If you’re reading this, you might be facing a difficult, life-altering decision. The question is, should you stay in Positano or Praiano?
Positano is undoubtedly the most famous town along Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast. However, its neighbor, Praiano, is often overlooked. After spending some time in both towns, I recommend staying in Praiano over Positano. By doing this, you don’t have to sacrifice spending time in Positano, but you can save a bit of money on accommodation and have a more authentic experience.
However, these are just a few reasons why you should consider Praiano over Positano. In this post, I dive deeper into those reasons (and a few others) in hopes that you can decide if Praiano or Positano is right for you.
Rentals with a view are less expensive in Praiano
Booking a rental with iconic views on the Amalfi Coast is costly. However, comparing prices between the two towns, I found that rentals with ocean views are more budget-friendly in Praiano, especially when booked in advance. I have seen ocean view rentals for as low as $110 a night, but the most suitable places in ideal locations can be anywhere from $200 to $350 a night. They also offer more luxurious accommodations up to $800 a night, which could be fun to split if you are going with another family or a group. You can compare prices here.
Praiano feels more authentic than Positano
Praiano is quieter and has fewer tourists than Positano, so you receive a more authentic and relaxing experience. The restaurants were generally less busy (though I would still recommend making reservations), and the town’s people were much more talkative. We had many enriching conversations with locals who were happy to tell us more about their fantastic home, and we felt like we made a few friends.
The views in Praiano are just as great (maybe even better) than Positano
I adored the views in Praiano. The town is situated on a large bend, so your view will change depending on whether you are on that bend’s eastern or western side. From our rental in the prominent neighborhood of Vettica Maggiore, you could see the mountainous coastline all the way to the island of Capri, and you could also see the iconic, cascading homes of Positano.
You don’t have to sacrifice seeing Positano
Getting from Praiano to Positano (and vice versa) is accessible by bus. There is a station in Praiano’s main village, and the ride is about 20-30 minutes. So, planning to spend the day in Positano is entirely doable. You can buy the tickets when you get on the bus, and the schedule is posted at the bus stop and online.
Praiano has great food
No matter what Italian town you go to, you will find fantastic food. However, I want to assure you that the food in Praiano is also excellent. Some of my favorite restaurants were Ristorante Il Pino and Ristorante Il Pirata, but there are many restaurants in the area with over a 4-star rating on Google Reviews.
While you really can’t go wrong with either decision, the town of Praiano put an imprint on my heart, which you can read about in more detail here. When I think of the Amalfi Coast, I think of Praiano’s inviting, quaint nature, and I hope to return in the future.