Things To Do
in Arzachena
Arzachena is a gateway to Sardinia's Costa Smeralda, tucked between rugged hills and a string of emerald beaches. The town blends ancient Nuragic sites with modern shops, restaurants, and easy access to the iconic coastline. Surrounded by pine forests and granite promontories, it offers a relaxed pace for both nature lovers and culture seekers.
From crystal clear coves to upscale boutiques, Arzachena serves as a versatile base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Olbia Airport and take a scenic drive through cork oak forests to your hotel in Arzachena. Unpack and unwind on your private terrace while enjoying panoramic views of the Gallura hills. Chat with the friendly staff to gather insider tips for the week ahead.
Stroll through Arzachena’s historic center, admiring its granite-paved alleys and colorful balconies. Slide into a local café to savor a creamy cappuccino paired with fresh pastries. Explore small artisan shops for handcrafted textiles and ceramics as the sunlight dances on limestone facades.
Dine at a family-run trattoria serving homemade fregola with seafood in a rustic courtyard. Sip on a glass of Vermentino di Gallura under a cerulean sky as lanterns flicker overhead. End the night with an evening passeggiata through the lively piazza, soaking in the warm Mediterranean breeze.
Head northeast to La Celvia Beach for soft white sand and crystalline turquoise water. Set up your umbrella and dive into a refreshing morning swim as seagulls wheel overhead. Fortune around is lush Mediterranean scrub, perfumed with rosemary and myrtle.
Move on to Spiaggia del Principe, reputedly a favorite of Prince Aga Khan, and lunch at a beachside chiringuito. Indulge in freshly caught grilled prawns and sun-ripened tomatoes drizzled with local olive oil. Lounging on a sunbed, take in the dramatic granite coastline carved by ancient glaciers.
Return to Arzachena for an aperitivo of cold cuts and pecorino cheese on a rooftop terrace. Watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of coral and violet. Wander to a nearby enoteca for a nightcap and sample aromatic Vermentino blanco.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀Local cheese plate | $8-15 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline and beaches
- High quality dining and boutique shopping
- Easy access to nature and boat trips
- Crowded and expensive in peak season
- Limited public transport outside towns
- Some services close in the off season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Arzachena
Visit one of these nice places.
Yacht-filled harbor with pastel architecture and striking sunsets over the water.
Sea stacks and pine-covered cliffs along the coast, perfect for dramatic silhouettes at golden hour.
Two coves with turquoise water framed by pines, ideal for reflections and long exposure shots.
Winding shoreline from Cala di Volpe to Porto Cervo offering panoramic sea views and granite outcrops.
Food in Arzachena
Arzachena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted suckling pig seasoned with herbs, a Sardinian classic often found in local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Gnocchi-shaped semolina pasta usually served with sausage ragù and pecorino.
Stuffed pasta purses filled with potatoes, pecorino, and mint, drizzled with olive oil.
Honey-soaked fried pastry filled with cheese, a sweet and savory dessert.
Thin, crispy flatbread often served as a side or used to accompany cheeses and olives.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, cured meats, and regional specialties.
Casual spots along beaches and promenades offering grilled seafood, arancine, and light snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with Buongiorno or Ciao; use polite forms for strangers and elders.
Casual attire is fine at beaches; modest dress is appreciated when visiting churches or more formal venues.
Italian is the official language; many residents and staff in tourist areas speak English, with some Sardinian dialects spoken locally.
Safety
Tipping in Arzachena
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is common when service is good.
Credit cards are widely accepted in towns and larger establishments; cash is handy for markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and sunny with long days; beaches can be crowded and prices higher. Book boat trips and restaurants in advance; carry sunscreen and water.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; great for hiking, cycling, and town strolls with fewer crowds.
Warm sea, mild air, and fewer tourists; ideal for sailing and exploring the coast with less congestion.
Mild but cooler with occasional rain; many tourist services operate on a reduced schedule but the countryside is peaceful.
Arzachena at Night
Hiking in Arzachena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with sea stacks and panoramic views of the archipelago.
Forested mountains offering sweeping views of northern Sardinia.
Varied hiking routes along the coastline with sea vistas and rocky promontories.
Airports
How to reach Arzachena by plane.
Main international gateway to the Costa Smeralda, about 25-40 km from Arzachena with frequent connections to major European cities.
Western Sardinia gateway, roughly 200 km by road, useful for visiting northern Sardinia.
Southern Sardinia hub; longer transfer but serves many domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for safe beaches, family-friendly activities, and relaxed pace.
Costa Smeralda attracts travelers seeking high-end dining, shopping, and resort experiences.
A mix of Italian and European visitors throughout the year.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A classic Sardinian pastime with charter boats and regattas around the coast.
Clear waters with diverse marine life along coastal reefs.
Casual sports on the beaches and in calm bays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arzachena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian; look for pasta with pomodoro or pure vegetable dishes, and ask for cheese and olive oil inspired plates.