Itineraries for Your Trip to Sardinia
1 Week in Sardinia for First Timers
Some of the most relaxing vacations in my decades living in Italy have been on the island paradise of Sardinia, which flies under the radar of international tourists but is a beloved summer destination for Italians. Its Shangri-la beaches, transparent water, and protected stretches of coastline beckon sun-seekers and snorkellers while archaeology buffs explore its prehistoric nuraghi ruins and foodies feast on fresh seafood and island delicacies.
If you yearn for a slower-paced trip with time in the water as well as culture and cuisine to experience what Italy is all about, this unsung island is an ideal retreat. With a week to explore, you’ll have time to savor without rushing. Here’s an insider guide to a week in Sardinia for a first-time visit.
Sun-soaked Sardinia requires light clothing, plenty of sunscreen, and a hat.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a day cruising through the waters of the La Maddalena Archipelago.
Begin in Olbia, Sardinia’s northeastern transport hub. Explore the old town with a sightseeing tour before continuing north to Costa Smeralda's beaches and swish resorts. Spot dolphins on a Golfo Aranci boat tour, bask on the Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo resort beaches, then sail to the Maddalena Archipelago and Caprera Island nature reserve.
On day three, join an excursion to Asinara National Park, a protected islet off Sardinia’s coast with pristine beaches and a countryside crisscrossed with hiking trails. Most full-day tours include a cruise, time on the island to hike and swim, and a Sardinian lunch.
Head west, visiting the Lu Brandali Nuragic Complex near Santa Teresa di Gallura and hilltop Castelsardo. Settle for two nights in medieval Alghero, a coastal city where the culture and cuisine were shaped by centuries-long Catalan rule. See gems like the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria and shop-lined Via Roma with an afternoon walking tour through the old town, or join a food tour to sample local dishes and wines produced in the outlying hills.
The next day, admire Alghero’s Coral Coast from the water with a boat tour, cruising past Neptune’s Grotto at Capo Caccia and taking a dip as you skirt the craggy cliffs and sea caves.
Spend your remaining days on Sardinia exploring Cagliari on the island's southern coastline. Begin with the medieval old town, going from top to bottom on foot or by e-bike, ending at Molentargius - Saline Regional Park on the Gulf of Cagliari to admire the resident flamingos. Later, savor the cuisine with a cooking class or join a winery tour to sip island wines served with Sardinian pecorino.
Finally, experience Cagliari’s coastline and inland countryside. Hike or kayak to Devil’s Saddle, then book an afternoon archaeological tour to learn about Nora’s Phoenician ruins or the Neolithic dwellings at UNESCO-listed Su Nuraxi.
