Last Updated on September 9, 2025 by Lauren Belzer Sanford
There are few places as instantly recognizable — or as dreamt about — as Positano. Tucked into the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, this colorful village feels like it was built for romance. But with that dream comes a dose of reality: Positano is one of the most expensive places in Italy to stay, and choosing a hotel can feel overwhelming with so many beautiful (and pricey!) options.
I’ve been to Positano twice now: once for a short-day trip from where we stayed in Sorrento, and the other for three nights on our honeymoon. When we planned our honeymoon, we knew we wanted at least a few days in Positano — even if it meant a splurge. We’ll share where we ended up staying, along with the other hotels that made it onto our shortlist and future wish list.
Hotel Buca di Bacco (Our Honeymoon Stay)
For our 12-day Italian honeymoon, we chose Hotel Buca di Bacco, a four-star hotel located right above Positano’s main beach. The property is known for its unbeatable location — steps from the sand, restaurants, and shopping — making it one of the most convenient options in town. Rooms feature sea views or views of Positano’s iconic church dome, and the hotel offers a wonderful breakfast buffet, warm service, and classic coastal style. While it doesn’t have a pool, its proximity to the beach, boat tours and ferry terminal makes it a great choice for travelers who plan to be out exploring the Amalfi Coast.
Highlights:
- Prime location directly above Spiaggia Grande
- Classic Mediterranean-style rooms with sea or town views
- Generous breakfast buffet included
- Friendly, attentive service
- Steps from boat tours, restaurants, and shopping
Le Sirenuse
An Amalfi Coast legend, Le Sirenuse is one of the most famous hotels in Italy and the definition of a dream stay in Positano. With chic interiors, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a glamorous pool terrace, it sets the standard for luxury. It’s often booked out months in advance — and with good reason.
Highlights:
- Elegant rooms with private balconies and sea views
- Michelin-starred restaurant, La Sponda
- Pool terrace with sweeping views over Positano
- World-renowned luxury service and amenities
Hotel Poseidon
Family-owned and filled with authentic Positano charm, Hotel Poseidon strikes a beautiful balance between boutique warmth and polished amenities. With a pool, spacious terrace, and inviting Mediterranean style, it’s a favorite for couples looking for a romantic but approachable stay.
Highlights:
- Outdoor pool with panoramic views of the town and coast
- Expansive terrace perfect for sunset cocktails
- Romantic atmosphere with vintage Mediterranean décor
- On-site restaurant and bar (Il Tridente Positano) for easy dining
Hotel Palazzo Murat
Set in an 18th-century palace, Palazzo Murat offers lush gardens and timeless elegance just steps from Positano’s main beach. With its lemon grove, refined rooms, and central location, it feels like a tranquil escape right in the middle of the action. This just so happens to be a Positano bucket-list property for me, so I hope to go back to visit!
Highlights:
- Central location, minutes from shops, restaurants, and the beach
- Gorgeous garden restaurant shaded by lemon trees
- Spacious, airy rooms blending traditional and modern style
- Exceptional personalized service
Choosing where to stay in Positano really comes down to three things: location, amenities, and budget. Some travelers dream of checking into a five-star icon like Le Sirenuse, while others may prefer the intimate charm of a boutique property or the convenience of being right on the beach. No matter which direction you go, Positano is the kind of place where your hotel will play a big role in the overall experience — the views, the service, the access to town, all of it.
For us, being able to stay in Positano feels absolutely worth it, even if it means a shorter stay compared to other destinations on an Italian vacation. If you’re planning a trip, my biggest tip is to treat Positano as a “special occasion” stop: stay a little shorter, enjoy the luxury, and then balance it with more affordable (but still stunning) towns in Italy or along the Amalfi Coast (like Amalfi, Ravello, or Praiano). And if you’re looking for more affordable luxury options in Italy, check out the southern Adriatic coast in Puglia!
At the end of the day, there’s no wrong choice here — just the one that matches your travel style and priorities. Whether you’re sipping spritzes at Le Sirenuse or stepping out onto the beach from the stairs of Buca di Bacco, Positano is pure magic.