Where to Stay in Sardinia, Italy: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Sardinia and not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered!

This stunning Italian island is famous for its crystal-clear water and white sand beaches, but it’s actually larger than a lot of people realize! There are several suitable areas to stay in, and when we first visited, we just weren’t sure where to start. But now, after exploring this gorgeous island in depth, we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay. 

Whether you’re a first-timer looking for convenience, a honeymooner seeking a romantic, luxury stay, or somewhere in the middle, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it! 

Where to Stay in Sardinia map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Sardinia

Sardinia is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy, thanks to its bright turquoise water and long stretches of pale sand. But one thing that catches many visitors off guard is just how big the island actually is! The main towns and beach destinations are scattered all around the coastline, and it can take two or three hours to drive between them.

Because of that, renting a car is usually the easiest way to get around. Public transport exists, but it’s not ideal if you want to visit different beaches or explore smaller towns along the coast. Having our own car allowed us to see so much more of the island! 

The towns themselves are generally quite small and don’t take long to explore. Sardinia has a very low-key feel compared to many parts of mainland Italy, and most days revolve around the coast. To see the island, we chose one base and used our rental car to explore nearby beaches from there, but if you have more time, splitting your stay between two parts of the island could also work really well.

• Cagliari – Best for first-time visitors – Cagliari is Sardinia’s lively capital, and it offers historic neighborhoods and easy access to Poetto Beach. Hotel Aristeo is a well-located stay near the waterfront with modern rooms and views over the harbor.

• Costa Smeralda – Best for luxury travelers – Costa Smeralda is Sardinia’s most glamorous stretch of coastline, and you’ll find lots of yachts and stylish beach clubs around here. Hotel Monti Di Mola is a great option close to Porto Cervo with elegant rooms and a peaceful pool area.

• Alghero – Best for a charming & historic stay – Alghero is a picturesque coastal town with a walled historic center and strong Catalan influences. Alma di Alghero Hotel offers a comfortable stay near the beach with bright modern rooms and a rooftop pool.

• Olbia – Best for convenience – Olbia is a practical base thanks to its airport and ferry port, and it’s also a gateway to the beaches of Costa Smeralda. True to its name, Hotel Centrale sits right in the historic center and offers stylish rooms within walking distance of restaurants and cafes.

• Villasimius – Best for beaches – Villasimius is known for its white sand beaches and clear turquoise water, making it one of the best beach destinations in southern Sardinia. We love Suimi’s Hotel because it has a lovely pool and garden area to relax in, and it’s perfectly positioned halfway between the town center and the beach. 

Where to Stay in Sardinia

Cagliari 

BEST FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Great mix of historic sights and local neighborhoods
• Easy access to Poetto Beach and coastal views

Cons

• Quite hilly in the historic districts
• Not as polished as Sardinia’s resort areas

Cagliari is Sardinia’s capital and a great place to stay if it’s your first time visiting the island. It offers a nice balance between city life and coastal scenery, as it’s got both historic neighborhoods and a long stretch of beach just outside the center. It definitely feels more local than the resort towns further north, and it gives you a better sense of everyday Sardinian life. This is where we stayed on our first visit! 

One of the most interesting parts of the city is the Castello district, which sits high above the rest of Cagliari on a hill. The narrow streets wind past old stone buildings and small piazzas, and you’ll find some of the city’s most important landmarks here. We think that the Bastione di Saint Remy is a must-see, with a grand terrace that looks out across the rooftops and toward the sea.

You’ll also come across Cagliari Cathedral in this area, along with several medieval towers that once formed part of the city’s defenses. Then, when you’re ready for some beach time, Poetto Beach is just a short bus ride away. It stretches for several kilometers along the coast and is a popular spot for swimming and evening walks by the water.

La Marina (Marina District)

Palazzo Tirso MGallery Cagliari – $$$

Palazzo Tirso MGallery Cagliari feels like a refined retreat right in the middle of Cagliari’s buzz. Sitting along the waterfront in La Marina, this elegant hotel blends modern luxury with a location that makes exploring the city incredibly easy. Step outside and you’re immediately on Via Roma, with the harbor, shops, and restaurants all within a short walk.

One of the highlights is the rooftop pool and terrace with lovely sea views, an ideal spot to relax after a day of exploring. Rooms are stylish, spacious, and well soundproofed, and the hotel also features a spa, gym, and several dining options, including a breakfast that guests consistently rave about.

Overall, Palazzo Tirso is a fantastic choice if you want a polished, upscale stay without sacrificing location. Prices typically range from €200 to €1,000+ per night, depending on room type and season.

Hotel Aristeo – $$

Hotel Aristeo is a solid mid-range option in La Marina that focuses on comfort, service, and an excellent location rather than flashy extras. It’s a great choice if you want to stay central and walk everywhere, but don’t need full-on luxury to enjoy your time in Cagliari. The hotel sits close to the waterfront and main sights, making it easy to explore the historic center, restaurants, and shops on foot.

Rooms are modern, clean, and well-equipped, with air-conditioning, soundproofing, and some offering lovely sea views. One thing guests consistently rave about is the breakfast, which includes local specialties, fresh pastries, and a wide variety of options to start the day right. For the location, prices are very reasonable, usually between €90 to €240 per night, depending on your room choice.

Arcobaleno Rooms – $

Arcobaleno Rooms is a smart budget pick in La Marina that still delivers charm and a great location. Set in the historic center just a short walk from the harbor, this small guesthouse is ideal for travelers who want to stay central without paying higher hotel prices. It’s especially convenient for short stays or city-focused itineraries.

Rooms are simple but thoughtfully designed, featuring air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and handcrafted Sardinian-style furnishings. Some rooms include balconies, adding a nice extra touch at this price point. 

The building is spread over two floors with no elevator, so expect stairs, but you’re rewarded with an excellent walkable location close to the train station, waterfront, and dining spots. Most rooms are priced around €45 to €115 per night.

Castello

Le Torri – $$$

Le Torri is a fantastic choice if you want to fully lean into Castello’s historic atmosphere while enjoying the comfort of a self-catering apartment. Set right in the heart of the old town, these apartments put you steps from landmarks like Santa Croce Cathedral and within easy wandering distance of Castello’s viewpoints and quiet piazzas. Staying here really feels like living inside history rather than just visiting it.

Apartments are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with full kitchenettes, air conditioning, and small touches such as exposed wooden beams or private balconies. It’s an especially good fit for couples who like having extra space and the flexibility to cook or enjoy slower mornings. 

While you’ll still need to navigate Castello’s stairs and narrow streets, the location more than makes up for it. Prices generally range from €110 to €130 per night. 

Albergo Diffuso Birkin Castello – $$

Albergo Diffuso Birkin Castello is a fun middle-ground option if you want to stay right inside Castello without booking a full apartment. The hotel is spread across historic buildings just steps from the cathedral, which makes the whole experience feel very “old town” in the best way. It’s perfect if you love atmosphere but still want the ease of hotel-style comfort.

Rooms and suites are stylish and comfortable, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies in some rooms. Even though you’re right in the center of Castello, many rooms face quiet streets, so nights are surprisingly peaceful. 

Breakfast is included and well-loved by guests, making it easy to start the day before wandering Castello’s narrow streets and viewpoints. Prices hover around €60 to €190 per night, depending on availability.

Al Duomo di Cagliari – $

Al Duomo di Cagliari is all about location, and it doesn’t get much better than this. Sitting right next to the cathedral, this small guesthouse puts you in the absolute heart of Castello, with major landmarks like Torre dell’Elefante and the National Archaeological Museum just steps away. If you want to roll out of bed and straight into history, this place delivers.

Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, with air conditioning, soundproofing, and private bathrooms. Some rooms even come with views over the surrounding historic streets, which adds to the experience without pushing the price up. 

There’s no luxury fluff here, but everything is well-maintained and thoughtfully set up for a short, city-focused stay. This is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers who care more about location than extras. Rooms typically fall between €75 and €100 per night.

Costa Smeralda

BEST FOR LUXURY TRAVELERS

Pros

• Some of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia
• Home to luxury resorts, marinas, and beach clubs

Cons

• One of the most expensive areas on the island
• You’ll definitely need a car to get around

Costa Smeralda is the most famous stretch of coastline in Sardinia, known for its bright turquoise water and glamorous atmosphere. This is where you’ll find luxury resorts and stylish beach clubs, and the marinas are packed with enormous yachts during the summer months! The area developed its reputation in the 1960s when investors began turning this quiet corner of the island into a high-end holiday destination, and it has blossomed ever since. 

Porto Cervo is the heart of Costa Smeralda and acts as the main hub for restaurants and nightlife. We couldn’t help but be impressed by all of the flashy boats in the marina, and we loved exploring the surrounding streets, which are filled with designer shops and waterfront bars. Even if you’re not staying right in Porto Cervo, it’s worth visiting for a wander around the harbor!

Beyond the glitz and glamor, Costa Smeralda is really all about the beaches. The coastline is dotted with small coves and sheltered bays where the water is incredibly clear. Spiaggia del Principe and Capriccioli are two of the most famous spots, and both are known for their soft sand and calm water.

While the area has a reputation for attracting celebrities and luxury travelers, you don’t need a billionaire’s budget to enjoy it. If you stay just outside Porto Cervo, you can still experience the coastline without paying the highest resort prices.

Cervo Hotel, Costa Smeralda Resort – $$$

Cervo Hotel, Costa Smeralda Resort sits right in the center of Porto Cervo, just steps from the marina and the town’s boutiques and restaurants. The property is part of the larger Costa Smeralda Resort complex, and it has a sophisticated Mediterranean design that fits perfectly with the glamorous atmosphere of the area.

The rooms are spacious and elegant, and guests also have access to a private beach club nearby, along with several restaurants and pools across the resort. If you want to stay right in the heart of Porto Cervo, this is one of the most iconic hotels in the area!

Rooms here typically start at around €520 per night during the summer months.

If Cervo Hotel is fully booked, Hotel delle Rose is another beautiful option located in Porto Cervo, close to the marina and the town’s main attractions. The hotel offers stylish rooms and a gorgeous swimming pool, and it all feels nicely tucked away from the busier streets.

L’Ea Bianca Luxury Resort is also a fantastic alternative located slightly outside Porto Cervo overlooking Cala dei Ginepri beach. The resort offers elegant rooms, panoramic sea views, and a beautiful infinity pool facing the coastline – what more could you want?

Hotel Monti Di Mola – $$

Hotel Monti Di Mola is a fantastic mid-range option located just outside Porto Cervo. The hotel sits in a quiet spot surrounded by Mediterranean gardens, but it’s still only a short drive from the marina and nearby beaches.

The rooms are bright and comfortable, many with small terraces that overlook the pool or garden area. There’s also a lovely outdoor pool with sun loungers where guests can cool off after a day exploring the coast. It’s a great base if you want to experience Costa Smeralda without paying the prices of the larger luxury resorts.

Rooms typically start from around €240 per night during the warmer months.

If Hotel Monti Di Mola is fully booked, Hotel Olimpia is another reputable option located near Porto Cervo with comfortable rooms and a convenient location for exploring the surrounding beaches. The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere and offers great value for this part of Sardinia!

Club Esse Cala Bitta is also worth considering if you prefer a resort-style stay located close to the coast between Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia. The property offers smart, modern rooms and a large pool area, plus easy access to nearby beaches.

Villaggio Camping Golfo di Arzachena – $

Villaggio Camping Golfo di Arzachena is a budget-friendly option located just outside Porto Cervo near the town of Cannigione. The property offers a mix of simple rooms, bungalows, and camping accommodation, so it offers a lot of flexibility for travelers looking to keep costs down.

The setting is surrounded by greenery and sits close to the coastline, so it still feels very much like a seaside escape. There’s also a pool and restaurant on site, which makes it an easy base for exploring Costa Smeralda without stretching your budget too far.

Prices here usually start at around €120 per night.

If Villaggio Camping Golfo di Arzachena is fully booked, Residenza Capriccioli is another affordable option located close to the famous Capriccioli Beach along the Costa Smeralda coastline. The property offers simple apartment-style accommodation surrounded by gardens.

Green Park Hotel is also a good budget-friendly choice located near Porto Cervo with easy access to the surrounding beaches. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a quiet setting that works well if you’re planning to explore the area by car.

Alghero

BEST FOR A CHARMING & HISTORIC STAY

Pros

• Beautiful historic center surrounded by old sea walls
• Easy access to beaches and coastal scenery

Cons

• Further from many of Sardinia’s other major destinations
• The airport has fewer international flights than Cagliari or Olbia

Alghero sits on the northwest coast of Sardinia and is one of the island’s most atmospheric towns. We love the historic center, which is wrapped in thick stone walls that face the sea. Walking through its narrow streets feels very different from the resort areas elsewhere on the island. The town also has strong Catalan roots, which date back to when it was ruled by the Crown of Aragon, and you’ll still see hints of that influence in the architecture and local traditions.

Much of the action takes place inside the old walled town. You’ll find small piazzas and historic churches, and we loved checking out the different restaurants tucked away along the cobbled streets. Mon Bar Bistrot was our favorite spot – it’s charming and old-timey, and not too expensive, either! Then in the evening, we went for a gorgeous sunset walk along the promenade.

One of the most famous natural sights nearby is Neptune’s Grotto, a huge sea cave carved into the cliffs of Capo Caccia. You can reach it by boat from Alghero’s harbor or by descending a long staircase built into the cliffside. There are also several beautiful beaches close to town, including Maria Pia and Lido di San Giovanni, which are both easy to reach by car or bike.

San Francesco Heritage Hotel – $$$

San Francesco Heritage Hotel is one of the most unique places to stay in Alghero’s historic center. The hotel is set inside a former monastery dating back to the 14th century, and many of the original architectural features have been carefully preserved. If you’re looking for a unique stay, I think this place fits the bill nicely! 

The rooms combine historic details with modern comforts, and some overlook the peaceful cloister courtyard at the center of the building. The location is hard to beat as well, since you’ll be staying right inside the old town walls within walking distance of Alghero’s restaurants and harbor.

Rooms here typically start at around €320 per night during the warmer months.

If San Francesco Heritage Hotel is fully booked, Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA is another beautiful option located just outside the historic center overlooking the sea. The hotel offers elegant rooms, private seaside terraces, and a spa with incredible coastal views – bliss.

Hotel Florida is a little less luxurious, but we think it makes a great alternative, since it’s a large and reputable resort located right along Lido di San Giovanni beach. The property offers comfortable rooms and a large pool area just steps from the sand.

Alma di Alghero Hotel – $$

Alma di Alghero Hotel is a modern but reasonably priced hotel right by Lido di San Giovanni beach. It’s also just outside the historic center, which means you can easily walk into town while still being close to the water. It’s the best of both worlds! 

The rooms are bright and modern, and many have balconies overlooking the sea. There’s also a rooftop terrace with a small pool where you can relax while enjoying views across the coastline. It’s a great balance between beach access and easy sightseeing.

Rooms typically start from around €210 per night during the warmer months.

If Alma di Alghero Hotel is fully booked, Residence Buganvillea is another solid option located right near the beach along Alghero’s seafront promenade. The property offers apartment-style accommodation with kitchenettes and balconies, so it’s perfect if you’re thinking about self-catering.

Hotel Catalunya is also worth considering if you prefer to stay closer to the historic center. It’s a super chic hotel that offers spacious rooms and a rooftop restaurant with sweeping views over the harbor.

Alghero Vacanze Hotel – $

Alghero Vacanze Hotel is a good budget-friendly option located just outside the historic center. From here, you can easily walk into the old town as well as reach the nearby beaches.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the location makes it a convenient base for exploring Alghero without spending too much on accommodation. It’s a practical choice if you plan to spend most of your time out discovering the town and coastline.

Prices here usually start at around €120 per night.

If Alghero Vacanze Hotel is fully booked, Residence Picalè is another affordable option located close to Lido di San Giovanni beach. The property offers spacious apartments with balconies overlooking the sea.

Hotel La Margherita & SPA is also a good alternative located near the historic center. The hotel features simple rooms and a lovely spa, plus a rooftop bar offering beautiful coastal views. 

Olbia

BEST FOR CONVENIENCE

Pros

• Home to Sardinia’s main airport and ferry port
• Easy access to Costa Smeralda and nearby beaches
• More affordable

Cons

• Less picturesque than other towns on the island
• More modern in parts than historic

Olbia is one of the most convenient places to stay in Sardinia, especially if you’re flying into the island. The main airport is located just outside the city, and the ferry port connects Sardinia with mainland Italy and several nearby islands. Because of this, many travelers pass through Olbia at some point during their trip – we stayed here on our last night because we had an early flight out.

While it doesn’t have the same postcard-perfect feel as some of Sardinia’s smaller towns, Olbia still has plenty to offer. We like the historic center because it’s compact and easy to explore on foot, with a handful of charming streets filled with cafes and wine bars. It was ideal for a fun but low-key final evening in Sardinia.

Another reason people stay in Olbia is its location near the coast. Several beaches sit just a short drive away, including Pittulongu Beach, which is known for its soft sand, clear water, and stunning scenery. Olbia is also a good choice if you’re keen to explore Costa Smeralda but don’t want to stay in one of the pricey hotels there, since a lot of its famous beaches and towns are less than an hour away by car.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Olbia Sardinia – $$$

Delta Hotels by Marriott Olbia Sardinia is one of the most comfortable upscale stays in the city. The hotel sits just outside the historic center, making it easy to reach the airport while still being close to Olbia’s restaurants and shops.

The rooms are spacious and modern, and many offer views over the city or the surrounding hills. There’s also a large outdoor pool and a wellness area, which is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the coast. It’s a great choice if you want a full-service hotel with plenty of amenities.

Rooms here typically start at around €260 per night during the warmer months.

If Delta Hotels by Marriott Olbia Sardinia is fully booked, La Locanda Del Conte Mameli is an absolutely gorgeous property located right in the historic center near Olbia’s main restaurants and cafes. It offers elegant, boutique rooms inside a beautifully restored historic building, with lovely views to boot.

Tramas Hotel & Spa is a fun, Boho alternative located close to the waterfront and Olbia’s old town streets. The property has an artsy feel and a spa and wellness area with saunas, plunge pools, a heated indoor pool, and a full treatment menu. 

Hotel Centrale – $$

Hotel Centrale is a fantastic mid-range option located right in the heart of Olbia’s historic center. The hotel sits along Corso Umberto, one of the city’s main pedestrian streets, so you’ll be surrounded by shops and restaurants. 

The rooms are bright and comfortable, and many have balconies overlooking the lively street below. Breakfast is included in your stay, and this place is actually really quiet at night despite its central location. If you like to stay centrally and walk everywhere, this place is hard to beat!

Rooms typically start from around €190 per night during the warmer months.

If Hotel Centrale is fully booked, L’Essenza Hotel is another great option located in the historic center within walking distance of Olbia’s main sights. The hotel offers modern rooms and a peaceful courtyard area, plus it offers the best breakfast in town! 

Hotel Terranova is also worth considering if you prefer a simple stay close to the city’s main shopping streets. The hotel features comfortable rooms and homey decor, and it’s located very centrally, so you’ll easily be able to explore Olbia on foot. 

Hotel Cavour – $

Hotel Cavour is a solid budget-friendly option located close to Olbia’s historic center. From here, you can easily walk to the main restaurants and the harbor area.

The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, and the decor feels quintessentially Sardinian. Plus, the location makes it a super convenient base for exploring the city. If you’re looking for somewhere affordable while still being close to the action, we think that this hotel is a great choice!

Prices here usually start at around €120 per night.

If Hotel Cavour is fully booked, Le Residenze del Centro is another affordable option located in the center of Olbia, within walking distance of Corso Umberto. The property offers apartment-style accommodation with kitchenettes and modern interiors.

Hotel De Plam is also a good budget-friendly choice located near the waterfront and the historic center. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Olbia’s main attractions.

Villasimius

BEST FOR BEACHES

Pros

• Some of the best beaches in southern Sardinia
• Clear water and great spots for swimming

Cons

• Further from Sardinia’s main airports
• Small town with limited nightlife

Villasimius sits on the southeastern tip of Sardinia and is one of the best places on the island if your main goal is beach time! This part of the coast is known for its bright turquoise water and long stretches of pale golden sand. In fact, many of the beaches here look like something straight out of a postcard – it may sound cheesy, but I promise you it’s true.

The town itself is fairly small, with just a handful of restaurants, bars, and shops gathered around the main square. We took a day trip here and spent most of our day exploring the coastline, since several of Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches are located just a short drive away.

One of the most famous is Porto Giunco, where a wide sandy beach curves around a lagoon, where we even saw flamingos! Then, Simius Beach sits closer to town and is another popular spot thanks to its shallow water and soft sand. Campulongu Beach is also nearby and tends to be a little quieter than the others, and the whole area forms part of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, which helps keep the coastline clean and the water incredibly clear. 

La Villa Del Re – $$$

La Villa Del Re is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Villasimius. The hotel sits right on the coast overlooking a beautiful stretch of beach, and it feels so peaceful and secluded. 

The rooms are elegant and spacious, with balconies or terraces that look out toward the sea or gardens. There’s also a large infinity pool facing the coastline, along with a private beach area just steps away. If you’re looking for a peaceful seaside stay with excellent service, this is one of the best choices in the area.

Rooms here typically start at around €520 per night during the summer months.

If La Villa Del Re is fully booked, Hotel Cala Caterina is another beautiful option located close to the coast near several quiet beaches. The hotel offers charming Mediterranean-style rooms and a peaceful garden setting just steps away from the sand. 

Almar Timi Ama Villasimius is another fantastic alternative located near Porto Giunco Beach. The resort offers elegant rooms along with a large pool area with gorgeous views and direct access to the nearby beach.

Suimi’s Hotel – $$

Suimi’s Hotel is a stylish option located just outside the center of Villasimius. The hotel sits in a quiet spot surrounded by greenery, and it’s only a short drive from the town and nearby beaches.

The rooms are boho-chic and comfortable with plenty of natural light, and there’s also a lovely outdoor pool with comfortable sun loungers where guests can relax after a day at the beach. It’s a great balance between comfort and value in this part of Sardinia.

Rooms typically start from around €220 per night during the warmer months.

If Suimi’s Hotel is fully booked, Hotel Regina Simius is another great option located within walking distance of the town center and the beach. The hotel offers bright modern rooms with beachy blue-and-white decor and a large outdoor pool.

Green Village Resort is also worth considering if you prefer apartment-style accommodation near Simius Beach. The property features spacious suites along with a sleek pool and a pretty garden area.

Hotel Stella D’Oro – $

Hotel Stella D’Oro offers excellent value for money in the center of Villasimius. From here, you can easily walk to the town’s restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to stay. Plus, it includes a delicious breakfast each morning and free parking. If you’re planning to spend most of your time exploring the beaches around Villasimius, this hotel makes an awesome, wallet-friendly base.

Prices here usually start at around €120 per night.

If Hotel Stella D’Oro is fully booked, Hotel Blu Marlin is another affordable option located close to the center of Villasimius. The hotel offers simple rooms and easy access to the nearby beaches.

Janas Hotel is another, more contemporary alternative located near the town center with comfortable rooms and a quiet setting. It offers free cancellation and the opportunity to include breakfast each morning for extra ease.

Top Activities to do in Sardinia

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite corner of the island to stay in and the best hotel for your travel style, you can plan the rest of your trip! From lazy beach days to ancient sites and charming historic centers, there is plenty to explore in Sardinia. Here are a few of our favorite things we did that are easy to fit into any Sardinia itinerary!

• Visit La Maddalena Archipelago – This boat tour highlights one of the most stunning parts of Sardinia – La Maddalena Archipelago! Spending the day island hopping, swimming in crystal clear waters, and visiting the famous pink sand beach was a day to remember, and made easy by departing from Palau.

• Explore Su Nuraxi – This small-group tour from Cagliari takes you to the archaeological site dating back 3,500 years! Going with an expert guide made this experience much more fulfilling, as we learned tons of history woven into this ancient site.

• Spot dolphins in Golfo Arnaci – If you’re visiting from April to October, this dolphin-spotting cruise is one of the best things to do in Sardinia! This area is home to bottlenose dolphins, so seeing a few is very common. Plus, it’s a fun day out on the water!

• Learn how to cook Culurgiones in Cagliari – We love taking a cooking class in every new place, it’s such a unique way to get to know the area’s culture! Sardinia is famous for culurgiones, which are a dumpling with style, and are harder to prepare than you’d think, but this cooking class showed us the way!

• Kayak around islands – From Olbia, you can enjoy this fun kayak tour around Cala Suaraccia! Explore secluded islands and a protected marine park, stopping to snorkel, swim, and relax.

Related Read: Need help planning the rest of your Italy trip? See our blog on the top things to do in Italy so you can hit the bucket-list items and our personal favorite hidden gems!

Thanks for reading!

We loved visiting Sardinia because it held the same charm and history we love in mainland Italy, but with a more relaxed vibe. The outdoors here are stunning, and no matter where you choose to stay, you’ll find something beautiful! Be sure to book your hotels well in advance, as they will sell out if you wait too long!

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Europe blogs. Whether you’re continuing to explore around Italy or further, we have more resources to help you plan a memorable trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

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