sardinien tourist information

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sardinia

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Maybe the only thing you've heard about Sardinia is its fabled Costa Smeralda, Emerald Coast, which takes its name from the color of the water that laps against its white-sand beaches. But there is a lot more to the rugged Mediterranean island than this sybaritic jet set paradise.

Tourists seeing Sardinia for the first time are surprised to discover that an island so well known for its outstanding beaches can be so rugged and mountainous only a few kilometers from the wave-washed sands. That combination of mountains and pristine beaches make it one of the most beautiful islands in the world .

The other thing that may surprise you is the staggering number of prehistoric sites, especially the enigmatic round stone towers known as nuraghi (singular: nuraghe). You'll learn about the mysteries these prehistoric forts/dwellings hide as you climb their dark stone stairs and explore passageways built in the Bronze and Iron ages. You can also walk on original Roman streets and visit the windswept ruins of cities built by the Phoenicians.

Unique local customs and traditional festivals, attractions you'll find no place else, a cuisine that's quite distinct from the rest of Italy, even a different language (although everyone speaks Italian, and many speak English) make Sardinia a one-of-a-kind place to visit. Discover the best things to do on this fascinating island with our list of the top attractions in Sardinia.

1. Cagliari and the Costa Sud

2. tour nuraghe su nuraxi, 3. visit the costa smeralda, 4. watch the sunset from alghero, 5. nuraghe losa, 6. explore arzachena's prehistoric sites, 7. santa cristina nuraghe and the holy well, 8. discover nuoro and the gennargentu, 9. valle dei nuraghi (valley of nuraghi), 10. enjoy the beaches of capo testa, 11. arcipelago de la maddalena (maddalena islands), 12. tharros, 14. climb to castelsardo, 15. cruise to grotta di nettuno, 16. costa verde, 17. sassari, getting to sardinia, map of attractions & things to do in sardinia.

Most tourists begin their visit in the island capital of Cagliari , stopping at least to climb from Piazza della Costituzione to Bastione San Remy. Built to defend the Castello quarter, site of the beautiful cathedral and the stronghold of whoever controlled the city at the time, today they provide both historical and visual perspective, with sweeping views over the city and bay.

Not far from the Bastione San Remy is the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, with beautifully displayed Punic, Greek, and Roman artifacts, as well as ancient gold work and other treasures discovered in the enigmatic round stone structures called nuraghi , which you will see all over Sardinia.

Head east from the city, and in minutes you can be sunning yourself on one of the fabled beaches that makes Sardinia one of Europe's favorite summer playgrounds. South of Cagliari, the Costa Sud offers tourists a glimpse of Sardinia's infinite variety. From the medieval streets and tall bastions of Cagliari, it's only a few kilometers to the ruins of the ancient city of Nora , where Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans had their trading posts.

Between the headlands beyond Nora are white sandy beaches of the Costa Sud. Some, like Porto Campana and Spiaggia Sa Colonia, are long stretches with long shallow drop-offs, perfect for families with children. Others, like Porticciolo Beach, are beautiful and secluded crescents of white sand. Some have refreshment kiosks and facilities for water sports. The Costa Sud has some of the best beaches in Sardinia.

Within easy reach of Cagliari and the airport, and close to the archeological site of Nora, Forte Village Resort is a self-contained group of hotels overlooking the beach, with water sports, swimming pools, playgrounds, and other recreation facilities. Forte Village is one of the top hotels and resorts in Sardinia.

Remains of literally thousands of these stone towers scatter throughout Sardinia, most in complete ruin, but this is the best preserved and most complete. It is also the closest major one to Cagliari, and the best interpreted, with 30-minute tours and English-speaking guides.

If you can see only one, see this one, which UNESCO cited as one of the best restorations anywhere in the Mediterranean . Timber found in the walls of the central tower was carbon dated to 1,500 BC, and the outer towers were built in the 11th or 12th century BC. You can go inside the tower, climbing to its upper reaches for a close-up view of the stacked dome made of dry stones without mortar.

Spiral stairways inside its 1.8-meter walls connect the three stories, and as you climb through the passageways, you can appreciate the finesse of the engineering and workmanship these prehistoric people achieved.

After exploring the towers and the foundations of the ancient village surrounding it, be sure to stop in the Casa Zapata Museum , in the village, where, along with other fascinating exhibits, you can see another nuraghe that has been excavated under the building. Here, you get a bird's-eye view of the construction from a walkway above the walls.

Address: SS 131, Barumini (near Sanluri)

From the port town of Olbia to the tip of Capo de Testa some of the world's most beautiful beaches are set in craggy coves washed by a sea so green and clear that it's known to the world as the Costa Smeralda, the Emerald Coast.

The comparison with one of the most expensive jewels might also apply to the clientele that has frequented the coast since it was developed by the Aga Khan in the 1960s into a series of resorts for the uber-wealthy. Cosseted resort "villages" are built to resemble Greek islands and the Riviera.

The center of all this is Porto Cervo , a resort village and marina for private yachts built in the 1960s. The resorts take guests by boat to the secluded beaches, which are inaccessible by land. People-watching is Porto Cervo's primary attraction for those not booked into a resort. The most modest resort town in the region is lively little Cannigione , on the Gulf of Arzachena.

The five-star L'ea Bianca Luxury Resort , near Porto Cervo, personifies the sybaritic lifestyle that made the Costa Smeralda famous, its smart rooms overlooking the sea from private balconies.

Don't be surprised if the language you hear around you in this lively seaside city sounds a bit different-almost like Spanish. It is, and you may still find some signs and labels in Spanish, too. A 14th-century Pope gave Sardinia to the King of Aragon, hoping to wrest the island from control of Pisa and Genoa.

The king gave fiefdoms to about 400 families from Aragon and Catalonia if they would settle the island with a base in Alghero, displacing the local population. Mass in the church of San Francesco is still said in Catalan, and you should add it to your sightseeing list to see the graceful 13th-century cloister, reached through the sacristy to the left of the altar.

The 14th-century cathedral has a Spanish Gothic doorway. As afternoon fades into evening, one of the popular things to do is climb the walls built by the Spanish to protect against attack by sea, and join locals for an evening promenade along their wide bastions to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.

Another vantage point for watching the sunset is from a former private palazzo overlooking the sea, the old town bastions and beautiful Capo Caccia, Villa las Tronas Hotel & Spa was a favorite retreat of the Savoy royal family, and the service and accommodations are still fit for a king.

You may wonder if you need to stop at every nuraghe, and if you haven't become fascinated with these mysterious towers by now, perhaps you shouldn't. But most tourists quickly fall under the spell of these towers, of which so much remains unknown, and soon discover that each one is quite different.

Considered one of the three best, Losa has several distinctions. It is lighted inside by recessed lamps, so if you don't carry a flashlight, this is your chance to see the interior details of its stacked stone thalos domes. It is one of the most complex, a large tower with three outer towers forming a triangular bastion, which you can explore through a maze of stone passageways that spiral up inside its massive walls.

The second floor is still intact and the roof complete. Although dating from about the 12th to 14th centuries BC (the Bronze Age), the large central room of the main tower is in excellent condition and more refined in its construction than most others. A tiny museum contains bronze bracelets and other artifacts found here.

Location: Off SS 131, close to Abbasanta

One of the highest concentrations of Stone and Copper Ages attractions is only a few kilometers from the Costa Smeralda resorts, but seems a whole world away. The six notable sites include nuraghi, burial sites, and the curious chambered tombs known locally as tomba gigante (giants' graves).

The principal chambered tomb of Coddu Vecchiu , a tunnel grave from the 18th century BC, had an entry facade of flat stones added several centuries later, and another, Li Lolghi , has a similar entrance, but with a three-and-a-half-meter standing stone.

The nearby necropolis of Li Muri had stone graves built inside circles of flat standing stones once covered by mounds of earth. Nuraghi Albucciu is unusual in that its shape is oval, with one side formed by a large stone outcrop. Nuraghe La Prisgiona is the most recently excavated, a central tower with two side towers and the remains of a village.

This region is known for its rock outcrops, often eroded by the wind into curious shapes; one just east of Arzachena looks like a giant mushroom. A short walk from one of these outcrops, in the hills above Arzachena, the cottages of Tenuta Pilastru are tastefully decorated in locally crafted furnishings and art, and each has its own terrace for savoring the view. Savor, too, the meals at the outstanding restaurant.

Santa Cristina Nuraghe and the Holy Well

Not far north of Oristano is one of Sardinia's most atmospheric and diverse archaeological attractions, where you can see a remarkably preserved "holy well" -a well temple from 1200-1100 BC-and a nuraghe tower where you can climb to its open wildflower-strewn roof for views down onto the prehistoric stone village that surrounded it.

One of the oblong houses still has its stone roof intact. Take a flashlight, so you can see the interior as you climb to the nuraghe roof. If you want another layer of history, stop between the well and the nuraghe to see the group of tiny stone pilgrim lodgings, former monks' cells surrounding a 12th-century church. Pilgrimages still come here in May and October.

Location: Cabras, 19 kilometers west of Oristano

Clinging to the top of a steep mountain ridge, the precipitous streets of Nuoro open to views in every direction. The 19th-century cathedral of Santa Maria della Neve sits above a cliff that drops straight into the valley, and the small plaza in front of the church is almost the only level spot in town.

Nuoro is a good base for exploring the surrounding Gennargentu , Sardinia's most rugged and beautiful interior mountains, and the remote villages ( Mamoiada is especially interesting), which seem barely touched by the 20th century, let alone the 21st. It's a fascinating region, with towns clinging to steep mountainsides and local customs that still ring of the ancient past. Trekking through the Gola Su Gorropu, known as Europe's Grand Canyon, is one of the best things to do in Italy for adventure seekers.

Driving here, however, is not for the faint of heart, as roads are narrow and steep with hairpin turns over sheer drops, without railings. You can learn more about these villages and their often strange customs at the outstanding Museo Etnografico Sardo (Museum of Sardinian Traditions), which alone is worth a stopover in Nuoro.

This is the island's best collection (and brilliantly displayed) of Sardinian costume and decorative art; clothing is shown on models with jewelry and accessories worn at weddings and festivals. An entire gallery displays traditional masks. While you're there, the National Archeological Museum has collections excavated from the Neolithic sites, as well as fossils.

Ringed by the cones of ancient volcanoes, this broad, flat valley, scattered with eroded rock formations, is also sprinkled with prehistoric sites, foremost of them, the 16-meter-tall Nuraghe Santu Antine .

One of the island's three largest and most complex, with three towers connected by a defensive wall, Santu Antine was built in the 16th century BC. This is one of the most interesting to explore, because you can climb the stairs inside the thick walls of the central tower to the second and third floors, which are intact, and follow an upper corridor from the west to the north towers.

From the top, you can see several other nuraghi, and a short drive away is Sant'Andrea Priu , tombs carved into a rock somewhere between 4000 and 3000 BC. They were used in medieval times as hermitages, and you can see frescoes painted inside some. This site is open irregularly, but you can see it from the entrance and climb a trail to see those on the top.

Location: Off SS 131, Torralba, Sardegna

Rena di Ponente beach in northern Sardinia

In Northern Sardinia, between the Costa Smeralda and the Maddalena Islands, Capo Testa shares the same luminous turquoise waters and pristine sandy beaches. Many of these are backed by cliffs and rock formations that are carved into fantastic shapes by the wind, making them among the island's most scenic beaches.

Best of all, unlike those of the Costa Smeralda, these beaches are free, and you don't need to take a boat to get to them. Near the pleasant town of Santa Teresa Gallura, where there are hotels and restaurants, you'll find three of the area's seven Blue Flag beaches: Rena di Ponente, Rena Levante , and Rena Bianca . The latter is the largest, with a gentle slope and shallow waters. Those looking for windsurfing and snorkeling waters should head to Santa Reparata .

Arcipelago de la Maddalena (Maddalena Islands)

Ferries leave the little port of Palau regularly for the half-hour trip to La Maddalena, the only town in the archipelago in the Strait of Bonifacio, between Sardinia and Corsica . Apart from the beaches, the most remote of which are reached only by boat, tourists come here to cross over the causeway and bridge to the neighboring island of Caprera .

The home here of Giuseppe Garibaldi , revered as the father of the Italian state for his leadership in the fight for Italian unity and independence, is a national monument that attracts visitors from all over Italy and beyond. The other end of the island has several beaches, easy to find by paths leading from the single road.

The sea around the islands is popular with sailors. The combination of white- and pink-sand beaches , crystal waters, and a myriad of secluded beaches on tiny islands put the Maddalenas among the best European beach destinations .

Walk amid the stone remains of Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman cultures on this rocky point and try to picture what it looked like when the Roman streets beneath your feet were lined by shops where you now see only foundations and doorsteps. Columns from the baths still stand, along with parts of the aqueduct and temples; the amphitheater overlooks the sea.

On the hilltop above is a Phoenician necropolis (they left about 650 BC). For a sense of what archaeologists have found here, visit the excellent Museo Civico Giovanni Marongiu in the town of Cabras where carved stone stele, funerary urns, and other finds are displayed, positioned as they were originally found.

You can see more of the treasures unearthed here in the Antiquarium Arborense museum, in the small city of Oristano , also nearby. The Duomo of Santa Maria in Oristano dates from medieval times, but was renovated during the Spanish rule of this part of Sardinia in the 18th and 19th centuries, which accounts for the colorful tiles covering its domes.

A former private palazzo, Residenza d'Epoca Regina d'Arborea has elegant rooms furnished with antiques and Murano chandeliers. Although it's one minute from the Duomo of Santa Maria in the center of Oristano, the hotel provides free parking. The sumptuous breakfast is served on fine china.

Since the 9th century BCE, Bosa has overlooked the mouth of Sardinia's only navigable river, in a valley that is today green with farms. A tangle of medieval streets winds from the old stone bridge and pastel buildings lining the riverfront to the hilltop Malaspina Castle . The palm-lined riverfront, colorful houses, and castle rising above them make Bosa one of the most charming towns in Europe .

Although you can drive straight to the castle, take some time to walk in the old streets, where modest little houses mix comfortably with grand noble homes; the restored manor house of Casa Deriu is open as a museum with furnished rooms and an art gallery. Inside the castle is a 13th-century chapel, where you should see the unusual 14th-century fresco cycle.

The coastal road north from Bosa to Alghero is spectacular, and not at all hair-raising, despite its height above the sea in places.

As attractive as the busy little fishing harbor town is, with its pastel houses climbing up the hill, it pales compared to the medieval village inside the walls above. At the very top is a 12th-century castle with a good museum that explores the local craft specialty of basket making.

The narrow streets around the castle wind steeply down the hill, breaking into steps at the steepest points, and in doorways, you may see women weaving baskets with intricate designs. Views from the top extend in both directions along the coast and as far as Corsica.

The Duomo, in the little plaza below, has one of Sardinia's finest altarpieces, dating from the 15th century, along with fine woodcarvings in the choir and a crypt. Its bell tower began life as a lighthouse.

Take a cruise from the Banchina Dogana (harbor) in Alghero to the tip of Capo Caccia, the long headland that you saw from Alghero's walls, to visit this beautiful cave, bristling with stalagmites and stalactites that reflect in an underground lake.

The Grotta di Nettuno was carved by the sea, in cliffs that tower almost 304 meters above. The mouth of the cave is at sea level, and arriving by water is the most dramatic way to approach, not to mention the easiest. But you can also drive here, about 14 kilometers from Alghero, passing an interesting nuraghi alongside the road. Once here, you'll need to walk down (and, remember, also climb back up) on the 656 steps of the Escala del Cabirol (goat stairs), carved into the face of the cliff.

Location: Capo Caccia, Alghero, Sardinia

Some of the best beaches in Italy , miles of dune-backed sands along the southwest coast, are among the best-kept secrets of Sardinia. The Costa Verde has few tourist services, hence few tourists, which is one of its chief attractions. You'll find small hotels and comfortable country guesthouses, such as the modest Hotel Corsaro Nero , on a hillside overlooking the beach at Portu Maga.

Be prepared to bring your own loungers and beach umbrellas, and don't expect to find beach-side snack bars. But do expect to find secluded spots without another person in sight, along with wide beaches and dunes as high as 60 meters, among Europe's highest.

The only beach where you're likely to find vendors and kiosks is Scivu Beach, where a three kilometer stretch of white sand still leaves everyone plenty of space. This western shore of Sardinia gets more active surf and more wind than the eastern and southern beaches, so the Costa Verde is not an ideal place to visit for family holidays.

Sassari, Sardinia's second largest city, is a lively university and cultural center, and boasts some fine buildings in Catalan Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. Walk down Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, the main street in medieval times, looking up to see old porticos and windows on homes from the region's Spanish period, five centuries ago.

Museo Nazionale Sanna , one of Sardinia's most important museums, displays archaeological collections that include Nuragic bronze figures and jewelry, as well as Roman artifacts. Don't miss the Duomo, whose façade is a riot (you might say a hodge-podge) of 17th-century ornament styles, created by stone carvers from Milan.

Several other churches are worth looking inside if they are open, but the most memorable of all stands almost alone in a landscape of grazing sheep about 12 kilometers south of Sassari on SS 131. The black-and-white striped tower soars above the church and ruined cloister of Santissima Trinità di Saccargia , the finest example of Pisan architecture in Sardinia. Inside, if you're lucky enough to find it open, are 13th-century frescoes.

Car ferries connect Sardinia to mainland Italy, 193 kilometers away, and less frequently to Mediterranean ports in both France and Spain. Ferries leave from Savona (on the western Italian Riviera), Genoa, Livorno (near Pisa), and Civitavecchia (Rome), arriving at the Sardinian ports of Cagliari (the capital in the southern part of the island), Arbatax (on the east coast), Olbia (Costa Smeralda), and Porto Torres (north coast).

Lines serving Sardinia are Tirrenia, Grandi Navi Veloci, Moby Lines, Snav, Corsica/Sardinia Ferries, and Grimaldi Lines. Regular flights connect Cagliari International Airport to Rome and other cities, and smaller airports for domestic and other flights are at Olbia and Alghero.

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Visit Sardinia: Top 25 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 25 best things to do in sardinia (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Sardinia during your next trip? You want to know more about the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 25 best things to do in Sardinia , with all the must-see attractions of the island.

Discover Cagliari , the Costa Smeralda , the Gulf of Orosei , Alghero and many more amazing places to visit during your trip.

So, where to go in Sardinia? What are the best points of interest?

Let’s find out!

1. Cagliari

2. the scenic sp71 road from porto teulada to chia, 3. sant’antioco island, 4. san pietro island, 5. the nuraghes, 6. the iglesiente coast, 7. tharros and the sinis peninsula, 8. oristano, 10. asinara island, 11. alghero, 12. the neptune caves, 13. castelsardo, 14. costa paradiso, 15. capo testa, 16. la maddalena island, 17. caprera island, 18. costa smeralda and porto cervo, 19. orgosolo, 20. gulf of orosei, 21. bue marino caves, 22. gorropu gorge and the ss 125 road, 23. sardinia beaches, 24. visiting caves in sardinia, 25. discover sardinian cuisine, renting a boat in sardinia, you’re traveling in sardinia these articles will help you, visit sardinia: the 25 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Sardinia, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sardinia – With all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (North + South)
Itinerary: 1 week in Sardinia – How to visit Sardinia in 6, 7 or 8 days (North or South)
Itinerary: 10 days in Sardinia – The definitive guide to visit Northern Sardinia in 10 days!
Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sardinia – The perfect 14, 15 or 16 days itinerary in Northern Sardinia
Itinerary: 14, 15 or 16 days in Sardinia – The perfect 2 weeks itinerary in Southern Sardinia
Itinerary: 3 weeks in Sardinia – With all my best tips to visit the whole island in 20 or 21 days!
Itinerary: North West of Sardinia (1 week) – How to visit Sardinia in 6, 7 or 8 days from Alghero

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this guide of Sardinia with Cagliari, the capital.

If the modern part of the city isn’t very interesting, the historical center however is worth a visit.

If you’re visiting Sardinia, you’re likely to start or end your trip at Cagliari airport, so why not stay around for a bit and go for a stroll in the old town.

Here are the best places to see in Cagliari:

Il Castello: uptown traditional district where most of the tourist attractions are located
Cagliari Cathedral : you should go have a look at the Aragonese chapels and the Martyrs crypt
Palazzo di Citta: located next to the cathedral, this small museum displays Sardinian paintings and textiles
The National Archaeological Museum and its collection of objects and artifacts from the Nuragic civilization . It’s one of the main museums of Sardinia
Bastion of Saint Remy and the Umberto I terrace with its incredible view over Cagliari
San Benedetto market to try out all the Sardinian delicacies
Poetto beach: this 7km long beach is one of the longest in Italy and the closest to the city center.

Looking for more things to do in Cagliari? Read my detailed article: The 10 Best things to do in Cagliari

Another must see in Sardinia is the scenic road (“Strada Panoramica” in Italian) from Porto Teulada to Chia .

The SP71 road is one of the most beautiful of the island.

It goes along the South-East coastline with amazing panoramic views . Also called Strada Panoramica della Costa del Sud, the road passes by several beaches with crystal clear water .

There are so many of them, just pick one and take a dip!

Here is the list of my favorite spots along the road:

Spiaggia di Cala Piscinni, you can park right next to the entrance, very kid-friendly!
Torre di Pixinni beach is a pebble beach and one of my favorites from my trip to Sardinia. We were totally alone when we went there!
Tuerredda beach and its turquoise water
Su Giudeu beach is so huge that you’ll always find a free spot there
Cipolla beach is another nice sandy beach with nice rock formations around and super clear water. It’s my favorite beach of the Strada Panoramica!
The Capo Spartivento lighthouse: take the path from Cala Cipolla to get there. The view over the entire coastline is breathtaking!

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in South Sardinia, then you should stop by Sant’Antioco island . It’s the 4th biggest island in Italy after Sicily , Sardinia and Elba.

A bridge connects the island to the mainland, so no need to take a ferry to get there.

What to see in Sant’Antioco, Sardinia:

Sant’Antioco city: the island’s main city. You can walk around the port and the beachfront, visit the Sant’Antioco basilica, go to the archeological museum, the Forte Su Piso or even the Villagio Ipogeo and see troglodyte houses
Maladroxia, a small beach town with lots of hotels and restaurants
Coa Quaddus beach, unsupervised beach with a nice view over Torre Canai
Cala Sapone beach: small beach with bars and restaurants around. You can also rent pedal boats and kayaks
Cala Lunga beach: the most beautiful beach in Sant’Antico! A great sand beach with clear shallow water

Right next to Sant’Antioco, San Pietro is another worthy place to visit in Sardinia.

Must see attractions on San Pietro island:

Carloforte: where most of the hotels, shops, restaurants and cafés are located. There isn’t much to see, but it gets very lively by the end of the day, so stop there and get a drink!
Bobba beach: a very trendy beach in San Pietro. There is a big parking lot, a bar and you can rent kayaks. If you want to snap great shots of the surrounding rock formations, go for a walk on the path to the right side.
Conca coastline: from there you have some nice views of the cliffs
Spiagga Spalmatore (Caletta beach), the most famous beach
Capo Sandalo, for sure the most beautiful spot on the island! From there you have a 180 ° view of the surroundings.

Voyage Tips Advice To go to San Pietro from Sant’Antioco, take the ferry leaving from Calasseta.

There is one every hour and it’s a 30min trip.

Tickets are around 35€ for 2 people + 1 vehicle.

If you travel to Sardinia, you need to go see at least one nuraghe , they’re everywhere on the island!

But first, what is a nuraghe?

If you have never heard about them, no worries: it was the same for me before going to Sardinia.

Basically, nuraghes are rock structures from the Bronze age and the Nuragic civilization . We don’t know exactly what they were used for, but studies say they were used as observation towers and for sacred rituals .

At first they were just made of one simple tower, but some nuraghes turned into fortified multiple towers complexes.

The most visited in Sardinia is Su Nuraxi Nuraghe . It’s a large complex located in Barumini and the only one listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

It’s made of one central tower with a bastion, 4 side towers, a yard and a well. Fortifications and more towers were added to it over time. A small Nuragic village with about 50 houses was also built around it.

Only guided tours are available .

Other noteworthy nuraghes are the Arrubiu, Di Palmavera and Santu Antine Nuraghe.

You’re going to Sardinia? Then, the Iglesiente Coast is another place you shouldn’t miss.

The SP 83 coastal road along the Iglesiente is famous for its breathtaking views over the sea and the mountains.

It also goes through ancient mining towns , an important feature of this part of Sardinia. This region used to hold the majority of the island’s resources such as lead and silver.

Today, this mountainous region is characterized by wild preserved landscapes.

Here are the must-see attractions along the Iglesiente coast, Sardinia:

Fontanamare beach: a long sandy beach popular among surfers
The Pan di Zucchero rock was named after the one in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With an height of 133 meters, it’s one of the tallest faraglioni of Sardinia.
Nebida and its viewpoint on the Pan di Zucchero
Masua and its beach, the scenic view over the Pan di Zucchero from there is very beautiful
Porto Flavia mine: the cliff was dug in for almost 600 meters to allow ore transportation. You can only visit it with a guided tour, it needs to be booked at the Iglesias tourist office.
Cala Domestica, a small beach surrounded by limestone cliffs
Buggerru, a former mining village
Portixeddu beach, a 3 km long sandy beach surrounded by pine trees

Let’s continue exploring Sardinia by going to the Sinis Peninsula .

This area is located in the Center-Western part of Sardinia, close to the Gulf of Oristano . You’ll find there several beaches among the most beautiful of Sardinia, the most famous being for sure Is Aruttas and Putzu Idu.

The peninsula is also home to a major archeological site of the island: Tharros archeological site .

This former trading post was founded by the Phoenicians and quickly became a major trade hub, thanks to its strategic location.

It was completely abandoned in 1070 and only ruins remain today.

The site is open every day and the entrance fee is 5€.

Voyage Tips Advice Right after Tharros, you can go for a lovely walk on Capo San Marco .

Another great place to visit in Sardinia is the city of Oristano , on the Western part of the island.

Oristano is a very pleasant city, perfect to walk around for about an hour in the historic center . It’s very small but it’s super lovely, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and coffee shops there. There’s also a commercial street to do some shopping.

Visit Oristano, in Sardinia:

Start by going to the Piazza del Duomo and admire the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral
Continue with the Church of San Francesco
Then go to the Piazza Eleonora d’Arborea. It pays tribute to the Judge of Oristano, who drafted the Carta de Logu, known to be one of the first civil codes in Europe.
Finish with the Piazza Roma where the Tower of Mariano II is located. During the medieval period, Oristano used to be a fortified city, and this is one of the 2 remaining towers.

Voyage Tips Advice Don’t leave Oristano without having an ice cream at Barbagelato , located on Piazza Rima.

Let me get straight to the point: it’s fore sure the best ice cream I had in Sardinia, and probably the best I have ever had in my life!

If you’re looking for things to do in Sardinia, then you should go visit the lovely town of Bosa.

Bosa is a cute small town with pastel colored houses , located next to a river. With its castle up the hill , it’s in my opinion one of the most beautiful villages in Sardinia .

The best viewpoint to take pictures of Bosa is located on the road, a few minutes before entering the town.

Here are the main tourist attractions in Bosa:

The ponte Vecchio (“old bridge”) to acces the old town
The Corso Vittorio Emanuel, the main avenue of the city, with many restaurants and gift shops
Bosa Cathedral
The Museum Casa Deriu to have a look at the lace and embroidery artwork – Very popular in Bosa
The Castle of Serravalle: overlooking the whole city, you should definitely go upstairs to enjoy the view of the sea and mountains. You can also visit the castle, mainly famous for its chapel and ancient frescos.

A few kilometers away from Bosa there is also the Bosa Marina coastal resort .

The place isn’t very beautiful, so if you want to take a beach break after visiting Bosa, you should rather go to the beaches located North of the city , such as Compultittu or de S’abba Drucche beach.

During your trip to Sardinia, why not go to Asinara island?

Located at the North-Western tip of the island , the place has quite a unique history: from World War I to December 1997, it was housing prisoners of war and even prisoners from the mafia!

In 1997, the prison closed and Asinara island was established as a National Park, thanks to its rich flora (many endemic species) and Fauna.

Nowadays, cars are not allowed on Asinara island except, of course, for tourist excursions.

To visit the island, you first need to take a boat in Stintino .

The trip takes about 30min and there’s usually only one departure per day, around 9:00. You definitely need to book it in advance!

There are 3 ways to discover the island:

You can go on a jeep tour with a guide, hop on the tourist mini-train or rent a bike (the only autonomous way to visit the island). Everything gets booked very quickly, so don’t forget to book your excursion in advance.

In any case, be on time! Because if you miss the boat, there is no other solution to get there (or come back to Sardinia – you don’t want to sleep in the prison, right? 😅)

Once on the island, you can visit the prison , picnic in a cove and see the famous albino dwarf donkeys of Asinara .

As it’s a protected area, you won’t really be able to take a dip there. Swimming is prohibited in most beaches.

Alghero is another town that’s worth a visit in Sardinia

Located on the North-Western coast, the city is famous for its historical center and paved alleys, full of monuments to check out.

For sure, Alghero is a very nice town , but let’s be honest, it’s also very touristy!

You will find gift shops, restaurants and coffee shops everywhere . There are also many stores selling coral jewelry , the specialty of the region.

So, what are the best things to do in Alghero, Sardinia ?

Take a walk on the ramparts, they have been recently renovated so it’s really nice
Wander in the old city and its narrow streets
Go for a stroll along the Lungomare promenade
Discover Alghero cathedral
Go up the cathedral bell tower and enjoy the view
Have a drink on Piazza Civica, the main square in Alghero
Visit the Coral Museum, to discover local craft
Book a tour to the Neptune caves (more details below)

For more information about Alghero, you can read my detailed article about the city: The 6 Best things to do in Alghero

And if you chose Alghero as your base during your stay in Sardinia, you should definitely read my itinerary to visit Alghero and its surroundings in one week: North West of Sardinia in a week

The Neptune caves are a another must-see during a trip to Sardinia.

Located close to Alghero , there are several ways to go to the Neptune caves:

By boat from Alghero. The boat drops you off at the entrance and pick you up after your visit. You should book your tickets in advance.
By boat from the pier in Porto Conte, the last village before the caves.
On foot! You’ll have to go down the 654 steps carved in the cliff , it’s quite impressive. Don’t forget that you’ll also have to climb them back later! It’s the most exhausting option but it’s the “safest” one in a way: when the sea is a bit rough, boats can’t disembark passengers and have to go back to the port.

The caves are 4km long but only a part of it is open to the public. During your visit, you will see numerous stalactites and stalagmites and even an inland lake.

Only guided tours are available, they start every hour from 9:00 to 19:00 . So keep in mind that if you come to the cave at 09:10, you’ll have to wait for the 10:00 tour.

The tour takes about 45min and costs 13€ per person (7€ for children).

Looking for the best places to visit in Sardinia?

Then Castelsardo, a lovely medieval village located in Sassari province is a great choice for a few hours stop.

And if I say medieval village, you say… castles and ramparts! Castelsardo will not disappoint you on that.

You can go on a nice walk in the village , discover the cathedral, the bell tower, the chiesa di Santa Maria and the castle. You’ll find inside a museum dedicated to the famous local craft: basketry.

You’ll even be able to see on the streets a few old ladies still practicing this art. They’ll be delighted to give you a demonstration!

Castelsardo is a popular stop for tours, so you’ll also find there the usual gift shops and local craft shops, along with many bars and restaurants . Allow about 1 or 2 hours for the whole visit.

Speaking of Castelsardo, don’t forget to also stop by the Elephant Rock located nearby.

As its name suggest, this rock, the most famous of Sardinia, has the shape of an elephant. There are also two neolithic tombs inside .

You must stop there to take a few pics!

I can’t talk about the best things to do in Sardinia without mentioning the Costa Paradiso, a stunning coast with many coves. It’s really a place you should visit during your trip to Sardinia.

Usually, on your way to the coast and the village , you have to go through a gated road with a guard . I say “usually” because, when we went there, the gate was open and there was no guard in sight.

After that, the road goes down towards the sea and goes through many holiday homes more or less hidden in the surrounding nature.

Even if it overall looks very nice, you’ll quickly understand that you’ve arrived in the super touristy part of Sardinia , with its big holiday resorts and higher prices.

In a way it’s like the French Riviera of Sardinia!

The most popular cove in Costa Paradiso is Li Cossi . You can get there following a very beautiful (and easy) path for about 10min on foot from the parking lot.

The cove is magnificent but quite small , so it’s always a bit crowded. It makes sense given how many houses are located close to it.

On the beach, You will find a bar and you can also rent paddle boats and kayaks.

You should really do this kind of activities there: with the pink granite rock and the turquoise water , the landscape is splendid!

The Capo Testa was one of my favorite place during my trip to Sardinia.

Capo Testa was used during Roman times as a granite carry and is now a long stretch of giant rock formations with surprising shapes ! This phenomenon is due to erosion in this area located right next to the sea.

It’s really an amazing place, you can walk around the site at your own pace and take pictures of all these giant rocks.

There is also a few beautiful beaches in Capo Testa:

Spiaggia Zia Culumba with its big rocks and crystal clear water
Cala Spinosa, turquoise water and nice rock formations!
Cala Francese, accessible via a path from Capo Testa lighthouse
Ponente beach and Rena di Levante beach, 2 large fine sandy beaches.

The Maddalena Island is for sure one of the best places to visit in Sardinia.

The island is part of the Arcipelago di La Maddalena National Park, made of 7 islands.

The 2 biggest, La Maddalena and La Caprera (more info about it below), are the only ones you can visit by car. The other smaller islands can only by explored by boat.

To go to Maddalena Island , there are ferries leaving from Palau .

The trip lasts about 20min and costs 40€ roundtrip for 2 people and a car. Several companies offer this trip every day.

The main attraction in La Maddalena is, without a doubt, the beaches . There is no city or specific villages to visit.

You should rent a car and drive along the panoramic road going around the island to enjoy the views. You should of course take beach breaks whenever you feel like it.

Here are the best spots to take a dip on Maddalena island:

Bassa Trinita: white sand and clear water are waiting for you there. It’s also a very popular beach so there’s often a lot of people
Spiaggia di Monte di Rena: a large sandy beach, also quite popular
Spiaggia del Cardellino: a quieter beach located right after Monte di Rena. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy the sea in Sardinia
Spalmatore beach, one of the most touristy on the Island
Testa del Polpo beach or Capocchia du Purpu, meaning “octopus head”. You must stop there, it’s in my opinion the best beach of La Maddalena. Turquoise shallow water, big rocks, it looks just like the Seychelles!

If you also want to visit the other islands only accessible by boat (such as Budelli or Spargi ), you should book your day trip now (click here) .

This full day trip will take you around the islands with several beach breaks or visits. It also includes the lunch.

For more details about the Maddalena, you should read my article: How to visit the Maddalena archipelago?

Voyage Tips Advice During your boat trip from Palau to reach la Maddalena , you can see in the distance on your left the famous Roccia del Orso, a rock shaped like a bear.

It’s possible to visit the site, but you have to pay for both the parking and the entrance to the site, that’s a lot just to look at a rock.

La Caprera is the 2nd biggest island of the Maddalena archipelago . It’s super easy to go there, you just have to cross the bridge connecting it with its neighbor , La Maddalena island.

There too, you’ll find many amazing beaches:

Cala Serena: easily a accessible on foot (10min away from Garibaldi beach) it is, in my humble opinion, the most beautiful beach of La Caprera
Cala Caprarese: located at the mouth of a river, it looks like you’re in a small fjord
Cala Napoletana: the most popular beach, with many boats moored close by
The isolated beaches: Cala Brigantina and Cala Coticcio. You’ll need to walk a bit more to reach them.

After the beach, go to the Teialone tower viewpoint . A staircase leads to the highest point of the island, at 212 metres above sea level.

Of course, don’t forget to go the house of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Compendio Garibaldino.

You may not know it, but the Italian patriot bought the island and made it his home when he retired. Nowadays, you can go on a guided tour of his home.

The best way to finish your visit of La Caprera is to go to the Batteria Poggio Rasu Superiore .

This former military battery offers the most beautiful view over the whole island and its surroundings. You may even spot wild goats there!

You’ll find more information about visiting Caprera island in my article: The best things to do in La Maddalena archipelago.

Voyage Tips Advice For your lunch break on Caprera island, you shouold go to “I Mille” .

The Costa Smeralda is very popular in Sardinia among the jet set and other wealthy people.

It’s really the place to be and to be seen for all the billionaires with their yachts.

Porto Cervo port, the “capital” of Costa Smeralda, is filled with luxury boats . You’ll also find there many luxury boutiques , perfect to get the latest trendy bag. A few celebrities like Harrison Ford or Sting own big properties there.

The beaches around Porto Cervo are in the same vibe: no free parking lots, most of the beaches are private with sun beds everywhere . Nevertheless, they are still really beautiful. Just don’t go there if you want to be alone 😋.

Where to take a dip on the Costa Smeralda:

Pevero beach, located 3km away from Porto Cervo, this beach is very popular and often crowded. When we were there, we even saw a 100 meters long yacht in the bay
Principe beach : also very popular (and very nice) beach
Romazzino beach
Capriccioli beach
Ruja beach: an upscale private beach, well equipped.

If you plan to go to Costa Smeralda during your trip to Sardinia, You should read my detailed Costa Smeralda guide: How to visit the Costa Smeralda?

Voyage Tips Advice It was the Aga Khan who decided to buy that land in 1962, and create the Costa Smeralda consortium .

His goal was to turn this region into a renowned holiday resort .

When you visit Sardinia , you can also discover beautiful mountain villages such as Orgosolo .

Orgosolo is famous for its “murals” , paintings and frescos painted directly on the houses facades .

Most of them have some kind of political message or are related to major international events such as 9/11 for example. There are more than 200 murals in Orgosolo.

Most frescoes are located along the Corso Repubblica and the adjacent streets.

If you want to know the story behind the murals, you should rent an audioguide with a map (5€/person) , or just the map for 3€ if you prefer.

Of course, you can also simply wander in the streets for free!

This place is quite popular, so you’ll find many tourist shops selling murals-related products: mousepads, coasters, t-shirts, and even postcards.

The main tourist attraction in the Gulf of Orosei are the cruises, taking you to coves that are only accessible by boat.

Most boats leave from Cala Gonone , a small coastal town.

There are many cruises agencies to choose from , they are located in the city center and on the pier . Overall, they all offer the same kind of trips, for the same price.

However, as the place is very famous, you should really book your cruise at least a day in advance.

There are 3 ways to discover the Gulf of Orosei by boat:

A sailboat cruise: it’s a full-day tour, about 90€ per person, including lunch and several beach breaks.
A zodiac cruise with a skipper driving the boat. You will do several stops in coves and it costs about 40€ per person. Departure at 9:30 and return at 17:30.
Renting a zodiac that you can drive yourself even without a boat license. It costs around 120€ for the boat and gas. It’s the option I have choosen during my trip, as I am not a big fan of strict schedule. I really prefer to go where I want, when I want! At the end of the day if you’re at least 4 people, it’s even cheaper than a cruise. Besides, it’s super fun (and not too complicated) to drive the boat.

Whatever way you choose, here are the best coves of the Gulf of Orosei:

Cala Sisine
Cala Biriola
Cala Mariolu
Cala Gabbiani
Cala Goloritzé

This cruise is one of the best activity you can do in Sardinia!

For more information, check out my detailed article: How to visit the Gulf of Orosei and Supramonte.

Located in the Gulf of Orosei, not far from the coves, the Bue Marino caves are a major point of interest in this part of Sardinia.

They’re named after the monk seal, called, “bue marino” in Italian. These caves were its last shelter before it went extinct.

You need to go there by boat, and departures are only from Cala Gonone.

There are 2 types of tours to visit the caves:

A full day cruise including stops at the coves and the cave (40€ + 9€ entrance fee to the cave)
A shuttle boat to the cave (about 25€ roundtrip with entrance fee to the cave included).

Some tour agencies also offer a visit to the cave with a beach break in Cala Luna. It’s up to you, depending on how long you plan to stay there.

There are only guided tours of the caves, starting every hour , and lasting about one hour. You’ll discover a large and beautiful limestone cave , including the candelabra hall and the mirrors hall.

Do you want to do a bit of hiking during your trip to Sardinia?

Then you should go to the Gorropu gorge. This gorge, one of the deeepest in Europe , is one of the most beautiful hiking spots in Sardinia!

It’s located not far from the Gulf of Orosei, and it’s accessible via the Dorgali-Arbatax road , also named SS125. This scenic road will allow you to enjoy beautiful views of the mountains along the way.

There are several hike departure points to go to the gorge.

One starts from the parking located close to the Silana Hotel , km 183 on the SS125 road.
Another is located on the Ponte Sa Barva , 15km away from Dorgali.

Either way, it’s at least a 4-5 hours hike.

Once you reach the entrance of the gorge, you’ll have to pay 5€ to get in . Then, you’ll be able to walk around and explore the canyon , with its huge limestone cliffs.

The last part of the canyon (the red path) is only allowed if you’re with a guide. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a lot of water with you!

For the way back , if you’re too tired, you can hop on a Jeep that will take you back to the parking lot for about 15€.

Remember though that it takes about one hour walking to get to the Jeeps.

Where to go in Sardinia to see magnificent beaches?

The answer is simple: everywhere!

Indeed, when you’re in Sardinia, you can take a beach break anytime and it won’t take you long to find the perfect beach. From small isolated coves to long sandy beaches filled with sun beds , there’s something for everyone.

I already mentioned plenty of beaches in this article, so here’s a recap of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Sardinia:

Su Giudeu beach on the Costa del Sud
Cala Lunga on Sant’Antioco island
Pelosa beach in Stintino
Li Cossi beach on the Costa Paradiso
Capocchia du Purpu beach on Maddalena island
Spiaggia del Principe (Prince’s beach) on the Costa Smeralda
All the beaches in the Gulf of Orosei

Of course there are hundreds of others beaches in Sardinia, so it would be impossible to give you a complete list… But I’ll soon share with you a full guide of the best beaches in Sardinia!

Tired of the beach and looking for alternative activities in Sardinia?

Why not cool down a bit and go visit cave?

Besides the Neptune caves and Bue Marino caves I talked about earlier, there are other interesting caves to visit in Sardinia.

Which caves to visit in Sardinia?

Su Marmuri cave: located close to Ulassai and Tortoli, the cave is 1km long and up to 50 meters high. It’s for sure one of the most impressive caves in Sardinia. The visit last about 1 hour and you’ll see many rock formations, some with surprising shapes. I loved it!
Ispinigoli cave: located in the area of Dorgali, close to the Gulf of Orosei. It’s worth going there to see the giant stalagmite, it’s more than 38 meters tall! You can only visit with a 45 minutes guided tour.
Is Zuddas cave: located 6km away from Santadi, it’s a beautiful cave with amazing crystals in the last hall. Allow about 1h for the guided tour.
Su Mannau cave: located close to Fluminimaggiore. The visit last 1 hour and you’ll see several indoor lakes.
San Giovanni cave: located 4 km away from Domusnovas, this small cave with stalactites and stalagmites is free to visit.

If you’re going to Sardinia, you should at least once eat at an agriturismo (a kind of farm stay), it’s the best place to taste authentic Sardinian cuisine!

A typical agriturismo menu includes:

Some antispati: a plate filled with cheese, cured meat + roasted and marinated vegetables such as eggplant or artichoke.
A primo piatto: usually a pasta dish. Some popular Sardinian specialties are the gnochetti (shell shaped pasta) and the culurgiones (a kind of cheese stuffed ravioli served with tomato sauce).
A secondo piatto: it can be meat or fish, served with a salad and vegetables. One Sardinian specialty is porceddu, a roasted suckling pig.
A dessert: the sebadas are the most common desserts. These are fried ricotta puff pastries topped with honey. It’s so delicious!
A digestive: It will often be a “mirto”, the most famous one.

Menus in agriturismos have fixed price, usually between 25€ and 30€ per person , drinks included (water + wine).

I can guarantee that you’re getting a great value for your money, because the portion are ultra generous! It’s hard to get to the end of the meal.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Sardinia, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sardinia? 😊

And you, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Sardinia?

Sardinia travel Guides

Buy the Lonely Planet Sardinia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
Buy the DK Eyewitness Sardinia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sardinia: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sardinia are listed here.

Alghero: The 6 best places to visit
Cagliari: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
Costa Smeralda: The definitive guide to plan your stay
Gulf of Orosei & Supramonte: The 10 best things to do
La Maddalena: All my best tips to visit the islands

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

3 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

4 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Discussion 2 comments.

Very informative! Thank you! Would you have a lists of agritourismi?

Thanks Carol! I’m glad my article helps you to plan your trip to Sardinia.

You can find a list of all the agriturismo’s restaurant with prices and localisation here: Agriturismo in Sardinia.

However, if you also want to book a room (not just the meal), you should not use the website I mentionned above. With the current situation, it’s better to go trought an international website like booking.com . Else you might not get refunded if your trip is canceled.

You can find all the info you need to prepare your trip to Sardinia such as itineraries and things do on the different parts of the island (Cagliari, Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena…) by clicking on this link: Destination Sardinia .

And if you need more help to organize your stay, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Enjoy your trip to Sardinia!

Other destinations

The Punic and Roman archaeological sites of 38.984685 9.01586 1 Nora and 39.8733 8.43972 2 Tharros

Geology and geography

Sardinia is the only region in Italy of Hercynian origin, and the southwest of the island is even older (Cambrian). The mineral riches of Sardinia are the consequence of heavy hydrothermalism during the Permo-Triassic. As in the rest of Hercynian Europe , erosion has taken its toll since the orogeny and has reduced elevations considerably. 30 million years ago, the Sardinia-Corsica block started to detach from mainland Spain and tilted toward its present position. The island is aseismic and non-volcanic.

Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea (24,090 km 2 [9300 sq mi]); only Sicily is larger. In addition to spectacular beaches, the island has many beautiful mountain vistas.

The island's interior is dominated by the Gennargentu Range, culminating at the highest elevation in Sardinia at the summit of Punta La Marmora, 1834 m [6017 ft]. This range also includes Monte Limbara, Monte di Ala', and Monte Rasu (all below 1500 m [4900 ft]). An independently formed range of hills, the Sulcis-Iglesiente, stretch across southwestern Sardinia. The highest hill peaks at 1236 m [4055 ft], and this range once gave life to large mining operations.

Plains are quite rare and generally small with two exceptions. The Campidano Plain is the largest flat area and reaches from Oristano to Cagliari, separating the Gennargentu from the Sulcis-Iglesiente. The second largest is Nurra Plain in the northwest between Sassari, Alghero, and Porto Torres, and the Nurra's erstwhile forests and mines have mostly made way for today's pastures.

Other notable features are the former marshes of Sulcis and Cagliari. Sulcis was a marshy area where malaria was still present in the 1940s but has been eradicated. Cagliari's outer neighborhoods sit upon flat and boggy land, and harvesting salt is a major industry there.

Coasts are generally rocky with many cliffs, especially along the eastern half. Despite the precipitous coastline, there are many large beaches all around the island. These exist between Logudoro and Gallura in the north; Teulada and Pula in the south; and at the tip of Sulcis-Iglesiente in the southwest. Apart from the Strait of Bonifacio (famed for its often rough sea) which divides Corsica from Sardinia, the surrounding sea is quite deep at short distances from the shore.

The population is small (a little more than 1,650,000 inhabitants in 2010) and heavily concentrated in Cagliari (one third of the total population) and Sassari (one fifth). Olbia is the only other town with a population exceeding 50,000 inhabitants. Other centres include Alghero, Nuoro, Santa Teresa Gallura, Oristano, Carbonia and Iglesias. Sardinia, along with the Valle d'Aosta region at the French border, has the lowest population density in Italy.

Sardinia enjoys for the most part a Mediterranean climate. It is however heavily influenced by the vicinity of the Gulf of Genoa (barometric low) and the relative proximity of the Atlantic Ocean. Sardinia being relatively large and hilly, weather is not uniform; in particular the east is drier, but paradoxically it suffers the worst rainstorms: in Autumn 2009, it rained more than 200 mm (8 inches) in a single day in Siniscola. The western coast is rainy even for modest elevations (for instance Iglesias, elevation 200 m, average annual precipitation 815 mm against 750 mm for London).

Summer is dry with very hot weather; however, contrary to the islands of Greece for instance, there is more vegetation providing shade. Autumn is typically warm (with averages of 20 °C [68 °F] and up for highs till late-November), but is subject to heavy rainstorms in some areas. Winter is mild on plains (cold spells being however not unheard of) but cool at higher elevations; snow is generally limited to the Gennargentu range. Spring is warm and can be rainy, but not as autumn. Some locations in the island can be very windy, especially from September to April (northwest winds locally called Maestrale ); southeast winds ( Scirocco ) are frequent during summer and bring invariably hot weather.

After all, the ancient Nuragic civilization of Sardinia of ca. 1500 BC, whose stone monuments still dot the land, predates even the Etruscan civilization in mainland Italy by several hundred years.

There are several must-see sites for the archaeology-minded tourist. The Nuragic cylindrical towers are called Nuraghes , sing. Nuraghe ). One of the largest of these Nuraghe is near Olbia and the Costa Smeralda. Other fortified villages can still be found, a great example of which is Barumini (Medio Campidano province). The Phoenicians arrived around 1000 BC and founded Cagliari (Karalis, ca 800 BC), Tharros (near Oristano), and Nora (near Pula, Cagliari province), and others. Sardinia was contested during the First Punic War between Carthage and Rome, but went eventually to the latter. Rome had often trouble dealing with the rebellious locals, but managed quite a large income out of grain and metal mining.

With the fall of the Roman Empire , heavy raiding of the coastal areas by Barbary pirates forced the population to the hinterland; Sassari for instance was founded by refugees from Porto Torres. The four Kingdoms ("Judgedoms" of Calaris [Cagliari], Arbaree [Arborea, Oristano], Torres [Sassari] and Gallura [Olbia-Tempio Pausania]) sprang forth during the Middle Ages, but were colonized (except for the Kingdom of Arborea) by Pisa and Genoa. The Pisans in particular, through the famous family of the Conte Ugolino della Gherardesca of Dante's Inferno , controlled the southernmost part of the island between 1200 and 1350. The Gherardesca family got a large income from the silver mines near Iglesias, which they themselves founded. The Aragonese crown (now part of the modern Spanish crown) began staking claims in the 1320s and proceeded to seize all of Sardinia, save Castelsardo, by the early 1400s. Until the early 1700s, the island was an integral part of the Spanish crown.

When Sardinia was ceded to the House of Savoy in 1720, the constitution of the Sardinia-Piedmont realm became the starting point for the unification of the Italian peninsula; however, Sardinia had separate (and generally worse) rights than those given to mainlanders until 1847, when it gained the same status as the mainland but paid the price of losing what little autonomy the island enjoyed. Following the French Revolution, the newly minted French Republic attempted to invade the island in 1793 but was repelled. Napoleon was there as an officer in one of the major invasion attempts. Despite French attempts to dominate the island, the Piedmontese Savoys manage to retain control and even used the island as a refuge when Napoleon swept through their homeland. After the Savoys got back to the mainland, Sardinia was once again left to its own devices, except for the exploitation of its ancient woodland and its large mineral resources. In the early 1900s, the fascist government carried out several works, particularly the reduction of marshy areas and the foundation of mainland colonies, like Fertilia and Arborea. In 1948 the unique socio-political context of the island was recognized by Rome, and Sardinia was granted a limited degree of administrative autonomy that retains to the present day. With the end of the exploitation of the mines, but with the fast growth of the tourist industry (especially in the Costa Smeralda ["Emerald Coast"] area), Sardinia is slowly converting itself into a popular tourist destination even though traditional stock-herding, especially of sheep, is still a frequent sight.

Tourist information

Sardinia Tourism website

As a rule of thumb: tourists should generally expect communication only in Italian.

Along with Italian ( Italiano ), Sardinians speak other languages. Sardinian ( Sardu ) is the indigenous language of the island and the most widely spoken as well after Italian. It is considered by many scholars to be one of the most Latin-like Romance languages. Sardinian is not a dialect and saying so is often perceived as an insult by its native speakers, whose numbers are becoming smaller and smaller by the day. Other languages include Gallurese, Catalan, and Ligurian. In Gallura and Sassari , Gallurese ( Gadduresu ) and ( Sassaresu ) are spoken.

Gallurese is very similar to Corsican whereas Sassarese is a transitional dialect between medieval Tuscan and Sardu. Alghero has a few speakers of an old Catalan dialect ( Alguerés ), and a Ligurian community on the southwest San Pietro Island speaks a dialect called Tabarchìn . Nowadays, many of the non-Italian languages are confined to the older generations as a direct consequence of the island-wide assimilation policies carried out by the once Savoyard and then Italian government. Nowadays, Sardinians are generally monolingual Italians with a peculiar accent. The young people don't even understand some basic Sardinian anymore; when addressing people they do not know, they usually use Italian, even if they recognize the other person as a fellow Sardinian. Because Italian is the only language they grow up in, English is not widely spoken, as well as Spanish and Catalan; the latter is not generally understood even in Alghero, which has been assimilated into Italian like the rest of the island.

The following budget airlines can get you there cheaply: Jet2.com , Wizz Air , Ryanair , Easyjet and Eurowings .

Three Sardinian commercial airports are close to the cities of Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero.

Aeroporto di Cagliari-Elmas (Cagliari Airport) ( CAG IATA ) is the busiest in Sardinia. Cagliari is served directly by domestic and international flights, while well-connected Milan-Linate and Rome-Fiumicino airports can also serve as intermediate stops to Cagliari.
Aeroporto di Olbia-Costa Smeralda (Olbia Airport) ( OLB IATA ) is the second busiest airport in Sardinia and the 17th in Italy; it is the gateway to the Costa Smeralda.
Aeroporto di Alghero (Alghero Airport) ( AHO IATA ) is the third busiest in Sardinia. It is 10.5 km northwest of Alghero.

There are ferry services to Cagliari (south coast), Porto Torres (north coast), and Olbia, Golfo Aranci and Arbatax (east coast).

Have a look at Ferriesonline or

sardina boat tour [ dead link ] , or the state-owned ferry service Tirrenia (year-round service) and the private companies Moby Lines , sardinia boar tour [ dead link ] , Grimaldi , Snav .

Daily ferries link northern Sardinia with Corsica (it is possible to take a day trip to Bonifacio , Corsica) from Santa Teresa Gallura .

The government of Sardinia runs SardegnaMobilità , a public transportation portal, which, among other things, provides a travel planner for the whole island and for journeys to the island.

Regular, cheap buses between the main centres: Cagliari , Sassari , Olbia , Santa Teresa Gallura , Alghero , Nuoro , etc. You may end up changing buses (or trains) in, for example, Macomér . Less frequent buses, but worth persevering for the smaller villages.

ARST is the main regional bus service provider on the island (check with their schedules , also mobile site [ dead link ] ). They also run urban buses in some location.

Tickets can be bought at the ARST stations, from the various sales outlets , ticket vending machines , or, if you have an Italian number, by a mobile phone. Tickets are also sold on board but with a surcharge (usually €1).

Trenitalia runs regular trains on the standard gauge tracks between Sassari , Olbia and Cagliari .

ARST also operates a few railway services on the narrow gauge lines: Alghero - Sassari -Sorso, Macomer- Nuoro , Monserrato (Cagliari)-Mandas- Isili . These trains can be not that fast, frequent and convenient. For example, the terminus in Alghero is at the quite of the edge of the centre. So, regional buses could be an alternative.

Trenino verde

In season, there are irregular tourist train services -- trenino verde -- scheduled on otherwise unused lines. For example, there's a small train that travels twice a week on the route Sassari-Tempio-Palau and back.

It is possible to get around Sardinia by bus and train, but if you can, hire a car. It is well worth the expense, and it will allow you to visit some of the more remote and enchanting places and areas. You may find many companies offering car hire like Hertz and Avis or Only Sardinia Autonoleggio.

Consult the article on Italy for general information about speed limits, urban areas, police forces, etc. What follows is specific to Sardinia.

There are no toll highways in the island, despite Google Maps stating otherwise. The major roads are Porto Torres-Sassari-Oristano-Cagliari (Strada Statale [State Road] 131, European denomination E25) and its bifurcation to Nuoro (SS131 d.c.n.), Iglesias-Cagliari (SS130) [the SS130 and SS131 are the only fully 2 x 2-lane roads in Sardinia], the SS125 (Cagliari-Villasimius), SS126 (Sant'Antioco-Carbonia-Iglesias-Guspini-Terralba), SS127 (Olbia-Tempio Pausania-Sassari), SS128 (East-Central Sardinia), SS129 (Orosei-Nuoro-Macomer), SS195 (Cagliari-SS126 through Pula), and the SS291 (Sassari-Alghero). Many other roads are also of great interest for the tourist, such as the SS133 (Tempio Pausania-Palau) or the Chia-Teulada 'panoramica'.

Many roads are narrow and wind through hilly terrain; be careful and do not hesitate to use your car horn to signal your presence: because of the light traffic, oncoming drivers may not expect to encounter other vehicles. Remember that locals know their roads: they can drive faster than you because of that, do not try to race with them! Beware also of farm animals (sheep, goat, cows, pigs) crossing roads in rural areas.

The condition of the major roads is largely good. There are local unpaved roads of touristic interest; these can be in any state, especially after heavy rains, so it is better to go there with a 4-wheel drive car.

Traffic can become heavy during summer in and around touristic areas, in particular on the SS 125, 126, 127, 195, 291.

A navigation app is a necessity because road signs are somewhat lacking, especially on secondary roads. Petrol stations are ubiquitous and usually have automated pumps open 24 hours. In the morning and afternoon, attendants may be available, whose services add an extra 20 cents per litre. Their pumps are clearly indicated.

Many villages have installed speed traps and automated cameras at the entrances: these are almost always signalled and fines for speeding are generally heavy. Otherwise, Italians rarely comply with posted speed limits. If you stick to the apeed limit in the right lane, they will happily merge around you. Quite often, you will drive through villages with no footpaths, so drive with caution.

Beware of the way locals drive: racing along the narrow and bendy roads in the hills. Also beware of high winds; gusts in excess of 100 km/h (60 mph) are common from September to April.

Sailing is one of the best ways to see Sardinia. Most charters offer many options from bareboat to crewed and cabin charter, with various types of boats being available.

At many places it is possible to rent a bike quite cheaply, for as little as €9 per 24 hours. Compared to the scarce local bus connections a bicycle provides great flexibility for local exploration. With high quality roads and great scenery the bike is very pleasant to ride.

There is much to do in Sardinia, but the island will probably appeal more to nature lovers than to clubbers (with the exception of the Costa Smeralda area, one of the 'hot spots' of the Italian show-business jet set).

Sailing has become increasingly popular, in particular in the Costa Smeralda area; the first Italian challenge in the America's Cup hailed from there. There are many ports everywhere, and some places are reachable only by boat. Do not miss this opportunity if you like to sail.

While not many, the islands are generally of interest; check in particular the Asinara National Park (famous for its Albino Donkeys) and the Maddalena archipelago in the north, the islands of Sant'Antioco (actually connected to the mainland since Roman times) and San Pietro (a community of Genoese fishermen) in the south.

Beaches and coasts

The north and northeast (from Stintino to Budoni) have many beautiful beaches . The Eastern coast is also very interesting: Cala Gonone, Arbatax, Muravera and Villasimius. The deep south (Chia, Pula) is quickly growing as a major tourist attraction. The western coast is of a very different character; large beaches some kilometres long can be found (Porto Pino, Marina di Gonnesa, Marina di Arbus). Of note is Piscinas (Marina di Arbus) with its 60 m (200 ft) tall sand dunes. Finally, the Alghero area is renowned for its underwater caves and grottoes and attracts many scuba divers .

Hills and 'mountains'

While Sardinia's highest elevation does not reach 2,000 m (6,600 ft) , do not be fooled: the terrain is steep, snow falls in winter, and there are 4 ski resorts in the Gennargentu area. Hills are everywhere in Sardinia, from the northeastern Monte Limbara Range to the Iglesiente area in the southwest, even on the outskirts of Cagliari. The rainiest areas are quite lush with Mediterranean vegetation. Another advantage is that people (including Sardinians) generally fill the beaches and leave the rest nearly deserted. A popular destination for mountain climbers is the Domusnovas area (close to Iglesias), with its nice vertical walls of limestone. Large caves are accessible (Dorgali, Oliena, Santadi, Domusnovas, Fluminimaggiore, Alghero). There are many hiking trails (though not always well-signalled) for beginners and veterans alike.

Monuments and sites

Sardinia has few monuments but many are well worth visiting. Check-in particular Cagliari (Sard. Casteddu , Castle), Oristano, Sassari, Alghero, Olbia, and Nuoro. Nuraghi and Domus de janas (Sard. for witch houses) are found in many places, in particular in Barumini ( Su Nuraxi , in the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1997) and around Alghero. Tharros, Nora, and Monte Sirai (just off Carbonia) are fine examples of the Phoenician/Carthaginian presence. Roman remains are also found in Sardinia, among which Nora, the Sant'Antioco bridge or the amphitheatre in Cagliari; the Antas site in Fluminimaggiore is also of interest, even if the present temple is a reconstruction of the original.

Pisans have left important traces in the South (Cagliari, Iglesias) and the well-preserved Castello di Acquafredda (It. for cold water castle) near Siliqua is worth a visit, as is the backcountry. Bosa is of interest for its medieval urbanism; Burgos (Castle of Goceano) is also worth a visit. Some fine churches are found on the island, from the early Christian times to the Baroque period, in the aforementioned cities but also in Porto Torres and Iglesias (Spanish for church). Examples of industrial architecture can also be found in and around Cagliari, in Porto Torres, and in the Sulcis-Iglesiente area, where organized tours can be booked to visit mines, for instance, the Buggerru mines with galleries just above the sea. Finally, several museums dedicated to Sardinia are of interest; the Museo Sardo di antropologia ed etnografia and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale in Cagliari, and the Museo etnografico sardo in Nuoro are important starting places.

Sardinia has strong traditions which are expressed also through costumes and celebrations . Quite often, even small centres have local celebrations where people dress in rich traditional costumes. However, it is simpler to go to the major venues as there is a considerable afflux from all over Sardinia. These include:

Sant'Efisio (Cagliari, 1 May, actually lasts several days)
Sagra del Redentore (Nuoro, last Sunday of August)
Cavalcata sarda (Sassari, penultimate Sunday of May, horse parade and races)
Faradda di li candareri (Sassari, 14 August)
Sa Sartiglia (Oristano, Carnival period, horse races)
S'ardia (Sedilo, 6 July, horse races) and everywhere the celebrations during Carnival and the Holy Week.

The traditions and habits are very strong. You will not get any pizzas in restaurants before 19:00, and you will get nothing to eat in restaurants between 16:00 and 19:00, besides 'panini' that is usually a cold sandwich with ham and cheese. The exception may be some tourist-oriented restaurants in tourist-oriented places.

Pizza and Pasta . There are pizzerias serving fresh, stone oven-baked authentic style pizzas and pasta dishes. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Porcheddu . A local specialty of inner Sardinia, it's a young pig roasted in a special manner over a wood fire with an aromatic local shrub called mirto. The pig is frequently basted. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Salsiccia di cinghiale . The wild boar sausage. There are many other types of sausage too. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Stufato di Capretto . A rich casserole made from kid goat, artichokes, wine and also egg. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Su Zimminu ( aka Zuppa alla Maddalenina ). A spicy seafood soup typical for Maddalena archipelago. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Mediterranean fish ( Pesce Azzurro ). Look for a fish market in any small coast town and buy early in the morning, cook and eat: it's simply fantastic barbecued. The Bottarga (the dried roe of tuna [Bottarga di tonno] in Carloforte or of flathead mullet [Bottarga di muggine] elsewhere) is rather expensive but quite good. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Fruit and Vegetables . Many locally-produced fruit and vegetables are very tasty, as they are grown in small farms and are mostly organic; vendors along the roads are a frequent sight. Apart from the usual assortment of typical Mediterranean products (such as eggplants, bell peppers, orange, and grapes), you will also find among others wild asparagus, figs, water-melons, and nuts (hazelnuts, chestnuts, walnuts, almonds). Spices (such as thyme, rosemary, fennel) are found in abundance in the country. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Fainé . Pancakes made of chickpea flour. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Sardinian bread and pastries . There are numerous types of these, with specialties such as Carasau (a type of thin crispy bread), sponge biscuits and almond pastries. What distinguishes Sardinian pastry is the use of pig lard for fat and honey for sugar. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Torrone . Sardinian version of nougat with honey instead of sugar, and almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts (all locally produced); the torrone capital of Sardinia is Tonara (Nuoro province): just going there is worth your time. ( updated Dec 2018 )

Beer is the most common alcoholic drink among Sardinians; in fact, Sardinia has the highest consumption of beer in all of Italy.

Cannonau . A strong red wine from the Sardinian variety of Garnacha (Grenache) grapes. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Monica di Sardegna . A lighter, more accessible red wine. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Vermentino di Sardegna . A light wine with a strong minerally taste. ( updated Dec 2018 )
Fil'e ferru . Another alcoholic local speciality. Its name means "iron wire" because in the 19th century it was clandestinely distilled and hidden in small holes covered with soil. Only a small iron wire came out from the soil, to remember where the bottles were hidden. The original name in Sardinian language is abbardente , that means "blazing water" ( Fil'e ferru is in Sardinian too, but it's used more by non Sardinian-speakers). ( updated Dec 2018 )

While you can find most major hotel chains in Sardinia, the better way to really enjoy a stay in the island is to find a local hotel or a bed and breakfast or a holiday apartment. Another often cheaper option that adds many 'out of town' locations is to rent a small cabin in a camping village or a room in an 'agriturismo' farm or rural cottage. Most accommodations are located near the coast, but also internal regions offer great opportunities.

Stay healthy

Sardinia is part of the Mediterranean area and shares its specific hazards. A few basic precautions are generally enough to stay out of trouble, especially during summer and autumn.

Sardinia is sparsely populated, in particular the interior; help is not always easily found, and there remain large patches of land where mobile-phone coverage is non-existent (e.g. at the bottom of sheltered valleys). Terrain, despite the lack of high elevations, is generally rugged and steep; this, in combination with heat and lack of water, can quickly lead to disaster. Beware!

Summer is hot and the sun quite strong; the usual precautions to avoid heatstroke and sunburns apply. From May to September, water scarcity in the country is a serious problem. Always take a lot of water with you (especially so when hiking), even if you plan a short trip; bringing along fresh watery fruit (such as peaches) is also helpful. While tap water is generally (but not always) safe, it is recommended to buy bottled mineral water; remember that sweating implies loss of water and of mineral salts.

Autumn is generally fine, but heavy rainstorms combined with hilly topography can potentially create land- and mud-slides. Always check the weather before embarking on a trip, even with your car. Winter and spring are generally safer, with pleasantly mild weather (especially during the day) and an abundance of water; but remember that higher elevations correspond to colder temperatures and heavier precipitation. Much of Sardinia (especially the Western part) is very windy from September to April; all drivers, and in particular those with campers, must exercise caution.

Some open-sea beaches are notorious for strong underwater currents (in particular on the west coast); warning signs are not always posted. Ask at your hotel or locals. The Mediterranean Sea is no lily pond; every year, there are several people killed by drowning in Sardinia, and regularly victims are imprudent persons dragged from the shore by large waves.

Be careful when hiking in old mining districts (Sulcis-Iglesiente, Sarrabus, Nurra). While local authorities have sealed off many dangerous areas, some remain unmarked. Always avoid dark galleries, because they might hide vertical ventilation shafts. Do not venture into closed areas (look for the word Pericolo [Danger] or the usual warning signs). If you want to explore mines, go to the local tourist information agencies; they will direct you to organized tours. There have been tales of individuals (mostly ex-mineworkers) running their own private tours; avoid these, as they are illegal and extremely unsafe, because of risks of cave-ins, water infiltration, etc.

Local fauna and flora can be dangerous or source of discomfort:

Ticks ( Rhipicephalus sanguineus ) carry infectious diseases and are endemic to certain areas: avoid tall grass fields or close prolonged contact with domesticated animals (in particular sheep).
Lethal mushrooms (among which Amanita phalloides ) are found in the island.

Consult specialized texts for expert advice .

Sardinia has a very low crime rate.

Be wary of game hunters during the September–February period; check with locals, hotel employees, and the website of the Sardinian Region for legal hunting dates. Do not hike in the wilderness during these days. There are protected areas (It. Oasi di protezione della fauna) but even these are regularly raided by poachers, especially during the night.

From April/May to September, fires plague Sardinia as the rest of the Mediterranean area; some are spontaneous wildfires, but most are criminal. Observe the usual precautions. It is generally forbidden to start domestic fires in forests. Check with local authorities; Sardinia is an autonomous region and Italian laws might be superseded by local provisions.

Sardinians are generally a quiet and reserved people, especially those from the interior where they are, more than the other islanders, deeply attached to their land and culture; surely they may prove to be different from the archetype of the outgoing and talkative Mediterranean.

You can consider visiting Corsica , which is right next to Sardinia. Bear in mind that the island is a part of France , not Italy . Your Schengen visa (if you are required to get one, that is) will allow you to cross through without any problems.

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The 11 Best Things to Do in Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia (Sardegna in Italian) is Italy’s second-largest island after Sicily. With a rocky coastline interrupted only by sublime beaches of turquoise, cobalt, and cerulean water, it’s a vacanza da sogno (dream vacation) for Italian mainlanders. Yet, for most non-European travelers, it’s still an undiscovered gem.

Beyond its stunning beaches, Sardinia yields a ruggedly scenic interior, archaeological sites that predate Rome by thousands of years, world-class museums, cities with well-preserved historical cores, and traditional culture and folkways that may make you forget you’re still in Italy. Here are some top things to see and do on this Mediterranean island of wonders.

Drive Along Sardinia's Most Beautiful Highway

Francesco Bergamaschi / robertharding / Getty Images

You'll need a car to explore the best parts of Sardinia fully, so make the most of your vehicle and drive along the scenic SP71. Italy designates its national scenic byways as strada panoramica , and the SP71 highway along the southernmost tip of Sardinia is a detour worth taking.

Drive about 45 minutes south of Cagliari's capital city, and you'll see a turnoff for the SP71 toward the town of Chia. The scenic road is only about 16 miles long, but you should set aside at least a couple of hours to complete it, giving yourself plenty of time to stop along the way. Stop at any of the coves along the route for an intimate time at the beach, and follow signs for the Faro Capo Spartivento for a short hike to a lighthouse with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Discover the Colorful Town of Bosa

If you wish you could experience the beauty of Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast without the hoards of tourists, then Bosa is the place for you. This seaside town features colorful houses and rolling hills as the more well-known destinations on the mainland. Still, because of Bosa's relative remoteness, you won't see many non-Italians there. The pastel-colored houses against the water look like real-life postcards, and you can climb to the top of the Castle of Serravalle for a panoramic view of the whole town. It's about a two-hour drive north from Cagliari, but it brings you closer to all other gems in the island's northern part.

Explore Cagliari’s Castello Neighborhood

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You'll likely start your trip in Cagliari , Sardinia's capital and most populous city with over 5,000 years of history. The walls of its imposing hilltop citadel are narrow, winding medieval streets; a comprehensive archaeological museum ; defensive towers (some of which can be climbed for knockout views of the coast); and the ornate 13th-century Duomo di Cagliari. Roman and Carthaginian ruins are a short walk outside the old city walls. Add in a few pit stops in the area's cozy bars, restaurants, and shops, and you've got an excellent way to spend an afternoon and evening.

Get Posh on the Costa Smeralda

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Sardinia’s “Emerald Coast” rivals the French Riviera as an undisputed playground for Europe’s rich and famous, with a large number of Russian oligarchs and their mega-yachts thrown in for good measure. The summertime action centers around Porto Cervo, home to breathtakingly expensive waterfront villas; bronzed, beautiful statues; all-night discos; and encamped paparazzi hoping to catch the latest peccadillo of some Italian politician or film star. This is the place to visit if you want to vacation like a celebrity.

Plumb the Mysteries of Nuragic Culture at Barumini

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From around 1500 BCE to the Punic Wars in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, the Nuragic peoples were the dominant culture on the island. They left behind more than 7,000 nuraghi , beehive-shaped stone fortresses surrounded by smaller hive-shaped buildings and, often, a defensive wall. The best example of an extensive Nuragic village is Su Nuraxi at Barumini , a UNESCO World Heritage site about one hour north of Cagliari.

Ride a Gommone in the Golfo di Orosei

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The “hidden” beaches, coves, and grottoes of the Golfo di Orosei on the island’s central-east coast are some of the most spectacular scenery in the Mediterranean. The best way to reach them is by gommone , or zodiac raft, which can be hired at either Cala Gonone or Marina di Orosei. You might see dolphins frolicking in the raft’s wake, and you’ll stop at several different beaches to swim in waters so clear and blue they defy superlatives.

Walk Alghero’s Seafront and Descend Into Neptune’s Grotto

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On the northwest coast, Alghero’s 13th- to 16th-century seaside ramparts face Spain and speak to its past as vassalage of the Crown of Aragon—an ever-shrinking percent of the population still speaks Algherese Catalan, a dialect more closely related to Spanish than Italian. Explore Alghero’s pretty, well-preserved centro before heading to Neptune’s Grotto (Grotto di Nettuno) , a great stalactite sea cavern reachable by boat or via a 654-step rock-cut staircase.

Discover Sardo Traditions in Nuoro

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In the rugged, mountainous interior, the city of Nuoro and its surrounding province preserve indigenous Sardinian folkways, from sheepherding to traditional costume, music, dance, and rituals.

Nuoro’s excellent ethnographic museum attempts to sort it all out, but it is best experienced in smaller towns like Mamoiada, Oliena, or Orgosolo, which is famous for its contemporary murals. The region has some of the island’s best hiking with nuraghi , prehistoric tombs, springs, and caves dotting the rocky landscape, plus plenty of random sheep, donkeys, and goats.

Sample Cannonau, Bottarga and Carasau

Like every region of Italy, Sardinia is proud of its food and wine. Don’t leave without trying cannonau, a hearty red wine made from grenache grapes, or vermentino, an acidic, citrusy white. Thin, crispy carasau bread is on every restaurant table, and some variation of spaghetti alla bottarga (made with mullet roe) is on every menu. If fish eggs aren’t for you, try culurgiones , pasta pockets stuffed with potato and ricotta. Sardinian cheeses swing heavily towards sharp pecorino or, for the daring, casu marzu, a sheep’s cheese with live maggots. Finish your meal with a glass of sweet mirto , a liqueur made from myrtle berries.

Visit the Seaside Ruins of Nora or Tharros

The ancients valued waterfront property just as much as we do now, and the archaeological sites of Tharros, near Oristano, and Nora, near Cagliari, attest to this. The cities date to at least 1,000 BCE and were inhabited over time by Nuragic peoples, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans, all of whom left their marks. Both sites are partially underwater. You may see colonies of pink flamingos near Nora. Just outside Tharros, stop at the exquisite 6th-century Church of San Giovanni di Sinis, one of the oldest on the island.

Get Away From It all on Asinara

If the summer beach crowds get to be too much, island-hop to Asinara National Park , northwest of Porto Torres. There are a few accessible beaches, plus hiking, bike rentals, and bird watching. You can even arrange to sleep at the one basic hotel within the park . Try to spot one of the albino donkeys indigenous to the island, as well as feral horses, goats, pigs, and maybe even the occasional mouflon, a wild, horned sheep. Access to the island and park is limited, so you’ll need to book passage with an authorized boating company.

Khan Academy. "Nuragic Architecture at Su Nuraxi Barumini, Sardinia." Retrieved April 15, 2021

What to see in Sardinia

15 Places to see in Sardinia

Sardinia is well-known as a paradise in the heart of the Mediterranean. Obviously, its sunny coasts and its white and sandy beaches are the main tourist attractions, but there is a endless list of places and facets to discover in Sardinia. We are talking about the most renowned towns and cities, the most characteristic islands and, of course, important sites of historical and cultural interest. In this short guide you will find some suggestions on what to see in Sardinia during your next holidays: 15 ideas that might tempt you and, perhaps, guide you in choosing your next destination. They are all ideal for a stay as a couple or for a family holiday in Sardinia , although some excursions might prove rather tiring for the tiny tots.

1) Giara of Gesturi and Nuraghe of Barumini

The Giara, located in the center-east of Sardinia, hosts a rare herd existing in Italy and in Europe of little wild horses and a park with cork oaks forests and Mediterranean maquis. This area is well known also for its archaeological monuments such as the famous Barumini nuraghe , so called “Su Nuraxi” declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The nuraghes are defensive towers to be found throughout the island, marked by their truncated cone shape and built with great blocks of roughly hewn stone, using the dry-stone technique. The nuraghi are defensive towers found throughout the island and are marked by their truncated cone shape; they are constructed in huge stone blocks according to the dry stone technique.

Where to sleep in Central Sardinia?

Antica Locanda Lunetta , Mandas The historical centre of Mandas and the welcoming and nice atmosphere of the Antica Locanda Lunetta are perfect for a romantic escape. Privacy and relax will allow you to take a break from the daily routine.

Giara of Gesturi and Nuraghe of Barumini

2) Maddalena Archipelago

Consisting of 7 major islands, Maddalena Archipelago is another Unesco World heritage (declared in 1994) of Sardinia. Its waters are clear and clean, and each year welcome snorkelling buffs in search of the unspoilt seabed of the Mediterranean. Full day or half day boat excursions are organized: they allow you to visit some small beaches and coves only reachable by boat, whose nature is still preserved and whose beauty is breathtaking. These tours usually include visits to the Island of Spargi; Budelli, where you can admire the famous pink beach; S.Maria; Caprera and finally La Maddalena. Alternatively you can rent a car on the Island of La Maddalena for an independent and adventurous tour of the local beaches. Lovers of pure and pristine sea can choose to stay at the 5-star Grand Hotel Ma&Ma , in the south-west coast of the island, at 350 meters far from the sea. Otherwise, for a more private and secluded stay, La Casitta is the right choice. Offering a familiar and attentive service, it is one of the few villas in the small island of Santa Maria.

Where to sleep?

Grand Hotel Ma&Ma ***** L , La Maddalena Located in the island of La Maddalena, the Grand Hotel Ma&Ma is the perfect choice for lovers of pure and uncontaminated sea. A few kilometers separate the hotel from the city center, which offers a wide selection of typical restaurants.
La Casitta , Isola di Santa Maria Owners of a private island? Not a dream! La Casitta is one of the few villas in Santa Maria Island, where you can discover the true contact with nature and choose every day a secluded cove where lounging and free your mind of all thoughts.

Discover all the hotels in the Archipelago of La Maddalena >

3) Chia beaches

Dominated by the homonym tower , visible by all its beaches, Chia owes its popularity to the transparency of its waters, which bathe the coast of Chia for about6 Km. In Chia area you can also visit the archaeological site of Nora, of punic origins, considered the most ancient village of Sardinia. Chia area reaches Capo Spartivento, the second most southern point of Sardinia, where is located the spectacular Faro di Capo Spartivento , a lighthouse – still working - turned into luxury Guesthouse .

Chia Laguna , Baia di Chia The Chia Laguna, part of the Italian Hospitality Collection, has been awarded as "Best Family Resort in the Mediterranean" with the World Travel Award 2014; "Italy's Leading Family Resort" and "Seven Stars Family Resort" 2018 and 2019.
Hotel Aquadulci **** , Su Giudeu Small, charming hotel, furnished with taste and with sunny and relaxing colours. Hotel Aquadulci is suitable for couples of all ages and for families and beach lovers who appreciate the simplicity.
Faro Capo Spartivento ***** , Capo Spartivento Surrounded by a still wild and unspoiled nature, where the Mediterranean scrub grows with its splendid colours and scents, the Lighthouse stands on a cliff overlooking the sea. The right choice to really enjoy the silence of nature and take time for oneself.

Discover all the hotels in Chia >

4) Gulf Of Orosei

The Gulf of Orosei, in central-eastern Sardinia is one of the most beautiful spot in Sardinia. Famous for the Bue Marino Caves , made of stalactites and stalagmites that reflects in the water giving us amazing trick of the light. There are some countries along the coast known for their gastronomic products, handicrafts and archaeological areas such as Tiscali and Serra Orrios , the karst area called Supramonte , the forests of Suttaterra and Ghivine on the sea slopes of Supramonte; the Cedrino river ; the canyon of Su Gorroppu , the deepest one in Sardinia and one of the deepest in Europe, finally you can enjoy a spectacular seascape (Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, Cala Goloritzè, Cala Biriola, Cala Fuili, Cala Luna).

Hotel Nascar **** , Santa Maria Navarrese The Hotel Nascar is located in the beautiful and wild region of Ogliastra, among the crystal clear sea and mountains. It is suitable for travellers looking for a familiar, genuine and warm atmosphere, away from crowds and urban life.
Nicolaus Club Torre Moresca **** , Orosei Set in a thick pinewood, just a short distance from the beautiful beach of Cala Ginepro, the Nicolaus Club Torre Moresca is a welcoming 4-star hotel, which offers interiors in pleasing traditional style, and finely designed and landscaped external areas.
Lanthia Resort **** , Santa Maria Navarrese Located in the beautiful and still largely unspoiled region of Ogliastra, the Lanthia Resort is located in the town of Santa Maria Navarrese, very quiet and popular summer resort.

Discover all the hotels in Orosei >

Situated on the north west coast, Alghero still shows traces of its Catalan past, whose use has been preserved in the variant of the “algherese” , and spoken nowadays in a small percentage. The town boasts a striking Gothic-style historic center with the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Guillot Palace and the 14th-century Church of San Francesco, the Coral Museum and a long natural bay overlooking the emerald sea.

Villa Mosca Charming House , Alghero Just a short distance from the historic centre of Alghero, the Hotel Villa Mosca is a fine historic residence looking out over the shore. It offers stylish accommodation, and its ambience is both classy and welcoming.
Villa Las Tronas ***** , Alghero With its enviable location on the sea close to the old town, Villa Las Tronas is the ideal choice for those who wish to discover the sea, the surrounding area, the characteristic alleys of the old town.
Corte Rosada Couples Resort and SPA , Alghero The Corte Rosada is a Boutique Hotel that has been completely restored, with new furnishings and update technologies and services.

Discover all the hotels in Alghero >

Situated on the north west coast, it has the romantic charm of the river cities and a lot of traditions still alive. The historic district of the city worthwhile to visit, made by colorful houses that climb the hill on the side. The top of the hill is dominated by the Malaspina Castle, so called by the Tuscan family who built it up in the XII century. The Castle can be seen from the historic Ponte Vecchio of Bosa , considered one of the 30 most beautiful bridges in Italy.

Where to sleep in Bosa?

Corte Fiorita *** , Bosa Corte Fiorita is located in the romantic town of Bosa, crossed by the Temo, the only navigable river in Sardinia. It is a “Albergo diffuso”, a hotel split into different buildings in the old town of Bosa. It is suggested to travellers looking for a quiet stay in a small but nice town, near the beach.

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7) Neptune Caves

The most popular caves of Sardinia find in Alghero and are dedicated to the sea God Neptune . They extend for some 6 km and have been dug out over thousands of years by freshwater. They are both reachable via ferry boat and through a 600 steps staircase, offering stunning views over the sea and the coast.

Bienestar Maison de Charme *** , Alghero Perfectly set in the city center, this B&B combines the fascination of a historic residence with the freshness of unobtrusive service and great attention to detail. We recommend Bienestar to those who prefer small hotels, with a stylish welcoming ambience.

8) Murales of Orgosolo and Mamoiada Museum

Mamoiada and Orgosolo are two traditional Sardinian places located in the heart of the island, the region called Barbagia, in the Province of Nuoro. Orgosolo is well-known for its wonderful Murales (about 150), while Mamoiada for its traditional carnival masks: you can discover all them and much more visiting the Mediterranean masks museum of the town.

Where to sleep in Barbagia?

Hotel Su Gologone **** , Oliena Tourism icon of Sardinia, Su Gologone Hotel is an artistic and culinary laboratory, where the continuous details refinement, both in furnishing and in food, gives the opportunity to live unique experiences to those who choose this heaven of Charme.

9) Carloforte

It has about 6.400 inhabitants and is the only municipality of the Island of S. Pietro, in the south-western coast of Sardinia. A quiet and lovely place , with small pretty beaches and charming narrow streets, a own dialect which is a variant of Ligurian language, testimony of its history, unique in Sardinia.

Where to sleep in Carloforte?

Hotel Riviera **** , Carloforte Right next to the port and the historic centre of Carloforte, the Hotel Riviera offers guests the possibility of accessing all the services and restaurants of this small island town.

10) Bastion of Saint Remy, Cagliari

Overlooking the city is the ancient area of Castello , a fortified medieval hilltop neighborhood situated uphill from the rest of the city. Also really important are the historical neighborhoods of Stampace (area of bourgeois and merchant), the Marina (area of fishermen and sailors) and Villanova (area of shepherds and farmers). The Bastion of Saint Remy is one of the symbols of the city, situated in the area of Castello, from its terrace you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the underlying charming marina. Among the attractions: the Cathedral of Cagliari of the XIII century, the National Archaeological Museum which exhibits artefacts from the Nuragic Age to the Byzantine era, Roman ceramics and also you can’t miss The Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria. Among the archaeological sites worthy of note are the Roman Amphitheater and finally the Poetto, the beach of the city that stretches for about 8 kilometers, starting from the panoramic promontory of La Sella del Diavolo .

La Villa del Mare , Lungomare Poetto Villa del Mare faces Poetto beach, boasts the salty tang of the sea and a panoramic view of Golfo degli Angeli. The beach is popular all the year round, fully equipped for a morning stay and perfect for a walk in the evening with background live music from the historical kiosks.
T Hotel **** s , Cagliari Situated in a central area, not far from the historic centre, the Thotel is the ideal venue for guests seeking a modern, comfortable ambience, a spa, an excellent restaurant and with all the city’s main attractions accessible either on foot or with a short car trip.
Palazzo Doglio ***** , Cagliari Luxury hotel in the heart of Cagliari, very close to the historic centre and a few km from Poetto beach. Recommended for business or leisure stays, it combines the functionality of a business hotel with the comfort of a city holiday, thanks to its location and the services offered.

Discover all the hotels in Cagliari >

11) Castelsardo

The town of Castelsardo is a charming medieval village included among “ The most beautiful villages in Italy ”. From the top of Doria Castle, which dominates the town, you will enjoy exciting views over the gulf of Asinara.

Where to sleep in Castelsardo?

Hotel Bajaloglia Resort **** , Castelsardo One of the highlights of the Hotel Bajaloglia Resort is the scenic location and the consequent tranquility: a hotel full of charm furnished with style, on top of a hill. Castelsardo is a few kilometers away and is easily accessible by car.

12) Villasimius

One of the most favorite towns in the South of Sardinia popular for its renowned resorts and long white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, coves and a landscape covered in the Mediterranean scrub. Villasimius doubles its population in the summer time. Among the most beautiful beaches you will have Porto sa Ruxi, Campus and Campulongu, La Spiaggia del Riso (so called just because of the "beans" that make it up), Cala Caterina, the enchanting Porto Giunco, the wonderful Punta Molentis and the pink flamingos flying above the blue and clear sea of this miraculous seaside pearl of South Sardinia .

Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi ***** , Villasimius A historical icon of Sardinian hospitality, the stylish renovation goes hand in hand with the high quality of the services on offer, allowing the resort to take up a top position among Sardinia’s family-oriented hotels. The spectacular location makes the resort truly unique.
Hotel Cala Caterina **** , Villasimius A small romantic hotel for those who are in search of total relaxation. Both singles or couples who want to take a rest from a winter of hard work, will find in Hotel Cala Caterina their second home. The private park that leads to the sea will be for them the perfect place to read a book or relax.
Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna ***** , Villasimius Located in front of one of the most famous Sardinian stretches of fine white sand, we recommend the hotel to sea lovers and families, but also to those who want to discover the many treatments offered by one of the most famous Thalasso centres of the Mediterranean.

Discover all the hotels in Villasimius >

13) Island of Tavolara - Capo Coda Cavallo

C apo Coda Cavallo , in north-eastern Sardinia - Gallura , is a promontory of granite land jutting above coastline in a stretch of sea sheltered by the majestic island of Tavolara , the rocks of Molara and the isle of Proratora. It is a 15,000 hectares of protected marine area, that has conserved its environmental heritage and the fish fauna due to the difficulties in reaching the place. The protected natural marine area of Punta Coda Cavallo is composed of many inlets with cliffs and sandy beaches immersed in the Mediterranean scrub that releases intense aromas; worth to see the beach of La Cinta developing for about 5 kilometers with a very white sand. The marine area of Tavolara-Capo Coda Cavallo is ideal for diving.

Hotel Don Diego **** , Porto San Paolo Only a few steps away from a nice, little sandy beach with spectacular panoramic view on the island Tavolara, the hotel is ideal for couples of each age and also families as well guests do appreciate the unique position and vicinity to San Teodoro.
CalaCuncheddi **** , Olbia We recommend this hotel to couples who are looking for a place to get away from the hustle. Here you will find a very elegant setting, an excellent service and a cuisine of the high level. The distance to the sea is only a short walk and the view of the bay is spectacular.

Discover all the hotels in Northern Sardinia >

14) Sinis peninsula - Tharros

The ancient settlement of Tharros is situated at the southern edge of the Sinis peninsula . Founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century B.C. near a pre-existing nuragic village from the Bronze Age, it suffered under Carthaginian first then Roman dominations, and finally fell under the Vandals and the Byzantines dominations. A gradual decay led to the abandonment of the site around the year 1050 A.D. The area is like an open-air museum that stands overlooking the sea: ancient streets, houses, shops from the Roman era, the temple and the necropolis are among the ruins that the Sinis Peninsula offers us. You can also visit the small early Christian church of San Giovanni situated nearby Tharros village.

Where to sleep in the Sinis region?

Is Arenas Resort ***** , Narbolia A modern and elegant 5-star hotel, a perfect choice for nature lovers, due to its unique location, embedded in a big pine forest. They will find here the right spot, just a few hundred meters from a wild sea-coast and few kilometres from very interesting archaeological sites.
Is Benas Country Lodge **** , Putzu Idu Small, charming hotel nestled in the vast plain of Oristano. The few rooms and the relaxing setting make it ideal for couples of all ages looking for contact with nature, who love to organize every day a trip to discover the surroundings.
Hotel Lucrezia *** , Riola Sardo Antique flavours and details, small touches of modernity wisely embellish the pretty and refined design of Hotel Lucrezia. Ideal for dynamic travellers of all ages, who desire to discover the thousand secrets of Sardinia.

15) Costa Verde - Marina di Arbus

In the South-West of Sardinia , among mounts and shrubs shaped by the wind, in the wildest and most isolated Sardinia, an imposing coastline develops for about 47 kilometers: this is the mighty Costa Verde. A succession of pristine beaches such as Piscinas – with the highest sand dunes in Europe – cliffs that burst deep into a green waters sea, so loved by the most daring surfers. You will be amazed by the fantastic sunsets along this coast, where your eyes get lost in a strong elation for the sky turning into pink. Marina di Arbus is not just about the sea: there is the declared archaeological mining site of Montevecchio and also Bugerru, Ingurtosu plus the one of Porto Flavia in Masua. You can’t miss the sea stacks of Pan di Zucchero and the defensive Tower of Torre dei Corsari . In the village of Arbus you’ll find the Knife Museum, which has the heaviest flick-knife in the world.

Where to sleep in Costa Verde?

Le Dune Piscinas **** , Arbus The wildlife here is the queen. The golden dunes of sand, junipers and miles of deserted beaches make this place similar to Africa. Le Dune Piscinas is recommended for travellers who are looking for a unique experience with nature.

Sardinia is an ideal holiday destination thanks to its splendid beaches and great historical, cultural and natural heritage. Visitors can cross the island from the North (Santa Teresa di Gallura) to the South (Chia) by car in 5 hours, taking the cross-island highway known as the “Carlo Felice”. The ideal is to concentrate on those localities near your accommodation – don’t miss at least one of the following.

The best ancient hamlets of Sardinia are:

Castelsardo
Tempio Pausania

The best archaeological sites in Sardinia are:

The Nuragic village of Su Nuraxi (Barumini)
The ruins of Tharros , a coastal town founded by the Phoenicians, near Oristano
The Sacred Well of Santa Cristina
The archaeological complex of Pranu Muttedu, with the highest concentration of menhirs and megaliths on the island
The petrified forest of Martis

The best beaches in Sardinia are:

Cala Mariolu - Punta Ispulgi - Baunei - Ogliastra
Cala Spinosa - Santa Teresa Gallura – Olbia-Tempio
Cala Coticcio - Isola di Caprera – Olbia-Tempio
Tuerredda - Teulada – Cagliari
La Pelosa - Stintino – Sassari
Solanas - Sinnai – Cagliari
Scoglio di Peppino - Castiadas – Cagliari
Rena Majori- località Rena Majore, Aglientu – Olbia-Tempio
Cala Goloritzé - Baunei – Ogliastra
Cala Domestica - Buggerru – Carbonia-Iglesias
Su Giudeu - Chia, località Capo Spartivento – Cagliari
Spiaggia Rosa Budelli - Arcipelago di La Maddalena – Olbia-Tempio
Punta Molentis - Villasimius – Cagliari
Cala Brandinchi - San Teodoro – Olbia-Tempio
Porto Giunco - Villasimius – Cagliari

Romantic places suggested for couples in Sardinia are:

The beaches of Villasimius and Chia
Santa Teresa di Gallura
Mine of Masua: Porto Flavia

Places suggested for family vacation visits are:

The beaches of Villasimius
Nuraghe Su Nuraxi
The Archaeological Museum of Cagliari
Orgosolo, the city of Murales (mural paintings)

Must-see attractions in Sardinia

Nuragic Village at Su Nuraxi World Heritage Site near Barumini.

Nuraghe Su Nuraxi

Southwestern Sardinia

In the heart of the voluptuous green countryside near Barumini, the Nuraghe Su Nuraxi is Sardinia’s sole World Heritage Site and the island’s most visited…

Cala Goloritze, Orosei Gulf, Sardinia, Italy.

Cala Goloritzè

Golfo di Orosei

The last beachette of the gulf, Cala Goloritzè rivals the best. At the southern end, bizarre limestone formations soar away from the cliffside. Among them…

Eastern Sardinia

Hidden in a mountaintop cave deep in the Valle di Lanaittu, the mysterious nuraghic village of Tiscali is one of Sardinia’s must-see archaeological…

Spiaggia della Pelosa

Northwestern Sardinia

About 2.5km north of Stintino, the Spiaggia della Pelosa is a dreamy image of beach perfection: a salt-white strip of sand lapped by shallow, turquoise…

Cala Mariolu

Reachable only by boat or by a demanding three-hour trek from the Altopiano del Golgo, Cala Mariolu is arguably one of the most sublime spots on the coast…

Woman hiking inside the deepest canyon in Europe - Activity and Health concept - Gola Su Gorroppu.

Gola Su Gorropu

Sardinia's most spectacular gorge is flanked by limestone walls towering up to 500m in height. The endemic (and endangered) Aquilegia nuragica plant grows…

ITALY - JANUARY 11: The facade of the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria, Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy. (Photo by DeAgostini/Getty Images)

Santuario & Basilica di Nostra Signora di Bonaria

Crowning the Bonaria hill, around 1km southeast of Via Roma, this religious complex is a hugely popular pilgrimage site. Devotees come from all over the…

Sea wall of Alghero. North of Sardinia. Itlay.Alghero's golden sea walls, built around the centro storico by the Aragonese in the 16th century, are a highlight of the town's historic cityscape.; Shutterstock ID 576280477; Your name (First / Last): Anna Tyler; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: destination-image-southern-europe

Alghero's golden sea walls, built around the centro storico by the Aragonese in the 16th century, are a highlight of the town's historic cityscape…

Cattedrale di Santa Maria

Cagliari’s graceful 13th-century cathedral stands proudly on Piazza Palazzo. Except for the square-based bell tower, little remains of the original Gothic…

Parco Nazionale dell'Asinara

Named after its resident asini bianchi (albino donkeys), the Isola dell'Asinara encompasses 51 sq km of macchia (Mediterranean scrub), rocky coastline and…

Area Archeologica di Tharros

Western Sardinia

The choppy blue waters of the Golfo di Oristano provide a magnificent backdrop to the ruins of ancient Tharros. Founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th…

Museo Archeologico Nazionale

Of the four museums at the Cittadella dei Musei, this is the undoubted star. Sardinia’s premier archaeological museum showcases artefacts spanning…

Giara di Gesturi plateau, Gesturi, Sardinia, Italy.

La Giara di Gesturi

Rising above the rolling green landscape, La Giara di Gesturi is a high basalt plateau famous for its wild horses and uncontaminated natural beauty. The…

Porto Flavia

A marvel of early-20th-century engineering, Porto Flavia is a port dug into cliffs 50m above the sea. Consisting of two 600m tunnels and an ingenious…

Nuraghe di Santa Cristina

Just off the SS131 north of Oristano, the sanctuary at Santa Cristina is an important nuraghic complex. The nuraghic village's extraordinary Bronze Age…

Landscape of the crystal clear waters of the main beach in Tavolara Island.

Isola Tavolara

Northeastern Sardinia

Rising from the sapphire sea like some kind of giant sea creature, this rocky island is a sight to behold. The main draw is splashing about in the…

Museo Nazionale Sanna

Sassari's premier museum, housed in a grand Palladian villa, has a comprehensive archaeological collection and an ethnographical section dedicated to…

Monte dei Sette Fratelli

Southeastern Sardinia

Clad in thick forest, the mountain massif known as the Monte dei Sette Fratelli dominates the remote Sarrabus area. Its granite peaks and woodlands…

Compendio Garibaldino

Giuseppe Garibaldi, professional revolutionary and all-round Italian hero, bought half of Caprera in 1855 (he got the rest 10 years later). He made it his…

Cala Domestica Beach

A sensational sandy beach wedged into a natural inlet between craggy rocks, Cala Domestica is a heavenly spot. Its shallow blue waters are ideal for…

Su Gologone

Tucked beneath sheer limestone cliffs, this gorgeous mountain spring is the final outflow point for Italy's largest underground river system. Water…

Poetto Beach

An easy bus ride from the centre, Cagliari's fabulous Poetto beach extends for 7km beyond the green Promontorio di Sant'Elia, nicknamed the Sella del…

Cattedrale di Santa Maria in the ancient city of Alghero on the west coast of Sardinia; Shutterstock ID 336198101; Your name (First / Last): Anna Tyler; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: destination-image-southern-europe

Rising above the historic centre, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria's 16th-century campanile is one of Alghero's signature landmarks. The tower, accessible…

Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena

Established in 1996, Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena consists of seven main islands and several smaller granite islets off Sardinia's…

Grotta di Nettuno

Capo Caccia's principal crowd-puller is the Grotta di Nettuno, a haunting fairyland of stalactites and stalagmites. The easiest way to get to the caves is…

Tempio di Antas

An impressive Roman temple set in bucolic scenery 9km south of Fluminimaggiore, the Tempio di Antas has stood in isolation since the 3rd century AD. Built…

Museo Etnografico Sardo

Beautifully renovated in 2016, this museum zooms in on Sardinian folklore, harbouring a peerless collection of filigree jewellery, carpets, tapestries,…

Le Prigionette Nature Reserve

This reserve, just west of Porto Conte at the base of Monte Timidone (361m), is a beautiful pocket of uncontaminated nature. Encompassing 12 sq km of…

Il Castello

This hilltop citadel is Cagliari’s most iconic image, its domes, towers and palazzi, once home to the city’s aristocracy, rising above the sturdy ramparts…

Spiaggia di Piscinas

This magnificent beach is a picture of unspoilt beauty. A broad band of golden sand, it's sandwiched between a big-wave sea and a vast expanse of dunes…

Monte d’Accoddi

Signposted off the SS131 between Sassari and Porto Torres, Monte d’Accoddi is a unique Neolithic temple. Unlike anything else in the Mediterranean basin …

Piazza Italia

Sassari’s largest piazza is one of Sardinia’s most impressive public spaces. Covering about a hectare, it is surrounded by imposing 19th-century buildings…

Piazza Eleonora d’Arborea

Oristano’s elegant outdoor salon sits at the southern end of pedestrianised Corso Umberto I. An impressive, rectangular space, it comes to life on summer…

Bastione di Saint Remy

This vast neoclassical structure, comprising a gallery space, monumental stairway and panoramic terrace, was built into the city's medieval walls between…

Basilica di Santa Giusta

This landmark Romanesque church is one of Sardinia's architectural jewels. Dating to the early 12th century, it sports a severe sandstone exterior…

Capo Carbonara

If you embark on just one excursion from Villasimius, make it the 15-minute drive south to Capo Carbonara, a protected marine park. The promontory dips…

Museo Civico

Cabras' cultural highlight is the Museo Civico, and the real superstars here are the so-called Giants of Monte Prama, a series of towering nuraghic…

This panoramic terrace, accessible by a cliffside path from Nebida's southern entrance, commands fabulous views. Dominating the seascape is the 133m-high…

Museo Archeologico

Architect Vanni Macciocco designed Olbia’s strikingly contemporary museum near the port. The museum spells out local history in artefacts, from Roman…

Museo Etnografico ‘Olivia Carta Cannas’

Aggius is famous for its carpets, with a tradition dating back to the 1900s, when 4000 looms were busy in the area. This excellent museum showcases a fine…

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Undeniably Italian, yet expressing a unique regional identity, Sardinia presents a distinctive take on the Mediterranean island experience. Blending Italian and North African influences, the Sard people fiercely embrace their diverse island home. From the coast to the wilderness of the interior, Sardinia is well worth a visit.

The best travel tips for visiting Sardinia

Best things to do in sardinia, where to stay in sardinia, best restaurants and bars, how to get here, tips for getting around, how many days do you need in sardinia, best time to visit sardinia, travel ideas for italy, created by local experts.

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Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

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Florence. A mere mention of the name conjures up grand images of Renaissance romance, awe-inspiring art and astonishing architecture. Come and see for yourself.

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Welcome to this whirlwind tour of Rome, also known as the Eternal City. Rome is one of the most photogenic cities on earth, so make sure you pack your camera.

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When planning a trip to Sardinia, it is important to keep a few travel tips in mind. First, it is recommended to avoid the peak tourist season in August, as prices can be higher and crowds can be overwhelming. Instead, consider visiting in the shoulder season months of June, July, or September.

Additionally, be prepared for narrow, winding roads and rugged terrain in some areas. It is also worth noting that many businesses, including restaurants and shops, close for a mid-day siesta, so plan accordingly.

Planning tip : do you need help planning your trip to Italy? Perhaps our local experts can help!

Every trip to Sardinia in Italy is unique and that's why it's essential to stay protected. With our go-to travel insurance provider, Heymondo , you get great value and 24/7 support wherever you are.

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Sardinia offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy, from exploring the island's rich history to soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches. Here is our pick of the best things to do in Sardinia.

#1 Relax at the Sardinian beaches

Even the most discerning beach enthusiasts will find their desires fulfilled with the abundant selection of swimming spots scattered along the mesmerizing coasts of Sardinia. Whether you prefer perennial favorites that have stood the test of time or hidden gems nestled within secluded coves, there's always a beach nearby.

Sardinia boasts some of the most remarkable beaches in all of Italy, guaranteeing an unforgettable beach experience for all who visit. These are some of the best beaches on the island:

La Pelosa: Located near Stintino in the northwest, La Pelosa is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and a picturesque backdrop of the medieval tower of Torre della Pelosa.
Cala Goloritzé: Situated on the east coast, Cala Goloritzé is a hidden gem accessible only by boat or a challenging hike. It features a striking limestone rock formation called the Aguglia, pristine waters, and a small pebble beach.
Cala Mariolu: Also found on the east coast, Cala Mariolu is known for its pristine and transparent waters, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking rock formations. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities here.
Spiaggia di Tuerredda: Located in the south, near Chia, Tuerredda Beach is renowned for its Caribbean-like beauty. With its soft sand, clear turquoise waters, and surrounding hills, it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Porto Giunco: Situated in Villasimius on the southeast coast, Porto Giunco offers a stunning landscape with fine white sand, shallow waters, and a backdrop of Mediterranean vegetation and saltwater lagoon.
Cala Brandinchi: Known as "Little Tahiti," Cala Brandinchi on the northeast coast boasts turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and a pine forest backdrop, creating a truly idyllic setting.
Spiaggia di Is Arutas: Located on the central west coast near Oristano, Is Arutas is famous for its unique sand made up of tiny quartz grains resembling colorful grains of rice. The beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs and clear waters.
Spiaggia del Principe: Situated on the Costa Smeralda in the northeast, Spiaggia del Principe offers a secluded and picturesque setting with fine sand, granite rock formations, and turquoise waters.

#2 Discover the area's ancient towers

Nuraghe-spotting is one of the classic pastimes when travelling through the island. Some of these prehistoric monuments are well restored and can only be visited with a ticket; others are mossy ruins in fields, free to enter. One of the most exhilarating is the Nuraghe Mannu outside Cala Gonone.

Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

#3 Take time for culinary pursuits

You’ll enjoy the exquisite sea and land-based dishes in restaurants throughout the island. That said, some of the best places are off the tourist track. You'll want to be sure to explore such inland centres as Sássari and Nuoro.

#4 Explore church treasures

You don’t have to visit galleries to see great art in Sardinia – some of the smallest, most unprepossessing churches preserve some real gems of medieval art. For example, the magnificent altarpiece in San Pietro Apostolo, Tuili, is well worth a detour.

#5 Rides and drives

Embarking on a road trip through Sardinia is a gateway to experiencing the island's awe-inspiring landscape, and it is an adventure that will leave travellers in awe. The undulating terrain of the island's mountainous interior presents an enchanting backdrop for long, leisurely journeys, allowing explorers to truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

One of the most beloved routes is found in the picturesque area of Gerrei, known for its captivating scenery and charming villages. As you traverse the roads south of Dorgali and west of Aggius, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, rugged mountains, and verdant valleys, evoking a sense of tranquility and wonder. The roads wind through idyllic countryside, adorned with vineyards, olive groves, and grazing sheep, providing a glimpse into the traditional rural life of Sardinia.

Along the way, there are numerous opportunities to stop and explore the hidden gems that dot the landscape, from ancient ruins to quaint villages where time seems to stand still.

RoughGuides Tip: did you know we have a great road trip you can book directly ?

#6 Spend time at the Isles of Wonder

The island has its own subgroups of islands, the most dramatic of which is the archipelago of La Maddalena, off the northeastern coast; you can explore the pristine beaches and silky waters on boat trips – join a group or rent your own motor-dinghy.

#7 Learn about local culture at the Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum in Sardinia is a fascinating place to explore and learn about the island's history and cultural heritage. A visit to this extensive collection – crammed with masks, costumes, craftwork and musical instruments – offers intriguing insights into the local culture.

#8 Plunge into Neptune’s Grotto

Neptune's Grotto is a stunning sea cave and is a must-visit for anyone travelling to the island. Stalactites, stalagmites and eccentric rock formations are the highlights of a tour through the Grotta di Nettuno, a cave complex set in towering cliffs by the sea.

Stairways to stalactite cave of Neptune Grotto in Alghero in Sardinia © Prashant_Agrawal/Shutterstock

#9 See Tharros — one of the best things to do in Sardinia

Tharros, an ancient Phoenician-Roman city in Sardinia, offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history through its well-preserved ruins and stunning coastal location. Founded by the Phoenicians on a promontory jutting into the sea, this historic site retains extensive evidence of the Punic and Roman settlers who followed.

#10 Explore the beautiful landscapes of Inland Gallura

Inland Gallura boasts breathtakingly beautiful landscapes that capture the essence of the Mediterranean. Interspersed with thick groves of cork oaks, the granite rockscape of this scarcely populated mountainous zone offers unforgettable panoramas.

#11 Discover the underwater world

Diving enthusiasts will find a captivating underwater world awaiting them in the azure depths surrounding Sardinia. With its clear waters, diverse marine life, and captivating underwater landscapes, the island offers an unforgettable diving experience.

One of the top diving spots in Sardinia is the Marine Protected Area of Tavolara-Capo Coda Cavallo. This area is home to vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves, and a rich variety of marine species, including groupers, moray eels, and colorful nudibranchs. Another renowned site is the Isola di Mal di Ventre, known for its incredible visibility and the opportunity to encounter large pelagic species such as dolphins and tuna.

The Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, located near Villasimius, is another popular diving destination. Its crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, including octopuses, seahorses, and various species of colorful fish. For those seeking adventure, the underwater caves of the Grotta del Nereo near Alghero offer a unique and fascinating diving experience.

Other notable diving spots include the underwater archaeological site of Nora, where divers can explore ancient ruins beneath the sea, and the Lavezzi Islands, located between Sardinia and Corsica, known for their abundant marine life and stunning rock formations.

On the whole, accommodation in Sardinia is cheaper than in the rest of Italy. The main problem is the lack of availability, as the various options can be fully booked in summer. Even outside the high season, it’s advisable to book as early as you can.

As well as hotels, there are hostels, B&Bs, agriturismi (rural accommodation), self-catering villas and apartments, and campsites with bungalows or caravans to rent. There is certainly no shortage of options when deciding where to stay in Sardinia .

Group of women wearing colourful traditional Sardinian embroidered dresses, parading in the streets, Italy © hybridimages/Shutterstock

Full meals can be elaborate affairs. These are generally served in a trattoria or a ristorante, though these days there’s often a fine line between the two: traditionally, a trattoria is cheaper and more basic, offering home cooking (cucinacasalinga), while a ristorante is more upmarket (tablecloths and waiters).Antica Dimora del Gruccione, Santu Lussurgiu. This gourmet restaurant concentrates on local meat products (with veggie options) and charges €35 for a five-course meal..

Dal Corsaro, Cágliari. At this venerable spot – one of Cágliari’s oldest restaurants and the only one that is Michelin-starred – the dominant tone is hushed elegance. Modern, stripped-down versions of classic fish and meat dishes are often memorable.
Il Mosto, Aggius. This granite-walled trattoria is among Gallura’s finest, offering honest gallurese cuisine at moderate prices (€30 per head for two courses).
Il Pórtico, Nuoro. You’ll find an innovative approach to the traditional Sard dishes on offer in this smart place with modern art on the walls.
Mabrouk, Alghero. This is about as near as Alghero comes to a cosy neighbourhood trattoria, where there’s no written menu but a democratic €40 fixed-price dinner for everyone – including unlimited house wine and limoncello.

If you're looking to travel to Sardinia, you have several options available. One way to reach the island is by taking a direct flight from major European cities. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from mainland Italy or other Mediterranean countries.

From the UK, flights operated by Ryanair, Tui and easyJet to Alghero, Olbia and Cagliari are hard to beat for price. From the Italian mainland, there are frequent daily flights to the island’s airports from Rome , Milan and Bologna , with less frequent connections from smaller centres. Most routes are served by Alitalia, Air Italy, easyJet and Ryanair. Prices start at around €40 for a one-way Milan–Alghero ticket.

Regular, year-round ferries sail to Sardinia from mainland Italy , Sicily , Corsica and France . Reserve well in advance for summer crossings, especially if you have a car or bike. August sailings can be fully booked by May. Prices in high season start from about €40/person, depending on the route.

The cheapest tickets (“Ponte”) involve sleeping on deck. Pricier tickets include a reclining armchair and a berth adds another €45 or so. The charge for a medium car is around €130 in high season. Look out for discounts on return tickets bought in advance within certain periods, and for special deals for a car plus two or three passengers.

trenino-verde-train-sardinia-shutterstock_203817742

If you're looking to travel to Sardinia, you have several options available. One way to reach the island is by taking a direct flight from major European cities like Rome, Milan, or Barcelona to Cagliari, the capital city. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from mainland Italy or other Mediterranean countries such as France or Spain, which offers picturesque views of the island's coastline.

The best way of getting around Sardinia is undoubtedly by car. There are rental offices in all the major towns including Cagliari .

The island-wide bus service is run by ARST , supplemented by smaller independent operators covering specific long-distance routes, for example Turmo between Cagliari and Olbia.

Trains connect the major towns of Cagliari , Oristano, Sassari and Olbia, operated by Trenitalia . Smaller narrow-gauge lines linking Nuoro and Alghero with the main network are run by ARST . From mid-June to mid-Sept, the Trenino Verde trains take slow but scenic routes to various destinations around the island, including Bosa, Tempio Pausania and Láconi.

Beach of "Cala Gonone", Sardinia © LPuddori/Shutterstock

To fully appreciate the island's stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming coastal towns, it is recommended to spend at least a week in Sardinia.

That said, if you are interested in exploring the island's more remote areas or embarking on adventurous activities such as hiking, diving or sailing, then you may want to consider extending your stay to ten days or more.

To avoid the crowds, high prices, and heat, it is best to skip August when visiting Sardinia. Meanwhile June, July, and September are still hot but less busy. Swimming is possible from May to October.

Visiting in the winter can be a low-key experience, though some facilities may be closed. Spring is great for festivals and walking, while autumn offers beautiful colours for outdoor activities.

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updated 06.09.2021

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La Maddalena

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Places to see

A road runs all around the island's perimeter, 45 kilometres of breath-taking views: granite and porphyry delimit jagged sections, lonely coves, silent coves, white beaches and turquoise sea, with rolling hills inland. La Maddalena is the big sister to about 60 islands and islets that make up the largest archipelago of Gallura and Sardinia, protected by the national park established in 1994, an unspoilt marvel of the Mediterranean. The island is the ideal destination for holidays characterized by natural beauty: three kilometres from the inhabited paths through the Mediterranean scrub will let you discover the fjord of Cala Francese , famous for a precious granite quarry, a source of wealth for centuries. In the south, along the Padule road, you reach the Nido d'Aquila , near the military fort. Not far away is another marvel of sand and smooth rocks, Punta Tegge . To the north lie are bays made of fine white sand dunes, surrounded by rocks shaped by time: Cala Lunga, Monti d'Arena and Bassa Trinita , a beach surmounted by an eighteenth-century church, a place of heartfelt devotion. In the east you will admire the delightful Spalmatore cove: cream-colored sand framed by Mediterranean vegetation and embellished with pink rocks.

The island, inhabited in prehistoric times, was abandoned by the fall of the Western Roman Empire until the seventeenth century, when a colony of Corsican shepherds settled there founding the current community. Its strategic position, an obligatory passage in the Bonifacio straits, made it a military outpost, of which today's fortifications can be seen, and attracted, among others, Napoleon Bonaparte, after being fought off by the fleet led by Maddalena native Domenico Millelire (1793). It has long been a base for the Italian and US Navy, although the base was permanently abandoned at the beginning of 2008. US submarines stopped over in Santo Stefano , the fourth largest island in the archipelago. Today, La Maddalena houses a school for lieutenants and is home to a maritime compartment. The town, unique in the archipelago, is populated by over eleven thousand inhabitants. Its port overlooks Palau , from which it is 15 minutes by ferry. The stone-paved alleyways of the centre open onto 18th century buildings, including the Santa Maria Maddalena parish church . Its sacristy hosts the diocesan museum of holy art, where the treasure of the patron saint is displayed, including the crucifix and two silver candlesticks donated by Admiral Nelson (1804). This is the heart of the town's historical memory. The small harbour of Cala Gavetta has a statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, who lived out his last 26 years in Caprera, linked to La Maddalena by the Passo della Moneta, and famous for the Compendio Museale Garibaldino. The second largest island of the archipelago was Garibaldi's 'garden', famous today for the Compendio garibaldino , the most visited museum in Sardinia. The uncontaminated green is surrounded by beautiful coves, one more beautiful than the other: Coticcio cove, the Sardinian Tahiti, Cala Due dei Due and the beach of the Relitto . In Stagnali, a military village during the world wars and today an environmental education centre, there is the naturalistic geomineralogic museum , where you can admire rocks and rare minerals, such as huge quartz crystals, beach sands and fossils. In the town you can continue the cultural tour in the museum of the Sea and the naval archaeological museum named after Nino Lamboglia , dedicated to the wreck of Spargi , a Roman cargo ship, which shipwrecked in the waters of the splendid third Maddalena island around 120 BC. You will see the reconstruction of the split of the hull rebuilt to scale, containing the 200 wine amphorae and canteen vases found in the seabed. As well as diving, Spargi offers you masterpieces of nature, among which Cala Corsara stands out , a bouquet of four impalpable sandy coves surrounded by junipers, brooms and sea lilies. From the port of La Maddalena you can set out by boat to discover the other islands of the park: next to it is Santo Stefano, dotted with coves, granite quarries and accommodation facilities; to the north-west Budelli, famous for the mythical (and inaccessible) pink beach , set of Antonioni's 'Red Desert'; in the far north the beautiful Razzoli and Santa Maria ; to the south, facing the Costa Smeralda , the granitic islands of Bisce and Mortorio. home to rare birdlife.

Let yourself be inspired

An Island park to be explored

Natural scenery of an island straight out of a film

Sardinia's historic gardens, people and plants intertwined

Pictures and videos.

What’s to see

Punta Tegge

Santo Stefano

Cala Spalmatore

Cala Garibaldi

Cala Conneri

Cala Napoletana

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Spiaggia del Relitto

Spiaggia Rosa

Cavaliere beach - Budelli

Spiaggia Rosa - Budelli - Arcipelago della Maddalena

Santa Maria

Isola di Mortorio e dei Soffi - Arzachena

Isola di Mortorio e di Soffi

Nearby hotels and accommodations, casa per ferie oasi serena maria immacolata, grand hotel resort ma & ma.

HOTEL GARIBALDI

We walk in Sardinia
Nature and well-being
Discover the culture
Must see events
An island to be discovered

Things to do

Calendar of events
Itineraries
How to arrive in Sardinia
How to get around Sardinia
Travelling safely
The weather in Sardinia
Disabled travellers
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Where to sleep

IMAGES

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10 Best Places to Visit in Sardinia, Italy

COMMENTS

SardegnaTurismo
Informazioni utili per le vacanze in Sardegna. Scopri sul sito ufficiale di Sardegna Turismo il territorio, la cultura, gli eventi e organizza le tue vacanze in Sardegna
Sardinia travel
Sardinia. Italy, Europe. Just beyond the glamor of Sardinia lies an island full of myth, tradition, incredible cuisine scenery that will leave you breathless. Best Time to Visit. Best Places to Visit. Attractions.
Things to do & Places to visit in Sardinia
Here we find Sunalle, the old bakery of the town of Fonni, which has been producing this typical Sardinian dish for over 30 years, tempting all passers-by with its delicious aroma. Let's delve into the origins, the legends, the traditional recipe for pane carasau flatbread and its connection to the highest-altitude town in Sardinia. 2 minutes.
8 things to know before traveling to Sardinia
Needless to say, always carry plenty of water. 4. Fly or book a ferry to get to Sardinia. Sardinia is well connected to mainland Italy and many European destinations, thanks to three airports - Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero - located on three corners of the island. Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, is the main entry point, but Alghero has long ...
8 unmissable places to visit in Sardinia, Italy
1. Cagliari. Best for urban excitement. Sardinia's capital and largest city makes a great place to begin or end your trip. Stroll through the narrow lanes of Il Castello, Cagliari's medieval hilltop citadel, to admire the dizzying mix of architectural styles at Cattedrale di Santa Maria and the far-reaching views atop Torre dell'Elefante.
17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sardinia
16. Costa Verde. Scivu Beach, Costa Verde. Some of the best beaches in Italy, miles of dune-backed sands along the southwest coast, are among the best-kept secrets of Sardinia. The Costa Verde has few tourist services, hence few tourists, which is one of its chief attractions.
Places to see
Nuoro and the small townships are the island's hidden and silent heart, dominated by the rugged and wild mountains of Supramonte and Gennargentu, where you can find the essence of Sardinian traditions and hospitality. White beaches kissed by a sea with shades of silver, turquoise, blue and topaz. Sandy coves, cliffs, islands.
Sardinia: All You Need to Know Before You Go (2024)
Plan Your Sardinia Holiday: Best of Sardinia. 7,110. Sardinia, Italy. The second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, Sardinia serves up a lovely blend of sea, sand, and history. Thousands of nuraghe (ancient stone buildings) dot the landscape, proof that people have been enjoying the climate here for millennia.
Visit Sardinia: Top 25 Things to Do and Must See Attractions
2. The scenic SP71 road from Porto Teulada to Chia. Another must see in Sardinia is the scenic road ("Strada Panoramica" in Italian) from Porto Teulada to Chia. The SP71 road is one of the most beautiful of the island. It goes along the South-East coastline with amazing panoramic views.
Sardinia: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)
7,110. Sardinia, Italy. The second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, Sardinia serves up a lovely blend of sea, sand, and history. Thousands of nuraghe (ancient stone buildings) dot the landscape, proof that people have been enjoying the climate here for millennia. From posh Costa Smeralda in the north to medieval Alghero in the ...
Sardinia
Sardinia (Italian: Sardegna [sarˈdeɲɲa], Sardinian: Sardìgna/Sardìnnia) with its quintessential Mediterranean beauty, is mainly loved for swimming, boating, windsurfing, hiking, climbing, and camping, with coastal areas tending to become over touristed especially in the warmest month, August.The inner life of the island away from the tourist spots takes longer to appreciate and requires ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Sardinia (2024)
Beaches. Dog Friendly Beach. 9. Frecce delle Grotte S.R.L. 5,664. Caverns & Caves. Tour this marine cave that is carved in a spectacular sheer cliff, with long winding passages that delve far into the rock passing many fantastical stalagmites and stalactites. See ways to experience (4) 2024.
8 of the best things to do in Sardinia
Thousands of nuraghi - stone-built towering structures erected by the obscure Nuragic civilization between 1800 and 700 BCE - mark the Sardinian territory, offering the chance to observe the ruins of some of the island's early settlements.The largest nuraghe - Sardinia's only UNESCO World Heritage site - is found in the village of Barumini.
15 Things To Do In Sardinia You Will Definitely Love
Cala Goloritze boat tour - a boat ride to a beach that can't be reached otherwise. Orosei gulf hop on - hop off boat tour - this tour goes to what I believe is the most beautiful coast of Sardinia. Visiting Cagliari is one of the things to do in Sardinia.
The 11 Best Things to Do in Sardinia, Italy
Viale Spartivento, 09010Domus de MariaCA, Italy. Phone +39 393 827 6800. Web Visit website. You'll need a car to explore the best parts of Sardinia fully, so make the most of your vehicle and drive along the scenic SP71. Italy designates its national scenic byways as strada panoramica, and the SP71 highway along the southernmost tip of Sardinia ...
Traveling To Sardinia: 27 Very Useful Things To Know
Sardinia is the Italian region with the highest pro-capita consumption of beer. Off the counter beer in Sardinia means Ichnusa - we love the unfiltered variety. The consumption and production of craft beer is increasing too. The one to try is Pozzo, produced in Guspini. The best varieties are Pozzo 9 and Pozzo 16.
What to see in Sardinia: towns, beaches and must-see attractions
Obviously, its sunny coasts and its white and sandy beaches are the main tourist attractions, but there is a endless list of places and facets to discover in Sardinia. We are talking about the most renowned towns and cities, the most characteristic islands and, of course, important sites of historical and cultural interest.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Sardinia
Beaches. Dog Friendly Beach. 9. Frecce delle Grotte S.R.L. 5,663. Caverns & Caves. Tour this marine cave that is carved in a spectacular sheer cliff, with long winding passages that delve far into the rock passing many fantastical stalagmites and stalactites. See ways to experience (4) 2024.
Cagliari
Cagliari is Sardinia's main and most populous city, at the centre of an urban area that counts 430,000 inhabitants (150,000 of them in the capital city alone) as well as the island's gateway port and main Mediterranean cruise liner hub. The city's history goes back thousands of years, from pre-historic times to the reign of the Savoy.
Must-see attractions Sardinia, Italy
Campania. Discover the best attractions in Sardinia including Nuraghe Su Nuraxi, Cala Goloritzè, and Tiscali.
Sardinia, Italy
This site is owned by Apa Digital AG, Bahnhofplatz 6, 8854 Siebnen, Switzerland. Rough Guides® is a trademark owned by Apa Group with its headquarters at 7 Bell Yard London WC2A 2JR, United Kingdom. Plan your visit to Sardinia, Italy: find out where to go and what to do with Rough Guides. Read about itineraries, activities and places to stay ...
SardegnaTurismo
Zwischen Ende August und Anfang September wird in Cabras, auf der Sinis-Halbinsel, dieses festliche Ereignis begangen, das auf das 17.Jh. zurückzuführen ist: Es ist ein für Mittel-West-Sardinien besonders charakteristisches Fest
La Maddalena
La Maddalena is the big sister to about 60 islands and islets that make up the largest archipelago of Gallura and Sardinia, protected by the national park established in 1994, an unspoilt marvel of the Mediterranean. The island is the ideal destination for holidays characterized by natural beauty: three kilometres from the inhabited paths ...