Sardinia, a corner of green paradise!
There are plenty reasons for you to start planning your next trip to this out-of-this-world verdant tropical paradise. Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Regione Autonoma della Sardegna, as it is officially named, is an autonomous region of Italy, located west of the Italian Peninsula with an area of 24,100 km. The island is separated from Corsica by the Strait of Bonifacio and its capital is named Cagliari. Its wild beauty, diverse landscape, heavenly inlets, emerald waters, medieval cities, local Italian delicacies, smooth golden sand beaches and the vibe of an era which remained unchanged over time, will make your travel experience unforgettable!
View of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia
Besides the unreal natural beauty of the landscape, which harmoniously combines sea and mountains, Sardinia is perfect for relaxation and entertainment offering activities for all tastes. Discover the mountainous countryside, hike in the heights of the island and try out mountain biking throughout special routes. Admire the view of the coastline and walk through the famous parks of the area with the dense vegetation and intense green color. Sardinia seems ideal for those who love tranquility, nature, good food, cosmopolitan life, luxury as well as for adrenaline junkies since it offers many options between water sports and wild fun. If you are still thinking about it, below you will find all the information you need to organize your own trip to Sardinia and create your own personalized holiday package in the Mediterranean island with the endless hidden splendors.
The main square of Cagliari in Sardinia
Weather in Sardinia
The weather in Sardinia is similar to the weather in Italy, with clement and pleasant temperatures almost throughout the year. Its Mediterranean climate with the mild winters and hot summers make the island more popular for unforgettable holidays, where you will enjoy walks in the picturesque villages or in the cobblestone streets, relax by the sea, take a trip to the surrounding islands, take diving lessons, do water activities but also swim in the emerald waters. August is considered the warmest month, while January is the coldest one. However, during the summer season, you may need a cardigan due to the chilly winds, similar to the "meltemi" winds we have on the Greek islands.
The best time to travel
Summer is the best season for a trip to enchanting Sardinia. The warm sun, the bright colors of the sea and the sweet August evenings are perfect for enjoying the island.
The cities you must visit
The picturesque Sardinian cities are among the reasons why you should visit the island. Idyllic narrow alleys, romantic corners for unique snapshots, medieval castles which take you back in time, cosmopolitan restaurants and bars, 5-star hotels and premium tourist resorts, that offer an unrepeatable accommodation experience, but also cinematic squares with charming shops that ooze with Italian sophistication complete the picture of a perfect vacation scenery.
Cagliari
Cagliari, should be your first stop as it is the largest city and the capital of the island. With a long history and timeless presence, the city's museums and monuments take you on a journey back in time accentuating the Roman tradition. Stroll around the colorful harbor and the prestigious Castello district in the center of the city, as well as the Bastione di Saint Remy. Relax in the downtown trendy cafés and enjoy an authentic Italian cappuccino.
Bastione di Saint Remy
Alghero
In this historic Sardinian town, located on the northwest coast of the island, with the medieval architecture and Spanish influences, the inhabitants cordial and friendly converse in the streets speaking Catalan, like they used to, back in the good old days. In the lively heartland you will find an impressive historical center with beautiful sights, Gothic churches as well as a wide variety of restaurants and bars which always keep up to the picturesque mood of the island. The Sardinian city of Alghero is an ideal starting point for further exploration to most famous sight seeings as well as to the wider area of Riviera del Corallo.
Alghero, a mediaeval city of Sardinia
Sassari
Next stop to Sassari, the second largest city of Sardinia. The remarkable city center with the authentic character, the grand boulevards, the special architecture, the squares and the aristocratic palaces will undoubtedly impress the visitor. Be sure to take a walk to Piazza d' Italia and the Fontana di Rosello, the archaeological museum of the area and also the church Santissima Trinità di Saccargia.
Sassari, the second largest city of Sardinia
Costa Smeralda
Of course, your excursion to Sardinia does not end here. Among the cities that win the public admiration is also Costa Smeralda with the cosmopolitan bustling atmosphere and the allegro character. As it seems, this particular area is a hot tourist attraction. Travelers from every corner of the earth choose Costa Smeralda to enjoy the natural beauty with heavenly beaches and luxurious restaurants. However, despite of the tourist influence, the city has managed to maintain its authentic character.
Costa Smeralda, the cosmopolitan side of the island
Bosa
Discover the small town of Bosa with the bright colors, that win the traveler at first sight. Built next to the river it consists of a central street with restaurants and shops for all tastes. Visit the Cathedral, the museum with the artworks and embroideries and discover the intoxicating city that is buzzing with life. Last but not least, a stop at Castle of Serravalle with its breathtaking view throughout the city, is a must. If the above, make you looking for information on what's next on your trip to Sardinia, then check the town of Tharros, which means Bravery in Greek, on your "to do" list as well.
Bosa, one city, many colors
Tharros (Bravery)
Tharros is an ancient city of great historical interest. Located on the western coast of the island, it is said to have been founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century B.C. There, you will visit archaeological sites and monuments, house ruins, temples and thermal baths.
Top beaches in Sardinia
The beaches in Sardinia are reminiscent of an exotic island and even if they look fake, they are completely true. Walk barefoot in the powder-like white sand and enjoy the green waters which offer a wide range of options for every taste. In Sardinia, you will find the ideal beach to relax by the seashore, admire the magic of the blue horizon, do water sports or drink your cocktail among the international elite. For the hopelessly in love, you can admire with your significant other the view of enchanting sunsets or take romantic boat rides and share a diving experience in the impressive sea floor.
Punta Molentis
Punta Molentis, with the crystal clear waters and the silky-like white sand, is considered to be among the most impressive beaches on the island. An excellent choice for relaxation since the beach is well organized with umbrellas and a restaurant that offers local and international flavors.
Romazzino
Located in Costa Smeralda, the area stimulates the senses with the smell of rosemary that intoxicates the visitor at first, as well as with the grandeur of the beauty of the surrounding scenery. A large stretch of white sand hidden in the granite cliffs, with shallow turquoise waters and a view of the Mortorio Island, is a secret paradise on earth, ideal for nature lovers. Here you will find beach bars, modern tourist services and comfortable parking.
Romazzino, a beach that smells rosemary
Rena Majori
Suitable for sea activities since its emerald waters are perfect for diving and snorkelling. In case you have not brought your own equipment, you will find umbrellas, sunbeds and all beach necessities.
Lido di Orri
This white, sandy beach is ideal for surfing and kite-surfing. The 16 km coastline, has turquoise waters, many coves and is considered one of the most beautiful bays of the island. If your holidays are synonymous to relaxation under the sun on a tropical beach, then Sardinia is the ultimate destination to recharge your batteries.
Lido di Orri, a beach ideal for surfing
Pittulongu
Located near the city of Olbia, with turquoise shallow waters and velvety sand it is ideal for couples and families.
Is Arenas Bianca
A windless and quiet beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for spending a whole day by the sea. Its white sandhills reach up to 30 meters, while the fact that it is located in a military area, although easily accessible, make it one of the most private options.
Pelosa
One of the most favorite beaches of Italians and among the most beautiful of the world, with crystal clear waters and pure white sand, looks like a real oasis in a tropical setting. It is located near the Sassari region and is known for its diving centers. It is suitable for scuba diving, kayaking, snorkelling and windsurfing. The absolute must see on the island.
Cala Goloritze
An idyllic spot that can be reached from the sea or on foot by crossing a small path that leads directly to the heart of a seaside private Eden.
Cala Goloritze, a beach worth visiting
Sightseeings in Sardinia
Sardinia is not only for dolce vita. The cosmopolitan island with the charming contrasts and a wide range of options has a rich cultural interest and many attractions that will not leave you indifferent. You will find Unesco World Heritage Sites, museums, archaeological monuments but also locations with a strong cultural character. In its capital, Cagliari, you will discover palaces and medieval castles, while in Oristano, elegant shopping streets with popular cafés and busy squares. Visit the village of Bossa with its colorful houses and picturesque harbor and admire the medieval walls that rise in the lively but also extremely historic city of Alghero. Make a stop at its folk art and textile museum of the city of Castelsardo, in the ancient museum in Sant'Antioco, in the farmhouse of Giuseppe Garibaldi but also in the city of Nuoro with its historical buildings and timeless alleys. The list of worth visiting destinations has no end. So, add to your schedule the Serbariu coal mine museum in the town of Carbonia, the village of Orgosolo with its remarkable 150 murals that decorate its streets and the Nuraghe Arrubiu, one of the largest megalithic buildings. In the town of Tharros you will stroll around on an impressive archaeological site on the west coast, while don't forget to take a walk through the coral museum and the cave of Su Marmuri. Take a picture of the rock of Pan di Zucchero, a wonderful natural wonder and pride of Sardinia, the Poseidon caves, the island of Sant' Antioco, the Gorropu gorge with its limestones, the Sa Spendula waterfalls, the Asinara National Park, but also the Gennargentu National Park. However, the highlights of your trip there are the Capo Testa peninsula but also the caves of Is Zuddas.
Culinary options and local dishes
The cuisine of Sardinia is based on the authentic Italian cuisine embellished with various local specialties. Pasta, cheese, seafood and various local traditional dishes, cooked by housewives, are the stars of the show. Surrender to the charm of the porcetto that is not other than roast pork, soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Try culurgiones, stuffed pasta with potato and pecorino. Taste malloreddus, which are thin shell shaped pasta with sausage and tomato sauce. Enjoy pane carasau, a sourdough bread with olive oil or traditional pasta with sea urchins. Another famous recipe is fregola ai frutti di mare, which is couscous with seafood and of course the local authentic seadas stuffed with pecorino and honey. An all star product of the region that you must try and bring back home is pecorino. If you are among the brave, try the rotten cheese, Casu Marzu. It is a timeless traditional delicacy and despite it being banned by the European Union, in Sardinia there are still artisans who make it, keeping the island's culinary heritage alive.
Accommodation in Sardinia
There are plenty accommodation options in Sardinia depending on your taste and budget. You will find classic luxury hotels and downtown hostels, old mansions, seaside resorts, villas with spa and advanced luxurious services as well as boutique hotels with unique decoration.
Plan your trip
From Greece, you can reach Sardinia by boat or by plane. You will be able fly from Europe to Sardinia with daily direct flights, operated all year round. In the island there are 3 airports (Aeroporto Olbia Costa Smeralda, Aeroporto Alghero, Cagliari International Airport Elmas) and 5 ports that operate during the year to assist with the tourist traffic. Most Sardinian ports (Cagliari, Porto Torres, Porto di Olbia, Golfo Aranci, Arbatax) are connected with Italy, France and Spain and in particular with Genoa, Naples, Civitavecchia, Palermo, Piombino, Livorno, Savona, Nice, Toulon, Porto Vecchio, Positano, Barcelona and Corsica.
There are many ways to get to this wonderful island. The trip from Athens to Sardinia is a unique experience. Either by plane to Rome and then by ferry that connects Civitavecchia with the Port of Olbia, or with the help of Let's Ferry that provides you with routes to Italy from Patras and Igoumenitsa. Navigate through our website from the comfort of your home or office, find tickets at the best prices and travel to the irresistible Mediterranean tropical paradise.