Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by Lauren Belzer Sanford
When we planned for a part of our honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast, we knew we wanted to stay somewhere that felt truly Positano: romantic, charming, and right in the heart of it all. Hotel Buca di Bacco delivered on all of that and more. Nestled just above Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach, the hotel blends old-world Italian charm with warm hospitality and sweeping views of the sea and pastel-colored cliffsides.
From the moment we checked in, we understood why Buca di Bacco has become such an iconic choice in Positano. Its history runs deep, yet the experience feels timeless—think hand-painted tile floors, welcoming staff, and sun-drenched terraces made for long, lazy mornings with Italian espresso, or slow afternoon aperitivi as the crowds start to dwindle.
Related: Where to Stay in Positano: Boutique Hotels & Luxury Stays
It’s no secret that staying in Positano comes with a hefty price tag. Honestly, just about every hotel here is expensive, especially if you’re opting for a luxury stay (of which you have plenty of options). That’s part of the trade-off for waking up in one of the most beautiful places in the world. While you can find a range of accommodations, from boutique stays to five-star luxury resorts, stunning Amalfi Coast Airbnbs, even the simplest spots are still on the higher end compared to other Italian destinations. For us, Hotel Buca di Bacco, a four-star hotel, was worth the splurge.
The Rooms & Views
Each room is uniquely decorated with colorful ceramics and traditional touches that capture Positano’s character. Our room opened out onto a balcony with the kind of view you daydream about: rows of cascading houses, the turquoise water, and boats bobbing in the harbor. Even inside, the details were thoughtful, from crisp linens to local artwork and those signature Amalfi touches that make you feel worlds away.
Dining at Buca di Bacco
The hotel has its own restaurant, but it also has one of the best breakfast buffets I’ve had (outside of hotels in Puglia, which still take the cake). Breakfast is served each morning on the terrace overlooking the beach—a spread of fresh fruit, pastries, cold cuts and cheeses, and cappuccinos that quickly became our favorite morning ritual. In the evening, the restaurant is a lively spot for traditional Campanian dishes, from fresh seafood pasta to wood-fired pizza. You can even book a quintessential Positano cooking class if you’d like to bring a bit of Positano home with you.
The Location
One of the biggest draws of Hotel Buca di Bacco is its unbeatable location. Just steps from Spiaggia Grande and the center of Positano, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the town on foot (up lots, and lots, and lots of stairs) or set off on a boat excursion along the coast. Whether you’re wandering through narrow alleyways lined with boutiques or catching a boat to Capri, everything feels within easy reach.
Why We Loved It
- Iconic setting right above Positano’s main beach with unmatched views
- Charming design, complete with colorful tiles and classic Mediterranean decor
- Unbeatable breakfast terrace — mornings here feel like a dream!
- Warm hospitality and attentive staff who make you feel at home
- Central location perfect for exploring Positano and the rest of the Amalfi Coast (and Capri!)
Our stay at Hotel Buca di Bacco was everything we hoped for on the Amalfi Coast: romantic, memorable, and perfectly situated. It’s the kind of place that lets you step straight into the postcard version of Positano, while still feeling personal and inviting. If you’re planning a trip to Positano, this hotel is one of those classic, can’t-go-wrong choices that will leave you longing to return.