose, enjoy getting from Naples to Positano. Relish the breathtaking views and appreciate the locals! Of course, when you are on the Amalfi Coast, make your way to Capri, Sorrento, Ravello and Amalfi.

.


Lipari Beaches

Lipari Beaches

Lipari beaches cater to every taste; crowded or deserted, white or dark sand. It is one of the most enchanting natural Unesco heritage areas in the world. The crystalline sea attracts thousands of visitors to the Aeiolan Islands, especially beaches in Lipari! Here are some beaches and beach clubs in Lipari to visit.

Cannetto, Spiaggia Bianca, Porticello and Campobianco. 

Spiaggia Bianca

Spiaggia Bianca is a beautiful pebble beach. It is considered the most beautiful on the island.  It has smooth stones and some sand with beautiful, crystal clear, turquoise water. The most popular beach club there is White Beach Club.

White Beach ClubLipari Beaches

White Beach Club has great food and provides rentals of sun beds and umbrellas during the day. In addition, the Happy Hour DJ starts and in the evening, it turns into a crowded, hot club. Have fun and dance the night away!

Cannetto Beach

Cannetto is a small town on Lipari Island.  It has a long sandy beach and various beach clubs.

Coral Beach Club

Lipari Coral Beach

Coral Beach Club is located on Cannetto beach.  It has amazing food and a wonderful staff.  It is about a 15 minute drive from Lipari Town.  Some of the best food we had on our Italian vacation was at Coral Beach. In addition, Coral offers a free shuttle back and forth to the hotels. Coral Beach LipariWhen arriving at the beach area in Lipari, I found that it is not as beautiful as other beaches in Italy but the people and food definitely make up for it! Therefore, don’t expect it to be as amazing as the beaches in Taormina, or Positano.

Campobianco is known for its whiteness.  The sea floor is among the most beautiful in the whole archipelago.

Porticello is in a bay on the northern coast of Lipari. It has beautiful white sand and turquoise water.  Havana Beach Club is the place to go in Porticello.


Taormina Restaurants

Taormina Restaurants

There is an abundant choice of delicious restaurants in Taormina. Certainly, Italy is noted for its delicious cuisine. And Sicily is unquestionably known for amazing southern Italian food. Taormina restaurants serve local Sicilian specialties such as; arancini, a rice ball filled with meat and peas in a red sauce; Pasta alla Norma, pasta topped with sautéed eggplant and ricotta cheese in a delicious tomato sauce; and of course, stuffed zucchini flower. In addition, there are spectacular pastas, meats and seafood dishes for you to savor. Here are some of the best restaurants in Taormina.

Osteria Rosso DiVinoOsteria RossoDiVino

Fine Dining – One of the best in Taormina. You will enjoy an incredible meal at this charming restaurant. The menu include pastas, seafood and meats which are all outstanding!  A few dishes to savor are the macaroncini with beef ragu, red snapper, lamb and tempura anchovies.  For wine suggestions, try the Etna Bianco, Etna Rossato, or Chianta. Lastly, end your meal with delicious tiramisu or chocolate fondant!  In addition, enjoy the wonderful ambiance. They have a charming balcony in addition to outdoor dining.  Make reservations or ask your hotel to make them for you!
Address:  Via de Spuches 8, Taormina

Casa GioLi
Taormina Casa GioLi

Fine Dining – Casa GioLi boasts a wide variety of food on the menu.  Dishes of meat, seafood and pastas are delicious. Furthermore, they also have an extensive wine selection. The food is delicious!  Try the stuffed zucchini flowers, risotto and beef.  Finally, leave room for dessert!  Try to get a table in their beautiful outdoor garden.  Casa GioLi is above the steps where Daquiri is located.  My suggestion is to enjoy a drink at Daquiri before dinner.  It’s a great place to sit and watch the happenings in the piazza below.
Address:  Via Giordano Bruno 2

La Botte
La Botte Restaurant Taormina

Moderate Dining – We enjoyed a delicious dinner at La Botte. They serve an amazing whole fish baked in salt crust, which makes it moist and delicious. The server removes the crust and expertly filets the fish table-side.  Their pastas are great. Furthermore, they have an extensive wine list.  Enjoy the outdoor dining area.  Make reservations.
Address:  Piazza Santa Domenica 4, Taormina

Da Christina

Casual – This is a family run restaurant that has delicious food. It is perfect for fast food, take out or a casual light dinner.  Try their delicious arancini. Very reasonable prices if you are on a budget.
Address: Via Strabone 2, Taormina

Bam Bar
Bam Bar Taormina

Casual – There are many restaurants in Taormina, but for delicious desserts, Bam Bar is the place to go. They are famous for their granita topped with fresh whipped cream. Your taste buds will be thrilled with delightful desserts, brioche and cappuccino. Everything is fresh and delicious. Not only do they serve up amazing treats, but the atmosphere is just lovely with bright Sicilian ceramic table and tile furnishings.
Address:  Via Di Giovanni 45, Taormina

Restaurants by Taormina Beaches

Villa Carlotta RestaurantVilla Carlotta Restaurant Taormina

Fine Dining – Villa Carlotta is an exceptional restaurant with amazing views from the terrace overlooking the sea. The menu showcases fresh, local, great quality ingredients.  Some absolute stand out dishes: melt in your mouth, Nero D’Avola Filet steak; Swordfish Ravioli; Tuna on a bed of Kiwi & Orange Salad. If you like rose wine, try the Rose di Nere from Noto. The service is excellent and the dishes are beautifully presented.
Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 81, Taormina

Villa AntonioVilla Antonio Taormina

Fine Dining – Villa Antonio is something special. The food, the restaurant, the ambiance and the staff are wonderful. The sweeping views of the sea and Isola Bella cannot be topped. In addition, there is  real dedication to the wine list. Basically, anything on the menu will be delicious!
Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 88, Taormina

 


Taormina Nightlife

Nightlife in Taormina

You’re sure to enjoy the nightlife in Taormina since the town buzzes with energy!  Start your evening at one of the many places to have cocktails and relish the wonderful atmosphere.  Furthermore many of the hotels serve cocktails on their terraces or rooftops.  Taormina nightlifeNext, take off to a hot club if you want to dance into the wee hours of the morning. If you are low key or on a family vacation, enjoy the musicians and artists in the streets as well as gelato, granita or dessert! The piazza’s and walkways are busy with happy, beautiful people! You will be kept busy and entertained with Taormina nightlife.

At some point, savor dinner at one of Taormina’s delicious restaurants.  Sicilians usually have dinner between 9 and 10 pm.

Daiquiri Taormina

Daiquiri Cocktail and Wine Bar is situated on one of the most beautiful staircases in the heart of Taormina. The ambiance is terrific with Sicilian sculptures on the steps along with pretty seating areas with comfy pillows. You will enjoy delicious cocktails as well as light bites. This is definitely a place to enjoy the atmosphere and  watch people strolling by in the piazza below. Drink up the atmosphere and the yummy beverages!
Address:  Piazza Duomo, Taormina

La Giara

La Giara is the night club for Taormina.  First of all, it is very beautiful with a modern elegant design.  There is an outdoor area with beautiful views of the the lights shimmering on the sea.  This is a hot spot for Taormina nightlife. Crowds party and dance until the wee hours of the night.  It is centrally located right in the middle of town.  Although it is down a side staircase, you won’t miss it because you will see a red carpet and employees outside.  Admission was free, although there may be a time frame to that.
Address: Vico la Floresta, 1, Taormina

Morgana Bar
Taormina Morgana Bar

Nightlife in Taormina can start at Morgana Bar. It is a chic lounge with an open air garden.  It has a well dressed crowd, delicious cocktails, and good music.  Morgana is a small cozy place, right off Corso Umberto, and great for a nightcap and light bite.
Address: Scesa Morgana, 4

Hotel Timeo
Taormina Hotel Belmond Grand Timeo

For an elegant evening, enjoy a cocktail at the beautiful terrace of Hotel Timeo. You will have stunning views of lights sparkling in the sea as well Mount Etna and the lights of city center. The drinks are delicious and come with a plate of goodies to eat.

CONCERT AT THE GREEK THEATRE

Taormina Greek Theatre

See a show at the Ancient Greek Theatre in Taormina. This is a fully modern entertainment venue.  Shows range from Sting and Brian Wilson to classic operas and the delicious sounds of Il Volo.  Various performances include concerts, operas, theatre productions, and symphonies. Make it an unforgettable night. Click here for upcoming events and to purchase tickets.

Daiquiri Taormina


Taormina Hotels

Taormina Hotels

TOP HOTELS IN TAORMINA

Let me help you discover the best Taormina Sicily hotels that will make you so glad you chose! Certainly, there are so many Taormina hotels to choose from, but which will be the perfect one for you?  

In the first place, here are some things to consider. Do you want to be in the heart of the historical center, or on the outer edges. Do you prefer Taormina hotels with pools? If so, there are only a handful available. Do you want be in the lap of luxury or a stay at a value hotel.  Additionally, you may want to choose a hotel by the beach. However, the beach is a steep 20 minute walk down from town. Luckily, for 6 euros roundtrip, there is a funivia (cable car) back and forth.  All things considered, I will help you find your perfect choice!

Taormina View

In my opinion, staying in town center is best.  Taormina is built on a steep hillside overlooking the sea and the views are spectacular.  It is a very walkable town – essentially a pedestrian only resort.  Most hotels are no longer than a 15 minute walk to center. Some are on the main pedestrian walkway, Corso Umberto.

In conclusion, before you book, know your hotel basics. Do they have a shuttle to the beaches. Do you have to walk far with your luggage? Is there be a steep climb up to your hotel?

TOP TAORMINA HOTELS

Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

Grand Hotel Timeo

Luxury – For an unforgettable experience, the world-renowned and majestic, Grand Hotel Timeo, will more than fill your every wish.  Situated on a Sicilian clifftop, it overlooks the terracotta rooftops of the medieval town and sports a mesmerizing view of the shimmering Ionian Sea. The rooms are elegant, spacious and beautifully decorated, most with a beautiful views. You will receive personalized service and attention to detail from the amazing staff.

A MUST is relaxing and having a cocktail on their exquisite terrace or a dip in the pool. There are cascading gardens below and a magnificent view of the sea, Taormina rooftops and Mount Etna in the distance. The restaurant has delicious locally sourced Sicilian favorites and, of course, it is the most scenic restaurant I’ve ever been to. The hotel is perfectly located, as it is just steps off Corso Umberto.  It is also next door to the Ancient Greek Theatre, where ancient history mixes with amazing performances.  You will have an amazing experience during your stay at this magnificent hotel.
Tip:  Even if you are not staying here, definitely go for a cocktail, hors d’oeuvres and take in the amazing view from the grand terrace.  All are welcome.  Dress appropriately.
Address · Via Teatro Greco 59, 98039 Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Hotel Metropole Taormina

Hotel Metropole Taormina

Luxury with Pool – Incredible views, excellent service and great music on the terrace. Simply my favorite hotel in Taormina is Hotel Metropole. First of all it is located perfectly in the center of town withing walking distance of everything. Secondly, it sits cliffside with spectacular views of the sea from it’s terrace lounge and restaurant. Rooms also have sea views and some have Jacuzzi’s on their balconys. The staff is top notch and will help you with any need. In addition, your car service can pull up to drop off luggage on the lower floor behind hotel.

The infinity pool at Metropole is beautiful and refreshing after a hot day of sightseeing. Enjoy a swim and excellent cocktails by the pool! This is my favorite!!
Address: Corso Umberto 154, Taormina

The Ashbee Hotel
Taormina Ashbee Hotel

The Ashbee Hotel is on the grounds of a restored luxurious 1900’s villa. The rooms are elegant and refined including some with stone fireplaces. It is located 2 minutes outside the beginning of Taormina historic center on the grounds of a beautiful Mediterranean garden . It boasts a large panoramic terrace, an infinity swimming pool and incredible views of the sea. A wonderful view and breakfast is served on their rooftop terrace. You will have a wonderful stay in the beautiful boutique hotel.
Address:  Via San Pancrazio n. 46, Taormina

Hotel Taodomus

Superior – The Taodomus is a wonderful boutique hotel located in the center of Taormina on the wonderful pedestrian street, Corso Umberto. There is a lovely rooftop terrace with beautiful panoramic views.  In the morning, enjoy a delicious, bountiful breakfast served al fresco on the rooftop.  In the evening, watch the sunset and enjoy drinks at the Honesty rooftop bar. The rooms are spotlessly clean and tastefully decorated. It is an oasis of calm on the buzzing Corso Umberto, and steps from all that Taormina has to offer!
Tip: Save 10% if you book on  Hotel Taodomus’ website and they will also reserve your parking.
Address: Corso Umberto 224, 98039 Taormina, Sicily

Hotel La Pensione Svizzera
Taormina, Pensione Svizzera

Value: I like La Pensione Svizzera for it’s value, location, cleanliness and wonderful staff. This is a family run Sicilian hotel with charming gardens and lounge areas. Furthermore, you will be welcomed with a Sicilian bottle of wine. Most rooms have balconies with panoramic sea views. However, be aware that there is no elevator. Breakfast is amazing and served on the outdoor terrace with sea view. This hotel is a five minute walk to Porta Messina, which is the beginning of the Corso Umberto. On your way, you will pass the Cable Car (Funivia) which brings you up and down from Taormina to the beautiful beach area.  In addition, if you walk a few minutes in the other direction, you will find the bus station.
Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 26, 98039 Taormina, Sicily

TAORMINA B&B’s

B&B Varo
Taormina B&B Varo

B&B – This hidden gem is a terrific Bed & Breakfast in a wonderful local home. Varo B&B is perfectly located in beautiful little Piazza Varo. It is just steps (less than one minute) from the center of Corso Umberto.  Alessandra and Federico are the perfect hosts and will help you with anything!  In addition, you will have a wonderful breakfast on their scenic rooftop terrace.  Alessandra makes a wicked apple cake and the best cappuccino!  Absolutely delicious! The rooms and bathrooms are sparkling clean. In my opinion, this is the best B&B in Tormina!  You will love it!
Address:  Piazza Varo 10/12, 98039 Taormina Sicily

TAORMINA BEACH HOTELS

La Plage Resort
Taormina La Plage Resort

Luxury: First of all, La Place Resort is a five star luxury hotel on the beach with a gorgeous view of Isola Bella.  Secondly, the hotel and rooms are absolutely beautiful and elegant.  You will be in the lap of luxury and get VIP treatment from the staff. In addition, they have an exclusive spa to get pampered in.  A great place for a magnificent wedding reception.
Address: Via Nazionale, 107/A, Isola Bella, Taormina