Santa Teresa Gallura

Santa  Teresa  Gallura​

⭐ Ranked #70 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
Latest page update: 2 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​Situated close to the northern tip of Sardinia, the seaside town of Santa Teresa Gallura offers a variety of delights to its visitors. 

In practical terms, it's the most convenient place for crossings to and from the island of Corsica which is just 11 kilometres away and a 50 minute ferry journey. 

However, once you arrive in Santa Teresa Gallura you might just want to stay put and enjoy the many charms it presents, such as its beautiful beaches, great restaurants and shopping areas.

What People Ask About Santa Teresa Gallura

Where is Santa Teresa Gallura located?
Santa Teresa Gallura is located on the northern tip of Sardinia, overlooking the Strait of Bonifacio. It’s the closest point in Sardinia to Corsica and serves as a ferry port to Bonifacio on the French island.
What is the main beach in Santa Teresa Gallura?
The main beach is Rena Bianca, a short walk from the town centre. It has soft white sand and clear shallow water, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, especially with families.
Can you take a ferry to Corsica from Santa Teresa Gallura?
Yes, there are regular ferry services from Santa Teresa Gallura to Bonifacio in Corsica. The journey takes around one hour and is one of the shortest sea crossings between Italy and France.
What else is there to do in Santa Teresa Gallura?
You can visit the Torre di Longonsardo for views over the coast, explore Capo Testa with its rock formations and coves, or take boat tours to the Maddalena Archipelago. The town also has a small historic centre with restaurants and cafés.
How do you get to Santa Teresa Gallura from Olbia?
Santa Teresa Gallura is about 65 km north of Olbia. It can be reached by car in around 1 hour via the SS133 and SS125 roads. There are also seasonal bus connections from Olbia and other nearby towns in summer.
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Overview

Overview
A town fit for royalty
Santa Teresa is a relatively new town; established in 1808 by King Vittorio Emanuele I who named it after his queen, Maria Teresa. Vestiges of the past are few but there is a 16th century Spanish watchtower called Torre Spagnola which is one of the best vantage points for photos of the town. 

Without a doubt, the highlight of Santa Teresa Gallura is its stunning beach: Rena Bianca. The powder puff white sands and crystalline waters make this one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Even if you don't want to swim, you can get much enjoyment from walking around the headland of Punta Falcone to admire the views. ​

Things to Do

Things to Do
A bright, colourful town
The town itself is made up of brightly-coloured buildings and dominated by the main square: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele I. Some of Sardinia's best restaurants can be found in Santa Teresa Gallura with fresh fish the obvious speciality. The town comes alive in the summer evenings with some of the most vibrant nightlife in Sardinia and there are also some great shopping options available. 

​Ferries arrive and depart from the town's port which is situated a short distance away from the centre. Apart from the ferries to and from Corsica, there are several boat tours available across to the La Maddalena Archipelago or slightly further afield to the Costa Smeralda. ​
Holiday base
Santa Teresa Gallura is a popular base for a holiday; not only because of the features mentioned above, but also because there's plenty to see within a very short distance. If we consider that Rena Bianca Beach is one of the most beautiful in Italy, then it follows that during the summer months it becomes extremely popular.

​However, just five kilometres away from the town you'll find the rocky promontory of Capo Testa. The beaches here such as Zia Culumba and Valle della Luna are much quieter than Rena Bianca but share that same thread of crystal clear water and soft sand. You can happily spend a whole day hiking around Capo Testa, exploring its unusual rock formations and hidden bays where you can access that beautiful water. 
Tours & Activities
Comune di Santa Teresa Gallura
Province: Sassari

Region: Sardinia

Population: 5,044 (in 2024 - source)
​
​Size: 101 km²

​Highlights: Rena Bianca Beach, Torre Spagnola, shops

​​​​​​​​Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025

Close by: La Maddalena Archipelago, Tavolara, Olbia, Sassari

Where to Stay

Where to Stay
  • Hotel La Coluccia Located just a short distance from the beach, this luxury hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning sea views, a large outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving local Sardinian cuisine. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting, the beautiful views, and the proximity to the beaches and nature reserves. €€€ (high-end)
  • B&B Il Mare di La Maddalena Situated close to the town centre, this charming bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Visitors enjoy the central location, the friendly service, and the easy access to Santa Teresa Gallura’s main attractions and beaches. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Capo Testa Set near the Capo Testa peninsula, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving Sardinian dishes, and a beautiful outdoor terrace. Guests value the quiet location, the excellent service, and the proximity to the natural beauty of the area, including the beach. €€ (mid-range)
  • Residence La Funtana A collection of self-catering apartments located a short distance from the beach, featuring kitchenettes, private balconies, and air conditioning. Guests enjoy the flexibility of apartment living, the outdoor pool, and the close proximity to local shops and the seafront. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Mistral Located a short walk from the town centre and the beach, this well-rated hotel offers comfortable rooms with a garden, a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and a bar. Guests enjoy the good value for money, the relaxing atmosphere, and the central location close to Santa Teresa Gallura's attractions. €€ (mid-range)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat
  • Millo Ristorante: Located on Via Garibaldi, Millo Ristorante offers traditional Sardinian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. The menu features dishes like squid with orange and chicory sauce. The charming summer terrace provides a pleasant spot to enjoy your meal while observing the town's lively atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Marinaro: Situated near the seafront, Ristorante Marinaro is known for its excellent fish dishes, such as paccheri pasta with red prawns and licorice, salmon tartare, and tuna with Tropea’s famous red onions. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria La Lucciola: For a casual dining experience, Pizzeria La Lucciola offers a variety of pizzas by the slice, including options with courgette, aubergine, sausage, and salami toppings. Each slice is reasonably priced, making it a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Price guide: € (Budget)
  • Central Bar 80: Located on the main square, Central Bar 80 is an ideal spot to start your day. They serve a variety of pastries, including the "cornetto con crema" and "cornetto con marmellata," perfect for breakfast alongside a cappuccino. Price guide: € (Budget)
  • Horizon Alchimie di Gusto: Offering a fusion of Sardinian and international flavours, Horizon presents dishes like sushi, poké bowls, and bao buns. The "medium box" of 48 sushi pieces is a popular choice, featuring fresh sashimi and creamy salmon uramaki. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)

Photo Gallery

Nearby Places

Nearby Places
  • Capo Testa (approx. 5 km north of Santa Teresa Gallura): A striking promontory known for its dramatic granite formations and clear waters, Capo Testa is a popular spot for hiking and beachgoers. The Roccia dell'Orso (Bear Rock) offers panoramic views of the coast, and the nearby Cala Grande beach is perfect for swimming.
  • Palau (approx. 30 km south of Santa Teresa Gallura): A small town with a beautiful marina and views of the La Maddalena Archipelago. Key attractions include the Punta Sardegna Fortress and boat trips to the islands, offering visitors the chance to explore hidden beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • La Maddalena (approx. 45 km south of Santa Teresa Gallura): The largest island in the La Maddalena Archipelago, La Maddalena is known for its pristine beaches, such as Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio, and the charming town centre with narrow streets and cafes. The Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena offers stunning nature reserves and hiking trails.
  • Isola dei Gabbiani (approx. 15 km southeast of Santa Teresa Gallura): Known for its clear waters and sandy beaches, Isola dei Gabbiani is popular for water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. The island offers great opportunities for exploring the coast by boat or on foot, with beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Aggius (approx. 25 km west of Santa Teresa Gallura): A picturesque village nestled in the hills, Aggius is famous for its traditional stone houses and the Museo etnografico showcasing local history and culture. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Parco Nazionale dell'Asinara, and offers scenic hiking opportunities.
Sardinia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sardinia

1. ​Bosa
2. La Maddalena Archipelago
3. ​Alghero
4. Su Nuraxi di Barumini
5. ​​Santa Teresa Gallura
6. Asinara
7. ​Gulf of Orosei
8. La Pelosa Beach
9. ​Gennargentu National Park
10. ​Tavolara

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sardinia

Getting There

Getting There
By Rail: Santa Teresa Gallura does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Olbia, approximately 60 km southeast of the town. From Olbia, you can take a bus or taxi to Santa Teresa Gallura, with the journey taking around 1 hour.

By Road: Santa Teresa Gallura is approximately 60 km northwest of Olbia, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS133bis road. From Olbia, take the SS133bis northwestbound, following signs to Santa Teresa Gallura.

Nearest International Airport:
​
  • Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Aeroporto di Olbia-Costa Smeralda): Located about 60 km southeast of Santa Teresa Gallura, the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS133bis road. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a bus to Santa Teresa Gallura.

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