Sardinia holidays: which coast, when to go and how to get around
The Mediterranean's second-largest island has water in colours you thought belonged to the Caribbean, an interior almost free of tourists and a culture older than Rome. Sardinia needs a hire car, and repays it.
This page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, Picolo earns a commission at no extra cost to you. Our picks are made independently by our editors.
Sardinia
Photo: Alexandra Cozmei / Unsplash
Sardinia, an island apart
You leave the car on a gravel lay-by and walk ten minutes down a path through juniper scrub. Then the cove opens up: white sand, smooth granite and water shading from green to deep blue. Few places in Europe have beaches like this, and even in August there is space if you are prepared to walk.
Sardinia lies in the western Mediterranean between Corsica and North Africa and is an autonomous region of Italy. It is big, so choose your base by what you want. For more of the country, see our Italy travel guide.
Which coast suits you?
The north-east: Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena
The island's most famous and most expensive coast, with smart resorts, yachts and the La Maddalena archipelago offshore.
The north-west: Alghero
A walled seaside town with Catalan roots, good restaurants and beaches nearby. Ideal if you want a town and the sea in one trip.
The south: Cagliari and Chia
The capital has an old town on a hill and flamingos in its lagoons, and the coast around Chia has some of the best beaches on the island.
The east: the Gulf of Orosei
Limestone cliffs and coves best reached by boat, and a base for hiking inland.
When to go
May, June and September: warm sea, fewer people and better rates. The sweet spot for most visitors.
July and August: peak season. Italians are on holiday, prices rise and some beaches limit numbers.
Winter: quiet and mild, but many beach hotels close.
Our pick of the coastline is in Sardinia's best beaches.
Good to know
A hire car is close to essential. Public transport outside the towns is thin.
Taking sand or pebbles from some beaches is banned, and fines are possible.
Flights land at Olbia, Alghero and Cagliari, with many seasonal routes from across Europe.
Try pane carasau, a paper-thin crisp flatbread, and pecorino sardo.
Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa
Photo: Hotels.com
Where to stay
Our Sardinia hotel guide covers the best hotels from the Costa Smeralda to the south coast.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa
Frequently asked questions about Sardinia
Where is the best place to stay in Sardinia?
The north-east for luxury and sailing, Alghero for a town with beaches, and the south for great beaches near Cagliari.
What is the best month to visit Sardinia?
June and September give hot weather and a warm sea without the August crowds.
Do you need a car in Sardinia?
Yes, if you want to see more than one beach. Distances are long and buses are infrequent.
Which airport is best for Sardinia?
Olbia for the north-east, Alghero for the north-west and Cagliari for the south.