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Between boat trips and visits to the historical centre, there are many things to do in La Maddalena, the largest island of the archipelago. 

Famed for its fascinating history and its stunning beaches, La Maddalena is a favourite tourist destination. If you’re planning a visit, this post offers 5 things to do in La Maddalena to help you make the most of your holiday.

1. Boat excursions

La Maddalena is part of an archipelago of 60 islands and islets rich in beaches and stunning views that can only be discovered by sea. 

Choosing a boat excursion allows you to enjoy a more complete experience and dive into the crystal-clear waters of some of La Maddalena’s best-known beaches. 

In addition to La Maddalena, we will take you to visit the islands of Spargi and Budelli: our passenger boat Lady Luna 3 will make several stops at the most secluded and charming coves, such as Cala Corsara and the Pink Beach.

2. Visiting the old town

Among the things to do in La Maddalena, exploring its old town centre is not to be missed. 

Of the islands of the archipelago, La Maddalena is the only inhabited one, together with Caprera. Its old town has streets full of shops and restaurants, such as Via Garibaldi, while the square of the same name is a meeting point for the island’s people. 

Interesting historical monuments include the Garibaldi Column, dedicated to the hero of Italy’s unification, Giuseppe Garibaldi, located next to the marina, and the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena. 

On the last stop of our boat excursion, you will have one hour to wander through the old town and soak in its atmosphere.

 3. Visiting the marina of Cala Gavetta

Together with the old town centre, another fascinating sight is the port of Cala Gavetta, with the many fishing boats side by side with luxury yachts. 

From the marina, you will see the many historical buildings along the waterfront; you can take a stroll in the area or stop at one of the many restaurants to enjoy some local dishes.

4. The beaches of the island of La Maddalena

In addition to the coves that can be reached by boat, there are equally fascinating beaches on La Maddalena that can be reached on foot or by car. 

One of the best-known is the beach of Cala Spalmatore, of medium size and with a beach kiosk. As it is sheltered from the Mistral wind, its waters are mostly calm, and many boats come to lie at anchor here. 

Travelling along the island’s coast towards Punta Tegge in the south, you will find Cala Francese, a charming small beach bordered by granite rocks and with crystal-clear shallow waters. 

In the northern part of the island is the beach of Monti D’Arena, named after its mound of fine sand surrounded by thick vegetation. The beach is easily accessible by car along the scenic road.

5. Visit to Garibaldi’s House

Among the things to do in La Maddalena, don’t miss a visit to Giuseppe Garibaldi’s house. 
You will find it on the island of Caprera, which you can reach by boat or by car, thanks to a 600 m-long bridge connecting Caprera to La Maddalena. 

On the island is the Compendio Garibaldino, a museum complex in the place where Giuseppe Garibaldi spent the last years of his life. You will find a white building that was the general’s home and a courtyard, in the centre of which stands a tree that Garibaldi planted in honour of his daughter Clelia. From the courtyard, a path leads to the small family cemetery.


In short, the island of La Maddalena offers many different experiences depending on how you prefer to spend your holiday on the island. But if you wish to explore farther afield and discover the charms of the other islands in the archipelago, board our Lady Luna 3: just book from our website.