The town of Arzachena is the closest large community to the world-famous Emerald Coast with its hallmark of luxury and "Caribbean" beaches, although it is over 4 km from the sea.

Historical monuments

Apart from the nearby beaches, however, Arzachena offers many historical sites, especially archaeological sites.

Some of the best ones include La Prisgiona, Li Muri, Li Lolghi or Tempio di Malchittu. The historical remains mostly date back to the period between the 4th and 1st millennium BC, de facto the Bronze Age.

You can find an overview of all the sites with descriptions on the city's website gesecoarzachena.it.

Admission to a single site is 4 eur, but there are discounted tickets for multiple sites or packages for all archaeological sites, with prices around 10 eur.

Beaches and swimming

The town lies about 4 km off the coast on the Costa Smeralda foreshore and close to the idyllic islands of La Maddalena. Swimming on beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean or the Seychelles is one of the best Sardinia has to offer.

Accommodation

Although Arzachena is not directly on the sea, it can be a good alternative to the overpriced resorts on the Emerald Coast. Although local hotel prices in high season range from 80 eur per night for 2 upwards, prices are half those of beachfront accommodation.

Transportation

The most convenient means of transport for exploring the archaeological sites in the area and the beaches on the coast is definitely a rental car. The distance from the airport in Olbia is 26 km and from Alghero 147 km.

Arzachena can also be reached by bus, with frequent services from these locations: