Discover Sardinia: The Perfect 10-Day Road Trip
Sardinia is an ideal spot for a driving adventure. This island boasts stunningly varied scenery, including serene coastlines and twisting routes alongside historical landmarks. To experience Sardinia’s key attractions during your road trip, consider following this suggested plan over 7 to 10 days.
Interested in discovering Sardinia? These articles can assist you in planning your trip more effectively:
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Day 1-2: Reaching Olbia and exploring the Costa Smeralda
Visiting Sardinia often starts with arriving in Olbia, a coastal hub located in the northeastern part of the island. Prior to venturing out, spend some time discovering this picturesque town and its historical core. The Church of San Simplicio, along with the engaging archaeological museum and bustling thoroughfares, provides an excellent initial view into the regional heritage.
Following your initial day in Olbia, make your way to the renowned Costa Smeralda, a top attraction in Sardinia. Known for its stunning white sand shores and pristine turquoise seas, this area is not to be missed. Take some time to explore Porto Cervo, an elegant and charming coastal town, then spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach. beautiful beaches For example, Spiaggia del Principe or Cala di Volpe. The coastal route connecting these beaches is brimming with breathtaking overlooks offering stunning views.
Days 3-4: The Maddalena Archipelago
Starting from the Costa Smeralda, make your way to Palau where you can board a ferry to the Maddalena archipelago, an idyllic destination for those who love nature and the sea. To explore the principal island, La Maddalena, renting a car is recommended; this way, you'll uncover stunning shores like Spiaggia di Bassa Trinità or Spiaggia del Relitto, both offering opportunities to swim in crystal-clear water.
Spend some time exploring the lesser-known island of Caprera, famous for its untamed scenery and its historical connection as the former residence of the legendary Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Day 5: Make your way to Alghero and explore the north-western coastline.
Following your exploration of the archipelago, return to the northwest coastline and arrive at the historical city of Alghero. En route, pause for a visit to Castelsardo, which sits atop a hill offering panoramic views over the ocean. Upon reaching Alghero, embrace the Catalan ambiance within this walled municipality. Meander down the winding lanes of its old quarter, marvel at the ancient ramparts, and sample local specialties like Sardinian seafood stew. Also nearby, do not miss out on exploring the breathtaking Grotta di Nettuno, a cavernous grotto featuring limestone formations, reachable either via watercraft or along an intricate stairway hewn from the cliffsides.
Days 6-7: Make your way to Bosa and Oristano to explore the coastal areas and rocky cliffs in the southwestern part of the region.
Departing from Alghero, follow the picturesque coastal route to Bosa, renowned as one of Sardinia’s loveliest drives. Nestled along the shores of the River Temo, this quaint, vibrantly painted town makes an ideal resting spot. You might wander through its historical district, highlighted by the imposing Malaspina Fortress, or unwind at the nearby seaside areas based on how active you feel.
From here, continue on to Oristano. Alth less touristy, this region is full of hidden treasures including the Sinis peninsula and Is Arutas beach, famous for its quartz sand. Take also the time to explore the remains of the ancient Phoenician city of Tharros.
Day 8-9: Cagliari and the South coast
Your road trip then takes you to Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia. Cagliari is a dynamic and historic city, famous for its Castello, a district perched on a hill with gorgeous views over the Gulf of Angels. Do not miss a visit to the Roman amphitheatre, the Bastione di Saint Remy, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere of the lively markets such as San Benedetto.
Nearby, discover the idyllic beaches of southern Sardinia, such as Poetto, a long stretch of sand stretching for several kilometres, and the lagoons where you can admire pink flamingos.
For those interested in the history of Sardinia, visit the Roman town of Nora, located on a small peninsula just a few kilometres from Cagliari. Its remains, including mosaics and thermal baths, offer a fascinating insight into the island’s ancient history.
Day 10: back to Olbia via Barbagia
Finish your road trip by heading back to Olbia via the Barbagia region, located in the mountainous heart of Sardinia. This region is less well known to tourists, but offers spectacular landscapes, authentic villages such as Orgosolo famous for its political murals, as well as rugged mountains ideal for nature and hiking lovers.
The peak of Mount Gennargentu, which stands as the loftiest elevation on the island, provides excellent trails for hiking along with stunning vistas of the nearby landscape. Conclude your journey with a visit where you can savor the traditional fare from the rural regions of the island, featuring dishes like roasted young pork, cheese made from sheep’s milk, and thin flatbread known as carasau.
