Positano is known for its iconic cliffside beauty, romantic restaurants, and luxurious hotels, but it’s also home to some truly unforgettable bars. Whether you’re looking for a glamorous rooftop, a chic cocktail bar with ocean views, or a more relaxed aperitivo spot, this Amalfi Coast town delivers. Below, we’ve rounded up the best bars in Positano Italy for tasty cocktails, beautiful sunsets, and unforgettable evenings.
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Il Tridente Cocktail Bar (Hotel Poseidon)
Perched above Positano with sweeping views of the sea and rooftops below, Il Tridente Cocktail Bar offers one of the most iconic settings in town. Located at Hotel Poseidon, this stylish cocktail bar is both refined and relaxed, making it perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a sunset nightcap. Every order also includes a generous aperitivo plate of olives, taralli crackers, and small bites to enjoy with the view. To secure a front-row seat for golden hour, make a reservation in advance and arrive 30 minutes before sunset. Cocktails are on the pricey side, though generally not quite to the level of Instagram-favorite Franco’s. Il Tridente’s breezy, flower-lined terrace perfectly captures the essence of Positano. It has certainly earned its place as one of the best bars in Positano Italy.
Aldo’s Cocktail Bar (Le Sirenuse)
Set inside the legendary Le Sirenuse hotel, Aldo’s Cocktail Bar is one of the most elegant places to enjoy a drink in Positano. This upscale cocktail bar offers an extensive wine list, creative drinks, and a view featured in countless travel magazines. The interiors are chic and timeless, while the terrace offers prime sunset vistas over the church dome and coastline. Aldo’s is managed by the same ownership group behind Franco’s Bar and offers an extremely similar view of the city. However, unlike its more famous sibling, Aldo’s offers reservations in advance. Expect world-class service and prices to match, but it’s a splurge-worthy stop that lives up to the hype. For a luxurious evening in Positano, Aldo’s is hard to beat.
RED – Cocktail & Champagne Terrace (Hotel Marincanto)
Tucked into the hillside at Hotel Marincanto, RED Cocktail & Champagne Terrace is an intimate cocktail and champagne terrace with panoramic views of the sea. We stumbled upon this lesser-known spot during our recent trip to Positano, and it quickly became one of our favorite finds. New this year, RED offers some of the most breathtaking viewsthat you will find anywhere in Positano. It’s a great spot for couples or small groups looking to enjoy a quieter cocktail bar experience. The hotel frequently features a pianist playing live music in the evenings, adding to the already romantic ambiance. The menu includes classic Italian spritzes, premium champagne, and refreshing seasonal cocktails. With limited seating and a romantic vibe, RED is a hidden gem among the best bars in Positano Italy.
The Terrace Bar @ Il San Pietro Hotel
If you’re looking for luxury with a side of serenity, the Terrace Bar at Il San Pietro delivers. This exclusive cocktail bar is part of Il San Pietro di Positano, one of the Amalfi Coast’s most prestigious hotels. The terrace is tucked into a cliffside garden and feels like a secret escape from the busier parts of town. It’s the perfect place for a quiet aperitivo before dinner, complete with impeccable service and jaw-dropping views. Every detail here is thoughtful, from the custom glassware to the handcrafted cocktails made with local ingredients.
Franco’s Bar
Franco’s Bar is a favorite among travelers (and Instagram influencers), thanks to its vibrant energy and unbeatable location. Situated right next to Aldo’s at Le Sirenuse hotel, this lively cocktail bar draws a stylish crowd and serves expertly made drinks in a chic, open-air setting. Come early to snag a front-row seat, as the bar opens at 5:30 PM and often fills up quickly. Colorful tiles, a curated playlist, and buzzing energy make it a top spot to watch the sun set over Positano. Franco’s is one of the most expensive bars in town, but also one of the most iconic. It’s fun, photogenic, and deserves its spot among the best bars in Positano Italy.
L’Alternativa
L’Alternativa is a more casual cocktail bar and beach club that brings laid-back charm to Positano’s bar scene. Located right by Positano’s main beach, it’s an ideal spot for a daytime drink or a relaxed aperitivo. The cocktails here are refreshing and simple, and the vibe is youthful without being over-the-top. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to enjoy a spritz without the white-tablecloth vibe of some of Positano’s other cocktail bars. Even better, prices here are a fraction of what you’ll find at the more luxurious spots on this list, making it one of the best budget-friendly bars in Positano. Plus, it’s open throughout the day, making it a versatile option for beachgoers and early evening sippers alike.
Music on the Rocks
For those looking to keep the night going, Music on the Rocks is Positano’s go-to late-night destination. This unique venue is set in a cave, carved directly into the cliffside at the eastern edge of Spiaggia Grande. It combines natural stone walls with club lighting and pulsing music. It’s technically more of a nightclub than a cocktail bar, but it still deserves a spot on this list. Here, DJs spin everything from international hits to Italian dance anthems, and energy stays high until the early morning hours. However, before you go, be aware that the venue charges a cover fee (up to €50 on weekends) to enter. Nevertheless, if you’re in the mood to dance the night away after sunset cocktails, this is where the party continues.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sipping spritzes on a quiet terrace or dancing in a cave by the sea, Positano offers an unforgettable bar scene. From upscale cocktail lounges with sweeping views to budget-friendly beach spots and lively nightclubs, there’s truly something for everyone. Each venue brings its own charm, whether through panoramic vistas, live music, or creative drinks. No matter your vibe, sunset cocktails in Positano are always a good idea. Cheers to discovering your favorite spot!
If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast and want help putting together the perfect itinerary, we’d love to help. As travel specialists, we can create a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests, style, and budget, so you can spend less time stressing and more time exploring. Reach out to start planning your dream trip today!
Hungry for more Positano tips? Be sure to check out our full Positano trip report from our recent trip to Italy, our guide to the best restaurants in Positano, and our roundup of the best hotels in Positano.
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