Marooned in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is a sun-drenched island with postcard-perfect beaches, charming historic towns and mouth-watering local cuisine. Discover more than 2000 kilometres of coastline, explore the mountainous interior and escape to charm-soaked historic towns and villages.

Things to do

Sardinia is dotted with charismatic towns, villages and resorts that immerse you in the island lifestyle. Founded in 1769, Calasetta is one of the most picturesque, featuring sugar-white sand and crystalline water. The hilltop town of Posada is built around the ruins of a medieval castle, while Bosa will charm you with its pastel-coloured houses and beautiful coastal setting.

From white sandy bays to rocky coves, Sardinia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Costa del Sud is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline, with most of the action centred around the lively resort of Chia. The postcard-perfect bays of Costa Smeralda are a dream for yacht enthusiasts.

Sardinia’s mountainous interior offers some of the best hiking in Italy. The landscape is criss-crossed with scenic trails that take you past rugged peaks and flower-filled meadows. Many of the trails pass by nuraghe, ancient Bronze Age ruins that dot the island. The hike to Gola Su Gorropu canyon meanders through a lush oak forest.

There’s plenty to keep you entertained underwater, with Sardinia boasting some of the best dive sites in Europe. Explore shipwrecks off the coast of Cagliari, marvel at the underwater Roman ruins of Nora, swim past enormous granite boulders in Capo Carbonara and discover natural wonders like Nereo Cave.

Sardinia will tantalise your palate with delicious cuisine inspired by the island’s unique climate and ecosystem. Try local specialties such as “su porcheddu” roast suckling pig, “culurgiones” stuffed pasta and “zuppa gallurese” casserole served with crusty bread. Pair your meal with a glass of Vermentino or Cannonau bottled at one of the island’s vineyards.

Getting around

Rental cars are the easiest and most flexible way to explore Sardinia at your own pace. Trains and buses connect major towns and cities across the island. Cagliari Airport is the main airport, with others located in Alghero and Olbia.