Rain in Positano doesn’t mean your trip is spoiled — it simply changes the rhythm. The streets grow quieter, colors deepen against the grey sky, and the town reveals a softer side that many visitors miss. With the right mindset, a rainy day can turn into one of the most memorable parts of your stay. Here are 17 things to do on a rainy day in Positano or … 17 ways to enjoy Positano when the sun takes a break.
Rain doesn’t stop the charm of Positano — it makes wandering the narrow streets more peaceful. You can explore the boutiques, cafés, and hidden corners without the usual crowds, noticing details that often go unseen.
When the weather turns grey, slip into the heart of Positano at the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. The first thing you notice is the colorful tiled dome outside, gleaming even on a rainy day. Inside, it’s calm and cool, with flickering candles and the famous Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna. It’s a quiet break from the busy streets and a chance to sit, look around, and feel the atmosphere of this landmark that has watched over Positano for centuries.
Step into a different world at galleries like Miniaci Art Gallery. The works here carry a Mediterranean touch that feels unlike what you’d find back home. Bright colors, bold shapes, and local themes fill the walls, making it a quiet but inspiring escape. You don’t need to be an art collector to enjoy it — just walk through slowly, look closely, and let the creativity of Positano’s artists draw you in.
The shops in Positano are less crowded than usual, so you can browse at your own pace. It’s easier to see the details of handmade ceramics, leather sandals, and colorful textiles, and to discover unique items you might miss in the summer bustle.
If the weather clears in Naples or nearby towns, it’s worth heading out.
Learning to make local dishes is rewarding and hands-on. You get to taste authentic flavors, pick up practical skills, and take a piece of Positano home with you in the form of recipes and memories.
With no need to rush from one sight to the next, you can linger over a meal or coffee. Find a cozy café with a view, enjoy Italian pastries, and let the flavors and atmosphere soak in — it’s a simple way to experience Positano fully and one of our favorite things to do on a rainy day in Positano.
You’ve arrived in the place you’ve dreamed of — the weather can’t change that. Let yourself laugh, twirl, and enjoy the moment; sometimes the best memories are made in puddles.
The streets are quieter, the colors richer, and reflections in puddles add a new dimension to every corner. Rain gives Positano a mood all its own, perfect for unique and memorable shots. If you’re a keen photographer this surely will be one of the best things to do on a rainy day in Positano.
A great hotel can turn a grey day into a treat. Comfortable rooms, a spa, or a terrace with a view give you reasons to relax indoors, and little joys — like playing Scrabble while looking out over the sea — make the day feel special.
Pick up treats from a local chocolate shop, then find a cozy spot with a view — a hotel lounge or covered terrace works perfectly. Enjoy your sweets while watching the rain, turning a simple snack into a little moment of luxury.
Staying in the right spot with the comforts you love, is key to any memorable vacation. If you’re traveling in the shoulder seasons, especially.
Even in the rain, a bright, refreshing drink lifts the mood. Enjoy the classic Italian flavors while watching Positano glimmer under a soft drizzle — simple, cheerful, and unmistakably local.
The perfect thing to do on a rainy day in Positano:
Positano has a collection of tiny cafés where each visit feels different. Order a café latte, sample a fresh pastry, or try a local sweet like cannoli. Move from one cozy spot to the next, letting the aromas, flavors, and gentle chatter of the town carry you through the day. It’s a slow, indulgent way to experience Positano beyond the streets and shops.
It might sound ordinary, but wandering a Positano grocery store is surprisingly revealing. You see what locals eat, discover seasonal produce, and marvel at the endless varieties of pasta. It’s a small, everyday glimpse into Italian life that can feel both charming and enlightening. The perfect activity if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation, finding home made meal for the night.
▲ Find your perfect Italian restaurant—click & go!
If you’re curious about ancient Roman artifacts, this museum has some interesting pieces. It’s small, so it won’t take hours, and it gives a glimpse into the history behind the region. Worth a quick visit (TripAdvisor reviews) if you enjoy seeing how the past shaped the area, but not a must for everyone.
While Positano itself doesn’t have traditional vineyards, it offers unique wine experiences that capture the essence of the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
Housed in a beautifully restored medieval vault in the heart of Positano, The Cellar offers an exclusive wine tasting experience. Guests can enjoy a curated selection of local and international wines, complemented by appetizers, in a setting that blends historical charm with modern elegance.
Opened in 2019, this wine room allows visitors to taste over 40 wines by the glass, including selections from Campania and beyond. It’s a great spot to sample local wines and purchase bottles to take home.
It might not sound like one of your bucket list things to do on a rainy day in Positano, but think about it – it’s the perfect opportunity, and the perfect excuse. LOL – But seriously: Recharge your energy now so you can enjoy the evening to the fullest. A short rest means you’ll be ready for dinner, drinks, or dancing later — no rain can ruin a well-timed nap.
IN CONCLUSION: Rain or shine, Positano has a certain charm. Rainy days invite you to notice the details: the smell of coffee drifting from a café, the glow of candles in a church, the quiet of streets usually packed with visitors. These simple moments often stay with you longer than the picture-perfect postcard photos, which many have on their bucket lists. A rainy day in Positano isn’t a setback; it’s an invitation to experience the town in a different, more intimate way.
