How many steps down to Positano?

Roughly 1,500 stone steps, though some sources count up to 1,700. They are steep and relentless, especially on tired legs after a 3-hour hike. Most people take 30–45 minutes. Alternatively, a small local bus (Nocelle to Positano) is also available if your knees have had enough.

Steps~1,500 to 1,700

Time30–45 minutes

DifficultySteep, relentless

Your kneesWill feel it

AlternativeSmall local bus (~10 min)

Bus costA few euros

The reality of the steps

The Path of the Gods ends at Nocelle, a small village perched on a hillside. Positano is far below, down the cliff. The only way down on foot is roughly 1,500 stone steps (counts vary; some say 1,700, some say fewer). They are steep — there are long flights with barely a break. The steps are often slippery (algae, moss, or loose gravel), and by the time you reach them after a 3-hour walk, your quads and knees are already tired.

Most people take 30–45 minutes on the steps. The fit do it faster; people with knee issues go slower or rest often. You can sit on the steps whenever you need to catch your breath — plenty of hikers do.

Take the bus instead?

A small local bus runs Nocelle → Positano throughout the day. It takes about 10 minutes, costs just a few euros, and gets you down without the knee punishment. Many hikers walk the path, admire the views from Nocelle, then catch the bus down. There is no shame in it, and your knees will thank you.

Simply ask at a Nocelle bar for the bus stop and timetable, or ask your guide if you are on a tour.

Why not just go Nocelle to Bomerano and avoid the steps?

You could. But that route is mostly uphill and harder work. Starting from Bomerano saves your knees for the steps at the end (or the bus option). If you are fit and fresh, the uphill works, but if you are tired or have knee issues, the downhill-first approach wins.

See where the Path of the Gods starts and ends for a full explanation of the route options.

Gear for the steps

Poles. Hiking poles (trekking poles) take pressure off your knees on the descent. Many guided tour operators provide them.
Shoes with grip. Steep steps and potentially slippery surfaces mean your shoes need a good sole. Grip trainers work, but light hiking shoes are better.
Water. You need to have drunk most of your water by Nocelle, but a small reserve is good for the steps.
Breaks. It is fine to sit and rest. Many hikers stop every 5–10 minutes.

Frequently asked questions

How many steps are there down from Nocelle?

Roughly 1,500, though some counts go to 1,700. They are steep and relentless. Most people take 30–45 minutes.

Can I take a bus instead of walking the steps?

Yes. A small local bus runs Nocelle to Positano. It takes ~10 minutes and costs just a few euros. Many hikers do this after the main hike.

How long do the steps take?

30–45 minutes for most people. Fit hikers do it faster; people with knee issues go slower. You can rest on the steps whenever you like.

Are the steps hard on knees?

Yes. After a 3-hour walk, your legs are tired and the steep descent adds stress. Hiking poles help a lot if you have them. Take breaks and go at your own pace.

Should I hike Bomerano to Nocelle or the reverse to avoid the steps?

Hike Bomerano to Nocelle. You go downhill and toward the views. The reverse is mostly uphill and harder. The steps (or bus) at the end are unavoidable either way.