About Alghero
The city of Alghero can be found in northwest Sardinia, and is part of the Sassari province. One of the most beautiful and interesting destinations on the island, it still preserves its distinct medieval charm, with the famous strong city walls, the stunning heritage of the historical center, the charming beaches and seascapes nearby or its special Catalan legacy. Alghero town has around 40,000 regular inhabitants, while the summer months can double or even triple its population with tourists and visitors. Due to its amazing cultural and natural heritage, the year-round mild climate and the warmth of its people combined with a character of authenticity, it has become a very popular travel destination. The history of Alghero goes back for many centuries and has always been linked to the sea, a trait still very visible today. Through the centuries, the stronghold of Alghero has been disputed among the great maritime powers of those times, the influence changing from the Genoese to the Catalans and back to the House of Savoy. Settled from pre-historic times according to archaeological evidence, the area of Alghero has also known the rule of Phoenicians, until the Genoese family Doria built a sea stronghold in 1102, increasing its importance as a strategic spot. After a short period under the rule of Pisa, Alghero was conquered by the Crown of Aragon in 1353, remaining under its influence for several centuries, a period when the local population was massively expelled and replaced by Catalan colonists. This has left a deep mark on the city, much of its architecture, language, gastronomy and other areas being influenced by the Catalans. Through time, Alghero town was also known as Little Barcelona, sharing with the big city a strong connection to the sea. The strong walls of Alghero have been carefully maintained and reinforced through the centuries, becoming an almost impregnable fortress by the sea, heavily defended by the house of Aragon. At one point in time, outsiders did not even have the right to stay inside the city overnight, the entrance being regulated and only possible through the two main gates which can still be visited today: Porto Terra and Porto Salve. It was only in 1720 that Alghero and the entire island passed under the rule of the House of Savoy, beginning a long voyage marked by transformations and tragedies, leading to the city that is today, one of the most important and fascinating places on Sardinia and a remarkable destination in Italy. With its strong Catalan heritage, many of the people of Alghero still speak a Catalan dialect specific to the city, together with Sardinian, Italian and Catalan. Beautiful Alghero has always been in touch with the sea, protected inside a lagoon by the northern peninsula which today features a protected marine area containing the famous Neptune’s Grotto.
Alghero Map
- ✔ Use the Google and Booking map below to explore the area.
- ✔ Fill in your holiday dates to get an accurate view of available accommodations near Alghero.
Where to Stay in Alghero - Our Top Picks
Hotel Sa Cheya Relais & Spa
One of the top hotels in Alghero is Hotel Sa Cheya Relais & Spa. It lies deep in the heart of the Sardinian countryside and offers 360 degree views of the stunning landscape and hills. Just over 3 miles outside of Alghero, the hotel offers every guest a buffet breakfast, tennis courts, and a pool. Visit the Villasole restaurant that’s attached to the hotel, and enjoy traditional and modern dishes that have a Sardinian twist. Every single room in the hotel comes with a private patio or terrace, ensuring guests have the privacy they need during their stay. Guests can also choose between a room with a view of the hills, balcony, or the pool, helping to add a personal touch to their time at the hotel. With a 24 hour reception and a spa, the hotel lies in a 5-hectare park land that was transformed from unkempt marshland into a charming hotel that has been created with the local area and Sardinian traditions in mind. The hotel has been elegantly decorated with modern touches that help to make your stay even more special. Situated in the hills, you may be forgiven for thinking you are in the middle of nowhere, making it ideal for those who want peace, quiet, and a touch of luxury during their time away.
Hotel Oasis
Located close to the beach in Alghero and Fertilia, Hotel Oasis is situated opposite a pine forest, which leads straight to Maria Pia Beach. The hotel is the ideal destination if you’re bringing young children on vacation with you. With two play areas and a pool, the little ones will be kept entertained. A buffet breakfast is served at the hotel’s restaurant, as are Italian and Sardinian meals, in addition to many other dishes. Every room in Hotel Oasis has a balcony, air conditioning, and free WiFi. Guests can choose between a standard or an economy room, and every room has been furnished in a simple but elegant style. Standard rooms look out over the swimming pool, or other hotel rooms, depending on where you would like to stay. Economy rooms can be found on the first floor, and overlook a rooftop that’s been filled with flower boxes and vases, to give it that special touch. Guests can take a walk along the local beach, or dip their toes in the deep blue sea, before making their way back to the hotel through the pine forest. With a touch of elegance added to all of the rooms, the pool and pool area, Hotel Oasis is the ideal getaway for families or couples who like the finer things in life.
Hotel Alma di Alghero
With a 1 minute walk to and from the beach, Hotel Alma di Alghero is home to a Turkish bath and a pool that has hydromassage, helping to soothe your aching bones. Decorated in a contemporary style, and with a 24-hour reception, the hotel offers breakfast daily until 11 am. The swimming pool that is open to every guest overlooks the beach, making it a lovely spot for an evening swim, as you watch the sun go down. The hotel itself has a modern but clean look, and every room has a balcony, with some offering a view of the sea. Guests are encouraged to rent a car or a scooter from the hotel, but they can also hire a Renault Twizy, which is similar in style to two-seater Smart cars. The hotel’s bar offers you the chance to unwind after your day in the sun, and the massages offered by the hotel will both relax and revitalize you after a hard day lounging on the beach in the sunshine.
Hotel Calabona
Hotel Calabona is a 4-star hotel in Alghero that has everything a young family needs on their vacation. With a perfectly safe play park, located in a very green area that will appeal to young children, and a babysitting service that comes with a small charge, you know your children will be kept entertained. Leave your children in the care of the babysitting service while you and your other half take a walk along the beach, or simply enjoy a bit of alone time. The Hotel itself comes with two outdoor swimming pools, which is ideal if you want to get a bit of exercise in before you head to the beach. Nestled in a sandy and rocky bay, the beach is known for its emerald green waters and incredible views. Head to the beach which is close by, and go for a dip in the ocean, as the sun beats down on you. With nine different types of rooms to choose from guests can opt to stay in a standard room, a superior room with a sea view, a Corallo suite, and more. Every room has been beautifully decorated, and even the standard rooms come with an en suite bathroom, TV, mini bar, and telephone.
Corte Rosada Hotel & Spa - Adults Only
Located right next to the Mediterranean, the Corte Rosada Hotel is extremely popular with couples and home to a wide range of facilities. Featuring a spacious interior with bright décor, the hotel is also known for a particularly friendly staff and a world-class spa treatment center. When it comes to the amenities, you will find few small luxury hotels in Sardinia which offer the same variety. After all, the spa treatment is merely an example of the many things to do at the hotel, for tennis courts are also on site while windsurfing, canoeing, and snorkeling are all available in the private beach area. You will also find a sauna and Jacuzzi at the treatment center but either way, there is no end of things to do at Corte Rosada. The rooms are bright and feature some genuinely luxurious furnishings. In some cases, this luxury extends to the rooms having a large sofa and Jacuzzi, but either way, the rooms are immaculate and endearing throughout. All considered the interior decoration of the rooms is both simplistic and comforting while the range of facilities more than lives up to expectations. Guests often prefer to sit out on the balcony, and this is another highlight of these beautiful rooms. Guests can also choose to dine in the Gazebo Restaurant at the hotel where a buffet meal is provided in the evening. As you might expect, this included a wide range of seafood and local dishes but also a variety of Mediterranean food with an international twist. For those who want something more specific, there is also the option of picking from the a la carte menu. When you step outside this boutique hotel in Sardinia, the swimming pool is hard to ignore, for this beautiful expanse of water is crystal clear and incredibly clean. Furthermore, the private pool is surrounded by luscious gardens and views of the Mediterranean Sea. As you can see, Corte Rosada is a nice hotel for couples which never fails to delight those looking to stay active in the midst of pure relaxation.
Villa Mosca Charming House
Villa Mosca Charming House is a rustic and incredibly charming guesthouse in Alghero with scintillating views and a very authentic homestay-like experience. That is to say, the ancient facades and surrounding décor create quite a traditional ambiance, while the terraces outside offer some of the most impressive views in the region. At the same time, this is a luxury stay and private hideaway at the heart of an ancient town. In fact, when you catch that first glimpse of the Villa Mosca Charming House, the exterior is almost a prelude to the experience to come. In this sense, everything feels somewhat elegant inside the home, and the colors are a sublime mix from one room to another. With the above in mind, some of the bedrooms are lighter than others, but overall, they are consistent concerning luxury. Featuring comfortable beds, large windows and a range of antiquated furnishings, there is also a very traditional feel to these rooms that blends seamlessly with the rest of the experience. Each night, guests are invited to dine at the restaurant which is home to a variety of local dishes and memorable seafood cuisine. In fact, many guests opt to eat in most evenings, and the live music is a wonderful touch and further encouragement to stay. Meanwhile, out on the terrace, some sunbeds line up next to a beautifully manicured lawn, and the panoramic views are nothing short of breathtaking. Indeed, this is one of the real highlights of Villa Mosca Charming House which offers a space of relaxation and an inviting hot tub in what is widely regarded as one of the most decadent boutique hotels in Sardinia. Overall, this is an excellent romantic getaway in Alghero which is best suited for couples. While the interior is somewhat antiquated in places, there is also a touch of contemporary while the excellent food and nightly music ensure there is little more one could ask for.
Things to Do in Alghero
Explore Grotta di Nettuno (Neptune’s Cave)
Located just a short distance from Alghero, Grotta di Nettuno is a spectacular cave in the Regional Park of Porto Conte and one of the most exciting things to do in Alghero. Neptune’s cave is the most famous in all of Sardinia and arguably the most fascinating remnant from prehistoric times. You can follow several tracks within the caves, and the rock inside is said to date back more than two million years. What’s more, this is also the largest cave in Sardinia with the network stretching for over 4 kilometers. While only part of this cave is open to visitors due to health and safety reasons, this most certainly does not take away from the incredibly unique experience. As one of the best things to do in Alghero, visitors can take boat trips from the harbor, and the journey takes in beautiful views of the ocean and nearby mountains. Once inside the caves, a mystical encounter ensues, and visitors are welcome to explore deep into the darkest corners. The cave is suitably lit, and guides are always on hand to ensure safety for all visitors.
Explore Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Conte
The Porto Conte Regional Park spreads out along more than 60 kilometers of coastline and features beaches, cliffs, and several exotic wildlife species. For most visitors, immense boulders hanging over the water offer a striking first impression, while various caves such as the Grotta di Nettuno and the submerged Grotta di Nereo are especially popular. At thirty-five meters deep, it may not seem particularly enticing but Grotta si Nereo is a spectacular encounter with crystal clear water and beautiful red coral. As you may know, Neptune's Cave is better known as the largest is Sardinia and features some immense stalactites. Grotta Verde also dates back to ancient times and consists of fossils, ceramics, and many archaeological sites. For example, you will even find nuragic complexes here such as Sant’Imbenia and Palmavera. As if that’s not enough, Roman ruins exist such as the impressive bridge over Calich. On the other hand, many unspoiled areas exist near the bay of Porto Conte and various hiking trails can be found in the nearby woodlands. In many ways, this is the best way to explore the natural beauty of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Conte, while the bars, restaurants, and amenities ensure there is more than just a few reasons to consider this as one of the best things to do in Alghero.
Visit the Chiesa di San Francesco
Located near Porto di Alghero - Marina di Sant'Elmo, the Church of San Francesco is one of northwest Sardinia's most impressive Gothic-Catalan churches. This church is at the center of Via Carlo Alberto, where the initial foundation was laid back in the 13th century. Featuring a bell tower on top and various styles of architecture also make this quite a striking sight in the city. Meanwhile, the attached chapels and presbytery are remnants from the very first version of the church and a fascinating insight into an ancient world. Most of the Chiesa di San Francesco has been rebuilt over time, and this was indeed necessary in 1593 when the church collapsed. As for the interior, the single nave and side chapels still feature the old architecture. The Renaissance style also shines through and gives the façade a unique and colorful appearance. You will also find several floors in the church; the abbey is the oldest section, while the bell tower and imposing exterior are arguably the highlights of Chiesa di San Francesco.
Horseback Ride at Lake Baratz & Porto Ferro
Discover the serene beauty of the Alghero countryside on horseback on a relaxing two-hour trail ride. Experience the tranquility of nature as you ride through seven kilometers of winding forest paths and sandy beaches near Alghero. The adventure begins at Lake Baratz, the only freshwater lake in Sardinia, where the scent of pine forests fills the air. Ride through the forest and descend to the beach, passing expansive dunes along the way. The tour continues along Spiaggia di Porto Ferro, a picturesque coastline stretch bordering the historic Riviera del Corallo. Discover the Spanish watchtowers from the 17th century and the vibrant blue waves crashing on the shore. After about two kilometers of beach riding, your guide will lead you back to the barn, where the tour ends. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the school! The tour guide speaks Italian, English, and Czech.
Historic Center Walking Tour with Guide
Embark on an enriching journey through the captivating city of Alghero on this walking tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll traverse the ancient walls, marvel at the Aragonese towers, and meander through the charming cobblestoned streets of the picturesque "centro storico" (historic center). This guided walking tour offers a delightful blend of historical insights and unique touches, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Designed for small groups, the tour fosters a friendly and intimate atmosphere, allowing you to engage with the cultural aspects shared by the expert guide. As you stroll through the narrow streets, lined with the majestic sea as your backdrop, you'll unravel intriguing stories and uncover fascinating curiosities about Alghero's past. Learn about the rich history of this remarkable region of Sardinia, stepping back in time as you visit historic buildings, churches, and picturesque squares. The program begins with a meeting at Hotel Catalunya, then exploring Porta Terra, the entrance to the old fortified city. You'll trace a route between the impressive Aragonese towers and defensive walls from there. Delve into the architectural splendors and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Alghero's captivating landmarks, churches, and squares!
Full-Day Sailing Excursion
Go on a captivating sailing adventure at the Capo Caccia Marine Protected Area and indulge in a mouthwatering seafood feast prepared by the skilled skipper right on board! You will set sail towards the westernmost cape of Sardinia, surrounded by the serene expanse of the Mediterranean Sea. The coastline in this region is adorned with majestic cliffs that gracefully meet the water, treating you to breathtaking vistas. Playful dolphins may grace you with their presence, adding an enchanting touch to this already magical experience. Throughout the sailing trip, you'll be able to make stops at scenic spots like the Gulf of Pischina Salida and Capo Galera. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, go on a snorkeling or SUP adventure, or unwind and soak up the tranquility. It's a day to be cherished and shared with your dear friends and family. Lunch will be served on board, featuring a tempting appetizer of crostini paired with prosecco or a refreshing soft drink. Enjoy a first course of seafood, accompanied by a selection of wine, soft drinks, water, coffee, and a delightful digestif. The meeting point is at Coral Sail Alghero - Pier 5.
Le Prigionette Oasis Guided E-Bike Tour
Hop on an e-bike for an active day excursion as you venture into the Porto Conte Regional Natural Park, specifically the Le Prigionette Nature Oasis, also known as 'Noah's Ark.' This bike tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, invites you to embrace the natural wonders of Alghero! Your journey begins along a network of well-defined paths that meander through the lush park, allowing you to take in the scents and colors of the Mediterranean flora. Along the way, encounter a variety of fascinating domestic animals, including the albino donkey of Asinara, graceful deer and fallow deer, agile foxes, vibrant partridges, and majestic griffon vultures. Next, climb to the summit of Mount Timidone, where you'll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama. Bring a camera so you can capture the moment against this breathtaking backdrop! Afterward, descend through the forest, tracing your path to reach the cliffside before returning to the park exit. The e-bike ride covers approximately 35 kilometers, with a manageable 600-meter height difference, making it suitable for participants of all skill levels. The tour spans approximately three hours, beginning at the Roman villa Santa Imbenia car park, then into the Porto Conte Park, exploring the Le Prigionette Oasis, marveling at Cala Barca, conquering Mount Timidone, and finally returning to the car park. E-bike rental and helmet are included.
Wine Tasting at the Ledà d'Ittiri Wine Resort
Sardinia is a marvelous place for winetasting, and Alghero is no exception. 10 kilometers from the center of Alghero, at the foot of Monte Doglia, you can taste local delicacies at the Ledà d'Ittiri Wine Resort and walk through their vineyard and olive grove. Upon arrival, your friendly guide will welcome you to the tasting room. As you settle in, you'll be escorted to your table, where a delightful scene awaits! Five distinct glasses and a tempting tray of appetizers will be beautifully arranged, perfectly complementing the wines. Learn about the farm's history, the local area, and rich cultural heritage. Your guide will captivate your senses as they lead you through a guided tasting of each wine. Discover the unique characteristics of each local grape variety, allowing the aromas and flavors to dance on your palate. You'll also receive insightful suggestions for food pairings, enriching your appreciation of the wines. The experience concludes with a sampling of their exceptional extra-virgin olive oil. Crafted using traditional cold pressing techniques, it is served alongside traditional bread, creating a delicious combination. Should you wish to take a piece of this unforgettable experience home with you, the opportunity to purchase the showcased products will be presented. After the wine tasting, you can walk through the vineyard at your own pace.
More Places to Visit Near Alghero
Alghero Restaurants - Where to Eat
Al Tuguri (Italian Food)
🏠 113, Via Majorca, Alghero, Sardegna, 07041, Italy.📱 Telephone: +39 079 976772 Browse the Menu
The exquisite Italian cuisine in Al Tuguri never fails to satisfy visitors who arrive with cravings for the best pasta on the Sardinian West Coast. The ambiance is also timeless with the top floor dining area designed with simple rustic interior with painting. It offers traditional vibes with the dark green floral table cloths giving a relaxing hue. Al Tuguri usually offers a first course, main course, then the dessert to give an unforgettable dining experience. Among the best tasting menus includes the Fisherman’s Menu, The Menu of the Territory, and the Market Gardener’s Menu. The meal starters, first courses, grilled fish, and shellfish, to the grilled meat, are truly mouthwatering. There are also vegetables, cheese, and an excellent list of wine to choose from. True enough, it is one of the most sought after dining destination serving the tastiest red tuna fish in the nut crust, bonorva, black and white linguine with stingray, sea bass marinated in seasoned salad and brown sugar, mussels, and more from one of the best Alghero restaurants. Pasta lovers can also enjoy ricotta filled ravioli, spaghetti with crabs, spaghetti with spiny lobsters or some truly unique dishes including the roast eel, bean soup, and pardulas. With the great location, medium price range, and amazing dishes, the Al Tuguri should absolutely be on your list of top choices for dining in Alghero.
Ristorante The Kings (Seafood, Italian Food, Traditional Sardinian Food)
🏠 5, Bastioni Marco Polo, Alghero, Sardegna, 07041, Italy.📱 Telephone: +39 079 979650 Browse the Menu
Dishes fit for royalty await in the kitchen of The Kings Restaurant. Located at the Cavour 123 Bastioni Marco Polo 5, this is one of the most popular Algerho restaurants, and they serve locally produced pasta, meat, fish, and vegetable in typically Sardinian and Italian styles. Also, the wine cellar of this excellent restaurant stores the great selection of regional wines which best represents the local grape blends. They even provide meals which are recommended by the chef as well as the wines. The staffs are friendly and provide excellent customer service. Moreover, the location is very strategic with a beautiful sunset view which adds to the superb value of their dining experience. Impressively, the Kings Restaurant ensures that every meal is enjoyed with the beautifully presented courses of sea bass, tuna, to pasta, and mousse. You can sit in comfort while waiting for the tastiest meals you can find in Alghero. For instance, the beef fillet with red wine sauce is a popular choice among diners. Local vegetarian pasta with a cream rocket is also perfect for those who avoid meat. They also offer bread which tops the list in Sardinia. With genuine excellent service and a vibrant atmosphere, the King Restaurant lives up to the royalty and expectation inside every customer.
Ristorante Nautilus (Seafood)
🏠 4/A, Forte della Maddalenetta, Alghero, Sardegna, 07041, Italy.📱 Telephone: +39 333 430 0979 Browse the Menu
Right at the heart of Alghero resides the Nautilus Restaurant which is always ready to welcome guests with a warm ambiance and Algerian tradition. The cuisine here is also very nutritious using only the light ingredients and fresh sea foods. In fact, it is often thought to be the best restaurant in Alghero for fish lovers because of the typical northwestern sea food dishes they serve. Among the many bestselling dishes of the great restaurants in Alghero includes the mixture of crudités and tare tare, grilled fish, and dessert cheese board. They provide impressive plates together with the spectacular scenery while in the balcony. The harbor views are fantastic and add to the magical charm of the restaurant. Remember to book in advance to get the best seats because Nautilus is one of the most sought after restaurants in Alghero. For regular customers, the squid, swordfish, white sea bream, prawn, and langoustines are among the best dishes to select. They also provide sublime and tasty servings for every menu. You can also choose the best wines from the Sardinian Vermentino white wine to the red wines. Visiting this eatery is also highly recommended as Nautilus is one of the most genuine restaurants in Alghero that you can find.
Alghero Nightlife
SardOa
SardOa is right at the heart of Alghero nightlife and has a reputation of being one of the best wine bars in the town. Many locals and visitors also know this establishment for the cuisine, for SardOa also delivers an awe-inspiring food experience. Situated just opposite the Santa Maria Cathedral, the wine bar is easily accessed and features a wide range of wines from the surrounding area. What’s more, you will find quite a Spanish influence here, for many wines come from the Basque Country, while the cheese and snacks also hail from northern Spain. However, SardOa also features a selection of spirits to cater for other preferences. As for the interior, you should find the antiquated features create quite a warm ambiance, while the friendly staff is always quick to make guests feel welcome. While SardOa might not be the most lively spots for Alghero nightlife, it’s most certainly an excellent experience with exceptional wines.
Café Latino
Café Latino is a wine cocktail bar and one of the best places for nightlife in Alghero. Although first opened back in 1989, you will find a very modern or cosmopolitan vibe, and this is matched in the elegance of the interior. On the other hand, Café Latino is also known for having quite a demanding clientele and one that demands only the best presentation when it comes to their drinks. In terms of the design, the lounge is a very private area, but there is also an outdoor terrace where sofas, armchairs, and sublime views can be found. Although Café Latino doubles as an eatery, things liven up after dark, and it becomes one of the more vibrant spots around town. It’s true, the panoramic terrace is possibly the most significant draw, but with such a friendly atmosphere, this is also just a great place to relax and enjoy some of the best cocktails and Alghero nightlife.
Il Ruscello
Il Ruscello is a famous club in Sardinia and certainly one of the better-known places for nightlife in Alghero. As a rule, the crowd is quite young and excited compared to elsewhere in town, and this is often due to the upbeat tempo of the music. From hour and pop to Latin beats, DJ’s love nothing more than rousing the crowd into a frenzy in what is one of the most exclusive clubs on the island. Unlike most clubs, Il Ruscello also opens every day of the week. With three separate ‘rooms,’ this is also the largest Alghero nightlife spot and themed parties are common in each one. Different music is played in each section, and each of these ‘rooms’ is outdoors. Il Ruscello also has an exquisite interior with high-quality lighting and audio along with some extremely diligent staff. If you wish to mix with the young and lively in Sardinia, this is definitely the best spot for nightlife in Alghero and one that rarely fails to impress.
How To Get To Alghero
Have you thought about arranging a rental car in Sardinia?
For some great deals, check out our Sardinia Car Hire page!
Flights from the UK
- The nearest airport to Alghero is Alghero-Fertilia Airport.
- Most direct flights from London Stansted to Alghero-Fertilia Airport usually take about 3 hours.
- Most direct flights from London Stansted to Alghero-Fertilia Airport are handled by airlines including Ryanair, EasyJet, Thomsonfly.
Arriving in Alghero is fairly easy; the city being serviced by an airport located about 10 km outside town. Flights from big cities of Italy and several European capitals land on the Alghero Airport. Another option would be to fly to Cagliari International Airport and catch a bus or rent a car to reach Alghero. Within the island itself, there are mainly two options of getting around, driving or renting a car and by using the trains. A local train runs to the provincial capital of Sassari, while the public national trains offer connections to Cagliari. Within the city of Alghero, it is fairly easy to explore and get anywhere on foot, and although driving is also an option, parking places are scarce in the tourist season.
Beaches Near Alghero
Cala Bramassa
Read More
Spiaggia di San Giovanni
Read More
Cala Gigliuppi
Read More
Spiaggia di Porticciolo
Read More
Spiaggia di Porto Ferro
Read More
Spiaggia di Fertilia
Read More
Spiaggia del Lido di Alghero
Read More
Spiaggia di Mugoni
Read More