1. Italy
  2. Amalfi Coast
  3. Positano
  4. Villa Irina
  5. Reviews

Reviews of Villa Irina

Self catering apartment in Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Graham Z.

Victoria

Canada

VERIFIED

Spacious, clean, quiet, and with an exceptional view of the town and the sea

October 2019 - Villa Irina was delightful and perfect for out stay on the Amalfi Coast. The apartment is spacious, clean, quiet, and has an exceptional view of the town and the sea from the patio. We were very comfortable there and enjoyed the stay immensely.

The apartment had a good supply of cooking pans and utensils, some basic supplies (coffee, oil, etc.) and a nice big fridge as well as a kitchen/eating area, separate living room (with TV), very comfortable bedroom/en-suite and guest bathroom. The patio, which was exceptional, had a table, chairs, 2 lounges and umbrella.

We felt the Chiesa Nuova district, where the apartment is located, was an ideal location. It has a more local feel; however, it is up many steps from the town centre – so if you plan to frequent that area or the beach, one must relish hiking up, or taking the local bus.

Our hostess and host were lovely people – kind and friendly – and even with our virtually non-existent Italian and their limited English, we still managed to communicate sufficiently. As your ‘Summer In Italy’ instructions suggest, one should be prepared to be somewhat independent and not expect the host to ‘plan your vacation’. Having said that, we found, without exception, our host/hostess and everyone on the street or in stores was prepared to ‘point you in the right direction’ when asked.

We were very happy with the service from Luca. The information provided was timely and helpful. Responses to our questions were always prompt.

Travel tips

  • Regarding services close by, only 150 steps up to the main road SS 163 (and to the right) there are two grocery stores nearby, a butcher shop (near the grocery stores), a Tabacchi store (for bus tickets) and the Bar Internazionale (for coffees/ croissants or a drink) outside of which are the SITA and local bus stops (either the Interno Positano, or the local Montepertuso/Nocelle) - one must have tickets before boarding the bus. On that same level as you arrive at SS 163, and to the left, is a small family restaurant.
  • When you head down a flight of stairs from the apartment to Viale Pasitea, and beyond, there are many restaurants and gelato shops as well as access to Fornillo Beach (lot of steps) or an alternate set of steps to the Spiaggia Grande (there is access from one spiaggia to the other), or to Piazza Mulini (another main bus stop) from which you can access the general shopping area, Cathedral and the ferries. Check the archaeological site beneath the Cathedral (tickets required).
  • The third main bus stop is Sponda (with Piazza dei Mulini behind you, take the street to your right up the hill about 400 meters), right where Viale Pasitea (which is actually called Via Cristoforo Colombo at this point) and SS 163 meet.
  • We found the food good (or excellent) everywhere, tho we stayed away from the harbor area. A couple we liked: the Restaurant Saraceno D'Oro (excellent pizza) - Restaurant Da Vincenzo (for a slightly more upscale meal) - Latteria (a small grocery/deli, which also serves excellent hot and cold lunch dishes to ‘take away’ or enjoy in the limited seating outside). If shopping for groceries to ‘cook in’, go early as that is when you’ll find the best selection of bread, fruits and vegetables.
  • Is best to have a map as the twists and turns of Viale Pasitea and the stairwells can leave you disoriented on direction. Keep in mind that the SS 163 (which goes toward Sorrento or the other direction towards Amalfi and Salerno) intersects at two points with Viale Pasitea.
  • Unless you are a driver or scooter operator with excellent reflexes and experience in similar conditions, don’t even think about driving. The locals have it figured out, but it’s very busy and roadways are extremely narrow.
  • Public transportation is excellent (buses, ferries) but busy, even in shoulder season. Destinations beyond Amalfi usually require a change in bus or ferry in Amalfi.
  • There are many daily ferries to Capri/Anacapri from Positano, and it’s definitely worth a visit... In Capri, check out Villa Lysis and Villa Jovis as well as taking a ride on the Anacapri Chairlift to the peak of Mount Solaro.
  • There are a number of interesting, and somewhat challenging, hikes near Positano: the (famous) Path of the Gods (accessed either from Bomerano to Nocelle - the slightly easier walk - or the reverse direction), the Path of the Lemons (from Minori/Maiori) and locally, Santa Maria del Castello (from Chiesa Nuova, about 3 km up) or a walk to Montepertuso and/or Nocelle (access steps from SS 163) – all of which provide wonderful views.
  • Ravello is a must see, but no longer a sleepy, quiet spot and is expensive.
  • Atrani is quaint and quiet. If hiking with an end point in Atrani, there is a pedestrian-only access to Amalfi.
  • In Amalfi check out the old paper mill, now a museum.

Andrew M.

Chichester

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Villa Irina was a lovely place to stay

April 2019 - Villa Irina was a lovely place to stay. The accommodation was very clean. Bed was extremely comfortable. Kitchen well equipped. The outdoor space was excellent for relaxing on the recliners or having a meal outdoors.

Our host Giovanni was very friendly and helpful. Giovanni explained the local buses to us and told us where the nearest shop and restaurant was. He was on hand if we needed anything.

We were very pleased to book with Summer In Italy as you have good knowledge of your properties. Your service was very good. Prompt reply to any questions we may have had. You contacted the owner of the property for us as we had a query as to whether we could arrive early to leave our luggage. This was a great help.

Travel tips

  • Shops, good restaurant and bus stop at the top of the steps.
  • Down in the town were plenty of unusual boutiques, restaurants etc.
  • Went by bus to Amalfi, then onto Agerola (Bomerano) to do the Path of the Gods Walk. Amazing!
  • Ravello was a lovely place to visit. Stunning views from Villa Cimbrone.
  • Also day trip to Capri was fun.

Vicki D.

LaPlace, LA

United States

VERIFIED

An absolutely beautiful view

October 2018 - An absolutely beautiful view. The accommodations were spotless. This is a wonderful location but you must be prepared for the steps. They can be daunting, especially when trying to get your luggage back to the street upon departure. But, steps aside, it was a great location.

Summer In Italy was great. All of the information provided in advance was correct and extremely helpful.

“Future guests: if you ever wondered whether there is an alternative at carrying your luggage up/down the stairs of Positano, the answer is a definite yes. The Positano Porters are there just for that: they move baggage and other heavy loads to (and from!) villas and apartments in Positano, for a fee!„

Travel tips

  • Everything about Positano is magical. Just explore and enjoy!

Elizabeth P.

Cooperstown, NY

United States

VERIFIED

Very good

October 2018 - We enjoyed our stay at Villa Irina. It was clean and comfortable with a lovely terrace and view.

Our host was wonderful. Friendly and very helpful!

Booking with Summer In Italy was a very easy process!

Travel tips

  • This is not for someone out of shape. There are 110 steps up from the road to the house and more from the house to a grocery and butcher etc. On the other hand burning these calories was great since we were enjoying many delicious meals and bottles of wine!

Marikay K.

Minneapolis, MN

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2018 - Excellent property and location. Exactly as it appears in the photos. Terrace was amazing.

Communication with Summer In Italy was always timely, friendly, and responsive. Had never booked a rental outside of the US, so was slightly apprehensive, but the entire experience was outstanding. Luca was highly responsive and professional and instilled great confidence in Summer In Italy. Highly recommended.

Peder L.

Upplands Väsby

Sweden

VERIFIED

Quiet excellent place

May 2018 - Quiet excellent place, fresh and clean, great view. As always in Positano steep high steps wherever to go.

Luca and team amazingly informative and supportive, as well as the house crew. Just great. Nothing to needs to be improved. Fast responses to mails all the time.

John C.

Markham

Canada

VERIFIED

Best equipped home ever

November 2017 - Loved Villa Irina. Best equipped home we have rented so far.

Giovanni [the caretaker] was amazingly helpful.

The home was terrific but the terrace and view were spectacular.

Summer In Italy is the best!

Travel tips

  • There are stairs to climb!
  • We went in November and many restaurants and shops were already closed for the winter. [It's very true that from November to March some of the seasonal outfits are closed. Those who stay open, however, are the ones who also cater to the locals, offering outstanding quality and value. :-) ]

Carole L.

Miscouche

Canada

VERIFIED

Everything is always perfect

September 2016 - I have stayed at Villa Irina for the past 6 years and everything is always perfect. My stay was for 2 weeks at the beginning of September 2016 and it felt like paradise. There is a reason I keep coming back to Villa Irina year after year. Everything is always in perfect working order: the washing machine, the kitchen and bathrooms. The sofa bed is also very comfortable if needed. The highlight for me is being able to eat every meal on the beautiful terrace.

The owners are delightful and always helpful. Everything was perfect. Thanks!

Love Summer In Italy. So easy to book a vacation, no hassle. It's always a pleasure doing business with you!!

Travel tips

  • There are many steps to reach Villa Irina, but if you plan your days wisely, you will not have to go up too many!
  • I usually walk down to the Spiaggia Grande, either taking the steps or the road to have a swim, shop or to walk to Fornillo beach. When I want to return to the villa, I take the internal bus from the Piazza dei Mulini which takes you all the way up to the street above the villa, where you can do groceries before walking down.
  • There are ferries to take you to any town along the Amalfi Coast, this time I went to Capri for half a day. It is a great boat trip!

Scott D.

Madison, CT

United States

VERIFIED

Fantastic

August 2015 - Villa Irina was better than our expectations. Clean, modern, fantastic views and location, convenient to Positano's center and beaches. My only issue, although it didn't bother my wife, was the area could be noisy at night, with the sounds of the village rising up the hill to the bedroom windows.

Giovanni [the owner] was extremely helpful and concerned with our satisfaction, but also was unobtrusive.

Our entire rental experience was flawless. We will absolutely use Summer In Italy again, and would rent Villa Irina again without hesitation.

Travel tips

  • Rent a scooter from the place near the parking garage, visible from the house terrace. Great way to get around.
  • We explored the entire Amalfi Coast by scooter, best part of our trip.
  • The day-trip to Capri was a highlight, especially with charter boats that let you swim off the boat.
  • We booked this trip, as well as our limo back to Naples from the same place that rented us the scooter.
  • Everything in Positano is walkable from Villa Irina if you're reasonably fit, so don't worry about transportation in town.

Carole L.

Miscouche

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2015 - Villa Irina is a beautiful place to stay in Positano.

I have stayed there for the past few years and it never disappoints. It is a bit of a climb to get to, but worth it for me. It is clean and welcoming. The kitchen is amazing and the terrace is great for eating outside or just relaxing with a great view of course!

The hospitality of the owners makes you feel right at home. Will not hesitate to stay at Villa Irina again. Everything is always perfect!

Summer In Italy is the best rental agency I have dealt with so far when renting in Italy. They are friendly and will give you advice and help you with anything regarding vacation rentals. I wouldn't hesitate to deal with them again, hopefully in the near future!

Travel tips

  • There are many steps to get to Villa Irina. Going down is easier than going up, so you can walk down to the centre of Positano and come back taking the local bus to the street above the property and then walk down.
  • You can even do some grocery shopping where the bus stops.

Deborah R.

Vancouver

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

November 2014 - Villa Irina was exactly as advertised. The apartment is well appointed and the space was perfect for us. Loved the kitchen and having two full bathrooms. The view from the terrace is lovely.

Please just keep doing everything the way you are.

Booking through Summer In Italy was wonderful. Great service, things all as promised, easy to reserve and always available to help if it was needed. The website provided lots of useful information. We will definitely use them again.

Travel tips

  • You can buy everything you need right at the top of the stairs.
  • The local shops made us feel very welcome and helped us find what we needed even though we don't speak Italian.
  • Hiking on the Amalfi Coast is spectacular.
  • I did a wonderful cooking class at Restaurant Il Ritrovo in Montepertuso - it's definitely worth going there for a wonderful meal.
  • A note on the stairs - there are a lot of them - the steps are deeper than normal and many of the stairways are very steep. We are 60 and were able to manage but the first couple of days were pretty tough. Anyone who is fairly fit should be able to manage. It is so worth the effort.

Melisa C.

Annville, PA

United States

VERIFIED

Fantastic

September 2014 - We couldn't have been happier with Villa Irina! It was spacious, clean, roomy for 2 - and oh the views...... Terrace was definitely the high point of the property - although the whole place was really nice and clean! We spent 95% of our time outside on the wonderful terrace! Day and night we had our morning coffee out there, planned our day, woke up to the gorgeous sea and all the cliff-side homes to gaze at and it was just as beautiful at night lit up! The only noise really were the barking dogs and the cars below..... which after about a day or so we got very used to!

Would recommend and stay again for sure.

The owners helped us take our heavy luggage up all those steps - which was so helpful!

Summer In Italy, you are a top notch operator from start to finish - and I would use you again!

Travel tips

  • Great spot and close to beach club nearby.
  • Make sure you are able to climb steps - or this wouldn't be for you! The stairs were tough - I think more than 100 to get there.... And the stairs continue up even more past the villa to another road - which were even steeper and tougher to climb. We are fitness people so it wasn't a problem for us - although even we had to stop every so many steps to catch our breath!

Jessica W.

Toronto

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2014 - We loved our time at Villa Irina!

We spent a lot of time in the house cooking and relaxing on the terrace - it was a wonderful place to unwind and pictures don't do justice to the view!

Giovanni and Rita [the owners] were very accommodating and also gave us privacy which was great.

Wish we could go back right now!

Travel tips

  • Bus stop to get down to the beach is very close to the villa.
  • If you would like to do a bit of exercise you can also walk. We walked down and up everyday and it was fine!

Trieu H.

Columbus, Ohio

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2014 - What a lovely place with amazing view.

The house is beautiful and very comfortable. Very well equipped and had everything we needed. We were pleasantly surprised with the WiFi.

The owners, Giovanni and Rita, were extremely nice and helpful.

We would definitely stay here again.

Everyone at Summer In Italy was extremely helpful, from helping us with the reservation to answering any questions we had for our trip to Capri and Positano. Thank you very much for all of your help!

Travel tips

  • Great location, close to many great restaurants and walk able to both beaches in Positano.
  • Unless you are using a car service, I would strongly recommend taking a taxi to the house if you arrive by ferry to Positano.

Carole L.

Miscouche

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2014 - Villa Irina is a wonderful villa.

I've been enjoying it once a year for 4 years now! For me it is like coming home everytime. I enjoy everything about the villa even the many steps which keep me in shape. I will be returning for sure.

Everything was perfect, even the weather!

Summer in Italy, as always, is simply great to deal with. They are so friendly and helpful. I would never think of booking with any other rental company. Always professional and courteous service!

Travel tips

  • Don't be intimidated by all the steps. When you take them slow, it is pleasant since, as you go up or down, you have great views of Positano below.
  • Grocery shopping is great on the street above the villa which you reach either by going up the steps or taking the local bus from Piazza dei Mulini and getting off on the street above after a day at the beach.

Sherri G.

Canton, MA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2014 - Amazing view of magical Positano!

Villa Irina was well equipped. There are many stairs which helped us justify the delicious food. The terrace was beautiful.

The owners were charming and left treats for us on arrival. We would not hesitate to return to this villa.

Summer in Italy was great!

Travel tips

  • Our taxi driver was amazing. He picked us up in Naples when we arrived and also took us to Pompeii for a day trip.

Jamey F.

San Francisco, CA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2014 - Villa Irina exceeded our expectations in every way.

We enjoyed the very comfortable furniture in the living room, ideal for reading, which is unusual in many hotels for rentals. There's also a very nice table on the deck, and very comfortable lounges to lie on. And that view! I could sit on the patio all day long mesmerized by the view of the sea and the activity down below. Two of our five days we spent mostly just at the house enjoying the quiet and serenity.

The hosts, Rita and Giovanni, were extremely friendly and went out of their way to make sure that we were comfortable. It was almost as if I felt pampered at my own grandmother's house. Giovanni insisted on carrying my bag to the door. Rita greeted us inside, and using my awful Italian we laughed our way through the house orientation. They had gone out of their way to include unexpected special surprises for us.

We would definitely return!

Travel tips

  • Our two favorite places to eat where La Zagara Garden Bar in central Positano and just below the villa, for dinner, Il Fornaio.
  • When you need some groceries, simply walk up to the main road and take the right. There's an excellent little grocery store right near the Bar Internazionale.

Nona B.

River Forest

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

March 2014 - Villa Irina was very clean and quiet. Whenever we had a concern, Giovanni [the caretaker] was there within minutes to help us.

We would stay there again and recommend this villa to others.

You were very helpful and thorough. We would book through you again.

Trish B.

Northcote

Australia

VERIFIED

Excellent

January 2014 - Villa Irina is more like a home than an apartment. Our greeter, Giovanni, was there to meet us the moment we stepped off the bus helping us carry heavy suitcases to the apartment, and Rita [the owner] welcomed us with homemade jams and limoncello.

There were wonderful views from every window, the kitchen was well stocked with lovely ceramic dishes and loads of pots and pans and cutlery. Rita had also provided the basics - olive oil, onion and garlic - for a first meal. There was also a comfy bed with embroidered linen and the villa was spacious and absolutely spotless.

It was a pleasure doing business with you - professional, efficient and very friendly.

Travel tips

  • Positano is great in January: very few tourists and mostly sunny days. It's also an excellent base. We visited Pompeii (Sita bus to Sorrento - they run all the time - and the Circumvesuviana train to Pompei Scavi, also running regularly, from Sorrento).
  • Ferries don’t operate from Positano in January but you can do an inexpensive hop on/hop off trip along the Amalfi coast, and visit Ravello. Use the red buses if you want to travel to local spots such as Monterpertuso, highly recommended for the view. And if you're travelling to or from Naples airport, the Curreri Viaggi bus costs 10 euros per person and takes 1.5 hours saving you a fortune in taxi fares.
  • We booked through Summer in Italy and highly recommend them. Villa Irina is exactly as it appears on their website, their service was cheerful and efficient and they were always quick to answer queries and to offer advice.

Robert S.

Falmouth, MA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2013 - We loved Villa Irina after we got use to the stairs... 110 from the street.

Rita and Giovanni [the owners] were very helpful. We would highly recommend Villa Irina. I would rate "peace and quiet" below average because there were dogs barking and rooster wake up early, early!

Our travel agent highly recommended you and we have told several people how happy we were with your company.

Travel tips

  • We loved the location!! Positano is a beautiful destination.
  • Some of the places we enjoyed: take the Red Fish from Spiaggia Grande Beach to a private cove lunch at Da Adolfo and enjoy wine served with fresh peaches floating on top.
  • Boat trip to Capri... the company we went with was L'uomo e il Mare excellent!
  • We hiked from Positano to Montepertuso, about 3hrs 1500 ft.
  • Great coffee shop Bar Mulino verde. Restaurant Next 2 also has great food.

Carole L.

Miscouche

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2013 - This is my 3rd year at Villa Irina. I always enjoy my stay; it's like coming home. Everything is great and very clean and welcoming. Giovanni and Rita are the owners and they are wonderful people. They always leave some special treats for their guests. I will definitely be back in the near future.

Summer in Italy is the best agency that I have used in Italy. The service is impeccable. You really feel that they want to take care of you and the website is easy to use for reserving and paying for your reservation. You can be sure that I will be using Summer in Italy again in the near future.

Travel tips

  • Even though there are lots of steps to reach the villa, it is easy to walk down the stairs to the street below and walk down to the beach. To come back, you can take the bus from Piazza dei Mulini and get off on the street just above the villa where you will find grocery stores and a butcher shop. There is a restaurant just passed the stairs to go back down to the villa. Also, it keeps you in shape after eating all that good food!

Dawn M.

Ottawa

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2013 - The villa was quite perfect. Very large for 2 people and would be great for 4 people as well.

Travel tips

  • The kitchen is well stocked and very functional. We didn't use it ourselves as we enjoying dining around Positano but it would be an easy way to economize.

John I.

Chapel Hill, NC

United States

VERIFIED

Fantastic

October 2012 - We had a great time in Positano and at Villa Irina! Would definitely recommend the Villa Irina and would stay there again without hesitation. It's perfect for two people.

Excellent job... will use you again on our future trips to Italy!

Travel tips

  • No need to have a rental car! We rented a car for 5 days and never used the car. You can easily get around on foot, bus or boat. Save your money and do not rent a car.
  • All of the Italians on the Amalfi Coast are so friendly and warm. Positano was a delight and all the food was excellent not to mention the incredible awesome views! What a neat place to have stayed for 8 days... would go back in a North Carolina minute!

Milli M.

Neutral Bay

Australia

VERIFIED

Fantastic

August 2012 - Our stay at Villa Irina was fantastic.

The owners greeted us with a warm Italian smile. They were more than happy to carry our luggage up the stairs and their door was always open for help.

Would stay in the villa over and over again.

Travel tips

  • Highly recommend it, do not let the stairs scare you. The location was great, not too far from the city centre an easy walk down the street. Close to restaurants, bus stop at the bottom of the steps.
  • I would highly recommend a visit to Da Adolfo beach and make sure you stay for lunch the food is yum, yum, yum, yum... yum!

Terrence L.

Washington, DC

United States

VERIFIED

Fantastic

August 2012 - Wonderful location in a wonderful town.

Carole L.

Miscouche

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2012 - Villa Irina is excellent. I enjoyed it again as I was there last year also. It was like coming home!

The owners are wonderful and provided excellent homemade wine, jam and a bowl full of fruits from their garden.

The terrace is great; I had all my meals outdoors.

I booked with Summer in Italy last year and again this year... that says it all!! They are very helpful, friendly and prompt to respond to any questions. I can't think of anything that needs improving. Thanks again.

Travel tips

  • There are many steps to reach Villa Irina, but if you take your time and enjoy the view on the way up or down, it won't be so difficult.
  • I walked down to the beach everyday and then took the local bus getting off on the street above. It gave me the opportunity to shop for groceries as there is a grocery store and a butcher shop on the way.

Lee-Ann M.

Albury

Australia

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2012 - We enjoyed our stay at Villa Irina, Rita and Giovanni were lovely hosts, Giovanni was there to greet us and help carry our suitcases up to Villa Irina, Rita showed us how to use the appliances.

The Villa was immaculately clean and spacious, fantastic kitchen with great cooking facilities, well equipped kitchen.

We loved the home-made jam, fresh peaches, red wine and limoncello Giovanni and Rita left for us. The views were beautiful, we ate all our meals on this great spacious balcony. Home away from home. Bathrooms were spacious and very very clean.

Overall we loved everything about Villa Irina.

Summer in Italy has been fantastic to deal with, prompt replies by email, great service. Your directions and travel advice about getting to Villa Irina was very informative.

Thanks Luca once again you were wonderful.

Travel tips

  • Bus stop was at the bottom of Villa Irina stairs.
  • If the steps to Positano are too much, take the road, enjoyable stroll.
  • Cafe Brezza had good coffee, and cocktails, also wi fi.
  • A fun day was to restaurant Da Adolfo, caught boat with big red fish at main wharf, hired chairs for the day, had good coffee, and lovely lunch, very relaxing.

Lyne L.

Trois-Rivières

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2012 - Villa Irina was better than expected! We Absolutely enjoyed it!

Excellent service. No problems at all.

Linda H.

Toronto

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2012 - We rented Villa Irina for 4 nights in early May. It was immaculate, with a lovely terrace and gorgeous kitchen.

The washing machine worked and the kitchen was equipped with all the basics.

The villa is in a good location -- about a 15 minute walk to the beach down the winding road.

Absolutely lovely overall.

Kelly M.

Kinderhook, New York

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2011 - My husband and I stayed in Villa Irina for a week in October 2011. The villa was fabulous! It was perfect for two. It was super clean and homey.

We used the beautiful kitchen every night which had everything we needed. We ate all of our meals out on the terrace which had a spectacular view overlooking the sea and Positano.

We greatly appreciated the homemade wine, fruit and homemade jam that the owners left for us!

Summer in Itay did a great job. Everything went very smoothly, I will definitely use them again!

Travel tips

  • There are a lot of steps which is typical for Positano.
  • Walk up the steps from the villa and turn right to access a grocery store, fruit market, meat market and bus stop. Turn left to access a great fish market. The best local wine at the gorcer was only 3.50!!
  • Use the ferries to visit Sorrento, Amalfi, Capri and Ravello, they're resonable and the views are amazing. I do not recommend the bus, they're packed and terrifying.

James T.

Norwood, MA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2011 - Villa Irina was great. From the moment we arrived we could not have been more pleased. The house was well stocked with a great kitchen and the terrace just speaks for itself.

Many nights the restaurants down the hillside have live music and the position of the villa on the mountainside served as an amphitheater of sorts funneling the music up for our enjoyment while we ate or had a glass of wine looking at the sea.

The owners greeted us upon arrival and Giovanni, against my badgering, insisted on carrying our large suitcase up the 104 or so stairs to the villa, which he did without even a pause on the stairs. Needless to say we were both impressed by his feat of strength and endurance and we were equally impressed by the amazing homemade wine and fig jam Rita left for us to enjoy during our stay.

We cooked almost all of our morning and evening meals at the villa and usually had lunch on the beach. The kitchen is a huge selling point and allows plenty of space to cook very nice meals with fresh ingredients obtained from the local markets.

Villa Irina met or exceeded our expectations throughout our stay and that amazing terrace provided the perfect spot for us to get engaged wrapping up a most enjoyable stay. I would definitely recommend Villa Irina as a place to spend your vacation while in Positano.

Renting through Summer in Italy was easy and efficient and the communication was great. We look forward to using Summer in Italy when we return to Italy for our next visit in the near future.

Travel tips

  • The biggest suggestion we have is relax and enjoy yourself because the villa is a great place to do it.
  • Use the two markets at the top of the steps from the villa to food shop. They are convenient and between the two, likely have everything you will need for your stay. We shopped daily and cooked almost every meal at the villa: the terrace is just too good to let go to waste.
  • For the morning, there is also a local bar/cafe right next to the markets where you can get some amazing fresh pastries to have with your coffee/tea. This spot is also the closest place to catch the buses to Sorrento or Amalfi.
  • Going to the beach, take stairs down when you can and walk the roads back if the trek up the stairs is too difficult. The roads, although inclined, are very manageable.
  • At the beach, it is about 12 Euro a person for chairs and an umbrella for the day and well worth the expense. There are plenty of places to grab food close by and they do offer beachside service. Finally, the beach is a bit rocky and the type of sand present can get very hot, so if you own water shoes they are worth packing.
  • We had our last meal at Restaurant Il Capitano, a lovely restaurant overlooking the sea. The food is great and plentiful. The seafood soup appetizer could easily be a meal for most people. For a romantic dinner with a priceless view it can't be beat.

Philip B.

Ipwich

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2011 - We really enjoyed Villa Irina it was a real Italian experience with the wonderful welcome we had from the owner who'd lived there forever. The lovely homemade wine, marmalade and bowl of fruit was a lovely touch. Her son carried our cases up the many steps and sorted out the parking of our car.

Kitchen was so well equipped that you didn't need to eat out every day. To peer over the balcony and to see that someone was drying tomatoes peppers and figs was a pleasure. No sooner had we arrived home did we wish we were back on the sunbed wine in hand relishing the view.

The only minus was the water pressure in the showers having said that would return.

We were very pleased with Summer in Italy the emails prior to our trip and a very honest account of the villa. Would use your company again. Thank you all.

Travel tips

  • Boat trip to Capri from Positano a must, then hire a scooter once you've gone up the funicular and walk through the town past the bus stop on the right, take a spin of the Island.
  • Jump on a bus up to Montepertuso for a meal at Restaurant Il Ritrovo, a delight, and then walk back down to Positano!

Angela J.

Keynsham

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2011 - We loved the villa and the owners were lovely.

Summer in Italy gave excellent instructions prompt reply to e-mails. We would use Summer in Italy again. Many thanks.

Travel tips

  • We loved the restaurant at the top of the stairs (turn left). Sorry can not remember the name of this great place.

Harri K.

Helsinki

Finland

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2011 - We enjoyed our stay very much. The view overlooking the roofs to the Mediterranean were marvelous.

Travel tips

  • If you are afraid of walking a lot of steps, you should avoid this destination.
  • For take away pizza lovers there is a good restaurant with decent prices just up the steps from the house, to the left on the street after the steps.

Carole L.

Miscouche

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2011 - We really enjoyed our stay at Villa Irina. Everything was perfect and was just like the pics on your website! We had everything we needed and the Villa was so clean and bright.

We even got used to all the stairs which helped keep us in shape. We had restaurants and grocery stores and even a butcher shop close by. We cooked almost all our meals at the Villa since we had such a great kitchen and it was so pleasant to eat outside on the beautiful terrace with such a great view.

Rita and Giovanni [the owners] were very helpful and kind. They even left us some lemons, a bottle of water and homemade wine which was to die for!!

Thank you so much Luca and Summer in Italy for such a wonderful stay. We will definitely return to Villa Irina.

Travel tips

  • The only advice would be to walk down to the beach by way of the stairs or the road and return by way of the local bus. Get off one street higher than the Villa and walk down the stairs. And since all the stores that we shopped at were on the street above, we took this opportunity to buy anything we needed before going down to the villa.
  • We also took the bus to Nocelle and had lunch there... wonderful view from high above. We at Restaurant Santa Croce. Very good.

Jennifer D.

London

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2011 - Wonderful place to stay. Lots of steps, though, not perfect if travelling with elderly or people who can't climb stairs.

Kenneth J.

Ada, MI

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2011 - This was our first experience with Summers In Italy and Villa Irina. The apartment was absolutely beautiful and it's obvious that it's been meticulously maintained.

We were greeted by Mr. Giovanni [the owner] promptly and he helped us carry our luggage to the apartment. We found a bottle of wine, fresh cherries and homemade orange marmalade in the kitchen. Very thoughtful indeed.

We were thrilled to have Internet access as well as a washing machine in the apartment.

Views from apartment are nothing short of breathtaking.

We look forward to returning to Positano and Villa Irina.

Thanks for the fast, efficient and pain-free booking service! We look forward to booking with you again and recommending your service to friends and family.

Travel tips

  • We took several trips during our stay. Some were better than others... notable trips were to Amalfi and Ravello.

Jill S.

Fort Worth, TX

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2011 - Giovanni and Rita were perfect hosts. The villa was fully stocked - we could have hosted a large party with all of the kitchen stuff they had in there. They also gave us a bottle of their wine, some lemons and some homemade orange marmalade.

The villa was beautiful; even better than the website pictures. Everything worked perfectly and we had no reason to call on Giovanni while we were there. He arranged the porter to come get our bags when we left and we appreciated that. We were not prepared (even though everyone talks about it) for the steepness of the stairs, but as Villa Irina is almost halfway between two streets, we were able to avoid going up by catching the bus at the bottom of the stairs and getting off at the top.

Villa Irina made our first trip to Positano one of the most memorable vacations we have ever taken - we were very glad we chose it and Summer in Italy for our 25th anniversary trip.

Summer in Italy was a joy to work with. Very professional, very thorough, and very responsive. We were absolutely thrilled with the entire experience and thought we got excellent value for our money.

Travel tips

  • Arrange for a porter before you leave - when we got there, they weren't around and we had to wait until one showed up.
  • We were also surprised that there was no bus or taxi stop at the marina - you have to walk into town and it's a pretty good hike. [the marina of Positano is not accesible by car]
  • Stop at the tourist info office, get a bus schedule, and make them explain the different busses to you. Everything is much easier when you have that figured out.
  • We would not recommend Il Capitano - a restaurant with an incredible view. We saved it for our last night and had the worst service we have ever had at a restaurant. Other than that we did not have a bad meal or a bad experience with anyone.
  • It was quite possibly the best vacation we have ever had.

Flemming N.

Melby

Denmark

VERIFIED

Excellent

April 2011 - Villa Irina is a very pleasant apartment, nice and with a splendid view. Everything is clean and proper and the kitchen has a lot of equipment.

The owners are very friendly and helpful.

Now we have rented 2 apartments through your bureau. We have been very satisfied and we will surely be looking in "Summer in Italy" next time were are going to Italy.

Travel tips

  • There is 158 steps up to the road and the shops and the bus stop Chiesa Nuova, and 125 steps down to the road leading downtown. Therefore you have to be in good shape and prepared for the many steps and that everything must be carried to Villa Irina.

Rachel O.

Leeds

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2010 - Fabulous villa with everything you could ask for.

The owner even provided extras such as dish washing tablets and washing liquid for the washing machine which you wouldn't usually expect. Complementary wine and water and fresh tomatoes and lemons.

Would definitely stay again.

Booking with Summer in Italy was an easy enjoyable experience. I appreciated your up to date emails and felt that you were genuinely concerned that we enjoyed our stay in Italy, again, thank you for everything. I will book again!!!

Travel tips

  • Walking into Positano is a lovely walk. If you want to save your legs on the way up, catch the interno bus back to Bar Internazionale, carry on walking 50 yards or so up the same road and then you can take the steps down to the villa instead of having to walk up steps from the lower road!!!

Sharon B.

Gateshead

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2010 - I had a fabulous holiday in Villa Irina. The villa was clean well equipped, well situated and had beautiful views from the balcony.

The owners were very helpful, and did their best to make our stay there very pleasant.

I would also recommend Summer in Italy, the staff are professional and very helpful. Thank you. I will be using Summer in Italy next year.

Travel tips

  • Lots of steps but well worth it.

Sylvie B.

St-Augustin

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2010 - We loved Villa Irina. It was very clean and we have been welcomed warmly.

We took advantage of the terrace and we ate several meals there.

We are very satisfied with the services of Summer In Italy.

Travel tips

  • You must be physically fit because there are many steps up.

Joseph C.

Woodbury, Connecticut

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2010 - Villa Irina was all that we were told it was on the web site and more! It was very relaxing, clean and comfortable. The view from the porch is breathtaking.

The owners Giovanni and Rita are lovely people and we enjoyed the tray of fresh figs and bottle of lemoncello immensely!! The bottle of home made wine and fruit were way over top!!

You will get use to the stairs to the apartment because all there is in Positano is stairs.

If we could visit Positano every year, we would spend it at Villa Irina, and we will be back for sure!

This was our first rental with Summer in Italy. You did what you said you would and represented the property honestly. Bravo!

Travel tips

  • Villa Irina will give you the morning sun and the late afternoon shade on your porch. Its location is central on the mountain, close to 2 grocery stores up the stairs, and great places to eat everywhere.
  • Make sure you eat at Restaurant Il Ritrovo. They have a fabulous morning cooking class you can get in on. Well worth the money!
  • Take the orange interno bus. You can get it and be dropped off at the bottom of the stairs at vlla Irina.
  • Ravello is a must see. Take a boat to Amalfi then the bus to Ravello.

Ben R.

Wantagh, NY

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2010 - Villa Irina was wonderful. Rita and Giovanni [the owners] were very gracious and the homemade wine and marmalade as well as other touches were great.

We used the kitchen quick extensively as I love to cook. After a few days the steps up to the villa as well as the steps up to to shopping became a good source of exercise for us. They can be daunting to some people. Every evening we would sit on the terrace with our wine and cheese and enjoy the view and atmosphere. We met Rita's son who did all of the detail decoration in the villa and I must say, he did a wonderful job. They are a gracious family.

Overall we really enjoyed our stay at Villa Irina and would recommend it to everyone

You guys were great. There were no surprises. What you presented on your web site is exactly what we had. It was a wonderful experience working with you and we will be back.

Travel tips

  • My advice for future guests is to pack lightly as you have a great washing machine and the cloths lines are on the terrace.
  • The steps can be a challenge for some. We walked everywhere, but you can take a bus that runs down to the main section of town.
  • Use the markets at the top of Viale Pasitea. It is up 151 steps from the apartment and make a right. Wonderful vegetable market and butcher, as well as several good all purpose food stores, and the people are wonderful.
  • Take a ferry to Amalfi and Sorrento and from Amalfi, go up to Ravello by bus.
  • The beach was great, and is a 20 minute walk from the villa.
  • If you like ceramics, check out Maria Grazia. Two locations. One by the parking lot at the town square, and one up Viale Colombo. Great stuff and Pasquale is a very gracious guy.
  • Check out Restaurant Chez Black down by the beach. Great food.
  • Restaurant Saraceno D'Oro was also great as we ate there the first night and it is close by. Down the steps and make a left and there it is.

Frederick B.

Baltimore, MD

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2010 - Everything was fantastic and you were very responsive. I would definitely recommend to others and use it again!

Michael P.

Brooklyn, NY

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2010 - Villa Irina felt like home. The view from the terrace is spectacular and the location and neighborhood were perfect for us.

There was nothing so satisfying as coming back from a day at the beach armed with fresh food products, climbing up all those steps, and then cooking everything up in the kitchen.

Rita and Giovanni were the best hosts and we were greeted with local wine, olive oil, and lemons when we arrived.

We were so sad to leave and can't wait to come back!

Jennifer M.

Brisbane

Australia

VERIFIED

Excellent

April 2010 - We really enjoyed our stay in Positano and having this wonderfully clean and comfortable Villa to return to in the evening was great.

We were able to buy some fresh produce and do a little of our own cooking when we wanted to do so. There were lovely restaurants just down the road. The walk to the beach/restaurants was easy and the local bus cheap and frequent to take us back up the hill.

Car parking was literally 2 mins walk down the road so our day trips were not a hassle either.

Our hosts were delightful and very helpful. They explained everything and then let us be to enjoy our holiday.

Thank you for all your help with our holiday.

Georgene G.

Arden Hills, Minnesota

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2009 - We loved it! It was very, very clean and the owners left fresh roses, olive oil, wine, soda, potatoes, coffee and spices for our use. It was so well equipped and Rita [the owner] was very helpful.

The apartment was decorated beautifully and it was very large. We really enjoyed sitting on the terrace amongst the flowers and just taking in the view!

Travel tips

  • The steps are very intimidating (110) but take them 20 at a time and soon it will not seem so steep. Sometimes we would walk down to the village and take the bus back.
  • If going to other towns, use the boats over and buy Sita 24-hour bus passes for going to the other towns.

Andrew N.

Waltham, MA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2009 - We loved Villa Irina.

Mrs. Rita [the owner] was fantastic. They left us some home made wine and marmalade and some of their garden figs and tomatoes.

Travel tips

  • There are lots of stairs. However, we made it a point to walk all the way down to the beach and back up to the villa. By doing that we ate everything we wanted and did not gain any weight.

Amy G.

Chevy Chase, MD

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2009 - Villa Irina exceeded our expectations: it was an absolute pleasure to spend time there and enjoy all that Positano has to offer!

Our landlord, Mrs. Rita, went "above and beyond" to ensure that the villa was clean, well appointed, and offered every amenity. Even though her English skills were limited, we were able to communicate with her when we needed to by contacting the team at Summer in Italy, Luca and Alfano, who acted as translators. Our situation was unique, because our bags didn't arrive for the first 2.5 days, but Luca and his team stepped in and helped locate the bags and have the airport deliver them to us (no small feat considering the geography)!

I can't say enough about Summer in Italy. The whole experience was positive -- the staff were professional, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile for us. Thank you so much for an incredible vacation: we hope to return to Positano soon! I would recommend creating a Facebook link for Summer in Italy fans to connect to on their FB pages!

“Thank you so much for your very kind words!! And indeed a Facebook group has been created for fans to connect :-)„

Travel tips

  • For travelers to Positano, the only drawback is getting there. The best thing to do is to minimize the number of transfers in your travel (especially in terms of airline connections). We recommend flying to a major airport, collecting your bags, and taking the train to Sorrento. From there, you can take the SITA bus to Positano, but you have to expect mass confusion when you arrive in Positano (if, like us, you don't speak Italian). The bus stop for Villa Irina is the second one as you're coming into Positano from Sorrento, but it's really hard to get the driver to stop at the correct bus stop. Once you figure it out, you'll be fine, but if it's your first time going there, chances are you will miss the correct bus stop the first time around unless you speak fluent Italian! That said, it's still worth it because it's such a gorgeous place. Just expect a bit of confusion when you arrive, and you'll be able to handle it.

Brenda S.

Frisco

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2009 - We really enjoyed Villa Irina. The view was spectacular and the balcony was huge.

The villa is very close to the bus stop and the grocery store.

Overall we were very pleased!

Norman V.

White Rock

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2009 - Villa Irina is a wonderful villa that had everything one could want in Positano.

Rita & Giovanni were very helpful and offered any help of assistance when asked.

There are a lot of step to climb, (approx 100) from the street to the villa and that might be a problem for those with physical challenges. For us, it was great exercise and a way to work off some of the great meals that we enjoyed in the area.

We would not hesitate to come back to Villa Irina and we would recommend Villa Irina to our friends

Albert V.

Glen Waverley

Australia

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2009 - We had a wonderful, relaxing time in Villa Irina.

The owners were very welocming and helpful.

We booked with Summer in Italy because it catered for apartments with reasonable rates. They were very helpful with questions via email. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

Travel tips

  • Everything is in walking distance, so long as you are prepared to go up and down steps, but even that is good fun.
  • Take a bus to Amalfi and then to Ravello for a day trip - stunning and a trip to Capri is also beautiful.

Roberta K.

Munich

Germany

VERIFIED

Excellent

April 2009 - We loved it! The apartment was perfect and very clean!

The only thing we could say is that the bed was a weee bit on the hard side.

Summer In Italy were great in organizing our last minute rental!

Travel tips

  • Restaurants we really enjoyed in Positano: Ristorante Da Bruno, the pizza place just down the steps and to the left just before the Ristorante Mediterraneo (the BEST pizza!!), on the beach Buca di Bacco -- great food, very friendly. Well, everyone is friendly!
  • In Amalfi: for the BEST fisherman's risotto, Trattoria da Baracca. on the Piazza dei Dogi. Wonderful! And Giovanni, the singer/guitarist is fun to listen to while you eat. He sings the classic songs of the south.
  • Definitely go to Capri!! We booked with the red top cabin on the beach. It was well worth it!
  • Ravello is a must. Villa Cimbrone!
  • Wine and Drugs is a great wine store for a tasting! (the drugs are the olive oil, etc.!!). The cafe/restaurant/small hotel on the walk up to the Villa Cimbrone is not worth eating at. However, the view is nice, but it's better from the gardens at the Villa. So, only a drink there, if you must.
  • Pompeii: a MUST! But do not waste any time in the restaurants outside the site. Total ripoff!

Lawrence M.

Melbourne

Australia

VERIFIED

Excellent

February 2009 - It actually had more facilities than those advertised.

Villa Irina is run by a very genuine couple, Giovanni and Rita. They live underneath but this in no way intruded into our privacy. They were, on the other hand, there if we needed them. Giovanni was an excellent host and Rita (though we only saw her twice) had left the apartment in excellent shape. In particular we ere quite touched by the many little extras she had thought about for the kitchen.

In retrospect I would probably not go again quite as early in the year as the town is all but shut down and the weather was cool to cold - though locals and those we spoke to in Naples told us the weather was considerably colder than usual. Nonetheless, we'd probably opt next time for late March. Of course the experience would be very different in full summer but we really wanted the relative peace and quiet - and as Australians, the 'beaches' really don't have a lot to offer. Out-of-summer stays are great if you really enjoy each other's company and are not necessarily looking for lots of other excitement.

Travel tips

  • Positano itself is quite extraordinary - as are the towns further down the coast - especially Amalfi - all in easy reach by the SITA bus which travels up down these amazing roads on a regular basis. You can buy bus tickets at the local Tabacchi (not on the bus).
  • The trip from Naples on the Circumvesuviana local train with connecting SITA bus at Sorrento works very well. Buy a 180 minute ticket from the Tabacchi at Naples railway station - quite cheap.

Unfortunately, Villa Irina can not be booked at this time.

We would love to help you find a suitable alternative. Please be in touch for personal advice from our staff!