Alghero & the Coral Riviera – Mini-Guide
On this Alghero mini-guide, we’ll discover the pretty town of Alghero on the north-western coast of Sardinia, a city with a fascinating history and unique beauty. Its name is linked to the Riviera del Corallo (Coral Riviera), a stretch of coastline known for the presence of the prized red coral, the city’s symbol and the focus of a craft tradition that is still alive today. Strategically located, Alghero has experienced Catalan dominations that have left an indelible imprint on its language, architecture and cuisine.
🔹 The Historic Centre: What to See
The heart of Alghero retains a medieval atmosphere with narrow streets and ramparts overlooking the sea.
Do not miss
- Marco Polo ramparts for a panoramic walk.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria, an example of Catalan Gothic.
- Sulis Tower and the Tower of San Giovanni.
- Piazza Civica, the hub of the historic city.
Recommended excursion: Historical city tour with local guide (duration 1h 30min)
🔹 Alghero’s Beaches: Where to Go and How to Get There
Alghero offers some of the best beaches in Sardinia, easily accessible by car or public transport

Main beaches of Alghero
- Lido di San Giovanni: the town beach, perfect for families.
- Maria Pia: famous for its sand dunes and pine forest.
- Le Bombarde: ideal for snorkelling and water sports.
- Lazzaretto: enchanting coves and crystal clear sea.
- Mugoni: sheltered bay with calm water, perfect for relaxation.
How to get there
- Seasonal ‘Beach Bus’ bus line connects the centre with the main beaches.
- Car hire recommended for greater freedom.
Recommended excursion: tour of secret beaches and the coast (duration 7h)
Parco Naturale di Porto Conte
A protected natural area that encompasses some of the most striking landscapes in the area
What to see in the Porto Conte park
- Hiking or cycling along scenic paths.
- The majestic Capo Caccia cliff with breathtaking sunsets.
- The famous Cabirol staircase (656 steps) leading to the Neptune Caves
🔹 Recommended excursion: one-day boat trip with lunch (duration 7h 30min)
🔹 Archaeology: historical sites in Alghero
Alghero and its surroundings are home to archaeological sites of great historical value.
To visit
- Nuraghe Palmavera: one of the best preserved in Sardinia.
- Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju: 38 prehistoric tombs excavated in the rock.
- Villa romana di sant’Imbenia: remains of a luxurious Roman villa
Recommended excursion: Visit to the Nuraghe of Palmavera and Porto Conte Park
🔹 Recommended Tours and Excursions
For sea lovers
- Catamaran excursion with aperitif.
- Snorkelling day in the Coral Riviera.
For nature lovers
- Trekking at Capo Caccia.
- Jeep excursion in the Porto Conte Park.
🔹Where to Sleep: Recommended Hotels and B&Bs
🗺️ Budget: Hotel El Balear
🏨 Comfort: Hotel Alma
🌟 Luxury: Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa
🏕️ Rural: Agriturismo Casale degli Ulivi
🏖️ Alternative: Rifugio di mare
Food and Restaurants: Typical flavours of Alghero
Algherese cuisine is a unique fusion of Sardinian tradition and Catalan influences
What to eat
- Paella all’algherese
- Catalan-style lobster
- Fregola with seafood
- Fish soup (Copatxa de peix)
- Catalan cream
Where to eat
- Lo Romani
- Il pesce d’oro
- Mabrouk
- Agriturismo Sa mandra
🔹 Suggested tour: Cooking class in a typical Sardinian house with dinner
ℹ️ Useful Info for Visiting Alghero
📅 Best period: spring, June, September, October to avoid the summer crowds.
✈️ How to get there: Alghero-Fertilia airport (10 km from the centre).
🚗 Recommended means of transport: hire car to explore the surroundings. (Prices from 20€ per day on DiscoverCars →)
📍 Visit bluAlghero.com for lots of interesting facts and tips on the wonders of Alghero!