A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Positano for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Positano?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Positano? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a impressive, spectacular, and iconic destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Positano

Positano is a stunning, luxurious, and charming Mediterranean village. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cape Sounion and Positano: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Cape Sounion or Positano?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Positano. Although Cape Sounion and Positano are popular destinations, Positano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Positano is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cape Sounion attracts visitors for its museums. Positano is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also well known for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Cape Sounion is famous for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Positano?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Cape Sounion is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Both Cape Sounion and Positano have reasonable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cape Sounion. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Positano is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Resorts?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Positano

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cape Sounion and Positano are nice choices.

Cape Sounion is a good option for a beach vacation. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Many people head to Positano to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Positano has a world-famous historical area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.


Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Hiking?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Positano. 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.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Positano?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Positano.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Positano. 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 Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Cape Sounion and Positano are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cape Sounion. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

Positano is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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

Cape Sounion
Positano

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cape Sounion and Positano.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

You'll find some public transit in Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.


Is Cape Sounion or Positano a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Positano

Positano is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Positano?

Both Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cape Sounion, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Families should spend more time in Positano than Cape Sounion. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Positano, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Positano than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Cape Sounion or Positano?

The destination of Cape Sounion offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Positano?

Cape Sounion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this destination makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Sounion, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Cape Sounion or Positano?

Cape Sounion is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cape Sounion or Positano?

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Positano is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Positano or Cape Sounion?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, 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 Cape Sounion and Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Positano 148
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Positano 296
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion


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.
    Cape Sounion 26
    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:

  • private transfer from Sorrento to Naples: $262
  • private transfer from Positano to Naples or reverse: $81
  • private transfer from POSITANO to NAPLES: $109
  • Transfer to Naples with a stop in Pompeii from Positano: $196
  • Transfer from Positano to The Path of the Gods: $109
  • Transfer from Naples to Positano or Positano to Naples : $240
  • Transfer from Naples to Positano : $204
  • Transfer Positano to Naples: $87
  • Transfer Naples - Positano: $273
  • Shared Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport: $52
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples by the scenic coast: $109
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples : $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano and Cape Sounion 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
    Cape Sounion 41
    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:

  • Dinner on the farm: $55
  • Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine: $64
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sant'Agnello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Gluten Free Cooking School: $108
  • Pizza e Tiramisù class with local mum in Positano: $136
  • 3 Hours Sorrento Cooking Class in Sorrento Coast with Pickup: $142
  • 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: $201

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    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.

  • Amalfi Coast Premium Boat Tour From Sorrento Max 8 People: $244
  • Amalfi Coast Private Half Day Tour from Positano/Praiano: $1,352
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: $272
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $1,279
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $2,131
  • Amalfi Coast: Path of the Gods Private Walking Tour: $133
  • Amalfi Coast: Pompei & Vesuvius small group with Skip the line tickets: $147
  • Amalfi Coast: Romantic Sunset Cruise with Music & Cocktails: $159
  • Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour: $208
  • Amalfi coast day tour from Positano: $299
  • Breathtaking Journey on the Path of Gods: Tour from Positano: $2,048
  • Capri All Inclusive Small Group Tour from Positano: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    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: $245
  • Pompeii Guided Tour With Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $250
  • Pompeii Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $272


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Sounion and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Cape Sounion much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cape Sounion would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion.

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


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Positano?

Positano has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Positano?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Positano. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Positano in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Positano during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Positano. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Positano. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In the autumn, Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Positano. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Sounion in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Positano averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Positano. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Positano. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 10°C (51°F), and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Positano during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Positano. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Cape Sounion during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Positano in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Positano. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Positano and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion 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)