Historic cities, medieval villages, cosmopolitan ports and white sand beaches - Everything you can see in Sardinia, the second largest island in the Mediterranean that enchants with its natural riches, wild beauty and varied landscapes.
The Aegean and the Ionian may steal our attention every summer, but the Mediterranean has many enchanting islands worth adding to your plans. Sardinia,the second-largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily) and an autonomous region ofItaly, is an excellent choice, as it caters to every type of traveler. It offers impressive white-sand beaches, charming seaside towns, villages that seem untouched by time, significant archaeological sites, and cosmopolitan resorts for lovers of the dolce vita.
The best time to visit Sardinia is, of course, summer. If you dont like crowds, the island is beautiful in early autumn or in spring. Below, weve gathered what will give you a good taste of Sardinia and its charms.
The best of Sardinia
Cagliari
Sardinias capital is worth a little of your time. In Cagliari youll findbustling squares with restaurants and cafes, as well as a historic center perfect for strolls. Atop a hill, the historic Castello district is full of treasures. Narrow lanes flanked by stately buildings, palazzi, and churches transport travelers to another era. Must-see sights include the Bastione di Saint Remy for its panoramic views and beautiful architecture, the majestic cathedral, and the Archaeological Museum.
Sassari
Dont miss a visit to Sardinias second-largest city, in the islands northwest.The city ofSassariimpresses with its historic center, imposing squares, and palazzi.Piazza d’Italia with its grand palazzo and the Fontana di Rosello are two spots worth seeing.
Alghero
Alghero is one of Sardinias most beautiful and historic cities. A walk through the old towns lanes will bring to mind images of... Barcelona. Locals speak a dialect of the Catalan language, which spread when Catalan invaders took the city from the Genoese in 1353.
Neptunes Grotto
This two-million-year-old cave lies at Capo Caccia, near Alghero, and is one of the islands most popular natural attractions. Access is either by boat or on foot, descending about 600 steps carved into the cliff with spectacular sea views. The cave features magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, and is home to one of the largest saltwater lakes in Europe, Lago Lamarmora.
Tharros
On the west coast of Sardinia, on Cape San Marco near the Gulf of Oristano, lies the ancient city of Tharros, said to have been founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century. At the archaeological site, visitors can see temple foundations, baths, and the remains of houses and shops, mainly from the Roman era and the early Christian years.
Castelsardo
Castelsardo, perched on a hill in the islands northwest, is considered one of Italys most charming villages, With its well-preserved medieval castle, wonderful colorful houses spilling down the rock slopes, and the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, this village looks straight out of a fairytale.
Porto Flavia
Near Nebida in the southwest, Porto Flavia looks as if it came straight out of a "Game of Thrones" scene. Built into the cliff and overlooking the sea, this port is considered a masterpiece of mining engineering. Two tunnels connect the port to a mine that once allowed workers to load minerals quickly onto ships. Today, visitors can tour the site by appointment only and with a guide for safety reasons.
Costa Smeralda
Turquoise waters, luxurious villas, and grand hotels set the scene on the cosmopolitan Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast), on the northern side of Sardinia. The jewel of the Costa Smeralda is Porto Cervo, a small town that turns each summer into the international jet sets playground. The picturesque little harbor fills with luxury yachts and the streets with celebrities enjoying Sardinias sun and the dolce vita.
Top beaches
Sardinia is renowned for its stunning beaches. The options are endless, but some of the islands best beaches are: the popular Poetto in Cagliari, the well-hidden La Bombarde in Alghero, the cosmopolitan Spiaggia Del Principe on the Costa Smeralda, and the striking Cala Lula in Nuoro.
Extra getaway
If you have more time, its worth taking an excursion to the La Maddalena archipelago, between Sardinia and Corsica, with seven islets that locals also favor for their holidays.La Maddalena, the largest island, has a charming town with good restaurants and shops, while tiny Budelli is famous for its pink beach (Spiaggia Rosa).
Food
Dont leave Sardinia without trying fregula (pasta reminiscent of couscous), culurgiones (ravioli), malloreddus (gnocchi), bottarga,traditional myrtle or lemon liqueurs and, of course, the famous local cheeses.The best places to enjoy traditional food are the agriturismi - farm restaurants that cook using exclusively local ingredients.
