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La Maddalena Archipelago
Tickets: book ahead or walk in?
The archipelago's beaches and coves are public and free, though boat transport is paid separately.
Timed entry
No
Typical price
Free
Busiest
July and August, weekends
Quietest time
May, June, September
Best time to visit
Visit between May and September for warm swimming conditions; June and September offer the best balance of hot weather and smaller crowds. Arrive early morning (before 9am) to secure boat tours and find parking at Palau's departure points.
Budget tips
National park access is free, but boat tours cost 30-70 EUR per person depending on route and duration. Save money by booking a shared group tour rather than a private boat, or pack a picnic to avoid pricey island cafe markups.
Plan your visit
Full day
About
Quick facts: Seven main islands and dozens of smaller islets form this protected national park in the Mediterranean. Its turquoise waters and pink granite rock formations draw over 500,000 visitors annually to explore by boat and on foot.
Highlights: The archipelago's pink granite shores shift through a dozen shades of rose and amber as the sun moves across the sky throughout the day. Napoleon Bonaparte's family actually sheltered here after fleeing Corsica in 1793, hiding among these very coves and beaches.
Practical info
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