Attractions Nearby Positano, Day Trips and Excursions

(Positano, Campania, Italy)

Campania is a popular part of Italy, mainly because of its wealth of attractions, many of which are conveniently close to Positano. An excursion to the island of Capri is really very hard to beat and the thousands of day trippers who visit each week from all around the Bay of Naples give a clear impression of its popularity and plentiful attractions, with ferry trips from Positano being quite inexpensive and easy to book.

Home of the Neapolitan pizza and Italian movie star Sophia Loren, the vibrant city of Naples is located some 60 km / 37 miles to the north-west of Positano and overflowing with world-class attractions. Also of note are the coastal resorts of Amalfi, Ravello, Sorrento, and the historical ruins at both Herculaneum and Pompeii.

Amalfi

Although the Amalfi of today is a pretty seafront town with a small population, it was historically once home to more than ten times as many people, operating as a very influential superpower until a devastating earthquake in the 14th century. The attractions of Amalfi are just 16 km / 10 miles to the east of Positano and therefore an extremely popular and easy excursion. Tourists come here to marvel at the Sant'Andrea Cathedral on the centrally located Piazza del Duomo, or to simply enjoy a leisurely stroll around the innumerable whitewashed alleyways and arches, whilst spotting tantalizing glimpses of the azure-blue sea.

Isle of Capri

It is simple to reach Capri from Positano by ferry, although do bear in mind that you will usually need to book your place the day before, so plan accordingly. Once you arrive on Capri you will be greeted with sights such as historic churches around the central Piazza Umberto, and Mediterranean 'sea caves' on the coastline, of which the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) is especially famous.

Salerno

A relatively large and spreading city with a population of around 150,000 people, Salerno lies approximately 44 km / 27 miles to the east of Positano. Those arriving in Salerno by rail will find the train station on the Piazza Vittorio, on the eastern side of the city, being connected to the centre by regular intercity buses. Attractions in Salerno are varied and one of the most famous is the city's cathedral, which is known to date back as far as the 11th century. Also of note are the museums, which include the Museo Archeologico Provinciale and its regional treasures, and the Museo Pinacoteca Provinciale, situated in the medieval quarter and home to a collection of artefacts from the Renaissance period upwards.

Naples (Napoli)

The Naples Cathedral (Duomo) is just one of the city's many breathtaking attractions and this impressive structure dates back to the end of the 13th century, while the Orto Botanico (Botanical Gardens) are also not to be missed and one of Italy's biggest of its kind. If you do leave time to visit Naples, check out the shopping scene around the Piazza dei Martiri, and bring a camera, as you will be sure to want to remember the bay front views of Mount Vesuvius.

Sorrento

Although Sorrento has grown into a rather commercial beach resort, it still manages to successfully retain much of its historic character and relaxed atmosphere. Sorrento is extremely near to Positano and is sited 16 km / 10 miles to the west, being literally only a matter of minutes away. The true epicentre of Sorrento is marked by the Piazza Tasso, around which are many restaurants and attractions. Close by and along the Corso Italia, the city's cathedral is hard to miss, while for some of the best views imaginable, head to the gardens of the Villa Comunale, next to the Chiesa di San Francesco.

Ravello

Famed for its Music Festival, which is held each year during the month of July, the local tourist office has started promoting Ravello as the 'City of Music'. Ravello is very much a cultural destination and enjoys some breathtaking views across the Amalfi Coast, being a mere 26 km / 16 miles to the east of Positano. Other attractions are historical and dotted around the cathedral and its square (Piazza Duomo), such as the nearby Villa Rufolo, which was once the home of famous German composer, Richard Wagner. The numerous vineyards of Ravello may also be of interest and include the Casa Vinicola Caruso, the Vini Episcopio, and the Vini Sammarco.