Positano or Sorrento | Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?
Deciding between Positano or Sorrento can be a challenging task as both locations on the Amalfi coast are stunning and have unique characteristics that can affect the overall cost of your Italian holiday. It’s like choosing between a valuable diamond and a precious sapphire. In this guide, we will explore the differences between the two…
Deciding between Positano or Sorrento can be a challenging task as both locations on the Amalfi coast are stunning and have unique characteristics that can affect the overall cost of your Italian holiday.
It’s like choosing between a valuable diamond and a precious sapphire. In this guide, we will explore the differences between the two destinations and highlight the key factors that distinguish Positano and Sorrento. With all the necessary information, you will be able to make an informed decision and select the perfect destination for your Italian getaway.
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Things to know about Sorrento
Sorrento is a charming town situated on the northern end of the Amalfi Coast. It is renowned for its picturesque lemon groves and breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. Sorrento is a popular destination for families and couples seeking a romantic getaway in Italy. The town’s appeal lies in its pedestrian-friendly streets and historic centre.
Many people prefer to stay in Sorrento due to its proximity to major landmarks and affordable accommodation options. From here, you can easily plan a day trip to Capri, Pompeii and explore the rest of the Amalfi Coast. Compared to Positano, Sorrento has a more laid-back atmosphere, with several lovely parks to relax in and a pedestrian-friendly city centre.
Where is Sorrento
Located on the northern end of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. Getting there is easy, with options including car, train (the Vesuviana), and ferry from Molo Beverello.
If you’re flying into Naples, the airport is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Sorrento. Taxis and buses are available, but we recommend booking in advance to avoid long queues, especially during the summer months.
Best time to visit Sorrento
Sorrento is a highly sought-after destination for tourists all year round. However, we recommend visiting during the off-season to truly enjoy your trip. From May to September, Sorrento is incredibly crowded, which can detract from your experience. Although the weather is warm and sunny during this time, the sea is also warm enough for swimming, and prices for accommodations and services tend to be higher.
If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere and want to avoid the crowds, consider planning your visit between October and April, during the shoulder season.
We prefer to travel during this time, as it allows us to enjoy the town and its surroundings without feeling overwhelmed. Although it is the off-season, you may still get lucky and have access to the beaches like a local. Sorrento is a vibrant cultural hub with many events happening year-round.
The city hosts several festivals, such as the Sorrento Film Festival in the summer and the Lemon Festival in the spring. In fact, we included Sorrento in our guide to Christmas in Naples because the city has one of the best festive atmospheres. So, whether you visit during the peak season or the off-season, Sorrento is a beautiful and exciting place to explore.
Things to know about Positano
Positano is a charming small town situated on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. This picturesque village is famous for its colourful houses and steep, narrow streets, making it a popular destination for couples and newlyweds. You may have come across some of the stunning photos of Positano on social media.
The highlight of Positano is its breathtaking location on a cliff facing the sea. During your visit, don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the delightful maze of narrow streets, filled with boutique shops and restaurants.
Best time to visit Positano
If you’re planning a trip to Positano, it’s best to avoid the peak tourist season from May to September, especially July and August, as these months tend to be the busiest. Instead, we recommend visiting from mid-September onwards when there are fewer people, and you can experience the town with its local charm.
However, even during the shoulder season, the town can still feel overcrowded due to its small size.
Another great time to visit is during spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild, and nature is in full bloom. The town is less crowded during this time, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning colours of spring. Additionally, spring in Positano offers a chance to partake in outdoor activities such as hiking, not just enjoying the beaches.
Where is Positano
Positano is approximately 70 kilometres (43 miles) away from the Naples International Airport. While there are public transport options available, the journey can be lengthy and often requires a change in Sorrento. To save time and hassle, we recommend booking private transport before your arrival in Naples.
You can check out our suggestions for reliable transport services here. Located in the southern end of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano is a charming and picturesque town situated around 60 kilometers (37 miles) southeast of Naples. It’s the perfect mid-way point between Sorrento and Amalfi, making it an ideal place to stay if you’re planning on taking day trips to both locations.
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Positano or Sorrento? Our Comparison!
Things to do Positano vs Sorrento
Both Positano and Sorrento have plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. Positano is famous for its beautiful beaches, like Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach, as well as its charming streets filled with colorful buildings and unique shops.
In contrast, Sorrento offers a wider range of attractions, including the historic Old Town, the lovely Villa Comunale park, and the spectacular Cloister of San Francesco. If you’re seeking a more diverse range of activities, Sorrento may be the better option.
Here are some of the top things to do in Positano vs Sorrento:
Things to do in Sorrento
Things to do in Positano
Sorrento or Positano | How to get around?
How to get around Sorrento:
Sorrento is a charming little town that is easily navigable by foot. The city centre is only accessible to pedestrians on the weekends, and the old town’s narrow streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll any day of the week.
However, if you desire to explore more of the area, buses and trains are available. The Circumvesuviana train line links Sorrento to Naples, Pompeii, and Herculaneum Ruins. Taxis are also an option, but they can be quite pricey.
How to get around Positano:
Navigating through Positano’s steep hills and narrow streets can take time and effort. While walking is the most popular way to get around, small buses and taxis are also at your disposal.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, you can rent a scooter and embrace the Italian lifestyle, or even a boat in Spiaggia Grande to discover Amalfi Coast’s hidden beaches and coastline.
You can go from Sorrento to Positano by Ferry
It’s worth noting that it’s possible to travel between Sorrento and Positano by ferry. Various boats and companies depart from Sorrento Harbour to Positano Spiaggia Grande every day during the peak season, starting from April 1st.
However, keep in mind that weather and sea conditions may cause changes to the schedule, so be sure to check the timetable and departures.
Location and accessibility to the Amalfi Coast
If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, you will want to experience the stunning towns of Positano and Sorrento. While Sorrento is technically part of the Sorrentino Coast, both towns are located along the same picturesque stretch of coastline known for its breathtaking cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside villages.
Driving along the Amalfi Coast is an experience like no other, with plenty of opportunities to pull over and take in the stunning panoramic views. While both towns are easily accessible by car or public transportation, Sorrento is a larger town and can also be reached by train.
If you’re travelling from Naples to Positano, you must transfer to Sorrento and catch a bus to complete your journey. For those looking for a more convenient location with easy access to the rest of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento may be the better choice.
Distance Sorrento to Positano
The coastal road from Sorrento to Positano covers a distance of about 16 kilometers (10 miles) and takes around 30 minutes by car or bus.
Overall Distances | Positano or Sorrento
| Location | Distance from Sorrento | Distance from Positano |
|---|---|---|
| Naples | 50 km (31 miles) | 60 km (37 miles) |
| Amalfi Coast | 20 km (12 miles) to Amalfi, 30 km (18 miles) to Ravello | 5 km (3 miles) to Praiano, 10 km (6 miles) to Amalfi, 18 km (11 miles) to Ravello |
| Pompeii | 14 km (9 miles) | 30 km (19 miles) |
| Salerno | 50 km (31 miles) | 35 km (22 miles) |
| Mt. Vesuvius | 27 km (17 miles) | 45 km (28 miles) |
| Naples Airport | 52 km (32 miles) | 62 km (39 miles) |
Best Beaches | Sorrento vs Positano
In the Sorrento Vs Positano challenge, Positano takes the lead with its stunning beaches. While both locations have beautiful coastlines, Positano boasts several unique beaches, some of which can only be accessed by sea. The easily reachable beaches in Positano are Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach.
On the other hand, Sorrento has a rocky coastline with fewer sandy beaches, but it still has some great swimming spots like Marina Grande and Bagni della Regina Giovanna. We were amazed to discover the latter by boat from Sorrento Harbour. Despite Positano’s advantage in this challenge, Sorrento’s location and facilities still make it our top preference.
Positano Beaches
- Spiaggia Grande
- Fornillo Beach
- Laurito Beach
Sorrento Beaches
- Marina Grande
- Bagni della Regina Giovanna
- Meta Beach and Vico Equense
Sorrento or Positano for the Food Scene?
Both Positano and Sorrento boast incredible food scenes that are heavily influenced by the fresh seafood and local ingredients of the Amalfi Coast. The local cuisine is similar in both places.
However, if you’re looking for a more diverse culinary experience, Sorrento might be the better choice. It offers a wider variety of dining options, from traditional Italian cuisine to international dishes, and has more affordable choices than Positano.
On the other hand, Positano is famous for its upscale restaurants with breathtaking views and high-quality cuisine, making it an excellent option for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Ultimately, your personal preferences and budget will determine which place to choose. We highly recommend trying the “Spaghetti alla Nerano,” a unique dish that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Nightlife in Sorrento vs Positano
When it comes to nightlife, Sorrento is the better choice as it offers a broader range of options compared to Positano. With numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues that stay open late, Sorrento is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The lively Piazza Tasso or nearby clubs are great options whether you want to enjoy a drink or dance the night away. On the other hand, Positano is smaller and only has a few bars and nightclubs. It’s more of a one-night stand where you can dance on the beach and drink. For a more detailed guide to the nightlife in Sorrento and Positano, continue reading.
Positano nightlife
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and romantic nightlife scene in Positano, skip the lively atmosphere of Sorrento. However, there are still a few great spots for a night out, like Music on the Rocks, a club that offers live music and dancing.
Alternatively, you could visit Franco’s Bar, a popular drink spot with stunning sea views. If you prefer a quieter evening, head to La Zagara Wine Bar for a selection of local wines and a cosy atmosphere. It’s worth noting that La Zagara is located near Hotel “Le Sirenuse,” one of Positano’s most popular Instagrammable places.
Sorrento Nightlife
Sorrento boasts a bustling nightlife with a plethora of choices to suit all preferences. If you’re seeking a laid-back evening, there are many bars to choose from, including the renowned Fauno Bar, which is located in the main square and offers a relaxed ambience and diverse cocktail menu.
Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for dancing, the Music on the Rocks nightclub in Positano is a popular option, known for its lively atmosphere and breathtaking views of the sea.
Accommodations | Is it better to stay in Sorrento or Positano?
If you’re planning a trip to either Positano or Sorrento, you’ll be pleased to know that both towns offer various accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
From quaint bed and breakfasts to opulent five-star hotels, you’ll find plenty of choices in either destination. However, it’s worth noting that accommodation in Positano can be pretty pricey, especially during peak season. If you want to stick to a budget, Sorrento is the better option.
In Positano, the most popular areas to stay are close to the beach or town centre. On average, you can expect to pay around 30% more to stay in Positano than in Sorrento, and finding last-minute budget-friendly accommodation can be challenging.
On the other hand, Sorrento offers a range of accommodation options, from affordable bed and breakfasts to lavish hotels. The city centre is the most popular area to stay in Sorrento, but we also recommend checking out Piano di Sorrento and Vico Equense.
Positano or Sorrento as a Base?
Based on several factors, the most suitable answer is Sorrento. This city provides various options in terms of accommodations, restaurants and activities.
Additionally, it is more conveniently located, allowing for easy access to other attractions such as Pompeii, Vesuvius and Amalfi. Although Positano can be reached by ferry in less than an hour, Sorrento offers a more centralized location within the Naples Province.
Budgeting for Sorrento Vs Positano
Positano is considered to be a pricier destination compared to Sorrento. It is more exclusive and luxurious, attracting affluent travellers and VIPs. As a result, the cost of accommodations, dining, and activities is generally higher in Positano than in Sorrento. However, you can still find affordable options in both places if you plan and avoid peak travel times.
TRANSPORTATION | Transportation costs in Positano are generally higher than in Sorrento. A single bus ride within the town of Positano can cost around 2 euros per person, and taxi rides are more expensive due to the winding and narrow roads. On the other hand, transportation costs in Sorrento are more reasonable, with single bus rides averaging 1-2 euros per person and taxis being reasonably priced.
EAT OUT | In Positano, expect to spend around 25-50 euros per person for a mid-range meal at a restaurant. However, in Sorrento, mid-range meals are more affordable, generally costing approximately 15-30 euros per person.
Best tours | Positano vs Sorrento
You can reach Positano from Sorrento by joining one of the many tours that depart from the city centre daily. Check which is the most suitable for you and explore the Amalfi Coast easily.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is cheap and costs about € 20 for a short trip, making it budget-friendly and convenient. Consider that travel insurance also covers you for the equipment, lost or stolen luggage, general assistance or unexpected trip cancellation. We always use two Insurance companies, specialised for short and long trips. Check out Safety Wing and Hey Mondo.
Final Considerations about Positano and Sorrento
We have given enough information to make the right choice. Of course, the overall gives to Sorrento the crown of the best location to stay on the Amalfi Coast, but this might vary depending on your necessity. Positano vs Sorrento is a tough choice, but you will surely get the pros and cons of both locations.
Both towns offer stunning scenery, incredible food and drink, and plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. However, if you’re looking for a more convenient location with easy access to the rest of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more romantic and secluded getaway, Positano may be your ideal destination.
