Campania, Italy
TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre are main mobile operators in Italy. Good coverage across Positano and the Amalfi Coast, though some tunnels may have weaker signals.
Wi-Fi is widely available and generally reliable in hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, and cafes throughout Positano. Many public squares in larger towns also offer free Wi-Fi.
Post offices (Poste Italiane) are present in Positano for sending postcards or parcels. Look for the yellow "Poste Italiane" sign.
The official language is Italian. English is widely spoken in tourist-facing businesses in Positano. In smaller shops or less touristy areas, English may be less common.
The bill, please: Il conto, per favore (eel KON-toh, pair fah-VOH-reh)
Generally open 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, then close for a "riposo" (siesta), reopening 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Tourist shops, especially in summer, may stay open continuously or later.
Lunch service typically runs 12:30 PM/1:00 PM to 3:00 PM/3:30 PM. Dinner service starts later, 7:30 PM/8:00 PM to 10:30 PM/11:00 PM. Many close between lunch and dinner.
Open early for breakfast around 7:00 AM. Often close late, midnight or later for some, especially those with an evening atmosphere.
Banks typically open weekdays, usually from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM and sometimes a short afternoon session (e.g., 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM).
Italy observes several public holidays when banks, post offices, and many shops may be closed. Public transport may also operate on a reduced schedule.
Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues or holds. Always check local tourism calendars for precise dates and details of events.
Polite to greet shopkeepers and staff when entering a business and upon leaving. A friendly "Ciao" is common among younger people or in informal settings.
Italians tend to dress smartly. While tourists are common, avoid overly revealing or sloppy attire outside of beach areas.
Meals are meant for enjoyment at a relaxed pace. Do not expect hurried service. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service.
Generally acceptable to photograph public spaces and landmarks. Be discreet and respectful.
Coffee: Espresso is typically drunk quickly, standing at the bar. Cappuccinos are usually for breakfast only. Embracing these small cultural differences enriches your journey.
Positano presents significant accessibility challenges due to its unique topography. Travelers with mobility limitations should be aware of these difficulties.
Positano is built vertically into a steep cliffside, characterized by countless stairs, narrow, uneven paths, and winding, hilly streets.
Very few attractions are truly accessible without considerable effort. The town's natural layout makes widespread accessible infrastructure nearly impossible.
No specific dedicated services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are widely advertised or readily available in Positano.
Highly recommended for travelers with mobility needs to contact specific hotels or tour operators directly to discuss individual requirements.
For travelers with mobility challenges, planning meticulously and confirming accessibility directly with chosen accommodations and tour operators is useful for a smooth trip.