Where To Stay In Sardinia: Best Areas for First Timers
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Figuring out where to stay in Sardinia is no small task!
Especially because Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Located right above Sicily, on the west side of Italy, this island is so damn pretty that it’s where the Italians ‘escape’ the mainland tourist spots to go on vacation!
Obviously, when I learned this, I had to test out the waters for myself. I ended up doing a massive road trip through Sardinia for a month in April, which was unique because I got a chance to experience Easter (Pascua) in a more authentic old-school Italian way. Anyway, the bottom line is the island is stunning, but it is also HUGE!
In terms of where to stay in Sardinia, my favorite areas were the northern beaches of the Costa Smeralda and the Maddalena Archipelago and the southern beaches near Villasimius and the city of Cagliari. I ended up staying a week in each of the 4 areas below and loved it.
QUICK GUIDE: BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SARDINIA
📍Best Spot For Beaches (North) – Costa Smeralda – Le Ville Le Saline
📍Best Spot For Families (South East) – Villasimius – Hotel Simius Playa
📍Best Spot For Couples (North East) – Arbatax – Hotel La Bitta (the cutest spot!)
📍Best Spot Without A Car (West) – Alghero – Alghero Casa Blue Sea View
Sardinia is known for its pretty beaches, but there are also surprisingly large mountain ranges, and prehistoric ruins dating back to the Bronze Age. Beyond that, what drew me to the island is the lifestyle – people here live until the ripe old age of a healthy 100-year-old or more, and it’s known to be one of those magical places on earth!
So in this post, I’ll cover what it’s like to stay in each area (what makes it unique), the cities to consider as a home base, the pros and cons, and a few recommendations for my favorite hotels/B&Bs (plus a few of my favorite restaurants and classic Sardinian foods to try!). Let’s dive into where to stay so you can get planning!
🏖️ Where to Stay in Sardinia for Beaches
🏖️ Costa Smeralda – Beautiful Beaches, Luxury Resorts
✈️ Closest Airport: Olbia
Costa Smeralda, also known as the “Emerald Coast,” is a stretch of coastline in northern Sardinia, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and beautiful beaches. It is a popular holiday spot for the rich and famous of Italy and is known for its luxury resorts, yachts, and high-end shopping.
Maddalena Archipelago is a group of islands located off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, just above Costa Smeralda, was actually my favorite little section of Costa Smeralda. The archipelago consists of seven main islands, including La Maddalena, Caprera, and Spargi, which are home to beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, and tons of marine life.
Both Costa Smeralda and Maddalena Archipelago are great places to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Sardinia, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, biking, and sunbathing.
Where to Stay In Sardinia For Beaches:
📍Mid-Range Option – Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma
📍Luxury Option – Le Ville Le Saline
👨👩👧👦 Where To Stay In Sardinia With Family
🏖️ Villasimius – Long Sandy Beaches, Hiking, Diving
✈️ Closest Airport: Cagliari (then 1 hour drive to Villasimius)
Villasimius is a coastal town located in the southern part of Sardinia, Italy. It is known for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular holiday destination for both Italians and travelers from around the world. The best part is, no rocks and calm waters for the kids!
The town itself is relatively small, but it has the basic amenities, including shops, grocery stores, restaurants, and tiki bars. The food is a highlight, with fresh seafood and Sardinian specialties like culurgiones (stuffed pasta) and porceddu (roast piglet) being popular options.
BEST BEACHES: Some of the most popular beaches include Punta Molentis, Spiaggia del Riso, and Simius Beach, which is the largest and most well-known.
In addition to sunbathing and swimming, there are plenty of outdoor activities for the family, including hiking, cycling, and water sports like snorkeling and diving. The nearby Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area is also a popular spot for boat tours, hikes, and wildlife watching.
Where to Stay In Sardinia for Family:
📍Mid-Range Option – Boutique Hotel Su Sergenti
📍Luxury Option – Hotel Simius Playa
💖 Where to Stay in Sardinia for Couples
🏖️ Arbatax – Local, Beaches & Seaside Towns
✈️ Closest Airport: Cagliari (then 2 hour drive to Arbatax)
Arbatax is a relatively small seaside town located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, and it reminds me a bit of some of Carmel and the Big Sur Coast in California. We ended up staying a week here on our road trip, but could have stayed a month!
The town is situated in the province of Ogliastra, which is known for its beautiful beaches, rolling hills, a few amazing hikes to hidden coves (like the one below), and in general some pretty damn beautiful natural landscapes – check this out!
Arbatax itself is a small town (and the whole area is filled with little small seaside towns), but it has a cute little beach and several delicious restaurants and bars – perfect for date nights and walking around the town for sunsets. My favorite spots are Ristorante Acquolina for dinner (owned by a Sicilian who really dishes out $5 incredible pizzas) and Il Machellaio for lunch.
PRO TIP: Make reservations for all restaurants for both lunch and dinner – you can call or pop in the day before. I don’t know why the culture of this tiny little town is like this – but such is life when you’re the visitor.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Arbatax is the nearby Cala Luna beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, and Cala Goloritè, which is the one we hiked. Both can be reached by boat from Arbatax or by hiking along a scenic trail.
Other nearby attractions include the Grotte del Bue Marino, a network of caves that can be explored by boat, and the Nuraghe di Orroli, an ancient Nuragic settlement that dates back to the Bronze Age.
Overall, Arbatax and the surrounding area is great for couples who want to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and delicious cuisine of Sardinia.
Where to Stay In Sardinia For Couples
📍Mid-Range Option – Arbatax Borgo Cala Maresca
📍Luxury Option – Hotel La Bitta (the cutest spot!)
🚗 Where to Stay in Sardinia Without A Car
🏖️ Alghero – Spanish influence, pretty beaches, idyllic town
✈️ Closest Airport: Alghero
Obviously, you can stay in the capital city of Cagliari without a car, but why be basic when you can be adventurous? My best recommendation for where to stay if you don’t want to drive is the city of Alghero, located on the northwest coast of the island of Sardinia. It is known for its picturesque old town, pretty beaches, and Catalan-influenced culture. I loved it because it reminded me of Sevilla!
You can fly into the airport at Alghero quite easily and take the bus or taxi into the center. If you land in Cagliari, you can grab a cheap local connecting flight to Alghero, or take the train from Cagliari (4.5 hrs).
One of the most notable features of Alghero is its historic center – surrounded by defensive walls and filled with narrow streets and buildings made of sandstone. It’s full of gelato shops, restaurants, and cute little artisan shops. And tons of flowers!
FUN FACT: The city was founded by the Catalans in the 14th century, and as a result, it has a unique blend of Spanish and Italian influences. This can be seen in the city’s architecture, which includes many Catalan Gothic buildings, and in its cuisine, which features a mix of Mediterranean and Catalan flavors.
Where to Stay In Sardinia Without A Car
📍Mid-Range Option – Alghero Relais Apartment
📍Luxury Option – Alghero Home Casa Blue With Sea View
Where To AVOID In Sardinia
It’s hard to tell on a map, but because I’ve done a month-long road trip through the island, up and down, left to right, there are a few places I would say are not worth including in your stay:
Industrial Port Towns like Porto Torres and Portoscuso: While convenient because this is where ferries land, it’s also a bit ugly.
Deserted villages in the middle of Sardinia: Many small villages in the interior of Sardinia are super small, hard to get to with and without a car, and have nothing to offer a tourist heart in terms of things to do and places to see. Stick to the coastline!
When Is The Best Time To Visit Sardinia?
Anytime between May and October is a great month to visit Sardinia as it’s nice and sunny and bright – in the 90s. I visited in April, and while it was a bit chilly for the beach, I still got a sunburn.
Best Things To Do In Sardinia
Here are some of the best things to do in Sardinia, with a few little favorite gems sprinkled in:
✅ Explore The Beaches
Sardinia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Cala Goloritze, La Pelosa, and Costa Smeralda are some of the most popular beaches on the island.
Here are a few fun facts to know before you head out:
- Open: 7:30 am – 5 pm (cannot start the hike after 3pm)
- Price: Entry tickets are about $6
- Duration: 1.5-hour walk to the beach, mostly downhill. 2-hour walk back up, mostly uphill.
- Hiking Tips: Take lots of water and snacks, and watch for wild animals (goats, pigs) – don’t make eye contact; they won’t hurt you as long as you keep walking.
✅ Visit The Nuraghe
The island’s historical legacy is still evident today in the form of numerous archaeological sites and ancient structures such as the Nuraghe, unique Bronze Age megalithic structures found only in Sardinia.
The nuraghe is a type of ancient stone structure like the one you see below and is considered one of the island’s most important cultural heritage sites.
PRO TIP: Some of these structures are way off the main roads, so if you hit a dirt road and Google keeps telling you to go on… DON’T. We almost got our car stuck down a steep dirt road trying to get to one of these.
✅ Visit Cagliari and Alghero
Cagliari is the capital city of Sardinia in the south and offers a mix of historical landmarks, beautiful beaches, and cute little nightlife. It’s also where you’ll likely land, as this is where the biggest airport on the island is. Visit the Castello district, the National Archaeological Museum, and Poetto Beach.
Alghero is a charming medieval town located on the northwest coast of Sardinia. It is known for its picturesque old town, its Catalan heritage, and its pretty beaches. I personally loved it more than Cagliari, but you never know until you go!
✅ Explore The Maddalena Archipelago
The Maddalena Archipelago is a group of islands off the coast of Sardinia. The archipelago is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters in Europe – am I even allowed to claim that? I think yes 😊.
✅ Try The Local Cuisine
Sardinian cuisine is a unique blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavors. Try the local specialties like porceddu (roasted suckling pig), culurgiones (stuffed pasta), and seadas (a dessert made with cheese and honey).
✅ Hike In The Supramonte Mountains
The Supramonte Mountains are a rugged mountain range located in the center of Sardinia. The area is perfect for hiking and offers breathtaking views of the island. If you like hiking, I also recommend a visit to the town of Ulassai and its caves, “Su Marmuri.”
- A guided tour of the caves starts at 2:30 pm, and you have to go with a guide.
- Duration: 2 km long, lasts 1.5 hours
- Pro Tip: Eat lunch at Ferro Y Fuoco Ristopub in town before the grotto.
✅ Visit The Ancient Ruins Of Nora
The ancient city of Nora dates back to the 8th century BC and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Sardinia. The site is located on the southern coast of the island and features Roman and Phoenician ruins.
✅ Go Scuba Diving
Sardinia is a popular destination for scuba diving due to its clear waters and underwater caves. The Tavolara Marine Reserve is a popular diving spot on the island. These are just a few of the many things to do in Sardinia. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Sardinia has something to offer everyone.
Do You Need a Car In Sardinia?
The short answer is yes, I recommend a car if you want to explore the island. Plus a rental is pretty cheap, the main roads are decent, driving in Sardinia is easy, and there is nothing like the freedom of flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore off-the-beaten-track hikes and beaches that Sardinia is so well known for.
This is what I use to check rental car prices on the island:
➡️ Discover Cars ⬅️
Remember, Sardinia is a large island, and some of its most beautiful beaches and natural areas are not easily accessible by public transport. Having a car allows you to visit multiple beaches in one day and explore the island’s mountain-rich interior.
PRO TIP: I cannot stress this enough, but definitely get the car insurance if you’re planning a road trip. We hit some gangs of sheep, goats, and pretty rural roads in our rental Fiat where I was thankful the little scratches wouldn’t matter.
That said, if you plan to stay in one of the larger cities or towns and are content with exploring the local area, you may not need a car. Public transportation in Sardinia is relatively reliable and efficient, with buses and trains connecting the major towns and cities.
FAQs: Traveling To Sardinia
Before you get to planning, here are a few tips and frequently asked questions that I had when I visited.
PRO TIP: If you’re in Italy traveling around, make sure you have travel insurance for any incidentals. I use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance because they are really responsive, and the price point is great – about €40 a month for me. Not trying to be your mom, but shit happens.
Which Side of Sardinia is Best To Visit?
A valid question, seeing as both the South (near Villasimius) as well as the North (near Costa Smeralda and Maddalena Archipelago) are where everyone goes and what Sardinia is known for. It’s where I would recommend going too, especially if it’s your first time.
Personally, I found the better question is East or West Coast Sardinia, and this will come up as well if you’re planning a road trip.
- East Coast Sardinia (around Arbatax) – most stunning, sandy beaches, calmer rocky coves, a few hidden cove beaches that make it to the top of the Meditteranean prettiest beaches list. This is where Italians and travelers alike flock to, from Cagliari up to the Maddalena Archipelago.
- West Coast Sardinia (around Alghero) – think Big Sur, rocky cliffside, mountain tops to traverse, more rural and local. I personally loved the northwest coast near Costa Paradiso, but I’m a sucker for rocky edges.
How do you get to Sardinia?
Depending on your location and travel preferences, there are several ways to get to Sardinia. If you’re coming from the mainland, the easiest way to get to Sardinia, Itlay, is to take a flight into the capital city of Cagliari Airport.
There are several airports in Sardinia that have regular flights from major European cities such as Rome, Milan, Barcelona, Madrid, and Paris, among others.
- Cagliari-Elmas Airport (south) – this is the biggest airport
- Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (northeast)
- Alghero-Fertilia Airport (north west)
Alternatively, you can take a ferry from mainland Italy (Civitavecchia Port near Rome is best) or other Mediterranean countries such as France or Spain.
TRAVEL TIP: The best ferry ride to Sardinia is from Civitavecchia Port near Rome to Olbia Port in Sardinia. It’s an overnight ferry ride; you can bring your car or RV, and it’s the shortest distance. I think the full ride is about 6-8 hours on the fast ferries, and tickets are about €40 per person and another ~€70 for your vehicle.
The main ports in Sardinia are Porto Torres, Olbia, and Cagliari, which have regular ferry connections to several Italian and international cities. Some of the major ferry companies that operate in Sardinia are Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines.
Which part of Sardinia has the most beautiful beaches?
I personally prefer the beaches on the East Coast of Sardinia, but there are a bunch of things to consider when picking your favorites, such as rocky vs. sandy beaches, calm coves vs. surging cliffside seas, hikes to remote beaches vs. easygoing tiki bar vibes, and the list goes on.
Preferences aside, some of the most well-known and picturesque beaches are located in the northeastern part of the island, particularly in the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) region, which is famous for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches.
Some of the most beautiful beaches in this region include:
✅ Cala Brandinchi: Known as the “Maldives of Sardinia’ (which if you’ve been to the Maldives, not really), BUT this beach does have some stunning turquoise water and white sand that makes it a popular destination.
✅ Spiaggia del Principe: This beach is famous for its clear blue water and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
✅ Capriccioli: This beach features a series of small coves surrounded by granite rocks.
✅ Cala Luna & Cala Goloritè: Located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, these beaches are more private because it’s a 1-hour hike to get to – but worth the little struggle. You can also get here by boat. 🙂
Ultimately, the choice of the most beautiful beach in Sardinia is the one you actually go to – so get your butt off the couch and hit up as many as you can when you get here.
Is Alghero or Cagliari better?
Alghero and Cagliari are both small beautiful cities in Sardinia, each with its own vibe. I prefer Alghero because I’m partial to a more Spanish vibe mixed in with my Italian, but let’s dive into a short little comparison.
Alghero is a charming medieval town located on the northwest coast of Sardinia. It is known for its picturesque old town, its Catalan heritage, and its pretty beaches. Alghero is a great destination for those who love history and architecture, as well as those who enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.
On the other hand, Cagliari is the capital city of Sardinia, located on the south coast of the island. It’s most likely where you will land when first arriving on the island. It is a bigger city than Alghero, with a lively atmosphere – think 2-3 main streets full of little shops and local wineries. Cagliari is also known for its historical monuments, such as the Castello.
Both Alghero and Cagliari have their own unique charm, and the choice between the two depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a small town with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning beaches, Alghero might be the better choice for you. If you enjoy a slightly bigger town/city, Cagliari might be the better choice.
Remember, both of these are small island cities, so don’t expect the nightlife of Rome.
How many days do you need in Sardinia?
If you’re making an effort to visit the island, I would recommend at least a week to explore it. And even with one week, you should stick to one side of the coast – the east coast!
Ideally, you spend two weeks, starting in Cagliari, making your way up to Costa Smeralda for a week, and then heading down through the mountains and towards Costa Paradiso for the next few days before finally coming back to Cagliari.
A Bit About Sardinia
I thought Sardinia was a little country on its own in the Mediterranean Sea, but in fact, it is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy.
Its history dates back to the Nuragic civilization, around 1500 B.C., but tons of different cultures have ruled this land – Phoenicians, Romans, and Aragonese, each leaving a distinct imprint on its culture and architecture.
When it comes to where to stay, the Costa Smeralda, on the northeastern coast, is my favorite. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and luxury resorts, it caters to those seeking both relaxation and a bit of luxury. For adventurers and culture enthusiasts, staying in Alghero or Cagliari offers a blend of beautiful beaches, historic exploration, and vibrant nightlife. These cities are gateways to understanding Sardinia’s soul, blending the old with the new.
Sardinian food scene is a celebration of its land, sea, and history, deeply rooted in pastoral traditions. Signature dishes like porceddu (suckling pig) and culurgiones (potato-stuffed pasta) showcase the island’s agricultural heritage, while its coastal location means seafood is big in its culinary scene.
Beyond the food, Sardinia’s culture is rich in music, dance, and the famous “cantu a tenore,” a UNESCO-recognized form of polyphonic folk singing. This blend of traditions makes Sardinia an amazing destination to add to the bucket list, and a hidden gem compared to its more popular sister island, Sicily.
Conclusion: Where To Stay In Sardinia
Sardinia is a beautiful island with many great places to stay, depending on your preferences and travel style. Here are some suggestions for areas of where to stay in Sardinia:
- Costa Smeralda: This is a luxurious destination known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and upscale resorts. If you’re looking for a high-end vacation with plenty of glamour and relaxation, Costa Smeralda is a great choice.
- Alghero: Located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Alghero is a charming city with a historic center, a beautiful harbor, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a mix of culture, history, and beach activities.
- Cagliari: This is the capital city of Sardinia, located on the southern coast. It has a beautiful historic center, great restaurants, and plenty of cultural attractions. If you want to experience Sardinia’s urban side, Cagliari is a great place to stay.
- Arbatax: This is a small town located on the east coast of Sardinia. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation, away from the crowds.
- Villasimius: This is a popular beach destination located on the southern coast of Sardinia, known for its pristine sandy beaches, clear waters, and great snorkeling and diving spots. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a beach-focused vacation.
Ultimately, the best place to stay in Sardinia depends on your preferences and travel style. Consider what you want to do and see while in Sardinia, and choose a location that suits your interests.
