Things To Do
in Alghero
Alghero sits on Sardinia's northwest coast, enclosed by 14th‑century walls and crowned by the shimmering Mediterranean. Its historic center preserves Catalan-influenced architecture and winding lanes that lead to a busy harbor. The coastline nearby offers dramatic cliffs, long beaches, and coves perfect for swimming and sunset strolls.
A rich culinary scene of seafood, pasta, and Sardinian specialties complements a vibrant summer atmosphere and coastal charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of Alghero's historic center, where you can admire the ancient Catalan Gothic architecture. Stop by the bustling Piazza Civica to enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast of espresso and pastries at a local café. As the sun rises, the vibrant colors of the buildings create a picturesque backdrop perfect for photography enthusiasts.
After your morning exploration, visit the stunning Alghero Cathedral, where you can appreciate its intricate design and historical significance. Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood pasta while overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Spend the afternoon wandering through local artisan shops, picking up unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
As the sun sets, head to the Bastioni Marco Polo for a breathtaking view of the coastline. Indulge in a traditional Sardinian dinner at a charming trattoria, sampling local wines and specialty dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk along the promenade, listening to the waves lapping against the shore.
Kick off your day at the beautiful Lido San Giovanni beach, where the golden sands and clear waters invite you to relax. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, enjoying the warm sun while sipping on a refreshing cocktail. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding to explore the tranquil waters.
After soaking up the sun, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside café, sampling local fish dishes paired with a crisp white wine. Spend your afternoon swimming or participating in thrilling water sports like windsurfing or jet skiing. For a more tranquil experience, take a short boat trip to the nearby Coral Coast, known for its stunning underwater scenery.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset beach walk, watching the sky transform into hues of orange and pink. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, where you can taste delicious grilled seafood while enjoying the sound of the waves. Conclude your evening with a gelato from a local shop, savoring the flavors as you stroll along the beachfront.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍷Bottle of local wine | $8-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🛏Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline, historic architecture, and vibrant seafood scene
- Compact, walkable old town with authentic Sardinian culture
- Peak-season crowds can be busy and pricing higher
- Some distant beaches require a car or longer transit; nightlife is more low-key than in big cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning/Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Alghero
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic sea cliffs and a famous sea cave; a must for dramatic coastline photography, especially at golden hour.
Rugged fortifications and Gothic-Catalan architecture with harbor views; iconic cityscape shots from the walls.
Colorful fishing boats, reflections on calm water, and the waterfront lights as evening falls.
Seafront promenade with frequent activity, perfect for candid street photography and sunset portraits.
Food in Alghero
Alghero Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sardinian semolina gnocchi served with sausage ragu and pecorino; a timeless pasta dish found in many local trattorie.
Must-Try!
Potato-and-mint stuffed dumplings sealed with a decorative edge, typically served with tomato sauce or olive oil and pecorino.
Roast suckling pig, often prepared for celebrations but available in traditional osterie; expect a succulent, smoky centerpiece.
Warm semolina pastry filled with pecorino and drizzled with honey for a sweet-savory finish.
Thin, crispy Sardinian flatbread often served with olive oil, cheese, or as a base for other dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively municipal market near the old town offering fresh seafood, cheeses, vegetables, and locally produced olive oil—great for a quick sample of shelf-fresh bites.
Harbor-front stalls and casual spots offering fried calamari, grilled seafood, and other street-style bites with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera when entering shops or cafes; a brief nod or handshake is common.
Bring modest clothing for churches; remove hats and speak softly in religious sites.
Meals are relaxed but paced; it’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting. Don’t rush in eateries; enjoy the conversation.
In residential areas please keep voices down after late evenings, especially near local homes and churches.
Safety
Tipping in Alghero
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated, especially in nicer restaurants. Tipping porters or taxi drivers is discretionary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller venues. Contactless payments are standard, and receipts are usually provided on request.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming coastal landscapes; great for walking tours, fewer crowds, and comfortable sightseeing.
Hot days with sea breezes; peak crowds. Plan early starts, enjoy beaches, and book dinners in advance; evenings stay lively along the harbor.
Pleasant weather and calmer streets; ideal for hiking, wine-tasting, and cultural visits without the peak-season hustle.
Milder than much of Europe, with occasional rain and cooler evenings. Some tourist facilities may shorten hours; a good time for museums and coastal walks when dry.
Alghero at Night
Hiking in Alghero
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal ridge walk with sweeping sea views, limestone cliffs, and opportunities for wildlife watching.
Forest and coastal trails with lagoons and birdlife, suitable for half-day hikes and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Alghero by plane.
Primary gateway to Alghero, with domestic and international flights; taxi or bus into town.
Northern Sardinia gateway about 150–180 km away by road; convenient for broader island trips and bus transfers.
Southern Sardinia gateway several hours away by car or domestic flight; useful if combining a longer Sardinia itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with strong regional traditions, often multilingual and welcoming to visitors.
European and international travelers flock in summer for beaches, festivals, and nightlife around the harbor.
Some residents relocate here for milder climates and coastal lifestyle, contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched, with local matches and casual games around town.
Coastal winds and calm bays make sailing and windsurfing popular in coastal areas and nearby lagoons.
Clear marine waters around Capo Caccia and nearby reefs offer interesting dive sites.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alghero.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes and vegetable-based plates are readily available. Ask for sauces and broths to be prepared without meat; you’ll find culurgiones and baked vegetables-friendly options and pane carasau with ricotta or olive oil as a light choice. If unsure, request a vegetarian version of specials and avoid seafood-heavy dishes.