We have 8 nights in Positano this June, we are booked at Sirenuse, but are wondering if we should try San Pietro as well. San Pietro is a little cheaper than Sierenuse, but what other than that is the real difference. We want spectacular views, great acommodations and great food. This is a 50th birthday trip for me. We will be in Italy for 17 nights, 3 Rome (De Russie), 5 Capri (Ceasar Augustus) 8 Positano. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thank you

I wouldn't go through the bother of changing hotels in Positano just to try a different one. I've stayed at both and prefer the Sirenuse. I like the up close and personal view of Positano rather than the Positano at a distance view that you get at the San Pietro. I think the food at the San Pietro is overpriced and not very special. The food is expensive at La Sponda (Le Sirenuse's restaurant) too but I thought it was much better. The decor of the rooms at the San Pietro is kind of strange, sort of like an Italian Austin Powers pad, and left me cold. The San Pietro does have its own beach but by the time you get from your room and take the elevator down to it, you could have descended the steps from the Sirenuse to Positano's beach. One thing I do like about the San Pietro, it has the cutest sky blue Fiat Jolly convertible to shuttle you into town.

Sirenuse was recently voted one of the best hotels in Europe. I think it was either number one or two, for that matter. And there's good reason for that.

The hotel sits in the middle of Positano, so it's within walking distance to all that Positano has to offer. San Pietro is a few miles outside of town, but does provide a shuttle. Sirenuse has much better food and service than San Pietro, and is far less stuffy.

However, with eight days available, I'm tempted to suggest that you split your stay between Sirenuse and Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, just for a change of scene. The gardens at Villa Cimbrone are magical-- a real delight for the senses.

Good luck with your plans, and have a great trip!

I'm assuming this is a a visit BACK to Italy -- and you love the Amalfi coastal area. Otherwise, I don't know why you would want to spend only 3 nights in Rome and 13 on the Amalfi Coast. Are you sure this is all you want to do? Otherwise, I'd suggest 2 on Capri would be plenty and 3 in Positano, and check out Tuscany with the 8 remaining (like maybe one night in Orvieto (which is actually Umbria) and 3 in Pienza or some place, 2 in Florence and a couple closer to be able to make it back to where-ever your return flight leaves from. If this is like your 3rd or 4th trip to Italy, forgive my presumption. Have a lovely 50th birthday. It's gonna happen no matter where you are, so you might as well LOVE it!

Thanks for all of the info. Another question is which room category. We really want a great view. We are booked in a Jr. Suite, but with the euro it is quit pricy. Would a deluxe or superior room afford great views or would they be interior rooms. Also if anyone has a room # suggestion for a great balcony and view I would appreciate it. Thanks again

I have stayed at both the San Pietro and the Sirenuse. I prefer the Sirenuse. When I was staying at the San Pietro, I would walk by the Sirenuse and wish I was staying there! I think a deluxe sea view room is fine. That is what I always stay in. The Jr. Suites may have larger balconies though. The balconies on the deluxe rooms are small, but have great views. I like the earlier suggestion if you haven't been to Ravello. I have a friend that recently stayed at the Villa Sasso and Le Sirenuse and she raved about both, but really loved Villa Sasso. It is a lot less expensive than the Sirenuse, I think because Ravello is about an hour out of the way for day trips. Ravello is incredibly beautiful and romantic. If you haven't been there, spend 5 or 6 nights at the Sirenuse and 2 or 3 nights in Ravello. Just know that Ravello is very small and I think of it as a place to just Rest and relax. Don't miss the Villa Cimbrone's gardens. If it were my trip, that is what I would do. I stayed at the Sirenuse 6 nights my first trip and really enjoyed it, but I would like to stay a few days at Villa Sasso. I will be in Positano at Le Sirenuse in June, but my daughter is getting married and we will have guests in Positano, so I will not be able to try out the Sasso, otherwise I definitely would. Have a great trip!

Sirenuse, without a doubt!