A quick flight from Rome (but a world away from Amalfi Coast crowds), Alghero is where you go when you want a laid-back beach town with actual locals. Considering it’s not mainstream, there are a few things to know ahead of time. This guide on how to visit Alghero breaks down the best beaches, where to stay, and plenty more.
Alghero sits on Sardinia’s northwest “Riviera del Corallo,” roughly level with Barcelona if you dragged it into the Tyrrhenian.
Fly direct from Rome Fiumicino (FCO) to Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO): 1 hour, nonstop, multiple flights daily on ITA Airways. This is the fastest and easiest route.
Fly into Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB): Then drive ~1.5 hours (135 km) to Alghero. The drive is scenic and worth it if you’re planning to explore the north.
From Alghero airport to the city center:
Public Bus (Line ALFA): €1–€3, runs hourly, takes 25 minutes to reach Via Catalogna. The bus stop is an easy walk 150 meters to the right of arrivals.
Car Rental: Highly recommended to fully explore the area and visit out-of-the-way beaches and towns. Rentals are located within the airport terminal.
Bike Rental: If you’ve packed along your sense of adventure, hop on a bike and cruise 40 minutes into town. This is also a great way to get around town if you don’t want to rent a car.
Where to Stay in Alghero
The historical center may look like the obvious place to stay, but it’s also a traffic-restricted zone (ZTL), which makes driving and parking a headache. You’re better off staying down the coast or on Via del Lido. It’s close to beaches, bars, and nightlife, and it’s easy to park your car and settle in.
Hotel Punta Negra
Photo courtesy of Hotel Punta Negra
€€€€ | 4 Star |Beachfront | Resort Feel
Tucked just north of town, this resort-style hotel sits directly on the beach and has two pools. Ideal for travelers with kids or anyone wanting a full-service, all-day relaxation at their doorstep.
Five minutes from the ramparts and home to a fabulous rooftop bar. It’s tidy, sophisticated, and not that expensive considering what you’re getting. Plus, there’s handy underground parking next door.
A clean hotel with a great location. Plus, a rooftop pool and bar, a gym, and a playground for kids. It’s great for couples and families who want a comfortable base near the beach.
Just down the road from Alma, this 3-star stay is affordable and well-kept. The pool is at ground level and there’s a casual bar on site—ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on location.
White sand, dreamy shades of blue, and shallow water you can wade through make this one of Sardinia’s most popular beaches. Definitely make a reservation before you go, and if you want to avoid the crowds, visit first thing in the morning.
Entry: €3.50/person, book online.
Parking: Easy access by car (1 hr drive from Alghero), parking is available but limited.
To get to La Pelosa Beach by public transport, take an ARST bus from Alghero’s Via Catalogna to Fertilia Airport, then transfer to a Sardabus heading to Stintino—get off at “Stintino Spiaggia La Pelosa.” The trip takes about 2.5 hours total.
Just 15 minutes from town, this is the pick if you want a sandy beach with limited hassle. It’s great for swimming and snorkeling, and its restaurant, J&B Le Bombarde Beach, gives you plenty of reasons to linger for the day.
Around the bend from Le Bombarde, with fine white sand and awe-inducing turquoise water. It’s compact, so it can get crowded in peak summer. Arrive early and embrace the local atmosphere.
Generally less chaotic than Lazzaretto or Bombarde, this is one of the most relaxing beaches around Alghero. Its wooden boardwalk, shallow waters, and natural shade from pine trees make it perfect for families and those who prefer peace over fancy amenities.
Sunbeds: Reserve in the morning by calling their number on Google Maps
Parking: Free
Food: Bar with snacks + paid restrooms (€1.50 or free with sunbed rental)
Where to Eat in Alghero
It’s all about seafood in Alghero—with a Catalan twist that shows up in both technique and ingredients. Most servers in the historical center speak English, and the good restaurants book up quickly.
Consistently packed for a reason. The staff is friendly, the food is reliable, and the wine list is excellent. Start with cozze (mussels) and don’t skip the linguine all’astice (lobster with claws).
Interessante Fact: In English, both aragosta and astice are often translated as “lobster,” but they’re actually different. Aragosta is the spiny lobster, with no claws, while astice is the European lobster, with claws and darker shell.
A more upscale option and the right place to try Catalan-style aragosta alla catalana (spiny lobster). Their appetizers are also exceptional and worth ordering.
A fixed-menu experience with several options based on how much you want to eat. The seafood is always fresh, and the spiny lobster tasting menu (€75) includes multiple appetizers and a pasta course. Reservations are required by phone.
How to Visit Neptune’s Grotto
Carved into the cliffs at Capo Caccia, Neptune’s Grotto is arguably Sardinia’s most dramatic sea caves—and it’s only 40 minutes west of Alghero. Venture inside to discover soaring stone ceilings, mirrored pools, and eerie rock formations that look like they belong in a fantasy novel.
To get there from Alghero:
By car: Drive 40–45 minutes toward Capo Caccia and park near the top of the cliffs.
By bus: ARST line 9321 connects Alghero to Capo Caccia, but service is limited—check timetables in advance.
By boat: Tours depart from Alghero’s harbor and take you straight to the cave entrance (weather permitting).
Once you arrive, you have two options:
Walk down the Escala del Cabirol, a 654-step cliffside staircase with incredible views. Keep in mind you’ll have to climb back up.
Take the boat right into the grotto if the seas are calm. Less effort, same wow factor.
Tour info: Entry is €14 and includes a guided 45-minute visit. Book in advance online.
Interessante Fact: The cave was once only accessible by sea—until the daring staircase was carved into the cliff face in the 1950s.
Add on a Day Trip to Bosa
If you have a free day in your Alghero itinerary, make it Bosa. This laid-back town sits along the Temo River and is known for its colorful riverside buildings and medieval charm. It’s about an hour’s drive each way, and worth carving out time for.
Getting to Bosa:
Drive the SP105 coastal route (1 hr). Scenic and direct.
Bus service is minimal, renting a car is best.
Once you’re there:
Visit Castello Malaspina: 12th-century castle at the top of town, sweeping views, €5 entry.
Wander Bosa’s old town: Colorful houses, artisan shops, and backstreet bars.
Cross the Ponte Vecchio: Arched red bridge with the classic postcard view.
Dine at S’Iscugia: Stone-lined interior, fresh seafood, and just a handful of tables. Book online in advance.
Final Thoughts: How to Visit Alghero
Alghero isn’t the flashiest spot in Sardinia, but that’s the point. It’s walkable, sun-drenched, and still full of locals doing local things. You’ll eat well, sleep even better, and probably come home wishing you’d stayed longer.
Want more planning tips for your trip to Sardinia or Italy in general? Check out these articles:
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