A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Positano vs. Imperia for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Positano or Imperia?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Positano and Imperia. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Positano

Positano is a stunning, luxurious, and charming Mediterranean village. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Positano or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Positano. Although Positano and Imperia are popular destinations, Positano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Positano is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Imperia attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Imperia and is popular 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. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Positano different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Positano
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Positano or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Positano
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia has a few options to choose from. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable 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 Positano or Imperia Better for Resorts?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Positano or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a moderate Mediterranean village for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Positano or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Positano or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Positano can be explored in its historical center. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is Positano or Imperia Better for Hiking?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Positano or Imperia?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Positano or Imperia Better for Families?

Positano
Imperia

Both Positano and Imperia are nice family-friendly destinations.

Positano offers lots of family activities. 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly place to visit. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Positano or Imperia Better for Couples?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Positano or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Positano
Imperia

For backpackers, both Positano and Imperia are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Positano
Imperia

Positano and Imperia both offer nice public transit to get you around.

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.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Positano or Imperia a more walkable city?

Positano
Imperia

Positano is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Positano?

How long in Positano or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Positano or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Positano than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Positano, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano than Imperia 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 Positano or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Positano 2-7 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Positano or Imperia?

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This Mediterranean village offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Imperia 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.

A weekend in Positano or Imperia?

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer.

Imperia 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Imperia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Positano or Imperia?

Positano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Imperia 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.

A week in Positano or Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Imperia 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 town offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Positano?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Positano is €222, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. 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 Positano and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Positano 148
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Positano 296
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Positano and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Positano or Imperia? 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 Positano


Hotels in Imperia


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 and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Positano 7.73
    Imperia 36
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:

  • Shared Transfer from Sorrento to Naples Airport: $41
  • Positano to Napoli Airport (NAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Shared Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport: $52
  • Shuttle shared transfer to Naples: $53
  • Private Transfer to Sorrento, Rome or Naples: $79
  • Private Transfer: From Positano to Sorrento with hotel pick-up and drop-off: $80
  • private transfer from Positano to Naples or reverse: $81
  • Transfer Positano to Naples: $87
  • Amalfi and Positano cruise with transfer included: $94
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Sorrento Hotels: $95
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Naples: $108
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Naples: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Positano or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Positano 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
    Positano 53
    Imperia 35
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: $54
  • Tasting Pizza on "The Roof Terrace" with all you can eat formula: $81
  • 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
  • 3 Hours Sorrento Cooking Class in Sorrento Coast with Pickup: $141
  • Small Group Positano Cooking Class Gnocchi Tiramisù with Drinks : $146
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Sant'Agnello: $158
  • Lemon & sea food cooking class at local's home: $169
  • Small Group Home Cooking Class with a Local: $190
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $190
  • Vico Equense: Market Tour, Home Cooking Class, and Dinner: $201

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Positano 60
    Imperia 13
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.

  • Unforgettable sunset tour in Positano: $54
  • Guided tour of the history and tradition of the Sorrento lemon: $54
  • Sunset Tour Experience - Shared: $74
  • Small Group Tour to Positano by Boat at Sunset: $76
  • Golden Hour around Positano Sunset Group Cruise : $81
  • Positano Swim Experience with Lifeguard: $93
  • From Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise - Group Tour: $96
  • Full Day Amalfi Small Group Cruise from Positano : $103
  • Sunset Group Boat Tour from Positano or Praiano: $103
  • Small Group Tour to Positano by Boat at Sunset: $103
  • Sunset Boat Cruise from Amalfi: $105
  • Sunset Boat Cruise from Maiori: $105

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Positano 15
    Imperia 7.50
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:

  • Organic Wine Tasting with Mozzarella and Gnocchi workshop: $71
  • 5 Wine Tastings with Typical Products in Sorrento Coast: $76
  • Private Food and Wine Tasting on the Sorrento Coast: $109
  • Pompeii Wine Tasting Tour from Positano: $245
  • Pompeii Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $271


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

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


Which is Bigger, Positano or Imperia?

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

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 Positano or Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Positano during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences.

Positano is around the same temperature as Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Positano averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Positano. In the summer, Positano often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Positano gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Positano usually gets more rain in July than Imperia. Positano gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Positano 23°C (74°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Positano or Imperia in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Positano is cooler than Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Positano in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Positano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during autumn. Positano gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Positano usually receives more rain than Imperia. Positano gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Positano 17°C (63°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Positano or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Positano as well as Imperia. Many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Positano is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Positano average around 8°C (47°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Positano often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Positano gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the winter. Positano usually gets more rain in January than Imperia. Positano gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Positano 8°C (47°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Positano or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Positano are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Imperia because of the natural beauty.

Positano is cooler than Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Positano averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Positano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during spring. Positano gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Positano usually receives more rain than Imperia. Positano gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Positano 13°C (55°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Positano

Positano Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)