travel to sardinia from us

How To Get To Sardinia: Fly vs. Ferry Costs & Benefits

This is the grand-daddy of guides on how to get to Sardinia from both Europe (especially Italy destinations) and US destinations because my ass did a lot of research last spring before my month-long road trip on the island.

I researched the fastest, cheapest, and best ways to get to and around Sardinia , so I learned quite a bit. I also spent a month driving around the island, hiking its mountains, exploring its pretty beaches from north to south, and getting lost on Sardinian roads, so the knowledge (and love) goes deep. 🤓

Here’s the gist about how to get to Sardinia .

• Sardinia has three airports: Cagliari (south), Olbia (north), and Alghero (west). Flying into Sardinia is likely the best and cheapest way to travel, and Cagliari is the biggest airport.
• Sardinia also has three main ferry ports: Cagliari (south), Olbia (north), and Porto Torres. The perks of taking a ferry to Sardinia are that you can bring your rental car or RV onboard. Olbia is the best port to ferry to, and it’s the prettiest part of the island, too! FYI, the ferries are pretty industrial, so don’t expect a romantic luxury cruise . ( Book ferry tickets here .)
• The easiest way to reach Sardinia is from Rome, Italy. Flying from Rome to any airport in Sardinia takes about 1 hour. A ferry from the Civitavecchia Port near Rome will take between 6 – 8 hours, the fastest being to Olbia Port.
• I think getting around Sardinia is best done by renting a car and doing a road trip . While there is a public transportation system (train, bus), it’s not great, and there are many beaches, hikes, and mountain trails I love off the beaten path.

PRO TIP TO THINK ABOUT: If you are going on a bigger Italy road trip that includes Sardinia, it might be cheaper and more convenient to rent a car in Rome and take the overnight ferry from Civitavecchia Port to Olbia than to fly over and rent a car in Sardinia. Food for thought…

In this post, I’m dumping all my research, lessons learned, and a few logistically odd things about Sardinia I learned along the way to help you plan your trip. So let’s jump into the details of flying and ferrying into Sardinia, how long each option takes, costs, and what to expect.

Table of Contents

How To Get To Sardinia from Italy

Sardinia is one of the biggest Italian islands, and because of this, it’s easy to get to from the mainland, especially from Rome. Here are a bunch of common ways you can get to Sardinia from Rome and Italy more broadly.

✈️ How to Get to Sardinia From Rome By Plane

You can fly to Sardinia from both Rome airports: Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport in Fiumicino (FCO) and Giovan Battista Pastine International Airport in Ciampino (CIA).

Sardinia has three main airports you can fly into:

• Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) in the south ( biggest )
• Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) in the northeast
• Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) in the northwest

Several airlines operate flights from Rome to Sardinia , including Alitalia, Ryanair, and EasyJet, all of which are regional and budget-friendly.

In the summertime, the flights from Rome to Sardinia range between €150-200 roundtrip per person . It’s a 1 – 1.5 hour flight, and there are multiple flights a day.

If you want to visit the south of the island, I recommend flying into the capital of Sardinia, Cagliari—this is where I landed and started my road trip. This means visiting long sandy beaches like Villasimius, Chia, and Costa Rei and exploring the capital city of Cagliari.

You can also dive deeper into the Nuragic civilization by visiting the Barumini Nuraghe UNESCO World Heritage site, which showcases the impressive nuraghe , Bronze Age stone structures that are unique only to Sardinia.

Olbia is a great place to land if you want a more upscale vacation in the La Maddalena Archipelago. My Italian friends told me this is where famous and wealthy Italians go on vacation – olala !!

I know it sounds haughty, but it makes sense when you see the archipelago and the famous Emerald Coast of Sardinia. I thought this region was the prettiest on the island.

Alghero is a great place to land if you want to explore the northeast of the islands—beautiful towns like Sassari and Castelsardo ( which I stayed in! ) and my favorite little beaches around Costa Paradiso. I know I say this a lot in my posts, but I wish I could get a vacation home near this area—it’s almost as stunning as the Madalenna Archipelago!

⛴️ How to Get to Sardinia From Rome By Ferry

If you have a rental car or RV on the mainland of Italy, taking the overnight ferry from Rome Civitavecchia Port to Sardinia is your best bet. The benefit here is that you’ll have a car in Sardinia, which is ideal because their public transportation is not great.

There are three main ports in Sardinia I recommend:

➡️ Olbia (northeast) – most popular ferry route, also the shortest Duration: 5 hours (fast ferry), 8 hours (regular ferry) Info: 10 pm departure from Rome, 6 am arrival in Olbia

➡️ Porto Torres (north east) – near Alghero Duration: 7 hours Info: Popular port if you’re coming from a west European port

➡️ Cagliari (south) – least popular route, longest, don’t recommend Duration: 15 hours

PRO TIP: It might be cheaper and more convenient to rent a car from Rome and take the overnight ferry from Civitavecchia to Olbia than flying over and renting a car in Sardinia.

You can search for tickets here . The best and most frequent ferries will be from Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines, and tickets should be around €50 per adult and €70 per car (RVs will be more expensive).

⭐️ How to Get from Rome to Civitavecchia Port

I get this question a lot because there are many cruises and ferries that leave from Civitavecchia, the closest port to Rome and its main airports. Here are the most practical options:

➡️ The easiest way to get from Rome Airport (FCO) to Civitavecchia Port is by Private Transfer . Costs about €115 per person and takes about 1 hour. ⬅️

*** Private transfers are available from Rome city center and Ciampino Airport.

If you’re coming from the main airport, since there is no direct line from Rome Fiumicino Airport (or the Ciampino Airport either) to Civitavecchia Port , you will have to take the Leonardo Express train from the airport to the city center of Rome (Roma Termini) and then change lines to get to Civitavecchia Port. The whole train trip will take about 2.5 hours. Here are the details from the city center of Rome.

✅ Train from Roma Termini to Civitavecchia Train Station. [CHEAPEST]

This is the most practical and cheapest option, but it is a local train, so there will be frequent stops. The train ride from Roma Termini Station to Civitavecchia Station is about 1.5 hours and costs about €6. I use OMIO to reserve train tickets and check schedules ahead of time.

You can also head into the Roma Termini train station to buy tickets from the machines or the ticket office and be on your way. Everything can be done in English and paid by credit card.

PRO TIP: Once you get to the Civitavecchia train station, you can walk to the port or take the local shuttle bus. The bus runs every 20 minutes, picks up at the front of the station, and costs €2 per person (pay cash on board). The ride to the port is about 10 minutes.

✅ Rent a Car at the Airport & Drive to Civitavecchia Port [CLEVER]

Renting a car in Rome and taking it on the overnight ferry to Sardinia is a clever and budget-conscious way to take a road trip to the island. This gives you the advantage of having your rental with you on the island, and it might save you money. Renting a car on the island can be more expensive, and flights are a bit more expensive than taking the ferry.

FUN FACT: In Europe, I was surprised to find that renting a car at the airport (especially when it’s not an island) is cheaper than anywhere else. This is the opposite in the USA, where the airport price-gouges you.

If you rent a car at the Rome airport, you will drive about 60km to the Civitavecchia port, which takes about 1.5 hours on the highway, and board the ferry at night – they usually depart around 10pm. Check FerryScanner for schedules and get your tickets ahead of time!

How to Get to Sardinia from Florence

To get from Florence to Sardinia, you have two main options: flying or taking a combination of train and ferry. Flying is faster, but the ferry is cheaper, and has the advantage of you being able to take your car/RV on the ferry with you.

Flying is probably the fastest. You can fly direct from Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) to airports in Sardinia like Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), or Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). Airlines like Vueling and Alitalia often have direct or connecting flights. Direct flights take about 1.5 hours.

Your second option will be to take a train from Florence to one of the ferry ports that offer services to Sardinia, such as Porto Livorno near Pisa (2 hrs by train), Port Civitavecchia near Rome (3.5 hrs by train), or Porto Genoa (3 hrs by train). Trenitalia has frequent train services to all these ports. I use OMIO to book tickets.

From the mainland, you’ll board a ferry to one of Sardinia’s ports like Olbia, Porto Torres, or Cagliari. Ferry operators like Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines are the more popular companies. The ferry journey alone can range from 6 to 12 hours and is usually overnight .

How to Get to Sardinia from Sicily

Again, you can take the ferry, you can fly, or you can connect somehow through mainland Italy. I think the quick and dirty way is to fly from one of Sicily’s two airports in Palermo or Catania to Sardinia. Sardinia has three airports I already talked about – the closest to Sicily being Cagliari.

The primary ferry connection between Sicily and Sardinia is from Palermo (Sicily) to Cagliari (Sardinia). This route is operated by Tirrenia, a well-known Italian ferry operator. Again, you can use FerryScanner to find and book a ticket . The ferry journey can take around 12 hours, and the last time I checked, it ran in the morning from Sicily with a late arrival in Cagliari.

If the direct Sicily-Sardinia ferry schedule doesn’t fit your plans, I would take a ferry or fly from Sicily to the Italian mainland. From here, you can catch a ferry to Sardinia from ports like Civitavecchia, Genoa, or Livorno, heading to Olbia, Porto Torres, or Cagliari in Sardinia.

How To Get To Sardinia from Europe

I think the best and fastest way to get to Sardinia is by flying into one of its main airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) in the south, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) in the northeast, or Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) in the northwest.

If you want to bring your car or RV to the island, you can catch a ferry to Sardinia from ports like Civitavecchia, Genoa, or Livorno in Italy, heading to Olbia, Porto Torres, or Cagliari in Sardinia. These ferries are usually overnight and take between 6-12 hours. You can check ferry schedules and prices on Ferryscanner – it’s what I use.

What Airport Do You Fly Into for Sardinia?

• Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) in the south

How To Get To Sardinia from the USA

The best and fastest way to get to Sardinia from the USA is to fly into Rome (or a main hub in Italy), and then take a connecting flight to one of Sardinia’s three main airports – Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) in the south, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) in the northeast, or Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) in the northwest.

When I decided to go to Sardinia, I flew from Austin to Madrid and then took a regional flight via RyanAir through Sevilla and on to Cagliari, Sardinia. It was a quick cheap flight.

PRO TIP: If you’re going on a bigger Italy trip, and want to include Sardinia as part of that, you can ferry your rental car overnight from the Civitavecchia Port near Rome to Olbia in Sardinia and continue the adventure – it’s quite cheap, and the ferry takes about 6-8 hours in the summertime.

Getting Around Sardinia

Renting a car is the best way to get around Sardinia, and it’s how I went about exploring the island. There are many obvious perks to driving yourself, including the flexibility around time and ability to hit up some of the more remote hikes, villages, and beaches around the island – my favorite hike being Cala Goloritzé , a beach located in Baunei.

➡️ I use Discover Cars to check prices & rent a car in Sardinia! ⬅️

Driving in Sardinia is pretty easy, and the highways are in good shape . To nobody’s surprise, Sardinia has some super scenic drives along the coast and through the mountainous interior – like wow!

I thought the toughest part about driving in Sardinia was the smaller roads , which Google sometimes sends you on. They are unpaved, and holy shit I hope you get the car insurance with the rental – it can get rough! Don’t let that deter you; just turn back if you find yourself on one of those pebbly roads leading to God knows where. There’s always another way to get to where you need to be. Navigating narrow streets in small towns and finding parking can also be challenging.

PRO TIP: If you decide not to rent a car, maybe because you’re only staying for a few days, I recommend parking your ass in one of the main towns, my favorite being Olbia, Alghero, and Cagliari in that order.

FAQ: Getting To Sardinia

Here’s the quick and dirty frequently asked questions I had before I went on my trip.

What is the fastest way to get to Sardinia?

Flying is the fastest way to get to Sardinia , and there are tons of flights from major European cities to Sardinia’s three main airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), or Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO)

Flights from Rome to any airport in Sardinia are about 1 hour and will range at about €150 roundtrip per person . I flew into the biggest airport, Cagliari, and started my road trip around the island from there!

What is the cheapest way to get to Sardinia?

The cheapest way to get to Sardinia is probably still flying , but it’s a toss-up if you have a few people with you, AND car rental costs are through the roof in Sardinia, especially in the summer, and especially if you don’t drive manual transmission ( cheaper to rent ).

Flights from Rome to any airport in Sardinia are about 1 hour and will range at about €150 roundtrip per person. A ferry from Rome will take about 8 hours overnight and cost you about €50 per person and €75 for a vehicle.

What is the best way to get to Sardinia?

The best and fastest way to get to Sardinia is to fly into one of its main airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) in the south, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) in the northeast, or Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) in the northwest of the island.

I flew into Cagliari and rented a car for the month. From here, I went on an amazing road trip around the island, hiking, exploring little villages like Sassari and Arbatax (my favorite), and eating my way through the renowned food the Sardinians have gained popularity for!

How many days in Sardinia is enough?

I would spend a minimum of three days in Sardinia in one of the main beach towns around the Madalena Archipelago or the Villasimmius beaches in the south. That said, Sardinia is actually a pretty big island, so a week is best to go around the island and really give it a good go!

Is Sardinia expensive to visit?

No, I don’t think Sardinia is expensive. In fact, it’s pretty rural in most places, and to give you an example of my budget – I spent about $3,000 for a month on the island, including nice lodging and a car rental when I went in April.

A dinner out is about €30, a lot of the nature is free, decent accommodations are at around €150 a night, and good wine is cheap! Of course, you can blow up the budget if you want to stay at the best resorts in the Madalena Islands, but at that point, it’s a different budget conversation.

Conclusion: Best Way to Get To Sardinia

In conclusion, flying is the best and fastest way to get to Sardinia , and there are tons of flights from major European cities to Sardinia’s three main airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), or Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO)

Flights from Rome to any airport in Sardinia are about 1 hour and will range at about €150 roundtrip per person.

If you have a rental car or RV on the mainland of Italy, taking the overnight ferry from Rome Civitavecchia Port to Sardinia is your best bet. Tickets should be around €50 per adult and €70 per car (RVs will be more expensive). The benefit here is that you’ll have a car in Sardinia, which is ideal because their public transportation is not great.

• Duration: 5 hours (fast ferry), 8 hours (regular ferry)
• Info: 10 pm departure from Rome, 6 am arrival in Olbia
• Duration: 7 hours
• Info: Popular port if you’re coming from a west European port
• Duration: 15 hours

So what are you waiting for, get your butt off your couch and book that trip to Sardinia!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

8 things to know before traveling to Sardinia, Italy

Mar 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Ensure you have the trip of a lifetime in Sardinia with these top tips © ivan canavera / Shutterstock

Ferries and resorts fill up during summer when crowds reach Sardinia to make the most of its dreamy coastline. But turquoise waters are just part of the allure. Ancient traditions blend with diverse landscapes on Italy ’s second island, where stretches of fine sand and soaring cliffs surround a mountainous interior covered in Mediterranean scrub.

Whether you are planning a road trip, a through-hike or a tour in search of the hidden coves that dot the rugged coast, here are some things you should keep in mind before visiting Sardinia.

1. Plan for at least a week to visit

Stretching for approximately 270km north to south, Sardinia may appear small on the map, but you’ll soon realize that covering each province could take weeks if you want to see all that this island has to offer. From exploring the ruins left behind by the ancient Nuragic civilization to diving into marine reserves dotting the coast and visiting wineries in the hilly interior, you’ll feel rushed if you plan to squeeze everything in just a few days.

Take at least a full week to travel beyond the highlights and make sure to organize each leg of your itinerary in advance if you are visiting in the high season, as many of the most popular destinations are likely to be fully booked months in advance.

Plan your itinerary with this list of the top things to do in Sardinia.

2. Avoid crowds and high prices by traveling during the shoulder season

Traveling to Sardinia in July and August means facing the infamous Italian peak holiday season – this is not just the hottest time of the year, but also the period in which the great majority of Italians take their annual holidays and flock to the coast. Crowds are to be expected, and everything becomes pricier in the middle of summer, from ferry tickets to hotels and car rentals.

Visiting before or after the summer will make your trip to Sardinia much more enjoyable. The island is sunny for much of the year, and the swimming season can start as early as April and runs until October. By avoiding peak summer months, you’ll also have access to affordable accommodation and the chance to move around spontaneously, without too much planning.

3. Don’t underestimate the heat

The heat is not to be taken lightly. Global warming is hitting Sardinia especially hard and record temperatures have been registered year after year – in late July of 2023, the eastern coast of the island surpassed 48°C (118°F), with a high risk of forest fires affecting much of the dry interior.

July and August are the warmest months. If you are visiting during this time of the year, it’s best to avoid hiking or cycling in the middle of the day. Needless to say, always carry plenty of water.

4. Fly or book a ferry to get to Sardinia

Sardinia is well connected to mainland Italy and many European destinations, thanks to three airports – Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero – located on three corners of the island. Cagliari , Sardinia’s capital, is the main entry point, but Alghero has long functioned as Ryanair’s main Sardinian airport, offering frequent low-cost flights year-round.

Flying is not the only way of getting to Sardinia. Ferries depart from the ports of Livorno and Piombino in Tuscany , from Civitavecchia (near Rome ), from Naples and from Palermo , allowing you to take the slow trip across the Tyrrhenian Sea to Sardinia’s eastern coast. Main operators include Moby, Tirrenia, Grandi Navi Veloci and Grimaldi Lines. You also have the option of continuing your overseas journey to Spain by taking the ferry connecting Porto Torres with Barcelona or by heading north to Corsica .

Sardinia or Sicily? We'll help you choose .

5. Driving is the best way of getting around, but there is a shortage of rental cars

Sardinia has a decent rail network, and buses go where trains can’t. Yet, traveling by public transport is slow and doesn’t allow reaching the more remote areas, where many of the island’s natural wonders are found.

Traveling to Sardinia by ferry means you can take your vehicle with you from mainland Italy. Still, it’s worth comparing the prices of sea transport with those of car rentals, especially if you are visiting in the high season when ships fill up and ticket prices increase significantly.

If you choose to rent a car on arrival during the high season, book in advance. In recent years, Sardinia has experienced a shortage of car rentals, due to a combination of the global ship shortages, the effects of the pandemic on the local economy and the growth in popularity of the island in recent years.

6. Be ready to speak (or listen to) different languages

Sardinia is not just geographically diverse, it’s also linguistically rich. While Italian is spoken everywhere, the local language is Sardinian, a neo-Latin tongue that has been officially recognized as one of Italy’s minority languages and declared endangered by UNESCO. But Sardinian is not the only language spoken by the 1.6 million people living on the island – head northwest to the area of Alghero, and you’ll hear people speak a version of Catalan, a remnant of Spanish domination in the 16th and 17th centuries.

7. Choose between wilderness or hyper-luxury

In the late 1950s, a development project backed by a group of large foreign investors began transforming the rural area of Gallura into one of Italy’s most luxurious holiday destinations. The Costa Smeralda , a 50km stretch of coastline in the northeastern part of the island, is now home to hotels where rooms cost thousands per night, exclusive nightclubs and restaurants, a yacht club, golf courses and dreamy villas hosting international VIPs.

The publicity received by this corner of Sardinia often overshadows its wilder heart, best experienced through long-distance hikes that cross the island’s majestic landscapes. Pack a tent and a sleeping back to tackle multiday trails such as Selvaggio Blu, considered one of Sardinia’s most challenging treks, or the Grande Traversata del Supramonte, running along the Supramonte mountain range in the eastern part of the island.

8. Take it slow and experience Sardinia on two wheels

Low traffic and roads running right by the coast have long contributed to making Sardinia a favorite destination for bike tourists. This has become even more noticeable in recent years as large investments have been put toward improving existing cycling paths and creating new routes for travelers who enjoy exploring on two wheels. Most cities now have bike rental services and the network of dedicated lanes is growing year after year, allowing both locals and visitors to travel safely and sustainably at a slow pace.

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ABOUT | PRESS | FAQs | CONTACT | VIDEOS | GALLERIES

• SARDINIA BY CAR
• SARDINIA BY BUS & TRAIN
• SARDINIA IN LOW SEASON
• SARDINIA IN ONE WEEK ITINERARIES
• TOP SARDINIA BEACHES
• SARDINIA FOR COUPLES
• SARDINIA FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
• SARDINIA GUIDES
• GETTING AROUND
• GENERAL INFO
• WORK WITH ME
• BACK TO MAIN SITE

Contents - Open To Read

If you love traveling, there’s a great chance you’ve heard about my amazing island and are wondering how to get to Sardinia. Don’t worry, I got you covered. As a local I know exactly how to guide you, so read on!

You have two main options for getting to Sardinia:

• FLIGHTS: There are flights to Sardinia , and getting on a plane is fast and relatively cheap.
• FERRY: Taking a ferry from mainland Italy is a great way to get to Sardinia if you wish to travel with your car and enjoy the slow ride.

Getting to Sardinia is one thing, but moving around once you’re on the island is another, so let’s also talk about that. I will tell you everything I know to guide you, including how to get from the airport to the city center, and more.

Read more on the topic:

• How to Move around Sardinia by Public transport
• How To reach The main destinations by car
• The Ultimate Guide to Rent a car in Sardinia

Below is a recap of what I will cover in this article. Click on the topic you want to read to get directly to that chapter

1) Flights to Sardinia

• Major Airports
• Flights To Sardinia from the US
• Direct Flights To Sardinia from the UK
• Getting to Sardinia from Outside Europe
• Cheap Flights to Sardinia

2) Ferry to Sardinia

• How long is a ferry ride to Sardinia?
• Major Sardinia Ports

Ferry from Italy to Sardinia

• Ferry from Rome to Sardinia
• Ferry from Sicily to Sardinia

3) Getting Around Sardinia FAQs

• Is it worth renting a car in Sardinia?
• Sardinia Public Transport: How to get around the island without a car (by bus and train).
• Is Sardinia easy to get around?
• Can you get around Sardinia without a car?
• How do people get around in Sardinia?
• How long does it take to get around Sardinia?
• What are the roads like in Sardinia?
• Driving in Sardinia: All you need To know

Flights to Sardinia-Italy

With more and more tourists choosing Sardinia as their next summer destination, recent years have been marked by an increasing frequency of flights to Sardinia .

With three major airports, Sardinia is now well connected. Not only are there Rome, Milan, and Naples to Sardinia flights, Sardinia is now easily accessible with flights from many Italian cities and cities from other parts of Europe.

How to Book A flight To Sardinia

SKYSCANNER : Since this is my N.1 choice for 90% of my flights around the world, I highly recommend it . I never had any issues and it saved me hours of research online. It’s easy to use and compares every possible airline for the route you need. It is also convenient if you can’t book a direct flight to Sardinia.

My honest review: I compared the prices when booking with Skyscanner or directly through the airline website, and sometimes you pay a bit more when booking with Skyscanner. This doesn’t apply to all the flights and routes, so if you have time, do some research (especially for direct flights), for non-direct flights It’s better to just go with it, as the research can be exhausting!

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT TO SARDINIA HERE

Direct Flights To Sardinia From Europe

Yes, Sardinia also has direct flights from Paris, London, Barcelona, Madrid, Stockholm, Munich, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Dublin, Brussels, Geneva, Budapest, and many more which I’ll talk about below. Let me guide you on a detailed tour of each of Sardinia’s airports and other helpful tips when choosing to fly to Sardinia.

Direct Flights to Sardinia From The UK

Ryanair :  Routes covered from Stansted, Luton, and Dublin to Alghero, and from Gatwick to Cagliari.

Local’s tip: check out for additional taxes and fees and restrictions on luggage when booking! Ryan air might be cheap but is not convenient if you stay on the east coast, as the roads from Alghero to Olbia are not easy to figure out. Maybe it’s better to spend a bit more with other companies and travel stress-free!

 EasyJet:    Gatwick, Luton and Bristol to Olbia and from Stansted to Cagliari.

Tips: I used Easy Jet when I lived in London and they have very convenient prices. In winter they just fly on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday , whilst from May on they have daily flights. Be careful as the prices are shown don’t include the check-in baggage (around 20 euros for 20kg). They will also ask you to choose your seat, insurance, car, hotels, etc. I usually decline.

British Airways:   Heathrow to Olbia and Cagliari.

Tips: The flights to Cagliari are only on Mondays , Thursdays, and Saturdays. To Olbia, they only operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The prices are inclusive of taxes, no hidden fees, and are pretty similar to the low costs companies.

Thomson Flights:  London Gatwick to Alghero. 

Tips: Honestly? I don’t recommend them. They only fly on Saturdays and the prices are VERY expensive.   I give you this choice just in case everything else is fully booked and you don’t have a fixed budget. Ps: If you happen to book with them, and you don’t find “Alghero” on the choices is because they put it under “Sardinia- Alghero”.

How to Get to Sardinia From the US

All flights from the United States to Sardinia require a stopover in London or another European city. You can take the Rome to Sardinia flights or another option like Milan before continuing to one of the three airports without a layover.

The airport for Sardinia with the most flight and airline options is Cagliari, which serves the island’s southernmost region.

Which Airlines Fly To Sardinia From the US and Canada 

From the US

American Airlines, ITA Airways (Ex Alitalia), and Delta have direct flights to these possible layover airports, not only from New York but also from Boston, Miami, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

From Canada

If you are coming from Canada, you can fly from Toronto or Montreal with Alitalia and AirCanada with one stopover in Europe before a direct flight to Sardinia.

Visa Requirements for Sardinia

As long as you don’t intend to stay for longer than 90 days, US citizens or Canadians can visit Sardinia and mainland Italy as tourists without a visa. However, you must have a passport with at least six months of remaining validity after the date of arrival into the country and enough blank pages for entry stamps.

How to Get To Sardinia from Outside Europe

The same with coming from the United States, there are no direct flights from other countries outside of Europe like North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia to Sardinia, so you will have to fly to other major airports in Italy. Getting to Sardinia from Rome or Milan is your best option.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Sardinia

Are you looking for a cheap flight to Sardinia ? (Who isn’t, right?) 🙂

You can find plane tickets from New York for $587 one-way and $1,052 round-trip. You need to reserve at least three weeks before your planned departure to receive a discounted rate, especially if you plan to fly during the summer.

1) Find The Best Time To Travel To Sardinia

The months of September, October, and November are still high/mid-season (price-wise), but from mid-October on, it’s mainly middle to low season, and the prices finally decrease. May is the cheapest month to travel to Sardinia (and one of the most incredible months to do so, not only for the cheap flights!).

2) Fly with Low Cost/Cheap airlines to Sardinia

If you want cheap flights to Sardinia , take advantage of low-cost airlines. To find the cheapest flights to Sardinia, keep an eye out for special offers from budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet. During their recurring flight sales, prices frequently drop dramatically. Also, consider traveling to Sardinia during the low season . The benefits will surprise you.

• One word of advice regarding these low-cost companies: The ticket might be cheap, but they try to rip you off by adding surcharges for the luggage and other little things. Careful when you book your flight. If you notice that the final price is much higher than the starting price, you probably left the insurance box or other extras selected. If you genuinely want to stay cheap with them: travel light and never tick any unnecessary boxes 🙂

3) Fly to Sardinia in Off season /winter

Even though there are fewer flights during the off-peak winter months, there are still at least once weekly flights to all of Sardinia’s major airports. Before booking your trip, check out the flights first. Some direct flights are canceled during the off-season.

FIND YOUR CHEAP FLIGHT TO SARDINIA HERE

Airports in Sardinia:

Which Sardinia airport is better? It all depends on where you decide to stay in Sardinia or, at least, where you will start your holiday.

There are three main airports in Sardinia you could fly into:

• Cagliari Elmas Airport , just a few kilometers away from the city of Cagliari – South of Sardinia,
• Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport at the north-eastern part of Sardinia
• Alghero Fertilia Airport in the north-western part.

All three airports are a quick ride from their city center, so no worries, I’ll tell you how to get to the city center from each one below.

Cagliari Elmas Airport

IATA Airport Code: CAG

Cagliari Airport is 7 km northwest of Sardinia Island, nearby Elmas town, thus the name Cagliari Elmas Airport (little curiosity: I live 15 min from the airport, my town is the next one after Elmas, very convenient :).

Cagliari airport is the busiest airport in Sardinia , with 5 million passengers. If you’re spending time in South Sardinia, this is your airport of choice.

Direct Flights To Sardinia -Cagliari Airport

There are direct flights to Cagliari to over 30 cities, and airlines like British Airways, EasyJet, Luxair, Air Berlin, and Ryanair fly to and from Sardinia. Rome to Sardinia flights for Cagliari Airport directly are at 247 flights monthly, followed by direct flights to these cities:

National Flights From Italy To Cagliari

International Flights From Italy To Cagliari

• London Gatwick
• Basel Mulhouse

Cagliari Airport Amenities

This airport in Sardinia is equipped with all essential facilities for your comfort and includes ATMs, business centers, shops, cafes, restaurants, and executive lounges. You can also take advantage of the parking space for long-term and short-term use (click here for the rates). There are rental car service desks at the arrivals area of the airport from companies like Europcar, Hertz, Firefly, and Goldcar.

Main Airlines flying into Cagliari Airport: 

Presently, 20 airlines offer flights to Cagliari (Sardinia). Ryanair, which connects 39 airports to Cagliari (Sardinia), runs most of the flights, with Volotea as the second airline with the most flights. Other airlines flying to Cagliari include EasyJet, Alitalia ( recently rebranded as ITA Airways), Neos, Eurowings, and Wizzair.

How to get from Cagliari Airport to the city center

There are a few ways you can get to the city as soon as you arrive in Sardinia. The choice depends on whether you want to stay comfortable or make one last effort and drag your luggage up and down the bus or train.

It only takes about a 10 to 15- minute and 25 euro (taxi) ride to get to the city center. Consider paying an additional charge for the nighttime service, from 10 pm to 6 am.

Buses depart for the City Center every half-hour; this method is the least expensive mode of transportation. There are two bus terminals at the airport.

The buses that depart from the area directly outside the arrivals area operate between 8.40 am and 11.30 pm, while the buses from the departures area run between 5.20 am and 10.30 pm. You must buy the tickets before boarding at the newsstand in the arrival area and at the McDonald’s in the departure area.

• From Cagliari To The Airport

Suppose you are traveling to the airport from Cagliari. In that case, you must board the buses on platform eight at the ARST bus terminal (located near the train station in Piazza Matteotti) and pay 0.67 euros for a single journey. For inquiries, ARST bus company has toll-free numbers: 800 865042 or 070 4098327 (I doubt they will speak good English, but you can try or ask a local if needed, we are always ready to help if we can!) 🙂

You can also use the train service from the airport from 5:00 am to 11:45 pm, with a 20-minute waiting time before each departure. You will reach the center of Cagliari in 7 minutes at most. Purchase train tickets from the train station or a machine located at the airport’s arrivals area for € 1.30 per way.

You can easily walk to the train station outside the airport’s arrivals. As soon as you get out, head on your left towards the multi-level parking space; you’ll find it there. It takes around 5 to 8 minutes to get there (considering your luggage too).

B UY YOUR TRAIN TICKET IN ADVANCE HERE

Alghero Airport

IATA airport code: AHO

Alghero Airport, also called Alghero Fertilia, 8 km northwest of the city center, is the leading international gateway o Northwest Sardinia.

Direct Flights To Sardinia -Alghero Fertilia

Direct flights are coming from the following cities (helpful in planning your trip if you arrive from the US, another country, or even from Italian towns without direct flights):

National Flights from Italy To Alghero

• Venice Marco Polo

International Flights From Italy To Alghero

• Brussels Charleroi
• London Stansted
• Other Cities with less than ten flights a month

Main Airlines flying into Alghero Airport: 

• Alitalia ( now Ita Airways)

How to get from Alghero Airport to The city Center

Being Alghero Airport quite close to the city, it’s easy to find the perfect option for your needs; let’s see how:

This airport in Sardinia also uses ARST (Regional Bus Service ). Route 9373’s last stop is at Via Catalogna- Alghero. The same bus travels back to the airport and is available every hour from 05:20 am to 11:00 pm. They have a seasonal route to Stintino and Santa Teresa Di Gallura from June to September. Very useful if you decide to stay in one of these lovely locations and don’t want to rent a car in Sardinia.

You can buy the bus tickets for local connections from an automatic vending machine, which is open 24 hours a day at the airport. For more information, you may call (+39) 079 2639200 or email [email protected] (again, I can’t guarantee their English is up to your expectations, but you can try)

You can also find taxis immediately outside the airport’s arrivals area. The fare to the city center is around 25 €. (But always ask beforehand to avoid scams)

RENTING A CAR

If you wish to rent a car in Sardinia, you can find companies that offer car rentals, assistance, and information like road conditions and routes. You’ll find their offices inside the terminal right outside the arrivals lounge.

• Local’s Tip: Don’t wait to rent the car upon arrival in Sardinia; likely, you won’t find much availability. I recommend you book in advance using a reputable comparing tool. Then you can go straight to your stand at the airport and show them your booking. No-fuss or extra stress!

BOOK YOUR CAR DIRECTLY HERE!

Olbia Airport

IATA airport code: OLB

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, 5 km from downtown Olbia, is the central hub on the northeast coast of Sardinia.

Olbia is a city in the famous Sardinian region of Gallura. The city, located nearby the Costa Smeralda touristy area, is known for its beaches, historic sites, and year-round mild temperatures (all over Sardinia except for the mountain areas in the hinterland).

The airport has numerous connections to mainland Italy and locations in continental Europe and the UK. For example, there is Rome to Sardinia flights direct to Olbia.

Below is the list of cities with direct flights from Olbia

National Flights from Italy To Olbia

International Flights from Italy To Olbia

• London Heathrow
• Basel Mulhouse Freiburg

Main Airlines flying into Olbia Airport: 

• Alitalia (now ITA Airways)

How to get from Olbia Airport to Olbia city Center 

This airport is also well located, and it’s easy (and cheap) to get to the city by public transport

To get to Olbia city center, ride buses n. two and n. ten which will take you into town in around 10 minutes. They depart every 10-20 minutes. You can purchase the tickets for €1.50 at the information desk inside the airport terminal. You will find the bus stop 50 meters away outside the airport near the arrivals area.

Should you decide to take a taxi, you can find them near the arrivals area, just outside the terminal building. The minimum fare is € 3.50; after that, the cost is € 2.60 for the first 5 km and €1.90 per kilometer for the last 35 km. The average fare to the city from Olbia Airport is € 15.00. But, as usual, ask for an approximate price in advance.

You will find car rental agencies, like Dollar, Auto Europa, Europcar, Avis, Budget, and Hertz (to name a few) upon getting to the terminal. Most of them are close to the arrivals area at the Terminal Autonoleggi, while others have nearby depots and will arrange pick-up services for you.

If you want to rent a car for your trip to Sardinia, make your reservations well in advance since there may not be as much of a selection available during major holidays and the summer.

If you can’t find a direct flight to your preferred airport in Sardinia , you can still travel the entire length of the island in three max four hours (depending on the route, traffic, and speed). The scenery along the way is sometimes breathtaking, and it wouldn’t be entirely a disadvantage.

Ferry to Sardinia

What if you wish to take your car with you? After all, having it will give you more freedom to roam around and explore the island without the need to rent a car in Sardinia.

The good news is that Sardinia ferries will take you and your car to the island. However, it is essential to note that the ferry to Sardinia can be more expensive, so you will have to book way in advance if you wish to lower the price.

BOOK YOUR FERRY TO SARDINIA HERE

How long is the ferry ride to Sardinia?

In short, it depends on the port of departure, the route, and the type of ferry: Travel duration is five to 6 hours and a half for day trips. If you travel at night, it can take from 10-12 hrs. Travel time also varies because daytime ferries include fast ferries (more expensive).

If you want to save money, you’d better go for the conventional slower ferry. It may take longer, but you won’t mind too much if you’re in a comfortable cabin or while you’re enjoying the sight of the clear blue waters from the ferry dock.

Sardinia ports cater all year round to ferries going to and from Naples, Civitavecchia, Palermo, Livorno, Piombino, Salerno, and Savona. There are also ferries going to Sardinia from other European locations like Barcelona, France, and Corsica with connecting ports of Toulon, Nice, Ajaccio, Bastia, and Bonifacio. The ferry operation increases in frequency during summer.

Sardinia Major Ports:

There are 5 main ports catering ferries to Sardinia , namely:

Port of Arbatax – Tortolì

Port of cagliari.

• Port of Golfo Aranci

Port of Olbia

Port of porto torres.

Sardinia also has other smaller ports, namely:

• Port of Santa Teresa di Gallura
• Port of Stintino
• Port of Alghero
• Port of La Caletta
• Port of La Maddalena
• Port of Palau
• Port of Calasetta
• Port of Carloforte
• Port of Porto Vesme
• Port of Santa Maria Navarrese

Usually, the smaller ports mentioned above serve as private and tourist ports from where the touristic boat tours depart in summer.

• Local’s Tip: The most famous ones are Palau for the trip to Arcipelago della Maddalena boat trip, Santa Maria Navarrese for the Golfo Di Orosei tours (also served by Arbatax Port), Stintino and Porto Torres main Port to reach the Asinara Island, and Porto Vesme, Carloforte and Calasetta to reach the Isola di San Pietro and Carloforte town.

The Port of Arbatax in the municipality of Tortolì is the best choice if you are traveling with a car, camping van, caravan, and trailer and visiting the east coast of Sardinia.

• Civitavecchia – Arbatax
• Genova – Arbatax

Ferry Companies:

Tirrenia company and Grimaldi provide service to the port, with operation from 2:00 pm to 0:00 am, but the frequency of the ferries may vary according to the high and low seasons. Grimaldi Lines runs ferries weekly, Tuesdays and Saturdays, between Civitavecchia and Arbatax. The departures are often in the evening, and the crossing takes about nine hours.

Tourist Attractions Nearby:

• The most beautiful beaches of Golfo di Orosei and Ogliastra
• Porto Frailis
• Red Rocks celebrated with music festivals

The Port of Cagliari is southern Sardinia’s direct access by sea. You’ll see the city from the ferry, first at a distance, and up-close when your ferry docks. The bus and train station are just 200 meters away from the harbor; you can’t miss them!

If you get slightly confused exiting the pier, head towards Piazza Matteotti, on the left; everything you need is there, from the main bus and train station to an ample parking space.

The Cagliari harbor is one of the most prominent Italian seaports for those traveling with a car, camper, caravan, and trailer. Besides the convenient ferry from Naples to Sardinia, the port also caters to other useful routes.

• Civitavecchia – Cagliari
• Naples – Cagliari
• Palermo – Cagliari

The Grimaldi Lines is currently the only company serving Cagliari port with daily and weekly ferry trips from South Sardinia to Civitavecchia (Rome) and Southern Italy (Naples and Palermo- Sicily). No ferries are traveling to Cagliari from outside Italy.

Tirrenia and Moby Lines are not serving Cagliari port anymore. If you’ve traveled to Sardinia in the past, you know they used to for many years. But you don’t have to worry about these details.

In May 2022, I planned a fantastic trip to Rome and Tuscany by car and quickly booked online my return tickets from and to Sardinia using a useful comparative searching tool . You insert the route/port you need, and it finds you all the ferry companies serving that route so that you can immediately book the best deal!

If you have already decided to take the ferry, my advice is to book your ticket sooner rather than later.

Tourist locations nearby:

• Southern Sardinia Coast:Villasimius, Costa Rei, Pula, Chia, Tuerredda beach
• Sulcis Iglesiente: Porto Flavia, Cala Domestica, Nebida
• Oristano: San Giovanni Di Sinis, Santa Caterina, Tharros, Is Arutas beach and more

Port of Golfo Aranci -Sardinia

Port Golfo Aranci, located merely 20km from Olbia, serves as another gateway to Costa Smeralda and surrounding areas. If you wish to avoid the crowd in the bigger city, this port is a good choice for you.

Golfo Aranci Port is a great access point to many breathtaking beaches and tourist attractions, such as:

• Sardinia Northeast: Costa Smeralda, Arzachena, La Maddalena,Sand Santa Teresa Di Gallura
• Sardinia Southeast: San Teodoro / Budoni.

Routes to and from Golfo Aranci:

• Civitavecchia – Golfo Aranci
• Livorno – Golfo Aranci
• Piombino – Golfo Aranci
• Savona – Golfo Aranci
• Ajaccio – Golfo Aranci
• Bastia – Golfo Aranci
• Porto Vecchio (Corsica, France) – Golfo Aranci
• Nizza and Tolone (France) – Golfo Aranci

Ferry Companies: 

Port Golfo Aranci is served by Corsica Ferries , which operates a fleet of cozy and up-to-date ships.

One of Sardinia’s most prominent ports is Olbia’s port. Olbia-Costa Smeralda Airport is a short 4.7 km, 8-minute ride by car from the Port of Olbia.

The port on the island’s northeast coast is the closest one from which you can reach Sardinia by ferry from Italy. The ferries can take you there in less than 5 1/2 hours. There are nine wharves in the Isola Bianca sector of the port of Olbia where fast ferries and passenger ships can dock.

You can quickly get to the central and southern part of Sardinia from the port of Olbia by taking the SS 131 bus to Abbasanta (or renting a car and driving). From there, you can opt to head east or west.

EAST: The SS 125, also known as Orientale Sarda is ideal for traveling to popular coastal tourist destinations, including Olbia, San Teodoro, the Golfo di Orosei, up to Costa Rei, Villasimius and Cagliari.

It takes a little longer but will gift you with breathtaking panoramic views. Probably, for this reason, some tourists renamed it “Sardinian Route 66” 🙂

WEST: Going west means you will be driving along SS131/E25, which has a speed limit of 110 km/h from km 35.000 to km 108.300, the fastest speed limit on the island, so it is also the quickest way to reach your destinations in Sardinia. SS131 (also known as “Carlo Felice”) is considered the island’s main artery and, starting from Olbia, connects the city with Oristano and Cagliari.

The road is ample in some traits and a bit less in others. Currently (update 2022), there are many deviations in the trait close to Nuoro and Oristano due to undergoing structural works, and it can get slow at times. Apply caution when driving, especially at night, and always follow the signs to Cagliari.

• Civitavecchia – Olbia
• Genova-Olbia
• Livorno-Olbia
• Piombino-Olbia

Tourist locations nearby: (very similar to the ones nearby Golfo Aranci port, they are 20 min away by car)

Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia, Moby Lines, and Grimaldi Lines are the four ferry companies that run the routes to Olbia. Each week, they provide up to 79 ferry and hydrofoil crossings (fast ferries). The duration of the rides might range from 5 to 12 hours, depending on the port of departure.

Another major port for ferries in Sardinia is the Port of Porto Torres. Located on the Northwest Sardinia coast and easily accessible by plane, car, or train. Many ferries come and go from the mainland towards this port, including international ones, with the following routes:

Porto Torres- Sardinia Routes

• Civitavecchia – Porto Torres
• Livorno – Porto Torres
• Génova – Porto Torres
• Toulon – Porto Torres
• Ajaccio – Porto Torres
• Porto Vecchio – Porto Torres
• Marseille – Porto Torres
• Nizza – Porto Torres
• Barcelona – Porto Torres

Some of the best Sardinia places to visit when arriving by Ferry at Porto Torres are:

• Stintino with its famous “La Pelosa Beach,”
• Asinara Island
• Costa Paradiso
• Castel Sardo (to name a few)

Grandi Navi Veloci and Tirrenia are the companies that guarantee the frequency of the routes, with an increased frequency during the peak season and a reduction during the low season. Nevertheless, there is at least one daily connection.

Suppose you intend to remain in northern Sardinia. In that case, Porto Torres is an excellent harbor to dock at because it will be convenient for you to reach the Asinara Archipelago and Alghero/ Stintino and many other lovely Sardinia places.

Up to 133 ferries go to Italy each week, 41 of which depart from Rome (Civitavecchia port) for various ports in Sardinia, making them some of the busiest and most frequently traveling ferries.

You have a wide range of options when choosing your ferry route because there are many other ports in Italy that you can depart from, such as Genoa or Napoli. If you are on an Italy Road Trip ) and want to include Sardinia -which you should 🙂 -you’ll have plenty of choices!

Ferry Sicily to Sardinia

Can you get a ferry from Sicily to Sardinia? Yes, you can! ( Ferry Sicily to Sardinia has one route, the “Palermo-Cagliari,” with three weekly connections. Palermo to Cagliari is one of the routes Grimaldi Lines runs once daily, while the Tirrenia route to Palermo- Sicily runs twice daily.

• Local’s Tip: You should conduct a live search for crossings from Sicily to Sardinia to acquire the most recent information because the frequency and length of crossings on some routes vary.

Getting Around Sardinia

You have two main options to get around Sardinia:

• By renting a car beforehand and collecting it upon arrival in Sardinia
• By using Sardinia public transport

Each option has pros and cons, which I will cover in a breeze, so stay tuned because being a local, I can give you some helpful tricks and valuable information to decide what’s best for your needs!

Is it worth hiring a car in Sardinia?

The easiest and best way to travel around Sardinia and explore the island is exploring by car , so to be very straightforward, my answer, as a local, is YES, is it worth all the money you spend to hire a car in Sardinia, trust me on that. 

Having a car offers a world of possibilities to explore even the most remote places and beaches in Sardinia. Although Sardinia’s public transportation is reasonably priced, it is not, let’s put it this way, “ideal” 🙂

This means it can be difficult or impossible to visit Sardinia’s most picturesque places by going off the major roads. Sardinia’s public transportation system needs a massive “redo” and provides better connections, so your options for travel will understandably be limited.

Sardinia Car Rental: 

Car rental service is available as soon as you land at any of the three major airports. But it’s also best to book in advance to save money and, even more importantly, find a car available!

When my friends want to visit Sardinia and are planning to rent a car at the airport, I shiver in horror, knowing that they probably won’t find any availability on short notice.

As with any other place, off-season auto rental in Sardinia costs less than in peak season, and the availability shouldn’t be an issue in this case, but it better be safe than sorry.

Check availability and book your car directly here!

What type of car should you rent:

Are you planning an adventurous trip? Best to rent a small SUV or a 4-wheel drive vehicle because going off the beaten track to explore more rural areas equates to more challenging roads.

Sardinia Family Holyday: Make sure the car is equipped with a seat for the kids, or bring your own if you can. The cost might be relatively higher for this extra feature.

Car Rental in Sardinia and Insurance:

Like car renting in other places, check the vehicle before hitting the road and don’t hold back spending extra euros for insurance. It’s best to be prepared for any eventuality, especially on vacation. I always choose the one that includes everything and with the possibility of changing the driver.

More about everything you need to know to hire a car in Sardinia in an upcoming article. If you want to know when it’s up, please subscribe to my newsletter (no spam), and you’ll get an email when it’s ready!

Public Transport Sardinia: How To Get Around Without A Car.

Without a car, you can travel around Sardinia by public transport ( (by train, bus, or a combination of the two). And if you are more adventurous, you can explore Sardinia by bike.

• SARDINIA BY TRAIN

Trenitalia officially operate s trains in Sardinia (we have jokes about this company in terms of being on time, but I digress) 🙂

If you are quite the romantic, you’ll probably imagine an idyllic setting of you relaxing on a train as it creeps along the hinterland, observing the splendid Sardinian view from the window, going from one enchanting village to the other.

The reality is just a bit different 🙂 if you plan to reach multiple destinations, this will not be an easy undertaking.

Sardinia railway network is not as extensive and organized as you would want it to be (alas!). The connections between the east and the west are non-existent, and the railway is missing in most coastline villages and cities.

Sounds adventurous? Perhaps! Practical? Not really, unless you are traveling Sardinia with a backpack and nothing else.

Nevertheless, If you are an adventurous backpacker or want to stay put in one place, then using the train in Sardinia might be an option.

Train routes in Sardinia

The rail network connects all the main towns, with some trains running on more minor local routes. The main line goes through Cagliari-Oristano-Porto Torres and (with a change of trains in Chilivani) To Olbia as well. That’s it.

Train Costs in Sardinia

Several daily departures go from the southern part of Sardinia to the northern region and vice versa. The tickets are cheap, and you can buy them online. The longest route from Olbia to Cagliari can be completed in 4 hours and costs around 18/19 Euros.

Where to buy a Train Ticket

You can buy your Train tickets (to the main cities) directly online at the OMIO website or the official Trenitalia website . I mentioned Omio first because I find it much easier to navigate, it’s more precise on the changes of trains and the times of layovers, plus it gives you the visual route.

• Local’s Tip: Do Not forget to validate the ticket at the train station (insert it into the machine at the beginning of each platform). If you don’t validate the ticket, it is not valid, and you will get a fine. This rule applies to every train in Italy.
• SARDINIA BY BUS 

ARST operates the public buses in Sardinia, runs along with the major cities, and stops at the villages and towns on the way. Gladly, given the lack of trains 🙂

• Local’s Tip: There are fewer buses on weekends and during the holidays. So plan if you wish to travel to remote villages during these times, and find another traveling method if you don’t want to get stranded.

Purchase the tickets in advance from tobacco kiosks or at newsagents near the bus stop. You can buy your ticket from the bus driver on some routes but expect a small surcharge.

The official ARST website is complicated to navigate, even for a local, and it doesn’t have an English version. That’s why I’m here. In my following guide on how to get around Sardinia by public transport, I will help you with all the details you might need. Don’t worry 🙂

• SARDINIA BY BIKE 

Finally, if you have the strength, stamina, and spirit of adventure, you can bike around the breathtaking places in Sardinia. You can only expect the roads to be busy in the high seasons.

Bike Rentals Sardinia

Bike rentals are available at resorts and in major cities of Olbia, Alghero, Cagliari, Palau, Santa Teresa Gallura, and La Maddalena at € 10 per day. But note that cycling on the main road of the island SS131 is not allowed.

Taking the bike with you in Sardinia: Costs

If you wish to take the bike with you on regional trains, you can purchase a separate ticket good for 24 hours at € 3.5. The ferry charge bikes an additional fee of € 3 to € 10.

Read more (coming soon): Public Transport in Sardinia: How to move around without a car

The Takeaway of Flying To & Getting Around Sardinia

If you have read this far, congratulations! It was quite a long read, I know. I wanted to be as detailed as possible. And if you feel this guide is lacking in some areas, no worries, more detailed, in-depth articles on how to get around Sardinia are coming. I got you covered!

In need of vital information not covered here? Comment below, and I’ll do my best to help you!

Sardinia is not only rich in crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and delicious food. The island will also seduce you with its people’s innate sense of hospitality (bragging much?? :D).

So you can expect help from the friendly locals when you need it. We, Sardinians, cannot wait to welcome you (the foreigner or “strangiu” in the Sardinian language) to our fabulous island!

PS: Do you know that Sardinian is not an Italian dialect but a different language? My friends from mainland Italy never understand a word when my parents talk with each other 😉

“A Si Biri!” ( See You soon)!

Read My Articles about Sardinia:

• Where To stay in Sardinia for Everyone (Couples included)
• One week in Sardinia: the Best Itinerary For you!
• Best Sardinia Beaches You can’t miss on Your Trip
• Fabulous reason to Visit Sardinia in Low Season
• Amazing Things To Do In Sardinia in Summer
• Unique Things To Discover in Sardinia During Winter
• Best Costa Smeralda Beaches With Map
• Sardinia By Car: The Ultimate Guide on How To Get Around the Island!
• Sardinia Photos: My 15 favorite Instagram Pictures!
• Sardinia Travel Guide: Unmissable Places To See and Things To Do!
• Sardinia Holidays for Families: Where To Stay with your kids!
• Sardinia Solo Travel: A Backpackers guide by a Local!
• Sardinia Camping: Your Guide (By a Local)
• Sardinia Travel Guides
• Sardinia in 2 weeks: Best Itinerary
• Sardinia in 3 weeks: Best Itinerary

Hi clelia I was hoping you could help me – we’re heading to Sardinia in late August flying in and out of Olbia. I was wondering if it’s possible to get a bus from Olbia to Palau, from Palau to Cala Gonone and then Cala Gonone to Olbia. Thanks!

Hey Lauren, sorry for the super delayed response, I’ve been having some IT issues with my website! So… good question. It is not impossible but tiring and not easy. The Olbia-Palau is pretty easy using the ARST buses(see timetables and stops in the link) From Palau to Cala Gonone, there is not a direct bus for sure, and you’ll have to go back to Olbia, change bus to Nuoro and change again from Nuoro to Cala Gonone (and same for the way back). From Olbia to Cala Gonone by bus (via Nuoro) it takes almost 5 hours, but you will have to be extra careful to catch the connecting buses so you might wait for the second one for a while or having to rush depending on the timetable you choose. As you can see it’s not ideal, but if you don’t mind a little adventure, it is possible.

I hope this helps! Cheers Clelia

Hi Clelia , I’m traveling with wife and two kids one 13 and 5 years old on Aug 2 for 10 day can you please tell me where should be a great fun area for kids to visit and stay , I was planning to rent a car as well to go around island do I need more than 10 days Thank you Tony

Sorry for the super late reply but I’m having some IT issues to sort out on my website! Regarding your question, tricky one as it depends on what your kids love to do the most…I’m guessing that water parks, the miniature of Sardinia, seeing the donkeys and simply enjoying their time on the beach will be great for them. For this reason, I’d recommend the south part of Sardinia, you can base yourself in Cagliari and take day trips to the water park near Pula, the Sardegna in Miniatura (pretty cool for adults as well),and then just visit the awesome beaches around Villasimius on the south east and Chia/Cala Cipolla/Tuerredda Beaches on the south west. You can also ass a boat trip to Porto Flavia ( an old fascinating mine site and see the famous rock and then visit the site itself) by booking a day trip. Possibilities for kids are truly endless. I hope you’ll have a great time!

Cheers Clelia

Hi Clelia, I am considering going to Alghero 23rd May for 8 nights with my Son. Do buses run regularly to the beaches down the coast as want to try and keep the cost down. Regards

Hi Joanna, sorry for the late reply, I hope you will still read it! As for your question, being Alghero a city where local lives all year round, there are bus services to the main beaches yes. Obviously what I recommend is to rent a car, as you will see a lot more but if you can’t, in between public transport and maybe a tour or two, you might be able to see nice things. Regards Clelia

Hello Clelia, we (1 couple, no kids) are planning a week in Sardinia in mid September. Flying into Cagliari, We would like to visit Villasimius, then Gola Su Gorropu, then coastal for a few nights – maybe Cala Gonone or Teodoro, then back to Cagliari for our flight home. All on public transport. I am finding it difficult to find out online if there are public buses up the east coast to do all this. Could you advise? We love snokelling in shallow waters (not strong swimmers) so advise on any other good beaches would also be welcomed….

HI Maeve, Ahi ahi public transport in Sardinia! 🙂 You can certainly do some of the activities and visit some of the places but the best parts will be out of reach. Still, you can take the bus from Cagliari to reach Villasimius quite easily, but be aware that depending on the company they might leave you at a stop in the main road and you’ll have to walk. The main company servicing this route is ARST . Unfortunately, the website is just in Italian and even for Italian people is super disorganized if you ask me. You can’t book online anyway so you’ll have to go from the airport to Cagliari Piazza Matteotti (don’t worry, every bus/train from the airport stops in there as it is the main hub for train and buses) and from there, there is the ARST station on the right of the train station. You go there and buy your ticket, not sure if they will understand English, it really depends on who is doing the shift that day 🙂 Ask if the bus stops in Villasimius center or not.

For Cala Gonone… unfortunately you are not in luck. It’s not impossible to get there but not easy either. No way you can catch a bus from Villasimius to Cala Gonone, so far there are no buses that connect the two villages. You’ll have to go back to Cagliari and take either the train passing via Oristano, then stop and take another train or bus and finally a taxi that will cost you a fortune for a total of God only knows how many hours on the road.

A Better Option would be to Go directly to San Teodoro bu Bus. I used it a couple of times with a private company called Turmo Travel. Usually it stopped in the center of San Teodoro but I was having a look at their website now and it says that the stop is on the main road. Weird. I should call them and ask 🙂 But yet again you can ask them prior to purchasing the ticket. You can find them in the same bus station as ARST.

For Su Gorropu, bad to say it like that but if you are not in the Golfo di Orosei area, forget about it as even the organized tours only depart from the nearby villages.

You found it difficult to find buses on the east coast because… after Villasimius/Costa Rei there are very few options. As I told you, public transport in Sardinia is somehow embarrassing so my suggestion is to rent a car if you can or to just chose one place (either Villasimius or San Teodoro) and stay there, they are the best options and bets connected villages on the east coast with the possibility of booking day excursions so that you don’t have to stay stuck in the same beach for the whole trip.

Sorry to give you so many bad news but it’s our reality, unfortunately!

Clelia, thank you so much for your precise and prompt reply!! Unfortunately it is not what I wanted to hear :-). I will look at rental cars so……I do want to see as much as possible of your beautiful island….

Thanks Maeve,

I know… I feel bad when I have to give “bad news” and it truly drives me crazy that in an Island like Sardinia, the connections to the best places are that bad. It’s not good for the tourists but especially for the locals who have to move and don’t have a car.

I hope you’ll find a good deal and will enjoy my Island as much as you can! Clelia

Hy which is the best way to travel in sardinia bus or train? We are coming in August and we are havbing kids with us

Thanks for stopping by! It all depends on your Itinerary really. I usually don’t recommend public transport, to be honest. Especially if you have kids, it is only good for solo adventure travelers with a backpack or 1 piece of luggage as, unfortunately, we don’t have the greatest public transport network. If you still can’t rent a car, then you will have to carefully plan your itinerary and only choose locations that are well served by buses (like Villasimius, San Teodoro, Santa Teresa di Gallura).

By Train in even more trickier as we have a direct train from Cagliari to Oristano and then if you want to go all the way up north you have to change trains in Chilivani, not exactly ideal as you will have to stay with their timeline (not exactly ideal), sometimes waiting hours for the next train, and sometimes they even suspend the trains and put you on a random bus instead. That’s why I discourage people to use this method if they are traveling with kids and more than one piece of luggage.

I hope I could be of help.Let me know if you need more info.

What a page you have created! It’s just fantastic

My boyfriend and I are coming to Sardinia for the last week of September. Our intention is to fly into Olbia and stay one night then travel by train to Cagliari for 2 nights then back to Olbia for 4 nights.

Our plan was to stay in Cagliari and visit Villasimius for the day. Then return to Olbia, by train and spend time visiting La Maddalena, San Teodoro, Costa Smeldarada taking day trips from the centre of Olbia. I have noticed in your other responses to people that you don’t advise staying in Olbia. We are having a couple of nights at the end of our trip staying just outside Olbia at the Hotel Luna Lughente.

Given your comments on public transport do you think our itinerary is achievable? And if the city centres are not ideal where (town) would you advise we are best staying given we are reliant on public transport.

I shall look forward to reading your reply.

Hi Jane, sorry! I just saw your comment now (IT issues with the comment section!) I hope you had a great stay in Sardinia! Cheers Clelia

Natalie, Fantastic website, so full of information that I feel I can trust your advice. We are coming to Sardinia for two weeks in September. Where should we stay? We are happy to spend a week in one area and a week in another. Overlooking a harbour would be good as would a village with several eateries. We will hire a car. Requirements include; local culture, history, walking distance to several bar/cafes. Village squares are great, we travel for food. NOT required are beaches, swimming pools, Irish pubs, bingo, night clubs. Thanks in anticipation IanNatalie, sito web fantastico, così pieno di informazioni che ritengo posso fidarmi del tuo consiglio. Stiamo venendo in Sardegna per due settimane in settembre. Dove dovremmo rimanere? Siamo felici di trascorrere una settimana in un’area e una settimana in un’altra. Affacciato su un porto sarebbe bello come un villaggio con diversi ristoranti. Noleggieremo un’auto. I requisiti includono; Cultura locale, storia, a pochi passi da diversi bar / caffetterie. Le piazze del villaggio sono ottime, viaggiamo per il cibo. NON sono richieste spiagge, piscine, pub irlandesi, bingo, night club. Grazie in anticipo Ian

Sorry for the late reply, just trying to catch up with the several comments, emails and private messages about Sardinia! Difficult to answer your question without having a budget first, but I don’t know if you had the time to read my other article with 9 ideas for itineraries in Sardinia (even if it says in one week you can obviously adjust it to your needs and combine 2 itineraries together as many people in the comments did).

However, if you are traveling for the food and culture, my best bet would be the Golfo di Orosei Area including also the inland small villages that will provide you with an authentic cultural experience and great nature. If you have time you can spend one week in there and the second week nearby Oristano/Tharros (to visit the ruins) with a day trip to the Barumini Nuragic complex, which is by far the best historical/cultural site in Sardinia and has been added to the Unesco heritage site official website.

Hope it helps! Cheers Clelia

Thanks Clelia V. much looking forward to Sardinia. Budget was not an issue. What was important was Sardinia and somewhere in walking distance of an evening. Beaches were not needed, local food was very important. Have booked self-catering. Winrent car at Olbia airport. One night in Olbia (late arrival.) 5 nights Alghero 5 nights ​Cagliari 5 nights San Pantaleo

I love your useful comments. My boyfriend and I are visiting Sardinia for 10 days. We are flying in to Cagliari and leaving from Olbia. What is the best itinerary for our stay? Where would you recommend we could go explore without needing a car? We would like to rent bikes and visit nice beaches and enjoy some nice mountain views too.

Hey Dahlia, thanks for your comment! You didn’t tell me when you are going to visit Sardinia, so it is not easy for me to give you specific advice. What I know is that if you want to have a fulfilling ecperience, you will need to rent a car. My brother is passionate about biking and even him uses the car to reach certain destinations in Sardinia, he brings the bike with him in the car and then starts exploring the nearby areas. Biking all around Sardinia is quite impossible, given the luggage, you’ll have to take with you etc. Areas you can explore without needing a car? Not many… I don’t know how many kilometers you can bike, but if you’re talking about places where you can reach the mountains and the beach in 10 minutes… I’d only say San Teodoro, Santa Teresa di Gallura and Villasimius for the beaches. For the mountains is a bit trickier as you should base yourself in Cala Gonone/Dorgali/baunei but biking in there would take some more effort than just an easy stroll.

Sorry for the bad news, but I don’t want to give false expectations to the people who wish to visit Sardinia!

Hi Clelia! I love your website and your name! 🙂 I just booked a bargain easyjet flight for me andmy partner into Oblia on 30th sept, return on 7th October so will have 7 days to explore the island! I’m going to book an air b and b and a car but I wondered if you could tell me if there will be any way to get to Maddelena at this time of year? The tour I saw that takes you around the Maddelena archipelago only runs until September. Is there any boats that still go there in October?? I would be very sad to miss out on seeing the island but will have fun touring and exploring coves of Sardinia if it’s not possible. Will we be able to hire our own boat and discover the coves ourselves in October? Thank you for your website!

Hey Julie, it’s hard to say really. It all depends on the weather. If the companies see that the weather is still good in October, some of them might be able to still be taking you for the boat trip. September is more predictable, October becomes tricky for the boats because of the sea, so you can only wait and see if you’re lucky! Regarding renting your own boat, if you have the skills and don’t need anyone to guide you, it might be an alternative solution but yet again, if the weather is not favorable I would not recommend it. Some year people still go to the beach in Sardinia until mid-October, other years at the end of September is already a bit cold with showers here and there. Good luck!!! 🙂

Hello, Thank you for this amazing blog! Best quality I’ve ever seen! I understand that it is an absolutely “must” to rent a car, so could you please recommend any car rental company? We are looking for a company that offers full insurance (no excess) for a reasonable price and if possible admits payment in cash, as I would like to avoid freezing 2,000EUR on my credit card that I may never see back (we travelers all know bad practices of car rental companies…)

Thank you very much for all the information you shared with us!

Hey Caroline, I get where you are coming from! Renting a car is almost like playing the lottery, there are several car rentals that provide good services but I can not tell you a specific one at the moment. The times I have rented a car I always checked Rentalcars (which is on the sidebar of my blogs about Sardinia). In there you can check out and compare several car companies and please also check out their individual policies. I think the best practice is to either contact them or give them a call asking for details (I prefer the email so that I have a record of what has been said should I need to contest something with the company later on). I hope you will have a great time in Sardinia!

Hello! Thank you so much for producing this website, it is incredible. I was wondering if you could provide me with a little more specific advice? My friend and I are both 22 and we will be in Sardinia from the 4th of July for 10 days. We are flying into Olbia and out of Cagliari. Could you suggest the best places to visit within this time frame? I have looked into car hire and I think it is too expensive for our budget, so we will have to rely on public transport. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!! Thank you

Hey Rebecca, sorry for the late reply but as usual I’ve been overwhelmed by requests! Since you don’t want to rent a car I would suggest you base your holiday in Sardinia either in Villasimius or San Teodoro as they are the best-connected places by bus and have a local beach usually at walking distance from your hotel/apartment. Or you can rent a bike and it’s still doable. Also, they have local buses that will take you to the closest destinations and beaches and plenty of night life if you want to have a bit of fun. I did both when I was penniless in my twenties and had an absolute blast!

Dear Clelia,

First of all thank you for this super informative blog! We are three university students who would like to visit Sardinia for nearly 4 days between June 3-7. We haven’t booked our flights yet as they don’t really differ much in terms of price and times. So we can fly to Alghero, Cagliari or Olbia and are hoping that you can help us figure out which region would suit us the best. We are into cultural sightseeing and devouring copious amounts of delicious local food, but I think beautiful beaches with calm waters(swimming is the absolute priority when visiting the beaches) are also a must in Sardinia. We can’t drive, so renting a car is out of question and we are limited to public transport. Which region would be the better option for us?

We would appreciate your help very much, thank you! Cansu

Sorry guys, I just saw the message 🙁 I hope you had an amazing time in Sardinia

Hi Clelia, we are going to Sardinia for only two days in June. If you only had two days there what would you do and where would you stay? Thank you David

if you only have 2 days (I’m guessing you will fly to Sardinia), your best options are to stay near the airport, so: Cagliari: discover the beaches of Villasimius and Chia/Tuerredda by renting a car, check out the lovely old town, the view from the Bastione di San Remi’ and have a walk / hike to La Sella del Diavolo to admire Cagliari from the top!

Olbia: You can book a place nearby (I wouldn’t suggest Olbia town as it’s not the best), I’d rather stay in San Teodoro or Palau/Arzachena and rent a car to visit Cala Brandinchi and possibly a day trip to Tavolara. If you can hike, there is an incredible trek to the top. The village of San Teodoro has everything you need to enjoy your 2 days (bars, restaurants)

Alghero: Visit the beautiful “La Pelosa beach” during a day trip in Stintino, enjoy the beautiful sunsets over the coast and visit the Nettuno Grotto, either by boat or walking tour.

There are a few articles where I go into details for these 3 cities: 1) Top 10 Sardinia beaches (check out San Teodoro) 2) Sardinia for couples: For Alghero and Cagliari 3) Sardinia in one week: Again for San Teodoro (in here some details are still missing but there are many information that can be useful for you

I’m really surprised with your website. I love it. We´re a couple who wants to visit the island and enjoy its beaches, gastronomy and customs. We don´t like the crowds but not staying in an isolated place. We want to go 15 days in July (6 to 20). In what areas do you advise us to stay in order to know the island well?

Many thanks in advance for your help.

Martín (Spain)

Hey Martin! Ahhh what a question you asked me! July is the high season so it’s nearly impossible to avoid the crowds I’m afraid! As I always say when I get to a place and it’s full of other people I have the mindset that I AM PART OF THE CROWD too! So where you should go? The places that are slightly (and I repeat… slightly!!) less crowded during high season are on the west coast, so everywhere near Oristano (San Giovanni di Sinis and Tharros ruins to name the most popular ones), going further south in the “Iglesiente” (near Iglesias town), you can see the beautiful Masua and Pan di Zucchero, experiencing the local Sardinian vibe of a small village called Nebida. Not much is in there but it is still an experience for itself.

Another place that is “slightly” less crowded is Costa Paradiso and Budoni beach. I’m not a super huge fan of that beach because I’m very spoiled, but it’s a nice big beach with a quiet village (I used to go to the beach by bike).

Last but not least, another option is a village that I truly loved, Baunei in the Golfo di Orosei area. It’s not on the sea but has beautiful views and the traditional Sardinia vibe. If you have a car you can explore super interesting areas, the villages of Dorgali, Orosei and Cala Gonone, each for a day trip, and Baunei is a perfect place for hiking to the marvelous Cala Goloritze which is a must in my opinion, especially if you go there super early in the morning. The area will be obviously more crowded than it is now in July but at least it will be 10000% worth it, I can guarantee you!

The rest of Sardinia, at least where the sea is involved, is pretty much packed with tourists, nothing we can do about it, everyone wants a little piece of paradise for themselves, right? 🙂

I hope it helps!

Hello, I am traveling to Sardinia near the middle of May through a cruise. From what I understand is the port is in Cagliari. What types of transport is available to travel from there to Cala Mariola, or Cala Goloritze beach?

Hey Matthew,

If you are in Cagliari, and on a Cruise, it’s basically impossible to get to Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritze in a day. You would need AT LEAST one night and 2 days, even better if you have 2 nights near Baunei,where you can trek down to Cala Goloritze. So from Cagliari: Car—-> Baunei—–> Trek to Cala Goloritze (I wouldn’t recommend the bus for this, it would take forever) For Cala Mariolu, the only way to reach the beach is by boat, so from Cagliari: car or bus to Arbatax Pier (which is the nearest to Cagliari)—-> boat trip to Cala Mariolu.

As you can see, it’s quite a trip, Sardinia is way bigger than people imagine. Why don’t you take the time you have to visit the Sputhern nearby beaches? Villasimius or Chia/Tuerredda area are also very good choices and can both be reached by bus, with Villasimius being a lot better because of the proximity of the Village to the beaches, while in Chia you would have to walk quite a lot to get there if you only use the bus.

Hope it helps Cheers Clelia

I was more than happy to discover this great site. I want to to thank you for your time just for this fantastic read!!

I definitely savored every little bit of it and i also have you book-marked to see new things in your site.

Thanks so much lulur! I’m so overwhelmed by comments and requests via email and it’s refreshing to see that all the work and passion I’m putting into helping people with their Sardinian holidays is appreciated 🙂

Thank you for your excellent blog. My wife and I are thinking of spending 2 weeks in Sardinia from November 28 to December 11. However, it seems that is not advisable as many hotels and restaurants are closed, and many towns empty out. What do you think? And what places would you recommend for a December trip? Thank you so much for your help.

Hi Ernie! Thanks for stopping by!In December the main touristic villages are a bit dead of course but you can still enjoy the beauty of Sardinia! I’d say to make the most of it you would need to base yourself in the bigger cities where the local usually live (hey we go to restaurants in December!) 🙂 Cagliari could be the perfect starting point for your holiday, everything will be full functioning, you might even be lucky and have a few sunny days, and even if it’s relatively cold you can stll enjoy walking on the beaches nearby with the bonus that they will be completely deserted. Cagliari also has a lot to offer in terms of History, traditions and lovely spots like the old city center, the bastione with its spectacular view and much more. If two weeks in there seem too much and you want to change a bit, I recommend you go to either Oristano or Alghero. Both big cities, so everything will be functioning and so much to discover in the surroundings.

Anyway, my main suggestion is: stick with big cities and rent a car to discover the surrounding villages/beaches and historical/cultural sites. Sardinia is beautiful all year round!

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Hello Clelia, We will be coming to your island for just a short trip of three nights in May. We will be on our Honeymoon! What we have planned is to fly into Olbia an renting a car an driving to Cala Gonone for a few nights. The plan is to rent a boat on go to some of the beaches like Cala Luna. Do you have any tip or ideas we should know?

Thanks Keith F.

Hi Keith, sorry I’ve just seen your comment now! If you are still in time, you can have a look at my huge guide on Sardinia for couples where I give away all the necessary tips for Cala Gonone! Cheers

Hi from Sydney, Australia! My partner and I have only 4 nights – any suggestions on where we should base ourselves in Sardinia? We are arriving from Milan and need to fly to Rome after our stay, any recommendations on flights/ferries would also be very useful! We have quite a jam-packed month in Europe, so these 4 nights will be our downtime – looking for beautiful swimming beaches, restaurants with atmosphere and perhaps a bit of nightlife as well. Planning to hire a car to see as much as possible. Any suggestions at all would be much appreciated! Thank you, Lara

Hi Lara, sorry just saw your comment! when are you coming to Sardinia? Did you also check out my article Sardinia for couples? In there I give a lot of useful tips for different locations and you could choose one from there. From what you say, I think either San Teodoro or Cala Gonone would be great choices! Cheers Clelia

hi i am going to sardinia from the 6 to the 9 of october 2015 i am arriving from corsica so the only port available during that time period is santa teresa

i wanted to stay in Olbia near a beach do you have any recommendations? also i wanted to know how i could get around from santa teresa port to Olbia near a beach

Bus? Train?

thank you for your help steph

Hi Stephanie, to be honest I think that sicne you are arriving in Santa Teresa di Gallura, that could also be a great base for you, without the need of going to Olbia, where there are no great beaches (I’m talking in the immediate surroundings of the city).

i I were you i’d check out Rena Bianca beach, which is the main one in Santa Teresa and from there go by bus to the nearby Palau area. Unfortunately, I can’t guarantee that there will still be boats to the Arcipelago della Maddalena in October (it all depends on the weather). If they are still available, I highly recommend the trip, if not you can just relax at the beach. The public transports to the beaches in low season are not ideal but if you ask the local tourism office they will give you some information about which beaches are reachable by bus from Santa Teresa.

I wouldn’t count on trains to be honest,the buses are usually more and cover more routes! Good luck!

HI CLELIA! AWESOME BLOG! I LOVE IT … SUPER USEFUL! IM FROM VENEZUELA AND I HOPE SOME DAY HAVE THE TIME TO DO THE SAME WITH MY COUNTRY …

WELL, IM PLANNING TO VISIT SARDINIA WITH MY BOYFRIEND AT THE END OF AUG FOR ONLY 5 DAYS. WE LIVE IN LONDON AND WE HAVE OPTION TO TRAVEL TO ALL THE AIRPORTS IN THE ISLAND. HOWEVER, AS WE ONLY HAVE FEW DAYS, I WOULD LIKE TO FOCUS IN JUST ONE AREA…. WHICH AREA WOULD YOU RECOMMEND ? AND WHICH AIRPORT WE SHOULD ARRIVE?

THE MOST IMPORTANT FOR US IS THE BEACH AS SUCH… CLEAR WATER AND WHITE SAND…. ROMANTIC BUT NOT SUPER QUITE…. AND OF COURSE GOOD FOOD / RESTAURANTS…

PLEASE, HELP ME…. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! XX

Hi Catherine, sorry I’ve missed your comment! I hope you had a great stay! 🙂 Note for the other people commenting: If you don’t receive a reply within 7 days, feel free to add an extra comment with a reminder as I’m literally overwhelmed! Thank you 🙂

No sobs needed, boyfriend has decided to spend holiday apart from me 2 days before I arrive , fri 24th, at elmas, cagliari airport. I am determined to go for a shorter version of about 5 days. Want to stay somewhere easy to get to, preferably family, run, friendly b&b or hotel so I have someone to talk to AND where I can go to beaches- I need a rest. I do not want to drive. I speak good italian, tho’ not your dialect ( yet!) Caroline Ps I am a young 52, I work with children so have a mental age of about half that, and am sporty – could hire a bike?!

Hey Caroline,

Sardinia by yourself can also be a very rewarding experience if you speak a bit of Italian (don’t worry Sardinian people speak Italian not just our language)! If I were you I’d go to places like Costa Rei or Villasimius where you can easily rent a bike and have a chance to talk to the locals and visit the nearby beaches. I don’t suggest other nice areas as they would be difficult to visit without the car!

There are plenty of B&B and small hotels everywhere in Sardinia (unfortunately I don’t know them all). All I can say it’s that the beaches easy to reach by bike are also the more touristy so you’ll have to sacrifice a bit of traditional vibe. To get that you’ll have to go inland or to places like Dorgali, Baunei or Orosei, but I honestly don’t recommend using the bike there if you don’t know the road…

Hope it helps (even if you’re leaving tomorrow) sorry but I’ve been overwhelmed with work these days and I’m just catching up with all the messages now! Cheers Clelia

Hi! Me and my family are visiting Sardinia for 2 weeks in august. I’m trying to figure out how long it’ll take to drive from Olbia to Sant’Antioco? Many thanks and kind regards, Boel

Hey Boel, thanks for stopping by! Going from Olbia to Sant’Antioco is a hell of a ride 🙂 (about 3-4 hours). You’ll have to drive to Nuoro first then head towards Oristano and from there follow the indications to Carbonia. If you have a GPS it will be much easier to plan your itinerary in advance and don’t get lost! Cheers Clelia

You really have a great website with a lot of helpful information :). We (2 p) are flying into Alghero end of July and we have approx. 11 days. We are planning on retning a car but not sure where to stay? Maybe 2-3 different places? As we are a bit late many places seem fully booked and i am having some problems finding priceworthy accomodation, do you have any tips? Thank you in advance!! Regards, Natalie

Hi Natalie, Thanks for your message! I know, now the best places are clearly fully booked but you can still try and find some last minute offers. What I noticed is that when I use booking.com for my trips (and also to check the availability for people who use my consultancy services), they usually have discounted prices for good places when there are some last minute cancellation and the hotel/resort wants to fill in the spot.

As per the itinerary, with 10/11 days I’d stay in 2 places max for a relaxing holiday where you can actually see more of a place and 3 places if you want to discover more about Sardinia.

Since you are flying into Alghero I’d recommend the northern part. My favorite places in the North are Stintino, San Teodoro, Santa Teresa di Gallura and Golfo di Orosei. For Stintino and San Teodoro you can even stop for just 1 day on the way, visit La Pelosa (stintino) and Cala Brandinchi beach (San Teodoro) and then stay put in the other locations. The must is the boat trip in Cala Gonone, everyone knows that I’m obsessed with that and you can’t leave Sardinia without this experience!

As for the Accommodation, you can try and check if they have special offers in here (I always look at the reviews to choose my place!)

Alghero Orosei Baunei San Teodoro Santa Teresa Cala Gonone Stintino

My husband and I are going to Sardinia on July 4 for 10 days. This is our second trip. Three years ago we were in Costa Esmeralda and loved it. This time we are going to stay in San Teodoro because we saw the La Cinta beach and decided that we must visit it. We are renting a car to visit some nearby places and beaches, any special must see nearby? And what about restaurants near San Teodoro? Can you recomend us some reasonable ones, preferable where the locals eat? We spent a lot of money eating in Porto Cervo the last time, and we do not intend to spend that much this time. Is San Teodoro as nice and fun as they describe it? I am a regular contributer to Tripadvisor and I like your website. It comes from local with plenty of knowledge that I feel I can trust, Thank you.

A bit delayed with my reply, but here I am 🙂 I bet you spent a lot eating in Costa Smeralda as it’s the most expensive part of Sardinia! San Teodoro is definitely cheaper and you can find good resturants serving local dishes for a decent price like in here and here .

San Teodoro, together with Villasimius is one of the best places for its nightlife, I’ve been there on holidays a few times and loved it. La Cinta and Cala Brandinchi are very nice even if during peak season can get quite crowded so my advice here is to go early in the morning and use a car to move away from La Cinta (visit Capo Coda Cavallo, Lu Impostu, Budoni) as La Cinta is a place where people without a car tend to stay and even if it’s quite big it fills up with tourist pretty quickly during the day.

I still love it, but some people expect to find it deserted and quiet during the summer month, so their expectations can be totally wrong. I know Sardinia and I also know that to find a beautiful beach not crowded in peak season is almost impossible (not to mention the weekends), so I just deal with it and still enjoy the beauty of the beach even if I have to share it with other people 🙂

I think it’s quite important to point this out so that people know what to expect.. I hope you’ll have a great time here!

I would like to say the site is amazing.

I am due to fly this saturday to Olbia and we are looking to stay in near Pittulongu Beach & Pellicano Beach – After looking at your guide I was little worried that I will miss out on the best beaches you have outlined. This is my second visit and we stayed on algero – I must say the beaches we visited were amazing. I cant remember the exact name of them.

I am trying to create an itenaray and will be staying for 6 nights. I dont really want to drive but I was trying to understand a fairly central location on the east cost so we not to far from olbia but not miles away from the south. Can you please advise. or make any suggesstions.

I am looking for a nice clean beach holiday, golden sands, to relax. I assume the beaches above will do this? Im i positioning myself in terms of location to go to the your no1 choice in your best beaches section? if not what would you suggest? would you stay around olbia? are you aware of any boat trips from the beaches outlined above or nearby?

Thank you so much

Glad you liked my website 🙂 Unfortunately, I’ll have to rush all the requests these days as I’m traveling and the internet is not very good, so I’d say my n.1 choice is Golfo di Orosei without any doubt. But for white sand beaches the ones around Olbia /Costa Smeralda are awesome. I also created another great guide with all the info on some more beaches (it’s a guide for couples but you can get A LOT of info even if you are not going for a romantic Holiday), check it our as it’s basically a book of the best places in Sardinia, How to get there, boat trips and more!

Near Olbia there is the Boat trip to Arcipelago della Maddalena and I talk about that one too on my new guide 🙂 Hope this helps!

We are thinking to come to Sardegna, we shall stop in Cagliari I am lookng for somewhere relaxing but at the same time not isolated and happy not to be too far away from centre etc. Where is best to stay? I would like a nice resort, yet as I said before don’t want to be isolated Thanks 🙂

Hey Stephanie! Sorry, I’ve been incredibly busy these weeks as I’m traveling non stop until the end of June! You can check out my new guide (it’s for couples but I go into great detail for the Cagliari area with advice on EVERYTHING!), it took me one month to put it together and I’m sure you will find the help you need in there! If not, write a comment below the guide and I’ll try to help 🙂

I just stumbled across your site and this is VERY short notice but I am flying into Olbia tomorrow late afternoon and have 6 nights on the Island ( travelling solo) and wanted to mix up some time on the coast visiting some nice beaches if it’s warm enough, with some hiking nothing too far inland. Would you recommend I base myself somewhere for the entire 6 nights or perhaps split it between two towns say, and if so, where would you recommend that’s no more than 1-1.5 hrs from Olbio airport? Thanks so much and I appreciate your help at such short notice. Sally

I guess this was bad timing as I couldn’t reply to any message for the past few days as I was traveling too! I hope you have a great time in Sardinia! 🙂

Hi First congrats to the amazing website super useful!!

i am going there 10 days beginning of august with my best friend (2 girls 30 years old)

We have many questions such as: – how much does it cost to rent a car for 10 days (all included insurance and whatever hidden costs?) – is it worth renting a car or is it easy to move around? – there is so much to see, is 10 days sufficient to see most of the island? – or shall we plan to only stay in 1 area for 10 days (north OR south?) – would you find it useful to stay 5 days north and 5 days south? – how long does it take from north to south in car?

thanks so much

Hey Julie, Thanks for your message! I’m writing a short note to all of you who asked me for some tailored itineraries to let you know that I’ll be replying to everyone in 3-4 days as tomorrow I’ll be heading to Rimini to speak at a conference, so no time to work o the blog, but stay tuned! 🙂

Hi Julie! Thanks for your message!

I loved it as it reminded me of the times I spent driving around Sardinia with my best friends! such good times!! Ok, straight to your questions! 🙂

-how much does it cost to rent a car for 10 days (all included insurance and whatever hidden costs?)

Since I never rented a car in Sardinia (I have my own), I’m still studying the best options for my readers and at the moment my best advice would be, check it online, there are a few very good websites for renting cars and they offer you the major companies which are in my opinion also the most reliable. What I usually do when I try something new is google the name of the company adding “reviews” or “scams”, this way you’ll see immediately if the company has some major issue. Obviously I’d expect every company to have a few complaints here and there, but the majority of the reviews have to be good to convince me!

– is it worth renting a car or is it easy to move around?

Straight answer: YES! it’s definitely worth it. Public transport in Sardinia is not ideal and not easy to understand (even for the locals!). Don’t get me wrong, when I was younger I traveled around Sardinia by bus and trains so it’s doable but it’s not the best way, also considering that the best beaches are usually only reachable by car, so you’re going to miss out if you don’t rent a car!

– there is so much to see, is 10 days sufficient to see most of the island?

I know, right!? Unfortunately, Sardinia is not a small island (some people tend to think that you can see everything in one week…I wish!!), so 10 days are good enough to see 2 max 3 places without rushing too much

– or shall we plan to only stay in 1 area for 10 days (north OR south?)

If you want an absolutely relaxing vacation or want to discover a specific area more, be social and meet new people, then this is a great option. I stayed even 2 weeks in the same place and I had the opportunity to really discover the surrounding areas and meet some great people! If you wish to see more than one place, 10 days are Ok, which leads to the next question!

– would you find it useful to stay 5 days north and 5 days south?

In my opinion, yes it could certainly be done, but if I had to follow my preferences, I’d stay in 2 places that are relatively close to each other and possibly on the same coast. I usually recommend to check out the Golfo di Orosei area for the boat trips (awesome) and then head up north to Cannigione/Arzachena for the other smashingly beautiful boat trip to the Arcipelago della maddalena. If you want to have a bit more of social life, San Teodoro is also a good choice, but it can be very crowded in peak season, so it depends on what you want to get from your holiday. For relaxing times, maybe San Teodoro is not the right choice, for fun times, definitely yes!

Visiting the North and the south is also possible in 10 days (splitting the holiday in 2) but it’s more stressful and I’d recommend only 2 places as a base so you can actually see something. A possible itinerary including North and South could be :

1) Palau Area and Villasimius (located on the same coast) 2) Stintino/Alghero and Chia/Tuerredda beach 3)Santa Teresa Di Gallura and Costa Rei

There are so many combinations really, but I particularly like these ones to get to see some of the best beaches around

– how long does it take from north to south in car?

From Alghero (west coast) to Cagliari is 3 hours max (going slow and including a few stops) from Olbia (east coast) to Cagliari is also around 3 hours if you take the main road 131 passing through Oristano, and this is also the easiest and fastest way, but if you want to stop to check out some nice spots, there is the coastal road passing through San Teodoro, Nuoro and then the Muravera/Costa Rei and Villasimius areas.

This route is longer and you can choose it only if you plan to stop for a day or 2 in one of these places, and it’s also a bit wilder and panoramic in some places, but there are more turns and it’s more stressful (but I love to drive and stop in random wild places, so I prefer this route actually).

If you don’t want to be too adventurous, just go for the main road and you’ll cross Sardinia in 3 hours max.

hope this helps! Cheers Clelia 🙂

Hi ! I came across your website and decided to book a week in Sardinia in end of July for me and my family. Do you have any recommendations for good restaurants? We are staying in Stintino, Alghero and La Maddalena.

Btw, we love your tips on beaches, hopefully we can visit a few of them. Have a nice day ! / Olle

I’m just about to finish a massive guide which will cover some restaurants in Alghero and some other places. MY recommendations for restaurant is to always ask around when you’re there, that’s because sometimes they might have changed the management over time so the locals know the new trends and the best places to eat out!

Usually, the Hotels and resorts are the best places to ask, but if you are able to communicate with the locals is obviously even better! I always found the best places by chatting with people.

But still, stay tuned as In one day (hopefully) I’ll be publishing the new guide whit tons of new info. It was meant to be addressed to couples, but it’s so detailed that it can be easily used by anyone!

Hiya! My husband and I weren’t really sure where to go this year on holiday, but after coming across your website and the Best Sardinian Beaches page, it made our mind up! Anyway, we have booked to go to San Teodoro. The picture of the beach just won us over! But I wonder if you can help us with one little thing? We have booked flights and a hotel but now need to arrange our transfers from Oblia airport to the hotel. We’ve looked on line and it looks as though this is an hours drive but the companies are charging around £150 return. Is that about the going rate or would we be better to jump in a taxi when we get there (around 8pm on a Saturday night)? Many thanks for your help Claire

Hey Claire, glad I “convinced” you to visit my island! 🙂 As for the transport, which companies did you check out? as 150£ is way too much to get to San Teodoro from Olbia! Did you check ARST website? It’s the most popular bus transport in the Island and the prices are not that high! I checked out for you as their website is not only just in Italian, but even Italian people find it hard to understand it.

So there is a bus departing from Olbia Airport at 9:50pm and arriving at S. Teodoro at 22: 26 PM. A single ticket for that distance (a little more than 30 km) doesn’t cost more than 5 euros (and it’s an inflated fare if you buy the ticket directly on the bus).

This bus is available from mid-June until mid-September. Paying 150£ is getting scammed!!! Hope it helps! 🙂

I love the site. Great info. I am looking to visit Sardinia in july. Family of 3. 1 Adult and two children. Where would you recommend

Thanks in advance

Hi Emmanuel it all depends on what you want to do, how long you want to stay and what you’d like to see the most. I suggest you to check out my other articles (and replies on the first one as they are very detailed, depending on the needs): Top Sardinia Beaches Sardinia for Families (This one gives you general info and I’m going to add more info in the next few weeks!)

Hope it helps! Ps: A reminder for everyone leaving a comment: the more specific you are, the better is for me to give you a helpful answer as people have different needs and Sardinia has so much to offer!

Thank you 🙂

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How To Get To Sardinia: Ultimate Guide For Travel In 2024

Heading to Italy, and thinking of including Sardinia Island in your itinerary? Good choice. You can travel to Sardinia from mainland Italy easily, but you can also get to Sardinia from any international destinations. If you’re weighing options on how to get to Sardinia, then you’re in the right place.

I mainly headed to Sardinia because of the scuba diving. When I got there, I was so amazed by the beauty- it felt different from the rest of Italy. With medieval towns, a gorgeous coastline, and beautiful nature , Sardinia is more slow paced, quaint and with its stone buildings, has an otherworldly atmosphere.

Between beaches, hiking, scuba diving, shopping and exploring villages, I was so glad that we made time for Sardinia and I’m sure that you’ll be glad you did too. If you’re heading to Sardinia with kids , or for a relaxing adult adventure -we’ve got you covered.

So let’s talk about your options for getting to Sardinia. Let’s jump in!

How to Get to Sardinia

There are two ways to get to Sardinia: by air , or by ferry.

Flying to Sardinia is faster and cheaper, but taking a ferry allows you to bring your own car. The ferry also has some entertainment for kids, which might be a benefit if you’re travelling through Italy with little ones.

Let’s go through the two options of air and ferry to Sardinia so you can weigh the information and decide which is best for you.

Flying to Sardinia

As you can see in the map above, Sardinia Island has three airports: Olbia , Cagliari and Alghero . There are flights to all of them from many European cities, but it may not always be a direct route. There are plenty of direct flights from mainland Italy.

Pro Tip: Flights and ferries to Sardinia are a different price for residents than for tourists. If you’re a tourist, be sure not to select a resident flight option. You will be asked to pay for a new flight, and getting your money back for the original resident flight is a hassle you don’t want.

There are no direct flights to Sardinia Island from outside of Europe , so you’ll need to already be in Europe to get a direct flight to Sardinia. Of course, if you’re already on mainland Italy, then there are plenty of direct flights to all three Sardinia airports daily.

Cagliari Airport: Southern Sardinia (Main Airport) 

Cagliari is the capital and largest city in Sardinia and is located in the south of the island. Cagliari is the main airport and city on Sardinia. Flying here is especially convenient if you’re looking to visit the southern part of Sardinia , but you can also rent a car and drive wherever on the island you wish. (This is what we chose to do.)

How long does it take to fly to Cagliari , Sardinia?

• Cagliari from Rome: under 50 minutes
• Cagliari from London, UK: 2h 45 mins

Pro Tip: Use Skyscanner to see all airline options and be able to select the flight that fits with your schedule and budget the best

Nearby attractions and things to do in Caligari:

Cagliari Airport brings you close to the city of Cagliari , which you can see in a day or two. (I don’t recommend spending your whole trip there, but it is worth spending a day sightseeing.) In or near Cagliari, you can find:

• Archaeological sights , such as the Bastion St. Remy which you can climb and get picturesque city views from the top
• Take a tour of Nora , a pre-Roman archaeological site
• Beautiful cathedrals and churches, such as the Cathedral of Calgliari (pictured above)
• An amazing underground tunnel in Cagliari that you can explore
• Poetto beach , an 8 km long strip that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Cagliari, just 20 minutes from downtown Cagliari
• Hiking in the Sette Fratelli Mountains Park , a breathtaking mountainous range, just over an hour from the city of Cagliari

Olbia Airport: Northeast Sardinia

Olbia is in the northeast part of Sardinia , close to Costa Smerlda. This is probably the most popular destination for honeymooners and couples, and the most expensive, luxurious area on the island. (I’ve heard that celebrities travel here.)

In this area, you can do scuba diving, boat tours to the islands, explore the quaint towns, and enjoy world-class beaches that make you feel like you’re in paradise.

There are flights to Olbia from many cities in Italy, and throughout Europe, but here’s an idea of how long it takes to fly to Olbia:

• Olbia from Rome: 1h 5 min
• Olbia from London, UK: 2h 30 min

Nearby attractions and things to do in Olbia:

• Explore the ancient city of Olbia; there are museums, archaeological and historic sights. A fun way to do this is a 1-hour tuk tuk tour.
• Take a boat tour to Maddalena archipelago , which are islands that have been inhabited since the prehistoric times and are surrounded with the clearest, most turquoise water
• Explore the nearby marine life and even WW2 plane wrecks underwater with Nautilis Dive Centre
• Explore the quaint town of Palau
• World class beaches – the east coast of Sardinia has some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, such as Principe Beach , Brandinchini, Capriccioli, and La Celvia

Alghero Airport: Northwest Sardinia

Alghero is a city is in the northwest part of Sardinia . Its a beautiful, medieval coastal city with ancient walls and cobblestone old town, and almost feels like a fairy tale.

It’s very busy in the summer months with tourists, but there’s a reason for that. Whether you choose to fly into Alghero, or simply stop here to explore, you’ll be glad you saw it.

• Alghero from Rome: 1h 5 mins
• Alghero from London, UK: 2h 30 mins

Nearby attractions and things to do in Alghero:

• Alghero Historic Centre (Centro Storico) which is the medieval old town , with narrow streets, cobbled alleys and lots of boutiques, shops and restaurants
• Neptune Caves (Cape Caccia), which is a stunning grotto , just 30 mins outside of Alghero
• Porto Conte Regional National Park , a seaside conservation area with hiking trails and beaches. Great for hiking and spending time outdoors
• Le Pelosa Beach , on the coastline of the northwestern tip of Sardinia- white sand and tranquil blue waters, its great for swimming and snorkeling

Conclusion: Flying to Sardinia

As you can see, all three airports in Sardinia offer great benefits in terms of what there is to do nearby. Regardless of the one you choose, you can still travel to the areas on other parts of the island.

Travelling to Sardinia by Ferry

Everything you need to know about travelling to Sardinia by ferry, the lengths of times, different ferry ports and what they have to offer

As you can see in the photo above, there are several ferry ports on Sardinia island, but the main two main ones are Cagliari and Olbia.

The advantages of travelling by ferry are that you can bring your own car. However, this isn’t the only reason to take a ferry. Some people prefer ferries if they’re travelling with kids or if they want more space and room for luggage.

Ferry to Sardinia from Italy

Ferries to and from Italy to Sardinia are often overnight, and last anywhere from 7-15 hours, depending on where you’re going or coming from. There are restaurants on board, entertainment for kids, and cabins that you can sleep in.

It’s not a luxury, high-class cruise, like a Disney Cruise , but the ferries are pleasant enough.

There are a few different ferry companies that you can sail from Italy to Sardinia (or back) with; the two main ones are Moby (pictured above), Tirrenia, Corsica Ferries and Grimaldi .

You can take a ferry to Sardinia from the following places in mainland Italy:

• Civitavecchia (82 km from Rome ) to Caligari, Arbataz, Olbia and Porto Torres
• Livorno (near Pisa) to Olbia or Golfo Arranci
• Naples to Caligari
• Genoa (in northern Italy) to Porto Torres

The ferry company you choose to will depend on if you have a strong preference for where you’re coming from or where in Sardinia you wish to dock at. For example, Moby lines only sails to Olbia from Livorno, Italy.

If you wanted to sail to Porto Torres for example, then you’d need to sail with Tirreni or Grandi Navi Veloci, as they’re the only two ferry companies that go to Porto Torres from mainland Italy.

Pro Tip: Use Direct Ferries to see all the schedules and port options for your ferry trip to or from Sardinia. This makes it easy to see all of the available options rather than having to check each website individually.

Choosing your Ferry port in Sardinia

Regardless of which port in Sardinia you choose to sail into, you can’t really go wrong. They all have beautiful attractions nearby, and there are perks to each one. If you’re renting a car in Sardinia, then you can all of the top destinations within a few days.

So just because you sailed into Olbia, for example, doesn’t mean you won’t be able to drive over to Porto Torres (its about a 90 minute drive.)

However, here are the highlights of each of the ports, to make your decision easier:

• Cagliari: beautiful old town, historic city centre with museums and artifacts, hiking in the Sette Fratelli Mountains Park
• Arbatax: visit the nearby Red Cliffs, an impressive rock formation, Rocce Rosse museum, hiking in the Supramonte mountain range or the Gennargentu National Park, beautiful beaches such as Orri and Cea beach
• Olbia: charming old towns, boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago, the 11th century Basilica of San Simplicio church, beautiful sandy beaches with crystal-clear water such as Pittulongu, Bados and Marinella
• Porto Torres: ancient town with Roman architecture (it was the first Roman settlement, so needless to say, its history is very rich) quaint old town with old city walls, stunning nearby beaches, hiking

Ferry to Sardinia from mainland Europe

You can get ferries to Sardinia from France and Spain. Grimaldi Lines sails from Spain to Sardinia.

From France, you can depart from Nice to go to Sardinia by ferry. From Nice, you can sail to either Porto Torres or Golfo Aranci.

Check Direct Ferries to view schedules and timetables and book your ferry

Getting to Sardinia: FAQs

Here are the most common questions that travellers ask (and that we wish we had asked) about getting to and around Sardinia island in Italy

What is the fastest way to get to Sardinia?

The fastest way to get to Sardinia is undoubtedly, by flying. Flying is cheaper and quicker, but there are perks to taking the ferry too, such as being able to more easily bring kids, pets or luggage. Plus, you can bring your own car on the ferry, which saves you having to rent one on Sardinia.

What airport do you fly into for Sardinia?

You have three airports to fly into on Sardinia island: Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero. The largest one and main city is Cagliari .

How long is ferry from Italy to Sardinia?

It depends where in Italy you sail from. You can sail from Civitavecchia (north of Rome), Livorno (near Pisa), Naples, Sicily, or Genoa. The length of time you’ll be on the ferry travelling to or from any of these places to Sardinia will range from 8 to 15 hours.

Is Sardinia an expensive destination?

Yes, Sardinia is noticeably more expensive than mainland Italy – you can expect to pay a bit more for accommodations and food. This is to be expected though, because many of their goods are imported from mainland Italy and other areas – this adds to the cost of the product.

What is the best month to visit Sardinia?

The most popular time to visit Sardinia is the summer, with average highs reaching 32 °C (89.6°F.) There is also more frequent service during the months of May through to September, since this is when most tourists visit. For example, ferries and flights travel more frequently in summer months than any other time of year.

Can you get around Sardinia without a car?

Yes, you can get around Sardinia without a car. You can bike (although likely not throughout the whole island unless you’re extremely ambitious) and there are also taxis. Taxis can be hailed on the street, or you can book them online. There is also public transportation in Sardinia – ARST, which operates buses throughout the island, and Trenitalia, a train network throughout Italy, including Sardinia. Renting a car is probably the easiest option, but you have these other options as well.

Final Thoughts on Getting to Sardinia

Regardless of your method of travel to Sardinia, you are sure to fall in love with its medieval and ancient buildings, its natural beauty, and stunning beaches, laid back atmosphere and kind people. Whether you’re travelling with kids, or you’re on your honeymoon, Sardinia will have activities that will leave you fondly remembering your trip forever.

We chose to do both: we flew from Rome to Sardinia (to the Cagliari airport), and rented a car to drive around the island. When we returned to mainland Italy, we took a ferry from Sardinia to Livorno, which is near Pisa.

How To Get To Sardinia From America: A Comprehensive Guide

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Sardinia, the enchanting Italian island, is a popular destination among tourists for its pristine beaches, unique culture, and enticing cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Sardinia from America, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the various options available for your journey. Let’s explore the best ways to reach this Mediterranean paradise from the United States.

Understanding Your Starting Point

Before diving into the details of how to get to Sardinia from America , it’s essential to understand that there are no direct flights from the United States to Sardinia. Consequently, you’ll need to plan a layover in Europe, where you can catch a connection to the island. With this in mind, it’s crucial to choose a European city that offers convenient flight or ferry options to Sardinia.

Flying to Europe

The first leg of your journey will involve flying from a major US city to a European hub. Some popular European cities that serve as convenient layovers for travelers heading to Sardinia include Rome, Milan, Paris, London, and Barcelona. These cities have direct flights to Sardinia or provide ferry services that connect to the island.

Major Airlines

When flying from the US to Europe, you can choose from several airlines, including:

• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• United Airlines
• British Airways

It’s advisable to check for deals and discounts offered by these airlines, as well as their flight schedules, to find the most suitable option for your journey.

Direct Flights to Sardinia from European Hubs

Once you’ve reached your European layover city, you can opt for a direct flight to Sardinia. Several airlines operate nonstop flights from major European cities to Sardinia’s airports, including:

• Ita (formerly Alitalia)

Flight Duration

The duration of direct flights to Sardinia from various European cities varies:

• Rome to Sardinia: 50-70 minutes
• Milan to Sardinia: 70-90 minutes
• Paris to Sardinia: 2 hours 10 minutes
• London to Sardinia: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Barcelona to Sardinia: 1 hour 30 minutes

Sardinia’s Airports

Sardinia has three airports that cater to international travelers:

• Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) – Located in the south, near the island’s capital, Cagliari.
• Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) – Situated in the northeast, close to the famous Costa Smeralda.
• Alghero Fertilia Airport (AHO) – Found in the northwest, near the city of Alghero.

Depending on your final destination in Sardinia, you’ll need to choose the most suitable airport for your arrival. For more information on Airports in Sardinia please view our comprehensive article here

Connecting Flights within Europe

If direct flights to Sardinia are not available from your European layover city, you may need to book a connecting flight within Europe. Some options include:

• Flying from your layover city to Rome or Milan, and then booking a separate flight to Sardinia.
• Catching a low-cost airline, such as Ryanair or EasyJet, which offer flights to Sardinia from various European cities. However, keep in mind that these flights may have limited schedules and luggage restrictions.

Traveling to Sardinia by Ferry

An alternative to flying is taking the ferry to Sardinia. This option allows you to bring your car, giving you the freedom to explore the island at your leisure. Ferries to Sardinia are available from mainland Italy, France, and Spain.

Ferry Companies

Several ferry companies operate routes to Sardinia:

• Grimaldi Lines
• Grandi Navi Veloci
• Corsica Ferries / Sardinia Ferries

Ferry Routes

Ferries from Italy to Sardinia depart from Civitavecchia (near Rome), Genoa, Livorno, Piombino, Naples, and Palermo. French ferries leave from Toulon, Marseille, Ajaccio, and Bastia, while the Spanish ferry sails from Barcelona to Porto Torres.

Sardinian Ports

Sardinia has several ports where ferries from Europe dock:

• Porto Torres
• Golfo Aranci
• Santa Teresa di Gallura (connecting to Corsica)

Car Travel and Ferry Combinations

For those who prefer a road trip, you can drive from the UK or other European countries to a port city offering ferry services to Sardinia. However, this option can be time-consuming and expensive due to fuel costs, tolls, and overnight accommodations. It is generally more convenient to fly and rent a car upon arrival in Sardinia.

Exploring Sardinia

Once you’ve reached Sardinia, you can start exploring its stunning beaches, historical sites, and picturesque towns. Renting a car is the most convenient way to discover the island at your own pace. Alternatively, you can rely on public transportation, such as buses and trains, to navigate between cities and popular tourist spots.

Recommended Hotel in Alghero

Recommended hotel in cagliari, recommended hotel in costa smeralda, best time to visit sardinia.

The ideal time to visit Sardinia depends on your preferences. The summer months, from June to August, offer warm weather and bustling tourist activities. However, if you prefer a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October, when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are fewer.

Safety in Sardinia

Sardinia is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s essential to exercise common sense, such as securing your belongings and being cautious in crowded tourist areas.

Final Thoughts Getting to Sardinia from America requires careful planning and consideration of the various travel options available. By understanding the different routes and transportation methods, you can tailor your journey to best suit your preferences and budget. Whether you choose to fly or take a ferry, Sardinia’s captivating beauty and charm await your arrival. Happy travels, and enjoy your time in Sardinia!

Other Guides

How to get to Corsica from Sardinia

How to get to Sardinia from Europe

How to get to Sardinia from Ireland

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This Italian Island Has Tranquil Villages, Stunning Beaches, and Luxury Hotels — Here's How to Plan Your Trip

Everything you need to know to plan the perfect vacation on Sardinia.

Sardinia's famous Costa Smeralda, a 12-mile stretch of dreamy shoreline along the northeast, attracts travelers looking to immerse themselves in la dolce vita. And really, with its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, rugged coastline, ancient archaeological sites, and fascinating culture and traditions, who could blame them? The Mediterranean island truly does have it all.

Sardinia is the second-largest island in Italy after Sicily and is located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The island spans 9,305 square miles (or slightly larger than the state of Vermont) and is home to about 1.64 million people. The closest land to Sardinia is another island, Corsica, which is only about eight miles north. Sardinia lies 125 miles from the coast of mainland Italy and about the same distance from the shores of Northern Africa.

The island — with its idyllic mountains and tranquil villages, giving way to bustling resort towns along its rocky coastline — offers an abundance of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you want to bask in the sun, take in the breathtaking views, or taste the local culture, the island will leave a lasting impression on you.

How to Get to Sardinia

Visitors can either fly to one of the three main airports in Sardinia (Cagliari Elmas Airport, Olbia Airport, and Alghero Fertilia Airport) or take a scenic — albeit long — ferry ride to the island. There are multiple daily flights between Italy's major cities and the island, including Rome and Milan, and many of those are operated by low-cost airlines for as cheap as €8. You can also fly to the island from many European cities, including London, Frankfurt, Munich, Paris, Brussels, and many more.

If time is not of the essence (or you would like to bring a car), take a ferry from mainland Italy, France, or Barcelona. Sardinia has five ferry ports, so you can take the slow route whenever you wish.

The Best Times to Go to Sardinia

While many consider the Italian island a summer spot, Sardinia offers plenty to do and see year-round.

If you are after its sun-drenched picture-perfect beaches, the best time to visit Sardinia is during the peak season between June and September, when temperatures soar. If packed beaches are not your thing, consider stopping by at the end of September or October, when the sea is still warm, but most tourists have left the island.

Sardinia is also beautiful in the spring — between March and May — when the flowers and trees are in full bloom, and the weather is perfect for hiking. May is also when the Feast Of Sant'efisio Cagliari takes place. It's a multi-day festival, where thousands of participants accompany the statue of Sant'efisio from Cagliari to Nora and back, roughly a 40-mile journey.

Autunno in Barbagia takes place every fall and lasts a whopping three months. Visitors can enjoy cultural events on weekends dedicated to local arts and crafts. And every winter, the island celebrates Carnival di Mamoiada , one of Sardinia's oldest and most mysterious festivals dating back thousands of years.

Things to Do in Sardinia

Castello, Cagliari

Set on a hill in Sardinia's capital, the historic Castello district is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Cagliari and holds many of the city's significant landmarks. The narrow streets, flanked by ancient buildings, historic palazzos, and churches, transport travelers back in time. Some must-see sights include the Bastione di Saint Remy fort for its panoramic views and beautiful classic architecture, the Cagliari Cathedral and its bell tower, and the Archaeological Museum.

Su Nuraxi Nuraghe

Central Sardinia is home to the island's only UNESCO World Heritage Site and most important archaeological landmark, a striking example of prehistoric architecture called Su Nuraxi Nuraghe. A nuraghe is a defensive stone structure that originated in Sardinia in the Bronze Age. The complex comprises a central stone tower that once reached almost 61 feet in height and four smaller towers connected by a curtain wall.

Porto Flavia

Located near Nebida in the southwest, Porto Flavia looks like it belongs to a scene from "Game of Thrones." Directly built into the cliff and facing the sea, this port is considered a masterpiece of mining engineering that served as a loading dock. Two tunnels connect the port to a mine that once allowed workers to quickly load minerals onto the ships. Today, visitors can tour the site only by appointment and with a guide for safety reasons. The hour-long tour includes a walk along the upper tunnel that ends at the terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and coastline.

The Neptune's Grotto

This two-million-year-old cave in Capo Caccia, Alghero, is one of Sardinia's most-visited natural wonders. Arrival at its entrance is either via boat or a staircase built on the side of a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. Once inside, visitors are introduced to a beautiful world full of wondrous natural sculptures known as stalactites and stalagmites. The grotto is also home to one of the largest saltwater lakes in Europe, Lago Lamarmora.

Castelsardo

Castelsardo, often ranked as one of Italy's most charming villages, occupies a hill on the northwest of the island. With its landscape dominated by the perfectly preserved medieval Doria castle, colorful houses spilling down the cliff sides, and the glistening waters of the Mediterranean, Castelsardo looks like it's out of a fairy tale.

Porto Cervo

The crown jewel of Sardinia's renowned Costa Smeralda is this small resort town that, in the summer, becomes the glitzy playground of the international jet set. Its picturesque port fills up with luxury (mega)yachts, and its streets are bustling with celebrities, socialites, and political dignitaries, soaking up the Sardinian sun and dolce vita lifestyle.

Where to Stay in Sardinia

Hotel Cala di Volpe

SP160, 07021 Capriccioli SS, Italy +39 0789 976111 Marriott.com

Located on the stunning Costa Smeralda, the glamorous waterfront Hotel Cala di Volpe treats its guests to spacious suites, a dazzling beach, an Olympic-size saltwater pool, a golf course, and a wellness center and spa, among other high-end facilities. While lush, Mediterranean landscapes surround the property, it is a short eight-minute drive from the vibrant downtown area of Porto Cervo.

Hotel Li Finistreddi

Loc. Micalosu Via le Finestrelle, 07021 Cannigione +39 0789 869144 finistreddi.it

Perched on a hill in the heart of Costa Smeralda, this almost 15-acre property offers vistas of Sardinia's emerald coast and La Maddalena archipelago. Hotel Li Finistreddi has three villas with swimming pools and 19 suites with private entrances and sea views. During the day, guests can lounge by the property's two pools or take a shuttle to the dreamy white-sand Barca Bruciata Beach.

Petra Segreta Resort & Spa

Via Stazzu Malcusa, 07026 San Pantaleo +39 0789 187 6441 petrasegretaresort.com

As the only Relais & Châteaux property in Sardinia, the sprawling Petra Segreta Resort & Spa offers guests a memorable experience set against the idyllic backdrop of stunning Costa Smeralda. The resort, nestled on 12 scenic acres of verdant forest, has 25 rooms and suites set in traditional Sardinian stone houses with private patios and modern interiors. The resort's fine-dining restaurant, il Fuoco Sacro, is among the best on the island and mainland Italy and serves patrons delectable "dishes full of modern Italian flavor," according to the Michelin Guide .

La Villa del Re

Località Su Cannisoni, 09040 Castiadas CA +39 070 775 3009 Lavilladelre.com

This adults-only boutique hotel sits in a scenic park on the southeast coast of Sardinia and offers front-row views of the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Costa Rei. The property's facade invokes traditional Sardinian architecture, while its 50 rooms and suites are all about soothing palettes and timeless elegance. The private beach and chic infinity pool are perfect for enjoying the hot Sardinian sun with a cocktail in hand. The hotel's pool-side restaurant, Bella Vista, lives up to its name and treats patrons to gorgeous sea views and delicious Mediterranean fare.

Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa

Lungomare Valencia, 1, 07041 Alghero SS +39 079 981818 Hotelvillalastronas.it

With its classic tower-inspired Belle Epoque architecture, gardens, and dramatic location, Villa Las Tronas is a unique base to explore Alghero and Sardinia's northwest coast. The spacious 24 rooms are all about Old World charm, clad in marble or parquet floors, crystal chandeliers, and vintage furniture. The hotel's spa features an indoor pool, a Turkish bath, and a sauna, while the seafront restaurant offers a seasonal vegetarian menu.

Località Mucchi Bianchi, 07021 Baja Sardinia SS, Italy +39 0789 99880 7pines.com

This brand new resort opens in July 2022 in a remote cove in Baja Sardinia. With 76 light-filled, spacious rooms and suites overlooking its gardens or the sea, 7Pines is a stylish retreat just a short drive from vibrant Porto Cervino. The two pools nestled amid swaying palms and surrounded by sunbeds and cabanas are the epitome of Italian chic, while those who prefer to take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean can head to the resort's main beach or explore the secluded coves around the property.

Related Articles

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Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking sardinia flights, do i need a visa to travel to sardinia.

US citizens don’t need a visa to travel as tourists to Sardinia, Italy, as long as they don’t plan to stay in the region for more than 90 days. You do, however, need a passport that’s valid up to at least six months after the date of entry in the country and with enough blank pages for entry stamps.

What’s the most convenient way to travel from Cagliari Airport?

Cagliari Airport is 7 km (4.3 mi) from the city center. If you’re not carrying a lot of luggage, the fastest and cheapest way to reach the city is by taking the Trenitalia train that departs every 20m between 5:00 am and 9:00 pm. The trip takes about 5m, and a one-way ticket costs 1,30 € (about $1.45). You can purchase the ticket online or at the machines at the arrivals hall at the airport. For passengers traveling with a lot of luggage or as a family, taking a taxi is the best option. Taxis are metered, but expect a fare of around 15-20 € (approximately $16-22).

What’s the quickest way to travel from Olbia Airport?

Olbia Airport is about 4 km (2.4 mi) from the city center. Taking a taxi is the easiest and fastest way to reach the city in 10m, and it offers the added advantage of a fixed fare of 15 € (approximately $17).

How do I travel from Alghero Airport?

Alghero Airport is 10 km (6.2 mi) from the city center; you can travel by bus or taxi. If you choose to travel by public bus, take line 9373. The trip takes about 30m, and buses depart from the airport every hour. A one-way ticket costs 1,30 € (about $1.45), and tickets are available for purchase at the vending machines in the arrivals area. If you prefer to take a taxi, expect to pay around 15-20 € (approximately $16-22) to the city center.

How long is the flight to Sardinia?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Sardinia takes 21h 07m, covering a distance of 4935 miles. The most popular route is Los Angeles - Cagliari with an average flight time of 15h 05m.

What is the cheapest flight to Sardinia?

The cheapest ticket to Sardinia from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $482. The most popular route is from Los Angeles to Cagliari and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $803.

What are the most popular destinations in Sardinia?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Cagliari (53% of total searches to Sardinia). The next most popular destinations are Olbia (39%) and Alghero (8%).

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Sardinia

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Sardinia flight deals.
• When searching for your flight to Sardinia, keep in mind that three airports serve the small island. These are the Alghero Airport (AHO), Cagliari Airport (CAG), and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB).
• All flights to Sardinia from the United States require a layover in London or another European city, followed by a nonstop flight to one of the three airports. Cagliari Airport, which serves the south side of the island, is the one with the most flight and airline options.
• The Olbia Airport serves the northeast part of the island and is served by European-based airlines flying from Italy and other destinations in Europe. Those airlines include Alitalia, Air Berlin, Lufthansa, and the low-cost carriers easyJet and Vueling.
• Alghero Airport is the gateway into Sardinia’s northwest and western areas, but it is the airport with fewer options when it comes to airlines available. It’s served by Alitalia and the budget airlines easyJet and Ryanair.
• If you’re planning to fly nonstop to a city in Italy and then take a flight to Sardinia from there, the shortest flight route is the 50m flight from Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO).

Top 5 airlines flying to Sardinia

Like the space, did not like the snack options, there was no power outlet in seats, no entertainment, no flyfi.

Traveling with JetBlue from NYC was convenient as accessing JFK airport was straightforward via the LIRR to the AirTrain. Maneuvering through the terminal was hassle-free, which was a pleasant start to the journey. However, the flight experience itself left much to be desired. The seating arrangement was notably uncomfortable; despite securing a window seat, space felt cramped. This was exacerbated by the middle seat passenger encroaching on my area, which made the flight less enjoyable. Additionally, while the in-flight entertainment system initially seemed like a reprieve, the sound outlet on my seat was inoperable. This issue turned what could have been a manageable three-hour flight into a rather tedious ordeal, as I was unable to use the entertainment system effectively. While JetBlue provided a smooth process in terms of airport logistics, the on-board experience highlighted areas in need of improvement, particularly in terms of comfort and entertainment system maintenance.

The flight crew that we had in our section may have been tired or something. I asked the flight attendant about my son’s screen not working and she spoke down to me like I was stupid. He still had no working screen throughout his flight. The other members had no personality and seemed like they were annoyed when you asked them for something. Definitely took a hit for simple things on my JB experience.

I volunteered to let them put my carry on suitcase in the baggage storage area. But when we landed I was told it was being unloaded IN A DIFFERENT TERMINAL! I had to walk (painful for me) a long way to retrieve my bag and my ride had to move from the waiting area they were in to a totally different one. Not happy.

Over 2 hour delay for a 50-minute flight is unacceptable, especially in normal weather. Very poor communication via app

In-flight staff was very helpful and excellent. However, the flight was delayed by 90 minutes. Also the boarding process should be expedited in case of delayed flights. This will help the passengers trying to make international connections.

They delayed our flight by 45 minutes and then re-updated the departure time back to normal schedule with no notification, email, or app update causing probably 40 people to miss the flight as they left without us.

Kayak sent over to jet blue my account being Mike Callaghan instead of Michael. I have a jet blue account with Michael that was connected

Som delays but overall we almost made it on the original time.

terrible. Because I felt very unwell during the flight. How do they leave a woman alone in the middle of 2 men? an obese man who was falling on top of me.

The pairing of personal Bluetooth headset did not work, provided headset did not work, then the screen locked and therefore no in-flight entertainment was available.

The flight was bumpy. No Breakfast or coffee was served, not even a bottle of water. The food was okay but odd. Rice with peas instead of couscous with some unknown green thing. United Airlines did not tell me that there was VERY LIMITED HANDICAP SERVICE IN NAPLES. De-plane via 20 aluminum steps. Taken to Van. You must walk into the terminal, find luggage, and then walk out to the rental car pickup spot that is 1 block from the terminal.

Crew did their best but the plane configuration is too tight if you're bigger than an average sardine. Controls for the entertainment system didn't all work. The aircraft hadn't been cleaned in awhile.

Charging and entertainment didn't work. The meal was horrible. They only came by with the drink cart one time for the 8 hour flight. They did come by with water a couple times.

We were traveling as a family of 5 and they refused to seat us together. There were entire rows open, and my 13 year old daughter had to sit alone. Ridiculous!

Never happened, because of the first delayed flight I lost the connection and had to wait overnight and take two flights to reach my destination.

Very poor the plane itself was really old, slight smell that couldn’t be named. I didn’t even get a boarding pass UNTIL AFTER clearing security! Even then, they said when I get to my connected flight I’ll get my 2nd boarding pass there! A bit ridiculous!

The plane was delayed ~ 40 minutes. Communication could have been better. The entertainment was poor. We were not offered headsets by the flight attendants. The arm rest pad did not work properly, thus, I could not select what I wanted to watch.

Flight was delayed due to weather and clogged toilet. Had to deplane. Flight was 3 hours delayed. Crew was awesome and offered water and snacks.

The flight was mostly on time, smooth and deplaning was quick. Baggage was really quick at the claim. Comfort was so-so and I paid for economy plus. It was still too crowded and why was a family of 5 scattered all around the plane?

Late and next flight even later. Who leaves at 245 am and arrives at 330 am ? No wifi, 4 hr flight and one bag of pretzels? AA should be ashamed

On time, smooth, luggage was out fast at the end of the flight. About perfect.

Boarding process was good. I was assigned the most rear (non-reclining) seat in both directions, which wasn't great.

Pilots showed up late because they decided to stop and get something to eat instead of going straight to our gate, Forcing an 1 1/2 hour delay, and missed flight. Shame on the pilots.

Newer Aircraft have more amenities, but the JAL flight crew and ground staff are top tier and provided the best customer experience I've ever had on a flight!

No problems on this flight. Entertainment system worked well. On time take off and arrival. Smooth most of the way.

Flight was excellent. The food and service were great and the FA was very cordial and gracious.

There was a serious delay of almost 2 hrs to departure.. it would have been to be told what caused the delay. Apart from the delay, boarding and the flight itself went smoothly.

Fantastic! If it had not been for a check-in agent in Knoxville I may have not gotten my passes on British Airways. I couldn’t check-in online because British Airways had messed us the info on my tickets to London & Inverness. AA’s was great! British Airways was a continuous series of delays and frustrations.

The aircraft was on-time and plane and lavatory was clean.

It would’ve been better if you didn’t cancel my flight and I couldn’t find another flight within 200 miles so I had to go down to Baltimore to get on a flight.

Terrible. Rude flight attendants. Uncomfortable seats. Nickel and dime every service. No in flight entertainment. First and last time to fly spirit.

I liked the airfare price. Seats are not very comfortable. But I would fly again with Spirit for the price.

Time in the air good, but waited on the tarmac on arrival for 35 minutes before access to the gate.

Cancelled my flight and left the airport 30 minutes earlier than time was scheduled for and wouldn’t let me on the plane when i showed up to the gate 25 minutes early

Let put it this way ,” I will do everything in my power NOT to flight with Spirit Airlines again!!!!!!! Thank You

Paid 16 dollars for "streaming" grade WiFi. It cut out 10 minutes after paying for it and wasn't even fast enough to stream 480p video when it was working.

1 and a half hour delay due to a longer than expected maintenance inspection, missed my connecting flight because of it. Spirit customer service at airport told me they can't offer me another flight until the 10th. (2 days later.) I was with my son on leave coming back from visiting family and had to check in from leave the following day. The gate attendants told me I could try calling customer service and they may be able to get me a flight that same night with another airline. I called and talked to a representative on the phone and they said they couldn't do that, only the workers at the actual airport could do that. I turned around and gave the phone to the airport spirit rep and it turned out the woman on the phone was correct and the airport rep just needed a code to use for their system to get me another flight. The woman seemed upset that she had to do something to help me and had the audacity to say "Maybe don't fly when it's so chaotic in the future." Finally I was offered a flight 24 hours later for my son and I and a hotel and meal voucher. It only got worse from here. When I got to the "hotel" it was so disgusting that I knew immediately I couldn't stay there with a child. I looked at reviews and saw it was almost all 1 star reviews. (Dirty, filthy, nasty, ongoing construction, bed bugs etc.) We walked down the road to a Fairfield inn and it was nice so we stayed there for the night, I just paid out of pocket. The meal voucher was one time use, even though it was supposed to be enough for both of us for a 24 hour period. So I paid out of pocket for two more meals for both of us after the meal voucher was used the first night. I tried calling spirit twice more to see if they could get us a reimbursement for the new hotel, both times after talking to a phone rep, they put me on hold to speak to someone higher up the chain, the first call I was on hold for 38 minutes before i eventually gave up. The second was for over 50 minutes on hold. Never was able to speak with anyone. Absolutely a nightmare experience and handled in the worst possible way by every level of customer service we had to deal with. Will never fly spirit again and now I see why so many people speak so poorly of them. I will keep calling until I'm finally able to speak with a management level representative who can hopefully do something to make this better.

Bad seat comfort and junk food for sale at high prices

It got cancelled the night before. there was no compensation. They said it was due to weather but my family flew on southwest and their flight didn’t get cancelled because of weather

Flight was cancelled and was not able to get another flight thru Frontier. Per frontier a refund was issued but I do not see a refund on my Afirm account.

First the gate was a total nightmare-no chairs anywhere! So over crowded and only one bathroom and nightmare of food service - took forever and NOT one place to sit. No inflight entertainment and had to pay 60.00 for a small carry on. I will never fly Frontier again!

Literally everything could have been better. Why are the planes always late?

We did not get to go on this flight because it got canceled 4 hours prior to scheduled time. We received an email that it got canceled and then 10 minutes later we received another email that it got delayed. It was very confusing and the only options they gave us for return flight home were 12 to 22 hours of travel time. That was not an option for us since we were traveling with kids and school started on Monday. We ended up opting for a refund and booking a flight back with Alaska. The flight ended up costing us $1500 and we had to book a hotel for the night. We will never book with frontier again.

25 dollars to get a boarding pass abusive nasty folks at the boarding pass check-in desk flight delayed abusive nasty personnel at gate no one knew what they were doing at boarding a real cluster fbk I took a different flight back frontier socks

Flight was canceled as soon as I got to the airport

I was unable to check-in on your app at home before the trip. I didn't realize that you charged to get a boarding pass from the couter. I stood in a long line to check-in to be told that I needed to get in another line to get a boarding pass and that it would cost me. When I spoke with the lady at the next counter, she couldn't get me into the check-in on my app so she tried several other ways over about 15 minutes while others were waiting in line. Finally she was able to get into the check-in and then it took a while to click through multiple upsale options to get my pass. I thought it should be easy since I has a personal pack and no seat selection. I was traveling alone to attend a family funeral.

I didn't like anything about the flight It was my first time and definitely my last time boarding a frontier flight. Their counter agents need training and they need to learn to communicate regularly and respectfully

Booked two aisle seats and were switched to an aisle and middle. Not happy.

Our flight was cancelled and I spent $800 on a replacement ticket. No refund was awarded other than the cost of my original Frontier ticket. unacceptable...

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Sardinia Revealed

How To Plan a Trip to Sardinia in 14 Steps – An Easy Guide

Angela Corrias

May 27, 2024

Are you wondering how to plan a trip to Sardinia and not sure where to start? I hear you! Trip planning can be overwhelming even for seasoned travelers, and Sardinia is a wonderful destination but often not an easy one.

From crafting an itinerary to deciding where to land and when is the best time to go, my guide will help you remember every step to plan a perfect Sardinia holiday.

Table of Contents

Sardinia trip planner – My step-by-step guide

Decide when to go.

Sardinia is a big summer destination in Italy because of its beautiful beaches. I get it, I also like to discover the coastline, but the island has its own appeal all year round. While in summer you will be spending most of your time on the beach because it’s too hot, in the other seasons, you will be more able to explore the inland, the beautiful Sardinian towns and their traditions and landmarks.

Apart from the weather, you can also research important dates and events, local festivals, holidays, and fairs to decide when to travel to Sardinia.

Check out my full guide to the best time to visit Sardinia

Create your own itinerary

Sardinia is Italy’s second biggest island so it’s hard to visit everything in one trip. I suggest creating an itinerary that includes a bit of everything, from traditional specialties to archaeological sites to enjoying its famous coastline.

Something else that is always very interesting to do in Sardinia is to attend a local festival or food fair ( sagra ). For example, are you going to Sardinia in February ? Then you shouldn’t miss Carnival celebrations such as Oristano’s Sartiglia and Mamoiada’s Mamuthones .

Traveling around Sardinia is quite easy, but so is also getting lost. Directions are not always perfectly marked and sometimes reaching points of interest is not very straightforward. This is why, in my customized Sardinia itineraries I include all the necessary tips for a smooth holiday such as the best roads to take, how to reach all the mentioned places, extra activities in each area, and also what and where to eat.

Decide how long to stay

Whether it’s your first holiday in Sardinia or you have already visited the island, I always suggest staying for at least one week . You are probably not going to find much traffic on the roads, but if you want to explore different places, you are going to spend some time traveling.

Two weeks is probably the best amount of time so that you can have a diverse trip and enjoy different experiences.

Do you want this guide to always be available offline? Check out our step-by-step planner with a few bonuses!

Budget your holiday

When wondering how to plan a trip to Sardinia, setting a budget is one of the first decisions you need to make. Some areas in Sardinia can be quite expensive, especially in the Costa Smeralda from May through October with peaks in July and August. While Costa Smeralda is an extreme example because it’s the most expensive area in Sardinia, in summer, prices rise all over the island’s coastline.

Apart from accommodation, your budgeting for a trip to Sardinia will also include items like food, whether it’s eating out or grocery shopping, transport, admission to landmarks, parking if you have a car, and renting a lounge and shade on the beach.

Check out my cost breakdown of a holiday in Sardinia

Decide where to stay

When booking your accommodation in Sardinia, several factors can impact your choice. Do you prefer a villa on the beachfront or budget accommodation inside the city? Are you going in summer and need to go near the coast or off-season to visit the inland?

Sardinia offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury villas on the Emerald Coast to the eco-resorts to private apartments in the cities’ historic centers. Depending on your budget and travel needs, in Sardinia, there is a solution for every traveler.

If you want an all-inclusive holiday, a 5-star resort or a luxury villa by the beach is your best bet. On the other hand, if you are traveling on a shoestring, renting an apartment or booking a hotel in a smaller village would save you quite a lot. For example, on the western coast in the Oristano province, small towns like Narbolia and Riola offer very affordable accommodation because not right on the beach but with a 5-minute car ride, you are on the coast.

Check out our guide to the best areas to book your hotel in Sardinia

Pick the right airport

Once your itinerary is laid out and you have decided where to start your trip, whether it’s north or south Sardinia , you can choose the best airport for you to land in. The airports in Sardinia are three: Olbia-Costa Smeralda in the northeast, Alghero in the northwest, and Cagliari in the south.

Suppose you are visiting the eastern coast such as the Orosei Gulf and the Ogliastra region, or northern Sardinia such as Santa Teresa di Gallura, La Maddalena Archipelago, and the Strait of Bonifacio. In that case, Olbia airport is the one to choose.

To visit southern Sardinia and also the more central areas such as Oristano province, Sulcis, and Medio Campidano, I suggest landing at the Cagliari-Elmas airport. On the other hand, if you are aiming to explore the northwestern coast such as Bosa, Stintino, La Pelosa Beach, and L’Asinara, you should land in Alghero.

Book your flights

Now it’s time to research and book your flights. You can either check directly the airlines’ websites or travel comparison sites like Skyscanner to compare prices and schedules.

Sardinia is connected to many European capitals and larger cities as well as many Italian regions , so it won’t be difficult to find a flight.

…or ferries

If you are reaching Sardinia from Rome , Genoa, Palermo, Ajaccio, or even Barcelona and Nice, you can opt for the ferry instead of flying.

This is the best way if you are traveling by car and with children so you can carry more luggage, and move around more comfortably. Obviously, this way you won’t need to rent a car once in Sardinia.

Check out my guide to the different ways to get to Sardinia

Make a wise packing list

We all have our favorite items we can’t travel without. However, apart from the essentials such as your smartphone, camera, bags and clothes, in Sardinia, you will find everything you need in your daily life like shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and medicines that can be sold over the counter.

I suggest packing what you know you will need the very first days upon landing and obviously your clothes, shoes, swimwear, and a backpack or sling bag.

Check out my guide to packing for Sardinia in the summer

Do you need a car?

Are you only staying in Cagliari or are you planning to travel around? Are you traveling independently or are you part of a group tour?

To reach smaller towns, many archaeological sites, countryside accommodations like an agriturismo, or even several beaches, driving is your best option. This is why I often recommend renting a car in Sardinia . If you are not confident driving in places you are not familiar with, you can hire a local driver.

Understand public transport

The modes of public transport in Sardinia mainly come down to three: trains, buses, and ferries. You would use the train to reach the larger cities but also small towns. Once you get off the train, however, you are on foot or you need to rely on the ARST company’s local buses that are not frequent and don’t reach all the points of interest.

To reach some of the smaller islands off Sardinia’s coast such as La Maddalena archipelago, L’Asinara, or Carloforte, you will have to take the ferry whether you are by car or using public transportation.

Research local customs

Sardinia is very rich in culture and traditions, and apart from its beaches, delving into the local traditions is what makes a trip there unforgettable. Each town has its own dishes, festivals, costumes and mores, and joining the locals in the celebrations will give you a precious insight into Sardinian life and spirit.

Carry a small glossary/dictionary

In Sardinia, English is seldom spoken, so if you are exploring the island on your own, you will need to be able to speak some Italian. This is especially true if you are in smaller towns, while popular tourist landmarks might have English-speaking staff.

I suggest carrying a small dictionary or using a language app

Check out our handy guides to learn some basic Italian useful when traveling.

Stay connected

Staying connected online is helpful on many occasions such as finding your way when driving, booking hotels last minute, or finding a restaurant’s phone number.

Most hotels provide a WiFi connection and when you are outside, if your provider has expensive roaming fees, you can think of purchasing an Italian SIM card or an e-SIM data and calling plan such as Airhub .

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How To Get To Sardinia

Table of Contents

The Best Ways To Get To Sardinia

Find out how to get to Sardinia from mainland Europe and other countries. Should you fly to Sardinia or take the ferry? See the different ferry options and departure times from Italy, Barcelona, and France.

There are two main ways to get to Sardinia by Air or by Sea. Flying is by far the quickest way to reach the island, and much cheaper when compared to any rail-to-ferry options. 

Travelling by ferry gives you the option of bringing your vehicle with you. Conveniently, most ferries to Sardinia travel through the night, so you can head to sleep in a cabin, and begin your first day in Sardinia after the sun has risen.

Travelling To Sardinia By Air

In recent years the frequency of flights to Sardinia has increased. Sardinia is connected by International airlines to a host of cities across Europe including London, Paris, Barcelona, Stockholm, Madrid, Munich, Frankfurt, Dublin, Brussels, Oslo, Basel, Prague, and Amsterdam.

There are plenty of flights from the Italian mainland and Sicily to Sardinia, which connect all of Italy’s main cities to the three airports of Sardinia . Cities including Rome, Milan, Naples, Bari, Bologna, Turin, Venice, Verona, and Parma.

During the summer period, there is an increase in flights as many Italians and tourists alike arrive on the island to enjoy their holidays.

Each airport is not far from their respective city centre, and can easily be reached by taxi, as well as by public transport. Alghero Airport has a bus service travelling to the city centre that runs in sync with the arriving flights. During the summer a coach connects Oblia Airport to a number of towns along the Costa Smeralda.

Getting To Sardinia From The United Kingdom

Flights From The UK

EasyJet flies from London Gatwick to Olbia all year round. During the summer they also fly from Luton , Manchester and Bristol.  British Airway s and AirItaly fly from London Gatwick between April and October.

Ryanair flies from London Gatwick to Cagliari, all year round. EasyJet flies from London Stansted to Cagliari, all year round. British Airways flies from London Gatwick to Cagliari between April and October.

Ryanair flies from London Stansted to Alghero between April and October. Thomson Airways flies from London Gatwick and Manchester between May and October.

Getting To Sardinia From North America

There are no direct flights from North America to Sardinia ; the best option is to fly to Rome, Milan, or a major European hub like London or Paris. Alitalia, Delta, and American Airlines connect Rome and Milan to several American cities, including New York, Boston, Maimi, LA, and Chicago.

From the East Coast, you can anticipate a journey time of 10 hours to the mainland, then another couple of hours to reach Sardinia, depending on the transfer time.

From Canada, there is a daily connection from Toronto to Rome by Alitalia. Also, AirCanada flies from Toronto and Montreal to Rome and Milan.

Getting To Sardinia From Australia And New Zealand

There are no direct flights from Australia or New Zealand into Italy. The quickest and cheapest option may be to transfer to Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing or a middle eastern airport hub, to fly to Rome or Milan, or to change again for a regional flight to Sardinia.

Sardinia Has Three Airports, Which One Is Best For Arriving In Sardinia?

Sardinia has three main airports that serve the island with domestic and international flights​, Cagliari Elmas Airport , Aeroport di Olbia Costa Smeralda & Alghero Airport.

​Cagliari Elmas Airport

Cagliari Elmas Airport is the main international gateway to Sardinia , it is connected to most major European destinations . The airport handles 3 million passengers a year. It s erves the south of Sardinia and tourist destinations such as Carloforte, Iglèsias, The Costa Verde, Carbonia and Pula.

Getting to the city from Cagliari Airport

The quickest way to reach the city centre is to take the train . It takes 5-7 minutes to reach the city centre. A one-way ticket is €1.30, which can be purchased in the arrival hall and at the station, as well as from online ticket merchants. The trains operate from 5 am to 9 pm and one train departs for the city every 20 minutes.

Alternatively, there are taxis . It takes 10-15 minutes to drive into the city centre of Cagliari and the taxi fare is between €15-20.

There is also a bus service to the city centre . The first bus leaves from the airport at 8:40 am and the last bus leaves at 23:30 pm. A single one-way ticket costs €0.67, which you must have before boarding the bus, it can be purchased from the airport terminal or from newsstands. The bus stop is outside the terminal building and can be located by a black and white ARST sign. The bus station in Cagliari is at Piazza Matteotti.

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport

The Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport links 14 countries to the Island. It’s a great entry point to explore the north of Sardinia , the Costa Smeralda and tourist destinations such as Budoni, Golfo Aranci, La Maddalena, Palau, and Santa Teresa di Gallura.

Getting to the town from Olbia Airport

A bus is the best way to reach the city of Olbia. The journey takes 10 minutes; you can buy your tickets on the bus for €1.50 or €1 at the information desk inside the terminal. Bus services numbers 2 & 10 depart to the town every 10-30 minutes. Taxis into the town charge about €15.

Alghero-Fertilia Airport

This Airport is 8km northwest of Alghero, named after the village of Fertilia nearby. It is a small airport that is a gateway to the northwest regions of Sardinia . It is near to Castelsardo, Sassari, Stintino, Bosa, S’Archittu and Porto Torres.

Getting to the town from Alghero Airport

Taking the bus is the best way to reach the city of Alghero. The journey takes 30 minutes. The bus departs o nce every hour from 5 am to 10:30 pm. You can purchase tickets from one of the machines located in the terminal for €1 or when boarding the bu s for €1.50. Taxis into the town centre of Alghero cost €20-25

Flying To Sardinia On A Budget 

Many budget airlines connect European cities to Sardinia, airlines such as EasyJet , RyanAir , and WizzAir . The most economical flights are from Berlin, London, Bratislava, and Barcelona.

I recommend that you search for flights using comparison websites such as Skyscanner or Omio for discounted scheduled flights. Summer is the most expensive time to travel to Sardinia, due to high demand, it is also essential to book in advance during these months to ensure a ticket. The Easter holidays & the Christmas period also see an influx in demand and therefore cost. In the low season, you can find some extraordinarily cheap flights from Europe. Flights are much more infrequent during the off-season.

Getting To Sardinia By Ferry

Numerous ferry routes connect Sardinia to the Italian mainland, Sicily, France, and Spain . The crossing can take up to 16 hours if you are travelling from Naples to Cagliari, for instance. There are some faster, but more expensive ferries able to half the journey time.

During the summer months, the ferries will become crowded as everyone makes their way across to Sardinia.

Sardinia has five ports, Porto Torres , Olbia , Cagliari , Arbatax , and Golfo Aranci.

Taking The Ferry To Sardinia – From The Italian Mainland

Grimaldi lines, tirrenia ferries, grandi navi veloci (gnv), corsica ferries sardinia ferries, getting to sardinia by ferry from france and spain, la méridionale.

Travelling To Sardinia From The UK With A Car

The simplest way to reach Sardinia with a car from the UK is to drive through France, and take the ferry from Marseille. The ferry takes between 11-17 hours, depending on whether it stops at Corsica on the way.

However, the route through France is packed with toll roads. So many opt for a more scenic route travelling through Switzerland before taking a ferry from Genoa, Livorno, or Civitavecchia.

It is also possible to take a short ferry to Corsica, then drive down through the island before hopping across to reach Sardinia. 

If you are able, I recommend splitting the journey from the UK into stages, visiting some of the most beautiful parts of Europe on the way. A short stay in Switzerland or Northern Italy before heading down to a port. It helps remove the stress of trying to make it to the port in time for your ferry.

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How to Get from Rome to Sardinia

Written by: Kate Zusmann

Sardinia (Sardegna) is a famous Italian island located 354 kilometers from Rome in the Mediterranean Sea. The air distance is equal to 220 miles. The best way to get from Rome to Sardinia is by plane. First, you can fly into the island’s capital, Cagliari. The second option which takes more time is the ferry. Four ferry routes operate between Rome and Sardinia, with over 40 sailings per week. Overall, the journey from Rome to Sardinia will take from 1 to 14 hours.

Sardinia is around 162 miles long and lies 116 miles from mainland Italy

Interestingly, the local native language is Sardo, closer to Latin than Italian, with Arabic, Catalan, Spanish, and Arabic elements. Even though Sicily is more significant, Sardinia is the next biggest island in the Mediterranean sea.

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Here’s the list of options on how to get from Rome to Sardinia:

Regarding 4 ferry routes existing between Rome and Sardinia, Grimaldi Lines operates 2 routes. Other options are from Civitavecchia port to Olbia, which operates 7 times per week, and from Civitavecchia to Porto Torres, which runs about 4 times per week.

Also, Tirrenia operates 3 routes, ferry from Civitavecchia to Olbia runs 3 times per day, from Civitavecchia to Arbatax runs 2 times weekly Civitavecchia to Cagliari about 7 times per week. If you wonder how to choose the best option, search for crossings from Rome to Sardinia to find the most up-to-date information.

You can get from Rome to Civitavecchia port by booking one of the best private transfers with our close friend and best driver Sergio

Some examples of rides by ferry with prices are:

• Civitavecchia – Cagliari with Tirrenia Ferries price for a one-way ticket for 2 people in a double cabin with no vehicle is 140 euros. The journey takes about 9 hours during the nighttime.
• Civitavecchia – Olbia with SNAV price for a one-way ticket for two people in a double (external) cabin with a small vehicle is 180 euros. The journey takes about 8 hours

You can buy ferry tickets on:

• www.directferries.com

You can arrive by ferry to one of these cities in Sardinia:

• Golfo Aranci
• Porto Torres
• Arbatax Tortolì

Read also articles “How to Get from Rome to Tuscany” and “ Which Rome Airport is Closest to Cruise Port? “.

Many budget airlines offer cheap flights to Sardinia. Some of them are EasyJet , Meridiana Fly , and Ryanair . More prominent airlines like Alitalia also provide tickets for a higher price, and it takes about 40 minutes to reach the island by air.

For example:

• Rome Fiumicino Airport – Olbia  – Meridiana Fly; one-way flights start from €70; flight time is about 50 minutes

Another option is to fly from Rome Ciampino Airport by Ryanair airlines. The flights to Sardinia are available from mid-January until the end of October. Usually, there are two daily flights: one in the early morning and one late in the evening—the same works with the return flight from Cagliari to Rome.

Prices for tickets become higher in July and August due to the peak season in the island

Sardinia Airports

There are five airports on Sardinia island. The first three airports have international connections, and the smaller two are regional airports with local Italian flights.

• These airports are:
• Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) is the main airport in Sardinia
• Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) is hub airport for Meridiana Fly, located close to Costa Smeralda
• Alghero Fertilia Airport (AHO) is in the northwest part of Sardinia
• Tortoli-Arbatax (TTB) is a small regional airport, which works mainly during the high season
• Oristano Fenosu Airport (FNU) is another small regional airport

Yes, there is the possibility of getting to Sardinia from Rome by car. Even though  this option is not the most convenient, you can catch the car ferry from Civitavecchia , about 50 miles from Rome. Then, you will drive off at Olbia on Sardinia’s eastern coast. The trip will take 7 hours. However, if you want to travel by ferry from Civitavecchia to Cagliari, the journey will take 14 hours.

You can rent a car in Rome with  rentalcars.com

Read tips about renting a car in Rome airports .

Things to Do

• Visit Nuraghi – stone dwellings from the bronze age. People believe that previously they were used as religious temples or military strongholds.
• Enjoy the clear blue water of Sardinian beaches !
• Admire wild animals: there are unique deer and foxes that live in the woods and mountains. Also, you will meet different birds, including Flamingo.
• Visit Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Di La Maddalena, which is a national park in the North of Sardinia. This archipelago can only be reached by boat, and you will find amazing nature and impressive views there.
• Enjoy views on Cagliari from the top of Bastione San Remy, the Romanesque Cathedral of Cagliari.
• Explore the castles and archaeological sites of the island
• Travel to one of the nearby islands
• Attend one of the local festivals. Any week there is a new festival from traditional religious honor of local saints to music or wine and food festivals. The most popular one is Sant’Efisio, which has existed for over 400 years and is celebrated on the 1st of May. There are many representatives of the villages of Sardinia, walking about 50 km from Cagliari to Pula in traditional clothes to celebrate Sant’Efisio, who is a saint patron of the island.
• Try one of the water sports! One of the most popular things to do in Sardinia is surfing. Also, you can try to windsurf and kitesurf
• Try local food specialties such as fregola con le arselle, which is couscous with tomato and clams sauce, or bottarga, and a fish roe sometimes sprinkled on pasta and other dishes. Also, there are culurgiones – the local version of ravioli and malloreddus – a small gnocchi pasta traditionally cooked with sausage and tomato sauce.

Where to Stay

There are many different places to stay for any budget. You can choose between a bed and breakfast and small hotels or book a 4-5 stars hotel.

Faro Capo Spartivento

Faro Capo Spartivento is a 5 stars hotel in Chia, Sardinia. There are two outdoor pools, a restaurant, and an underground cinema. Moreover, in the daytime, a free shuttle service to the beach is offered by the hotel. It is one of the top-rated locations in Chia.

• Prices per night for a room for two people start from 400 euros.

Also, I recommend you read the article about the Best 4-star Hotels in Sardinia With a Private Beach .

Cervo Hotel Costa Smeralda Resort

Cervo Hotel Costa Smeralda Resort is set in Porto Cervo, the main town along Sardinia’s famous Emerald Coast. The hotel offers panoramic views across the bay. Moreover, it features its own private beach and wellness center. All rooms are spacious, modern, and bright.

• Prices per night for a room for two people start from 140 euro

Kkult Boutique Hotel

Kkult Boutique Hotel is located in Olbia and is a four stars hotel with modern and spacious rooms. Moreover, all rooms contain a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. In addition, the hotel offers a hot hub.

• Prices per night for a room for two people start from 70 euro

La Puppusedda

La Puppusedda property features a terrace with garden views. This vacation home is top-rated and located in San Teodoro. It consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom. Moreover, guests can relax in the garden of the property.

• Prices per night for a room for two people start from 40 euro

Il Salice Bed and Breakfast

Il Salice b&b  has a restaurant and a terrace. Moreover, it provides an ATM and free WiFi. You can enjoy continental and buffet breakfast daily. The area of Olbia is famous for cycling. Bike and car rental are available at the accommodation.

• Prices per night for a room for two people start from 40 euro.

Author: Kate Zusmann

I have lived in the Eternal City for the past 12 years. They say every angle of Rome has its history, and I'm here to tell you about the most intriguing historical facts and city legends. :)

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Sardinia   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Sardinia

Sardinia, a 9,301-square-mile island situated in the Mediterranean Sea, just west of the Italian mainland, lures travelers with its unique blend of ancient culture and arresting coastal views. In his travel book "Sea and Sardinia," D.H. Lawrence wrote that "Sardinia is different." And it's true. Not only can you lounge on a white beach or wade out into clear, turquoise waters, but you can enjoy a leisurely pranzo (lunch) complete with Sardinia's own take on pasta and wine. Yes, you can snorkel among colorful fish in nearby coves, but you can also explore inland Sardinia's traditional villages and see shepherds tending to their flocks. The drive along the island's northern  Emerald Coast would convince you that Sardinia is characterized solely by glamorous hotels and ristorantes , and utterly perfect beaches, but you'd be wrong. It's also home to humble farms, forested mountains, and friendly but reserved locals… it's as Lawrence penned, different.  

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• # 3 in Capo Testa

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Sardinia Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Sardinia is from April to June when the flowers are in bloom, the sea waters are warm, and the temperatures haven't yet reached their July and August highs. Still, summertime in Sardinia has its perks: For instance, the Tyrrhenian Sea (east of the island) and the Mediterranean Sea waters are incredibly refreshing this time of year, and a vibrant lineup of festivals and events fill the calendar. September and October offer travelers mild weather and fewer crowds, while the months between November and March constitute low season with chilly temperatures and fewer tourists. 

Weather in Sardinia

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Buy genuine handicrafts When shopping, look for baskets, ceramics, jewelry, rugs, linen napkins and more that sport the ISOLA tags since that certifies it as a bona fide, Sardinian-made ware.
• Stick to one region At 9,301 square miles, Sardinia is likely too large to explore in one trip, so pick one region and enjoy the attractions and restaurants there to make the most of your time.
• Book accommodations early Make sure to book your accommodations several months in advance of your trip since the availability of rooms, especially during peak season (July to August), can be limited.

How to Save Money in Sardinia

• Rent a smaller car You'll not only save money on fuel, but you'll also be able to easily navigate Sardinia's narrow alleys and tight parking spots.
• Limit the dining out Purchasing most of your food at grocery stores or local markets rather than spending your euros at trattorias will stretch your travel funds a bit further.
• Travel in low season Although winter will be too chilly to swim, you can enjoy the food and attractions without the crowds, and your accommodations will be priced much lower.

Culture & Customs

The culture in Sardinia is similar to that of other Italian destinations: Sardinians have a deep fidelity to friends and family, they value traditions and good food, and they take a laid-back approach to life. And although beaches ring their island, many locals have grown up far from the tourist bustle – in the small villages that lie inland where traditional values reign and shepherding is the main industry. 

Sardinia is also heavily influenced by the Catholic church. Festivals (" festas ") that celebrate Catholic saints punctuate the Sardinian calendar, and attending Mass is still a weekly event for many locals. 

Along with speaking a Sardinian dialect, locals also speak Italian. Those working in the tourist trade likely speak some English as well, but it helps if tourists know a few basic phrases, such as "hello," buongiorno ; "goodbye," arrivederci , "please," per favore ; "thank you," grazie ; "yes," si . Sardinia's official currency is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go.

What to Eat

Like other Italian destinations, Sardinia is serious about good food. Coffee is an art here, but ordering un caffe will get travelers a small shot of espresso rather than the big mug they might be accustomed to. A doppio espresso is a double shot of espresso. Visitors will likely be familiar with Sardinia's other types of coffee. For instance, an americano is an espresso with hot water, and its roster of milky coffees include lattes , cappuccinos and macchiatos .

Sardinia also has its own local vineyards, which produce Sardinian wines, such as vermentino whites, cannonau reds and vernaccia whites and fortified wines. Visitors can try these and other Sardinian wines at enotecas or wine bars around the island, or they can plan a visit to the wineries or wine cellars for tastings. Some of the favorites include Sella e Mosca , Antichi Poderi di Jerzu and Tenute Olbios , among others. 

The island also has its own specialty breads, pastas, cheese, meat, fish and seafood dishes, and sweets. For instance, visitors should stop by a panetteria (bakery) and pick up a loaf of civraxiu , a round loaf with a crispy crust and soft center. The hard, tangy pecorino cheese is a Sardinian specialty, as are creamy goat cheeses, such as ircano and caprino . The island's many different pastas include a saffron-flavored malloreddus and a ravioli-type pasta stuffed with pecorino or ricotta, called culurgiones . 

Lobster, tuna and octopus all feature heavily on Sardinian menus, as do suckling pig, lamb and goat. Sardinian sweets, meanwhile, vary by region. For instance, different parts of the island add ingredients, such as cinnamon, mulled wine, vanilla or orange blossom, to the traditional papassino , a dessert made with raisins.

Getting Around Sardinia

The best way to get around Sardinia is by car. It's the easiest way to hit the places on your itinerary, though it's not the cheapest option. Using public transportation will save you some cash, but the trains and buses aren't the most reliable or efficient ways of traveling around the island. And the only way to reach some islands like La Maddalena , for instance, is by hopping aboard a ferry.

To get to Sardinia, most travelers fly from Italian or European cities into one of Sardinia's three main airports, located on the outskirts of Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero. A variety of domestic flights transport visitors between the mainland's airports, including Rome , Milan , Naples , Bari, Bologna, Turin, Venice and Verona. If you'd rather take the ferry, there are several routes available from cities like Naples, Palermo, Genoa, Livorno and Civitavecchia (outside of Rome). There are also ferries from mainland France and Spain to Sardinia, but these sailings can take as long as 12 hours. Grandi Navi Veloci , Moby Lines and Tirrenia are the three principal ferry operators offering regular service between mainland Italy and Sardinia. There are multiple arrival ports in Sardinia, including in the north, along the east coast and in the south.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport that is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date is required for United States citizens traveling outside the mainland by air or sea, as well as for U.S. citizens trying to re-enter the country. U.S. citizens do not need a visa unless they plan on staying longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for more information on exit and entry requirements.

Sardinia's 1,000-plus miles of coastline are characterized by rock formations and transparent blue waters.

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The Perfect One Week in Sardinia Itinerary

Last Updated on 25th July 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

In this one-week Sardinia itinerary , we will be focusing on the southern coast of the island, checking out the best shores, the capital of Cagliari, and some of the traditional villages where time seems to have stopped forever.

One of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean, and indeed one of the largest islands in Europe , there is a lot to see and do in Sardinia.

One of the most popular Italian destinations in summer, there are dozens of towns, amazing beaches, and incredible traditions to discover… and sometimes, one week in Sardinia might not seem enough to see it all.

Basic Things to Know About Sardinia

Where is sardinia, how to get to sardinia, moving around, tips to spend a week in sardinia, days 1-2 in sardinia: cagliari, day 3-4 in sardinia: villasimius, day 4-7 in sardinia: costa rei and back to cagliari.

Italy’s most popular summer destination, Sardinia, is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily (which is also Italian).

Sardinia is an important autonomous region best known for its bilingual identity, with a unique autochthonous language, Algherese Catalan, one of the twelve different linguistic minorities scattered around the country, some of them also found in Sardinia 

The island is also known for its national parks and reserves and a varied ecosystem that includes not just impressive sandy shores, but also mountains, plains, woods, and extensive uninhabited territories.

The island is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, close to the coast of the Toscana region and the French island of Corsica which is separated from Sardinia by the Strait of Bonifacio.

The best and most practical way to get to Sardinia is from Italy. Most people get to Sardinia by ferry from the ports of Genoa , Naples, and Rome and so a visit here can be combined with a trip to one of Italy’s most famous cities.

There are also regular commercial flights to the island landing in any of the three airports on the island: Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero. There are also dozens of seasonal charter flights during the high season from many different Italian towns.

Although flying is faster and cheaper than boarding a ferry (oftentimes overnight), a boat will give you the possibility to board with your own vehicle, which you will soon learn, offers incredible autonomy and flexibility to move around such a big island. 

Keep in mind, for instance, that one of the most popular ferry routes (departing from Civitavecchia in Rome) takes about 14 hours while the flight Rome-Sardinia takes about an hour. 

If you’re traveling from France and want to embark your vehicle, you can take the ferry from Marseille. The journey Marseille-Sardinia can take from 11 to 17 hours. Make sure to book in advance as the popularity of the island means that prices are very elevated in the high season and so it’s best to book well in advance.

Given the impressive distances you need to travel to see the most important landmarks, but also cities, natural reserves, and beaches, the best way to discover Sardinia is to rent a car.  Check car rental prices here.

For you to get a better idea regarding distances, keep in mind that it takes about 3 hours to get from Cagliari (in the south) to Olbia (in the north), or about 2.5 hours from Cagliari to Alghero, on the western coast of Sardinia. By bus, the travel time can even double, especially in the high season.

This gives you enough flexibility to plan a smart itinerary according to the available time you have to spend on the island.

There are also buses and (very few) connecting the main towns on the island, however, schedules aren’t always practical nor are the services punctual. Generally speaking, the service is not really efficient and it will make you waste lots of precious time changing from one bus to the other in some remote bus station. 

On the other hand, if driving is not in your plans, you can still see quite a lot of Sardinia by joining different organized tours with pick-up or transfer services. This is another way to get efficient transport to see the best of Sardinia without getting behind the wheel.

As we have already mentioned above, the island is huge, so if you fantasize about seeing most of Sardinia in one week, then forget it. In general, driving times are incredibly long, which means you will be spending most of your time on the road instead of enjoying the best of the island.

This time, we have decided to explore the amazing south of the island, which will also give you the chance to check out the most important city and capital of the island. 

We did not just choose this itinerary because of the amazing beaches you can enjoy, but also because most international flights land in Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital. So if you’re not traveling from Italy, chances are that Cagliari will be your starting point for a Sardinia vacation.

Besides, staying in or near Cagliari offers more access to transport, organized excursions, boat trips, and a good highway network to reach other areas of Sardinia as well.

Finally, the best thing you can do is to keep your itinerary flexible and enjoy every stop along the way. Take enough time to see one or two sites at a time and do not pack a lot in a day. 

You won’t enjoy all the magic natural places that the island has to offer, you’ll be stressed out, and miss a lot of the fun that has made Sardinia the number one holiday spot among Italians. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our top Italy travel tips .

One Week in Sardinia – The South Coast: Cagliari, Costa Rei and Villasimius

A perfect itinerary if you land at the airport of Cagliari, moving around this trip includes stops in interesting places along the southeastern coast of the island. 

This part of Sardinia is perfect for those who cannot spend long hours far from crystal clear beaches, but who also have a passion for water sports and close contact with nature.

This itinerary is ideal for those looking to spend long hours relaxing by the sea, but that will also enjoy some nightlife activities, interesting villages, and plenty of cultural experiences.

The itinerary includes three main stops, the capital of the island, Cagliari, as well as the gorgeous seaside resorts of Villasimius and Costa Rei.

For those looking to see more, there are day trips included, such as a visit to Pula or the spectacular Chia Beach on the southern tip of Sardinia.

There is a lot to see in the capital of the island. Devote the first day in Cagliari to adapt to the unique rhythm of the city, somewhat calmer and more laid-back than in mainland Italy. It is a great idea to start by exploring San Benedetto Market, which is open in the mornings (until 2 pm).

This is the city’s biggest food market as well as the most amazing display of Sardinia’s traditional cuisine. Don’t be mistaken, if you thought you knew everything about Italian food , think it over. 

Due to the hundreds of years of isolation and the long distance that separates Sardinia from mainland Italy, the local gastronomy is completely different and it almost does not resemble what you could eat in the rest of the country.

No place is better than the market to taste Sardinia’s remarkable cheeses and cold cuts, original bread specialties, unusual pasta, and unexpected sweets.

If you like fish and seafood, the market won’t disappoint either. In fact, there is a whole floor devoted to seafood!

Next up, head to the Castello District, the oldest of the historic districts in the city, hosting some of the most important landmarks in the capital, such as the Cathedral of Cagliari, and the Bastion of Saint Remy.

This beautiful quarter is on top of a hill where, in the past, the nobles and wealthy inhabitants of Sardinia would build impressive mansions and other buildings.

Among the inhabitants of the district, there were also Spanish and Pisans. The latter fortified the area and used it as the headquarters for their naval forces. 

The district features narrow alleys, mostly pedestrian, dozens of quaint cafés and traditional restaurants, but also amazing observing points over the sea and the pristine coast, scattered along the ramparts of the district. 

When exploring the Castello district, you can also check out The Elephant Tower and San Pancrazio Tower, built by the Pisans in the fourteenth century and open to the public. Also in the same area, you can visit the Cagliari Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Royal Palace.

Finally, in the northern part of the district, there is an interesting Roman Amphitheatre and a unique Botanical Garden that, with its over 2000 plant species is a perfect example of Sardinia’s natural diversity and incredible ecosystem.

End the day heading to the Saint Remy Bastion which connects the upper and lower parts of the city and is one of the most characteristic symbols of the town.

To learn more and see the best of Cagliari, it is a good idea to join a walking tour of the old town hosted by a local like this one .

On your second day in Cagliari, why not venture beyond the boundaries of the city to learn more about the history of the island? Sardinia is home to some of the most incredible archaeological sites in the country, featuring an intriguing characteristic monument, the nuraghe. 

These fortress-type constructions were built by the ancient inhabitants of the island back in 1800 BC, approximately. 

There are more than 7000 nuraghes in Sardinia, often with surrounding fortifications and villages. These are the only tangible testimony of the ancient Sardinian civilization, also known as Nuragic, as there are no written records of this civilization.

About an hour from Cagliari, the nuraghe Su Nuraxi is the largest and most famous nuraghe of Sardinia and is the only nuraghe listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It features clear walls and fortifications and it is also the only nuraghe that has been fully excavated, around the area, there is also an interesting Nuragic village with rests of about 50 small houses. 

For better organisation and to learn even more about this mysterious place, check out this organised activity that explores this Bronze Age defence system.

Devote the afternoon to visiting one of the nicest beaches in the area, the impressive Poetto Beach. Over here, you can spend a fantastic time swimming and admiring the incredible color of the sea. This is one of the closest beaches to the city as well as a popular getaway for locals and visitors alike.

Known as one of the longest beaches on the island, the coastal resort extends for over 7 kilometers. The place is well organized, featuring exclusive beach clubs, restaurants, bars, and a variety of water sports facilities.

You can get there by car (about 20 minutes from the centre) or you can also take the bus from the main Matteotti Square.

One of the most incredible villages and beaches on the southern coast of Sardinia, Villasimius offers both relaxation and tranquillity but also some of the most incredible landscapes on the island.

Even if we decided to devote two days to the region, chances are that you won’t want to leave! Known as the pearl of the south, this incredible coastal portion of Sardinia features beautiful glimmering crystal-clear water with pleasantly warm temperatures. 

All around the area, unique clear granite cliffs, and coves, but also unexpected lagoons and lush hills.

Among the gems you can enjoy in the Villasimius region, start by heading to the promontory of Capo Carbonara promontory which is home to a protected marine area with incredible panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

Other beaches to explore during your two days in this village include Porto Sa Ruxi, Campus , Campulongu, and Riso Beach. Riso in Italian means rice and the name perfectly described the unusual rice-shaped sand that has made the place truly famous.

In the late evenings, you can enjoy a walk along the tourist harbor and have fun going shopping for souvenirs in the commercial area of the village. You can also dine delicious dishes of seafood served on the waterfront until late in the evening.

On your second day in Villasimius, it is a good idea to spend some time checking out the western side of Capo Carbonara, here you will discover the incredible beach of Cala Caterina and the marshes of Stagno di Notteri, known for the incredible number of pink flamingos that live in the area.

Over here, you can also admire (or even visit), the famous islands of Serpentara and Cavoli, both known for several shipwrecks as well as impressive underwater life that you can explore scuba diving.

If you’re still fascinated about the past of the island, there are several archaeological ruins from the Nuragic age that you can visit, such as the Accu Is Traias necropolis as well as the Roman Baths of Santa Maria. 

In Villasimius, there is also an interesting archaeological museum, with interesting displays related to the shipwrecks that took place in the area over the centuries.

If you prefer to devote more time to Cagliari and only want to see the highlights of Villasimius, you can check out this Villasimius beaches day trip that also includes transportation and a short visit to Costa Rei.

Spend your last days in Sardinia enjoying Costa Rei, one of the most enchanting areas of the island. Over here, you can explore the Sarrabus a natural park and reserve with the impressive backdrop of the Sette Fratelli mountain range.

A favorite destination among hikers and fans of walks in nature, the region includes lush hills, an impressive deep blue coast, and amazing dunes.

Different beaches or, as locals call them, calas , are some of the most impressive spots you can discover in Costa Rei. One of the most impressive ones, Cala Pira, is a beautiful, although fairly small bay with crystal seas surrounded by dunes and juniper trees. 

Not far, Cala Sinzias is a protected shore surrounded by a thick pine forest, standing sandwiched between two small cliffs that give the area a private atmosphere, despite being quite close to the town of Costa Rei.

The little town is a very lively coastal resort bordered by a magnificent stretch of fine white sand in clear contrast with the deep emerald green of the sea in the area. 

The sandy beach, which is about 10 kilometers long features shallow, safe waters, and all the organized services you need, including good restaurants, and bars, but also hotels, entertainment, and shopping opportunities

On your second day in Costa Reis, you can drive to Muravera, another interesting coastal resort that hosts interesting activities and events devoted to the promotion of Sardinia’s most unique traditions and culture, the area is also known for a variety of gastronomic festivals that take place not only in summer.

For more information about the traditions of Costa Rei, it is a good idea to visit the Castiadas Penal Colony. Today a cultural center and museum this former prison dates back to 1877. 

The fields surrounding the detention center, which now produce an incredible variety of organic products, were once tilled by semi-free prisoners.

When it is time to go back to Cagliari, it is a great idea to drive from the south to the airport along one of the most impressive scenic routes in Italy. This panoramic road travels north along the coast, passing through gorgeous hills overlooking the magnificent shores of the south of the island.

Day Trips in the Area

If you have extra time during your trip or plan to do alternative things to the ones suggested in this itinerary, check out these interesting day trips that will surely add more color to your Sardinia escape:

Day Trip to Pula

Easy to reach from Cagliari, the small town of Pula is a great destination for water sports, fun entertainment, and, again, great beaches. 

Pula is located about 38 kilometers from the center of Cagliari, there are incredible shores to spend the day swimming or practicing water sports, but also an interesting archaeological site, the Ancient City of Nora which dates from the Punic times but saw its most important development during the Roman era. 

Among the things to discover are the ruins of ancient houses and public buildings, an imposing theater, and diverse thermal complexes.

If you’re visiting Pula for its beaches, they won’t disappoint, the most famous of all is Santa Maria di Pula, a 10-kilometer-long collection of coves surrounded by thick pine forests that offer natural shade and fresher temperatures.

Day Trip to Chia Beach

Turquoise calm waters and clear sand are the most distinctive traits of Chia Beach and they are worth a day trip from Villasimius, Cagliari, or Costa Rei. Also famous for its wildlife, the dozens of dolphins that come to breed on its coast, and a picturesque lagoon with pink flamingos.

Near the main seaside area, you can check out the impressive Campana Dune, another popular beach that features sand dunes over 20 meters high. 

The whole area is popular among water sports fanatics who come to Chia Beach to have fun doing kitesurfing, kayaking, surfing, paddle boating, and snorkelling.

Enjoyed reading about how to spend a week in Sardinia itinerary? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book . She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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Cheap flights to Sardinia

Popular airports near sardinia.

• Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) Cagliari 1 hr 54 min 97 km
• Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) Olbia 1 hr 49 min 96 km
• Alghero Airport (AHO) Alghero 1 hr 53 min 83 km
• Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) Rome 13 hr 49 min 328 km

About Sardinia

Frequently asked questions about flying to sardinia, search more flights, more places to fly.