30/09/2015
Alghero Airport, also known as Alghero-Fertilia Airport or Alghero Riviera del Corallo Airport, serves as a vital gateway to the enchanting island of Sardinia. Situated approximately 8 km northwest of the picturesque seaside town of Alghero, this airport is one of three key entry points to the popular Italian region, renowned for its stunning beaches and abundant sunshine. While not one of Italy's largest airports, it efficiently handles over 1.5 million passengers annually and boasts a modern terminal with a variety of transport options. For travellers seeking cost-effective and convenient travel, the bus services operating from Alghero Airport are an excellent choice, offering extensive routes to numerous destinations across Sardinia.
The single terminal at Alghero Airport is designed for ease of navigation, with arrivals clearly separated from departures. Within the terminal, passengers will find all the necessary facilities to prepare for their onward journey. Bus travel is the predominant mode of transport for many visitors and locals in Sardinia, thanks to an extensive network connecting all major cities. Compared to taxi services, buses offer significant savings, making them a preferred option for many arriving at Alghero.
ARST Buslines: Connecting Sardinia
The primary operator of bus services from Alghero Airport is ARST Buslines (Azienda Regionale Sarda Trasporti). ARST manages a comprehensive network of routes across the entire island. Detailed information on their main routes can be found on their official website, http://arst.sardegna.it. For immediate assistance, passengers can visit the information desk located within the terminal building.
Tickets for ARST services can be purchased through several convenient channels: online via the ARST website, from ticket machines conveniently located at the airport, or directly from the bus drivers. It is worth noting that purchasing tickets on the bus incurs a slightly higher cost.
Ticket Options Explained
ARST offers a variety of ticket types to suit different travel needs:
- Single Tickets: Valid for one journey.
- Return Tickets: Allows for a return trip to the airport, valid for up to seven days from the initial journey.
- Carnet 10 Racing Tickets: A cost-effective option for 10 multi-way trips, offering savings compared to purchasing ten individual single tickets. These tickets do not have time restrictions.
- Carnet 12 Racing Tickets: Similar to the Carnet 10, but for twelve multi-way trips.
- Ports and Airport Special Ticket: Designed for travel to other Sardinian airports, such as Cagliari-Elmas Airport.
For the safety and validity of tickets, all tickets must be stamped by the driver once on board the bus. A special provision allows small children under one meter in height to travel for free.
The Tourist Ticket: Ideal for Visitors
Specifically catering to non-resident visitors, the ARST Tourist Ticket offers unlimited travel on all scheduled ARST services. This ticket is available for durations of seven, fourteen, or twenty-eight days and is valid from the beginning of June to the end of September. The ticket must be stamped on the day of issue to become valid.
Modern Fleet and Accessibility
The ARST Bus Company operates a modern fleet of air-conditioned vehicles, with bus sizes tailored to the length of the journey. A significant focus on accessibility means their buses are wheelchair friendly, equipped with mechanical ramps and specially designed double seats to accommodate wheelchair users comfortably.
Beyond ARST: Other Bus Operators
In addition to ARST, several other bus companies provide services from Alghero Airport, enhancing the travel options for passengers:
- Deplanu Buslines
- Redentours: Offers comfortable coach services, including routes to Nuoro (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes journey time). Their coaches are equipped with air conditioning, satellite navigation, coffee makers, refrigerators, and toilet facilities. Redentours also handles airport and seaport transfers, as well as package tours. More information is available at http://www.redentours.com.
- Logudoro Tours: Operates routes including the airport of Alghero to Cagliari Airport. Their website is http://www.logudorotours.it. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus.
- Digitur Buslines
- Fara Viaggi: Provides regular services between Alghero and the airport, and also serves locations such as Sassari, Macomer, and Ardauli. They are particularly active during the summer, offering transport to campsites and beaches in the Alghero area.
- Nuragica Tours Buslines
- Turmo Travel: Offers a variety of routes from the airport.
- Autolinee Pani
It's important to note that the ARST Bus Company has also taken over routes previously operated by Ferrovie della Sardegna (FDS), which managed the Sardinian railway services. Details for FDS can be found at http://www.ferroviesardegna.it.
Departure Point in Alghero Town
For those travelling from the town of Alghero, most bus services depart from Via Catalogna. This location is situated on the north side of the Giardini Pubblici (a large public park) and is conveniently close to the port and the historic old town. Tickets for ARST and FDS services can be purchased at a dedicated booth at this bus station. A tourist office, providing comprehensive information on all arrival and departure schedules for bus and train services in Alghero, is also located nearby.
A crucial piece of information for travellers is that public transport services in Sardinia, including buses, generally do not operate on Sundays or public holidays. Planning your journeys accordingly is highly recommended.
Information Point at the Airport
Should you require up-to-date information on the current schedules and operational status of bus services departing from Alghero Airport, an information point is readily available in the arrivals area of the terminal building. This point serves as a central resource for all your public transport queries.
In summary, Alghero Airport offers a robust and affordable bus network, making it easy for travellers to reach their destinations across Sardinia. Whether you opt for the extensive services of ARST or the specialized routes of other operators, bus travel presents a practical and economical way to experience the beauty of the Coral Riviera and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there a direct bus from Alghero Airport to the town centre?
Yes, ARST Buslines and Fara Viaggi provide regular services connecting Alghero Airport directly to the town of Alghero.
Q2: Where do I buy bus tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online, from ticket machines at the airport, or directly from the bus driver. Buying on the bus may be slightly more expensive.
Q3: Can I use my bus ticket to travel to other airports in Sardinia?
Yes, the "Ports and Airport Special Ticket" from ARST allows travel to other Sardinian airports, such as Cagliari-Elmas Airport.
Q4: Are the buses accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, ARST buses are wheelchair friendly, featuring mechanical ramps and dedicated space for wheelchairs.
Q5: Do buses run on Sundays?
Generally, public transport services in Sardinia, including buses, do not operate on Sundays or public holidays.
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