During summer, ferries and resorts become packed as visitors flock to Sardinia to enjoy it's stunning coastline.
But the appeal goes beyond the turquoise waters.
The island blends ancient traditions with diverse landscapes, offering not only fine sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs but also a mountainous interior blanketed in Mediterranean scrub. Whether you're planning a road trip, a hiking adventure, or a tour to uncover the island's hidden coves, here are a few things to consider before visiting Sardinia.
1. Plan for at Least a Week
While Sardinia may appear small at 270km north to south, you'll quickly realize that exploring the island fully requires more time than expected. From ancient Nuragic ruins and marine reserves to vineyards in the hills, you’ll need at least a week to appreciate the island’s full range of experiences. During peak season, it’s best to book accommodations and activities in advance as many popular spots fill up months ahead.
2. Travel During the Shoulder Season to Avoid Crowds
Summer in Sardinia, particularly July and August, is peak tourist season. The island sees large crowds and high prices, with everything from hotels to ferries being more expensive. To avoid the rush, plan your visit during the shoulder season—before or after summer. Sardinia’s sunny climate ensures good weather from spring through autumn, making it an ideal time for more relaxed travel and better rates.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Heat
Sardinia can get extremely hot during summer, with temperatures reaching up to 48°C (118°F) in recent years. In July and August, avoid midday outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, as the heat can be intense. Carry plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun, as the heat can be overwhelming, especially in the interior regions where wildfires are a concern.
4. How to Get to Sardinia
Sardinia is easily accessible via three main airports Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero serving both domestic and international flights. Cagliari, the capital, is the primary entry point, while Alghero is known for frequent low-cost flights. Alternatively, ferries from mainland Italy Livorno, Piombino, Civitavecchia, Naples, and Palermo provide another scenic route to the island.
5. Renting a Car is Essential
Though Sardinia has a rail network and buses, public transport is slow and limited, especially for accessing remote areas. If you’re arriving by ferry, bringing your own car can save money. However, if you choose to rent a car on arrival, especially during the high season, book well in advance. There’s a car rental shortage due to high demand, so securing your vehicle early is key.
6. Be Prepared for Multiple Languages
Sardinia is linguistically diverse. While Italian is widely spoken, the island’s indigenous language, Sardinian, is still used by locals, especially in rural areas. In the northwest, particularly around Alghero, you’ll also encounter Catalan, a reminder of the region’s Spanish heritage. Embrace this linguistic variety as you travel.
7. Choose Between Wilderness or Luxury
Sardinia offers a blend of rugged wilderness and luxury. The Costa Smeralda, a coastal area in the northeast, is known for it's opulent resorts and exclusivity, attracting international celebrities. If you prefer nature, Sardinia’s wild landscapes offer hiking trails like the Selvaggio Blu or the Grande Traversata del Supramonte, taking you deep into the island’s pristine wilderness.
8. Embrace Cycling to Explore Sardinia
With low traffic and scenic coastal roads, Sardinia is an increasingly popular destination for cycling enthusiasts. The island has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure, expanding dedicated lanes and routes. Whether you're biking through coastal villages or tackling longer trails, cycling provides an eco-friendly and relaxed way to experience Sardinia at your own pace. Most towns offer bike rentals, making it easy to hop on two wheels and start exploring.
