Located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Italy, Alghero is a charming town with a rich history and stunning beaches. This article will guide you through the best ways to get around Alghero, explore its historic center, and make the most of your trip.
Getting to Alghero: A Convenient Airport
Alghero-Fertilia Airport (ALF) is the main entry point for tourists arriving in Sardinia. With multiple daily flights from Italy and Europe, it’s easy to reach this beautiful island. The airport is located 10 km away from the city center, making it a convenient starting point for your Alghero adventure.
How to Get to Alghero City Center from Fertilia Airport
There are several ways to reach Alghero city center from the airport:
- By Bus: Take the A.L.F.A line bus from the airport parking lot (€1.00, 20 minutes journey)
- By Taxi: The journey takes 20 minutes and costs approximately €20.00
Exploring Alghero on Foot
Alghero’s historic center is fully pedestrianized, making it a pleasure to explore on foot. Start your journey at Porta a Mare, then visit the 16th-century Santa Maria Immacolata Cathedral, and finally enjoy the view from the Bastioni of San Marco and San Cristoforo.
Shopping in Alghero
Local artisans’ shops sell traditional products and coral jewelry, making for a unique shopping experience. Be sure to check out the local markets and try some Sardinian specialties.
Public Transport: A Convenient Option
Although the historic center is pedestrianized, public transport can be used to visit nearby beaches. The urban bus service (ARST) connects various areas of Alghero, including beach resorts. Tickets can be purchased at authorized vendors or at the ticket office at Giardini Pubblici.
Bus Information:
- Frequency: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Ticket price: €1.00 (per single journey) / €1.50 (if purchased on board)
- Daily ticket: €2.80
Train Information:
Alghero has a central station, but only regional trains run through it, operated by Trenitalia.
- Frequency: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Ticket price: €2.00 (per single journey) depending on destination
Driving in Alghero: A Must for Beach Access
It’s recommended to have a car to access outlying areas, such as beaches and neighboring villages. However, the historic center is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), so it’s best to leave your vehicle at a designated parking area outside the city and walk or use public transport.
Limited Traffic Zones:
The entire city center is affected by ZTL regulations, which prohibit vehicles from entering within certain hours. The zones are active between midnight and 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM. Residents, police, and vehicles for cargo and unloading have special permits to bypass these restrictions.
Parking Areas:
There are designated parking stalls (blu) with a fee of €0.50 per hour near the historic center. You can also park in the Piazza dei Mercati area, connected to main attractions via a 10-minute walk. Other nearby parking areas include Piazzale della Pace and Via XX Settembre.
Beaches in Alghero
Alghero offers numerous beaches for you to enjoy. The most popular ones are:
- Praia di Lido: A quiet beach located on the southern shore, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Lido Beach: Located on the northern shore, this beach is ideal for families with kids.
- Golfo Aranci: A picturesque beach nestled in a bay, offering clear waters and stunning views.
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Beach Information:
- Some beaches may have limited access during peak season due to high tourist traffic. It’s recommended to arrive early or visit less crowded areas like Lido Beach.
- The beach is free to use, but there are some services available, such as showers, picnic areas, and bars.
Conclusion:
Alghero is a hidden gem in Sardinia, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its convenient airport, public transport system, and affordable daily tickets, it’s easy to explore this charming town on your next Italian getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I get to Alghero city center from Fertilia Airport?
- Take the A.L.F.A line bus from the airport parking lot (€1.00, 20 minutes journey)
- Or take a taxi from the airport (20 minutes, approximately €20.00)
- Is Alghero’s historic center pedestrianized?
- Yes, it is fully pedestrianized.
- What is the best way to get around Alghero?
- Public transport is convenient for visiting nearby beaches, while walking or using a car are recommended for exploring outlying areas.
- Can I use public transport to visit the beaches?
- Yes, the urban bus service (ARST) connects various areas of Alghero, including beach resorts.
- How much does a daily ticket cost in Alghero?
- The cost is €2.80 for a single journey or €1.50 if purchased on board.
- What are the parking fees in Alghero?
- There are designated parking stalls (blu) with a fee of €0.50 per hour near the historic center.
- Can I use public transport to get around Alghero itself?
- No, only regional trains run through Alghero’s central station operated by Trenitalia.
- What are the parking options for outlying areas in Alghero?
- Other nearby parking areas include Piazzale della Pace and Via XX Settembre.
Alghero Events
If you’re visiting Alghero during a specific time of year, be sure to check out local events:
- Carnevale: A vibrant carnival celebration that takes place in January or February.
- Festa di San Marco: A traditional festival honoring the patron saint of Alghero, celebrated in September.
- Alghero Jazz Festival: An annual music event featuring international jazz musicians.
Alghero Cuisine
Sardinian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and use of local ingredients. Some popular dishes to try during your visit include:
- Fregula: A Sardinian pasta dish made from small, chewy strands.
- Cassu marzu: A traditional cheese that’s purposely infested with live maggots.
- Seada: Fried dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Alghero is a charming and vibrant town that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and delicious local cuisine, it’s easy to fall in love with this hidden gem of Sardinia.
