alghero travel guide

Alghero Sardinia – The Ultimate Travel Guide (From A Local) 2024

Nestled in the heart of the crystalline Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia beckons with its untamed landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and sun-kissed shores. This enchanting Italian island is heaven for those seeking an authentic and diverse escape. In this ultimate Alghero travel guide , we’ll explore everything you need to know before you go. Find insider tips such as where to eat in Alghero, the best beaches near Alghero, how to get around in Sardinia, and the best things to do in Alghero.

The Ultimate Alghero Travel Guide - An Introduction to Sardinia

Let’s start with a small introduction to Sardinia, the second-largest island in Italy. Sardinia is popular for its wild landscapes, historic tails, and stunning beaches. Most importantly, it’s Francesca’s birthplace! We’ve been to most parts of the island, swam in its most beautiful coves, tasted the most authentic dishes, and visited historic cities like Castelsardo and Cagliari .

Ultimately we fell in love with Alghero, a lovely town on the North Coast, and decided to buy a house there.

If you plan to visit Alghero then come and stay at our home !

DM us on Instagram or Facebook to get in contact with us directly.

Codice IUN: R2211

Sardinia: A Tapestry of Nature

Sardinia’s landscape is a masterpiece crafted by nature itself. From rugged coastlines adorned with towering cliffs to serene beaches with sugar-white sand and azure waters. Inland, rolling hills covered in aromatic maquis, ancient cork oak forests, and granite peaks create a diverse and captivating terrain. Nature reserves like Gennargentu National Park offer a glimpse into the island’s unspoiled beauty, showcasing rare flora and fauna.

“Life in Sardinia is perhaps the best that a man could wish for: twenty-four thousand kilometers of forests, countryside, and coasts immersed in a miraculous sea should coincide with what I would advise the good Lord to give us as Paradise.” ~Fabrizio De André~

Timeless Traditions and Heritage

Sardinia’s rich history is woven into its very fabric, evident in the ancient archaeological sites that dot the island. Nuraghe structures, mysterious and ancient stone towers, stand as silent sentinels, telling tales of the island’s prehistoric past.

Culinary Delights

Sardinian cuisine is a gastronomic journey that reflects the island’s unique identity. From the iconic “porceddu” (roast suckling pig) to the savory “culurgiones” (traditional pasta filled with potato and cheese), every meal is a celebration of local flavors. Sardinian wines, with Vermentino and Cannonau leading the way, add a perfect touch to your culinary experience.

Island Adventures Await

Sardinia is a destination that invites exploration and promises unforgettable moments. Whether you’re seeking tranquility on secluded beaches, hiking the ancient trails, or immersing yourself in local festivities, this Mediterranean gem is sure to leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

5 Reasons why Alghero is worth visiting

In this ultimate Alghero travel guide, we’ll focus on providing detailed travel information on Alghero and its surroundings. Alghero is a medieval town located on the northwest coast of Sardinia and it’s often referred to as “Barceloneta” for its Catalan influences. While it has long been a top holiday destination for Italians, Alghero is becoming increasingly popular among international visitors thanks to its beautiful old town, pristine waters, and culinary delights.

Is Alghero worth visiting ?

A Sardinia trip, including Alghero, is a must on your European bucket list.

Here are 5 reasons why Alghero is worth visiting:

The coastline surrounding Alghero hosts picturesque beaches, hidden coves, and rugged cliffs. Its crystal-clear waters are inviting to relax on sandy shores or explore the diverse marine life through snorkeling and boat excursions.

Alghero’s Old Town is a well-preserved medieval masterpiece, with Catalan-Aragonese architecture, cobblestone streets, and ancient ramparts.

Alghero is a haven for food lovers, with its seafood-focused cuisine and a blend of Sardinian and Catalan flavors, such as “aragosta alla catalana “(Catalan-style lobster). Local pasta varieties such as “fregola” and “malloreddus” are popular, and traditional Sardinian pastries like “seadas” add a sweet touch.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, hiker, or water sports lover, Alghero caters to various outdoor interests. Explore the scenic trails of the Capo Caccia cliffs, go diving in the marine reserves, or simply enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coastal paths.

Alghero serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader region of northwest Sardinia. From the iconic Asinara National Park to the charming villages of Bosa and Castelsardo, the town offers convenient access to a wealth of diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.

How to get to Alghero

What’s Alghero’s nearest Airport?

The nearest airport to Alghero is Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO), located approximately 10 kilometers from the town.

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Ground transportation options are readily available at the airport, including taxis and rental car services , ensuring convenient onward journeys for visitors

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The ARST bus company provides frequent rides to/from Alghero town. Bus tickets can be purchased at the automatic machine in the terminal hall.

While bus services are efficient, we recommend renting a car while in Alghero. This option would allow you to be flexible with timing and the possibility of exploring wider areas of Sardinia. Renting a car in Alghero is the best option for most visitors.

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Can you spend a week in Alghero without a car?

Yes, you can spend a week in Alghero without a car. In the city, there is a bus service, but outside there is limited public transport. That means you will limit your things to do and see. If you plan to just chill at the nearest beach and maybe book an excursion , then you will be fine. Doing more without renting a car in Alghero is feasible, but it requires extra planning.

The 10 best things to do in Alghero

Alghero offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to various interests, from history and culture to outdoor adventures and culinary experiences. In this ultimate Alghero travel guide, we gathered the top things to do in Alghero.

Here are the 10 best things to do in Alghero:

• Explore the Old Town
• Enjoy the Sunsets
• Visit Neptune’s Grotto
• Indulge in Local Cuisine
• Relax on Alghero’s Beaches
• Diving & Snorkelling
• Visit Nuraghe Palmavera
• Enjoy Nature at Porto Conte Natural Park
• Horseback Riding at Lake Baratz
• Visit the Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju

1) Explore the Old Town

Explore Alghero’s Old Town with a Local Guide . Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Alghero’s Old Town, characterized by medieval architecture, historic buildings, and ancient “Bastioni”, the city’s defensive walls. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the various churches and squares that showcase the town’s rich history.

2) Enjoy the Sunsets

Alghero boasts some of the most spectacular sunsets in the Mediterranean. The Bastioni Marco Polo, the town’s seafront ramparts, provide a perfect vantage point to witness the sun sinking into the Gulf of Alghero. Likewise, at Belvedere di Capocaccia, you get some amazing sea views with Foradada Island.

3) Visit Neptune’s Grotto

Take a boat trip or descend the scenic cliffside staircase to explore Neptune’s Grotto (Grotta di Nettuno). Neptune’s Grotto is a remarkable natural cave formation that has been shaped by the action of water over thousands of years. Impressive stalactites and stalagmites characterize the cave, creating a mesmerizing underground landscape.

4) Indulge in Local Cuisine

Alghero is a culinary delight, offering a blend of Sardinian and Catalan flavors. Try seafood specialties or sample traditional Sardinian dishes in the town’s restaurants. Wine & Olive Oil tasting at Local Farms and Sardinian Home Cooking Classes would be the perfect way to experience authentic cuisine. 

5) Relax on Alghero’s Beaches

Enjoy the sun and sea on the beautiful beaches surrounding Alghero. Maria Pia, Lazzaretto with its coves, Mugoni, and Bombarde are among the popular choices, each offering its unique charm and crystal-clear waters.

6) Diving and Snorkelling

Alghero is a great diving destination. The clear waters allow for good visibility. Moreover, there are countless grottoes, canyons, and cliffs which make the diving experience unforgettable. Finally, Alghero is located close to an area that is very rich in marine biodiversity. For those who just wish to snorkel, there are plenty of options available such as the popular Snorkelling Tour or the Sailboat experience with lunch .

7) Visit Nuraghe Palmavera

If you like history, why not discover a bit of Nuragic civilization? The Nuraghe is the main type of ancient megalithic edifice found in Sardinia, developed during the Nuragic Age between 1900 and 730 B.C. Do not miss the Nuraghe Palmavera, just a few minutes away from Alghero.

8) Visit the Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju

Anghelu Ruju is the largest pre-Nuragic necropolis in Sardinia. The necropolis was discovered casually in 1903 during the construction of a farmhouse in Sella&Mosca wine makers’ property. If you decide to visit both this site and Nuraghe Palmavera, it is possible to get combined tickets.

9) Enjoy Nature at Porto Conte Natural Park

We recommend an excursion to Porto Conte Natural Park and the “Prigionette Oasis”, notoriously known as “Noah’s Ark”. This is one of the most biodiversity-rich areas of Sardinia. Prigionette-Porto Conte can be visited all year round. There are facilities available at the entrance such as info points, washrooms, rental bikes, picnic areas, and playgrounds. One of the most popular tours at Porto Conte is the Guided Quad Bike Tour which is a fun activity and goes beyond Porto Conte to Porto Ferro, but it does not include the Prigionette Oasis. To explore wider zones of the park it is possible to rent a golf car .

10) Horseback Riding at Lake Baratz

Explore Sardinia’s unforgettable natural scenery on horseback. Ride around Lake Baratz , the only natural lake on the island, then down to Porto Ferro Beach for stunning views and ocean spray.

3 of the Top Alghero Hotels Near the Beach

Alghero’s long stretch of coast hosts multiple hotels and B&Bs. Here are 3 of the Top Alghero Hotels near the beach:

1) Hotel Alguer

Hotel Alguer is one of the most popular hotels in Alghero and it is rated as “Superb” on Booking.com . Enjoy the beachfront location close to Maria Pia beach and the old town, as well as helpful staff and tasty breakfast.

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2) Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA

Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA features an outdoor pool with panoramic views over the Gulf of Alghero. Set 10 minutes’ walk from Alghero Centre, it offers an indoor salt-water pool, a hot tub, and a gym.

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3) Carlos V

Set 50 metres from the charming Bay of Alghero, Carlos V Hotel features a sea-view rooftop restaurant and outdoor pool. All rooms have a balcony, and parking is free. Hotel Carlos V is approximately 1 km from the historical center, and a 20-minute walk from the nearest sandy beach.

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If you wish to have a place to stay that is all for you then why not choose our Airbnb? The house is located in a peaceful area in the heart of the Porto Conte Regional Park, surrounded by nature and close to the most beautiful beaches of the Coral Riviera: Le Bombarde, Il Lazzaretto, and Mugoni. Additionally, there is a beach within walking distance nearby.

Porto Conte Bayview House

Porto Conte Bayview House has been recently renovated with new furniture and air conditioning and can host up to 6 people. Our guests can enjoy a small patio, a fully equipped kitchen, a large living room, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a beautiful sea view. You can look up the house in the link below

Look at Porto Conte Bayview House

Taverna Porto Conte

Taverna Porto Conte is a cozy apartment that can host up to 3 people. Guests can enjoy a garden for al fresco dining, a double bedroom with air conditioning, a kitchen with a sofa bed, and a bathroom.

Look at Taverna Porto Conte

If you wish to inquiry about our property, please contact us directly at [email protected] or on Instagram or Facebook

Here are the best beaches near Alghero

We have briefly mentioned that Alghero has beautiful beaches. Now let’s look at these in detail. 

Here are the best beaches near Alghero: 

• Lazzaretto Beach
• Lazzaretto Coves

1) Maria Pia

Maria Pia is the nicest beach closer to town. A backdrop of pine forests characterizes the landscape, providing a refreshing contrast to the coastal scenery. The beach is equipped with sunbeds/umbrellas for rent, bars and restaurants, and also water sports activities. It can be reached with a short drive from the old town or with the bus line AF from Piazza dei Mercati. Free parking lots are available nearby.

2) Bombarde

Bombarde Beach is located close to Porto Conte Regional Park. Featuring crystal clear waters, is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Bombarde is a small but popular beach so it can get crowded during peak season. It can be reached within 20 minutes from town, or with the bus line 9320 from Alghero Via Catalogna.  

3) Lazzaretto Beach

Lazzaretto Beach is located next to Bombarde Beach, approximately 20 minutes walk. It’s a beautiful beach with fine white sand and turquoise water. A large parking lot is available for a fee and two bars/restaurants serve lunch and dinner daily. Just like Bombarde, it can get crowded at peak times so it’s best to get there early in the morning. 

4) Lazzaretto's Coves

Not many know that near Lazzaretto main beach there are a few beautiful coves. These are Cala Spinosa di Alghero, Cala del Lazzaretto, and Spiaggia di Torre del Lazzaretto . The best way to get there is to drive using Google Maps and parking nearby. Alternatively, you can get the bus line 9320 from Alghero Via Catalogna and get off at Capo Galera. If you plan to enjoy your day at the coves, we recommend bringing your towels, umbrellas, and lunch since there are no facilities available.

Mugoni Beach is set against a backdrop of lush Mediterranean vegetation and rolling hills, creating a serene and picturesque environment. The beach is part of the larger Porto Conte Regional Natural Park, providing a peaceful escape for visitors. You can get here by bus line 9320 from Alghero Via Catalogna (the same line that stops at Bombarde and Lazzaretto).

Is Alghero safe?

It is safe to travel to Alghero. There are no travel advisories or warnings for Alghero.

These are the top eateries in Alghero!

This Alghero Travel Guide would not be completed without a section dedicated to food lovers! Alghero’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of Sardinian and Catalan influences, with an emphasis on seafood, aromatic herbs, and traditional Sardinian flavors. Here are a few examples of must-try food in Alghero:

• Seafood Specialties: Alghero is renowned for its exceptional seafood. Aragosta alla catalana (Catalan-style lobster) is a signature dish that combines local lobster with a flavorful Catalan-inspired sauce.
• Fregola: Fregola is a traditional Sardinian pasta made from semolina and water, similar to couscous. It is often served in a variety of dishes, including seafood stews, where it absorbs the flavors of the broth.
• Culurgiones: Culurgiones are traditional Sardinian dumplings typically filled with potato, cheese, and mint.
• Malloreddus: Another local pasta variety, malloreddus, is often served with a rich tomato and sausage sauce. It’s a comfort food staple in Sardinia.
• Carasau Bread: Carasau is a traditional Sardinian flatbread that is thin and crispy. It’s often served with various toppings, such as tomatoes, olive oil, and local herbs.
• Bottarga: Bottarga is a Sardinian delicacy made from salted, cured fish roe, usually from grey mullet. Shaved or grated over pasta, salads, or bread, bottarga adds a unique and savory flavor to dishes.

So what are the best restaurants in Alghero?

In our opinion, these are the top eateries in Alghero:

• Azienda Sa Mandra
• Il Milese Focacceria
• Ristorante Aragon
• Ristorante La Pergola
• Aquatica Restaurant

How to get around in Sardinia?

Getting around in Sardinia is simple if you have a car. You can drive wherever you need in your schedule, allowing you extra time for sightseeing. Bus companies in Sardinia are limited and schedules may vary from time to time. Train schedules are very limited in Sardinia making it the less-used mode of transport of the island.

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This is how to get around in Sardinia:

Alghero to olbia.

• Duration: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and route.
• Route: Take the SS131/E25 highway eastward, connecting Alghero to Olbia. The journey offers scenic views of the Sardinian countryside.
• Bus Companies: ARST (Regional Sardinian Transport Company) operates buses between Alghero and Olbia. Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours. Buses may run several times a day, but schedules can vary, so it’s advisable to check the ARST website or the bus station for the latest information

Alghero to Cagliari

• Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
• Route: Take the SS291 southward towards Sassari, and then connect to the SS131 highway heading southeast to Cagliari.
• Bus Companies: ARST (Regional Sardinian Transport Company) operates buses connecting Alghero to Cagliari.
• Duration: Bus journeys typically take around 4 to 5 hours. Buses run multiple times a day, and schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check the ARST website or the bus station for the latest information.

NOTE: Trains are not efficient and connections are limited in Sardinia

Alghero to Rome

Alghero-Fertilia Airport offers flights to Rome Fiumicino Airport. Flight durations are short, but availability may vary.

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Time for conclusions...

In this Ultimate Alghero Travel Guide, we have offered a detailed overview of Alghero as a travel destination. We advise you to visit Alghero for its Scenic Coastal Beauty, Historic Charm, Mouthwatering Cuisine, Diverse Outdoor Activities, and as the Getaway to Northwest Sardinia. Alghero offers plenty of entertainment. From the scenic landscape of Capo Caccia to the old town, you can enjoy lots of outdoor activities, indulge in traditional cuisine, and spend lazy days at the beach.

We have seen that visiting Alghero without a car is feasible but would require extra planning. Likewise, getting around Sardinia with a car would make your life a lot easier. Finally, we have reviewed the top hotels near the beach in Alghero.

If you are visiting Alghero, you would be very welcome at our house. Simply contact us for more information and we’ll get back to you.

We would love to host our blog readers!!!!  

 Here is our email: [email protected]

 Our Instagram Page: Porto Conte Bayview House (@portoconte_bayviewhouse) • Instagram photos and videos

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Want to read more about Italy? Check out our blog posts on Rome , Naples , and Sicily !

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Sardinia Revealed

10 Best Things to Do in Alghero, Northern Sardinia

One of the most popular destinations to include in a Sardinia itinerary, there are so many things to do and see in Alghero and its surroundings that it would be a shame not to spend at least a few days there. Known for the strong influence of Catalan culture, Alghero shows the legacies of the different civilizations that invaded it and with which it came into contact, from the Phoenicians to the Romans to the Pisans.

Like all places with a long history and rich culture, even in Alghero, it is impossible to see everything in one day, but two or three days are already an excellent starting point. Ready to go? Here’s what to do in Alghero to best explore the quiet town in northern Sardinia.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Alghero – A simple itinerary + Map

Explore the alleys of the historic center

You cannot say you have visited Alghero without getting lost in its historic center’s picturesque and cobbled alleys. Slightly uncomfortable streets due to the paving made of large pebbles, I highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes or sandals, and certainly not high heels.

The streets of Alghero city center are lined up with typical restaurants, artisan shops, low houses typical of the area, bars, and cafes. Setting out to discover the hidden corners between a nice gelato and a seafood-based lunch, you can easily spend a few hours snapping postcard-type photographs of the small architectural jewels of this famous town in northern Sardinia.

Are you unsure how to include Alghero in your trip and what else to see in Sardinia? Book one of my tailored Sardinia itineraries and I will prepare it for you!

Walk along Alghero’s ancient walls and bastions

Alghero’s coastline is famously dotted with towers and bastions. Walking along the seafront is a great way to take in the remnants of past wars and civilizations. From the Phoenicians to the Romans, from the Catalans to the Pisans, everyone gave new shapes to the fortress that was Alghero, constantly adjusting the towers to better resist the attacks from the sea.

One of the few cities to have almost entirely preserved the walls and towers that surround it since its foundation in the 12th century by the Doria family, throughout the Middle Ages until the 16th century when the walls around the city were rebuilt, completing those on the facing the sea but not those on land.

Several towers can be seen today, from San Giacomo to Porta Terra, which connected the city by land for those arriving from Sassari. A fascinating walk full of history made even more pleasant by the sea views.

Visit the Coral Museum

Housed in an Art Nouveau villa, Museo del Corallo (Coral Museum) is a mandatory stop in Alghero given the rich tradition that the city has with this marine animal. Contrary to what one might think, the exhibition is not limited to jewels and local craftsmanship but retraces the history of the “tree of the sea” linked to the territory of Alghero. It explores the nature of this creature still capable of enchanting tourists and people of the place, and its thousand-year history.

The museum is divided into sections to make the visit easier, and each object on display is accompanied by an explanatory panel. At the entrance, a guide accompanied me along the entire route, certainly enriching my experience since I would have gone into much less detail on my own.

• Where: Via XX Settembre 8.
• When: Monday and Wednesday 4.30-7 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10.30 am-1 pm, Friday to Sunday 10.30 am-1 pm and 4.30-7 pm.

Visit the Cathedral

Due to its simplicity, the austere neoclassical façade of the cathedral of Alghero, white and poorly decorated, could be misleading. The back of the church, in fact, in late Gothic style, dates back to the first phase of its construction and in addition to a portal, it also includes a bell tower with a pyramidal spire covered in colored majolica that recalls the Catalan style. One of the largest churches in Sardinia, the rich and decorated interior in late Renaissance style is divided into three naves.

Dedicated to the Immaculate Conception and known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, its main entrance is in Piazza Duomo, in the historic center and a stone’s throw from the port.

Visit the archaeological sites around Alghero

Alghero has several archaeological sites in its surroundings that are worth visiting. The largest is the nuragic village of Palmavera where in relatively recent times a third tower was brought to light around the keep (main nuraghe), an aspect reminiscent of the Santu Antine nuraghe in Torralba.

Among the other archaeological sites to visit around Alghero, there is the fascinating necropolis of Anghelu Ruju made up of several domus de janas, the Green Cave, and the Nuraghe of Flumenelongu.

Visit the Archaeological Museum

If you are unable to visit the Nuragic sites scattered throughout the area, a place not to be missed in Alghero is its interesting archaeological museum. Located in the historic center, therefore very easy to reach, it is divided into sectors ranging from the sea with the wrecks found off the coast, to the ways of living in the sacred, that is, the burials in the Nuragic era. The museum also houses fragments of mosaics and sculptures found in the Roman villa near the city which, however, cannot be visited.

All the sections are very interesting, but I found the one on burials particularly fascinating where you can see the objects they placed in the tombs of both adults and children and which reveal important details about the society of the time.

Here too, a guide accompanied me throughout the museum, making the visit more interesting than doing it alone. If you can’t find the guide, each section and all the rooms are completed with explanatory panels. As with the Coral Museum, the Archaeological Museum of Alghero also opens upon reservation from Monday to Friday while entry is free on Saturdays and Sundays. For timetables and information, it is best to consult the official website.

• Where: Via Carlo Alberto 72.
• When: Monday and Wednesday 10.30 am-1 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 4.30-7 pm, Friday to Sunday 10.30 am-1 pm and 4.30-7 pm.

Don’t miss a trip to the Neptune Caves

Naturalists cannot miss an excursion to the Neptune Caves, a labyrinth of fairy-tale ravines and a forest of stalactites and stalagmites set in the Capo Caccia promontory. You can arrive by land in about half an hour’s drive from Alghero followed by the famous Escala del Cabirol, “roe deer’s staircase”, a staircase of just under 660 steps, or with about 30 minutes by boat from the port of Alghero.

We went with our one-and-a-half-year-old son so the steps down and then back up in the sun were not a feasible option. We booked the boat the day before and had no problems, but we went before the high season started and although they only ran twice a day, at 10 am and 3 pm, there still weren’t many tourists. In July and August, the two companies will organize more trips throughout the day, but I still recommend booking at least a few days in advance.

The visit to the caves must also be booked, but if you go by boat when booking the ride, the shipping company itself will communicate how many visitors it is bringing, while if you go by land, you must necessarily book directly by calling the office of Alghero Tourism.

For information on timetables, ticket costs, and how to book the boat and entry to the caves, it is best to consult the tourism office website .

Try the local cuisine

When you say Alghero, you say lobster, especially the “Catalan style”. But since we can’t always spend so much on food when we travel, don’t worry, Alghero cuisine offers many other delicious options, especially fish-based. Throughout the historic center you will find many typical restaurants where you can taste various local delicacies starting from agliata, a tomato sauce with a lot of garlic served in particular with starters (we ate it over pieces of breaded swordfish).

The first courses range from malloreddus to ravioli dumplings to tagliolini, and are served with prawns, swordfish, bottarga, mussels, clams, scampi, and much more. Among the second courses, in addition to lobster, calamari reigns supreme, the catch of the day prepared in different ways, mixed fried fish, and slices of larger fish such as tuna or shi drum.

If you don’t like fish, don’t worry, all the restaurants also have land dishes and some vegetarian options, especially in the first courses and starters, as well as the side dishes.

Go shopping in the coral artisan shops

You can’t go to Alghero and not take a tour of the artisan coral workshops of the Mediterranean. The displays of these red jewels will blow your mind and regardless of how much you want/can spend, you will surely find something that suits you. Prices vary depending on the type of coral and the processing. There are very eclectic pieces of craftsmanship, therefore not only in Sardinian style but also ethnic and more modern.

But if you want something purely local, you can ask for coral and filigree jewelry. I recently purchased some pendants with the typical Sardinian button and some earrings in the shape of the “corbula”, all in silver and red coral filigree. To be sure that it is Mediterranean coral certified by the Municipality of Alghero, check that outside the shop there is the official symbol of a red “A” decorated like the coral itself.

Take a day trip to La Pelosa Beach in Stintino

About an hour’s drive from Alghero is the famous La Pelosa beach in the Stintino area. Known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, after spending a day there, I can only confirm.

Very fine white sand, crystal clear water that begins with a shallow, clear seabed and gradually becomes intense turquoise. Perfect for children because the water remains shallow for several meters. Both from here and from Stintino you can book trips to the Asinara Natural Park, which has a limited number of places.

How to reach Alghero

Alghero can be reached by plane from many Italian cities, and if there are no companies that land there, the other closest airport is Olbia Costa Smeralda. Check out Omio’s website to see all the routes to Alghero and Olbia airports.

If you have rented a car , from the west coast, you can take the scenic coastal road. Mostly winding, it is still an easy road and truly has some breathtaking views. Arriving from central Sardinia, you can take the SS131, while if you arrive from Olbia, the shortest route is to go through Sassari.

Check out Discover Cars if you are looking into renting a car in Sardinia.

Where to stay in Alghero

Alghero is one of the best places to stay in Sardinia if you want to discover beautiful beaches but also local handicrafts and delicious food.

• High-end. Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA and Smy Carlos V Wellness & Spa Alghero .
• Mid-range. Alma di Alghero Hotel and Hotel La Margherita & Spa .
• Budget. Satta 81 and Aba Maya Alghero .

Where to eat in Alghero

The undisputed protagonist of the local cuisine is seafood. Among our favorite restaurants in Alghero are Trattoria Caragol (Via Majorca 73) and Lo Romanì (Via Principe Umberto 29), both in the historic center.

Unfortunately, we stayed too little and were unable to try two gems recommended by all the locals we asked, Mabrouk (Via Santa Barbara 4), open only for dinner, and Al Tuguri (Via Majorca 113), open every day days except Sunday.

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Your Complete Guide to Alghero, Sardinia: Tips and Recommendations

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• Post category: Places of Interest / Places To Go / Sardinia Information
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Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Alghero, Sardinia! If you’re looking for a Mediterranean destination that has it all – beaches, history, culture, and fantastic food – then Alghero is the place to be. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the essential information you need to know before planning your trip to Alghero. From the best places to stay and things to see and do, to insider tips on experiencing the local culture and traditions, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us be your guide to Alghero, Sardinia.

Alghero Travel Basics

• Alghero is a picturesque coastal city located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The city boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Alghero is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the spring or fall may be a better option.
• When planning your trip to Alghero, consider your budget and transportation options. Flights to Alghero are available from major cities in Europe, and you can also take a ferry from mainland Italy. Once you arrive, there are several transportation options available, including buses, taxis, and rental cars.
• If you are traveling from outside the European Union, you may need a visa to enter Italy and Sardinia. Ensure to check with your local embassy or consulate to determine if you need a visa and how to obtain one.
• To make the most of your trip, we recommend booking your accommodation and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons. If you’re traveling on a budget, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, as prices for flights and accommodation can be lower.
• Alghero is a small city, and it’s easy to navigate on foot or by bike. The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, and you can explore the winding cobblestone streets at your leisure. We also recommend taking a stroll along the seafront promenade, which offers stunning views of the coastline.
• In addition, it’s essential to know that Alghero is a bilingual city, and both Italian and Catalan are spoken. However, you won’t have any trouble communicating in English, as it’s widely spoken in tourist areas.

Where to Stay in Alghero

If you’re planning a trip to Alghero, finding the perfect place to stay can be a daunting task. However, with so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your budget and travel style.

Areas to Stay

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in the historic Old Town, where you can wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the medieval architecture. This area offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a beach vacation, consider staying in one of the beachfront areas, such as Lido or Maria Pia. These areas offer stunning views of the sea and easy access to some of the best beaches in Alghero.

Types of Accommodation

There are plenty of accommodation options in Alghero, including hotels, apartments, and bed and breakfasts. If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, consider staying at the Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa, a 19th-century villa that offers stunning views of the sea. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the B&B Il Mare di Alghero, which offers comfortable rooms and a great location in the heart of the Old Town.

Finding the Best Deals

To find the best deals on accommodation in Alghero, be sure to book in advance and compare prices across multiple websites. You can use popular travel booking websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor to find the best deals on hotels and vacation rentals. Another option is to use local booking websites like Sardegna.com or Alghero.org to find the best deals on accommodation in the area. Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to read reviews from other travelers to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.

Alghero Attractions and Activities

Alghero is a city that offers plenty of things to see and do. Its rich history and cultural heritage have left behind a legacy of ancient walls, towers, and cathedrals that date back to the medieval period. Start your trip by exploring the Old Town, which is enclosed by the breath-taking Bastioni, the old city walls that offer panoramic views of the sea and the city, especially at sunset. You can also visit the Cathedral of St. Mary, a beautiful example of Catalan Gothic architecture that was built in the 16th century.

If you’re a beach lover, you won’t be disappointed by Alghero’s stunning coastline. The city is home to several beautiful beaches, including Maria Pia Beach, which features crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. For a more secluded experience, head to Porto Conte Regional Park, where you can explore hidden coves and rocky cliffs.

Alghero also offers plenty of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Take a hike in the nearby Monte Doglia Natural Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and countryside. Alternatively, rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you can try your hand at windsurfing, kitesurfing, or paddleboarding.

To experience Alghero’s local culture and traditions, be sure to check out some of the city’s festivals and events. The most famous of these is the Feast of St. John the Baptist, which takes place on June 24th and features fireworks, parades, and a traditional horse race.

Local Insights: Tips from Alghero Residents

To give readers a more authentic perspective on Alghero, we reached out to local residents and asked them to share their favorite tips and recommendations for visitors. Here are some of their suggestions:

Discover the Best Gelato in Alghero

“Bar Gelateria Dante is a local institution that serves up some of the best gelato in Alghero. They have a wide variety of flavors, including some unique ones like olive oil and basil. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.”

• Marco, Alghero resident

Explore the Neptune Caves

“The Neptune Caves are one of the most popular attractions in Alghero, and for good reason. The natural rock formations and underground lakes are truly stunning. Be prepared for a bit of a hike down to the caves, but it’s definitely worth it.”

• Giulia, Alghero resident

Walk Along Alghero’s Bastioni

“The Bastioni are the old city walls that surround Alghero’s historic center. They offer breathtaking views of the sea and the city, especially at sunset. The walk along the walls is also a great way to explore the city and get a sense of its history.”

• Maria, Alghero resident

By following these tips, you’ll be able to discover the best of Alghero and experience the city like a local.

Alghero’s Hidden Gems

Alghero is full of popular attractions, but there are also some hidden gems that are worth discovering. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Church of San Francesco

The Church of San Francesco is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture and features some of the most stunning frescoes and artwork in the city. This hidden gem is located a bit off the beaten path, but it is definitely worth a visit for art and history enthusiasts.

The Maria Pia Beach Nature Reserve

The Maria Pia Beach Nature Reserve is a serene oasis located just a short distance from the city center. This hidden gem is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with plenty of walking trails and picnic spots. The beach itself is absolutely gorgeous and it’s a perfect place to soak up the sun, swim, and enjoy the stunning views.

Alghero Food and Drink

When in Alghero, you cannot miss the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine. Sardinian cuisine is famous for its simple yet flavourful dishes that highlight the island’s fresh ingredients and culinary traditions. Some of the must-try local specialties include fregola, a type of pasta that is similar to couscous, and porceddu, a roasted suckling pig.

Alghero has plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can sample the local cuisine. For a traditional Sardinian meal, head to Trattoria da Bruno, a cozy and welcoming restaurant that serves up hearty portions of pasta, meat, and fish. If you’re looking for a more modern twist on Sardinian cuisine, check out Ristorante Mirador, which offers creative dishes made with local ingredients.

To complement your meal, you should try some of the local wines, such as Vermentino or Cannonau. You can also sample some of the island’s traditional liqueurs, such as mirto, made from the myrtle plant, or limoncello, made from locally grown lemons.

Best Places to Eat in Alghero

• Trattoria da Bruno :  A cozy and welcoming restaurant that serves up hearty portions of pasta, meat, and fish. Located at Via Fratelli Kennedy, 24, 07041 Alghero.
• Ristorante Mirador :  Offers creative dishes made with local ingredients. Located at Via XX Settembre, 1, 07041 Alghero.

Traditional Sardinian Drinks

• Vermentino:  A dry white wine that pairs well with seafood and pasta dishes.
• Cannonau:  A red wine that is perfect with meat dishes.
• Mirto:  A sweet liqueur made from the myrtle plant.
• Limoncello:  A sweet and tangy liqueur made from locally grown lemons.

Additional Resources

For more information about Alghero and Sardinia, here are some additional resources you might find helpful:

• Sardinia Tourism Board
• Lonely Planet Guide to Sardinia
• Alghero Tourism Board

Practical Information and Tips for Alghero

Before you pack your bags and head to Alghero, there are a few practical tips you should keep in mind.

The official language of Sardinia is Italian, but many locals also speak a regional dialect called Sardo. In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating. However, learning some basic Italian phrases can help you navigate the local culture and interact with locals.

Currency and Payment Options

The currency in Italy is the Euro, and credit cards are widely accepted in Alghero. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit smaller towns or markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and it’s recommended to withdraw cash in smaller amounts to avoid carrying large sums.

Local Customs and Traditions

It’s important to be aware of local customs and traditions when traveling in Alghero and Sardinia. For example, it’s considered rude to enter a church or religious site wearing shorts or revealing clothing. It’s also customary to greet people with a handshake or kiss on both cheeks, especially in more formal settings. Additionally, it’s common to take a midday break, or “siesta,” during which many businesses and shops close for a few hours. Knowing these customs can help you show respect to the local culture and enhance your overall travel experience.

Things to Do in Alghero

In conclusion, Alghero, Sardinia is a destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant local culture, Alghero is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable travel experience.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient cathedrals or enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, Alghero has something for everyone. The local cuisine and culinary traditions are also a highlight, with an abundance of traditional and modern restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from.

By following our tips and recommendations, you can plan the perfect trip to Alghero. From choosing the best areas to stay to finding the best deals on accommodation, we’ve got you covered. Don’t forget to take advantage of the many day trips and excursions available from Alghero, including nearby towns and natural parks.

Overall, Alghero, Sardinia is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Alghero today and get ready to fall in love with the beauty and charm of this wonderful destination.

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• 1.1 Tourist information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 2.5 By taxi
• 5.1 Museums
• 5.2 Beaches
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Capo Caccia
• 10.2 Other destinations

Alghero is a beautiful town on the north-western shore of Sardinia , Italy . It is best known for its beautiful beaches, unique food, and also for its Catalan heritage; in fact, it was known in the past as la Barceloneta sarda , little Sardinian Barcelona. This historic town is one of the most popular destinations for Sardinia's visitors.

Understand [ edit ]

In Alghero's ( IPA : alˈɡɛːro ), Catalan : L'Alguer ( IPA : ɫəɫˈɣe ) atmospheric narrow lanes you'll find numerous bars and cafés. Its restaurants are renowned for excellent seafood. The surrounding area brings many delights for those who venture out of the city. These include the famous beaches at La Pelosa - Stintino, the eerily abandoned mining town of Argentiera and the ancient palace complex at Nuraghe di Palmavera.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• 40.557226 8.315032 1 InfoAlghero ( Ufficio Informazioni Turistiche ), Largo San Francesco ( Lo Quarter ), ☏ +39 079 97 90 54 , [email protected] . M-F 09:00–13:00 15:30–18:30; Sa 09:00–13:00 16:00–19:00; Su 10:00–13:00 (only Mar-Oct) . ( updated Jan 2016 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Connections by regional buses to Alghero (every hour, 20-minute trip), Sassari (9 per day, 30-minute trip), Bosa, Nuoro, Macomer, Oristano, Cagliari. In Jun-Sep there are also buses to Stintino & Santa Teresa Gallura. Tickets can be bought at the ARST ticket vending machine.

By car [ edit ]

Alghero is easily accessible by road from Sassari, passing the airport near Fertilia. Another way to get to Alghero is from Bosa, by the sea-side road, which is quite narrow and winding but has incredible views.

If staying in the old town, free parking can be found in and around the Piazzale della Pace.

By train [ edit ]

The railway station is about fifteen minutes walking distance from the centre of town and marina.

• 40.574815 8.322444 2 Stazione di Alghero Sant'Agostino ( Railway station ) ( to get to the town from the station, turn left out of the station on Don Minzoni, go straight for five blocks or so until you hit the beach and go left along Via Garibaldi ). Alghero station runs trains operated by ARST (former Ferrovie della Sardenia ), not to be confused with Ferrovie dello Stato (Trenitalia). These are two separate companies, and you will have to take one of the many daily 35-minute trains from Alghero to Sassari in order to catch a connecting train operated by Trenitalia to another destination such as Cagliari. Tickets must be purchased separately at their respective stations. ( updated Feb 2016 )

By bus [ edit ]

• 40.559316 8.315932 3 Regional bus hub ( near the SW corner of Giardini Pubblici ). Buses to Cagliari (3½ hours, fare €20 ), Sassari , Alghero airport and other destinations. There is a ticket booth with bus schedules, etc. ( updated Mar 2015 )

By taxi [ edit ]

• Alghero Radio Taxi , ☏ +39 079 9892928 . €70 to Sassari .  

Get around [ edit ]

The city centre has a limited traffic zone (ZTL) ( map and hours ). Most vehicles are prohibited from accessing it most of the time. Cameras are in operation and fines apply, even if you're in a rented car.

See [ edit ]

Religious architecture:

• 40.55718 8.31483 3 Chiesa San Michele . The church dates to the 16th century. Its polychrome tiled dome is one of the symbols of the town. It's quite remarkable though that the dome has received this colourful decoration only in 1950s (designed by Antonio Simon Mossa and Filippo Figari) ( updated Aug 2017 )
• 40.55634 8.31885 4 Parrocchia di Nostra Signora della Mercede . ( updated Aug 2017 )

Secular architecture:

• 40.560072 8.314585 5 Forte della Maddalena . 16th-century fort. ( updated Aug 2017 )

• 40.559196 8.313346 9 Palazzo Serra . 18th-century Baroque building. ( updated Feb 2016 )

• 40.559622 8.312177 13 Palazzo Carcassona . ( updated Feb 2016 )
• 40.557488 8.315063 14 Palazzo Simon . Built in 1865. ( updated Feb 2016 )
• 40.557488 8.315513 15 Torre di San Giovanni ( Torre di Mezzo ). A 16th-century massive defensive tower. ( updated Sep 2017 )

Liberty villas along the Lungomare Dante and the Lungomare Valencia:

• 40.553203 8.316701 16 Villa Mosca , Lungomare Dante . Now a hotel. ( updated Feb 2016 )
• 40.55042 8.318088 17 Villa las Tronas ( Villa Arborio Mella di Sant'Elia ), Lungomare Valencia . Yet another villa, now a hotel. ( updated Feb 2016 )

Do [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ]

• 40.55808 8.31383 1 Museo Archeologico della Città , Via Carlo Alberto, 72 , ☏ +390799734045 . 11:00-13:30, 17:30-21:30 . €6 . ( updated Aug 2017 )
• 40.55714 8.31622 2 Museo del Corallo ( Casa Ascione ), Via XX Settembre n. 8 , ☏ +390799897502 , [email protected] . 10:30-13:00, 17:00-21:00 . The Museum of Coral in the Libery villa. €6 . ( updated Aug 2017 )
• 40.559179 8.313131 3 Museo Diocesano , Piazza Duomo , ☏ +39 079 973 3041 . W-M 10:30-13:00 18:00-20:30 . €4 , + Cathedral's campanile €6 . ( updated Aug 2017 )

Beaches [ edit ]

The coastal road south of Alghero is beautiful, an unspoilt and protected panorama of sparkling sea, lush vegetation, and rocky mountains. It leads to Bosa, a small medieval town, which has a distinctive and living historic center and many points of interest.

Near Alghero, accessible by car, is the spectacular Capo Caccia/Porte Conte Bay, well worth a visit.

• Scuba diving - The area with the Marine Reserve Capo Caccia/Isola Piana is one of the best dive destinations in Europe.
• Mountain Biking
• Bird watching
• Archaeology

Buy [ edit ]

Alghero is famous for its red coral jewelry and silverware. All coral jewelry is unsustainably harvested from living wild coral reefs that form important ocean habitats. Ethical travellers should avoid buying any sort of coral jewelry.

Eat [ edit ]

As in most parts of Italy food in Alghero is an important thing. The town's fishing port provides seafood fresh from the sea. Make sure that you try Catalan lobster, lobster salad with raw tomatoes and onion. Ricci (sea urchins) are also very popular in Alghero with a festival being held in their honor around February during the "Sagra del Bogamarì".

Basically, anywhere in town is good, as long as you avoid the tourist restaurants with "il menu turistico".

Budget [ edit ]

All these are in the city centre:

• 40.558063 8.316532 1 La Piccola Cucina Alghero , Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 23 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.557873 8.314539 2 Pub L'Anfora , Via Gioberti, 31 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.558387 8.313443 3 El Davalito , Via Majorca, 33 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.559006 8.314094 4 Lu Furat Ristorante Pizzeria , Via Minerva, 19 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.55799 8.315182 5 Da Rosy&Tony , Via Simon, 14 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.559607 8.317547 6 La vecchia Grotta Del Diavolo , Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 23 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.55736 8.316883 7 Indian Kebab & Food , Via XX Settembre, 20 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 40.558581 8.312377 8 Al Vecchio Mulino , Via Don De Roma, 3 . A good restaurant where you can try typical dishes. The same management for 30 years. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.558851 8.312069 9 Ristorante Mabrouk , Via Santa Barbara, 4 . Seafood restaurant ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.557779 8.312611 10 Trattoria Lo Romanì , Via Lazzaretto, 9 . Sardinian restaurant ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.556935 8.313657 11 Prosciutteria Sant Miquel , Via Misericordia, 20 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.558098 8.314838 12 Alamo - Ristorante Paelleria , Via Ambrogio Machin, 20 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 40.559255 8.31436 13 Món Bar Bistrot , Via Minerva, 7 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 40.556764 8.314028 14 Al Tuguri , Via Majorca, 113 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

Take in the beautiful views at cafe Latino located on the battlements overlooking the harbour. There are also lots of late night bars on the Lungomare Valencia that get going at around about midnight. Local drinks are limoncello, mirto and some local wines that they serve in all restaurants.

Also you should not miss the Bar La Perla in Viale Sardegna. It serves great cappuccino.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are a whole number of possibilities for accommodation in Alghero from bed and breakfasts to Agroturismos (farm stays) and hotels. You can pick up a list of B&Bs at the friendly Tourist Information office.

In the offseason, rates range from €25-50 for one person. Expect prices to double in July and August.

• 40.55815 8.31552 1 Aigua Alghero B&B and Rent a Car , old town alghero ambrogio machin 22 ( & Rent a Car Front of Alghero Airport enter Parcheggio Economy (www.aiguarentacar.it) ), ☏ +39 340 0777688 , [email protected] . Check-in: 11:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Typical Latin architecture. €60-100 .  
• B&B Ramblas ( B&B Alghero ), Lido San Giovanni Via Garibaldi, 79/M ( Front of the sea ), ☏ +39 347 1813100 , [email protected] . Check-in: 11:00 , check-out: 12:00 . B&B Alghero €60-100 .  
• Hotel Angedras Alghero , via Frank, 2 , ☏ +39 079 9735034 , [email protected] . Check-in: 11:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Three star hotel in a quiet residential street close to the old town, has stylish modern rooms. Hotel shuttle bus to the beach, internet point, high-speed Wi-Fi internet connection, restaurant (on the Bastions in Alghero's Old Town, with sea view). US$53-150 .  
• Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa ( Hotel Villa Las Tronas - 5 star ), Lungomare Valencia, 1 , ☏ +39 079 981818 , [email protected] . Check-out: 12:00 . Once the residence of Italian royalty during their holidays in Sardinia, Las Tronas conserves the historic atmosphere of the aristocratic buen retiro , renewing the tradition and charm of the ancient residence. A spectacular position, on the sea-shore. A peaceful, exclusive oasis on a private headland. €220-450 .  
• El Faro Hotel ( El Faro Hotel ), Porto Conte, 52, Alghero , ☏ +39 079 942 010 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Luxury seafront hotel in Porto Conte Bay. The 5-star hotel has the shape of an ocean liner, with its stern laid down on the rocks, enriched by Spanish-style arches and balconies. min €190-350 .  
• 40.54667 8.321507 2 Calabonia , Strada Provinciale 105 , ☏ +39 079977343 , [email protected] . Restaurant, bar, swimming pool. The hotel has a small private beach with some rocks. €120 .  
• Alghero Resort Country Hotel , Via Carrabuffas , ☏ +39 079 986 555 , [email protected] . Hotel is in a converted 18th-century country mansion. Outside the hustle of the city center but only a 10-minute drive to the historic center and beaches. Offers a tranquil setting with pool, tennis courts, and full spa. Breakfast included with dinner service available. Kind staff will help book excursions including the horses next door that roam the outskirts of the property. €60 classic room, €200 suite . ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 40.54169 8.33776 3 Villa Grazia B&B Alghero - Sardinia ( B&B Alghero ), St.Anna area, Strada vicinale vecchia 10 C ( (The main street is the Sant'anna Pollina local road (by Google maps)) ), ☏ +39 338 924 4531 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Villa Grazia B&B Alghero is a villa with swimming pool surrounded by a magnificent park of olive trees, about 2 km from the sea and 3 km from the historic center of Alghero. €80-160 . ( updated Jan 2023 )

Go next [ edit ]

Capo Caccia [ edit ]

See Neptune's Grotto, which includes the "Goat's Staircase" and under water the limestone cliffs continue creating the most vaste underwater marine cave system, Nereo Cave is the bigger and famous with its huge halls and tunnels.

• Tourist agencies organise boat excursions to the other caves: Grotte Navisarda and Attilio Regolo .

Other destinations [ edit ]

• Sassari is a good destination for a pleasant half day trip
• Bosa is a quaint old town further to the south

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Must-see attractions in Alghero

Alghero's golden sea walls, built around the centro storico by the Aragonese in the 16th century, are a highlight of the town's historic cityscape…

Rising above the historic centre, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria's 16th-century campanile is one of Alghero's signature landmarks. The tower, accessible…

Chiesa di San Francesco

Alghero's finest church is a model of architectural harmony. Originally built to a Catalan Gothic design in the 14th century, it was later given a…

Chiesa di San Michele

On Via Carlo Alberto, the carrer major of the medieval town, the 17th-century Chiesa di San Michele is best known for its maiolica-tiled dome. The present…

Torre di Sulis

Dominating Piazza Sulis, this landmark tower was originally known as the Torre de l'Esperó Reial or Torre dello Sperone (Tower of the Royal Spur). Its…

Piazza Civica

Just inside Porta a Mare, Piazza Civica is Alghero’s showcase square. In a former life it was the administrative heart of the medieval city, but where…

Cattedrale di Santa Maria

Overlooking Piazza Duomo, Alghero’s oversized Cattedrale di Santa Maria appears out of place with its pompous neoclassical facade and fat Doric columns…

Museo Archeologico della Città di Alghero

The history of human settlement in the Alghero area is charted at this gleaming new archaeological museum, inaugurated in December 2016. Artefacts…

Forte della Maddalena

To the north of the old town, the Forte della Maddalena is the sole survivor of three forts built at the end of the 16th century to bolster the city's…

Torre Porta a Terra

Near the Giardini Pubblici, the 14th-century Torre Porta a Terra is all that remains of Porta a Terra, one of the two main gates into the medieval city. A…

Museo del Corallo

Housed in a Liberty-style villa, this small museum is dedicated to Alghero's coral trade. Information panels and exhibits, which include works of coral…

Spiaggia di San Giovanni

The closest beach to the historic centre, Spiaggia di San Giovanni is part of a long stretch of sand that curves around the bay almost uninterrupted to…

Torre di San Giovanni

This impressive 16th-century tower is now used to stage temporary exhibitions. A squat, thick-set structure, it has a circumference of 60m and walls 4.3m…

Porta a Mare

This gateway, one of two entrances to the medieval city, links Piazza Civica with the marina, passing through the city walls.

Torre della Polveriera

At the northern end of the Bastioni Marco Polo, this mid-18th-century tower was used as an arsenal and gunpowder store.

Museo Diocesano d’Arte Sacra

This museum of religious art, in the former Oratorio del Rosario, houses religious artefacts from the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, including silverware,…

Giardini Pubblici

At some point you'll probably find yourself passing by Alghero's public gardens. The verdant park, which effectively separates the medieval centre from…

Palazzo d'Albis

Overlooking Piazza Civica, this Gothic palace was the governor's residence and famously hosted the Spanish emperor Charles V in 1541. It's now home to the…

Torre della Maddalena

Also known as the Torre di Garibaldi, this tower was incorporated into the Forte della Maddalena in the late 16th century.

Torre di San Giacomo

Rising directly from the seashore, the octagonal Tower of St James stands on the corner of the Bastioni Cristoforo Colombo and Bastioni Marco Polo.

Torre di Sant'Elmo

This tower is named after St Erasmus (Elmo in Catalan), the patron saint of sailors, who was much venerated in Alghero.

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Section in Alghero Do & See With a medieval city centre, a beautiful marina, lovely sandy beaches with activities such as kitesurfing and plenty of historical sights to visit, a trip to Alghero will never be boring. Within just a few hours from Alghero are also a number of picturesque towns, stunning beaches and breathtaking natural wonders, all making for delightful day-trips. Read more

Cathedral of St Mary the Immaculate

Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art

Torre di Porta Terra

Church of San Francesco

Piazza Civica

Neptune's Grotto

Nuraghe Palmavera

Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju

La Pelosa Beach

Castelsardo

Wine Resort Ledà d'Ittiri

Le Ragnatele Adventure Park

Le Bombarde Beach

Coral Museum

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Alghero, Sardinia Map & Travel Guide

Exploring sardinia's northwest coast.

Alghero, located on Sardinia's northwest coast, is a popular tourist resort with a historic past that makes its language, architecture and cuisine into a sort of cultural stew. The Oziere culture settled here around 4000 BC, then the Nuragic culture, evidenced by all the prehistoric stone towers called Nuraghe, came to stay a while. Alghero has a fortified port built by Genovese, then the Aragonese took it and colonized it with Catalans. The the Spanish Habsburgs came in the 1700s, and in 1720 Alghero and the Island of Sardinia were finally handed over to a party of folks we can call Italians: the Piedmontese House of Savoy took the reins in 1720.

All of this gives Alghero a cultural kick. You'll find hints of southern Spain in your food, you'll detect it in the dialect you might hear on the street--and then there's that great strolling you do with folks from all over the world who congregate here for the fine weather, great restaurants, a bit of roller skating and a bevy of interesting things to do in the city and just outside.

Map: Alghero and Vicinity

The distance between the map markers is easily walkable.

Getting Your Bearings in Alghero

Bastioni Cristoforo Colombo Lungomare, the walking street along the sea, is one of the most beautiful city walks anywhere. The bastione (city walls) Lungomare has been updated (in a rather Catalan style) and folks stroll along the bastione (city walls) --kids play, music wafts by, and there's plenty of room, unlike the narrow little streets (that shelter you from midday heat) of the old down. In the evening, Alghero's version of the Italian passeggiata is one of the best and liveliest in Italy.

Where the streets are small and seem to curve and loop for no reason..that's where you want to be. The old town. Evocative and cool in the summer.

The small airport, Aeroporto di Alghero , is a short distance north of the city. Marked on the map as Aeroporto internazionale di Alghero-Fertilia it's an easy and convenient airport to fly in and out of. There are many connections to mainland Italy. An inexpensive shuttle bus will get you into town running every hour between 6:30 and 22:30 plus 5 and 5:40 am. At time of writing, a ticket costs 1 euro. There is also a taxi stand outside arrivals. Check prices on flights to Alghero using the box on the right.

How to Get to Alghero By Ferry from the Italian Mainland

If you already have a car on mainland Italy, you might wish to take the car ferry. There is no ferry port in Alghero, so the closest landing spot to Alghero is Porto Torres, to the north. Check the schedule and price s on Direct Ferries for the ferry from the port of Rome, Civitaveccia, to Porto Torres. Alternatively, you can leave the Italian mainland from Savona or Genoa instead of Civitavecchia. 

If you do have a car you can also arrive in Olbia or Golfo Aranci on the east coast of Sardinia and take the interesting drive across to Alghero on the west coast. The ferry ride is somewhat shorter this way and you can leave from many places, including Piombino , where you can also catch the ferry to Elba Island. [ Piombino Ferry Schedules ]

Longer trips to Sardinia from the mainland are overnight. Here's what such a trip is like .

Food and Drink

You won't likely get seafood much fresher. But then Sardinia isn't just about fish. You can find "il bue Rosso" or the red ox on some menus. It's best slow cooked.

Then there are the many cheeses. Save room after your main course for a small selection of them, especially the pecorino sardo, the Sardinian aged sheep's milk cheese. Of course, there's also the infamous Casu marzo if you dare. Formaggio con vermini is what the rest of Italy calls it, cheese with worms--maggots. It's illegal to serve in restaurants these days, but that doesn't mean you won't come across some if you explore deeply.

If you're lucky enough to be in Alghero in spring, say around the end of March, you'll encounter lots of ricci di mare or sea urchins . Every restaurant will have them when they're plentiful. Snails are another Sardinian specialty, although you might like Aragosta, spiny lobster, better.

Alghero's central market is called La Boqueria, reflecting the Catalan occupation, but on a recent visit we found that times were changing for the market .

Fregola con arselle on an Italian menu indicates a Sardinian semolina pasta type garnished with small clams.

You might also find Anguilla allo spiedo , although it's more popular in the south of Sardinia.

Restaurants are plentiful and range from our favorite sandwich joint the Bar Focacceria Milese on Via Garabaldi 11 (marked on the map) to the traditional La Saletta , which provided a fantasic dinner for four that lasted more than two hours at our last visit, in which we consumed many of our favorites and tried those of which we hadn't tasted. Try " Zuppa Cuata ", a baked "soup" with local bread, wild fennel and cheese--which isn't a liquid soup when it's finished cooking, so beware. It's heavy for a summer dish, but warm and comforting on a cool day. The unsqueamish may try the typical lamb intestine dish, a masterpiece of tying offal together called "Cordula di Agnello".

There are a couple of places we like. For the view over Alghero, go to the 9th floor of the four-star Hotel Catalunya . There you'll find cocktails with abundant snacks and a view as you see below. If you stay at the hotel, the cocktail bar turns magically into the breakfast room where you'll get the morning version of this same view.

For cocktails with a view at the edge of the waterfront, we like the Cafe Latino , especially in the evening as the sun sets, when there's likely to be music to go with your libations. If you like sparkling wine, try a bottle of the local Akènta - Spumante di Sardegna Santa Maria la Palma

On our visit to Cafe Latino, we were privileged to see Stellaria de Santu Nigola singing songs from Logudoro , a historic territory encompassing Alghero, Porto Torres, Sassari and Bosa in the northwest corner of the island. Bands often play in the evening on the Bastioni Magellano, between the bars and the sea.

Weather and Climate of Alghero

Alghero can get hot in the summer, and the tiny streets will provide shade and the sea will provide cooling waters. The pictures below are from March, when the wildflowers were out and daytime temperatures just perfect. For more, see our Alghero Weather and Historic Climate page to pick your kind of weather.

Coral Jewelery. That's what tourists crave from the artisans in Alghero. Look for a shop that has it's own production facilities or hire a guide who knows. There is a fake version of coral made from painted black bamboo sold in some places.

Where to Stay in Alghero

In a resort town like Alghero, it's nice to be able to splurge on a great place to stay. The highly rated Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa which is marked on the map sits on a quiet little peninsula that's just a very short walk to where the action is. Highly recommended; I've stayed there and can vouch for the place (which has been recently renovated, by the way). And they have a helicopter pad! How cool is that?

On a recent stay, four of us had a nice stay at Claudia's home 2 in the heart of Alghero. Great walled patio outside and a small but surprisingly efficient kitchen.

Alghero is packed with highly rated Bed and Breakfasts .

Of course, there are many other hotels in Alghero, you can use our search box below to check prices on them.

If you have a car and you don't mind being in the countryside, the Aloe Bed and Breakfast Alghero , an inexpensive three star hotel with a "perfect ten" rating near Mugoni and Lazzaretto Beaches might just be the place for you.

In the Countryside

Marked on the map are places to go for excursions, like archaeological sites and the famous grotto shown below. Zoom out the map to see them.

Archaeology Near Alghero--The Two Major Sites

• Nuraghe Palmavera - There aren't a lot of Nuraghi on the coast, but these twin towers with a courtyard date to 1100 bc and are very nice to see--and it's right off the road, so you can get a view even when it's closed. Update: Recent archaeological excavations have brought to light a third tower belonging to this complex. A recent rise in the number of visitors makes it the second most visited nuraghe after Barumini. A new parking lot is being built to handle the increase in visitors. The visit to Palmavera is open every day during the summer and you can buy a cumulative ticket to visit the Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju on the site.
• Anghelu Ruju Necropolis - This burial ground near the Alghero airport was discovered when a local winery bought the land and started to dig on it. The site dates to the Early Copper Age (3300-2700 bc) although much of the site has been reused. Both sites can be accessed by a single entrance ticket.

Grotta di Nettuno - Neptune's Grotto

The Grotta di Nettuno is a very popular day trip. Boats leave from Alghero's port every hour in summer for a 2 and a half hour trip to these sea caves. You can also do it by car, taking the Escala del Cabirol, or "Goat's steps" down to the Grotto entrance. There are 656 of them. The stalactites and stalagmites in the caves are dramatically lit.

Where Next?

The drive down the west coast of Sardinia to Bosa is spectacular. Bosa and its surrounding territory is full of things to do. For a splurge, have one of those famous Bosa lobsters while you're there. Shoppers might want to pick up some of the famous Bosa Filet Lace .

There are many attractions a short drive from Alghero. See our Alghero Day Trips article for an itinerary map.

Enjoy Alghero and vicinity. You'll love the waterfront.

Sardinia Rail Map Sardinia Provinces Map

Pictures of Alghero, Sardinia

Planning a Trip to Sardinia?

If you'd like to view a video introduction to Sardinia, see our Introduction to Travel in Sardinia Video

Italy Planning tools and Information

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Visit Alghero: Top 6 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

The 6 best things to do in alghero (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Alghero, in Sardinia , during your next trip?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 6 best things to do in Alghero and its surroundings. You will find all must-see attractions in and around the city as well as itineraries to visit Alghero in 1, 2 or 3 days.

As usual, I will also give you all my best tips and my list of the best places to stay in Alghero depending on your budget.

So, What are the best things to do in Alghero? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Alghero historical center

2. neptune caves / cape caccia, 3. porto conte regional natural park, 4. the beaches around alghero, 6. la pelosa beach, how many days to visit alghero and its surroundings, 1 day in alghero, 2 days in alghero (and around), 3 days in alghero (and around), where to stay in alghero, where to eat in alghero, renting a boat in alghero, you’re traveling in sardinia these articles will help you, visit alghero (+ surroundings): the 6 must-see attractions.

Let’s start this guide of Alghero with the old town , the most interesting area to visit.

When you will arrive, you will directly notice how charming the historical center is, with its narrow paved streets and historical monuments everywhere.

You will also find many coffee shops, restaurants and tourist shop in this touristic city.

As Alghero is the capital of the “Coral Coast”, most of the shops are selling red coral jewelry, the local specialty . It really and makes a perfect souvenir to bring back from your holidays in Sardinia!

Here are the best places to visit in Alghero, Sardinia:

The fortifications and ramparts of Alghero: Recently renovated, the promenade along the ramparts is great and offers many nice viewpoints over the coast.

During your stroll, you will also see beautiful gates, towers and bastions , named (for most of them) after famous explorers like Marco Polo or Ferdinand Magellan.

The site has been really well rearranged. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset in Alghero.

In the old town, there is also:

• Alghero Cathedral
• The Cathedral’s bell tower: you can go up and enjoy the view over Alghero
• La Piazza Civica: the main square with many terrace coffee shops
• The Coral Museum, to learn more about this local craft
• The Church of St. Michael and its colorful dome
• The Church of St. Barbara, the most ancient church of the city
• The lungomare, for a walk along the sea.

One of the best things to do around Alghero is to go visit the Neptune caves.

There’re several ways to go to the caves located in Cape Caccia:

• A boat excursion from the Alghero port.  There’s daily departures to the caves. The boats take you to the caves entrance and pick you up after your visit of Neptune caves. You need to check the marine weather forecast beforehand though, as there’s no departure when the sea is rough. Price: about 15€ per person (entrance ticket to the cave is not included).
• By bus: go to via Catalogna to take the ARST bus, it will take you to the caves entrance. The round trip costs 5€ and it takes about 50 min one way. Check the schedules beforehand because there aren’t many buses per day.
• By car: it will take you around 35 min to get to the caves parking lot.
• Last option: drive to Porto Conte pier (located on the left before getting to the caves) and then take a boat to the caves entrance.

If you take a boat to Neptune caves, the boat will drop you directly at the entrance.

On the other hand, if you choose to take the bus or drive there, a 654 steps staircase will be waiting for you!

As you can imagine, going down isn’t really a problem, but going back up is another story 😅.

The stairs are carved into the cliff, so it’s really impressive , even if you’re not particularly afraid of heights.

Once you arrive at the entrance, you can visit the caves . There’re only guided tours available , starting every hour from 09:00 to 19:00.

Make sure you arrive at the caves at the right time to avoid waiting for too long for the next visit to start.

The visit lasts 45 min. It will allow you to discover an inland lake as well as many stalactites and stalagmites .

Tickets are 13€ per adult and 7€ per child.

If you are around Alghero and enjoy hiking , you should definitely go for a walk in Porto Conte Regional Natural Park . In fact, the Neptune caves and Cape Caccia are parts of it.

In the park, you will find several hiking paths and cycle paths . For truly beautiful walks, head to “ Le Prigionette nature reserve” and along Cape Caccia.

To get in the nature reserve, you will have to pay a small entrance fee:

• 5€ for a car
• 3€ per bike or on foot

You will then be able to walk along the rocky coast and in the wild maquis.

After your hike, why not go take a dip in the sea?

The 2 best beaches nearby are Spaggia Mugoni , in Porto Conte and Porto Ferro beach .

During high season, Porto Ferro beach is even accessible by bus from Alghero . Surrounded by mountains and the ruins of 3 defensive towers, the beach is wild and very beautiful!

When you will be in Sardinia, you will for sure find stunning beaches everywhere you go, including around Alghero .

You will be able to practice the most popular Sardinian activity: sunbathing! 😋

Here is a list of the most beautiful beaches of Alghero and its surroundings: 

• Lido San Giovanni is the closest beach to the old city and you can go there on foot. There, you can rent sun beds and umbrellas. It’s also a very kid friendly beach, with shallow water.
• Maria Pia beach: large white sand beach with a pine forest nearby. There are many parking spots around.
• Bombarde beach: located North of Alghero, towards Porto Conte. Well equipped with sun beds and paddle boats for rents + restaurants around.
• Lazzaretto beach: located right next to Bombarde beach. It’s a sandy beach with crystal clear water.
• Spiaggia Mugoni: the very large sandy beach that I mentioned above (20min away from Alghero)
• Spiaggia di Porticiello: its belvedere offers a splendid view over Porto Conte Regional Natural Park
• Spiaggia Porto Ferro: I also talked about this one above. It’s located 30min away from Alghero and it’s the wildest beach in the area. 

Close to Alghero , you can also easily go visit Sassari , the largest city of the province of the same name and the 2nd most populated city in Sardinia.

If you go by car , it will take you about 35min to reach Sassari from Alghero . You can also take the bus from Alghero for only 4€ !

In Sassari too, the most interesting isn’t the modern part of the city, but rather its historical center .

You can go for a stroll and see the main monuments , such as St. Nicholas Cathedral and its bell tower, St. Anthony Abbot Church , the Civic Theatre and Piazza Italia , a large square surrounded by several Palazzo.

If you’re into archeology, you should also check out Sanna Museum (the National Archeological Museum) . You’ll discover various items and relics found around Sassari and Alghero.

You’re going to Alghero?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Alghero on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Alghero.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Alghero, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Alghero!

What are the best things to do in Alghero and its surroundings after you’ve seen everything I talked about?

Well, then you should go explore a bit further away and discover one of the best beaches of Northwest Sardinia (some will even say of all Europe!): La Pelosa beach .

This very popular beach is a real tourist magnet , so don’t expect to be alone!

It’s located about 1 hour driving from Alghero , in the Gulf of Asinara , a few kilometers away from Stintino.

From June 1st to September 30th , access to the beach is strictly regulated. You have to book your entrance ticket (3.50€ per person / free for children under 12) in advance on the official website: La Pelosa Stintino .

With its white sand and shallow turquoise water, La Pelosa really feels like paradise. You will often see it on postcards, especially the part with the watchtower and Asinara islands in the background.

Voyage Tips Advice If you plan to spend the day at the beach, go there as early as possible in the morning , to be sure to find a parking space.

One day is enough to visit the city of Alghero. You can even spend just half a day in the historical center, and the other half at the beach.

If you want to explore the area around Alghero while staying at the same hotel, you can easily stay for 3 nights and go around during the day.

To help you plan your trip to Alghero and be sure to see all the best points of interests , you should follow my recommended one week itinerary around Alghero .

You can read it here: The best North West Sardinia itinerary .

If you’re in Alghero only for one day , I recommend the following:

• Visit the old town and discover the historical monuments
• Lunch break
• Go for a walk along the lungomare
• Take a dip at Lido San Giovanni beach
• Watch the sunset from the ramparts 

For 2 days in Alghero, you can do the 1 day itinerary and for the second day, add:

• An excursion to Neptune caves
• Hiking in Porto Conte Regional Natural Park
• Take a break at Porto Ferro beach

For 3 days in Alghero and its surroundings, take the 2 days itinerary and add:

• Visit Bosa, located 1hour South of Alghero
• Enjoy the sun at Compultittu or S’Abba Drucche beaches.
• B&B Summertime: Located 10 min walking from the old city. New and modern double room starting from 60€/night, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly hosts, great homemade breakfast, very clean.
• Hotel Sa Cheya Relais & Spa: Located 5km away from Alghero. Comfortable and spacious double room starting from 120€/night, breakfast for an additional 15€. What I loved: the swimming pool, the tennis courts, very quiet and pleasant atmosphere, high quality breakfast. That’s my favorite hotel for its great value for money!
• Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA: Located 10min walking from Alghero’s historical center. This luxurious hotel offers antique style double room starting from 250€/night, breakfast included. Strong points: the swimming pool and its view, the ideal location and overall atmosphere of the place, super staff. The best choice for a luxury stay in Alghero!

• La Piadina del Pozzo:  Located on Via Minerva n25. It’s the ideal spot to quickly grab something to eat, this snack bar offers a wide selection of piadinas (Italian sandwiches). You can also compose your own with the ingredients you like. The sandwiches are generous and made with quality ingredients. They cost 5€ each.
• Ok Pizza: Located on Via Sebastiano Satta. This restaurant serves many kinds of pizzas, they’re all generous and delicious. They cost between 5.50€ and 9€.
• Azienda Agrituristica Sa Mandra: Located on Strada Aeroporto Civile. At this restaurant you can get a traditional Sardinian menu for 40€ per person, including antipasti, a pasta dish, meat, dessert, coffee and digestive. Drinks (wine and water) are also included in the price. Needless to say, it’s very copious!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Alghero, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sardinia? 😊

What about you – Are you going to visit Alghero during your trip to Sardinia?

Sardinia travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Sardinia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Sardinia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sardinia: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sardinia are listed here.

• The 25 Best Things to do in Sardinia
• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sardinia – With all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (North + South)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sardinia – How to visit Sardinia in 6, 7 or 8 days (North or South)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sardinia – The definitive guide to visit Northern Sardinia in 10 days!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sardinia – The perfect 14, 15 or 16 days itinerary in Northern Sardinia
• Itinerary: 14, 15 or 16 days in Sardinia – The perfect 2 weeks itinerary in Southern Sardinia
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Sardinia – With all my best tips to visit the whole island in 20 or 21 days!
• Itinerary: North West of Sardinia (1 week) – How to visit Sardinia in 6, 7 or 8 days from Alghero
• Cagliari: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
• Costa Smeralda: The definitive guide to plan your stay
• Gulf of Orosei & Supramonte: The 10 best things to do
• La Maddalena: All my best tips to visit the islands

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Alghero travel guide

Alghero tourism | alghero guide, you're going to love alghero.

With a population of 34,261, Alghero is a must-see destination in Sardinia, Italy. It is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country. We recommend you stay at least 4 days in order to fully appreciate everything Alghero has to offer.

When to visit Alghero

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Alghero in July, when the average temperature is 73.4 °F, and the highest can go up to 84.2 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 42.8 °F, with an average temperature of 50 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in November, when precipitation is around 4.1″. In contrast, July is usually the driest month of the year in Alghero, with an average rainfall of 0.2″.

How to Get to Alghero

When flying to Alghero, you’ll arrive at Alghero-Fertilia (AHO), which is located 5 miles from the city center. The shortest flight to Alghero from the United States departs from New York and takes around 11h 05m.

The train station in Alghero is called Alghero, and is located 1.1 miles from the city center.

Another option to get to Alghero is to pick up a car rental from Olbia, which is about 67 miles from Alghero. You’ll find branches of Rental Plus and B-Rent, among others, in Olbia.

Airports near Alghero

Airlines serving alghero, where to stay in alghero.

Average rates range from around $95 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $177 and up for a 5-star experience.

Where to stay in popular areas of Alghero

Most booked hotels in alghero, renting a car in alghero.

Renting a car in Alghero costs $31 per day, on average, or $124 if you want to rent if for 4 days.

It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 5% cheaper than airport locations in Alghero.

Expect to pay $7.72 per gallon in Alghero (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $92.67 and $123.56. The most frequently booked car type in Alghero is Mini (Fiat 500 or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Economy rental cars (Kia Rio or similar) are, on average, 88% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

Car rental agencies in Alghero

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A tourist-friendly town of about 45,000 inhabitants, with a distinctly Spanish flavor, Alghero is also known as "Barcelonetta" (Little Barcelona) for its strong Catalan ties. Rich wrought-iron scrollwork decorates balconies and screened windows; Spanish motifs appear in stone portals and bell towers. The town was occupied in the 14th century by the Aragonese and Catalans, who constructed seaside ramparts and sturdy towers encompassing an inviting nucleus of narrow, winding streets with honey-color palazzi. The dialect spoken here is closer to Catalan than Italian, although you probably have to attend one of the masses conducted in Algherese (or listen in on stories swapped by older fishermen) to hear it.

Besides its historic architectural gems such as the cathedral and Palazzo d’Albis, the fortified city is well worth a visit to simply stroll and discover local culture on narrow cobblestone streets. The city also has a reputation for serving great food at reasonable prices.

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Alghero, Italy Travel Guide: Spectacular Sardinian Beaches + Historical Sites

Kim Chwalek

I'm a 25-year old girl based in Denver, Colorado. Kim Collective is a space where I share about beauty, faith, food & home, style, travel, well-being, and everything in between. Thanks for stopping by!

Hi, I'm Kim

Over the summer, I had the opportunity to spend three days on the island of Sardinia, a province of Italy and the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Alghero is located on the North-West coast of Sardinia and contains incredible historical remnants of the Catalan-Aragonese conquests in the 16th century.

Alghero quickly became one of my favorite travel destinations. This ancient fishing town has it all–friendly locals, beautiful historical sites, delicious seafood, and scooter-accessible beaches. The colorful streets and seascape make the city a perfect place to relax and explore for three days. Keep reading to learn more about my trip to Alghero, including the camping site I booked, the best local beaches I visited, my favorite sites in Old Town, and my top-picks for local Italian cuisine.

If you want to read more about my favorite destination in Italy, check out Pompeii, Italy: Exploring the Ancient Ruins of the Lost Roman City . If you’re interested in learning more about Venice, Rome, or Florence, check out Venice, Italy: Traveling Through the “Floating City ,” Rome, Italy: Visiting the Colosseum , and Florence, Italy: 3 Days in the “City of Art and Culture.”

Villagio Nurral.

Porto Ferro Beach.

How to Get Around: Rent a Scooter!

Renting a scooter was by far my favorite memory from Sardinia. It was also one of my most reckless decisions I made because 1) my boyfriend and I had never ridden a scooter, 2) we were rejected by two separate rental companies, 3) we may have over-exaggerated our riding experience to the third rental company, and 4) the managers of the scooter company ran after us when they realized two inexperienced riders were accelerating into a busy street.

Although we had a rough start (my heart was pounding as we rode away from the shop and wove around the first few cars), riding the scooter became a breeze. Five minutes later, we were swerving around roundabouts, yelling “lean left” and “lean right,” and going full-throttle down the road to Porto Ferro, a beach 12 miles outside of Alghero. Along the way, we zoomed past vineyards, farms, and vast open fields, swerved around potholes, and waved at passing cars. I remember watching the speedometer approach 70km per hour and leaning my head to the left to watch the sunset saturate the land in a golden-reddish hue. We arrived at Porto Ferro in time to watch the sun disappear into the Mediterranean Sea.

Where I Stayed: Villagio Camping Nurral

The site was hot, dry, and shrubby – pine needles covered the ground next to my white stucco house and the temperature climbed to 98 degrees during the day. Out of all the hostels I crashed in throughout my summer backpacking trip, Villagio Nurral was one of my favorites. The campsite was simple, smack dab in the middle of a forest, and conveniently located to a bus stop. In the morning, I threw on a bikini and relaxed in the sun, and at night I played pool, drank at the main house with the locals, and fell asleep to the sound of crickets chirping and frogs croaking in the brushwood.

Alghero’s Beaches: Three Places to Relax, Tan, and Swim

The photo below was taken after a sleepless night of travel from Frankfurt, Germany to Alghero, Sardinia. Tristan and I landed at 6am and were unable to check into our hostel, Villagio Nurral, until noon. Instead of catching up on sleep at the tiny airport, we decided to call a taxi directly to the beach, one mile away from our hostel. Sweaty and tired, we dumped off our backpacks at the beach and spent hours tanning and swimming.

Three of my favorite beaches were Spiaggia di Maria Pia, Stabilimento Balneare Rosanna, and Porto Ferro Beach. While Spiaggia di Maria Pia and Stabilimento Balneare Rosanna were less than 2 miles from my campsite and easily accessible by the A.F. bus line, Porto Ferro was 12 miles North of Alghero and only accessible by scooter. If you have the chance to visit one of these three beaches, bring some loose cash to purchase a towel or blanket from a local vendor.

@tristanforseth

The Main Sites in Old Town

Sardinia’s historical center was tiny yet incredibly beautiful. Each narrow cobblestone street featured tiny hanging lanterns, live music, and a few shops and restaurants. Each morning, I took the A.F. line from Fertilia to Alghero to Ospedale Marino to walk by the harbor area and into the Catalan city center. Here, you can spend an hour or two peeking into shops, admiring the Cathedrals, and walking along the Sea Walls that border the ocean.

Forte della Maddalena (Front).

The main sites I recommend seeing in Alghero’s historical center are the Sea Walls, Campanile, and Forte della Maddalena, Torre di Sulis, and the Torre Porta a Terra. Constructed in the 16th-century, the campanile is Alghero’s most iconic landmark and embodies the beauty of Alghero’s Catalan-Gothic architecture. As for the Northern part of the city, the Forte della Maddalena was one of three forts built at the end of the 16th century to protect the city. Today, the fort is dedicated to Mary Magdalene and is used as a venue for local events and concerts. In the Southern part of the city, the Torre di Sulis was named after Vincenzo Sulis, a 19th-century Sardinian revolutionary who was imprisoned for 22 years within the tower.

Forte della Maddalena (Back).

Torre di Sulis.

Historical Center Cathedrals

A few of Alghero’s most famous churches include the Chiesa di San Francesco, Piazza Civica, Chiesa di San Michele, Cattedrale di Santa Maria. These churches are concentrated in Alghero’s city center and are open to the public during the day or night.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria.

Inside the Cattedrale di Santa Maria.

What I Ate : Plenty of Pasta & Gelato

When in Alghero, you cannot pass up on the Italian food – fresh fish and seafood, delicious pasta dishes, and local meats and cheeses. At nearly every restaurant you visit, carta di musica (music paper) is served on the dinner table. A few restaurants I recommend visiting are La Botteghina, Il Pesce d’Oro, and Trattoria Lo Romanì. For dessert, buy a few scoops of gelato from a nearby shop – Alghero Gelateria “Oops!” is a local favorite.

Caffe Costantino – Spaghetti with Clams.

My trip to Alghero, Sardinia was one I’ll always remember. From riding a scooter down the highway at 70km per hour to swimming and tanning at the local beaches, Alghero was one of my all-time favorite destinations. If you have any comments or questions about my trip to Alghero, leave them in the comments section below!

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Alghero Tourist Information

Welcome alghero, alghero tourist information & sardinian tourist services. advice, help, bookings and more.

Welcome Alghero is a tourist information website for Alghero, Sardinia and it’s surrounding areas.

With great weather all year round, and a beautiful port and old town, Alghero has a cosmopolitan attitude combined with Sardinian traditions and hospitality.

Welcome Alghero is focused on offering unrivaled levels of local information. This is what we pride ourselves on, and it’s our promise to our website visitors. Welcome Alghero is run by a small friendly team who have either lived in Alghero all their lives, or for many years. We have our fingers on the pulse and write from a first-hand experience.

Recommended  Experiences in Alghero

Things to do, eat & drink, hotels & guest houses.

WELCOME ALGHERO

NEW! ROAD OF TASTE TOUR

FIND OUT MORE

HAVE FUN WITH A SCOOTER-BIKE

FIND OUT HOW

CLIMBING The best crag in north-west Sardinia. Rocca Regina offers incredible views

FISHING Sport fishing and charters in the north of Sardinia

HIKING Hike through the countryside and breathe Sardinia.

KAYAK Explore secluded coves and the wonders of Capo Caccia by kayak

KITE SURFING The southwest wind libeccio and the mistral from the north create ideal conditions for kite surfers

PARAGLIDING Soar with the thermal wind from the hilltops over Alghero towards the coast and land at La Speranza beach

RIDING Explore Saridinia's unspoilt countryside on horseback. Ride along the beach at Porto Ferro

SCUBA DIVING Explore Capo Caccia for some of the best scuba diving in the Mediterranean

WINDSURFING

YOGA Join a yoga class with locals. Outdoor hatha and ashtanga during the summer months

WINE TASTING Cannonau? Vermentino? Taste the wines of Sardinia

SURFING Rent a surfboard, catch a wave. Porto Ferro and La Speranza among best spots in Sardinia

SAILING Sailboat excursions to Capo Caccia, stop for a swim in a hidden cove with turquoise water Learn to sail.

HYPNOTIST Want to stop smoking? Suffer from anxiety? Book a hypnotist session with us!

COOKING CLASSES Take a cooking class and learn the secrets of the Mediterranean cuisine

What are you looking for?

Search for hotels and guest houses in alghero and surrounding areas.

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Visit Alghero

Sandy beaches, a medieval old town and a cave complex named after a Roman god, Alghero is a fascinating vacation spot with lots of history and laidback coastal charms. Practice watersports, walk around ancient defensive walls, discover early Sardinian civilizations and venture into a sea grotto.

Start your vacation with a tour of Alghero’s old town and historic buildings. At its heart is Piazza Porta Terra, an ancient square on which stands the Torre Porta a Terra. This stone tower was once part of the entrance to the town. Enjoy lofty views from the top floor and visit the building’s interactive museum for insights into Alghero’s history. Other ancient structures include the fortified walls and the cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

While you are in the old town, browse the shops lining Via Roma, one of the city’s main shopping destinations. Inside jewelry stores, find pieces fashioned with bright red coral that are found in the nearby waters.

Take advantage of Sardinia’s 6-month summer by spending long days on the beach. Mugoni Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand where you can enjoy watersports and walk through a thick pine forest. Drive for about 45 minutes outside of Alghero for another popular coastal location, the cliffs at Capo Caccia. Take in spectacular views from the top and then descend the cliff’s 654-step stairway to reach Grotta di Nettuno. The grotto is filled with stalactites and is named after Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.

At the end of a day of sightseeing, stop by a traditional restaurant on one of Alghero’s cobblestone streets. Reward yourself with fresh seafood and Sardinian specialties, such as dishes made with lobster.

Reach the beautiful medieval city of Alghero and its picturesque coastline by flying into Alghero-Fertilia airport, about 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) away. Alghero is also within easy reach of Nuraghe di Palmavera, an ancient village of stone settlements that belonged to an early Sardinian civilization.

Where to stay in Alghero

Alghero City Centre

Alghero City Centre is noteworthy for its historic sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Piazza Civica and Alghero Market.

Visitors highly recommend Lido for its beaches, and you can make a stop by San Giovanni Beach while you're in town.

La Pietraia

While there might not be top attractions in La Pietraia, you can explore the larger area and discover places like San Giovanni Beach and Port of Alghero.

While there might not be top attractions in Pivarada, you can explore the larger area and discover places like San Giovanni Beach and Alghero City Hall.

La Taulera might not have many top sights, but San Giovanni Beach and Maria Pia Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

While there might not be top attractions in Sa Segada, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Sella and Mosca Estate and Maria Pia Beach.

• Alghero Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in Alghero

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Check Alghero hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

• Neptune's Grotto

Explore the great outdoors at Neptune's Grotto, a lovely green space in Capo Caccia. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

• Piazza Civica

Connecting the harbor with the Old Town’s streets, this central square is a good place to start your explorations and one that you will come back to many times.

• Nuraghe di Palmavera

The ancient stone ruins of this Nuragic site near Alghero, provide a tantalizing window into the lives and culture of an ancient Sardinian civilization.

• Alghero City Hall

Alghero City Hall is just one of the places to see in Alghero, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

• Bastioni Marco Polo

After visiting Bastioni Marco Polo, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Alghero Old City. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.

• Torre del Porticciolo

Learn about the local history of Alghero when you spend time at Torre del Porticciolo. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

Things to do

From fertilia: guided e-bike tour of alghero's coast, from alghero: le prigionette oasis guided e-bike tour, alghero: half-day sailing trip by vintage boat w/ tasting, reviews of alghero, 5/5 - excellent.

Highly recommend a trip to Alghero. The old town is gorgeous. The fort is in great shape and has amazing views. Very romantic city.

Mobs of tourists. Direct flights from London the cause. Use Algero as a base to rravel from. Absolutely fantastic city, just not in July / August if you want to avoid crowds.

History , art , culture , ciivilization ...

Beautiful awesome little old town very nice to go to! As we did many times!!

I wish I could have spent more time here! Absolutely incredible

Alghero is a must when you visit Sardinia.

• Cities near Alghero

Porto Conte

Capo Caccia

• Places of interest
• Maria Pia Beach
• Mugoni Beach
• Alghero Market
• Porto Conte Regional Natural Park
• San Giovanni Beach
• Lazzaretto Beach
• Punta Negra Beach
• Alghero Rock Climbing Sites
• Sella and Mosca Estate
• Coral Museum
• Church of St. Francis
• Cala Dragunara
• Le Ragnatele Adventure Park
• Alghero Walls
• Alghero Aquarium
• Torre del Porticciolo Beach
• Port Conte Marina
• Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju
• Golf Club Alghero
• Lazzaretto Tower Beach
• San Giovanni Tower
• Cathedral of St. Mary
• Palazzo d'Albis
• Piazza della Mercede

Alghero travel guide

Alghero tourism | alghero guide, you're going to love alghero.

With a population of 34.261, Alghero is a must-see destination in Sardinia, Italy. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. We recommend you stay at least 5 days in order to fully appreciate everything Alghero has to offer.

When to visit Alghero

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Alghero in July, when the average temperature is 23 °C, and the highest can go up to 29 °C. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 6 °C, with an average temperature of 10 °C. You’re likely to see more rain in November, when precipitation is around 104 mm. In contrast, July is usually the driest month of the year in Alghero, with an average rainfall of 5 mm.

How to Get to Alghero

When flying to Alghero, you’ll arrive at Alghero-Fertilia (AHO), which is located 8 km from the city centre.

The train station in Alghero is called Alghero, and is located 1.7 km from the city centre.

Airports near Alghero

Airlines serving alghero, where to stay in alghero.

From 5-star hotels such as the Smy Carlos V Alghero to great affordable options like the B&B Panorama Alghero , Alghero offers a range of accommodations for every taste. Average rates range from around ₹ 7,824 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to ₹ 14,731 and up for a 5-star experience.

Where to stay in popular areas of Alghero

Most booked hotels in alghero, hiring a car in alghero.

Expect to pay ₹ 170 per litre in Alghero (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your car hire, filling up the tank will cost between ₹ 2,042 and ₹ 2,722. Mini (Citroen C1 or similar) is the most popular car type to hire in Alghero, while also 47% cheaper than other types, on average.

Car hire agencies in Alghero