A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Positano for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arachova or Positano?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Positano, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Positano

Positano is a charming, picturesque, and colorful Mediterranean village. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Arachova and Positano: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Arachova or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Positano than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Positano is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing, museums, and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Also, Positano is famous for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Arachova different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Positano and Arachova. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Positano

Arachova is a good destination for skiing. However, Positano is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Positano is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Positano?

Arachova
Positano

Arachova is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Arachova. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Positano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Positano is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Positano

Arachova is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Arachova for the nightlife scene. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.


Is Arachova or Positano Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Positano offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is a Mediterranean village with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Positano has a few snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Positano has a beach worth visiting. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Arachova is not a beach destination.


Is Arachova or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Positano offers plenty to see. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Positano

Arachova and Positano are both places where visitors can find great hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Many visitors go to Positano for the hiking trails. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Positano?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Positano is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.


Is Arachova or Positano Better for Families?

Arachova
Positano

Arachova is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Arachova. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Couples?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Positano has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Arachova or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Positano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Positano

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Positano.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Positano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Arachova or Positano a more walkable city?

Arachova
Positano

Positano is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Positano on foot is easy. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Positano?

Both Arachova and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Arachova. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Couples should spend more time in Positano than Arachova. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Positano that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano than Arachova if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Positano.


  • How many days in Arachova or Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Arachova or Positano?

The town of Arachova offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Positano?

Arachova is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arachova, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Positano?

Arachova is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Positano?

Arachova is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Positano is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Positano or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Positano is €222. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Positano 148
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Positano 296
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Positano? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Positano


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Positano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Positano 7.73

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Positano:


  • Bus Ticket
    1.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Positano

Also for Positano, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amalfi and Positano cruise with transfer included: $94
  • Cozy Private Door-to-Door Transfer from Positano to Naples: $145
  • From Sorrento & Pompeii Private Tour w/ Transfers: $642
  • From Salerno Station: 1-Way Private Transfer to Positano: $266
  • From the Coast: Pompeii the Real All Inclusive Service(Guide,Transfer,Ticket): $257
  • Naples: Private Minivan Transfer to or from the Amalfi Coast: $123
  • Positano or Ravello to Naples airport/station private departure transfer: $176
  • Positano to Fiumicino Rome Airport (FCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $224
  • Positano to Napoli Airport (NAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Naples: $133
  • Private Transfer to Naples with WiFi: $214
  • Private Transfer to Sorrento, Rome or Naples: $79

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Positano 53

Typical Food Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Positano:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    31
  • Pizza in a Restaurant
    9.32
  • Sandwich in a Restaurant
    12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Positano

For Positano, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Gastronomical Amalfi Coast Hike with Cooking Class: $45
  • Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine: $64
  • Cooking lesson: tagliatelle, mozzarella and tiramisu: $76
  • Amalfi Coast Cooking Class: Pasta Mozzarella & Tiramisu with Wine: $88
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sant'Agnello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Sorrento Pizza School Activity in Italy: $98
  • Small Group Positano Cooking Class Gnocchi Tiramisù with Drinks : $147
  • Lemon & sea food cooking class at local's home: $169
  • Small Group Home Cooking Class with a Local: $191
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $191
  • Cesarine: Small group Pizza and Tiramisu Class in Positano: $195
  • Vico Equense: Market Tour, Home Cooking Class, and Dinner: $202

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Positano 60

Typical Entertainment Prices in Positano

For Positano, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Chair & Umbrella at Spiaggia Grande
    17
  • Day Trip of Capri & Amalfi
    80
  • Sunset Cruise
    24
  • Full Day Wine Tour
    97
  • Cooking Class
    65

Tours and Activities in Positano

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Positano.

  • From Sorrento: Positano Mini Cruise: $36
  • Positano Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $66
  • Sunset Tour Experience - Shared: $75
  • Amalfi Coast Sunset Group Boat Tour with Prosecco: $80
  • Golden Hour around Positano Sunset Group Cruise : $82
  • Unforgettable sunset tour in Positano: $87
  • From Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise - Group Tour: $97
  • Sunset Group Boat Tour from Positano or Praiano: $104
  • Full Day Amalfi Small Group Cruise from Positano : $104
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Archaeologist Guide: $106
  • Sunset Boat Cruise from Maiori: $106
  • Sunset Boat Cruise from Amalfi: $106

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Positano 15

Typical Alcohol Prices in Positano

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Positano:


  • Bottle of Limoncello
    16

Sample the Local Flavors in Positano

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Positano:

  • 5 Wine Tastings with Typical Products in Sorrento Coast: $76
  • Small Group Positano Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $108
  • Pompeii Wine Tasting Tour from Positano: $246


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Arachova much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arachova would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arachova and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano than you might in Arachova.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Positano Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Positano?

Arachova has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Positano, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arachova or Positano?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Arachova during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Positano. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Positano, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Positano. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Positano. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Positano 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Positano. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Arachova is a little warmer than Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Positano during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Positano. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Positano 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Positano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Positano. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Positano because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Arachova is a little warmer than Positano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Positano averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Positano. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Positano 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Positano. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Positano during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Positano. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Positano 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Positano and Arachova

Arachova Positano
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)