Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy is one of Europe’s most exclusive coastal destinations. Located on the stunning Costa Smeralda, it combines pristine beaches, luxury resorts, world-class marinas, and unforgettable events. Whether you’re after a romantic escape or elite lifestyle experiences, Porto Cervo offers beauty and indulgence in every direction.
A Glamorous Destination with a Unique Heritage
Built in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Porto Cervo was designed as a luxurious Mediterranean retreat. Today, it remains one of Italy’s top upscale travel spots. With elegant villas, stylish promenades, and designer boutiques, it’s a place where luxury and nature blend seamlessly.
How to Get to Porto Cervo
Reaching Porto Cervo is easy, especially in summer.
By Air: Fly into Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), just 30–40 minutes away by car. Direct flights connect Olbia with major European cities like London, Munich, and Paris.
By Ferry: Arrive via the Livorno–Olbia ferry route, which runs year-round.
By Car: Renting a car offers the most flexibility. The scenic drive from Olbia takes under an hour.
By Transfer or Bus: Shuttles and private transfers are available. In summer, buses link Porto Cervo with towns like Baja Sardinia and beaches such as Capriccioli.
Best Time to Visit Porto Cervo
The prime season runs from June to September. Expect sunny days, warm sea temperatures, and a lively atmosphere.
May and October offer quieter conditions—ideal for relaxed getaways.
Top Things to Do in Porto Cervo
There’s more to Porto Cervo than just beaches. Here are the top attractions:
1. Explore the Marina and Old Town
Walk along the Marina di Porto Cervo, home to yachts up to 160 meters long. Enjoy upscale cafés, galleries, and high-end boutiques.
Visit the Stella Maris Church, known for its simple charm and harbor views.
2. Discover Porto Cervo’s Iconic Beaches
Porto Cervo boasts some of Italy’s finest beaches:
Spiaggia del Pevero: Soft sands and shallow waters—great for families.
Capriccioli: Unique granite formations and turquoise water.
Liscia Ruja: One of the longest stretches of sand on the Costa Smeralda.
Liscia di Vacca: A scenic favorite among locals and visitors.
Many beaches offer clubs, loungers, and water activities.
3. Walk the Pevero Health Trail
This 4 km trail winds through fragrant Mediterranean vegetation and offers sea views. It’s perfect for a peaceful morning walk or jog.
4. Take a Day Trip to La Maddalena Islands
Explore the nearby La Maddalena Archipelago by boat. Swim in glass-clear waters and enjoy secluded beaches. Tours depart daily from Cannigione or Palau.
5. Attend World-Class Regattas
Porto Cervo hosts top-tier sailing events:
Yacht Club Costa Smeralda Regattas – Throughout summer
These events attract elite sailors and luxury lifestyle seekers.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re seeking glamour or quiet charm, Porto Cervo offers exceptional stays:
Top-Rated Hotels to Stay in Porto Cervo
1. 🔍Hotel Pitrizza, Costa Smeralda (Marriott Luxury Collection)
Rated 9.7/10. This ultra-exclusive retreat offers a private beach, a seawater infinity pool, and stunning Mediterranean views. Guests highlight the peaceful atmosphere, excellent service, and luxurious yet understated style.
2. 🔍Le Suites Porto Cervo
Rated 9.7/10. Located near the marina and high-end shops, this stylish hotel features modern suites, free parking, and top-notch daily housekeeping. Visitors love the clean design and exceptional concierge support.
3. 🔍Relais Villa Carola
Rated 9.3/10. A boutique hotel set on a hillside with views over the harbour. Guests enjoy the spacious rooms, hilltop pool, and home-style breakfasts. The friendly staff regularly assist with restaurant bookings and boat rentals.
4. 🔍Hotel delle Rose – Luxury Boutique Hotel
Rated 9.0/10. This elegant property features three pools, a well-equipped gym, and peaceful surroundings just outside the center. Guests appreciate the refined decor, calm setting, and attentive staff.
5. 🔍Hotel Monti Di Mola
Rated 9.1/10. Surrounded by gardens and close to Cala di Volpe, this relaxed four-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a tranquil pool, and welcoming staff. It’s frequently praised for comfort and value on the Emerald Coast.
Top-Rated Villas to Stay in Porto Cervo
1. 🔍Sea View Big Pevero – 9.9/10
Set on the hillside above Pevero Bay, this elegant villa features panoramic sea views, a spacious terrace for dining and relaxing, a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, free Wi-Fi, and private parking. Just minutes from Grande Pevero Beach—ideal if you have a car.
2. 🔍Costa Smeralda Villetta Indipendente Vista Mare – 9.8/10
A charming stone house with a private garden and covered terrace overlooking Cala di Volpe and Tavolara Island. Guests love the spotless interior, well-equipped kitchen, and exceptionally welcoming hosts. Perfect for families seeking privacy and nature.
3. 🔍Appartamento Il Principe – 9.7/10
This spacious, modern apartment sits right by the Porto Cervo marina and offers stunning yacht views, a high-end kitchen (with dishwasher, coffee machine, washer-dryer), and private garage. Everything—restaurants, supermarket, promenade—is just a short walk away.
4. 🔍Villa Granu – 9.7/10
Located on the Capo Ferro peninsula, this three-bedroom villa offers total privacy, a Mediterranean garden, BBQ area, sun terrace, and sleek white interiors with panoramic windows facing the sea. Guests praise the cleanliness, comfort, and unbeatable seafront location.
5. 🔍Case Della Marina – 9.3/10
A popular complex of villa-style apartments in a gated community above the Yacht Club. Each unit has a large balcony with marina views and access to a shared pool. Guests appreciate the secure setting, friendly welcome, and proximity to Porto Cervo’s main square (5-minute drive).
Top-Rated Apartments in Porto Cervo
1. 🔍Le Suites Porto Cervo – 9.7/10
Modern and stylish suites located near the designer shops of Piazza del Principe. Each unit offers elegant interiors, sea-view terraces, and on-site parking. Guests consistently praise the cleanliness, comfort, and exceptional service. Everything you need—restaurants, nightlife, and shops—is within walking distance.
2. 🔍La Casa Smeralda – 9.6/10
A bright two-bedroom apartment with direct views of the Porto Cervo marina. It features a full kitchen, washing machine, air-conditioning, and double patios that open onto a garden by the water. Guests love the central location and responsive host, making it ideal for longer stays.
3. 🔍Dimora Lombardi Portocervo – 9.5/10
Contemporary apartment tucked away on a peaceful square behind the main promenade. It includes a sea-view balcony, two spacious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, and fast Wi-Fi. Reviewers highlight the cleanliness, excellent value, and helpful local recommendations from the host.
4. 🔍Appartamento Porto Cervo Marina View – 9.2/10
A spacious, split-level apartment with a large terrace overlooking the marina. It features a shared pool, private parking, and modern décor with Sardinian details. Guests appreciate the unbeatable location, walking distance to the center, and the friendly, responsive host.
5. 🔍Cala del Faro – Casa di Mare – 9.2/10
A beachfront two-bedroom apartment just steps from the sand at Cala del Faro. The property includes a shaded terrace with sea views, a compact kitchen, air-conditioning, washing machine, and free Wi-Fi. Guests love the peaceful setting and proximity to Porto Cervo’s attractions by car.
Where to Eat & Drink
- Billionaire Club: Fine dining with live shows.
Quattro Passi al Pescatore: Elegant seafood restaurant offering fresh catch and refined Mediterranean dishes in a waterfront setting.
Zamira Lounge: A sophisticated venue inside Hotel Cala di Volpe serving modern fusion cuisine and crafted cocktails with panoramic views.
- Promenade du Port: Stylish restaurants and summer cocktail spots.
Shopping in Porto Cervo
The Promenade du Port is a haven for luxury shopping. Find brands like Off-White and local designers. Summer nights bring art shows and gelato stands.
Itinerary Suggestions
3-Day Escape
Day 1: Explore the marina, shop local boutiques, and enjoy sunset at Stella Maris Church.
Day 2: Relax at Capriccioli Beach, then take a boat tour to La Maddalena.
Day 3: Morning walk on the Pevero Trail and lunch at Twiga Beach Club.
5-Day Luxury Retreat
Add a spa session, a round of golf, and an evening yacht cruise to elevate your getaway.
FAQs
Is Porto Cervo worth visiting?
Absolutely. It’s one of Italy’s most elite and beautiful seaside destinations.
Is Porto Cervo expensive?
Yes, especially in peak season. Budget options are available in nearby towns.
Which airport serves Porto Cervo?
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is the closest—about 30 km away.
Do I need a car in Porto Cervo?
It helps. Some beaches and sights are best accessed by car.
Do people speak English?
Yes. While Italian is the main language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Final Thoughts
Porto Cervo is more than just a luxury getaway—it’s a dream destination. From exclusive beach clubs to natural beauty and top events, every moment feels special.
Start planning your Costa Smeralda adventure—Porto Cervo awaits!
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!
