10-day Sardinia tour – route, highlights & tips

How about a 10-day Sardinia tour on your own? Paradise beaches, imposing mountain ranges, secluded bays, dreamy villages, and incredibly delicious food – welcome to one of Europe’s most beautiful islands.

We’re often asked where the most beautiful places in Sardinia are and whether you should do a 10-day tour in the north or the south. First of all: The island has a lot to offer in the north, east, south and west.

To make planning your trip easier, we have put together two travel itineraries for Sardinia. We also provide you with all the necessary tips on rental cars, costs, accommodations, and excursion options.

10-day Sardinia tour in the north
Sardinia route planning in detail – 10 days in the north
10-day Sardinia tour in the south
Sardinia route planning in detail – 10 days in the south
Costs for a 10-day Sardinia tour
General travel tips for Sardinia

10-day Sardinia tour in the north

One of our favorite travel routes in Sardinia takes you through the beautiful and diverse north of the island. It starts in Olbia, where you can arrive in peace after your flight. Stroll along the harbor, browse the shops in the old town, and end your first evening with a leisurely meal of pasta and a glass of wine.

The next day, your tour begins towards the Costa Smeralda, the coast of the “rich and beautiful.” Along the way, you’ll pass many stunningly beautiful bays and beaches, so have your swimsuit handy. In the late afternoon, you’ll take the ferry from Palau to the unique La Maddalena archipelago. Boat trips, bike tours, and beach hopping await you.

Sardinia-Sights-North-Stintino-La-Pelosa_1

After two nights on La Maddalena, it’s time to return to the main island. Be sure to stop at Capo Testa and marvel at the bizarre rock formations and romantic bays. The route now takes you along the beautiful Costa Paradiso before you reach the town of Castelsardo, built into the hill. Stroll through the narrow streets and admire the view of the sea.

The next morning, you should get up early and continue your journey to Stintino. One of the island’s most beautiful beaches, La Pelosa, awaits you. Over the next two days, you’ll explore the beautiful old town of Alghero and the fascinating Neptune’s Grotto.

You’ll spend the last two days in the east of the island. A good starting point is the small, charming village of Dorgali. From here, you can take a boat trip to the breathtaking cliffs and beaches (e.g., Cala Goloritze) of the east coast in the Gulf of Orosei. It’s best to book your own boat for your trip and travel along the coast independently.

Route suggestion – 10 days in the north

Start in Olbia (1 night)
La Maddalena (2 nights)
Castelsardo (1 night)
Stintino – La Pelosa (1 night)
Alghero (2 nights)
Gulf of Orosei (2 nights)

Who is the 10-day round trip through the north suitable for?

If you want to enjoy stunningly beautiful If you’re looking for beaches, turquoise waters, charming villages, and a variety of activities, the north of Sardinia is perfect for you. We believe this region of the island offers the best all-round package for a truly successful vacation. You can, of course, customize our suggested itinerary (accommodations, stops, activities).

Sardinia Route Planning in Detail – 10 Days in the North

Day 1 – Arrival and Start in Olbia

After a relaxing flight, you’ll arrive in Olbia, Sardinia. Your rental car, which you’ll use to explore Sardinia for the next 10 days, is already waiting for you. Afterwards, you’ll drive to the first accommodation of your trip. There, you can drop off your things, freshen up, and end the day relaxing in Olbia. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the city and enjoy the evening hours in one of the many great restaurants (e.g., Restaurant Be Free or Officina del Gusto). Our tip: ☞ Sardinian pasta workshop, wine tasting and local food*

Hotel tips for Olbia

Jazz Hotel Olbia*
CasAunoE Boutique Hotel*
Hotel Panorama*
Felix Hotel Olbia*

Day 2 – Exploring the Costa Smeralda & La Maddalena

On the second day of your 10-day Sardinia tour, you’ll set off early by car, heading north (Golfo Aranci). Today, a varied exploration tour along the breathtaking Costa Smeralda is on your itinerary. Marvel at the expansive Spiaggia Bianca, explore the hidden bay of Cala Petra Ruja, and explore the posh town of Porto Cervo, also known as a meeting place for the “rich and beautiful.”

After your first highlights of the trip, the tour continues to the port of Pulau, from where you’ll take the ferry to the island of La Maddalena. We were able to buy the tickets on site and hop on the next ferry. The journey only takes about 15 minutes. In the town center, you can stroll through the alleys and enjoy a delicious meal after your day of exploring.

Hotel tips for La Maddalena

Hotel Excelsior*
Grand Hotel Resort&SPA Ma&Ma – Adults Only*
Residence Cala Francese – Case sul mare*

Day 3 – La Maddalena Archipelago

On the third day of your trip, you will explore some of the most beautiful corners of Sardinia. You can decide for yourself whether you want to rent an e-bike and explore the island or take part in a guided tour. You can rent e-bikes at the port of La Maddalena (from €40 per day).

You can easily explore the island by bike and then cycle over to the island of Caprera to visit the stunningly beautiful bay of Cala Coticcio. The beach is one of the most popular on the island and quite crowded during the daytime during peak season.

Popular Tours on La Maddalena

Maddalena Archipelago: Island Hopping, Sailing Tour, and Lunch*
La Maddalena Archipelago Catamaran Tour*
Northern Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip*

Day 4 – North Coast to Castelsardo

Today we’ll take the ferry back to Pulau. Be sure to make a detour to Capo Testa on the northern tip of Sardinia with its many impressive granite cliffs. If the weather is good, you can even discover the coast of Corsica from Capo Testa. Plan at least 1 to 2 hours to explore this unique area. You can also take a guided hike through the Valle della Luna (see hiking tour*).

Santa Teresa Gallura (Italian: Santa Teresa di Gallura) is a pretty coastal town in the very north of Sardinia – with narrow streets, a relaxed atmosphere, and a fantastic view all the way to Corsica. You’ll find cozy cafés and restaurants around the central square, and the town beach, Rena Bianca, is just a few minutes’ walk away.

You’ll then continue your journey along the north coast to Castelsardo. Along the way, you’ll pass countless beaches with fine sand and turquoise water (e.g., Costa Paradiso). In the late afternoon, you’ll reach the hilltop village of Castelsardo with its colorful house facades. Explore the medieval old town and end the day comfortably in one of the restaurants (e.g. Ristorante Il Bounty).

Hotel tips for Castelsardo

B&B Casa Doria*
New Suites Sea View*
Bajaloglia Resort*
Romantic Loft in the Old Town*

Day 5 – Dream Beach La Pelosa

The early bird catches the worm? Don’t worry, you don’t have to move on at 7 a.m. First, enjoy a relaxed breakfast in your accommodation before your tour continues today via Porto Torres to Stintino. The peninsula awaits you with one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire island, La Pelosa. The sand here is particularly fine, and the water is brilliant blue and crystal-clear (excursion tip: kayak trip to La Pelosa and Asinara* or half-day catamaran tour to La Pelosa*).

Important for your visit: During the season (June 1 – September 30), a maximum of 1,500 people per day are allowed to visit the beach (adult admission: €3.50, children up to 12 years free). You should definitely register online in advance to secure a ticket. Tickets sell out very quickly during peak season. You will also need something to put your towel on (e.g., a raffia mat). This is to prevent too much of the fine sand from being eroded over time.

Hotel tips for Stintino

Residence Capo Falcone Stintino*
Residenza Cala Rosa*
UNAHOTELS Club Hotel Ancora*
Ancóramare*

Day 6 – Strolling through Alghero

After a few great days on You’re now reaching Alghero, the fifth-largest city on Sardinia. Stroll through the winding streets of the old town and discover the medieval architecture and the many charming squares. In the old town, you’ll find numerous restaurants, cafés, shops, and markets. Here you can shop to your heart’s content and pick up a souvenir or two.

You can explore the most important sights, such as the old city walls, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the Church of San Michele, in just a few hours. End the evening at the traditional harbor and enjoy the maritime atmosphere. Just 10 kilometers north of Alghero are the impressive sandstone rock tombs, which are part of the Anghelu Ruju necropolis and can be visited.

Hotel tips for Alghero

F53 Kevin’s Charming Houses*
Panorama Guest House*
Casa Filuga – City Centre*
Luxury Liberty House*

Day 7 – Exploring Alghero & Surroundings

Today you have plenty of time to explore more of Alghero. Another popular excursion is a visit to Capo Caccia, where the imposing limestone cliffs rise from the turquoise sea and the famous Neptune’s Grotto is located (admission: €14 for adults, €10 for children). The Neptune’s Grotto at Capo Caccia stretches over an impressive length of about 4 kilometers and forms a fascinating cave system.

You can reach the grotto either by bus, by car from Alghero, or by boat tour. If you’re traveling during peak months, be sure to reserve tickets online in advance: Click here to reserve. Generally, you can spend today as you please and also take part in many other guided tours. Whether it’s a horse ride, a cooking class in the old town, a bike tour or wine tasting – there’s plenty to experience.

Popular tours in Alghero

Alghero: Historical city walking tour with a local guide*
Golfo Aranci: Kayak tour with dolphins and aperitif*
Alghero: Sardinian home cooking and meal*
City walk & Wine tour in Alghero*

Day 8 – Journey to the East

After two nights in Alghero, it’s time to move on. Today, the longest stretch of your trip awaits you, as you travel across the island to the east, to Cala Gonone. The journey takes just under 2.5 hours and takes you through the hilly interior of Sardinia. Along the way, you can marvel at the granite mountain Monte Ortobene, which rises 955 meters above sea level.

A winding panoramic road later leads from Dorgali to the popular coaltimore town of Cala Conone. You can stay either in Cala Gonone or in the small village of Dorgali. Cala Gonone is a good starting point for numerous boat tours to the island’s most beautiful beaches and hikes through the imposing Supramonte Mountains. It’s also more touristy here.

Hotel tips for Dorgali & Cala Gonone

B&B Dimora Dorgali*
Palazzo Santa Caterina*
Hotel Ristorante La Conchiglia*
Dolcecasa*

Day 9 – Boat Tour along the East Coast

Your last full day is upon you, and today you’re off on a really cool boat tour. You can either rent a boat yourself (Rent a Boat Cala Gonone*) and explore the beautiful beaches and bays of the east coast on your own, or you can join a guided tour. The starting point for your adventure is the port of Cala Gonone.

Cala Gonone is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. The most famous of these is Cala Luna, but Cala Sisine and Cala Mariolu are also true paradises with turquoise waters and secluded bays. On a self-guided boat tour, you can stop in every bay and at every beach as you please.

Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Rafting Trip with Skipper*
From Cala Gonone: Gorropu Gorge Trekking with Lunch*
Excursion to the Grotta del Bue Marino*

Day 10 – Return and Departure

The last morning in Sardinia. Wow! What a great trip. You’ve now spent 10 days traveling through northern Sardinia and visited many beautiful places. With your suitcase bulging with memories and experiences, you’re now making your way back to Olbia. The route takes you along the SS 125 Orientale Sarda through some beautiful landscapes. Back in Olbia, you’ll return your rental car and fly home.

If you still have time on your way to Olbia, we recommend a stop in the small village of San Teodoro. There, you’ll not only get delicious ice cream (e.g., at Cono il gelato buono), but you can also take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful La Cinta beach. Porto Taverna with the offshore island of Tavolara and the flamingos in the lagoons is also worth a detour.

Alternative travel routes:

10-day Sardinia round trip in the south

Not only the north of Sardinia offers a variety of adventures, the south also has a lot to offer. Your trip begins in the island capital, Cagliari, where you can gather your first impressions of the city. Stroll through the picturesque old town, discover local markets and shops, and enjoy Sardinian cuisine in one of the many restaurants.

Then start your road trip towards Villasimius. Stunningly beautiful beaches and bays await you, as well as the Capo Carbonara nature reserve, where you can enjoy a fantastic hike to the tip of the small peninsula. Boat trips and snorkeling tours are also high on the list. Beach holidays are a top priority on the Costa Rei. The Royal Coast stretches over 10 kilometers and offers extensive, beautiful beaches.

The journey continues up the coast to Santa Maria Navarrese, a pretty little town on the east coast. Rent a small boat for a day and explore the east coast around the popular Cala Goloritzé, Cala Luna, and the unique rock needle Pedra Longa. After this eventful adventure, the route continues westward to the Sinis Peninsula. Look forward to flamingos, breathtaking viewpoints, and the famous rice paddies.

On this route through the south, you’ll also explore another island, St. Antioco. This offshore island near Carbonia-Igelesias is located on the southwestern tip of Sardinia and surprises with a rugged rocky coastline, picturesque bays and the pretty capital Sant’Antioco. Afterwards, we return to Cagliari with a stopover in the charming village of Pula.

Route suggestion – 10 days in the south

Start in Cagliari (2 nights)
Costa Rei (2 nights)
Santa Maria Navarrese (2 nights)
Sinis Peninsula / Oristano (2 nights)
Carbonia / Sant’Antioco (1 night)

Who is the 10-day round trip through the south suitable for?

The This 10-day tour through the south of Sardinia is ideal for beach lovers and water lovers. Numerous beaches and stunningly beautiful bays await you. The south of Sardinia is popular for a relaxing summer and beach holiday. The mix of city and beach is almost perfect in the south of the island. The scenic highlights are definitely not neglected here either.

Sardinia Route Planning in Detail – 10 Days in the South

Day 1 – Arrival in Cagliari

After your arrival, you’ll head to the hotel. Here you can drop off your luggage and freshen up before taking your first walk through the old town of Cagliari. Almost 150,000 people live in the island’s capital, yet most of the city’s highlights are within walking distance. First, get an overview and enjoy the wonderful view over the city’s rooftops from Monte Urpinu.

Then head to the city’s oldest quarter – Castello. There you’ll find the imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria, the so-called Tower of the Elephant, and the Bastion of Saint Remy. All three of Cagliari’s sights are just a few minutes’ walk from the Terrazza Umberto I. From this square, you can also enjoy a fantastic view of the city.

You can now end the evening comfortably in one of the many restaurants. How about some delicious Sardinian food, for example? The Sa Domu Sarda restaurant is just a 10-minute walk from the bastion.

Hotel tips for Cagliari

Suites Garibaldi*
Albergo Diffuso Birkin Castello*
Residenza le Scalette*
Bleisure Inn*

Day 2 – Exploring Cagliari

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, your second day on the island begins. In the morning, head to the popular San Benedetto market, which is open daily (except Sundays) from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sample local specialties and browse the wide range of fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, cheese, bread, and pastries. Afterwards, we continue to Via S. Saturnino, a street known for street art, murals, and graffiti.

In the afternoon, you can check out the popular Poetto Beach and take a dip in the cool water yourself. The approximately 8-kilometer-long main beach is very popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s ideal for families with children. In the evening, you can take a leisurely stroll along the harbor before rounding off the day with a delicious dinner.

Popular tours of Cagliari

Guided walking tour of the old town of Cagliari*
Cagliari: Underground walking tour of Cagliari*
3-hour boat tour through the Gulf of Cagliari*
Sardinia: Cooking class – Fresh handmade pasta*

Day 3 – Drive to Villasimius + Capo Carbonara

You now start your short round trip from Cagliari. The panoramic Strada Provinciale 17 road winds along the sea to Villasimius. Along the way, you’ll pass many beautiful beaches and stunning viewpoints. Once you arrive in the small fishing village of Villasimius, you can stroll through the small town center and visit one or two shops.

The most beautiful place is the harbor, where you can not only enjoy delicious food, but also book various snorkeling tours and boat excursions. Here you can even rent small motorboats and go exploring. The popular “Spiaggia di Porto Giunco” beach is also nearby, impressing with its expansiveness and fine sand. The “Spiaggia di Punta Molentis” beach is also very popular.

In the afternoon, you shouldn’t miss a trip to “Capo Carbonara.” From the parking lot, it takes just under 25 minutes to reach the tip of the cape. Beautiful views of the sea and the coast await you. Along the way, you can detour to the beaches of Cala Burroni or Cala Burroni for a swim. Plan a total of 60 minutes for the hike.

Hotel tips for Villasimius & Costa Rei

Cruccùris Resort – Adults Only*
La Vela Summer House*
Domu Simius Hotel*
Hotel Mariposas*

Day 4 – Beach Day on the Costa Rei

Today, a relaxing beach day is on the agenda. The Costa Rei, also called the “King’s Coast”, awaits you with over 10 kilometers of sandy beach and numerous bays. To the north, this coastline is bordered by Capo Ferrato, while to the south, you will find the rocky and sandy bays of Sant’Elmo. The hilly hinterland with its evergreen maquis plants and imposing granite rocks is particularly impressive.

Our beach tips: Cala Sinzias, Spiaggia Sant’ Elmo, Spiaggia di Santa Giusta, Lagune Piscina Re & Spiaggia di Cala Monte Turno.

Popular tours and excursions from Villasimius

Villasimius: Snorkeling tour in Capo Carbonara*
Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area Guided Kayak Tour*
4×4 tour to Villasimius and the beaches*

Day 5 – Santa Maria Navarrese + Pedra Longa

After your relaxing beach day at the Costa Rei, the road trip now continues. From your accommodation you will now drive to the charming coastal town of Santa Maria Navarrese, whereIt’s an excellent base for exploring the Orosei cliffs. In Santa Maria Navarrese, you’ll find plenty of accommodations, restaurants, a beautiful beach promenade, shops, and a small marina.

From Santa Maria Navarrese, it’s only 8.5 kilometers to the impressive Pedra Longa rock needle, which is approximately 128 meters high and is one of the highest on the island. It was declared a natural monument in 1993. You can drive to the cliff, park there, and explore the area on foot. There’s also the Trattoria Pedra Longa restaurant with a wonderful view; Reservations during the season are recommended.

Hotel tips for Santa Maria Navarrese

B&B Antico Telaio*
Scirocco a pochi passi dal mare*
Appartamenti Nonna Rosa*
B&B Elianto*

Day 6 – Boat Tour on the Gulf of Orosei

The next day, another highlight awaits you. At the marina in Santa Maria Navaresse or in Cala Gonone, you’ll get a small motorboat for the day (rent a boat here*). Many bays and beaches along the east coast can only be reached by water (hiking is also possible), which is why a boat tour is a good option. Highlights include the Pedra Longa rock needle, the beautiful bays of Cala Goloritzé, Cala Sisine, Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu.

The boat ride was incredibly fun and we can only recommend this tour to you. If you prefer a guided tour, that’s no problem at all. There are plenty of providers locally or online. The rocky coast is unique and hides many beautiful beaches and bays. We would definitely book such a tour again!

Popular tours along the east coast

Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Rafting trip with skipper*
Santa Maria Navarrese: Goloritzè, Mariolu, & Biriala Cruise*
Gulf of Orosei: Sailing around the coast*

Day 7 – Trip to Oristano

On day 7 of your 10-day Sardinia tour, you leave the east coast and head west. The journey through the hilly interior to Oristano takes just under 2 hours. The city has around 31,000 inhabitants and is one of the island’s most authentic towns. Enjoy the cozy ambience of the historic old town and end the day comfortably in one of the many restaurants (recommendation: Pizzeria Civico 35).

Hotel tips for Oristano/Sinis

Albergo Residenziale Menhirs*
Welcomely – Cocco e Dessi Home*
B&B Su Soi*
Holiday Room Sa Tebia*

Day 8 – Exploring the Sinis Peninsula

Today, another scenic highlight awaits you. This morning, you’ll set off from Oristano by rental car to the beautiful Sinis Peninsula, which is only about 19 km long and up to 8 km wide. With a bit of luck, you might see flamingos here!

A must-do is a trip to Capo San Marco, where you can enjoy the incredibly beautiful view of the sea and the beaches from the tower (Torre spagnola di San Giovanni di Sinis). If you continue a little further along this path, you’ll reach the lighthouse (Faro di Capo San Marco) at the end of the peninsula.

However, there’s more to discover on the Sinis Peninsula. We recommend a detour to the beaches Spiaggia di Is Arutas and Mari Ermi. Here, you won’t find ordinary sandy beaches, but rather small quartz pebbles in the most beautiful colors, roughly the size of a grain of rice.

This is why they are often referred to as “rice grain beaches,” as you’ll surely discover during your research on the peninsula. The turquoise and crystal-clear sea makes these beaches absolutely dreamy, easily rivaling those in the Caribbean.

Popular Tours from Oristano

Oristano: Guided visit to an olive grove with tasting*
Sardinia: Nuraghe Losa entrance ticket and guided tour*
Exploring the Sinis Peninsula by mountain bike*

Day 9 – Off to Sant’Antioco

In the morning, you leave your accommodation and head to the islands of Sant’Antioco and San Pietro. The two islands await you with stunningly beautiful bays (e.g., Cala Sapone), pretty towns, a rugged rocky coastline, and unusual rock formations. Admire the colorful houses of the main town of Sant’Antioco, stroll through the small town of Calasetta, dive into the natural pool of L’Arco dei Baci, or marvel at the cliffs of Capo Sandalo.

Sant’Antioco is easily accessible by car or bicycle via a road from the mainland, while for the smaller island of San Pietro, you’ll need to take the ferry from Portovesme (45 minutes) or Calasetta (30 minutes). Tickets for pedestrians cost from €8 to €9 per person, while cars pay between €20 and €30, depending on their length.

Hotel tips around Carbonia

A Casa Di Angela B&B*
Montellino’s Suite Oro*
Hotel Aquadulci*
Moon’s Tower suite&rooms*

Day 10 – Detour to Pula and Departure

On the last day of your trip, you will travel along the south coast to Cagliari. You will pass many great highlights along the way. Be sure to drive along the sea on the scenic road SS71. Take one last dip in the cool water at the beautiful Spiaggia di Tuerredda, take a lunch break at Su Giudeu Beach, and stroll through the picturesque town of Pula to round off your 10-day Sardinia tour.

Your Sardinia tour ends in Cagliari after 10 exciting days. From here, you’ll fly back home. Our itinerary is only a suggestion and can be customized. Perhaps you’d like to add a few more days?

Alternative itineraries:

Costs of a 10-day Sardinia tour

The costs of a 10-day Sardinia tour can vary greatly depending on your travel budget, travel dates, travel style, and personal preferences. Prices are significantly higher during peak season (June, July, and August). Here is a rough estimate of the main expenses for a couple’s trip in September:

Accommodation: Accommodation costs depend on the type of accommodation, from simple hostels and bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Prices per night can range from €50 to over €150 per person, depending on the location and standard of the accommodation.

Food: Meal costs vary depending on whether you prefer to eat in restaurants or cook from scratch. You can budget between €20 and €50 per person per day for food and drinks.

Transportation: Rental car prices vary depending on the season and vehicle type, but expect to pay an average of €40 to €100 per day. A rental car for 10 days in September currently costs just €240 (€120 per person).

Activities: The costs for activities such as boat tours, entrance fees to attractions, and water sports can vary, but you should expect to pay an average of €20 to €50 per day per person.

Overall, the total cost for a 10-day tour of Sardinia could range between €1,400 and €2,000 per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. We spent €1,400 per person on our 15-day tour (entire island) (including flights, rental car, accommodations, meals, excursions, and fuel). More information here: Costs for our Sardinia tour.

General travel tips for Sardinia

Getting to Sardinia

The island has three international airports: Cagliari Airport (in the south), Olbia Airport (in the northeast), and Alghero Airport (in the northwest). These airports are well connected to various cities in Italy and other European countries. From there, you can rent a car or use public transport. Book your flight ticket here*.

If you are traveling with your own vehicle or simply want to experience a ferry crossing, you can take a ferry to Sardinia from various Italian ports. The main ferry ports in Sardinia are Porto Torres (in the northwest), Olbia (in the northeast), and Cagliari (in the south). Ferry connections from Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Naples are particularly popular. More information here: Travel to Sardinia by ferry.

Best time to visit Sardinia

The best time to visit Sardinia is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasantly mild and the crowds are smaller. During this time, you can explore the island in peace and enjoy nature in all its splendor or in its warm autumn colors.

The summer months (June to August) are also popular, but the beaches and tourist attractions can be crowded. Temperatures often rise above 30°C. During the winter (December to February), Sardinia is very quiet, but the weather can also be very changeable. In addition, tourist facilities are mostly closed.

IMPORTANT: If you are traveling to Sardinia during peak season, you should book your accommodations and activities in advance. Since Italians also have holidays and many of them vacation on the island, the island is very crowded from mid-June to mid-September. More about this here: Best time to travel to Sardinia.

Rental car & Driving

In general, driving in Sardinia is quite easy and pleasant, especially outside of the larger cities. The main roads in Sardinia are generally well maintained and well signposted. On secondary roads or in rural areas, the roads can be narrower and occasionally uneven.

If you drive into the mountainous regions of Sardinia, you may have to negotiate tight bends and steep roads. Therefore, be extra careful and watch out for oncoming vehicles. Otherwise, driving in Sardinia is no different than driving in Germany.

While parking is free in many places outside of the season, you will be charged during the season (June 1st – September 30th). It can be very expensive on some beaches. We last didn’t have to pay for parking in May. Tip: You can also use the “EasyPark” app in many areas of Sardinia.

Blue markings: Parking ticket required
White markings: Free parking
Yellow-black markings: No parking
Yellow stripes: Parking for taxis and buses

Speed limits in Sardinia:

Within towns: 50 km/h
On country roads: 90 km/h
On motorways: 130 km/h

Payment and Credit Card

It is always advisable to carry some cash with you, especially for small purchases, markets, or shops that may not accept card payments. You can withdraw cash from ATMs, which can be found in most cities and larger towns. Make sure your credit or debit card is enabled for foreign withdrawals and be aware of any foreign withdrawal fees charged by your bank.

Credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants, hotels, and gas stations in Sardinia, especially in tourist areas. Major cards such as Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. We always carry our Hanseatic Bank* credit card (for the rental car), our DKB Bank* debit cards, and our AMEX*. More on the topic of travel credit cards.

Sardinia Packing List

Of course, you don’t really need anything special for your Sardinia trip. However, if you’re traveling to the island in summer, you should definitely pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a beach towel, and a snorkeling set. It’s also recommended to bring a small daypack for excursions, sturdy shoes for bike rides or hikes, and a waterproof dry bag.

As for clothing, it’s different for everyone, so we don’t want to give you specific tips. In May, we wore almost exclusively light and short clothing because it was very warm. We occasionally wore a sweater only in the evenings, simply because it was more comfortable.

What we packed for our Sardinia tour:

Sardinia Travel Guide

Are you still looking for a suitable travel guide for your Sardinia trip? We can recommend the travel guide from DuMont Verlag* and the travel guide from Marco Polo*. Both accompanied us during our time on the island, and we frequently consulted them, especially on longer car journeys.

If you prefer more detailed information, the travel guide from Michael Müller Verlag* is a good choice. However, we also like to use Google Maps for travel planning to mark interesting places we’d like to visit in advance.