In Italy, Positano is celebrated for its beauty and popularity. Visiting Positano can be a great experience for every person.
You can see a lot of hidden gems in Positano and if you want to see them all then you must definitely stay at least 3-4 days. Planning to stay in Positano art hotels? This guide was made for you.
For this guide, I’ve carefully selected six properties that truly embody the art hotel concept.
My criteria? Each needed to demonstrate exceptional artistic merit, prime location, outstanding guest experiences, and that ineffable quality of authentic Italian cultural immersion that you simply can’t fake.
Il San Pietro di Positano – Best for Nature Lover
Location: Via Laurito, 2, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: www.ilsanpietro.it
Atmosphere
Carved into the cliffside about a mile outside Positano’s center, this place isn’t just a hotel — it’s a masterpiece of integration between architecture and landscape that’s been carefully refined since it opened in 1970.
What makes Il San Pietro special is how the artistic vision extends beyond traditional artwork.
The late owner, Carlino Cinque, had this remarkable philosophy that the hotel itself should be “invisible” from the sea, completely harmonizing with the cliffs.
The result? A vertical property where each of the 57 rooms has been individually designed to frame the sea views like living paintings.
During my stay, I discovered that much of the ceramic work throughout the property comes from the owner’s personal collection of Vietri ceramics, some pieces dating back centuries!
The lobby features rotating exhibitions of contemporary Italian artists, but honestly, the most breathtaking gallery might be the hotel’s terraced gardens.
They’ve somehow created these gorgeous landscaped areas that cascade down the cliff, with Mediterranean plants arranged in an artistic composition that changes with the seasons.
One morning, I took advantage of their artist workshop and tried my hand at watercolor painting on their seaside deck. My artistic skills are questionable at best, but having a local artist gently guide me through capturing the iconic Positano view was an experience I’ll never forget! My painting definitely won’t be hanging in any galleries, but it’s one of my favorite souvenirs.
Price and Service
From €6,560 per night (excluding taxes and fees), the Prestige Room offers 85 sqm (914 sq ft) of luxury with a king-size bed, large living room, walk-in shower, bathtub, and a private terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.
Amenities include a complimentary minibar, coffee machine, fast Wi-Fi, and daily buffet breakfast.
Perfect for travelers seeking privacy, space, and stunning views—it’s a true luxury escape.
However, the high price may not suit those planning to spend most of their time outside the hotel.
Nearby Attractions
- Private beach accessible by elevator carved through the cliff
- Laurito Beach (10-minute walk)
- Da Adolfo beach restaurant (accessible by boat)
- Path of the Gods trailhead (15-minute drive)
- Arienzo Beach Club (nearby by boat)
Facilities
- Private beach and dock
- Michelin-starred restaurant “Zass”
- Seaside restaurant “Carlino”
- Terraced gardens with art installations
- Swimming pool overlooking the sea
- Spa with local artistic treatments
- Tennis court
- Complimentary shuttle to Positano center
- Artist workshops and studios
- Curated art library
Casa Buonocore – Boutique Art Immersion in the Heart of Positano
Location: Via Cristoforo Colombo, 77, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: www.casabuonocore.com
Atmosphere
When I first stumbled upon Casa Buonocore, it felt like discovering a secret art gallery disguised as an intimate guesthouse.
Located right in the heart of Positano, just a short (though steep!) walk from the main beach, this boutique property with only six rooms offers an intensely personal art experience that larger hotels simply can’t match.
What impressed me most about Casa Buonocore was the owner’s commitment to showcasing local Amalfi Coast artists.
Unlike some properties that import artwork from major cities, each room features pieces created within a few miles of Positano.
During my stay, I became particularly enchanted with a series of abstract paintings inspired by the movement of the sea — created by an artist who lives just up the hill in Montepertuso.
My room featured this gorgeous play of natural light that made the artwork look completely different at sunrise compared to sunset.
The management explained this was entirely intentional; the room had been designed around the art, not the other way around.
One of my favorite memories was enjoying their breakfast on the terrace surrounded by sculptural pieces made from driftwood collected from Positano’s beaches.
The owner, Marco, joined me one morning and shared stories about each artist represented in the hotel.
His passion was infectious, and he even arranged for me to visit a ceramic artist’s studio in nearby Praiano!
What makes Casa Buonocore special is that you’re not just surrounded by art — you’re living inside it. The hand-sewn linens, custom furniture, and even the breakfast dishes are all created by local artisans.
Price and Service
Casa Buonocore offers exceptional value compared to some of Positano’s larger luxury properties.
Rooms range from €280-€550 depending on the season, with significant discounts available for longer stays.
Their “Artist’s Package” includes a guided tour of local studios and is worth the small additional cost.
Nearby Attractions
- Spiaggia Grande (main beach) – 5-minute walk
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta
- Fornillo Beach – 10-minute walk
- Local artisan workshops – scattered throughout nearby streets
- Franco’s Bar – 7-minute walk
Facilities
- Art-focused library with rare books on Amalfi Coast art history
- Panoramic breakfast terrace with rotating sculpture exhibition
- Custom-designed art maps of Positano
- In-room art portfolios with information on each piece
- Arrangements for private studio visits with local artists
- Complimentary art aperitivo with the owner (weekly)
- Art concierge services
- Personal art shopping assistance
Villa Franca – Contemporary Art in a Classical Setting
Location: Viale Pasitea, 318, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: www.villafrancahotel.it
Atmosphere
When I first walked into Villa Franca, I was struck by the most delightful contradiction — classic, whitewashed Positano architecture serving as a canvas for some seriously bold contemporary art.
Positioned in the upper part of town with panoramic views that have to be seen to be believed, this hotel masterfully bridges traditional Amalfi Coast aesthetics with modern artistic expression.
I discovered that Villa Franca functions almost like a contemporary gallery with rooms attached.
The lobby rotates exhibitions quarterly, featuring everything from emerging Italian photographers to established European sculptors.
What’s really special is that all the art is available for purchase — I was sorely tempted by a striking black and white photograph of Positano’s beach from an angle I’d never seen before!
One of my absolute favorite experiences was participating in their artist-in-residence program.
The food at Villa Franca deserves special mention for its artistic presentation.
Their rooftop restaurant, Li Galli, serves dishes that are literally edible art installations.
I still remember a seafood appetizer arranged to mirror the colors and composition of a famous painting of the Amalfi Coast that hangs in their lobby.
Price and Service
Prices for the HVF Classic Room range from €700 to €2,000 per night, depending on the season and availability.
With only two rooms available, this 19–21 sqm (204–226 sqft) space offers a cozy yet refined stay.
It features a king-size bed, a private balcony with partial views of Positano, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a combined bath and shower, satellite TV, a hairdryer, a safe, complimentary minibar, and a Nespresso machine.
Guests also enjoy a variety of perks including homemade breakfast, access to the rooftop pool and solarium, gym sessions with a personal trainer, a fixed-time shuttle service, a welcome drink, an in-room amenity on arrival, and a farewell gift. City tax is not included.
Nearby Attractions
- Positano Art Gallery – 5-minute walk
- Ceramic Museum – 10-minute walk
- Path of the Gods access point – 15-minute walk
- Positano Interior – charming neighborhood streets just behind hotel
- Fornillo viewpoint – 7-minute walk
Facilities
- Rooftop infinity pool with artistic mosaic bottom
- Li Galli Restaurant featuring art-inspired cuisine
- Contemporary art gallery space with rotating exhibitions
- Artist-in-residence studio (open to guests during specific hours)
- “Art Aperitivo” events on the rooftop terrace
- Wellness center with art therapy sessions
- Professionally curated art tours of the Amalfi Coast
- Professional photography services
Art Hotel Pasitea – The Original Positano Gallery Hotel
Location: Via Pasitea, 207, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: www.arthotelpasitea.it
Atmosphere
When it comes to Positano’s art hotel scene, Art Hotel Pasitea deserves serious respect as the trailblazer that started the trend.
I remember my first visit years ago, when the concept of a hotel doubling as an art gallery was still relatively novel in the area.
While some newer properties might have more polish, there’s something authentically special about staying in the place that pioneered the movement.
What makes Pasitea unique is that art isn’t just in designated areas — the entire property functions as exhibition space.
From the moment you check in, you’re surrounded by paintings, sculptures, and installations from predominantly Italian artists.
Even the hallways feature carefully curated pieces, turning every walk to your room into a mini gallery tour.
I particularly loved discovering new details each time I passed through.
While staying there, I had the privilege of joining one of their pottery classes.
The Amalfi Coast has a rich tradition of ceramic artistry dating back centuries, and Pasitea brings in local masters to teach guests.
What I found most appealing about Pasitea is its unpretentious approach to art.
Some luxury art hotels can feel intimidating if you’re not an aficionado, but here the staff are passionate about making art accessible.
Price and Service
Prices for the Executive Room range from €350 to €500 per night, offering excellent value for a romantic stay with a private sea-view terrace.
The room features a queen-size bed with a 30 cm high comfortable mattress, a cozy sitting area with a sofa bed, and a private bathroom equipped with either a bathtub or shower, a hairdryer, hair straightener, and a courtesy set enriched with Neroli Oil and a sanitizing gel dispenser.
Additional amenities include a minibar, 49-inch Smart TV, tea and coffee maker, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning/heating.
Guests also benefit from services such as wake-up calls, direct telephone line, satellite TV, daily newspapers, laundry service, and pet-friendly accommodations. Ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for comfort with a stunning view.
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Nearby Attractions
- Positano Ceramic Workshop – adjacent to hotel
- Fornillo Beach – 15-minute walk
- Music on the Rocks nightclub – 12-minute walk
- Local artisan shops along Via Pasitea
- Typical Positano viewpoints – directly accessible from hotel terraces
Facilities
- Full exhibition gallery space on ground floor
- Ceramic workshop studio for guest use
- Art library focusing on traditional Amalfi crafts
- Terrace bar with artist meet-and-greets (seasonal)
- Art concierge for local gallery introductions
- Custom art map of Positano
- Rotating exhibition schedule
- Art-focused walking tours
- Transportation to regional museums and cultural sites
Le Sirenuse – Literary Arts and Visual Masterpieces
Location: Via Cristoforo Colombo, 30, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: www.sirenuse.it
Atmosphere
There’s something almost mythical about Le Sirenuse.
The moment I stepped into this legendary property, I understood why it has inspired writers and artists for generations.
Originally the summer home of the aristocratic Sersale family, this crimson villa transformed into a hotel in 1951 but has maintained the feeling of a collector’s private residence filled with stories and art.
What distinguishes Le Sirenuse in Positano’s art hotel scene is its seamless blend of literary and visual arts. The property houses an exceptional collection of both contemporary and classical art, with original pieces by artists like Martin Creed, Stanley Whitney, and Karl Holmqvist displayed throughout.
The literary tradition here runs deep.
John Steinbeck famously wrote about Le Sirenuse in a 1953 Harper’s Bazaar article that put Positano on the map for American travelers.
The hotel honors this heritage through its “Sirenuse Art Projects” and literary events that bring contemporary writers and artists into conversation with the space.
I was lucky enough to attend a reading by an Italian poet on the candlelit terrace that felt like stepping into another era.
Each year, they commission site-specific works from notable contemporary artists who stay at the hotel to absorb its atmosphere before creating pieces that respond to the environment.
Price and Service
Prices for the Junior Suite Sea View start from €3,519 per night, excluding taxes and fees.
These spacious 43 sqm (463 sq ft) suites are designed for comfort and elegance, offering full sea views, a sitting area, and a private balcony or terrace ranging from 7 to 22 sqm (73 to 237 sq ft).
Guests can choose between a large queen-size bed or two single beds, with an extra bed available on request at the time of booking.
While there are no non-smoking rooms, the suite includes luxury touches such as 24-hour room service, a minibar, coffee machine, and a choice between cotton or linen sheets.
Nearby Attractions
- Spiaggia Grande (main beach) – 3-minute walk
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta – 2-minute walk
- MAR Positano Roman Archaeological Museum – 5-minute walk
- Franco’s Bar (art-focused cocktail bar) – on property
- Le Sirenuse Art Collection walking tour – on property
Facilities
- La Sponda restaurant (Michelin-starred) with art installations
- Franco’s Bar featuring commissioned contemporary art
- Swimming pool surrounded by sculptural elements
- Aveda Concept Spa with art-inspired treatments
- Private yacht for art-focused coastal excursions
- “Emporio Sirenuse” boutique featuring artist collaborations
- The Sirenuse Art Collection tour (curator-led)
- Literary salon events (seasonal)
- Professional art library with rare volumes
- Partnerships with major international art institutions
Hotel Marincanto – Emerging Artists and Panoramic Inspiration
Location: Via Cristoforo Colombo, 50, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Website: www.marincanto.it
Atmosphere
Hotel Marincanto holds a special place in my heart as the property that best represents Positano’s evolving art scene.
Perched dramatically on a cliff edge with some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in town, this family-run hotel has made its name by championing emerging artists rather than relying solely on established names.
What immediately struck me about Marincanto was their rotating “New Vision” program, which gives an entire floor of the hotel to up-and-coming Italian artists each season.
During my stay, a young artist from Naples had created the most incredible series of mixed-media pieces incorporating found objects from Positano’s beaches. The artist was actually staying at the hotel during my visit, and encountering her sketching on the terrace one morning led to a fascinating conversation about how Positano’s light differs from anywhere else in Italy.
The rooms themselves are a masterclass in how setting can enhance artistic experience. Each has been designed around the spectacular views, with specific artwork chosen to create a dialogue with the natural panorama outside.
I was particularly impressed by Marincanto’s “Artist Guestbook” tradition. Rather than a standard guest book, visiting artists contribute small original works that are displayed in the library.
Booking & Cancellation Policy
The nightly rate for 1 May 2025 is €528.00 under the Bed & Breakfast plan, with the Best Rate Guarantee and free cancellation in accordance with the policy terms.
Any adjustments or cancellations are only valid if confirmed by the hotel.
For cancellations made on 30 April 2025, a full penalty of €528.00 applies. In case of no-show, a €100.00 cancellation fee per night will be charged.
For bookings made within 14 days of arrival, a non-refundable deposit equal to the first night (€528.00) is required and must be paid by 30 April 2025.
Nearby Attractions
- Spiaggia Grande (main beach) – 7-minute walk
- Fornillo Beach – 15-minute walk
- Contemporary Art Gallery Positano – 10-minute walk
- Positano Art School – 5-minute walk
- Local craft workshops – scattered throughout nearby area
Facilities
- Infinity pool overlooking the Amalfi Coast
- “Terrazza Celè” restaurant featuring art-inspired cuisine
- Dedicated gallery space for emerging artists
- “Artist’s Corner” – working studio space open to guests
- Photography studio with professional lighting
- Art library focusing on contemporary Italian artists
- Weekly artist meet-and-greet events
- “Art Aperitivo” sunset sketching sessions
- Photography perspective tours
- On-site art curator for personal consultations
How to Choose the Right Positano Art Hotels
After staying at all these amazing properties over the years, I’ve learned that finding your perfect Positano art hotel match is about understanding your own artistic preferences.
Are you drawn to historical collections and classical techniques?Le Sirenuse or Il San Pietro could feel like your spiritual haven.
More excited by contemporary art and emerging talents? Le Sirenuse services take fewer steps while fetching top-tier prices.
Budget considerations obviously play a huge role in the decision.
I’ve made the mistake of stretching my finances too thin for a premium property and then not having enough left to actually enjoy Positano’s other offerings!
Location within Positano dramatically shapes your experience too.
During one visit, I stayed at a wonderful art hotel high up in the town, which offered spectacular views but meant a serious hike every time I wanted to reach the beach.
Consider your mobility and priorities — Villa Franca and Hotel Marincanto offer those postcard-perfect panoramic views but require more stair climbing, while properties closer to the beach like certain rooms at Le Sirenuse involve fewer steps but command premium prices.
Here’s a tip I learned the hard way: when booking, be specific about requesting art-focused rooms!
If you’re serious about art experiences, don’t be shy about contacting the concierge before your arrival.
Many properties offer special art tours, workshop access, or artist meetings that aren’t advertised on their websites.
During my last stay, a simple email inquiry resulted in the hotel arranging a private tour of a local artist’s studio that became the highlight of my trip.
Ultimately, the “best” Positano art hotel is the one that resonates with your personal connection to creativity. Each property I’ve described offers its own unique artistic perspective on this magical corner of Italy.