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!