Sardinia promises an unforgettable family adventure that blends pristine natural landscapes with mysterious archaeological sites, flavorful food, and welcoming people. This captivating atmosphere of the Mediterranean Sea’s second-largest island offers sunny weather most of the year and an array of outdoor activities to suit every age and interest, ensuring kids remain entertained and will want to return for more.
Is Sardinia Good for Kids?
Although attractions specifically designed for children may not be abundant in Sardinia, planning your trip wisely will uncover the island’s rich tapestry of history and nature, turning it into an enthralling adventure for both kids and adults. Stunning beaches and rugged countryside create a delightful backdrop where friendly locals greet your little ones, while teenagers can snorkel in clear waters, hike along cliffs for breathtaking vistas, and explore remnants of the ancient Nuragic civilization.
While some remote coves may be difficult to reach with strollers due to rocky paths, ample resorts and equipped beaches cater to families. Additionally, discounts for children can be found at museums and archaeological sites, and the local cuisine—from gelato to sweet seadas—is sure to please, with restaurants commonly willing to accommodate smaller portions for younger diners.
Where is Best in Sardinia for Kids?
Each of Sardinia’s sub-regions offers something special for children, making it hard to go wrong when selecting your stay. Gallura, in northwestern Sardinia, boasts many child-friendly beaches characterized by gently sloping shorelines, well-equipped resorts, and plenty of entertainment for the entire family. Similarly, Costa Rei in the southeast provides family-friendly accommodations and campgrounds with activities suited for kids and teens, featuring white sands and clear waters.
Timing your visit is crucial; the peak summer months of July and August can bring extreme heat and crowded beaches, whereas winter may see attractions closed. Late spring and early autumn typically strike a balance between pleasant weather, manageable travel costs, and fewer tourists.
Best Things to Do in Sardinia with Babies and Toddlers
Relax at a Child-Friendly Beach
The allure of turquoise waters attracts visitors of all ages to Sardinia’s coastline. Some beaches, like Villasimius, located east of the city of Cagliari, are ideal for young children due to their shallow waters and presence of playgrounds, alongside archaeological ruins from the Nuragic Age nearby. San Teodoro, near Olbia, also offers entertainment and well-serviced resorts.
Explore a Toddler-Sized Sardinia at Sardegna in Miniatura
Located near Barumini, just an hour’s drive from Cagliari, the Parco Sardegna in Miniatura features many of Sardinia’s iconic monuments in miniature form, allowing for a comprehensive island tour within a few hours. The area also boasts an archaeological park, planetarium, botanical garden, and a section dedicated to baby dinosaurs, showcasing realistic reproductions of prehistoric creatures amid lush flora.
Observe Sea Life at Cala Gonone’s Aquarium
Cala Gonone, aside from its fantastic beaches, is home to Sardinia’s largest aquarium, offering a chance to explore the marine life that inhabits the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can wander through 25 tanks to see turtles, sharks, and octopuses up close.
Best Things to Do in Sardinia with Kids
Take the Green Train Through Remote Sardinia
The Trenino Verde della Sardegna (Sardinia’s little green train) operates on a century-old narrow-gauge railway, traversing remote landscapes at a leisurely pace of 20km/h. With five itineraries ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 hours, the train connects various towns and villages in central, northern, and eastern Sardinia, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery from historic carriages between April and October.
Spot Wild Horses at La Giara di Gesturi
Covering approximately 4,500 hectares, La Giara di Gesturi in central Sardinia is home to a large population of cavallini, among Europe’s last wild horses known for their striking manes and tails. Springtime is an opportune period to visit, as the reserve bursts to life with nature, and visitors may spot small horses mingling with hares, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
Things to Do in Sardinia with Teenagers and Tweenagers
Go Caving in Grotta di Nettuno
Discover the breathtaking Grotta di Nettuno (Neptune’s Cave), one of northwestern Sardinia’s most impressive natural attractions located in Capo Caccia. Here, visitors can explore the rock formation’s interior by traversing passageways filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and centuries-old freshwater lakes.
Learn About the Obscure Nuragic Civilization
Approximately 7,000 nuraghi dot Sardinia, providing insight into the mysterious Nuragic civilization that inhabited the island between 1800 and 700 BCE. The true purpose of these castle-like stone structures remains a mystery. Exploring them reveals fascinating aspects of Sardinian culture, with notable sites including Su Nuraxi in Barumini and Palmavera near Alghero.
Discover Coves, Hidden Beaches, and Trails at Golfo di Orosei
Rocky cliffs popular with climbers plunge into pristine waters at Golfo di Orosei in northeastern Sardinia. This picturesque region showcases a rugged coastline dotted with charming coves, which may be explored via hired kayaks or on foot along trails that meander through white sand beaches leading to perfect snorkeling spots.
Planning Tips
When preparing for your trip to Sardinia, comparing ferry transport from mainland Italy to flights is advisable. Low-cost flights are frequently available, especially during the low season, while ferries operated by Corsica Sardinia Ferries, Tirrenia, Moby Lines, and Toremar provide complimentary travel for children under four years and a 50% discount for those aged four to twelve. Ferries depart from various major ports including Genova, Livorno, and Naples.
While discounts on public transport are available around Sardinia, the most effective way to explore is by car. Visitors can transport their own vehicle on a ferry or rent one upon arrival in major cities. If opting for the latter during the high season, booking in advance is highly recommended.
