Positano's photogenic charm: Beyond the Instagram filters
It has been one of the most popular beaches in the world for years. Photos taken here are almost guaranteed to garner thousands of likes. We investigated how the famous beach in the Italian town appears.
One of Instagram's trendiest beaches is in Positano, on the Amalfi Coast in Italy's Campania region.
Amalfi Coast
You can get there by train to Sorrento from Naples, followed by a bus journey. Costiera Amalfitana, a section of the coast on the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque corners of this country, which is why it attracts crowds of tourists all year round.
The UNESCO heritage-listed region stretches along the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, from Positano in the west to Vietri sul Mare in the east. The coast features a Mediterranean climate with warm summer months and mild winters.
The mountainous area offers breathtaking views. Colourful houses are built cascade-style on steep slopes, appearing as though they are glued to the rocky cliffs. The scene is truly picturesque.
Magical Positano
Although the region comprises as many as 13 towns, Positano is the true showcase of Costiera Amalfitana. It captivates even from the bus window, and in person, it feels as if stepping into a fairy tale.
However, many might be surprised by the sheer number of stairs and uphill walks. Good fitness is essential in this town. It's best to alight from the bus at the first stop and walk toward the beach. The setting is truly magical – surrounded by hills adorned with colourful houses.
For those who have only seen it on Instagram, the dark sand strewn with stones and the crowds present on the beach all year may be disappointing. Many people visit just to capture a photo—you simply need the right angle to make it appear as though the beach is empty. Visit in the evening for a quieter experience.
