Alghero

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Alghero

Alghero is a coastal city in northwest Sardinia, famous for its beautiful beaches and rich Catalan heritage. Known as Barceloneta (Little Barcelona), Alghero offers a unique blend of Italian and Catalan cultures that is reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets of the historic old town, where you can visit the Church of San Francesco, a fine example of Gothic and Catalan architecture, as well as the ancient city walls and bastions that surround the area. Discover Neptune’s Grotto, a spectacular sea cave accessible by boat from the port or via a staircase from the top of the Capo Caccia cliffs. For stunning ocean views, visit Maria Pia Beach or Bombarde Beach. Don't miss out on Catalan-style lobster and other seafood dishes, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites or simply dining and relaxing, Alghero has something for everyone!

Travel Tips for Alghero

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Alghero

A guide to Alghero's local transportation

Bus

Taxi

Car Rental

Alghero’s bus network, operated by A.R.S.T., consists of four lines connecting various locations in the city, including the airport. Buses run every 20 to 60 minutes, making them suitable for those who are not in a hurry. Tickets cost €1-2 and can be purchased at convenience stores.

Practical Tips for Alghero

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top attractions in Alghero?

One of the city’s highlights are the Bastioni di Alghero (Bastions of Alghero), which surround the old town. Start your exploration at Bastioni Cristoforo Colombo and continue to Bastioni Marco Polo, Bastioni Pigafetta, and Bastioni Magellano. Enjoy walking along the cobblestone streets, stopping at the loopholes to look out at the sea. Another top attraction in Alghero is Capo Caccia, a protected marine area with stunning limestone cliffs. Here, you can also visit the famous Neptune's Grotto and marvel at its stalactites and stalagmites. For history enthusiasts, don't miss the Museo Archeologico della Città di Alghero. This museum showcases artifacts from ancient civilizations, including Nuragic, Phoenician, and Roman cultures.

What are the best beaches in Alghero?

Maria Pia Beach, just a short drive from the city center, offers shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming. For those who want to relax, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. You can also enjoy golden sand and clear waters at Bombarde and Lazzaretto beaches. These beaches are next to each other, and you can easily explore both by renting a pedal boat.

What is the best time to visit Alghero?

The best time to visit Alghero is during the summer, from June to August. The warm temperatures are ideal for swimming and sunbathing, and you can enjoy the Alguer Summer Festival, which features music performances throughout the season. Keep in mind that these are the busiest months, so make sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

How do I get from Rome to Alghero?

The quickest way to travel from Rome to Alghero is by plane. There are several daily flights from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Alghero Airport that take about an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train from Rome to Civitavecchia, followed by an overnight ferry to Porto Torres on Sardinia Island. From Porto Torres, you can travel directly to Alghero by car or take a train via Sassari.

What are some must-try dishes in Alghero?

When in Alghero, make sure to try the seafood dishes, such as aragosta alla Catalana (Catalan-style lobster). This lobster salad is made with fresh tomatoes and onions, drizzled with olive oil, lemon, and parsley dressing. Another must-try is ricci di mare (sea urchins), which is usually served with spaghetti. Pair these dishes with a glass of Vermentino di Sardegna wine to enhance the flavors.