A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inverness vs. Positano for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Inverness or Positano?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Positano can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a historic, cultural, and traditional city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a luxurious, charming, and picturesque Mediterranean village. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Inverness and Positano: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Inverness or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Positano. Although Inverness and Positano are both popular with visitors, Positano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Inverness is known for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Inverness and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also home to The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Inverness is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

How is Inverness different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Inverness
Positano

Inverness is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Inverness. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Inverness
Positano

Positano is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Positano has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Inverness has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Is Inverness or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Positano

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

If you're looking for night time activities Inverness has a few options to choose from. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

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 Inverness or Positano Better for Resorts?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is terrific for its resorts. However, Inverness is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Positano is a perfect choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Inverness is not a resort destination.


Is Inverness or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is a moderate Mediterranean village for its diving and snorkeling. However, Inverness is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Inverness is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Inverness or Positano Better for Beaches?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is very good for the beache. However, Inverness is not a beach destination.

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.

Inverness is not a beach destination.

Is Inverness or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is terrific for its old town. However, Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Positano has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.


Is Inverness or Positano Better for Hiking?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Positano is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Positano?

Inverness
Positano

Both Inverness and Positano are high quality shopping destinations.

Inverness is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

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.

Is Inverness or Positano Better for Families?

Inverness
Positano

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Inverness or Positano.

Inverness is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Positano is a family-friendly city. 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 Inverness or Positano Better for Couples?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Positano has plenty to offer. 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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Is Inverness or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is very good for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for 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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

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

Inverness
Positano

Positano is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.


Is Inverness or Positano a more walkable city?

Inverness
Positano

Positano is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Inverness is a very walkable destination. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Positano?

Both Inverness 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 Inverness. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Families should spend more time in Positano than Inverness. 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 Inverness. 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Inverness or Positano?

The city of Inverness offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Inverness or Positano?

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

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this Mediterranean village has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Inverness or Positano?

Inverness 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 small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Mediterranean village has to offer.

A week in Inverness or Positano?

Inverness is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Positano or Inverness?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Positano is £190. 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 Inverness and Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Positano £126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Positano £252
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Inverness 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 Inverness


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Positano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Positano £6.62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Positano

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


  • Bus Ticket
    £1.37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Positano

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

  • Shared Transfer from Sorrento to Naples Airport: $41
  • Positano to Napoli Airport (NAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Shared Shuttle Transfer to Naples Train Station: $53
  • Private Transfer to Sorrento, Rome or Naples: $79
  • private transfer from Positano to Naples or reverse: $82
  • Amalfi and Positano cruise with transfer included: $94
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Sorrento Hotels: $95
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Naples: $109
  • private transfer from POSITANO to NAPLES: $109
  • Private Transfer Naples Positano or Praiano or vice versa, Via Pompei or Cantina: $112
  • Private direct transfer from Bomerano to Naples with local driver: $117
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples : $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Inverness or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Positano £45

Typical Food Prices in Positano

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


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    £26
  • Pizza in a Restaurant
    £7.97
  • Sandwich in a Restaurant
    £11

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.
    Inverness £44
    Positano £52

Tours and Activities in Inverness

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Inverness are as follows:

  • 1-Day Moray Coast Tour with Speyside Whisky from Inverness: $97
  • 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles: $191
  • 2-Hour Private Celtic Handfasting Ceremony Experience: $108
  • 25 Shot Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience: $63
  • Applecross, Loch Carron & Wild Highlands Tour from Inverness: $69
  • Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour: $164
  • Chauffeur driven sightseeing Edinburgh to & from Inverness: $1,000
  • Clan Tour - Castle ,Whisky and History Tour: $172
  • Craigs Luxury Speyside Private Whisky Tour: $686
  • Day tour to Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools from Inverness: $126
  • From Cairngorms National Park and Whisky Tour: $76
  • From Glen Affric, Culloden and Clava Cairns Tour: $73

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
    £15
  • Day Trip of Capri & Amalfi
    £68
  • Sunset Cruise
    £21
  • Full Day Wine Tour
    £83
  • Cooking Class
    £56

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
    Inverness £23
    Positano £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

Also in Inverness, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124

Typical Alcohol Prices in Positano

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


  • Bottle of Limoncello
    £13

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 comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Positano?

Inverness has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Inverness 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Positano in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Positano. Many visitors come to Inverness in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Inverness is much colder than Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Inverness in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Positano. In the summer, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Positano. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets more rain in July than Positano. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Inverness 14°C (58°F) 
    Positano 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Inverness for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Positano because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Inverness is generally much colder than Positano. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 9°C (49°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Positano during autumn. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In October, Inverness usually receives less rain than Positano. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Positano 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Inverness during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Inverness because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

The weather in Inverness can be very cold. Inverness is much colder than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Positano. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Inverness usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Inverness 3°C (38°F) 
    Positano 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Positano in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Positano. The small town charm are the main draw to Inverness this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Inverness is much colder than Positano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Inverness in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Positano averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Positano during spring. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Inverness usually receives less rain than Positano. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Positano 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Positano and Inverness

Inverness Positano
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)