La Maddalena in a Day: The Perfect Itinerary from Palau
Only have one day to visit La Maddalena and Caprera? Here's the hour-by-hour itinerary we recommend to our guests: ferry, top beaches, typical lunch, Garibaldi, and sunset on your return.
Morning (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Ferry and First Beaches
8:00 AM — Breakfast in your apartment and walk to the port of Palau (5-10 min).
8:30 AM — Board the Palau-La Maddalena ferry (15-minute crossing, ~15 € return for pedestrians).
9:00 AM — Arrive in La Maddalena. Rent a scooter or car near the port (15-30 €/day) or take a local bus.
9:30 AM — Head towards Caprera: cross Ponte della Moneta and reach Spiaggia del Relitto (10 min). Swim and sunbathe until 12:00 PM.
Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
For lunch, head back towards the center of La Maddalena and stop at one of the port restaurants: sea urchin spaghetti, fregola with clams, grilled fish. Budget: 25-40 €/person.
Afternoon (2:30 PM – 6:00 PM): Garibaldi and Bassa Trinita
2:30 PM — Visit the Garibaldi Compendium on Caprera (40 min, 7 €). The General's house, tomb, and relics.
3:30 PM — Bassa Trinita beach on La Maddalena island: shallow water, light sand, ideal for the afternoon. Swim until 5:30 PM.
Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Aperitif and Return
6:00 PM — Return to La Maddalena port, return vehicles, enjoy a sunset aperitif in Piazza Umberto I.
8:00 PM — Convenient last ferry back to Palau, dinner in Palau's historic center.
'Boat Only' Alternative
If you prefer not to drive, book a full-day boat trip from Palau (50-80 €) which includes 4-5 swimming stops in the most beautiful coves of the archipelago, lunch on board, and a stop to see Spiaggia Rosa. Departure 9:00 AM, return 5:30 PM.
FAQ
Is it better to visit La Maddalena by car or on foot?
For a single day, a scooter or car is the best choice: it allows you to see La Maddalena + Caprera in just a few hours. If you only stay on the main island, walking + bus is sufficient.
Do I need to book Cala Coticcio?
Yes, always. Since 2022, access is limited, and you need to book on the official website of the National Park (parcoarcipelago.it), even 1-2 weeks in advance during high season.
Planning a holiday in Palau?
Discover our apartments in the heart of Palau — 5 minutes from the harbour.