Not overrated — but over-visited and overpriced
The town really is that beautiful. The problem isn't Positano — it's visiting on a crowded summer day, paying €40 for a beach lounger, and feeling like you're in a luxury theme park.
What lives up to the hype
The view from the coast road. The beach at sunset when the day-trippers leave. The boat ride approach from the sea. Dinner at a cliff-edge restaurant. These moments are genuinely world-class.
What disappoints
The beach is small and crowded. The streets are steep and exhausting. Everything costs 3x more than in Sorrento. The souvenir shops selling "Positano" branded lemon products are soulless. And in July–August, the charm is buried under crowds.
How to not be disappointed
Visit in May or October. Arrive by boat. Eat at Le Tre Sorelle or Da Vincenzo, not the tourist traps on the seafront. Stay in Praiano (next village, 50% cheaper, equally beautiful) instead. And lower your expectations for the beach — it's not the Caribbean.
Bottom line
Positano isn't overrated — it's over-Instagrammed. The reality is beautiful but requires effort and timing to enjoy. Go in shoulder season, by boat, and budget for the prices.