Alghero between the Old Town, nuraghi and the coast

If you’re looking for a hotel in Alghero, it helps to first decide which themes you want to shape your stay. If you’re interested in the city’s history, the historic centre tells its story; archaeological sites and coastal landscapes offer different perspectives. The places below provide concrete pointers for planning your trip.

Old Town and cultural heritage

Alghero’s historic centre is a maze of lanes leading to lively squares. The yellow walls and old houses recall the city’s Catalan origins. The Torre di Porta Terra also offers a striking glimpse into the city’s history: it is the only surviving section of the land-facing walls, which were completely demolished after 1867. The tower houses an information point that presents and promotes Alghero’s cultural heritage.

Several museums explore different themes. The Museo Diocesano d'Arte Sacra is housed in the old Church of the Rosary in the historic centre. Its collection includes liturgical silverwork from the cathedral, wooden sculptures dating from the 16th to the 19th century, and 17th-century paintings. The Museo del Corallo is housed in an elegant Liberty-style villa. It explores the history and biology of coral, as well as the economy that developed around its processing.

The Teatro Civico also offers a specific historical reference point: it opened on 29 November 1862 with a performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s melodrama “I Masnadieri”. Alghero’s towers and walls are currently used for cultural events and other activities; individual programmes may change. If a particular date matters for your trip, check the event listings in advance.

Palmavera and archaeology

The Palmavera Nuragic complex lies just a few steps from the sea, in the heart of Porto Conte Park. Its main tower dates from 1600 BC and retains its chamber, complete with its characteristic false-dome vault. The site also includes the remains of a complex nuraghe, originally made up of three towers, as well as a village. The pentagonal wall surrounds the nuraghe, separating it from the village huts.

If you want to put the site and finds from the area’s broader history into context, two perspectives complement each other: Palmavera shows the architectural layout, with its tower, chamber and village; the Museo Archeologico di Alghero preserves finds from the area’s earliest human settlements.

The coast and routes to the Grotta di Nettuno

Alghero’s coast is known as the Riviera del Corallo and stretches for about 90 kilometres. Much of it is protected as part of the Capo Caccia–Isola Piana marine area. At Maria Pia, just outside the built-up area, sand dunes are covered with centuries-old juniper trees. Le Bombarde beach is characterised by clear water and a bright, sandy seabed.

You can reach the Grotta di Nettuno via the Escala del Cabirol, a staircase with 654 steps, or by sea. Boats depart daily from Alghero’s marina or the Cala Dragunara landing in Porto Conte; check the timetable before your trip. Entry is permitted only when weather and sea conditions allow. This restriction is just as important when planning a visit as choosing between the staircase and the boat.

Discover more destinations: Florinas, Torralba, Ploaghe, Usini, Stintino, Mores, Santa Maria La Palma, Ardara

For the broader travel overview: Sassari.