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Published on January 19, 2026

Northern Sardinia 5-Day Itinerary: Alghero, Castelsardo & La Maddalena

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through the captivating landscapes and historic towns of Northern Sardinia. This itinerary is designed to immerse you in the region's unique blend of Catalan heritage, medieval charm, and breathtaking island beauty, offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Get ready to discover the authentic heart of Sardinia's northern coast.

Why Northern Sardinia?

Northern Sardinia offers a diverse tapestry of experiences, from the fortified walls of Alghero with its vibrant old town to the dramatic cliffside setting of Castelsardo. Further east, the Maddalena Archipelago beckons with its unparalleled natural beauty and turquoise waters. It's a region where history, culture, and nature converge to create truly memorable moments.

Getting Around

For this itinerary, renting a car is highly recommended. It provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace, reach hidden beaches, and comfortably travel between destinations like Alghero,Castelsardo, and the ferry terminal for La Maddalena. While public transport exists, it can be less frequent and may limit your exploration.

Your 5-Day Northern Sardinia Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Alghero & Catalan Charm

Your adventure begins in Alghero, often called "Barceloneta" (Little Barcelona) due to its strong Catalan influence. Arrive at Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO), pick up your rental car, and head to your accommodation in or near Alghero.

Spend your afternoon exploring Alghero's historic center. Walk along the ancient ramparts, offering stunning views of the harbor and the Sardinian Sea. Get lost in the narrow, cobbled streets, discovering artisan shops, charming cafes, and impressive churches like the Cathedral of Santa Maria.

As evening approaches, find a spot along the bastions for an unforgettable sunset. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner, sampling traditional Sardinian seafood dishes, often with a Catalan twist.

Day 2: Alghero's Coast & Grotta di Nettuno

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast. You have a few options for your morning:

  • Relax on one of Alghero's city beaches, such as Spiaggia del Lido.
  • Explore the local market for fresh produce and Sardinian delicacies.
  • Take a deeper dive into Alghero's history with a visit to a local museum.

In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to the spectacular Grotta di Nettuno(Neptune's Grotto). You can reach it by boat from Alghero's harbor (a scenic ride) or by driving to Capo Caccia and descending the Escala del Cabirol, a dramatic staircase carved into the cliff face with 654 steps. Inside, marvel at the stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Tip:Check the weather and sea conditions before planning your visit to Grotta di Nettuno, as boat tours can be canceled in rough seas. If arriving by car, wear comfortable shoes for the staircase!

Return to Alghero for another evening of delicious food and a stroll along the vibrant waterfront.

Day 3: Coastal Charm: Castelsardo

Today, you'll drive north along the scenic coastal road to Castelsardo, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Alghero. This picturesque medieval village is perched dramatically on a rocky promontory overlooking the Gulf of Asinara.

Upon arrival, park your car and begin exploring the charming old town of Castelsardo. Wind your way through its steep, narrow alleys, passing colorful houses and artisan workshops. The highlight is the Doria Castle, which sits at the very top, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, the town itself, and on clear days, even Corsica.

Visit the Cathedral of Sant'Antonio Abate, with its distinctive bell tower. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with a view, savoring local seafood or traditional Sardinian pasta.Castelsardo is also known for its traditional basket weaving, so keep an eye out for unique souvenirs.

After a full day of exploration, you can choose to stay overnight in Castelsardo to enjoy its evening ambiance or drive further east towards Palau or La Maddalena for easier access to tomorrow's adventure.

Day 4: Island Paradise: La Maddalena Archipelago

Prepare for a day of unparalleled natural beauty in the Maddalena Archipelago. Drive to Palau (if you haven't already), the main ferry departure point for the islands. Take a short ferry ride (approximately 15-20 minutes) to La Maddalena island, the largest in the archipelago.

Once on La Maddalena, you have several options for exploring this protected national park:

  1. Boat Tour:The most popular way to experience the archipelago is by joining a full-day boat tour. These tours typically visit several islands, including Spargi, Budelli (famous for its Spiaggia Rosa, or Pink Beach, which can only be admired from afar), and Caprera, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
  2. Rent a dinghy:For the adventurous, rent a small inflatable boat (gommone) and explore at your own pace. No special license is required for smaller boats, but experience is recommended.
  3. Explore La Maddalena Island:Drive around La Maddalena island itself, stopping at beautiful beaches like Cala Spalmatore or Spiaggia di Bassa Trinita. Cross the bridge to Caprera island and visit Garibaldi's House Museum.

Whichever option you choose, you'll be mesmerized by the granite rock formations and the incredible shades of turquoise and emerald water. Enjoy a delightful seafood lunch on board your boat tour or at a restaurant in La Maddalena town.

Return to the mainland (Palau) in the late afternoon or stay overnight on La Maddalena island for a more immersive experience. Consider your onward travel plans for tomorrow when deciding where to stay.

Day 5: Departure or Relaxed Morning

Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a relaxed morning. If departing from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), you'll have a drive of approximately 45 minutes from Palau. If flying from Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO), allow around 2 hours and 30 minutes for the journey.

Use your last hours to revisit a favorite spot, enjoy a final Sardinian coffee, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Reflect on the beautiful memories made exploring the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Northern Sardinia.

Where to Stay

  • Alghero:Offers a wide range of hotels, B&Bs, and apartments within the old town or along the Lido for beach access. It's a great base for the first two nights.
  • Castelsardo:Limited but charming options, perfect for an authentic medieval village experience.
  • Palau/La Maddalena:Ideal for accessing the archipelago. Palau offers more options on the mainland, while La Maddalena island provides an authentic island stay.

Best Time to Visit

The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) are ideal for this itinerary. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner, and the sea is warm enough for swimming. July and August are peak season, with higher temperatures, more tourists, and increased prices.

Tips for Your Trip

  • Driving:Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially in old towns. Parking can be challenging in popular areas.
  • Book in Advance:Especially during peak season, book accommodations, rental cars, and popular boat tours ahead of time.
  • Sun Protection:Sardinia gets plenty of sunshine. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
  • Local Cuisine:Don't miss out on local specialties like Alghero's Catalan lobster, bottarga, mirto liqueur, and of course, Sardinian pecorino cheese.
  • Language:Italian is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Italian phrases will enhance your experience.

This 5-day itinerary offers a taste of Northern Sardinia's most iconic destinations, promising a journey filled with history, stunning natural beauty, and unforgettable Sardinian charm.