This short guide will take you through the location of the island, its different areas and provinces, the most beautiful beaches and the best activities for families and nightlife seekers.
Where it is located
Sardinia is located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, west of Italy and south of Corsica. It is the second largest island in the Mediterranean, with a surface area of around 24,000 square kilometres. Its strategic location has made it a crossroads of cultures and civilisations throughout history, contributing to a unique cultural heritage.
Zones and Provinces
Sardinia is divided into four main provinces: Cagliari, Sassari, Nuoro and Oristano. Each province has its own landscapes, traditions and attractions.
Cagliari
Cagliari, the capital of the island, is located in the south. It is famous for its historical monuments, such as the ancient Roman amphitheatre, the medieval quarter of Castello and the beautiful Cagliari Cathedral. The province is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Poetto, which stretches for kilometres and is perfect for swimming and water sports.
Sassari
In the north-west of the island, Sassari is the second largest province and boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in Sardinia. The city is renowned for its history and architecture, such as the imposing Piazza d'Italia. The province also includes the famous Costa Smeralda, a luxury destination with crystal-clear waters, exclusive resorts and a vibrant nightlife.
Nuoro
Located in the central-eastern part of the island, Nuoro is often considered the cultural heart of the island. It is characterised by rugged mountains, traditional villages and a strong sense of Sardinian identity. The province is home to the Gennargentu National Park, with spectacular trails and breathtaking views. The city of Nuoro is famous for its museums and festivals.
Oristano
Oristano, on the west coast, is known for its agricultural land and historic towns. It offers a quieter experience, with attractions such as the ancient city of Tharros and the pristine beaches of the Sinis Peninsula. Oristano is also famous for the Sartiglia, a traditional horse festival held annually.
Best Beaches
Sardinia is famous for its breathtaking beaches, each with its own unique charm.
Here are some of the most beautiful ones:
Pink Beach (Budelli)
One of the most famous beaches in the La Maddalena archipelago, Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) owes its name to the pink colour of the sand, due to fragments of coral and shells. The beach is protected, so you cannot access it, but you can admire it from afar or from a boat.
Cala Coticcio (Caprera)
Also called 'Tahiti' for its turquoise waters and white sand, Cala Coticcio is a secluded beach on the island of Caprera. It is ideal for snorkelling and enjoying a peaceful environment. It is reached by a walk along a scenic path, and the scenery you can admire is definitely worth it.
Cavaliere Beach (Budelli)
Located on the northern side of Budelli, this beach offers white sand and crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Access is restricted to protect the environment, so it is best visited by organised boat tours.
Cala Corsara (Spargi)
Cala Corsara is known for its picturesque scenery, with fine sand, emerald waters and interesting rock formations. The beach can be reached by boat and offers a peaceful setting, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the archipelago.
Cala Granara beach (Spargi)
Another island wonder is Spargi, with white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters. It is perfect for families and those looking for a place to swim and snorkel. The surrounding landscape of lush vegetation and cliffs further enriches the beach.
Low Trinity Beach (La Maddalena)
On the main island, Lower Trinity Beach offers a long stretch of sand with clear, shallow waters, ideal for families and children. It is easily accessible by car or bicycle and has several facilities nearby.
Monte di Rena beach (La Maddalena)
Another beautiful beach on the island of La Maddalena, known for its fine sand and calm, transparent waters. Less crowded, it offers a quiet spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Cala Garibaldi (Caprera)
Named after the Italian general Giuseppe Garibaldi, Cala Garibaldi is an enchanting beach with crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere. It is easily accessible and offers beautiful views and excellent swimming conditions.
Wreck Beach (Caprera)
Spiaggia del Relitto takes its name from the remains of an old shipwreck visible in the shallow waters. The beach offers fine sand and crystal clear waters, and is ideal for snorkelling and underwater exploration.
How to get to Sardinia
Getting to Sardinia is easy thanks to the transport options available. Whether you prefer to fly or take a ferry, there are several ways to get to the island. Here's how:
By Plane
Sardinia has three main airports serving both domestic and international flights, making it easily accessible.
Airports
Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG): Located near the capital Cagliari, it is the busiest on the island and offers flights from many European and Italian cities.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB): In the north-eastern part of the island, it is the gateway to the Costa Smeralda, well served by flights from several European countries, especially in summer.
Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO): Located in the northwest, near Alghero, it operates flights from various European and Italian cities.
Airlines
Ryanair: Cheap flights from various European destinations.
Vueling: Cheap flights from Spain.
EasyJet: Flights from major European cities.
Lufthansa: Connections from Germany and other parts of Europe.
British Airways: Flights from the UK.
By Car
If you travel by car, you can take a ferry with your vehicle. The main Italian motorways lead to ports with ferry services to Sardinia.
By Ferry
Taking a ferry is a popular choice, especially if you want to bring your car. Ferries to Sardinia depart from several ports in Italy and France.
Main Ports - North Sardinia
Porto Torres: It connects with Genoa, Marseilles and other ports.
Olbia: It serves the north-east, with connections from Genoa, Livorno and Civitavecchia.
Golfo Aranci: Also in the north-east, with connections from Livorno and Piombino.
Main Ports - Central Sardinia
Arbatax: On the east coast, it connects with Civitavecchia and Genoa.
Main Ports - South Sardinia
Cagliari: The southern port with connections to Civitavecchia, Naples and Palermo.
The Companies
Tirrenia: Frequent services from Civitavecchia, Genoa and Naples to various Sardinian ports.
Moby Lines: Connections from Livorno and Genoa to Olbia and Golfo Aranci.
Grimaldi Lines: Operations from Barcelona, Civitavecchia, Livorno and Naples to Cagliari, Olbia and Porto Torres.
Corsica Ferries: Services from France (Marseille and Nice) to Porto Torres and Olbia.
Concluding
Sardinia is an island of extraordinary beauty and diversity, with breathtaking beaches, unique landscapes and a rich culture. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure or cultural experiences, you are sure to find something that will fascinate you. Enjoy your trip!
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