We are planning on using Sorrento as a base for sightseeing in Naples, Pompeii, and Herculaneum. We would also like to see more of the Amalfi Coast. In your opinion, is it worth the effort to spend 2-3 nights in Positano as opposed to staying put in Sorrento?
I know there is no right or wrong answer, just seeking opinions.
Thanks
It depends on how many nights you have in total, and how you feel about changing bases. I think it is worthwhile to enjoy a different place at night (as the bus and ferry would not allow you to enjoy dinner). The bus can be crowded, and I don't like long day trips, so that would inform my choice. However, I would split the time between Naples and the AC.
Sorrento is much better as a transportation hub, especially for Pompeii and Herculaneum.
My wife and I stayed in Sorrento and visited Pompeii. When my daughter and her husband went to Italy they stayed in Positano as he wanted some "down time." ( I think they skipped Pompeii)
A combination sounds like it would work well. Sorrento was very easy for transportation to other places. The commuter train stops right at Pompeii’s entrance. We did a day trip to the AC but if you have an interest in it, then stay a few nights. We liked Ravello best, out of the fray, and could see us staying there sometime.
Early last November, my wife & I spent 2 nights in Sorrento, 2 nights in Positano & 2 nights in Amalfi. The ferries were not operating on schedule due to season & weather. We did not travel to Pompeii from Sorrento as planned due to crowds & pick-pockets on Circumvesuviana train - once was enough. Found lots to see and do (including some really good restaurants) to justify 3 or 4 nights on next trip. Enjoyed Positano but a lot of town was shut or shutting down. Recommend a day trip if in late fall or early spring. Hiking was limited most places due to rainy conditions. However, up & down the hilly towns provided plenty of exercise. Amalfi was open and active. Next trip, we will stay for 4 nights in Amalfi with day trips to Positano & again to Ravello.
Our time, the week between Christmas 2012 and New Year’s 2013, was spent staying in Sorrento (actually Piano di Sorrento), visiting locations by our rental car and by train. We drove the Amalfi coast twice in that time, as well as Naples, Pompeii, and Herculaneum.
Sorrento was also the ideal jumping off point for a day trip to the isle of Capri.
Is there a way you could spend two or three nights in each location? As others mentioned, Sorrento has better transportation options which would allow you to easily visit Pompeii, Herculaneum, Naples or Mt. Vesuvius. Positano is smaller and quieter but it's a good base to visit Ravello or Capri. Both cities have their unique charms, so seeing two places would be more interesting for me.
