Limoncello is a traditional and, in recent times, very popular Italian liqueur made from lemon peels, alcohol, water, and sugar. Lemon, which you can find in every angle of Amalfi Coast, is the main ingredient, and it is the reason why limoncello got its name. In the past, it was originally made on the Amalfi Coast, particularly in Positano and Sorrento, but nowadays, you can find it across all Mediterranean countries in Europe. This refreshing drink is known for its intense taste and sweet flavor, and there is a good reason why you will see plenty of it in Positano. 

The whole region around Positano has a unique microclimate and fertile soil which contribute to growing high-quality lemons, so this area is the perfect location for limoncello production. When you visit Amalfi Coast, you will find many local producers who even offer tours and can guide you through the making process. If you don’t have time for that, you can still taste the limoncello in every restaurant and bar or purchase a bottle and take this amazing drink to your home.

Where to buy limoncello in Positano?

When strolling along the tiny, steep streets of Positano, you might wonder where to buy limoncello, the most popular lemon liqueur in Italy. Well, one of the best places to purchase this wonderful drink is at the various local shops. There, you can find dozens of limoncello bottles in different shapes and sizes. A few shops that sell limoncello and are worth mentioning are Valenti Positano, Emporio della Ceramica, and Sapori e Profumi di Positano. These stores not only offer authentic limoncello bottles but also provide other items worth checking out, like ceramics, souvenirs and handcrafts.

Wonder how much this refreshing product will cost you? As with everything in Positano, limoncello is also pretty expensive. The average price of limoncello in Positano can vary depending on the quality and the size of the bottle. On average, you can expect to pay between €15 to €25 for a standard-sized bottle. However, there are also premium options that can cost more. If you want to save a bit, we advise buying limoncello online from the website and shipping it to your home address.  When selecting a bottle, consider the size you want to take home, especially if you are traveling by plane. Typically, a 100 ml bottle is ideal for travel and makes for a great souvenir or gift.

As for how long one bottle lasts, it largely depends on how often and how much you drink it. Usually, a 500 ml bottle can last several weeks to a couple of months if enjoyed normally. It is worth noting that limoncello is best served chilled and in small quantities, making it a perfect after-dinner digestif. Even though it is a bit expensive, you should buy a limoncello in Positano. Remember, you are not only purchasing a liqueur but also a piece of the Amalfi Coast’s rich culinary heritage.

Where to drink limoncello in Positano?

If you want to drink a glass of limoncello in Positano, you should try La Sponda at Le Sirenuse Hotel and Next2 for a modern twist or La Tagliata for a rustic experience. For those looking for an authentic experience, there are many local bars and cafes that offer limoncello as a complimentary digestif after dinner. Some of them even produce their own house-made versions, using lemons from nearby groves. If you want to learn more about this popular drink, consider joining a limoncello-tasting tour or taking a cooking class that includes limoncello production.

Just like limoncello in shops, one glass of this drink in restaurants and bars is a bit high. You should expect to pay from €5 to €12 per glass, depending on the venue and the quality of the ingredients. Still, this is a normal price for cocktails in tourist parts of Italy, so the price is not that bad. You can probably find cheaper ones in Naples or Rome, but the price is pretty much the same along the Amalfi Coast and on Capri and Ischia islands. As we mentioned above, limoncello is usually served as a digestif after dinner. However, it is also a great pair with lemon-based desserts, biscotti, and traditional Italian pastries.

Is trying or buying limoncello in Positano worth it?

Trying or buying limoncello in Positano is really worth it, and here are a few reasons why. Sipping on limoncello while enjoying stunning coastal views is an experience that will always stay in your memory. Furthermore, limoncello has an amazing yellow color, so it looks so cool in photos and videos. Believe us, photos with limoncello are more unique than those with other cocktails because it is not so common to drink limoncello in other touristic places across the globe. 

If that didn’t convince you, here is another reason. Drinking limoncello is an opportunity to support local businesses and say “thank you” to locals. We know that limoncello is pretty expensive, so you can always consider purchasing smaller bottles as souvenirs, which are often more affordable and still offer an original taste. But how do you know if you like the taste of limoncello? Well, it is advisable to order a small amount of limoncello for the first time or to split one drink with your partner. 

How to make limoncello at home?

If you have liked limoncello (or lemoncello how many call it) so much that you want to make one at your home, the recipe is surprisingly simple. You can make delicious homemade limoncello with only a few ingredients and some patience by following the step-by-step guide. First, you will need about 10 to 12 organic lemons, one liter of vodka and 3 cups of sugar. Make sure the lemons are unwaxed and thoroughly cleaned. The choice of vodka is very important because a high-quality vodka will yield a smoother limoncello. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest from the lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.

The zest is what gives limoncello its distinctive yellow color and intense lemon flavor. Next, combine the lemon zest and vodka in a large, sealable jar. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks, shaking it gently every few days. This infusion period allows the vodka to absorb the essential oils from the lemon zest, creating the base. After two weeks, prepare a simple syrup by dissolving the sugar in 4 cups of water over low heat. Let the syrup cool completely before adding it to the lemon-infused vodka.

Finally, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the zest, transfer your limoncello into bottles and seal them tightly. Allow the limoncello to rest for another week to let the flavors meld together. And voila, you have your own homemade limoncello. This recipe is a typical way to make limoncello, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zest.

Check out more articles about Positano:

• Best restaurants in Positano
• Where to shop in Positano?
• Cheap eats in Positano
• Things to do in Positano Italy