Sardinia: Italy's Mediterranean Jewel

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, offers visitors a perfect blend of stunning beaches, ancient history, and delicious cuisine. This guide will help you plan your perfect Sardinian getaway.

Getting to Sardinia from the UK

1. By Air:

• Direct flights from London to Cagliari (CAG) and Olbia (OLB)
• Airlines: British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair
• Flight time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours

 

2. By Sea:

• Ferry from Genoa or Civitavecchia (near Rome) to various Sardinian ports
• Requires travel to Italy first, then a ferry journey

Best Places to Stay in Sardinia

Cagliari: The capital city, perfect for first-time visitors

• Hotel recommendation: T Hotel

Costa Smeralda: Luxury resorts and stunning beaches

• Hotel recommendation: Hotel Cala di Volpe

Alghero: Historic town with Catalan influences

• Hotel recommendation: Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa

Olbia: Gateway to the Costa Smeralda

• Hotel recommendation: Jazz Hotel

Villasimius: Beautiful beaches and nature reserves

• Hotel recommendation: Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna

Top Places to Visit in Sardinia

1. Costa Smeralda

• Highlights: Porto Cervo, Spiaggia del Principe

2. La Maddalena Archipelago

• Highlights: Pink Beach on Budelli Island, Caprera Island

3. Cagliari

• Highlights: Castello district, Poetto Beach

4. Su Nuraxi di Barumini

• UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient nuraghe structures

5. Gulf of Orosei

• Highlights: Cala Goloritzé, Cala Luna beaches

6. Alghero

• Highlights: Old Town, Neptune's Grotto

7. Bosa

• Picturesque town known for its colorful houses

8. Asinara National Park

• Home to unique white donkeys and pristine beaches

Things to Do in Sardinia

1. Beach hopping along the Costa Smeralda
2. Exploring ancient nuraghe sites
3. Sailing in the La Maddalena Archipelago
4. Hiking in the Gennargentu National Park
5. Wine tasting in Sardinia's vineyards
6. Enjoying local cuisine, including pecorino cheese and porceddu (roast suckling pig)

Best Time to Visit Sardinia

• Peak season: June to August (crowded but perfect beach weather)
• Shoulder season: May and September (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
• Off-season: October to April (cooler temperatures, some attractions closed)

Practical Tips for Visiting Sardinia

1. Rent a car to explore the island's diverse landscapes
2. Learn a few basic Italian phrases
3. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
4. Try local specialties like culurgiones (Sardinian ravioli) and seadas (cheese-filled pastries)
5. Respect beach etiquette and protected areas

 

Sardinia offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure in rugged landscapes, or a journey through ancient history, this Mediterranean island has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Sardinia and experience the magic of this Italian paradise.