Staying safe in Positano & the Amalfi Coast
Practical safety tips: buses, ferries, stairs, sun, and emergency contacts — what to know before you go.
Stairs & walking routes
Map routes with fewer steps (Chiesa Nuova or Sponda) and share loads between a backpack and a light trolley if you have knee concerns.
Pause on terrace walls or use compact trekking poles for longer climbs like the Path of the Gods.
Buses & ferries
Validate SITA tickets, hold the rail, and store bags in the luggage zone—blind curves mean sudden braking.
On ferries, keep valuables with you and follow crew instructions when stowing heavier suitcases.
Sea & sun
Check beach safety flags, wear water shoes on pebble beaches, and reapply reef-safe SPF after every swim.
Hydrate often: carry at least 1 litre (34 oz) per person on hot days and seek shade between midday and 15:00.
Belongings & contacts
Split cash/cards between bags and use hostel lockers or safes for passports and electronics.
Save emergency numbers (112 general, Coast Guard 1530) and local pharmacy hours offline in case signal drops.
Tips
- Tell a friend or the hostel desk your planned return time before long hikes and double-check the weather alert level.
- Carry a small torch for late-night stairways—some lanes have uneven lighting after midnight.
FAQs
Is tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Positano’s tap water is potable—refill bottles to reduce plastic and stay hydrated.
Are there areas to avoid at night?
The town is generally calm, but stick to lit routes and use taxis if you’re returning late from Amalfi, Sorrento, or Naples.