Sardinia feels close but different, familiar yet a little wild. Beaches glow turquoise. Cliffs drop into clear coves. Inland villages still follow old rhythms. Distances look short on the map, yet the island stays wild and spacious.
Across the island you mix beaches, coastal towns, road trips and national parks in one trip.
Why visit Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is the second‑largest island in the Mediterranean. It belongs to Italy, but its history and culture feel distinct. Many visitors return because it combines sea time, small towns, road trips, and walking.
The sea and beaches
The first reason to visit Sardinia is the water.
You find shallow sandy bays for children. Pebbly coves for snorkelling. Long surf beaches on the west coast. Wild inlets under white cliffs on the east.
The most famous beach areas are Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena, the Gulf of Orosei, Chia and Villasimius in the south, and La Pelosa near Stintino. Each coast has its own style and crowds.
Towns, villages and history
Sardinia is not only about beaches. There are walled medieval towns like Alghero and Castelsardo. Pastel riverside streets in Bosa. A lively capital in Cagliari. Inland villages in Barbagia with murals and mountain views.
The island also has a deep past. Nuragic towers, Phoenician ports, Roman remains, and Spanish fortresses all share the same landscape.
Nature, hiking and slow travel
If you enjoy walking, Sardinia offers coastal paths, gorge walks and high‑plateau routes.
The Gulf of Orosei is famous for cliff paths down to Cala Goloritzè and other coves. Gennargentu National Park brings mountain hikes and cooler air. Asinara and La Maddalena mix easy paths with island views.
This is also a good island for slow travel. Distances take time. Roads pass small villages, farms and cork oak woods. You can mix two or three bases and still feel you have seen a lot.
Food, wine and local life
Sardinian food reflects both sea and hills. Expect fresh fish, bottarga, pecorino cheese, suckling pig, malloreddus pasta, and seadas pastries. Many visitors enjoy agriturismo dinners in the countryside.
Local wines include Vermentino by the coast and Cannonau inland. Mirto, a myrtle liqueur, often appears at the end of a meal.
Where to stay in Sardinia: best areas and bases
Choosing the right base is the most important Sardinia decision. The island is large. You cannot see everything from one town. Pick one main coast or combine two regions.
Below are the main areas, with simple notes on who they suit.
As a rough guide, coast bases work well for four to seven nights, inland bases for two to four. North Sardinia suits classic beach holidays. The south blends city and sea. The interior adds cooler air and villages to a longer trip.
Cagliari and South Sardinia
Best for: beach time with a city, first trips, short breaks, early or late season.
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia. It has a historic hilltop quarter, a marina, markets and city beaches. From here you can reach the long sands of Poetto, the archaeological site of Nora, and wetlands with flamingos.
Along the south coast you find Pula, Chia, Teulada and Villasimius. This stretch offers some of the island’s most photogenic beaches, with soft sand and clear, shallow water. Villasimius and Costa Rei feel lively in summer. Chia feels more spread out and natural.
Choose this area if you want:
A mix of city and sea
Short airport transfers
Good options in May, June, September and October
Olbia, Costa Smeralda and north‑east Sardinia
Best for: short flights, upscale resorts, quick access to famous bays.
Olbia is a transport hub with an airport and ferry port. North along the coast, Costa Smeralda has polished marinas, designer shops and white‑sand beaches. Resorts like Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia draw yachts in high season.
South and east of Olbia, areas like San Teodoro and Budoni offer long beaches and family hotels. They are popular with European visitors who want easy sea access and day trips.
Choose this area if you want:
Short transfers from Olbia
Refined hotels and beach clubs
Easy boat trips towards La Maddalena and Tavolara
La Maddalena Archipelago
Best for: island feel, boat days, clear water, snorkelling.
La Maddalena is a group of islands off the north‑east coast. The main town stands on Isola La Maddalena, linked to Caprera by a bridge. Ferries leave from Palau on the mainland.
Stay here if you love days on the water. You can take shared boat tours or rent small boats with a skipper to reach pink‑tinged sand and quiet coves. Even in busier months you can often find calm spots away from main stops.
Choose this base if you want:
An intimate island atmosphere
To focus on beaches and coves
To avoid long drives while still seeing many bays
Alghero, Stintino and the north‑west coast
Best for: culture plus sea, short trips, relaxed evenings.
Alghero blends Catalan roots with Italian life. Its old town has stone lanes, sea walls and sunset views. Beaches sit close by, and day trips reach Capo Caccia and Neptune’s Grotto.
Further north, Stintino and La Pelosa beach offer shallow turquoise water and Caribbean‑style images. Porto Torres and the ferry link to Asinara National Park, where you can walk, bike or take eco vehicles across a former prison island.
Choose this area if you want:
A character town as your base
Easy coastal walks and day trips
One region that works well without long drives
Gulf of Orosei, Cala Gonone and the east coast
Best for: scenery, coves, hiking, mixed adventure.
The east coast near the Gulf of Orosei feels wild. Cliffs drop into clear water. Coves like Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritzè sit between rock walls.
Cala Gonone works as a small seaside base. You can take boat trips into the gulf, join guided hikes, or follow paths to viewpoints. Baunei sits higher in the hills and feels more rural.
Choose this area if you want:
A focus on boat trips and walking
Dramatic coastlines and photo stops
Fewer large resorts
West coast, Oristano and Bosa
Best for: quieter stays, road trips, surfing and long views.
The west coast faces open sea. It has dunes, surf spots and archaeological sites. Oristano is a small town with access to the Sinis peninsula and the ruins of Tharros. Further north, Bosa spreads along a river, with colourful houses under a hilltop castle.
Choose this area if you want:
Calmer tourism than Costa Smeralda
Dunes and wilder beaches
A base that suits self‑drive trips
Inland Sardinia and Barbagia
Best for: cooler air, walking, traditions and food.
The interior of Sardinia is a different world. Villages like Orgosolo, Gavoi, Fonni and Oliena sit in valleys and on slopes. Murals brighten street walls. Old festivals and craft traditions still matter.
The National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu brings mountains, forests and occasional snow in winter. This is a good escape in the hottest months or a second base on longer stays.
Choose this area if you want:
A taste of rural Sardinia
Mountain walking and clean air
Hearty food and slower evenings
How to get to Sardinia
You can reach Sardinia by plane or ferry. Many European visitors mix one method each way.
Flying to Sardinia
Sardinia has three main airports:
Cagliari (CAG) in the south
Olbia (OLB) in the north‑east
Alghero (AHO) in the north‑west
In summer, many airlines run direct flights from European cities. Off‑season, you often connect via Rome, Milan or another Italian hub.
Choose your arrival airport based on your base:
South Sardinia and Cagliari coast → fly to Cagliari
Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena and north‑east → fly to Olbia
Alghero, Stintino, Asinara and part of the north‑west → fly to Alghero
Ferries to Sardinia
Ferries are a classic way to start a Sardinia holiday. They also suit road trips and family holidays.
Main ports on the island include:
Cagliari in the south
Arbatax on the east coast
Olbia and Golfo Aranci in the north‑east
Porto Torres in the north‑west
On the mainland, ferries leave from ports such as Genoa, Livorno, Piombino, Civitavecchia and Naples. Routes and timetables change by season. Overnight sailings help you save daytime and combine with cabins.
Book early for summer and weekends. Take care with car height limits if you use roof boxes or bike racks.
Getting around Sardinia
Do you need a car in Sardinia?
For most visitors, yes.
Public transport links the main towns, but many beaches and smaller villages sit far from stations. Buses can be sparse, especially on weekends or outside summer.
A car gives you flexibility for:
Short morning drives to beaches
Coming back for lunch or a rest
Reaching trailheads and viewpoints
If you do not drive, choose your base carefully. Pick a town with a walkable centre, nearby beaches and some tours. Alghero, Villasimius, Cagliari and parts of Costa Smeralda work best without a car.
Roads and driving tips
Most main roads on Sardinia are in decent condition. Many are single carriageways. Distances take longer than they look.
Simple tips:
Avoid tight schedules on changeover days
Watch for animals and cyclists on rural roads
Fill up fuel in larger towns before long routes
Park legally and respect beach access rules
In high season, parking near popular coves fills early. Plan to arrive before mid‑morning or use paid lots.
Best time to visit Sardinia
Sardinia’s climate brings long dry summers and mild winters. The best month depends on your focus.
Late spring: May and June
Sea temperatures begin to rise. Days are long. Wildflowers cover hills. Many hotels and beach clubs open.
This is an ideal time for mixed holidays. You can walk without strong heat, explore towns and still swim.
High summer: July and August
These months bring heat, busy beaches and the highest prices. Local holidays peak around mid‑August.
Choose this period only if you:
Value hot weather and late nights
Book well in advance
Accept crowds at famous beaches
Consider lesser‑known coasts and inland bases to avoid the heaviest pressure.
Early autumn: September and early October
For many European visitors, this is the best time for Sardinia holidays. The sea stays warm. Air temperatures soften. Families return home.
You still find full services in main resorts, but evenings feel calmer.
Late autumn and winter
From late October to April, Sardinia turns quiet. Some hotels and beach bars close, especially in small resorts. Towns and cities stay lively.
This is a good time for road trips, culture and hiking. Sea swimming is possible for hardy visitors, but not the main focus.
Best places to visit in Sardinia
You could spend many trips discovering the island. This section gives a clear overview of key spots to help shape your Sardinia itinerary.
Cagliari and the south coast
Cagliari mixes historic streets with a port and beaches. Climb the Castello district for views. Visit the Roman amphitheatre and the archaeological museum. In the evening, stroll along the marina.
From Cagliari you can day‑trip to Nora, an ancient coastal site. South‑west towards Pula and Chia you find some of the island’s best sands and dunes. South‑east towards Villasimius you see turquoise bays under headlands.
Costa Smeralda and north‑east Sardinia
Costa Smeralda is a short stretch of coast with coves, granite rocks and high‑end resorts. Porto Cervo serves as the social centre.
Nearby, smaller beaches and villages offer a softer feel. This area works well for short Sardinia holidays with a focus on comfort and sea views.
La Maddalena Archipelago
The La Maddalena archipelago lies off the north‑east coast. Its islands sit in protected waters with strict rules.
Visitors usually stay in the main town on Isola La Maddalena. From there, they join boat tours or rent small vessels to explore. Expect white sand, transparent water and quiet patches between stops.
Alghero and the north‑west
Alghero is one of the most charming Sardinia coastal towns. Its old walls and lanes look out over the sea. You can cycle or walk along the waterfront, then return for seafood and wine.
Nearby draws include Neptune’s Grotto, Capo Caccia cliffs, long sandy beaches and the ferry to Asinara National Park. Stintino and La Pelosa beach sit further north and are popular for day trips.
Gulf of Orosei and the east
The Gulf of Orosei is a highlight for nature lovers. Coastal cliffs drop into coves only reachable by boat or on foot.
Cala Gonone is a small resort and harbour town facing the gulf. Boats leave for Cala Luna and other coves. Inland, the Supramonte plateau and Gorropu gorge draw hikers.
West coast, Oristano and Bosa
The west coast sees fewer package holidays but offers big rewards.
The Sinis peninsula near Oristano has long beaches, a lagoon and the open‑air site of Tharros. Winds and waves attract surfers in some spots.
Further north, Bosa lines up pastel houses along a river with a castle above. The coastal road between Bosa and Alghero is one of the most scenic drives on the island.
Inland Barbagia and Gennargentu National Park
Barbagia is a historic inland region. Towns like Nuoro and Orgosolo sit among hills and forests. You still see traditional festivals, costume parades and murals.
The National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu brings mountains, high plateaus and cool summer nights. It suits walkers and visitors who want to see a different face of Sardinia.
Suggested Sardinia itineraries
There is no single best Sardinia itinerary. It depends on your time, style and arrival point. Driving times are longer than maps suggest, so these outlines stay relaxed and leave room for slow mornings.
One week in Sardinia: coast focus
Good for: first visits, couples, families, beach time with light exploring.
Day 1: Arrive in Cagliari or Olbia. Pick up car. Short drive to base. Easy evening walk.
Day 2–5: Rotate nearby beaches and one or two short trips to towns or viewpoints.
Day 6: Day trip further along the coast or simple boat tour.
Day 7: Return to airport or ferry with time for one last swim.
Choose one main base in south Sardinia, Costa Smeralda, Alghero or the Gulf of Orosei.
Ten days in Sardinia: two‑base holiday
Good for: visitors who want variety without rushing.
Days 1–4: Base one by the sea (Cagliari area, Villasimius, Costa Smeralda or Alghero).
Days 5–8: Base two in the Gulf of Orosei for scenery and boat trips, or inland Barbagia for mountain air.
Days 9–10: Loop back towards your departure point. Include one final town stop.
Try to keep the transfer between bases under three hours of driving.
Two weeks in Sardinia: road trip loop
Good for: couples and friends who like drives and changing scenery.
Start in Cagliari or Olbia.
Combine three or four bases: one in the south, one in the north‑east, one near the Gulf of Orosei, and one inland or on the west coast.
Include at least two nights in each base so you are not always packing.
With 14 days you can experience north Sardinia and south Sardinia in one trip. You will still have reasons to return.
Sardinia for different travellers
Sardinia family holidays
Families come to Sardinia for the beaches. Shallow bays, calm mornings and soft sand help everyone relax. Resorts in south Sardinia and north‑east Sardinia often provide kids’ clubs and pools.
Look for:
Short walks from parking to the sea
Shade options on busy beaches
Apartments or family rooms with simple kitchens
If you travel without a car, choose a town with nearby beaches and easy bus links. Alghero, parts of Cagliari and some Costa Smeralda resorts fit this need. Book boat trips in advance and check return times, especially in shoulder months.
Sardinia honeymoon and couples’ trips
Sardinia honeymoon trips often focus on stylish stays and quiet coves. Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena, some boutique hotels in the south and rural retreats inland all work.
Mix sea days with one or two inland nights. Sunset drives, tasting menus and boat days fit well into a romantic week.
Sardinia for hikers and active travellers
If you like walking, climbing or canyon routes, look at:
Gulf of Orosei and the Supramonte
Gennargentu National Park
Inland villages in Barbagia
Choose cooler months and start early in the day. Some routes require guides and permits. Always check local advice.
Practical tips for Sardinia holidays
Budget and costs
Sardinia prices depend on month and area.
July and August on Costa Smeralda are the peak
Shoulder months and inland areas cost less
Self‑catering apartments help families save
Plan ahead for car rental, ferry cabins and popular beach zones, which may have daily caps or fees.
Packing for Sardinia
Bring:
Light clothing and a wind layer
Sun protection, hats and reef‑friendly sunscreen
Water shoes for rocky coves
A small dry bag for boat trips
In shoulder months, add a light jacket and closed shoes for cooler evenings.
Beach rules and respect
Sardinia’s best beaches face strong pressure in high season. Help protect them by:
Following parking and access rules
Avoiding removing sand or shells
Using marked paths to limit erosion
Taking rubbish away with you
Some famous beaches now require advance booking, limited numbers or small fees. Check local information before you go.
Safety and health
Sardinia is generally a safe destination. Normal travel sense applies.
In summer, heat is the main issue. Drink plenty of water, avoid the strongest sun, and watch children on hot sand. On hikes, never underestimate distances and always carry more water than you think you need.
FAQs
Is Sardinia worth visiting on a first trip to Italy?
Yes, if you value sea, space and nature. Sardinia is not a classic city and art route. It suits visitors who prefer beaches, road trips and small towns.
How many days do I need in Sardinia?
A week gives you a clear taste of one coast or area. Ten days allow two bases. Two weeks support a gentle loop between north and south.
Which is better, north Sardinia or south Sardinia?
North Sardinia offers Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena and Alghero. South Sardinia offers Cagliari, Chia and Villasimius. Both have great beaches. Choose based on flight options, your budget and whether you want a city nearby.
Do I need a car in Sardinia?
A car is very helpful for most Sardinia itineraries. Without one, stay in a walkable town with beaches and tours. Your range will be narrower but you can still enjoy the island.
When is the best month to visit Sardinia?
For many visitors, June and September are ideal. You get warm sea, open services and softer crowds. May and early October also work well if you focus on walking and exploring.
Are there national parks in Sardinia?
Yes. Asinara National Park, La Maddalena Archipelago National Park and the National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu are the main national parks on the island. Each mixes land and sea, and each has its own rules and access points.
Is Sardinia good for families?
Yes. Many European families return year after year. The island offers family‑friendly beaches, apartments, and outdoor space. A car makes moving with children easier.
Plan your Sardinia holiday
Sardinia rewards simple planning. Choose one or two bases. Decide whether your focus is beaches, road trips, or a blend of sea and villages. Then match your month to your style.
Start by fixing flights or ferries and your car rental. Next, secure stays in your chosen Sardinia coastal towns or inland villages. Keep room in your itinerary for slow mornings, unscheduled swims and small discoveries.
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