Amalfi Coast › Praiano Hotels
Updated: December 16, 2025 • By Santorini Dave
My Favorite Hotels in Praiano
• 5-star: Casa Angelina
• 4-star: Grand Tritone
• 3-star: Albadamare
• For couples: Casa Angelina
• For families: Grand Tritone
• Best pool: Grand Tritone
• Best view: Piccolo Sant’Andrea
Pool and sundeck with a sea view at Casa Angelina.
Praiano Hotels – My Tips
- Why Stay in Praiano? Praiano is the relaxed, authentic alternative to Positano. It sits right in the middle of the coast (between Amalfi and Positano), offering the best sunsets in the region. It’s quieter, cheaper, and feels more like a real village. However, it is spread out and steep, so be prepared for walking.
- Understanding the Geography (The “V” Shape): The town is divided into two distinct sides by a ridge, forming a “V” shape.
- East Side (Praiano Center/Marina di Praia): Faces Amalfi. Gets the morning sun (sunrise). Home to the main church (San Luca) and the rocky beach cove of Marina di Praia. Best for early risers.
- West Side (Vettica Maggiore): Faces Positano and Capri. Gets the afternoon sun (sunset) and stays sunny later than anywhere else on the coast. Home to the stunning San Gennaro church and Gavitella Beach. Best for views and sunsets.
- Beaches:
- Marina di Praia (East): A dramatic, narrow cove nestled between high cliffs. It has a pebble beach, several excellent restaurants (like Il Pirata), and a dive center. Accessible by car or bus.
- Gavitella Beach (West): Famous for being the only beach on the Amalfi Coast with sun until sunset. Home to the lively One Fire Beach Club. Warning: It’s reached by a steep descent of about 400 steps (and a tough climb back up).
- Transportation (No Ferry Port):
Unlike Positano or Amalfi, Praiano does not have a public ferry port. You cannot take a standard ferry here. You must rely on the SITA bus or private water taxis.
- The Bus Reality: The SITA bus stops in Praiano, but in high season (July/August), buses coming from Amalfi or Positano are often full and may not stop.
- The Local Bus: Use the local “Mobility Amalfi Coast” bus to move between the top of the town and the beaches. It loops continuously and is much less crowded than the regional SITA bus.
- Buying Bus Tickets:
You cannot buy tickets on the bus. You must buy them in advance at a “Tabacchi” (tobacco shop) or bar. Pro Tip: Drop by Bob Art and Winery in the center. Bob sells bus tickets, makes amazing ceramics, and offers great local wine advice.
The 4 Best Hotels in Praiano
1. Casa Angelina – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 089 813 1333
A stunning, stark-white luxury boutique hotel that feels more like a modern art gallery than a traditional Italian hotel. It sits on a cliff in Vettica Maggiore, offering the best sunset views on the coast (looking straight at Positano and Capri). Facilities include an outdoor pool, a heated indoor pool/wellness center, and an elevator that takes you partway down to the beach (followed by steps). The rooftop restaurant, Un Piano Nel Cielo, serves fine dining under the stars. Rooms are minimalist and bright; the “Eudesea” suites are converted fishermen’s cabins located down near the water. Perfect for honeymooners who want modern luxury away from the crowds.
2. Grand Hotel Tritone – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 089 874 333
A classic, grand hotel perched on a sheer cliff on the edge of town (closer to Positano). The biggest selling point here is the private beach club accessible via an elevator built directly into the rock – a massive convenience in a region defined by steep stairs. There are two saltwater pools (one up top, one down by the sea). Rooms are traditional with tile floors and sea views. It offers a free shuttle to Praiano center and private boat excursions. A fantastic choice for travelers who want easy sea access without the hiking.
3. Il Piccolo Sant’Andrea – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 089 813 087
Set high up on the hillside just outside Vettica Maggiore, this boutique hotel offers sweeping panoramic views from Praiano all the way to the Faraglioni rocks of Capri. It features an indoor pool and spa, plus a seasonal outdoor pool. Rooms are modern with private balconies; some top-tier suites have outdoor jacuzzis. While it is a bit removed from the town center (about a 20-30 minute walk), the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle to Praiano and Positano, and the bus stop is right outside the gate.
4. Hotel Onda Verde – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 089 874 125
A family-run gem located on the eastern side of town, hanging directly over the Marina di Praia cove. It shares facilities (including a beautiful infinity pool) with its sister property, Villa Corallium. The location is excellent for easy access to the water – you are just steps away from the beach, boat rentals, and water taxis, with no massive hikes required. The on-site restaurant, Franchino, is excellent and offers romantic sea-view dining. Rooms are cozy, typically featuring classic Mediterranean tile work and balconies.
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