Sandy beaches, a medieval old town and a cave complex named after a Roman god, Alghero is a fascinating vacation spot with lots of history and laidback coastal charms. Practice watersports, walk around ancient defensive walls, discover early Sardinian civilizations and venture into a sea grotto.
Start your vacation with a tour of Alghero’s old town and historic buildings. At its heart is Piazza Porta Terra, an ancient square on which stands the Torre Porta a Terra. This stone tower was once part of the entrance to the town. Enjoy lofty views from the top floor and visit the building’s interactive museum for insights into Alghero’s history. Other ancient structures include the fortified walls and the cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
While you are in the old town, browse the shops lining Via Roma, one of the city’s main shopping destinations. Inside jewelry stores, find pieces fashioned with bright red coral that are found in the nearby waters.
Take advantage of Sardinia’s 6-month summer by spending long days on the beach. Mugoni Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand where you can enjoy watersports and walk through a thick pine forest. Drive for about 45 minutes outside of Alghero for another popular coastal location, the cliffs at Capo Caccia. Take in spectacular views from the top and then descend the cliff’s 654-step stairway to reach Grotta di Nettuno. The grotto is filled with stalactites and is named after Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.
At the end of a day of sightseeing, stop by a traditional restaurant on one of Alghero’s cobblestone streets. Reward yourself with fresh seafood and Sardinian specialties, such as dishes made with lobster.
Reach the beautiful medieval city of Alghero and its picturesque coastline by flying into Alghero-Fertilia airport, about 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) away. Alghero is also within easy reach of Nuraghe di Palmavera, an ancient village of stone settlements that belonged to an early Sardinian civilization.
