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.
Ground transportation options are readily available at the airport, including taxis and rental car services, ensuring convenient onward journeys for visitors
The ARST bus company provides frequent rides to/from Alghero town. Bus tickets can be purchased at the automatic machine in the terminal hall.
OUR ADVICE
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Our Airbnb
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
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.
If you wish to inquiry about our property, please contact us directly at pcbayviewhouse@gmail.com or on Instagram or Facebook
CIN: IT090003C2000R2211
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:
- Maria Pia
- Bombarde
- Lazzaretto Beach
- Lazzaretto Coves
- Mugoni
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 9321 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 9321 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.
5) Mugoni
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 9321 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
- Mabrouk
- 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.
This is how to get around in Sardinia:
Alghero to Olbia
- By Car:
- 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.
- By Bus:
- 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
- Bus Companies: ARST (Regional Sardinian Transport Company) operates buses between Alghero and Olbia.
Alghero to Cagliari
- By Car:
- 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.
- By Bus:
- 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.
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: pcbayviewhouse@gmail.com
Our Instagram Page: Porto Conte Bayview House (@portoconte_bayviewhouse) • Instagram photos and videos
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