The cities by the sea with a port are just my thing. I love them. Alghero, a small city on the northeastern coast is one of the most beautiful cities I have been to in Sardinia so far. So let´s have a look, how I ended up here and what was I doing.
Why I was living in Alghero
I spent a week and a half by Alghero, driving by a car every day to Sassari for my traineeship. I was living in a camping place called Village Blu, which is a very nice camp that offers a full service – a restaurant, bar, shop, gym, lake, and sea across the road. The camp is lovely, unfortunately, you will have to choose a place with a number, but if you are lucky enough and there are not many people, you can easily take two numbers/places and no one will care. They have a delicious pizza as well as coffee and Aperol Spritz. For the breakfast though, find another place. They have many ovens situated all over the camp for making your own pizza or grilling. If you have your own gas grill that is not a problem.
There are many streets, so even on a very hot day, you will feel comfortable there. There is a lake near the camp and a nature park – both of them are very nice, I recommend walking there if you have some spare time.
Beaches in Alghero
The coastline surrounding Alghero boasts stunning beaches offer opportunities for relaxation and water sports. There are two beaches near Alghero – Spiaggia del Lazzaretto which is just across the street, and Spiaggia del Lido – which is a better one, with clearer water, but you can easily walk there. There is a lovely view of Alghero from both of them. Especially with the sunset and a beer – what else do you need, right? In most of the bars at the beaches, they serve my favorite brand of coffee – Lavazza.
The city of Alghero
The best time to go to Alghero is the evening. Having a coffee and gelato is a must, but if you prefer having dinner I recommend the seafood – it is delicious there. Plus you get a nice view as well. The city is fairly small, you will probably begin your tour at the port and then walk through an „old gate“ which will lead you to the city. There are many small streets with shops, restaurants, and bars – and it somehow all fits in there. I love the shops with the traditional Sardinian food, even though I haven´t bought anything yet. I loved the city and would recommend it!
With its charming old town, sun-kissed beaches, and fascinating history, it has become a popular destination for travelers. Originally founded by the Catalans in the 14th century, the city still bears their influence in its architecture, language, and traditions. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of the well-preserved old town, known as the “Barceloneta of Sardinia,” and admire the medieval walls, Gothic churches, and vibrant squares.
The iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria and the imposing Torre di San Giovanni are must-visit landmarks that showcase the city’s rich history. To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in delicious Catalan-influenced seafood dishes at the harbor-front restaurants while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset views. Alghero is undoubtedly a captivating destination that seamlessly merges its historical heritage with its breathtaking coastal beauty.
Why is Alghero special and different?
Alghero holds a special place in Sardinia due to its unique blend of Catalan and Italian influences. The city’s distinct cultural heritage sets it apart from other destinations on the island. While exploring Alghero, visitors can appreciate the well-preserved Catalan architecture, experience the Catalan language still spoken by locals, and savor traditional Catalan-inspired cuisine.
This fusion creates an enchanting atmosphere that allows travelers to immerse themselves in a different culture without leaving Italy. Additionally, Alghero offers stunning beaches with crystal-clear water, picturesque coastal landscapes, and a vibrant old town filled with narrow streets and charming squares.
The city’s rich history, exemplified by its medieval walls and impressive landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria and Torre di San Giovanni, adds to its allure. Alghero truly stands out as a destination that provides a captivating mix of cultural diversity, natural beauty, and historical significance.
Keen to visit other cities in the North of Sardinia? Why not have a look at my guide of Castelsardo? Or if you’re looking for the ultimate guide, here’s every place that is worth visiting in Sardinia.
