Alghero is a beautiful coastal town in northwest Sardinia, Italy. Known for its medieval charm, Spanish influence, and clear blue waters, Alghero offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature. With warm weather, sandy beaches, and delicious food, it’s a great place to relax and explore. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, here are the best things to do in Alghero.
1. Explore the Historic Old Town
Alghero’s Old Town is full of charm. Walk through its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively piazzas. The town still has a strong Spanish influence, and you’ll notice it in the architecture and even the local language. Visit Piazza Civica, the heart of the town, and enjoy the local shops and cafés.
2. Walk Along the City Walls
Take a walk along the old city walls, also called the bastions. These walls face the sea and offer beautiful views, especially at sunset. You’ll find small bars and restaurants where you can sit and watch the sun go down while enjoying a drink or snack.
3. Visit Neptune’s Grotto
A must-see natural wonder near Alghero is Neptune’s Grotto (Grotta di Nettuno). This large sea cave is full of rock formations, stalactites, and underground pools. You can reach it by boat from Alghero or walk down the famous Escala del Cabirol, a long staircase with stunning views.
4. Relax at the Beach
Alghero is home to some lovely beaches. Maria Pia Beach is close to town and has soft white sand and shallow water, perfect for families. Le Bombarde and Lazzaretto Beach are a short drive away and are great for swimming, sunbathing, or having a picnic by the sea.
5. Take a Boat Trip
One of the best ways to enjoy the coast is by taking a boat trip. You can visit hidden beaches, explore sea caves, and swim in crystal-clear water. Some tours also include food and drinks, making it a fun and relaxing experience for the day.
6. Try Local Food and Seafood
Alghero offers a mix of Italian and Catalan food. Be sure to try lobster in Catalan style, fresh seafood pasta, and fregola, a local pasta dish. For dessert, try seadas, a sweet pastry filled with cheese and topped with honey. The town also has many cozy restaurants and cafés to enjoy.
7. Discover Coral Jewelry
Alghero is known for its red coral, which is made into beautiful jewelry. Visit local shops to see handmade coral necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. You can also stop by the Coral Museum to learn more about the history and tradition of coral diving in the area.
8. Visit Nuraghe Palmavera
Take a short trip from Alghero to see Nuraghe Palmavera, an ancient stone village built thousands of years ago. It gives a glimpse into the island’s early history. Guided tours help explain how people lived in these stone buildings long ago.
9. Enjoy Sunset at Capo Caccia
End your day by visiting Capo Caccia, a cliff that offers one of the best sunset views in Sardinia. The view of the sea from the top is breathtaking. It’s also close to Neptune’s Grotto, so you can plan both visits together.
Final Thoughts
Alghero is a special place full of charm and beauty. From its old town streets and sea views to caves, beaches, and tasty food, it has something for everyone. Whether you love history, nature, or just relaxing by the sea, Alghero is a great destination for your next Italian getaway.
