Why Positano Is the most romantic destination in Italy—and how to make the most of It

Few destinations whisper amore quite like Positano. The most famous cliffside town on the Amalfi Coast is exactly the kind of place where Sheldon Cooper’s Valentine’s Day meme hits a little too close to home for the single-hearted.

With A-class options of hotels, fancy restaurants, and panoramic paths, Positano has long been a dream for honeymoons, anniversary trips, and soap-opera-style proposals. But is it really the ultimate escape for the last of the romantics? Discover everything in our guide to Positano for couples! 

You’ll need to learn just two words for this trip: Ti amo! A paradise for couples, Positano is the perfect cliché of Italian romance.

Few places on earth can match its bold repertoire, which is nothing less than a full-blown cinematic experience. It’s no wonder honeymooners and nervous proposal planners gravitate here, hoping for that perfect love moment to manifest.

Impressing your other half is a piece of cake (a Delizia al limone, naturally), because hotels have the best views one could imagine, restaurants are bellissimi, and couples' spas are lussuose.

If you're aiming to create memories to share with your future grandchildren, then you’re in desperate need of Positano. Here are a few examples of why Positano for couples is always a good idea.  

You probably won't be the only couple in Positano searching for something memorable. Still, it's possible to find your own quiet moments, even during the busiest months.

A sunset cruise is a classic for a reason. Sailing along the Amalfi Coast with a glass of Prosecco as the sun sets is hard to beat. There are dozens of organised group tours, but intimacy is not their thing. For the right atmosphere, look for local skippers who arrange private boat tours for couples (we’ll get to that shortly).

Restaurants with sea views are a Positano staple. So once you’re back on dry land, shake off the salt and book a candlelit dinner. If your hotel has its own terrace venue, consider yourself lucky.

As for couples’ activities, don’t just think spas and sightseeing tours, but add a limoncello class or a pottery workshop to enjoy together. Ask at your hotel to see what experiences they have on offer.

Exploring is half the fun, and no vehicle makes it feel more romantic than a scooter. Swap buses and cars for two wheels and suddenly you’re in a 60s film, breezing along the hairpin bends with the wind in your hair (but always remember to wear a helmet!).

A scooter gives you the freedom to stop in the most romantic Amalfi Coast towns and lets you reach those jaw-dropping panoramas with ease. If you need inspiration, we’ve got a full guide to the best views on the coast.

You could rack up a lot of brownie points with your partner simply by choosing the right place to stay.

For the ultimate relaxing experience, look for the best hotels in Positano that host a spa for couples, so you can slip in for a massage or a steam whenever the mood strikes.

Many places also have terraces and private balconies, so lovebirds don’t even need to leave their room to enjoy those famous Amalfi Coast panoramas. 

Location matters, too. In some cases, apartments and B&Bs outside the centre are an alternative for a romantic getaway on a budget, but staying in the heart of town puts you close to shops, restaurants, and main sights.

We love Hotel Montemare, a central option that still feels peaceful and private. It is a lovely spot for honeymooners, with in-room Jacuzzis, a wellness area, and the chance to enjoy meals at Il Capitano, the hotel’s terrace restaurant.  

When the "Positano for couples" trip happens to include bambini, romance isn’t off the table. Some venues offer babysitting services, so you can still sneak out for that candlelit dinner or night passeggiata, knowing that your children are well cared for.

When the time comes to pop the question, Positano does half the job for you.

For the full fairy tale, some local operators sell proposal packages that include a private yacht, champagne, red roses, and a professional photographer. The most romantic Amalfi Coast play the supporting role in the show.

Hiking trails can also reveal a surprisingly romantic side, and the Costiera Amalfitana boasts some of the best in Italy: Sentiero degli Dei (path of the gods), Sentiero dei Limoni (lemon path), Vallone delle Ferriere, and the trails to Punta Campanella and the Bay of Ieranto. Positano probably has the fairest of them all (or at least the most romantic). It’s a little seaside lane, officially called Via Positanesi d’America, so loved by couples that it’s been nicknamed the “Lovers’ Lane” (sentiero degli innamorati). 

A “walking” proposal is an unconventional upgrade on the classic candlelit dinner. For the latter, though, options are certainly not lacking, with terraces over the sea, ultra-luxurious venues and rustic countryside locations that make it hard to imagine saying anything but yes.

Positano is a hot favourite among newlyweds and seasoned couples looking to celebrate their honeymoon in Italy.

The most enjoyable months are late spring and early autumn, when the temperatures are warm enough for living the beach life but not too hot to handle. Crowds are thinner, getting around is far less congested, buying tickets for tourist attractions is more straightforward, and with kids still in school, beaches are quieter on weekdays. 

Summer isn't off-limits, but be prepared for throngs of visitors, higher prices, longer lines at museums and ticket offices, and a busier local scene.

In winter, things quiet down and the weather can be mild, though some hotels, restaurants, and attractions may close. Nearby sites like Pompeii and Ercolaneum remain open all year.

A pro tip to enhance your "Positano for couples" experience: check the local event calendar and plan your trip around any festivals or events you want to see. For example, the Ravello Festival, popular with music lovers, runs from July to August.

Couples short on time: the good news is that two or three days in Positano are enough to let you find your happy ever after. We have a few ideas for you, so take notes.

Start in the historic centre. Browse the linen dress shops, watch the cobblers at work, and enter the main churches (Santa Maria Assunta, Santa Maria del Rosario, Santa Caterina). Stop by the Roman Archaeological Museum. If the sun is out, pick a beach (Marina Grande, Fornillo, Arienzo, Laurito, La Porta) and relax for a while. Wrap up with an aperitivo and dinner by the sea.

On your second day, visit some of the nearby towns. Check out Praiano, Furore, Conca dei Marini, Amalfi, Ravello, Atrani, Scala, Minori, Maiori, Cetara, or Vietri sul Mare. If you prefer, book a boat trip or take a nature walk, for example to see the arch of Montepertuso. If you have a third day, save it for whatever you missed.

There’s a lot more to explore on the Amalfi Coast, but you’ll need more time. Have a look at our 5-day itinerary for extra ideas. 

Driving in Positano is not recommended due to its narrow streets and limited parking. Couples can use buses, taxis or private transfers to move between the main beach and the upper town. It’s a small resort town, and you walk to get everywhere. Scooters are also an option for more freedom to explore the Amalfi Coast.

Private boat tours take you to places inaccessible on foot. Some are especially designed for couples and special occasions, such as a wedding proposal in Positano, and include a photographer to capture the moment.

Marina Grande Beach is lively, with lots of beach clubs and places to relax by the water. Some hotels have their own private beach area or offer towel rentals. Arienzo and Laurito are two secluded and picturesque beaches in Positano. They’re a bit of a walk down, but worth it for their beauty and panorama.

Positano for couples is a wonderful choice and so is Capri. If you have time, visit both. In Positano, you can explore the Amalfi Coast whenever you want. In Capri, remember the ferries stop running in the evening, so plan ahead.