Santa  Teresa  Gallura​

⭐ Ranked #70 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
Latest page update: 4 September 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Santa Teresa Gallura
Santa Teresa Gallura offers a well-reviewed selection of established hotels, supported by its beaches, granite coastline and ferry links to Corsica. The best options focus on comfort, sea access and convenient proximity to the historic centre, harbour and coves such as Rena Bianca.
​
Colonna Grand Hotel Capo Testa is the most prestigious choice in the area, appreciated for its panoramic setting, extensive facilities, beach access and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€€). Hotel La Funtana, close to the town centre, provides a welcoming alternative with a pool, comfortable rooms and easy access to shops, restaurants and the harbour (€€€). For those seeking a peaceful base near the sea, Villa Gandamar offers a relaxed environment, friendly hospitality and a convenient location for exploring the nearby beaches and coastline (€€).

Where is

Where is Santa Teresa Gallura?
​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.
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

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.
Related links

Discover

Discover Santa Teresa Gallura
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. ​
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. 

Things to Do

Things to Do in Santa Teresa Gallura
  • Torre di Longonsardo is a 16th-century coastal watchtower built by the Spanish to defend the Strait of Bonifacio. It stands on a promontory overlooking the sea and offers panoramic views across to Corsica. The tower has a circular base and thick stone walls. Visitors can walk around the site and explore its history through information panels.
  • Spiaggia Rena Bianca is the town’s main beach, located just a short walk from the centre. Known for its fine white sand and shallow turquoise waters, it is ideal for swimming and popular with families. The beach is equipped with facilities during the summer season. From here, there are clear views of the cliffs and Corsican coastline.
  • Centro Storico di Santa Teresa includes a network of streets laid out in a grid plan during the early 19th century. The main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele I, is lined with cafés and shops, and hosts markets and concerts during the summer. The area features pastel-coloured buildings and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s the hub of local activity and evening strolls.
  • Porto Turistico is the town’s harbour, which serves both pleasure boats and ferries to Bonifacio in Corsica. The port area includes a promenade with restaurants and bars overlooking the water. Boat tours also depart from here to explore the nearby Maddalena Archipelago. It’s a convenient spot for both travel and leisure.
  • Capo Testa is a rugged headland west of the town, known for its granite rock formations and small coves. The area was once a Roman granite quarry and now offers hiking paths with views over the strait. Attractions include the old lighthouse and the Valle della Luna. It’s popular for walking, swimming and sunset viewing.

Tours and Activities

Santa Teresa Gallura Tours and Activities

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Santa Teresa Gallura
  • 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

Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Santa Teresa Gallura
  • 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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Santa Teresa Gallura
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.

Private Transfers

Santa Teresa Gallura Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a straightforward way to reach Santa Teresa Gallura or continue your journey to other parts of northern Sardinia. You’ll be collected from your selected address and driven directly by a professional local driver—no need to hire a car or arrange multiple connections.

The drive from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport to Santa Teresa Gallura takes around 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 65 kilometres), making it the most convenient airport for arrivals and departures. Transfers from Alghero Fertilia Airport take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (around 140 kilometres), while Cagliari Elmas Airport is much further away, with a journey time of around 4 hours (approx. 300 kilometres). For ferry travellers, transfers from Palau (approx. 25 kilometres) or Porto Torres (approx. 100 kilometres) are also available.
​
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.
To book one of our private transfers you can contact us via the [email protected] mailbox or use the Whatsapp button above for live chat and general advice about your upcoming trip to Italy. 

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone. 
Chat with us on WhatsApp
↑ Back to Top