Alghero
A Catalan-influenced coastal gem with coral traditions, sea walls, and golden sunsets.
About Alghero
Alghero is unlike anywhere else in Sardinia—or Italy. This fortified coastal town was colonised by Catalans in the 14th century, and the influence endures: locals still speak Alguerès (a Catalan dialect), the old town's architecture is distinctly Iberian, and street signs are bilingual. The honey-coloured ramparts overlooking the sea are perfect for an evening passeggiata, and the old town's cobbled streets are lined with restaurants, coral jewellery shops, and wine bars. Alghero is the centre of Sardinia's red coral tradition—divers have harvested precious coral from the nearby Riviera del Corallo for centuries. Nearby, the dramatic Neptune's Grotto sea cave and the Nuraghe di Palmavera add natural and archaeological wonders.
Best Time to Visit
May to October. Summer for beach life and the lively old town atmosphere. September offers warm seas and fewer crowds. Spring is ideal for Neptune's Grotto and coastal walks.
Local Tips
- Walk the sea walls at sunset.
Alghero's bastions offer the best sunset views in Sardinia, looking west over the Mediterranean. A local will time the walk and book a table at a rampart restaurant for seafood with a front-row sunset seat.
- Visit Neptune's Grotto.
This spectacular sea cave is reached by boat or by descending 654 steps carved into the cliff. A local will advise on sea conditions, boat times, and the best time of day for the cave's dramatic lighting.
- Discover the coral tradition.
Alghero has been the centre of Mediterranean coral diving for centuries. A local can arrange a visit to a coral workshop where artisans carve this precious material into jewellery using age-old techniques.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Silvia
Ravenna, Ferrara +8
I’m an Italian travel consultant, licensed tour guide, and passionate traveler with over 20 years of experience helping visitors discover the real Italy. I was born and raised in Ravenna, the extraordinary city of mosaics, where I work as a licensed tour guide. My background in Art at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ravenna deepened my love for mosaics and history, and I enjoy sharing this passion with travelers who want to experience Italy beyond the surface. I’m also a certified environmental hiking guide and tour leader, and I love combining culture, nature, and authentic local life. When I travel, or design experiences for others, I’m always looking for inspiring museums, beautiful landscapes, great food, and memorable wines. In recent years I’ve also started hosting cooking classes in my home, where guests learn traditional Italian recipes and enjoy genuine Italian hospitality. While Ravenna and Emilia-Romagna are my home base, I also offer travel expertise for Sardinia, especially the province of Oristano, an area I know and love for its wild coastline, traditions, and authentic culture.
Walter
Cagliari, Olbia +3
Hi! My name is Walter, I live in Cagliari, the capital of beautiful Sardinia. My family has Sardinian roots going back many generations, and like many locals, I feel deeply connected to my homeland. As a native Sardinian, I know the island inside and out — its places, traditions, customs, food, wine, and everyday way of life. Over the past 20 years, more visitors have discovered the historical, architectural, and natural beauty of Cagliari, and I’d be happy to help you experience it in an authentic and complete way. I have a degree in Political Science and International Relations, specialising in Social Innovation and Communication, and I’ve worked as a tour leader in Cagliari for the past four years. Before that, I spent 15 years in retail promoting Sardinia’s excellent food and wine, so I can also guide you through the best traditional dishes and drinks. I’m an eclectic person who loves travel, sport, good food, nature, and connecting with people. Contact me if you’d like help planning your trip to Sardinia — I’d be happy to share my local knowledge with you.