Sardinia is a natural wonder and undoubtedly one of islands most beautiful in the Mediterranean. This majestic island of 24.090 km² has an extraordinary and incomparable charm, thanks to wild and paradisiacal beaches, and a breathtaking historical and cultural heritage. Due to its size and the large number of interesting sites it hosts, choosing the right place to stay in Sardinia can be a bit complicated for those who don't know the island well.
There are many alternatives both for those looking for beautiful beaches and for those who want to learn about Sardinian culture and history. Here is our guide to find out which city to stay in Sardinia!
The best areas to stay in Sardinia
The options for staying in Sardinia are different and of quality. You can find boats, villas, hotels, apartments and up to 40 campsites, with prices for all budgets, from 15 euros in a hostel to over 400 in a five-star hotel.
In addition to the accommodation options, the variety of locations is also quite wide. Lively or quiet places, cities and towns, on the beach or inland. Below you will find a list of some of the best areas to stay in Sardinia.
Cagliari
Surrounded by lakes and bays, Cagliari is a dynamic city with a great archaeological and historical heritage, a must for tourists.
The city is divided into four historic districts. That of the Castle, the oldest in Cagliari, is absolutely not to be missed. It is located on a hill and houses two of the most beautiful monuments in the city: the Cathedral of Santa Maria and Bastion of Saint Remy. From the top of the bastion, the Umberto I terrace undoubtedly offers the most beautiful panorama of the city.
Other essential attractions are theRoman amphitheater of Cagliari, with 1.800 years of history; there Tower of the Elephant and the very ancient Tower of San Pancracio, one of the symbols of the city; the Castello di San Michele from the 14th century, built in the highest area of the city and the National archeologic museum which exhibits artifacts from the Nuragic age to the Byzantine era.
Also not to be missed is the city beach which is called Poetto and becomes a lively meeting place on warm summer evenings when the bars come to life.
Cagliari hosts the largest number of accommodations in Sardinia. The B & Bs and hotels are easy to find and of good quality. Try to find a room around the dock area as this is where most of the action takes place, day and night.
Cagliari is located in the south of the island and you can reach it easily thanks to its port and its airport. It is a city on a human scale, and it is very easy to move around without using public transport. During the day as well as in the evening, the city is suitable for families and is very lively thanks to the numerous bars and restaurants scattered throughout.
Cagliari is a concentrate of everything the island has to offer, and is a great option to sleep in Sardinia. In the high season, it will take between 100 and 150 euros per night for a well-located accommodation in the city center.
Find accommodation in Cagliari
Villasimius
Villasimius is a town of 3.600 inhabitants located in the extreme south-east of the island. It is a tourist destination popular with families, who choose it as a destination to stay in Sardinia. Its coast offers those who venture there breathtaking landscapes and white sand beaches worthy of postcard landscapes.
The center of Villasimius is extremely dynamic and hosts several shops, restaurants and cafes. Its small marina is also a very pleasant area to stroll around enjoying an ice cream at the end of the day.
But Villasimius is a popular vacation spot also among young people. Indeed, his nightlife is particularly lively thanks to its many pubs and discos. In addition, here you can find good prices to stay in Sardinia.
Do not miss some of the most beautiful beaches: Porto sa Ruxi, Campus and Campulongu, La Spiaggia del Riso, Cala Caterina, Porto Giunco, Punta Molentis.
Between lounging by day and partying at night, Villasimius is the ultimate tourist destination for the whole family.
Find accommodation in VillasimiusOlbia
The coastal city of Olbia, located in a narrow bay in the north-east of Sardinia, is one of the most touristic and important cities of the island. Founded by the Carthaginians, destroyed and built countless times, Olbia still retains a rich historical heritage.
Olbia has about 60.000 inhabitants. It has an important port, served by many shipping companies, and an airport that make it one easily accessible destination.
The city hosts some interesting tourist sites such as the churches of San Pietro and San Paolo, the XNUMXth century Basilica-Cathedral of San Simplicio, the castles of Pedres and Sa Paulazza or its historic center. But it is above all its surroundings that are worth seeing, the fine sandy beaches with crystal clear water like Cala Brandinchi.
With such characteristics, Olbia is a pleasant place to stay in Sardinia, especially as accommodation prices are relatively affordable.
By renting a car, you can wander around the island all day, and then enjoy the charm of the city after sunset, tasting a drink or a meal on Corso Umberto, the main artery of the city center that directly overlooks the harbor. .
Find accommodation in Olbia
Porto Cervo
A true jewel of the Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is a recent city, close to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Built in the 60s, it is now an internationally renowned beach destination, very popular with the wealthy. Its harbor, built to house large yachts, is a sight in itself.
The Piazzetta delle Chiacchiere, the central square of the city, hosts numerous luxury shops, adorned with the multicolored balconies of the houses. It is very pleasant to stroll through its charming alleys.
Porto Cervo is also home to a considerable number of restaurants and nightclubs, more aimed at "high level" customers.
It can therefore be difficult to find cheap accommodation for those on a tight budget. Indeed, accommodation prices in this location are around € 300 per night during the summer.
Each beautiful beach has its own atmosphere, from the busier beaches in the south to the more relaxed and quiet ones in the north. Don't miss the beaches del Grande Pevero, Capriccioli, del Principe, Liscia Ruja ...
If you are on a budget, you can visit Porto Cervo on a day trip and stay in more traditional and less expensive villages nearby such as Cannigione, Arzachena e San Pantaleo.
Find accommodation in Porto CervoSan Teodoro
The pretty seaside town of San Teodoro is located about 30 kilometers south of Olbia. I am countless beaches scattered along its coast, some of which are still totally wild, while others are perfectly equipped, great for families. True symbol of the city, the Cinta beach it is a must for your visit.
Its marina is home to yachts, sailboats and typical small fishing boats. During the summer season the atmosphere is very pleasant and there are numerous restaurants to taste the Sardinian gastronomy.
San Teodoro is particularly aimed at a young audience with its many nightclubs located in the city center.
Considering his ideal position, which makes it easy to access all of the north of the island, can be a great option to stay in Sardinia. In July and August, hotel nights cost an average of € 150.
Find accommodation in San TeodoroOristano
Oristano is the ideal place to discover the wonders of west coast of the island. Created in 1070 by the Byzantines, it is truly a small medieval town, quiet and suitable for families.
Between sea and mountains, Oristano offers relaxation and serenity. Even in the height of summer, the possibility of walking through its alleys without being disturbed by hordes of tourists is much appreciated.
The same goes for the surrounding beaches, which are still untouched by the mass tourism that flocks to other parts of the island.
In terms of places of interest, they are worth a visit there Tower of San Cristoforo and Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. One of the best neighborhoods is that of Torre Grande, near the sea, with its beach that stretches for several kilometers.
Those who decide to stay in Sardinia in the area will find a good offer of accommodation and affordable average prices.
Find accommodation in OristanoOrosei
On the east side of the island, Orosei offers a relaxing and family-friendly environment. The Gulf of Orosei is one of the most beautiful corners of Sardinia.
The city is an excellent place to stay in Sardinia thanks to its large offer of accommodation, albeit with a slightly high price. In the city there are cultural attractions such as the Soddu House Museum or the Church of Santa María De Mare.
Her surroundings are perfect for lovers of walking in nature, as the environment is wild and of rare beauty. The Gulf includes archaeological areas such as that of Monte Tiscali and the Nuragic Village of Serra Orrios, the karst area called Supramonte, the Suttaterra forest and the Throat of Su Gorroppu, the deepest canyon on the island and one of the deepest in Europe.
The strong point of this area is his spectacular seascape with Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, Cala Goloritzè, Cala Biriola, Cala Fuili and Cala Luna. Also not to be missed are the famous ones Caves of the Blue Marino.
All this makes Orosei a great place to stay in Sardinia and enjoy the wonders the island has to offer.
Find accommodation in OroseiSassari
A few kilometers from Porto Torres, Sassari is one of the most visited cities on the island. Although it is not located on the seafront, it is no more than 10 kilometers from the Costa Smeralda.
Sassari is the second most important city on the island and is an excellent base to stay in Sardinia, as you are in the heart of Sardinian culture.
The first thing that stands out about Sassari is its cultural offer and its historical heritage. The three main points of interest in the city are the Rosello Fountain, built in the Middle Ages, the Civic Theater and the bright Piazza d'Italia, on which stands the Palazzo della Provincia.
The remains of the Aragonese period are still present Sassari Castle, of the fourteenth century, and of the St. Nicholas Cathedral, from the Gothic period. The old city still retains places like La Marmora Street, one of the most luxurious of previous centuries.
Sassari is located in the immediate vicinity of the coast and not far from the most mountainous areas. It is therefore a good choice where to stay in Sardinia. During the summer it is possible to find accommodation in the city center for around € 80 per night, which offers excellent value for money in Sardinia.
Find accommodation in SassariPorto Torres
Located in front of Olbia, in one of the most beautiful gulfs of the island, that of Asinara, Porto Torres is one of the main ports of Sardinia. Porto Torres has evolved from an ancient Roman city and is now home to various archaeological sites rich in history, such as the Basilica of San Gavino or the Antiquarium Turritano archaeological museum.
The resort also offers direct access to the Asinara National Park, a preserved nature reserve, ideal for a hike. If you want to choose Porto Torres to stay in Sardinia, only 25 minutes by car will separate you from the sublime Le Saline beach, a real jewel of the island.
Thanks to the port and its beaches, it is a very popular area in Sardinia, offering slightly cheaper accommodation than Olbia.
Find accommodation in Porto TorresAlghero
Located in the province of Sassari, in the north-west of Sardinia, Alghero it is a different place from what you see in the rest of the island. Renowned for its medieval center with cobbled streets, it is more similar to a Catalan city than to a Sardinian city. With four centuries of Spanish rule, its Gothic architecture is reminiscent Barcelona.
The third is located in Alghero international Airport of Sardinia.
Alghero is a city surrounded by ancient fortifications, which make it unique. Its historic center is the most lively district, with restaurants, bars and several souvenir shops.
It will only take a few hours to stroll around this charming town and discover its monuments such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, Palazzo Guillot, or the Church of San Francesco, the Palazzo della Curia and the Diocesan Art Museum of Alghero. As for the beaches, there are some in the city and its surroundings such as those of Lazareto and Della Speranza.
In the immediate vicinity of Alghero are located the wonderful caves of Neptune. They are accessible directly by boat from the port of Alghero or on foot. The second solution, however, involves making a staircase of 654 steps.
Alghero is a good choice for sleeping in Sardinia since the activities in the surroundings are quite numerous to keep you busy for several days. Unlike Cagliari, this city is a bit cheaper, with hostels for around 30 euros per night.
Find accommodation in AlgheroCastelsardo
Castelsardo is an ancient entirely pedestrian village in the north of Sardinia that is definitely worth a visit. Set against the mountain and dominated by a 12th century castle, Castelsardo is one natural and architectural wonder.
The village is located in Gulf of Asinara, and offers spectacular views, fascinating historical sites, beautiful beaches, magnificent landscapes and many places to eat, sleep, drink and relax.
The small village has an intimate air and several things to see and do. It has good communications and a good accommodation offer.
Find accommodation in CastelsardoLa Maddalena
La Maddalena is part of the archipelago of the same name located off the northern coast of Sardinia. AND reachable by boat from the city of Palau and the two main islands (Maddalena and Caprera) are connected by the Ponte Moneta.
The city center is typical of a small Italian city, very charming. However, it is an extremely touristy site. There you will find many restaurants and ice cream parlors, especially around Piazza Umberto I.
It is above all the surroundings of La Maddalena that deserve to be discovered. Between wild coves and splendid panoramas, the archipelago of La Maddalena is a heavenly place with magnificent beaches and coves, some totally virgin.
Only the island of La Maddalena is inhabited and the number of homes is therefore limited. If you want to choose La Maddalena to stay in Sardinia, you must book well in advance to be able to find a place. The prices are therefore slightly higher than those charged on average in the rest of Sardinia.
Find accommodation in La MaddalenaWhere to stay in Sardinia - map
How to get to Sardinia
Sardinia has three airports, the airport of Alghero, which is located ten kilometers northwest of Alghero, the airport of Olbia, about four kilometers from the center of Olbia, on the Costa Smeralda, and the airport of Cagliari. , seven kilometers from Cagliari, the largest city in Sardinia.
The port of Cagliari is located right in front of the historic center, so you can easily arrive by sea.
Olbia also has a terminal for ships and ferries a short bus or taxi ride from the city center, and if you are sailing to or from Alghero it docks in Porto Torres, about 22 kilometers north of the city.
In our opinion the best way to visit Sardinia is hiring a car and traveling in complete freedom from one destination to another.
