Stay in Positano or Sorrento?

Jane, Which place to stay will probably depend to some extent on what you plan to do in that area. Generally speaking, I agree that Sorrento is a better location, as there are more transportation options. Positano is only available by Bus or Boat, so it's not as convenient. Happy travels!

I'd definitely stay (and have stayed) in Sorrento, especially if you're planning to use public transportation. If you're just going to lounge around town, then Positano would be OK.

Another vote for Sorrento. My favorite place in Italy.

Sorrento would be my choice - and frequently is. Positano is indeed beautiful and you can get there easily by boat from Sorrento. Sorrento also makes connecting to Capri, Ischia, Pompeii etc much easier.

Loved Positano but once there, not much to do, would stay in Sorrento and can take bus or boat to Positano, it is worth it.

If you like to spend a lot of time on the beach. Having sun tan and doing nothing, than Positano will be the place. The beach in Sorrento is not near the town.

We stayed 4 nights in Sorrento and loved it! Parked our car at our hotel out on Via Capo and took bus to Positano and the boat back. We enjoyed Positano but it is very small. From Sorrento it is very easy to take the train to Pompeii and the hydrofoil to Capri. We will always remember being in Sorrento in July 2006 when Italy won the World Cup! What excitment that was!

If you want to lie on a beach in Sorrento, La Tonnarella and Hotel Desiree share a small private beach. But there's so many fun things to do in your short visit I don't think you'll have time for lying on a beach ;)

Do you plan to visit Pompeii? Much easier from Sorrento than Positano. Psitano s good for shopping or sun bathing, but if you want to go anywhere, Sorrento is more convenient. We just spent a week in Sorrento. Took the bus to Positano, had coffee, took pictures and returned.