When one thinks of the La Maddalena Archipelago, one's mind immediately runs to white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. But the inhabited island offers so much more. This guide answers the question “what to do in La Maddalena”.” when you want to discover the village, history, museums, trails and local cuisine.
If you are looking for what to do in La Maddalena in two or three days, you are in the right place. Perfect for mistral days or for those who like to travel in a complete and authentic way.
1. Strolling in the historic centre
The historic centre of La Maddalena is a small jewel of popular architecture. Its cobbled streets tell a story of fishermen and sailors. It is one of the first answers to the question “what to do in La Maddalena” just off the ferry.
What to see:
Via Garibaldi, the main street
Piazza Umberto I, the heart of the city
Pilots' houses with pastel-coloured facades
Recommended time: 1-2 hours.
2. Cala Gavetta: the heart of the village
Cala Gavetta is the small historic port. Bars, restaurants and ice-cream parlours line the quay. It is another landmark of what to do in La Maddalena both during the day and in the evening.
What to do:
Aperitif with a view of boats
Homemade granita in the square
Photos of colourful fishermen's boats
Curiosity: Cala Gavetta is also the starting point of many boat excursions.
3. Visit the Church of St Mary Magdalene
Built between 1779 and 1784, it is the island's main church, dedicated to the patron saint. Placing a visit here is a way of responding to “what to do in La Maddalena” for those who love sacred art.
Hours: 8 a.m.-12 noon and 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Free admission. Time: 20-30 minutes.
4. The Garibaldi Compendium at Caprera
The island of Caprera is connected to La Maddalena by a bridge. The house where Giuseppe Garibaldi lived is located here. It is an unmissable stop to understand what to do in La Maddalena from a historical point of view.
What to see:
The White House, Garibaldi's residence
The Hero's grave (with “I obey” written on it)
The Garibaldi Museum with relics and weapons
Hours: summer 9am-7pm, winter 9am-5pm. Closed Mondays. Ticket: 8 euro.
Time: 2-3 hours.
5. Fort Arbuticci: the multimedia memorial
Inaugurated in 2022, it is an interactive and immersive itinerary dedicated to Garibaldi. If you are wondering “what to do in La Maddalena” with children or in an engaging way, this is the answer.
Duration: 45-60 minutes. Included in the Compendi ticket.
6. The Nino Lamboglia Museum and Underwater Archaeology
The museum exhibits finds from the Roman wreck of Spargi. Amphorae, coins and ceramics tell the marine history of the archipelago. For archaeology enthusiasts, it is a clear answer to “what to do in La Maddalena” indoors.
Hours: June-September 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Ticket: 5 euro.
Time: 1 hour.
7. Discovering the wilderness of Caprera
Caprera offers trails amidst Mediterranean scrub and breathtaking views. Among the activities “what to do in La Maddalena” for trekking lovers, this is the most authentic.
Recommended trails:
Cala Coticcio (Tahiti) - 2 km, permit required
Cala Napoletana - easier
Caprera Ring - 8 km panoramic
Punta Rossa - 360° view
What to bring: hiking shoes, water (1.5 litres), hat.
8. Tasting traditional dishes
Magdalenian cuisine is a mix of Sardinian and seafood flavours. Here is what to do in La Maddalena for the palate.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Gallura soup | Carasau bread, cheese, broth |
| Myrtle risotto | With shellfish and myrtle liqueur |
| Fresh fish | Sea bream, sea bass, snapper |
| Seadas | Fried cake with honey |
Where to eat: trattorias in the centre (15-20 euro) or restaurants on the harbour (30-40 euro).
9. Renting a bicycle or scooter
Exploring the island on two wheels is the best way to see inaccessible beaches and views. Another way of responding to “what to do in La Maddalena” autonomously.
Costs:
Bikes: 10-15 euro/day
E-bike: 20-30 euro/day
Scooter: 40-60 euro/day
Recommended route: La Maddalena - Punta Tegge (8 km a/r).
10. Admiring the sunset from the Punta Tegge Belvedere
Punta Tegge is the most spectacular spot for sunset, with views of Spargi, Budelli and Razzoli. If you are looking for a romantic or photographic moment, here is what to do in La Maddalena in the late afternoon.
How to get there: 8 km from the centre, then 300 metres on foot. Bring sweatshirt and torch.
11. The boat trip with Petagus
If you only have one day or want to complete the experience on land, the boat trip with Petagus is the answer to “what to do in La Maddalena” to see the sea of the archipelago.
Why Petagus:
Departure from Palau (connected to La Maddalena by ferry in 20 minutes)
7-hour itinerary: Spargi (Cala Corsara with disembarkation), Budelli (sighting Pink Beach), Piscine Naturali (diving stop), Santa Maria (Cala Santa Maria with disembarkation)
Free cancellation within 24 hours
Daily departures at 10:30
Prices: adults from 50€, children from 30€
How to match:
1 day: boat trip or land only
2 days: day 1 Petagus excursion, day 2 culture and nature
3 days: add trekking to Caprera
12. How to organise the ideal day
2-day itinerary (sea + culture):
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Boat trip with Petagus (7 hours) |
| 2 | Morning: Garibaldino Compendium and Fort Arbuticci. Afternoon: historic centre, Cala Gavetta, sunset at Punta Tegge. Dinner on the harbour. |
What to do in La Maddalena with 3 days: add trekking to Caprera and a half day at the Lamboglia Museum.
13. Frequently asked questions on what to do in La Maddalena
How many days does it take to see La Maddalena?
Minimum 2 days: one for the boat trip and one on land. With 3 days you see everything.
What to do in La Maddalena in a day?
You have to choose: either the boat trip (sea) or the village tour with Garibaldi (land). Both require a full day.
What to do in La Maddalena when it rains?
Nino Lamboglia Museum, Garibaldi Compendium (indoor), Fort Arbuticci, churches in the centre, lunch in a trattoria.
Is it better to stay in La Maddalena or Palau?
La Maddalena is more authentic and lively in the evenings. Palau is more convenient for a trip with Petagus (direct embarkation).
Does the trip with Petagus leave from La Maddalena?
No, it leaves from Palau. If you are staying in La Maddalena, take the ferry to Palau (20 minutes, every 20-30 minutes).
What is the best time to ask what to do in La Maddalena?
June and September: ideal climate, fewer crowds. July and August: beautiful but crowded.
Conclusion
Now you know what to do in La Maddalena both on land and at sea. Give a day to culture (borgo, Garibaldi, Caprera, sunsets) and a day to the sea with the Petagus boat trip (Spargi, Budelli, Piscine Naturali, Santa Maria).
Book your trip with Petagus and discover the archipelago from the sea side. Then give yourself at least one more day to explore all that the islands offer on land.