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14 Best Things to Do in Alghero, Italy

14 Best Things to Do in Alghero, Italy: A Guide to Sardinia’s Cultural Gem

From coral coves to Catalan cuisine—Alghero is where history meets the sea.


Alghero may just be Sardinia’s most captivating coastal city—where Mediterranean beauty meets a unique blend of Catalan heritage, Italian architecture, and ancient Sardinian culture.

While much of Sardinia is known for its untouched beaches and remote wilderness, Alghero offers the perfect mix of history, cuisine, and adventure, making it the ideal base for exploring northwestern Sardinia.

From sailing with local captains to hiking dramatic sea cliffs and diving into the culinary traditions of the island, these are the 14 best things to do in Alghero, Italy.


1. Explore Alghero’s Historic Old Town

Start your visit by strolling the Bastioni Marco Polo, the 16th-century walls that wrap around Alghero’s charming historic center. Highlights include the Cattedrale di Santa Maria and Torre del Portal, once the main gate to the fortified city.

For added insight, consider joining a historic center walking tour or a Catalan heritage tour to understand Alghero’s distinct identity.


2. Sail Along the Sardinian Coast

The top-rated activity in Alghero is sailing—whether on a sleek eco-friendly yacht or a vintage tall ship. Captain Andrea’s full-day sailing tour is a local favorite, offering secluded coves, swimming stops, and a homemade seafood lunch.

Other options include catamaran cruises and the classic Andrea Jensen tall ship tour.


3. Visit Porto Conte Regional Natural Park

This protected coastal area offers e-bike tours, electric golf car safaris, and catamaran excursions with stunning views of cliffs, forests, and hidden military ruins. For adrenaline-seekers, coasteering trips combine cliff diving, rappelling, and swimming.


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4. Relax at Sardinia’s Famous Beaches

While Alghero itself doesn’t have iconic beaches, you’re within reach of several:

  • La Pelosa Beach in Stintino (reservations required in peak season)

  • Spiaggia di Maria Pia, accessible via bus or car

  • San Giovanni Beach, Alghero’s most convenient sandy spot

You can also explore multiple beaches on a guided e-bike tour.


5. Discover Neptune’s Grotto (Grotta di Nettuno)

Set within the cliffs of Capo Caccia, this dramatic sea cave is filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. Access is either via 654 scenic steps or by boat from Alghero Marina.


6. Hike the Cliffs of Capo Caccia

The panoramic trails along Capo Caccia’s wind-swept promontory are perfect for scenic hikes. Bring sturdy footwear and water—many paths are easy, but the views are always rewarding.


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7. Explore Nuraghe Palmavera

Located just northwest of Alghero, this 3,000-year-old Bronze Age settlement is a fascinating look into Sardinia’s prehistoric past. Join a self-guided audio tour or a private archaeological excursion that also visits the Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju.


8. Indulge in Alghero’s Culinary Delights

Sample langoustine pasta, suckling pig, pecorino cheese, and Catalan-inspired dishes like paella algherese. Wine lovers should explore local reds and floral whites.

A wine and olive oil tasting experience at a nearby farm offers delicious pairings and insights into Sardinian longevity.


9. Take a Sardinian Cooking Class

This farmhouse cooking workshop teaches you how to prepare traditional pasta, aperitivos, and Sardinian desserts, all paired with local wines. A culinary memory you can bring home.


10. Go Dolphin Watching

Dolphins often frolic near Alghero’s coast. Book a dolphin-watching catamaran tour, or go all-in with a marine biologist-led snorkeling trip in the Isola Piana Marine Protected Area.


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11. Visit the Coral Museum (Museo del Corallo)

Learn about Alghero’s coral-harvesting heritage at this small but informative museum dedicated to Corallium Rubrum, the rare red coral native to the region.

Opening hours:

  • Fri–Sun: 10:30 AM–1:00 PM / 4:30–7:00 PM

  • Mon & Wed: 4:30–7:00 PM

  • Tue & Thu: 10:30 AM–1:00 PM

Admission: €5


12. Go Horseback Riding by Lake Baratz

This two-hour trail ride along the dunes and forests of Porto Ferro and Lake Baratz, Sardinia’s only freshwater lake, is suitable for all skill levels and features horses rescued and rehabilitated by local caretakers.


13. Take a Day Trip to Bosa

Bosa, with its pastel-colored houses and riverfront views, is one of Italy’s most photogenic towns. Explore the old tannery district, visit Castello Malaspina, and cruise the Temo River.

Buses take one hour from Alghero (€3.70 each way).


14. Visit Asinara Island

Formerly a high-security prison, Asinara Island is now a protected marine and nature reserve. Hike the trails, swim in clear waters, and spot the white donkeys (asini bianchi) that roam freely.

Access is by ferry from Stintino or Porto Torres, or via sailing tours from Stintino.


How Many Days in Alghero?

  • 2 days: See the Old Town, sail the coast, and enjoy a beach

  • 3+ days: Add day trips to Bosa or Asinara and explore more of Porto Conte

  • 1 week: Fully unwind with beach days, tours, and culinary experiences


How to Get to Alghero

Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) is 15 minutes from town and served by low-cost carriers like Ryanair. Additional connections are available via Cagliari (CAG) and Olbia (OLB).

Tip: Sardinia is best explored by car. Consider a one-way road trip between airports.


Where to Stay in Alghero

  • Aigua (budget, self-catered apartments in the Old Town)

  • B&B Vecchia Alghero (mid-range, charming décor and central location)

  • Boat & Breakfast Alicudi (unique option with breakfast on deck)

[Find deals on Alghero accommodations here.]


Best Time to Visit Alghero

  • Best months: Early June and late September

  • Avoid: Peak July–August crowds unless you book well in advance

  • Festivals to note:

    • JazzAlguer Festival (April–November)

    • Redentore Festival in Nuoro (late August)


Alghero combines Sardinia’s dramatic coastlines and rich history with a culture all its own. Whether you're sailing to secluded coves, hiking along sun-drenched cliffs, or savoring seafood pasta at a family-run trattoria, Alghero is a destination that rewards travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more Mediterranean escapes, insider guides, and expert travel inspiration.

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