Alghero – holiday tips for Sardinia
Alghero is one of the most beautiful towns in Sardinia – a blend of historic ramparts, turquoise sea, great food and a laid-back atmosphere. Stroll through the old town scented with salt and coffee, discover white beaches like La Pelosa, head out to Neptune’s Grotto or to fairytale Bosa, and in the evening enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets over the harbour.
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🌅 Alghero and north-west Sardinia – a guide to the sea, history and day trips you won’t forget
In the north-west of Sardinia, where the rocks turn orange and the sea shifts between turquoise and sapphire, lies the town of Alghero – one of the most enchanting places on the island.
Old stone ramparts shelter narrow lanes that have kept their Catalan character to this day, and the scent of fresh fish drifts up from the harbour. Alghero has a special atmosphere – calm yet lively, romantic and effortlessly Italian.It is the perfect base for a holiday where you can alternate lazing on the beach, exploring history, trips into nature and, of course, excellent food and wine.
🏖️ The most beautiful beaches around Alghero
Spiaggia di Maria Pia
A long sandy beach on the edge of town, easy to reach on foot or by bike. The sand is fine and white, the water shallow and calm. Behind it grow pine woods that provide pleasant shade and that unmistakable scent. In the height of summer it is the ideal refuge from the sun-baked stone of the town centre.
Le Bombarde
A favourite with locals and tourists alike – crystal-clear sea, bars, sunbed rentals and great snorkelling. When the wind picks up, the water sparkles so brightly it is almost blinding. The perfect spot for a summer’s day when all you want to do is switch off and gaze at the blue horizon.
Lazzaretto
Just around the corner from Le Bombarde, but quieter. Small coves separated by rocks, transparent water and a stunning view of Capo Caccia. Come early in the morning or late in the afternoon and you can have a little piece of paradise all to yourself.
Mugoni Beach
A beach in the bay of Porto Conte, sheltered from the wind and surrounded by pines. The sea here is as calm as a mirror, the water shallow and warm. Ideal for families and for anyone seeking peace and nature. Nearby you’ll find a few campsites and small bars where they’ll make you a great espresso or a mojito with a view over the water.
🍽️ Where to eat – places worth seeking out
Alghero has a superb food scene – a mix of traditional Sardinian cooking and Catalan influences. Seafood, fresh fish, pasta, wine and simplicity – a combination that never disappoints.
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Pesce d’Oro – a classic among local restaurants. Homemade seafood pasta, grilled fish and excellent wines from the Sella & Mosca winery.
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Ristorante Lido – right by the sea. It serves the legendary metre-long pizza, perfect for a group of friends. In the evening there’s a beautiful sunset and pleasant music.
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Pizzeria Cajo – in the heart of the historic centre, with stone walls, the aroma of the oven and authentic Neapolitan pizza. Thin dough, San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala – honest quality in every bite.
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Nautilus – an elegant restaurant on the promenade. If you fancy a romantic dinner, book a table on the terrace – the view of the harbour and the sunset is unforgettable.
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Focacceria Milese – a small stand by the harbour that is an institution among locals. Focaccia stuffed with tuna, tomatoes and olives – simple, cheap, perfect.
🌄 The best day trips from Alghero
🐚 Neptune’s Grotto (Grotta di Nettuno)
A natural gem hidden in the cliffs of Capo Caccia. You can get there by boat from the harbour or down the 654 steps carved into the rock (Escala del Cabirol). Inside, vast cave chambers open up, with stalactites and an underground lake. The water keeps a constant temperature and the atmosphere is almost magical.
🏰 Nuraghe Palmavera
Just a few kilometres from Alghero you’ll find the remains of the prehistoric Nuragic civilisation. Stone towers, round huts and the remnants of an ancient village are a reminder that Sardinia’s history stretches back thousands of years.
🌾 Piscina di Zio Peppe
A natural saltwater pool with healing mud, frequented mainly by locals. The place has a charm all of its own – no luxury, just nature, silence, sea salt and sunshine. Great for a short stop on your way out of town.
🌈 Bosa
One of the most picturesque towns in Sardinia. The road from Alghero to Bosa is among the most beautiful coastal drives on the island – a ribbon of switchbacks winding between the mountains and the sea. The town itself looks like a postcard: pastel-coloured houses, narrow lanes, the river Temo, and above it all the Malaspina castle. An ideal trip for a full day.
🏰 Castelsardo
A medieval town built on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. Stone alleys, staircases, a castle, a small harbour – and an atmosphere you won’t forget. A wonderful place for an early-evening stroll and dinner with a view.
🏝️ Stintino and La Pelosa beach
One of the most famous beaches in all of Sardinia. White sand, azure water and a shallow sea reminiscent of the Caribbean. Out in the water rises the old watchtower, Torre della Pelosa. In high season entry must be booked in advance – but it is well worth it.
🐢 Asinara Island
A national park and former prison, today a haven of peace and nature. Boats sail here from the port of Stintino – you can hire a bike or an electric golf cart, or join a guided tour.
The island is famous for its white donkeys, crystal-clear sea and utterly unspoilt nature. A perfect place for anyone seeking silence and open space.
🌇 Alghero in the evening
As the day tilts towards evening, the town transforms. People gather with wine on the ramparts at Bastioni Marco Polo, music drifts from the cafés and the air smells of salt and pizza.
The sunset here has a special power – orange light plays across the stones of the old walls and the whole town falls quiet. In that moment you understand why Alghero is called the “little Barcelona of Sardinia”.
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