Hidden gems of the Amalfi Coast:

If you've scrolled a thousand Instagram posts of Positano and want the same Amalfi Coast magic without the crowd, meet Praiano — the understated, authentic gem tucked between Positano and Amalfi.

Praiano offers fantastic sea views, lovely beaches, quiet winding lanes, and a local atmosphere that feels more lived-in than.

Travel writers and guides repeatedly point to Praiano as a peaceful alternative to Positano; it's quieter, often more affordable, and ideal for travelers who want to trade showy glamour for genuine coastal life.

Why choose Praiano over Positano?

Positano is famous for its colorful cliffside houses and busy shopping streets — perfect if you want buzz and bright storefronts. Praiano's appeal is its slower tempo: fewer souvenir shops but still local, calmer beaches like La Gavitella and Marina di Praia, and a stronger sense of local rhythm. That translates to easier reservations, more direct contact with residents, and better value for accommodations and dining.

Top things that make Praiano a hidden gem:

• 1 Marina di Praia beach: a small pebble beach sheltered by cliffs — perfect for sunbathing and Boat Tour departures. A curiosity about this beach is the fact that Marina di Praia is party of two municipalities, from one side Praiano and from the other Furore.

• 2 Historic watchtowers & viewpoints:

  the Praiano's coast is characterised by its historical defensive towers like Torre a Mare, Assiola and Grado, truly amazing if watched from the sea. From the upper part of Praiano you can also start the Path of the Gods, to admire postcard panoramas of Capri and Positano.

• 3 Local festivals:

  this town is full of authentic cultural experiences where you can meet local people. Festivities like the Luminaria of San Domenico, one of the most iconic events in Praiano, held every summer from August 1st to 4th. The whole town, especially Piazza San Gennaro, is lit up with thousands of candles, lanterns, and torches, creating a magical atmosphere of light and tradition. The highlight is on August 4th, with fire performances, candle displays, and religious celebrations honoring Saint Dominic.

• 4 Churches:

  the most iconic one is the Church of San Gennaro located in the historic center of Praiano, Piazza San Gennaro. The Church was built in the 16th century, and it is famous for its colorful majolica-tiled facade and the typical charm of coastal villages. A must-to-do stop if you are in Praiano!

• 5 La Gavitella:

  for a true Amalfi Coast experience, combine sea-view dining with hands-on food culture: La Gavitella offers a restaurant, beach club and cooking classes where you can prepare classic Italian dishes like pizza, gelato, pasta and then enjoy them overlooking the sea.

Practical tips for travellers:

• Best time to go in Praiano, Amalfi Coast: late spring and early fall for warm weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting there: easy drive from Positano or Amalfi; bus connections exist but plan for stairs and cliffside roads. The best way is absolutely get around by ferry.
• Booking: reserve hotel, restaurants, boat experience and cooking classes in advance during June–Sept.

FAQ

1. Where is Praiano located on the Amalfi Coast?
Praiano is located in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, between Positano and Amalfi. Its central position makes it a strategic base for exploring the coast while enjoying a quieter, more authentic atmosphere.

2. Is Praiano less crowded than Positano?
Yes. Praiano is widely considered one of the quietest towns on the Amalfi Coast. Unlike Positano, it attracts fewer day-trippers and large tour groups, making it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and local life.

3. Is Praiano a good base for exploring the Amalfi Coast?
Absolutely. From Praiano you can easily reach Positano, Amalfi, Capri, and even Naples by ferry or local transport. It's also a starting point for the Path of the Gods hike, one of the most scenic trails in Italy.

4. What are the best beaches in Praiano?
The most popular beaches are Marina di Praia, a sheltered pebble beach perfect for swimming and boat tours, and La Gavitella, known for its sunny exposure until sunset and beautiful sea-view restaurant.

5. Can you take boat tours from Praiano?
Yes. Boat tours depart directly from Marina di Praia and nearby docks like La Gavitella, offering excursions along the coast, to Capri, or to hidden coves accessible only by sea. Praiano is an excellent choice for exploring the Amalfi Coast by boat.

6. Is Praiano suitable for couples in honeymoon?
Praiano is ideal for couples in honeymoon thanks to its romantic sunsets, sea-view accommodations, intimate restaurants, and peaceful vibe. It's less flashy than Positano but often considered more charming and authentic.

7. Is Praiano family-friendly?
Yes. Praiano is a good option for families looking for a calmer environment, fewer crowds, and easy access to beaches and local experiences such as cooking classes and boat trips.

8. How do you get to Praiano?
Praiano can be reached by car, bus, or ferry. While buses connect Praiano to Positano and Amalfi, many travelers prefer ferries during high season for comfort and scenic views. Be prepared for stairs and steep roads, typical of the Amalfi Coast.

9. What is the best time to visit Praiano?
The best time to visit Praiano is May–June and September–early October, when the weather is warm, the sea is pleasant, and crowds are lighter. July and August are livelier due to summer festivals and peak travel season.

10. Is Praiano more affordable than Positano?
In general, yes. Accommodation, dining, and activities in Praiano tend to offer better value compared to Positano, especially during high season, while still offering stunning views and high-quality experiences.

11. How many days should you stay in Praiano?
A stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal to enjoy Praiano itself while exploring nearby towns, beaches, and islands. Longer stays are perfect for travelers who prefer a slower pace.

12. Are there good restaurants in Praiano?
Yes. Praiano offers excellent restaurants serving seafood and traditional Italian cuisine, often with panoramic sea views. Places like La Gavitella combine dining with unique experiences such as cooking classes.

13. Do you need to book activities in advance in Praiano?
During peak season (June to September), it's highly recommended to book accommodations, restaurants, boat tours, and cooking experiences in advance to ensure availability.