Alghero is one of Sardinia’s most charming towns, with cobbled streets, medieval walls, and a vibrant port. We stayed here during our Sardinia trip and it quickly became our favorite base. This Alghero travel guide covers where to stay, what to eat, what to do, and the best day trips from Alghero.
Exploring Alghero’s Old Town
The old town is compact, walkable, and incredibly well-preserved. We spent hours wandering its narrow lanes, admiring the Catalan-Gothic architecture and the colorful houses. The city walls and bastions offer beautiful sea views, especially at sunset. Walking along the ramparts, you’ll often see both locals and visitors enjoying aperitivo with a view of the sea.
One highlight from our trip was a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets. It felt like stepping back in time, with the clip-clop echoing between the stone walls. The area is also spotless and well-maintained, which made the experience even better.
Cultural highlights worth a stop:
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria — Alghero’s main cathedral with a striking bell tower.
- Torre di Porta Terra — climb it for panoramic views.
- Museo del Corallo — dedicated to the coral trade that shaped Alghero’s economy.
- MUSA Archaeological Museum — small but interesting for history lovers.
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Dining and Snacks in Alghero
Food in Alghero is a mix of Italian and Catalan influences, and you’ll notice menus often written in both languages. We mostly had lunches in the center, and loved both the sit-down restaurants and the casual local spots. One day we tried simple panini and sandwiches from a family-run bar, which turned out just as tasty as a full seafood meal.
Local specialties include:
- Aragosta alla catalana — lobster with tomato and onion, a signature dish.
- Culurgiones — stuffed pasta pockets, a Sardinian classic.
- Sea urchin pasta (ricci di mare) — seasonal but unforgettable.
Even if you don’t sit for a full meal, the gelato shops and small bakeries are worth sampling. In the evenings, the town comes alive with street performers, lively bars, and plenty of places for aperitivo.
Boat Trips to Neptune’s Grotto
Alghero’s marina is beautiful, filled with sailboats and excursion boats. From here, you can join group tours or even rent your own boat for a day. We boarded a ferry from the port to Neptune’s Grotto, a stunning sea cave carved into the cliffs at Capo Caccia. The trip itself was worth it, with amazing views along the coast. Inside, dramatic stalactites and stalagmites fill the chambers.
If you’re feeling active, another way to reach the grotto is via the Escala del Cabirol, a stairway of 600 steps carved into the cliffside. The walk down (and back up) is demanding but unforgettable.
You can book a boat trip to Neptune’s Grotto with GetYourGuide or Viator.
Other tours from the port include:
- Sunset sailing cruises
- Snorkeling and diving trips
- Dolphin-spotting excursions
Best Hotels in Alghero Old Town
Alghero has a range of options, from boutique stays in the old town to beachfront resorts. Staying in the center means you’ll be steps away from historic streets and the marina, while beachfront hotels offer easy access to sandy shores like Maria Pia.
Booking a few months in advance is recommended, especially in summer when Alghero fills up quickly.
Beaches in Alghero
If you don’t want to leave town, Alghero also has beaches right by the city. Lido di San Giovanni stretches along the waterfront and is the easiest option, just a short walk from the center. For softer sand and clearer water, head slightly further to Maria Pia Beach, lined with pine trees that provide shade in summer. Both are family-friendly and convenient if you want to combine sightseeing with a beach day.
Day Trips from Alghero by Car
With a car, you can explore some of Sardinia’s best spots:
- Capo Caccia — dramatic cliffs, panoramic views, and the stairway to Neptune’s Grotto.
- Bosa — a colorful riverside town with pastel houses and the scenic Temo River. The coastal drive from Alghero to Bosa is considered one of the most beautiful in Sardinia.
- Beaches — Maria Pia is popular for families, Le Bombarde is lively with turquoise waters, while Mugoni offers calmer conditions and shade from pine trees.
Check car rentals from Alghero if you want flexibility beyond the city.
You can also join guided tours if you prefer not to drive:
Recap
Alghero combines history, seaside charm, and easy access to natural wonders. Between the old town walks, horse-carriage rides, relaxed lunches, and trips to Neptune’s Grotto, this Alghero travel guide shows why it’s one of the best places to stay in Sardinia. Add in day trips to Capo Caccia or Bosa, and you’ll have a trip that balances culture, nature, and relaxation.
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*All photos in this article were taken during our July 2024 family vacation in Sardinia.