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Ciaran Connolly
Ciaran Connolly
Sardinia is an Italian jewel in the Mediterranean Sea. In terms of size, it is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, so it has a variety of destinations to stay in, including cities, towns, and villages. In terms of culture, it was a stronghold of the ancient Roman Empire, so it boasts interesting historical monuments. Accordingly, Sardinia is one of the top destinations in Italy, if not in the world, for spending a holiday full of life.
To spend a holiday as it should be, we provide you with everything you need to know about Sardinia in this guide to Sardinia, starting from the preparation for the trip, followed by the top destinations and beaches there, and ending with a list of the top dishes in Sardinia. It is the ultimate guide to your Sardinian holiday; just prepare your luggage and take notes!
Guide to Sardinia – How to Get There
Visa Requirements
To enter Italy, visitors from the European Union need to produce a national identity card or passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Other visitors need to produce a valid passport issued by their home country.
If you stay up to 90 days, there are no visa requirements. European Union citizens intending to stay longer than 90 days must obtain “permission of stay.”
Citizens of countries within the Schengen area can visit Italy, but they need to get a passport stamp on entry as proof of official arrival. The Italian State Police website provides visa details; contact the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country for further details.
How to Get to Sardinia?
Sardinia has three airports:
- Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport in the northeast of Sardinia.
- Alghero-Fertilia “Riviera del Corallo” Airport in the northwest of Sardinia.
- Cagliari-Elmas Airport in the south of Sardinia.
International flights arrive at these airports from different cities around the world. Cagliari Elmas Airport is the main international airport in Sardinia, and it is connected to most major European destinations. The Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport links 14 countries to Sardinia. Alghero-Fertilia Airport is a small airport that is a gateway to the northwest regions of Sardinia.
There are no direct flights from Australia or New Zealand to Italy, so the alternative solution is to fly to Rome or Milan and then change to a domestic flight to Sardinia.
Most domestic flights to Sardinia come from Rome, but there are several flights from other Italian regions, including Milan, Palermo, Pisa, Venice, Naples, Catania, Bari, Turin, Verona, and Bologna.
Weather: The Best Time to Visit Sardinia
Sardinia has a Mediterranean climate, which experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters. The hottest month of the year is July, the most incredible month is January, the driest month is August, and the wettest month is January. So, the best time to visit Sardinia is between June and August, especially if you enjoy hot sunny days, and the best time to enjoy the beach is from June to October.
The peak season in Sardinia is, undoubtedly, the summer months: June, July, August, and the first half of September. This is the time when the island gets the highest number of tourists. As pleasant as it is, the summer is the most expensive time to visit in terms of flights, ferry tickets, and accommodation.
Where to Stay? Top Destinations in Sardinia
As an oversized island, Sardinia has everything for every taste. There are different kinds of destinations for travellers, and they all promise a non-forgettable holiday. Below are 5 of the best destinations in Sardinia for your holiday:
1- Cagliari: Best for First-Time Visit
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia, located in the south of the island. It is a beautiful city with endless appeal, characterised by delightful architecture and gorgeous beaches. If you are visiting Sardinia for the first time, Cagliari is a good destination for making numerous unforgettable memories.
Cagliari is an antique city infused with ancient history, which can be seen everywhere. For example, there is the Roman Amphitheatre, the striking Royal Palace, and the haunting ruins of the Necropolis of Tuvixeddu. Exploring the local culture and the ancient remnants is one of the best experiences ever.
Cagliari is also a city of stunning scenery, a vibrant atmosphere, and perfect beaches. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, where you can unwind in exceptional natural surroundings.
2- Costa Smeralda: A Luxurious Holiday
Costa Smeralda is probably the most well-known area in Sardinia for its glamorous resorts and beaches. It is the perfect destination for a luxurious holiday and a high-life experience. Costa Smeralda is considered the most expensive location in Europe.
Costa Smeralda is located in northern Sardinia, stretching over ten kilometres between the Gulf of Cugnana and the Bay of Arzachena.
Costa Smeralda boasts white-sand beaches with turquoise waters, golf clubs, private helicopter services, high-end restaurants and bars, luxury yachts, and exclusive hotels. All these and more make Costa Smeralda a unique destination that attracts VIPs and affluent visitors.
3- Villasimius: Best Destination for Diving
Located about 35 kilometres east of Cagliari, Villasimius has a rich culture and incredible tourist attractions that attract people worldwide. It is a traditional coastal village with gorgeous beaches and diving sites, making it the perfect destination for diving junkies.
Villasimius is the pearl of Sardinia’s south. It boasts some of the most sensational beaches in Sardinia, all blessed with gorgeous blue waters and white sand. The breathtaking scenery of Villasimius includes glimmering crystal-clear waters coloured by intense shades of blue, lagoons, wonderful granite cliffs, enchanting coves, and verdant hills.
Villasimius has every kind of beach resort every vacationer dreams of. Behind the fantastic beaches are marshes, salt pans, and flamingos. Moreover, the Marine Protected Area Capo Carbonara has excellent diving sites where you can see barracuda and seagrass meadows. The archaeological museum of Villasimius also features an exhibit on treasures found at the bottom of the sea.
4- Alghero: Admirable Historical Site
Located in northwestern Sardinia, Alghero is one of the best medieval cities on the island. It is a vibrant historic site with many excellent restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It is the perfect destination for those looking to explore historical sites besides having fun on the beaches.
Alghero has much to offer, including interesting archaeological sites and towers. Walking through the old town and admiring the tiny houses, the cobbled streets, and the fantastic churches will be an unforgettable experience.
The sea walls protecting Alghero are among the city’s historic cityscapes. Built in the 16th century, they run from Piazza Sulis in the south to Porta a Mare and the marina in the north. A walkway for pedestrians crowned them, offering spectacular views over the blue sea.
5- Orosei: Charming Village
Orosei is a picturesque small town in the Province of Nuoro in east Sardinia. It is one of the best spots to stay while in Sardinia, and it is the perfect fit for different kinds of travellers.
Orosei boasts some 20 miles of beaches and coves along the Gulf of Orosei, home to some of the most stunning beaches in Italy.
Orosei offers picturesque beaches and a rich historical heritage. It is a great place to walk through cobblestoned streets and admire the beauty of natural monuments and old houses. This charming village will take you on an adventure to discover Sardinia’s remarkable, ancient culture.
Best Beaches in Sardinia
Sardinia boasts many spectacular beaches along its coasts from north to south and east to west. Below are 10 of the most beautiful beaches in different parts of Sardinia.
1- Cala Goloritzé
Located in the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Goloritzé is a small cove considered one of Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches.
The beach was created by a landslide in 1962. It is known for a 143-metre-tall pinnacle rising above it. The beach also boasts unique rock formations, especially a beautiful arch at the southern end.
With endless white pebbles, vibrant blue waters, Mediterranean shrubs, and a forest of holm oaks, Cala Goloritzé tops the list of Sardinia’s best beaches. Besides, the water in Cala Goloritzé is incredibly transparent, and you will have good visibility even when it is 15 meters deep. Thus, it is a perfect place for swimming and snorkelling.
2- Cala Brandinchi
Located in north-western Sardinia between Olbia and San Teodoro, Cala Brandinchi is one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia. It is often called “Little Tahiti” because of its crystal-clear waters.
Cala Brandinchi is a wonderful cove featuring 700 metres of powdery white sand and shallow waters perfect for swimming. The rock formations emerging from the waters provide the perfect environment for marine species, making Cala Brandinchi a perfect place for snorkelling.
Besides, the beach is surrounded by Mediterranean pine woods, creating a serene atmosphere, and small dunes behind the beach protect it from strong winds.
The easiest way to Cala Brandinchi from Olbia and San Teodoro is by car, which can also be accessed by bike or bus.
3- Chia Beach
Located on the south coast of Sardinia, Chia Beach is one of the country’s most iconic beaches. The beach features turquoise, crystal-clear waters that meet fascinating peach-coloured sand. The clear water is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.
There is a beautiful lagoon behind the beach where you can spot cute pink flamingos. Dolphins can also occasionally be seen swimming in the pristine sea. In addition, Chia Beach is sided with golden dunes dotted with beautiful juniper trees, which shelter the beach from the wind.
4- Porto Giunco
Porto Giunco Beach is located in Southwestern Sardinia, about 40 km from Cagliari and just a short distance from Villasimius. It is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
Porto Giunco Beach features clear, shallow waters that meet soft white and pink sand. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming, and their transparency makes them perfect for snorkelling and diving. There is so much marine life to admire in Porto Giunco.
At the back of the beach is a lagoon called “the Stagno di Notteri,” which is home to beautiful pink flamingos and other birds. In addition, there are Mediterranean shrubs behind the lagoon, including some juniper and eucalyptus trees.
5- Principe Beach
Principe Beach is one of Costa Smeralda’s most popular and beautiful beaches. With its crescent shape, it stretches into a small cove bordered by rocks and surrounded by Mediterranean shrubs. The beach’s name is related to the Arab prince Aga Khan, who discovered it.
Principe Beach is a white sandy beach that boasts amazing, clear, blue waters. It is also a good place for snorkelling as several species of fish swim in its shallow waters.
The beach is divided by rocks in its middle and extends out into the ocean for about 250 metres. Besides, the beach is surrounded by mountains, which give it a comfortable atmosphere.
6- Tuerredda Beach
Tuerredda Beach is a V-shaped beach stretching over 500 metres on the south coast of Sardinia, about 58 kilometres from Cagliari. Thanks to its shape, it is a rustic beach sheltered from the wind.
Although it is small, Tuerredda Beach boasts breathtaking natural beauty. It offers spectacular views over Isola di Tuerredda, located 150 meters off the coast. Besides, it overlooks a breathtaking sea view in all shades of blue.
Tuerredda Beach features fine white sand and clear waters that reach depths of a few meters. Therefore, it is ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
7- La Pelosa Beach
La Pelosa Beach is located on the westernmost tip of Sardinia, in the Gulf of Asinara, 2 kilometres from Stintino. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, Italy, and Europe. Stretching 300 metres, the beach offers splendid views.
La Pelosa Beach features white sand and shallow turquoise waters, making it suitable for swimming and diving. Two diving centres are near the beach and a windsurfing centre where you can rent surfboards and canoes.
The beach has an ancient watchtower dating back to 1578. It was part of the marine defence system in Sardinia. The tower symbolises the beach and can be reached on foot.
8- Cala Domestica
Cala Domestica Beach is a hidden gem on the south-western coast of Sardinia. It stretches 60 metres in an area that used to be a mining site, and some ruins remain, making the beach surreal.
Cala Domestica Beach is perfect for basking, relaxing, and swimming in the clear waters. It features rich marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving.
A rocky path on the right-hand side of the beach leads to a smaller beach called “Cala Lunga.” It is 20 metres wide and can reach past a cave in the rocks. Cala Lunga is less windy than Cala Domestica and more private.
9- Spiaggia Rosa
Spiaggia Rosa, or Pink Beach, is a unique beach, a natural masterpiece, and a paradise on Earth. It is located on Budelli Island on the northernmost tip of Sardinia. Unspoiled, this beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Spiaggia Rosa owes its name to the colour of its sand. The sand is white with a pinkish hue due to fragments of sea shells, corals, and molluscs that the waves carry. The pink sand meets the pristine waters frontward and the fantastic Mediterranean vegetation behind.
Spiaggia Rosa is a private and preserved beach where visitors are forbidden to rest, and boats are forbidden to moor. In the early 1990s, the authorities closed access to the beach to preserve it, and no one could approach it, whether by land or sea. However, it is now possible to admire the beauty of this beach by boat and from a distance.
10- Is Aruttas Beach
Located on the west coast of Sardinia, Is Aruttas is a splendid beach and a popular summer destination. The beach is situated near the small town of Oristano but is surrounded by wildness; there are only some beautiful Mediterranean shrubs around.
Aruttas Beach is an arc featuring translucent, pristine waters that meet white sand made of tiny white and pinkish quartz pebbles. The sand of this beach is its most exotic feature; it is so soft that it resembles little grains of rice, and it glows in the sun. The water is incredibly transparent, and the seabed is rocky, which makes the beach a perfect spot for snorkelling.
The beach stretches 480 metres and is part of the Protected Marine Area of the Sinis Peninsula. Spectacular rock formations line each side of the beach. Some people climb the rocks for panoramic views or even to jump.
Food: Top Dishes in Sardinian Cuisine
A holiday is never complete without hearty food; a holiday in Sardinia promises such an experience. Sardinian cuisine grabs everything with a unique twist. You will find starters, snacks, main dishes, and desserts with exceptional tastes. Below is a list of 5 hearty dishes from Sardinia that you should not miss during your holiday; take notes!
1- Culurgiones
Culurgiones are a delicious plate of stuffed pasta that originated in Sardinia. The pasta is stuffed with potatoes, pecorino cheese, mint, olive oil, garlic, and animal fat. Sometimes, a topping of sweet tomato sauce is added for extra flavour.
2- Spezzatino di Vitello con Piselli
“Spezzatino di Vitello con Piselli” is the Italian translation for “Veal Stew with Peas.” As simple as its name, this dish comprises a veal stew served with peas. However, it has a rich and robust flavour you will never forget. This traditional Sardinian dish is originally from the countryside.
3- Pane Carasau
“Pane Carasau,” which means “toasted bread,” is a classic starter in Sardinia. It is a thin, crispy flatbread that can be eaten dry or wet with water or sauce. Pane Carasau is a perfect snack or brunch that can be eaten on its own or accompanied by cheese and meat. The “Sardinian cracker” is often called for its thin and crispy texture.
4- Seadas
Seada is a must-try rustic Sardinian dessert. It comprises a large ravioli filled with fresh Pecorino cheese and lemon peel. It is then deep-fried in olive oil until it gets a golden colour. It is served with honey and sugar drizzled over the top, which gives the dessert its sweetness.
5- Zuppa Gallurese
Zuppa Gallurese is a traditional dish from Sardinia’s northwest, particularly Gallura, partly similar to lasagne. It comprises some meat broth with pecorino cheese and some species, including parsley, onion, mint, celery, and dried tomatoes. All these ingredients are added amid layers of stale bread, making it a unique and mouthwatering dish.
