A walled town on the so-called Coral Riviera, originally an Aragonese colony (the cathedral is Aragonese Gothic) and now developed for tourism. Ramparts overlook the harbour, there are good beaches along the corniche roads north and south and the town has cafés, seafood restaurants and a couple of expensive hotels.

The obligatory excursion is to Neptune’s Cave, an echoing vault in the headland of Capo Caccia with interior pools and limestone curiosities near sea level, deep within a headland. Visitable on foot (500 steps) but more impressive when entered by boat. Regular trips from quay opposite Bastione della Maddalena, a 25-km round trip.

Villa holidays: the Alghero area offers many holiday rental properties.