Alghero, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Alghero Old Town (Centro Storico) is the best base if you want to prioritise atmosphere, walkability, and evenings that happen naturally—sunset on the bastions, a quick change at your hotel, then straight back out for dinner. Staying here puts you inside the walled-city rhythm, with most sights, bars, and restaurants within a few minutes on foot, and the marina promenade close enough for an easy pre-dinner stroll. A reliable, central choice right on the edge of the historic core is Hotel Catalunya, which is particularly convenient if you like being near both the marina and the lanes of the old city.

The Marina and seafront edge just outside the walls suits travellers who want views and quick access without the tighter streets and occasional noise of the historic centre. It’s a good compromise location for short stays: you can walk into the Old Town in minutes, but you also wake up to open water and an easy promenade for morning runs or sunset walks. If you want a more upscale, seafront feel that still keeps you close to the centre, Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa is a strong pick, especially for a higher-comfort, “stay-in” hotel experience that still allows you to walk into town.

The Lido San Giovanni and beach-promenade zone is the most practical area if your trip is beach-first, or if you like a modern, open layout with a long seafront walk and easy access to swim spots. It’s also a good option for families and anyone who values straightforward logistics (flat promenades, quick café stops, and fewer Old Town stairs). A solid base right by the beach strip is Hotel Alma di Alghero, which works particularly well if you want to split days between the sea and the historic centre without needing transport.

For a quieter stay with a resort-like feel, look slightly west toward the coastal stretch around the bay and the Porto Conte direction—ideal if your priorities are relaxation, sea views, and day trips (Capo Caccia, beaches, scenic drives) rather than stepping out into Old Town nightlife every night. The trade-off is that you’ll usually rely on a car or taxis for evenings in the centre, but you gain space and a more “holiday” setting. For this style of trip, El Faro Hotel is a strong choice, and if you prefer a calmer seafront position that remains relatively close to town, Smy Carlos V Wellness & Spa Alghero is another dependable option.

If you want something slightly removed from the bustle but still close enough for quick Old Town access, the Calabona area to the south is a useful middle ground—quieter, coastal, and well positioned for walking or short rides into the centre. It suits travellers who want evenings to be calmer while keeping the option of popping into town for meals and bastion walks. A convenient pick here is Hotel Calabona.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Alghero. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Alghero in Spring (Best)

Spring, from March to May, is the best time to visit Alghero. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). The town comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it an ideal time for exploring the historic old town, enjoying outdoor activities, and visiting nearby natural attractions like Neptune’s Grotto.

Visiting Alghero in Summer

Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Alghero. The weather is warm to hot, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. This is the perfect time for beachgoers to enjoy Alghero’s stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, the town can be crowded, and prices for accommodations are typically higher.

Visiting Alghero in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, offers cooler temperatures, typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The summer crowds begin to thin out, making it a more relaxed time to explore the town and its surroundings. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the local harvest season brings delicious Sardinian produce and wines to the forefront.

Visiting Alghero in Winter

Winter, from December to February, is the quietest time to visit Alghero. The temperatures are cooler, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), and the town is much less crowded. While some tourist services may be limited, this season offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for exploring the historic sites and enjoying the town’s authentic charm without the hustle and bustle of the high season.

Traveling to Alghero by Air

Alghero is served by Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO), located about 10 kilometers northwest of the town center. The airport offers both domestic and international flights, with connections to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Pisa, as well as several European destinations. From the airport, you can reach Alghero by taxi, rental car, or bus, with the drive taking approximately 15 minutes.

Traveling to Alghero by Ferry

Alghero does not have a direct ferry service, but you can travel by ferry to nearby ports such as Porto Torres, which is about 35 kilometers from Alghero. Ferries to Porto Torres are available from various locations, including Genoa, Barcelona, and Civitavecchia. From Porto Torres, you can drive, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach Alghero, with the journey taking around 45 minutes.

Traveling to Alghero by Train

Alghero is connected to the Sardinian railway network, with trains running from Sassari, the nearest major city. The train journey from Sassari to Alghero takes about an hour, providing a scenic ride through the Sardinian countryside. Sassari itself is well-connected by train to other parts of Sardinia, making this a convenient option if you are exploring the island by rail.

Traveling to Alghero by Car

Driving to Alghero is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore other parts of Sardinia. The town is accessible via well-maintained roads from various locations on the island. The drive from Sassari to Alghero takes about 30 minutes, while the journey from Olbia, another major Sardinian city, takes around 2 hours. Having a car also allows you to visit nearby attractions like the Capo Caccia cliffs and Neptune’s Grotto at your own pace.

Traveling to Alghero by Bus

Alghero is well-served by regional buses that connect it to other towns and cities in Sardinia, including Sassari, Bosa, and Cagliari. The bus station in Alghero is centrally located, making it easy to access the town's main attractions upon arrival. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel to Alghero, with regular services available throughout the day.