Alghero, little Barcelona in Sardinia

Italy is of course the most beautiful holiday country there is. But if you are ever still in doubt between a holiday in Italy or a holiday in Spain, consider a trip to Alghero.

This city in the northwest of Sardinia has classic Italian charm, but with Catalan influences. The people of Alghero sometimes affectionately call the city 'little Barcelona'. My parents had a holiday home here for many years. I visited the city frequently in my teenage years, and I therefore know the streets like the back of my hand.

Alghero has everything you look for in an Italian holiday destination: culture, nature, and an abundance of delicious food. The destination is ideal for both young and old, for solo travelers, friends, couples and families.

Alghero has an airport, but unfortunately you can no longer fly directly there from the Netherlands. This is possible from various places in Germany or in Belgium from Brussels airport. If you want to take a plane from the Netherlands, you can fly to Olbia and from there travel to Alghero. 

A fascinating history

Alghero has a special history. Of course, the city did not just get the name Little Barcelona. From the 14th century the city was ruled by the Kingdom of Aragon. The population of Alghero reacted quite rebelliously to this domination, which resulted in them being deported. They were then replaced by Catalans.

The result? Catalan is still an official language in Alghero, the only place in Italy. The language is mainly spoken by the older population, but you can also see it on the street signs: here you can read both an Italian and a Catalan version.

Imposing city wall

An impressive city wall surrounds almost the entire historic center of Alghero. This also dates from the time of the kingdom of Aragon. The 22 meter high wall, also known as the bastions, is very suitable for a nice walk. You have a fantastic view of the sea, and you can sit on the terraces of countless restaurants and bars.

The city wall is still in very good condition and has no fewer than 8 towers. This allows you to get a good idea of ​​what life in Alghero was like in the Middle Ages. What really makes it complete, however, are the various historic cannons and catapults displayed on the wall. Like being in 'Game of Thrones' you have arrived!

Vibrant city life

With more than 42.000 inhabitants, Alghero is not a huge city, but it is full of life. Whether you visit in summer or winter, the streets of Alghero are almost never empty.

In addition to the city wall, the rest of the old center is also dotted with shops and picturesque restaurants. Although the Catalan influences are not dominant in the cuisine, they can be spotted by the observant tourist.

For example, on almost every menu there is a 'Crema Catalana' among the desserts, which looks a lot like a crème brûlée. You can also order paella in quite a few restaurants. But no need to worry if you are a big fan of Italian cuisine: the choice is also enormous. I share my favorites.

My first tip is Il Pavone, a fish restaurant with both traditional and innovative fish dishes, such as lasagna with squid and artichoke. The menu can change, because we always use seasonal products.

If you see sea urchin pasta on the menu, I highly recommend it! Nice detail: the owner of this restaurant speaks Dutch.

My second regular spot is Al Vecchio Mulino, a cozy trattoria. Here I especially like to eat pizza, my favorite being the Sarda, with Sardinian sausage. If you normally like to eat pizza salami, then you will also enjoy this. 

Caves of Neptune

You can also enjoy natural beauty in the area around Alghero. A special phenomenon are the caves of Neptune. From the harbor you can take a boat to these stalactite caves.

In the summer a boat departs every hour, in the other seasons there are slightly fewer. You can too book a tour immediately, with which you will be accompanied through the caves by a guide. If you are a real daredevil, the caves can also be reached independently on foot: via 654 steps along a steep rock.

Are you a real adventurer who also likes to take a dive? In the nearby Nereo Cave you can admire life beneath the water's surface. Here you can view impressive coral reefs for which Alghero is known.

If you wear jewelry regularly, be sure to bring something beautiful made of coral. There is a jeweler with a wide range on every street corner.

Nuraghe of Palmavera

If you have visited Sardinia before or even just read about it, then you have probably heard of nuraghe. These are buildings from the Bronze Age that you only find in Sardinia. They are therefore also seen as the symbol of the island.

In Alghero you can visit one of the most famous nuraghes: that of Palmavera. This is a so-called 'nuragic complex', consisting of several huts, which you can also look inside. A unique cultural experience!