Are you planning a trip to Sardinia and wondering which are the top attractions, historical and cultural sites, natural wonders and scenic spots to visit?
Look no further, as we have put together a comprehensive guide for you to make the most of your visit to this stunning Italian island.
1- Cagliari
Cagliari is the capital city of Sardinia is a must-visit destination, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning views. Some of the top attractions in Cagliari include the Castello district, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Roman Amphitheater, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Poetto Beach.
If you decide to visit the south-southwest coast (where Cagliari is located), I take this opportunity to remind you that we have a house for rent. For more information, please click here.
The house we rent is in a strategic location, less than an hour from Cagliari and Cagliari airport (the main airport in Sardinia). The house is located in Castiadas, surrounded by nature and close to the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, yet still very close to Cagliari, allowing for day trips, aperitifs in the pedestrian area of the city, or even shopping.
A suggestion from a local: after spending a day at the beach and taking a refreshing shower, my wife and I love to head to Cagliari to enjoy a spritz at sunset and watch people walking along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II (it’s the name of the street).
This is a perfect way to wind down and soak up the local culture and atmosphere of this beautiful city.
2- Nuraghe di Barumini
This ancient archeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive and well-preserved examples of the Nuragic civilization. This prehistoric site features stone towers, walls, and dwellings that date back over 3,000 years.
3- Maddalena Arcipelago
This group of islands located off the northeast coast of Sardinia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters in the Mediterranean. Visitors can explore the islands by boat, enjoy water sports and swimming, and take in the stunning views.
4- Grotte di Nettuno
Located on the northwestern coast of Sardinia, these caves are a natural wonder that should not be missed. Visitors can explore the caves by foot or by boat, and marvel at the stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes.
5- Costa Smeralda
This famous stretch of coastline on the northeast coast of Sardinia is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and luxurious resorts. Visitors can enjoy water sports, sunbathing, and exploring the picturesque towns of Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo.
6- La Pelosa Beach
This stunning beach located on the northwest coast of Sardinia is famous for its turquoise waters and white sand. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim, snorkel, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains.
7- Tharros
This ancient Phoenician and Roman city is located on the west coast of Sardinia and features ruins and remains dating back over 2,000 years. Visitors can explore the ruins, the amphitheater, and the temple of Antas, and take in the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
Other info
In addition to the top attractions we mentioned earlier, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Sardinia.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the island offers plenty of options. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the rugged terrain of the Supramonte mountain range, while water sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the island’s many beaches to go snorkeling, scuba diving, or windsurfing.
Foodies will also love the culinary delights of Sardinia, which include traditional dishes such as porceddu (roast suckling pig), malloreddus pasta, and seadas, a type of sweet pastry. There are many local restaurants and agriturismi (farm stays) where visitors can sample these and other Sardinian specialties.
Wine lovers will also appreciate Sardinia’s wine culture, which produces a variety of high-quality wines. Some of the most famous wine regions in Sardinia include the Cannonau di Sardegna and Vermentino di Gallura.
Finally, visitors to Sardinia can immerse themselves in the island’s unique culture and traditions. The island has a rich history of music, dance, and festivals, with many local events taking place throughout the year. The most famous festival is the Sagra di Sant’Efisio, which takes place in Cagliari in May and is a celebration of the island’s patron saint.
Overall, Sardinia is a destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor activities and culinary delights to cultural experiences and historical sites. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with a family, there is no shortage of things to see and do on this stunning Italian island.
Conclusions
As an Italian, I can say that Sardinia is truly unique, even compared to the rest of Italy. It’s something that should be seen regardless of whether you have already visited Italy or not. Believe it or not, in a certain sense, it’s like two different nations, yet the same. I love Sardinia, and even though I live in Milan, it’s like my first home to me.
Sardinia offers a diversity that sets it apart from other regions of Italy. Not just for its beautiful beaches, but also for its culture, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes.
There are places in Sardinia that seem to come from another world, such as the Barbagia with its ancient villages, natural parks like the marine protected area of Tavolara, and the mountain of Punta La Marmora, the highest on the island.
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage and advantage (at the same time) is the distance of Sardinia from Italy and the rest of Europe. Of course, getting to Sardinia can be inconvenient, but this at least inhibits mass tourism and preserves the environment. In this regard, I wrote an article on how to get to Sardinia, if you want to read it click here.