Sitting pretty between Spain, Tunisia, the French Riviera, and the Italian mainland, Sardinia is one of Europe’s most alluring Mediterranean getaways. With its splendid white sands and translucent turquoise waters, the island is justifiably famed as a beach holiday destination; however, it’s well worth digging deeper to discover Sardinia’s walking trails, urban attractions, and unique cultural heritage.
1. Cagliari
Best for urban excitement
Sardinia’s capital and largest city makes a great place to begin or end your trip. Stroll through the narrow lanes of Il Castello, Cagliari’s medieval hilltop citadel, to admire the dizzying mix of architectural styles at Cattedrale di Santa Maria and the far-reaching views atop Torre dell’Elefante. Get a feel for Sardinia’s multi-layered history at the magnificent Museo Archeologico Nazionale, then enjoy the artwork at the Galleria Comunale d’Arte.
For shopping, dining, and nightlife, head for the bustling Marina district down by Cagliari’s palm-fringed waterfront. When you’re ready for something more tranquil, unwind at the fountains and gardens of the Orto Botanico or enjoy the sweeping sands of Poetto Beach.
2. Golfo di Orosei
Best for dramatic coastlines and scenic boat trips
With limestone escarpments plunging headlong into the sparkling Mediterranean, the Golfo di Orosei is one of Europe’s most dramatic coastal destinations. The meeting of land and sea here is so abrupt that the gulf’s best beaches, such as Cala Mariolu, are accessible only by boat or foot. The most straightforward way to explore this stretch of coast is on a boat tour from the holiday resort of Cala Gonone, which allows for ample opportunities to sunbathe and swim.
Hikers with the stamina to explore further will be richly rewarded by one of Sardinia’s finest coastal trail networks, extending south of Orosei from Cala Luna to Cala Sisine. Moreover, climbing enthusiasts will find excitement in Selvaggio Blu, a multi-day route that takes you up cliff faces into idyllic seaside landscapes that few tourists ever see.
3. Arcipelago della Maddalena
Best for island-hopping
Sprinkled across the placid seas of northeastern Sardinia is this stunning archipelago, preserved since 1994 as a national park. From the tiny coastal resort of Palau, small boat operators offer island-hopping day trips to watch dolphins and explore remote beaches, while ferry boats make the 15-minute crossing to the archipelago’s two largest islands, Maddalena and Caprera.
For an easygoing Mediterranean buzz, wander the pedestrianized Via XX Settembre in La Maddalena’s historic center and pause for an aperitivo during the evening passeggiata. By day, head 7 km east across the causeway to the Compendio Garibaldino, the sprawling former estate of Italy’s national hero Giuseppe Garibaldi; afterward, stop in for a swim at Due Mari or Spiaggia del Relitto.
4. Supramonte
Best for hiking
Hikers will adore the Supramonte, a rugged limestone massif punctuated by deep gorges and remote valleys, crisscrossed by spectacular walking trails. Near Dorgali, the 8 km round trip hike to Gola Su Goroppu passes through an enchanting valley perfect for swimming or riverside picnicking, then abruptly narrows into a gorge offering magnificent views.
Equally evocative is the nearby hike to Tiscali, a prehistoric village whose stone walls slumber under the shade of trees, embraced by the remains of a massive cave that once served as a mountaintop lookout for Bronze Age Sardinians.
5. Alghero
Best for couples
Gazing west across the Mediterranean towards Spain, charming Alghero feels equal parts Iberian and Sardinian. The city’s official language is Catalan, and its golden-hued 16th-century ramparts harken back to the days of Aragonese rule. Climb the Campanile next to the cathedral for panoramic views of the cobbled streets and Gothic palazzi of the historic center, backed by shimmering waters.
To appreciate Alghero’s easygoing holiday vibe, take an early evening stroll along the Sea Walls, framed by picturesque towers and lined with open-air restaurant terraces; at sunset, it’s the perfect spot to watch the world go by over a bottle of Vermentino and a plate of aragosta alla catalana (lobster with olive oil, tomatoes, onions, and lemon juice).
6. Barbagia
Best for traditional Sardinian culture
The rugged hill country south of Nuoro, known as Barbagia, was the last Sardinian outpost to be conquered by the Romans, and ancient traditions still persist in the region’s festivals. The Festa di Sant’Antonio Abate, held in mid-January, illuminates the village streets of Mamoiada with bonfires, where masked men parade through town.
If you miss the main event, Mamoiada’s Museo delle Maschere Mediterranee features fabulous displays of masks and costumes. The nearby village of Orgosolo is another fascinating place, where visitors can explore an incredible collection of murals depicting a range of themes.
7. Nuraghe Su Nuraxi
Best for history
Sardinia’s abundance of prehistoric archaeological sites offers a captivating glimpse of the island’s past. One of the most notable is Nuraghe Su Nuraxi, about an hour north of Cagliari. Although the four conical towers that once dominated the landscape are now worn down, you can still visualize the Bronze Age village that once thrived here.
8. Parco Nazionale dell’Asinara
Best for wildlife
Secluded off Sardinia’s northwestern tip, the Parco Nazionale dell’Asinara is an island oasis where nature reigns supreme. Visitors can encounter fascinating wildlife, including albino donkeys, wild boar, and loggerhead turtles. Access is restricted to day trippers only, so catching an early ferry is recommended to fully enjoy the island’s stunning beaches and granite coves.
