italian-region-guide-sardinia

Visit Sardinia

From the turquoise coves of Costa Smeralda to the rugged mountains of Barbagia, Sardinia is a land of striking contrasts and breathtaking natural beauty.

Explore Cagliari, the island’s capital, with its historic Castello district, vibrant markets, and panoramic views over the sea. Wander the medieval streets of Alghero, with its Catalan heritage, or the charming coastal town of Bosa, known for its colorful houses along the river Temo. For sun-seekers, the pristine beaches of La Maddalena, Chia, Villasimius, and Costa Rei showcase crystal-clear waters and soft sands, creating idyllic spots to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Sardinia

Beyond the coast, Sardinia’s interior is rich with history and culture. Ancient Nuragic sites, such as Su Nuraxi in Barumini, hint at the island’s mysterious past, while towns like Oristano, Nuoro, and Olbia offer authentic local experiences, from traditional cuisine to vibrant festivals. Hike the rugged trails of Gennargentu National Park, sail around hidden coves, or explore charming villages perched on hillsides, and you’ll discover that Sardinia’s magic lies not only in its landscapes but in its unique blend of sun, sea, and history, a truly Mediterranean escape.

Cagliari

Cagliari, perched on a series of hills overlooking the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, is a city of striking beauty, history, and vibrant character. Its historic quarters, Castello, Marina, Stampace, and Villanova, are a labyrinth of narrow streets, sun-drenched squares, and terraces that offer sweeping views across the harbour and coastline.

The old town brims with charm: elegant palazzi with pastel façades, cafés tucked into centuries-old courtyards, and artisan shops showcasing local crafts and culinary specialties.

Down below, the Marina district hums with life, where fishing boats and yachts glide across the shimmering waters, reflecting Cagliari’s long maritime tradition.

Among the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Bastione di Saint Remy, a grand terrace with panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding hills. The Cattedrale di Santa Maria, with its Romanesque and Gothic features, reveals layers of the city’s rich spiritual and architectural history.

As evening falls, Cagliari comes alive. Locals and visitors gather in Piazza Yenne or along the waterfront to enjoy aperitivi and regional wines, while strolls along the promenade offer breathtaking sunset views, painting the sea and rooftops in hues of gold and crimson.

Bosa

Bosa is a charming riverside town on Sardinia’s west coast, where the Temo River winds through colourful houses and leads to the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean.

The town captivates with its winding streets, pastel-hued façades, and sunlit squares, offering a glimpse of traditional Sardinian life.

Family-run cafés and artisan shops line the lanes, while terraces overlooking the river and coastline provide stunning views that stretch across the surrounding hills.

Dominating the town is the impressive Castello Malaspina, perched on a hill above Bosa. From its ramparts, panoramic views extend over the terracotta rooftops, the Temo River, and the turquoise sea beyond.

The coastline near Bosa is dotted with sandy beaches and hidden coves. Boat trips from the harbour reveal secluded shores and rocky formations along the Costa Verde, where the clear Mediterranean waters shimmer in shades of blue and green.

Surrounding hills and trails invite hiking and cycling through olive groves, vineyards, and Mediterranean scrub, with vistas that capture the timeless charm of western Sardinia.

Stintino

Stintino is a picturesque seaside village perched on Sardinia’s northwest coast, where crystal-clear waters meet sun-drenched beaches and rugged coastal landscapes.

The town charms with its narrow streets, colourful houses, and lively squares. Cafés, gelaterias, and family-run trattorias offer a taste of Sardinian cuisine, from fresh seafood to homemade pasta, accompanied by local wines and citrus-infused delicacies.

One of Stintino’s most iconic landmarks is La Pelosa Beach, renowned for its powdery white sand and shallow, turquoise waters. A short boat trip along the coast reveals hidden coves and rocky outcrops perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or photography, capturing the pristine beauty of the region.

Nearby, the Torre della Pelosa, an ancient watchtower, stands sentinel over the coastline, offering panoramic views across the Asinara Strait and the distant island of Asinara.

Fishing boats glide across calm waters, while coastal paths and trails lead to secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and scenic lookouts.

During summer, local festivals, artisan markets, and open-air events bring Stintino to life, celebrating Sardinian culture, traditions, and the spirit of the sea.

Golfo Aranci

Golfo Aranci, on Sardinia’s northeast coast, is a charming seaside town known for its sparkling waters, colourful harbour, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

The town’s centre is a pleasant maze of narrow streets, sunlit squares, and cafés where visitors can savour local seafood and pastries, or enjoy a glass of Sardinian wine while watching the harbour bustle with fishing boats and yachts.

The Golfo Aranci waterfront offers panoramic views across the Tyrrhenian Sea and the rugged coastline beyond. A short walk leads to Spiaggia Grande, a sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or leisurely strolls along the shore.

The town is also a gateway for boat trips to nearby islands and hidden coves, revealing the crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs of the region.

Scenic coastal paths and surrounding hills provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and photography, with vistas of turquoise waters, olive groves, and Mediterranean scrub.

Evenings here are magical, as sunsets paint the town and sea in gold and rose hues, best enjoyed from a terrace or a seaside café.

La Maddalena

La Maddalena is a captivating island town in the Maddalena Archipelago, off Sardinia’s northeastern coast, renowned for its turquoise waters, hidden coves, and unspoiled landscapes.

The historic centre, with its narrow streets, pastel-coloured houses, and charming piazzas, exudes a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Cafés and seafood trattorias line the harbour, offering fresh catches of the day alongside local wines and desserts.

The island’s natural beauty is its true highlight. Spiaggia del Relitto, Cala Granara, and Cala Spalmatore are just a few of the pristine beaches accessible by boat or short coastal walks. Excursions by boat allow visitors to explore secluded coves, hidden sea caves, and the crystal-clear waters surrounding the archipelago.

Historic sites add another layer of interest, including the Naval Museum and the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, while scenic trails and nearby hills provide excellent hiking and panoramic viewpoints.

Evenings on La Maddalena are peaceful yet vibrant, with locals gathering along the waterfront to enjoy aperitivi.

Carloforte

Carloforte, located on the island of San Pietro off Sardinia’s southwestern coast, is a unique fishing town with Ligurian roots, offering a blend of colourful architecture, maritime charm, and vibrant local culture.

The historic centre is a maze of narrow streets and pastel-hued houses, leading to sunlit squares where cafés, gelaterias, and seafood trattorias invite visitors to savour local delicacies. Carloforte is famous for its tonno di Carloforte (tuna) and traditional seafood dishes, best enjoyed with a glass of Sardinian wine by the harbour.

The town’s waterfront is lively yet relaxed, with fishing boats and pleasure yachts dotting the turquoise waters. Piazza Carlo Emanuele and the seafront promenade provide scenic spots for strolls, while the Lighthouse of Capo Sandalo offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean waters.

Outdoor enthusiasts explore nearby beaches, including Spiaggia La Bobba and Spiaggia Guidi, or take boat trips to secluded coves and rocky inlets. Hiking and cycling trails across the island reveal dramatic cliffs, Mediterranean scrub, and panoramic vistas.

Flights and getting around

Exploring Sardinia by car is the ideal way to uncover the island’s vast and varied landscapes. Driving offers the freedom to discover hidden coves, scenic viewpoints, and authentic Sardinian communities such as Bosa, Orgosolo, and Sant’Antioco, as well as coastal gems like Alghero, Cagliari, and the Costa Smeralda. The island’s well-maintained roads make it easy to travel at your own pace, stopping to enjoy sea views, vineyards, and traditional agriturismi along the way.

Public transport connects most major towns and cities, though rural routes can be infrequent. Trains operated by Trenitalia and ARST link Cagliari, Oristano, Sassari, and Olbia, providing a comfortable way to travel between regional hubs. Regional and local buses reach many smaller towns and beach resorts, but schedules may vary outside the summer season.

Flights from the UK: Approximately 2.5 hours.
Main airports:

Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) — ideal for southern Sardinia and the capital.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) — convenient for the northeast and the Costa Smeralda.
Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) — perfect for exploring the northwest and Riviera del Corallo.

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Weather

Sardinia enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, shaped by its dramatic coastlines, rugged interior mountains, and fertile plains dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and cork forests.

The island is a land of contrasts: golden beaches, rocky cliffs, dense forests, and sun-drenched valleys that stretch inland.

Summer in Sardinia is long and radiant, with coastal temperatures typically ranging from 28–33°C. It’s the perfect season to swim in the turquoise waters of Costa Smeralda, Chia, or Cala Gonone, relax on sandy stretches such as Poetto Beach, or enjoy an evening passeggiata through harbour towns where cafés and gelaterias stay open late.

Spring and autumn bring milder temperatures of 16–25°C, ideal for exploring hilltop villages like Bosa, Castelsardo, and Orgosolo, or hiking through the Gennargentu Mountains and along scenic coastal trails. These seasons also coincide with festivals, artisan markets, and harvests, offering an authentic taste of Sardinian life.

Winter is generally mild along the coast, with temperatures around 10–15°C, while the island’s interior mountains occasionally see snow. It’s a quieter season to enjoy rustic mountain cuisine, wander tranquil villages, and explore scenic beaches without the summer crowds.

Top ten attractions in Sardinia…

Costa Smeralda – Join a boat tour to explore hidden coves, granite cliffs, and the pristine Maddalena Archipelago.
Su Nuraxi di Barumini – Sardinia’s most important UNESCO archaeological site. Guided tours reveal the mysteries of the 3000 year old Nuragic stone complex.
La Maddalena Archipelago National Park – Ferry trips and guided boat excursions provide access to idyllic swimming spots and nature trails.
Cagliari’s Castello District – Wander the historic hilltop quarter with its medieval towers, narrow lanes, and the National Archaeological Museum.
Neptune’s Grotto (Alghero) – A spectacular sea cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
Tharros Archaeological Site – An ancient Phoenician and Roman settlement on the Sinis Peninsula.
Gorropu Canyon (Gola di Gorropu) – One of Europe’s deepest canyons, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
Bosa – A colorful riverside town known for its pastel houses, Malaspina Castle, and artisan traditions.
Nuraghe Palmavera (Alghero) – An impressive Nuragic complex offering a glimpse into prehistoric Sardinia.
Orgosolo and the Supramonte Region – Famous for its political murals and rugged landscapes.