Things to do in Sardinia: Travel Guide and Tips | Italy
Sardinia is one of those rare places that makes you question every other travel decision you have ever made. An island where people routinely live past ninety, apparently on a diet of Cannonau wine, hand-rolled pasta and long, loud dinners with the whole village present. The northwest coast alone had me convinced I had stumbled into a painting: dramatic coastlines, villages where cats outnumber tourists, aperitivo boards that require a structural engineer to lift. These are the best things to do in Sardinia, from Alghero’s old town to the wild beaches no guidebook has found yet.
Updated in 2026.
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Best things to do in Sardinia
Sardinia rewards slow travel. The best things to do in Sardinia are often the ones you stumble into: a local food market, a deserted cove you reach by boat, a winery tasting that turns into a three-hour lunch. Below are the experiences that actually made it into my travel diary.
Tours and activities worth booking in advance
A mini yacht excursion from Alghero is one of the most memorable things to do in Sardinia. Book a mini yacht tour here and you will drift past sea caves, hidden coves and the kind of turquoise water that makes you question why you do not live on a boat. For snorkelling and local food combined, the Alghero boat, snorkelling and food tour is equally good. Furthermore, a full food tour in Cagliari covers the island’s most beloved dishes in a single afternoon.
Wine lovers should not skip the Gallura winery tour with tasting in Olbia; Sardinian Vermentino is criminally underrated on the international stage. Additionally, a Prosecco boat tour with snorkelling stops near Cagliari is the kind of afternoon that makes every other afternoon feel slightly disappointing by comparison.
Where to sleep: best hotels in Sardinia
– Click on the names for rooms and rates –
Alghero is perfect as a base for the northwest coast. Alghero Maze Guest House sits right in the old town and is bohemian chic; Robely Rooms is a stylish, intimate option nearby. For something more indulgent, Porta d’Oro Charming House II & Spa delivers exactly what it promises, and PedrAmare Suite is a dreamy retreat with sea views worth waking up for.
In charming Bosa, Dimora Sant’Ignazio Guest House and FIORELLI Rooms offer cosy, well-priced stays in the heart of the old town. Sa Domo e Giuanne e Giuanna has an authentic local feel, while Domo ‘e sa Rosa is a home away from home with lots of Sardinian charm, and a tiny rooftop terrace.
Boutique hotels in Sardinia worth splurging on
For a truly special stay, Sardinia’s boutique hotel scene is outstanding. La Villa del Re is an adults-only Small Luxury Hotels of the World property on the southern coast, with infinity pools and the kind of views you stop mid-sentence for. Petra Segreta Resort & Spa is hidden in the hills of the Costa Smeralda and feels like a very well-kept secret. Hotel Li Finistreddi, Hotel delle Rose, a Luxury Boutique Hotel, and Hotel Costa dei Fiori round out the list for those who want something small, personal and properly beautiful.
ROOMS AND RATES PETRA SEGRETA RESORT
Stintino and the north: things to do in Sardinia
A tiny village that is worth a proper stop. Grab lunch at La Darsena; the gnocchi with squid and saffron was one of the best things I ate on this entire trip, and they make killer cocktails with an impressive selection of G&Ts. Picturesque and unhurried, one afternoon is all you need to soak it all in.
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From Stintino, the famous Spiaggia La Pelosa is just around the corner. Gorgeous beach, but no longer a hidden gem; good luck finding a square inch of sand for your towel. We opted instead for the nearby Spiaggia del Gabbiano, which is far less crowded. Grab lunch at Il Gabbiano and order the mussels with tomato. After that, kick back on one of the beach loungers and let the post-lunch bliss wash over you.
Getting to the beautiful island of Asinara from Stintino is easy. Just fifteen minutes by boat and you arrive at one of Sardinia’s most rewarding nature reserves. Once there, you can go ashore for a hike or stay on board for a scenic cruise. Book the Asinara vintage sailing boat tour with lunch for a particularly good way to see the island. Just around the corner you will also find L’Ancora Porticciolo: perfect service, mouthwatering seafood and a vibe that is straight-up romantic.
Pro tip: on your way to Castelsardo, make sure to stop at Roccia dell’Elefante. It is quirky, photogenic and honestly, who does not love a rock shaped like an elephant?
Castelsardo: things to do in Sardinia
This little town might just be one of the hottest spots in northern Sardinia. Every day, busloads of tourists scramble through its narrow streets. If you are not getting a lift by bus, prepare for a serious climb to the old town. Worth every step, though; the old town is full of charm, with plenty of small restaurants to discover.
For a stay that does not scream stuck in the 1980s, check out the tastefully designed Real B&B Primo Sole. Bar Caffè Lu Juari has a jaw-dropping terrace view that makes it far too easy to linger. Order a coffee or a glass of local wine, soak up the sunshine and prepare to lose track of time entirely.
Foodies should make their way to Al Castello. Whether you are in the mood for a lavish charcuterie board or a long dinner, this place delivers. Book ahead. On your way toward Bosa, stop at the fascinating Basilica di Saccargia, built in 1112 and one of the most impressive churches on the island. There is a small café nearby for a caffeine boost before continuing your road trip.
FIND THE BEST HOTELS IN SARDINIA
Bosa: things to do in Sardinia
Bosa is one of my absolute favourites. Just as charming as Castelsardo, but without the Kilimanjaro-level climb, and somehow even more picturesque. The place is packed with colourful streets, cosy wine bars and inviting restaurants.
After a stroll along the Temo, the only navigable river in Sardinia, we stumbled upon a square full of lively food trucks. Fresh sardines and a carafe of local wine: that is Bosa in a nutshell. Keep an eye out for Panko or Alduccio Ristorante Itinerante. Pizzeria Cossu Giovanni is always packed with locals grabbing a slice for lunch, which is always the best possible sign. A delicious slice costs around €2.50. Moreover, Bacco Bistrot is, in my opinion, the spot in Bosa for wine and aperitivos. The setting is romantic, the staff is lovely and the food is beyond good. Locanda di Corte is another popular, atmospheric option for a longer dinner.
Bosa is small enough to walk everywhere, which makes exploring even more enjoyable. Stay at Domo ‘e sa Rosa, right in the heart of town, with a tiny rooftop terrace that is perfect for golden hour. You can also follow me on Instagram for more Sardinia tips and travel inspiration.
ALL THE BEST ACTIVITIES IN SARDINIA
Colorful villages | Things to do in Sardinia | Road Trip North West Coast
Fun fact: life in Sardinia is incredibly affordable! Wine is cheap here; a carafe large enough for four generous glasses costs about 6 euros. Cappuccinos are less than 2 euros, seafood is always fresh and the pizza is so good. Also try a glass of local Mirto liqueur while you are here.
ROOMS AND RATES AT LA VILLA DEL RE
Alghero: things to do in Sardinia
What a charming town. Alghero has everything: the energy of an old town, a fascinating blend of Spanish, Italian and Moroccan influences, plus a gorgeous long beach. It is the kind of place that makes you want to stay just a little longer.
A total must-visit is Prosciutteria Sant Miquel. Make a reservation. The owner will feel like your favourite uncle within five minutes, pouring excellent wine after excellent wine while jazz plays and you work your way through the most epic aperitivo board you have ever seen. We made this our dinner spot for multiple nights. Another great wine bar is SardOa; peek at the delicious bruschettas and pair one or two with a nice glass of local wine.
Bars, beaches and activities in Alghero
For a hidden gem, Riservato Beach Bar is your spot. Grab a sun lounger, enjoy an Aperol Spritz or G&T for just 6 euros and take in the view of that crystal-clear sea. Focacceria Milese is a popular sandwich spot where plenty of locals grab lunch, which is always a good sign. Craving something sweet? Swing by Igloo Gelateria Artigianale. For seafood, Ristorante di Pesce Gioberti serves excellent mussels. Furthermore, Cyrano is a quirky bookshop where you can sip coffee or wine while browsing; they host readings too. Strolling past the edge of town along the beach, you will find Maracaibo Cocktail Bar, great for a drink and even better for people-watching.
A Sardinian home-cooking class in Alghero is one of the most fun things to do in Sardinia; you learn to make culurgiones and leave with a recipe you will actually use at home. For the sea, the island-hopping sailing tour with lunch from the area is spectacular, as is the eco-friendly dolphin-watching boat trip from Olbia.
ISLAND HOPPING WITH DELICIOUS LUNCH
Rent a bike for the day at E-Mobility; one great route leads to the lively Summer Dream Beach Club, where you can grab a fresh poké bowl and one of those deeply comfortable beach loungers. For breakfast, head to Slow Bakery. The service can be a little slow (hence the name, perhaps), but the coffee and their granola with fresh fruit make it completely worthwhile. You are on island time now.
Planning more time in Italy? Don’t miss my Rome city guide and Amalfi Coast road trip!
The beautiful streets of Bosa | Things to do in Sardinia | Italy
Boat trips and sea adventures: things to do in Sardinia
Sardinia’s coastline is the main event, and the best way to see it is from the water. Nothing beats drifting past the La Maddalena Archipelago on a catamaran tour with lunch from Palau; fourteen islands, electric-blue water and a proper lunch on board. This is the kind of trip you will talk about for months. Additionally, the kayak tour with dolphins and aperitif from Golfo Aranci is a brilliant option for solo travellers who want to meet people while doing something properly active.
The coastal drive from Bosa to Alghero is spectacular. Along the way, stop at Spiaggia della Speranza for a refreshing dip in that sparkling blue water. It is one of those unexpected stops that ends up being the highlight of the day.
Staying connected in Sardinia is easy. Before you land, grab a Saily eSIM so you can navigate, check opening hours and share photos the moment you step off the plane. No queues, no sim card stress.
Prosciutteria Sant Miquel in Alghero. Mussels at Il Gabbiano and beach club Riservato in Alghero | Sardinia Highlights and Tips
The most beautiful beaches in northwest Sardinia
This stretch of coastline is, in my very biased opinion, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. These are the beaches worth building your day around:
Spiaggia di Porto Ferro, Porto Palmas, Spiaggia La Pelosa, La Frana, Spiaggia di Rena Majore della Nurra and Spiaggia del Lazzaretto near Alghero. Each one has a slightly different character, so ideally you would rent a car and work your way along the coast at your own pace. Speaking of which, pick up your rental at the best rates via Discover Cars.
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Things to do in Sardinia: Frequently asked questions
What are the best things to do in Sardinia for first-timers?
For a first visit, focus on Alghero’s old town, a boat trip to the La Maddalena Archipelago, the beaches around Stintino including La Pelosa, and at least one afternoon in the colourful village of Bosa. A road trip along the northwest coast ties it all together beautifully. Add a winery tasting and an aperitivo board and you have covered the essentials.
ALL THE BEST ACTIVITIES IN SARDINIA
When is the best time to visit Sardinia?
May, June and September are the sweet spot: warm enough to swim, not so packed that you cannot move on the beaches. July and August are peak season and prices are significantly higher. If you love having beaches more to yourself and do not mind slightly cooler water, late September and early October are absolutely lovely.
Do you need a car to explore Sardinia?
Yes. Public transport on the island is limited and the best beaches, villages and viewpoints are spread out across the coastline. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop wherever the scenery demands it, which in Sardinia is roughly every five minutes. Book in advance during summer; availability goes quickly.
Bosa | Things to do in Sardinia | Sights & Highlights
How many days do you need in Sardinia?
A week is ideal for experiencing the northwest coast without rushing. This gives you time to explore Alghero, Bosa and Castelsardo properly, take a boat trip, visit the best beaches and do at least one day trip to Asinara or the La Maddalena area. If you want to also see the east coast or south of the island, two weeks is more realistic.
THE BEST RENTAL CAR FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP
- Find the best hotels in Sardinia at Booking.com
- Book the best activities and tours at GetYourGuide
- Find the best rental car deals at Discover Cars
- Book airport transfers at WelcomePickups
- Get your eSIM before you fly at Saily
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