Planning a trip to Sardinia and wondering about the best places to visit? This stunning Italian island is the second-largest in the Mediterranean and one of the most ancient landforms in Europe. Many travelers choose Sardinia for its breathtaking turquoise seas and pristine sandy beaches. However, there’s much more to explore beyond the sun and surf. Sardinia’s historic towns, charming villages, natural wonders, delectable cuisine, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a fantastic travel destination. To help you plan the perfect trip, here are some of the top spots to visit in Sardinia.
Cagliari:
Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, offers a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great starting point for your trip. The city boasts beautiful tree-lined boulevards and is home to the historic Quartiere Castello neighborhood perched on a hill. This area is the oldest and most fascinating part of the city, featuring narrow streets, a university, a cathedral, museums, towers, and palaces. Don’t miss the Marina district along the seafront, which offers a scenic waterfront with bars, restaurants, cafes, and notable landmarks.
Maddalena National Park:
Off the northern coast, Maddalena National Park is a geo-marine national park that spans over 12,000 hectares of land and sea, with 180 kilometers of coastline. The park encompasses a series of islands including Maddalena, Caprera, Santo Stefano, Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Razzoli, often referred to as the “seven sisters.” The crystal-clear azure waters make it ideal for boat trips, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Make sure to visit some of the park’s best beaches like Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio, Cala Brigantina, Testa di Polpo, Cala Caprarese, Spiaggia di Cala Spalmatore, Spiaggia Cala Francese, Porto della Madonna, and Garibaldi Beach.
Olbia:
Situated in northeast Sardinia, Olbia serves as a gateway to Costa Smeralda, known for some of the island’s best beaches. With both a port and an airport, it’s easily accessible from various European cities. Although many tourists bypass Olbia, it’s worth spending a few hours exploring its rich history and pleasant ambiance. Visit its intriguing museums and charming historical buildings. Stroll down Corso Umberto, the main street, lined with cafes, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Afterward, head to Costa Smeralda, a beautiful coastal stretch known for its white sandy beaches, golf clubs, and luxury hotels. The main hubs include Porto Cervo, Liscia di Vacca, Capriccioli, and Romazzino.
Alghero:
Located in northwestern Sardinia, Alghero is a charming town next to the Mediterranean Sea filled with tourist attractions. The historical center (old town) is the most interesting area with its narrow cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. Don’t miss the recently restored medieval fortifications and bastions. Additionally, Alghero boasts beautiful beaches such as Maria Pia, Lido San Giovanni, Bombarde Beach, and Lazzaretto Beach, among others. Also, visit Neptune’s Grotto, a stunning stalactite cave near the town. For hiking enthusiasts, Porto Conte Regional Natural Park offers lovely trails and breathtaking sea views.
Castelsardo:
On Sardinia’s northern coast, Castelsardo features a picturesque fortified old town perched on a hill above the rocky coastline. The castle in the old town is a major landmark and the town is also known for its traditional basket weaving, which is celebrated in the Museo dell’Intreccio del Mediterraneo, located in Castelsardo’s medieval castle.
Gulf of Orosei:
Stretching about 30 kilometers along Sardinia’s eastern coast, the Gulf of Orosei is one of the island’s most stunning and unspoiled areas. It’s renowned for its secluded beaches, dramatic rocky coves, and scenic nature trails. Hike to Cala Luna, a gorgeous beach set against steep limestone cliffs featuring crystal-clear waters and pristine sand, making it perfect for snorkeling. Cala Goloritzé, created by a 1962 landslide, is famous for its 143-meter-high pinnacle and is one of Italy’s most celebrated beaches.
Orgosolo:
Located about 20 kilometers south of Nuoro, Orgosolo is a small town recognized for its vibrant murals that range from depictions of everyday rural scenes to global historical and political events. The surrounding area offers hiking opportunities on Monte Corrasi, Monte Novo San Giovanni, Foresta di Montes, and Monte Ortobene.
By exploring these diverse and enchanting locations, your visit to Sardinia is sure to be an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural treasures.