Renting a car is often the best choice for exploring Sardinia in total freedom. The public transport network does not cover all areas or does not cover them as frequently as is necessary for tourists.
A hire car allows you to reach hidden beaches, small villages and scenic spots without time constraints.
Here is a complete guide on how to rent a car in Sardinia, with useful tips on how to save money, what to look out for and how to book.
How to Book a Rental Car
Booking in advance online allows you to save money and have a greater choice of vehicles, especially during the high season – Utilizza piattaforme di confronto come Rentalcars, DiscoverCars o AutoEurope per trovare l’offerta migliore.
If possible, choose pick-up and delivery times that do not involve surcharges. Find out about cancellation or modification policies.
Some of the best locations to rent a car in Sardinia include Olbia, ideal for those landing in the north-east of the island, Cagliari, perfect for exploring the south, and Alghero, strategic for discovering the west coast.
What to Check Before Hiring
Read the clauses on mileage, fuel policy and insurance carefully.
Full Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is essential for worry-free travel in Sardinia. This option provides full coverage in case of accidents, vehicle damage or theft, minimising the risk of incurring unexpected expenses.
Often, renters offer insurance packages with different coverage options: from basic liability to comprehensive protection without franchise. Although it may seem a significant additional cost, good insurance can make all the difference.
With respect to the deductible, our advice is to opt for a full insurance cover and this is because, for example, there are still dirt car parks with little lighting. It can happen that minor damage is done to the bodywork (just those within the limits of the deductible) because of inconspicuous objects such as branches, boulders in the ground, etc.
Of course, it depends on how and where you intend to use the car.
Security Deposit
The security deposit is a sum of money 'blocked' on your credit card as a guarantee during the rental period.
The amount may vary depending on the rental company and the type of car chosen. It is essential to check the amount required in advance and make sure that your credit card limit is sufficient to cover it.
If the car is returned undamaged and in accordance with the contractual conditions, the amount will be released. Any damage not covered by insurance may be deducted directly from the deposit.
Often, the purchase of comprehensive insurance can influence the amount required for the security deposit.
Many companies significantly reduce or even eliminate the deposit required if full coverage is chosen.
Fuel Policy
Many rental companies in Sardinia require the return of the car with a full tank.
As is also the case at other locations, returning the car with an unfilled tank at 100% may generate additional refuelling costs. Please inform yourself well at the time of the check-in.
There are usually 24-hour automatic service dispensers near the rental car drop-off points. Find out beforehand where they are so that you have time to refuel and do not miss your plane.
Extra Accessories
GPS, child seats and Wi-Fi may have additional costs. Consider whether they are really necessary.
Speaking of GPS, using google maps with your mobile phone is often more than enough, but if you plan to travel to remote areas within Sardinia, you may have gaps in cellular network coverage, so the car's GPS may come in handy.
Tips for Saving
Early Booking - In Sardinia, prices tend to rise during the high season. Some companies offer discounts for long-term rentals or early bookings.
Avoid Major Airports - Renting a car in the city instead of at the airport is more inconvenient but can often be cheaper.
Choose a car that suits your needs - A compact car is ideal for couple travel, while an SUV might be more suitable for groups or families.
On-time delivery - Returning the car late may incur extra costs.
Fuel - Return the car with a full tank if requested.
Driving in Sardinia
Roads
Sardinia's road network is generally well maintained and offers a pleasant driving experience. Thanks to a relatively low population density in relation to the surface area of the island, the roads are often smooth and with little traffic.
However, during the peak summer season, particularly between late July and August, the situation can change dramatically. The main arterial roads and access routes to the most popular seaside resorts can become congested. It is common to encounter long queues, especially at peak hours or during the evening return from the most popular beaches.
Speed Limits
Rispetta i limiti indicati, che possono variare tra città, strade statali. Nelle strade urbane il limite è di 50 km/h, nelle strade a scorrimento veloce è di 70 km/h, nelle strade extraurbane provinciali è di 90 km/h, mentre nelle superstrade, come la Strada Statale 131, il limite è di 110 km/h. In Sardegna non ci sono autostrade.
Parking spaces
In tourist areas, parking spaces are expensive and limited. Checks are frequent - especially in July and August - so if you have to park for even a few minutes, pay for parking! It is not worth parking because the fines are high.
Service Stations
In Sardinia, automatic and non-automatic fuel dispensers are usually found in inhabited areas, but it can happen that you can travel several kilometres without a service station. Plan your refuelling, especially if you are travelling in remote areas.
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