Il San Pietro di Positano: Views, Dining & an Insider Tour of This Luxury Hideaway

Location

Carved into the cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Il San Pietro sits between Positano and Praiano about ten minutes outside the main town, reachable via the 24-hour private shuttle van or taxi boat exclusively for guests. Its setting gives you a tranquil, crowd-free experience without feeling too far removed.

Rooms

All 55 rooms have sea views and a private terrace. Eighteen face Positano while the rest look toward Praiano. Since king beds aren’t common in Italy, travelers should start with the Premier category or higher if that’s a must. And if bathtubs matter (you’re speaking my language), book Elite or above so your bubble baths come with a view.

Signature Room living space

Signature Room tub with sea view

Dining

Zass:

Zass holds a Michelin star for good reason. The warm staff starts you with a slice of wood-fired pizza that isn’t on the menu, which is tragic because I wanted the whole pie. Their appetizers change seasonally—when I visited, the tomato soup came with little tomatoes that literally burst with flavor.

I always guide clients toward seafood here since it’s their specialty. My favorite is the Pesce San Pietro (John Dory) topped with lemon crust straight from their gardens. Most of the ingredients come from those same gardens, which guests can wander through during their stay. For anyone not into seafood, there are plenty of pasta and meat dishes. And the views? Think glowing coastline and moonlit water in every direction.

Michelin-star dining at Zass

The Terrace Bar:

Through the gardens, right on the cliff’s edge, this is your front-row seat to Positano’s golden hour. I always love the colorful tiled benches that give this whole outdoor space such a cheerful, dreamy feel. Don’t leave without trying their signature Bellini!

Terrace Bar views

Carlinos:

Exclusively for guests, and set seaside between the private beach club and outdoor fitness area. It’s the perfect post-swim, post-yoga, post-anything lunch spot.

Breakfast:

Imagine waking up with the Mediterranean sun on your skin as you bite into fresh fruit, croissants, and a huge buffet spread. If you snag a railing seat like I did, settle in and take your time. As the locals say, “piano, piano” - slowly, slowly.

Breakfast

Amenities

If salt water and a private beach aren’t enough, there’s also a pool, spa, lemon-tree-lined outdoor gym, and tennis courts overlooking the sea. Guests can enjoy included experiences like daily cruises, Italian lessons, cooking classes, cocktail masterclasses, yoga, Pilates, and more.

Il San Pietro Pool

This is a dream spot for honeymoons, anniversaries, or anyone who wants quiet luxury with unreal views. That said, some travelers prefer to be right in the action. I’m often asked whether to stay in Positano, Sorrento, Praiano, or Amalfi, and the answer depends on how you want to spend your time. For most clients, Positano wins for convenience: boats, ferries, island access, shopping, dining, and a bit of nightlife all become easier when you’re based there. Once the day-trippers leave, you get to see Positano the way locals do.

Even if you’re staying elsewhere, make time for sunset drinks at The Terrace Bar followed by dinner at Zass. And if you want to arrive by boat the way I always prefer, I’ll set it up.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, check out my 8-day Italy itinerary for Positano, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.