7-day tour of Sardinia

7-day tour of Sardinia
  • 29.05.2025
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The Ultimate 7-Day Tour of Sardinia: Your In-Depth Travel Guide for an Unforgettable Island Adventure

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, is a land of dazzling coastlines, mysterious ancient sites, charming medieval towns, and a culinary heritage as rich as its landscape is beautiful. This detailed guide takes you through a complete 7-day tour of Sardinia, covering everything from where to stay, what to see, how to get around, and practical tips to immerse yourself in the authentic Sardinian experience.

Table of Contents

Why Choose Sardinia for Your Italian Getaway?

Sardinia is often overshadowed by mainland Italian hotspots like Rome or Venice, but this rugged island offers a distinctive Mediterranean charm that feels worlds apart. Its coastline boasts over 1,800 kilometers of jagged cliffs, hidden coves, and beaches with sand so white and water so clear the colors seem otherworldly. Inland, oak forests, granite peaks, and mysterious nuraghe (Bronze Age stone towers) dot the landscape, hinting at a civilization that pre-dates Rome.

Unlike many Mediterranean destinations, Sardinia is refreshingly free of overdevelopment and crowds, especially in the off-season. The hospitality is heartfelt, the cuisine unique (think savory cheeses, slow-cooked meats, and the freshest seafood), and the festivals are wild, colorful, and steeped in centuries-old tradition. Sardinia is also renowned for its “Blue Zones,” where locals regularly live past 100, offering a fascinating glimpse into a lifestyle that values tradition, simple foods, and tight-knit communities.

Getting to and Around Sardinia

Arriving by Air and Sea

Sardinia is easily accessible from the Italian mainland and several international destinations:

  • By Air: Major airports are Cagliari Elmas (south), Olbia Costa Smeralda (northeast), and Alghero Fertilia (northwest). Direct flights connect from Rome, Milan, London, Paris, Munich, and more during high season.
  • By Ferry: Ferries link Sardinia to mainland ports (Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples) as well as to Corsica and Barcelona. Main ferry towns include Olbia, Porto Torres, and Cagliari.

Traveling Within Sardinia

Public transport across the island is limited, especially for exploring smaller towns and rural areas. Renting a car is strongly recommended for maximum flexibility. Roads are generally good and traffic is light outside July and August.

Tip: Book your rental car in advance, especially during summer.

Where to Stay in Sardinia

Sardinia offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget:

  • Luxury Resorts: Especially along the glamorous Costa Smeralda (Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo).
  • Boutique Hotels and B&Bs: In charming towns like Alghero, Cagliari, and Olbia.
  • Agriturismi: Rural farm stays provide home-cooked meals and authentic Sardinian hospitality.
  • Holiday Villas/Beach Apartments: Ideal for families or groups.

Strategically splitting your stay between the south (Cagliari or Villasimius), northwest (Alghero), and northeast (Olbia, La Maddalena) helps minimize driving and maximize sightseeing.

The 7-Day Detailed Sardinia Itinerary

This thoughtfully crafted itinerary showcases the island’s highlights in a logical sequence, balancing coastal wonders, culture, history, and cuisine. Perfect for first-timers or repeat visitors eager to dive deeper into Sardinia's distinct regions.

Day 1: Discovering Cagliari – The Island’s Vibrant Capital

Morning: Arrival in Cagliari

Cagliari, perched on seven hills overlooking the Gulf of Angels, is both the island’s modern capital and a repository of ancient history. Settle in and prepare to be wowed by both urban energy and old-world charm.

  • Where to stay: Choose a boutique hotel in the historic Castello district, such as Hotel Regina Margherita or the contemporary T Hotel for added comfort.

Late Morning: Castello District – Ancient Streets & Panoramic Views

  • Bastione di Saint Remy: Climb this monumental stairway for breathtaking views over the harbor and city.
  • Torre dell’Elefante & Torre di San Pancrazio: These Pisan-era towers offer a glimpse into Cagliari’s medieval past.
  • Cattedrale di Santa Maria: The city’s cathedral dazzles with its intricate facade and baroque interior.

Lunch: Savor Local Flavors in the Marina Quarter

Marina is famous for seafood trattorias. Try spaghetti with bottarga (cured fish roe) or fregola alle arselle (tiny pasta with clams) at Trattoria Lillicu or Antica Cagliari.

Afternoon: Roman Ruins & Green Spaces

  • Anfiteatro Romano: Sardinia’s largest ancient amphitheater, carved into rock and still partially intact.
  • Orto Botanico: A tranquil escape filled with rare Mediterranean flora and shaded pathways.

Evening: Aperitivo and a Stroll Along Poetto Beach

End your day with a sunset aperitivo at one of Poetto’s beach bars—locals love this beach for its long stretches of sand and lively summer scene. If you’re lucky, catch impromptu music or dance shows near the old salt pans, where flamingos can often be spotted.

Day 2: Beaches and History Near Cagliari – Villasimius & Nora

Morning: The Coast Road to Villasimius

Pick up your rental car and drive the spectacular south coast road to Villasimius (about 1 hour from Cagliari). This stretch boasts some of the island’s most picturesque coves and pristine beaches.

  • Spiaggia di Porto Giunco: Powdery sand, shimmering blue water, and a scenic lagoon frequented by flamingos.
  • Punta Molentis: An iconic spit of land with turquoise water—among the most Instagrammed spots in Sardinia!

Lunch: Seaside Picnic or Local Trattoria

Enjoy a packed picnic (there are picnic areas at many beaches) or savor fresh seafood at Ristorante Su Giganti or restaurants lining the marina in Villasimius.

Afternoon: Archaeological Site of Nora

  • Nora: Dating back to the Phoenicians, this coastal archaeological site features Roman mosaics, baths, a theater, and temples—all beautifully set against the sea near Pula (about 45 minutes’ drive from Villasimius or 40 minutes from Cagliari).
  • Don't miss wandering the ancient stone roads, and climbing the small hill for a panoramic view.

Evening: Back to Cagliari

Return to Cagliari. For dinner, explore the leafy Stampace district—sample malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) at Sa Domu Sarda or trattoria Su Cumbidu.

Day 3: Inland Wonders – Barumini's Nuraghe & Oristano Charm

Morning: The Prehistoric Complex of Su Nuraxi, Barumini

A drive inland (about 1 hour from Cagliari) leads you to Barumini’s Su Nuraxi, Sardinia’s most impressive nuraghe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Guided tours: Essential for navigating the labyrinthine towers and learning about the Bronze Age civilization unique to Sardinia.
  • Casa Zapata Museum: Offers further insights into Sardinia’s ancient past and is situated right above buried Nuragic remains.

Lunch: Traditional Cuisine in Barumini

Dine at a local agriturismo, such as Agriturismo Su Nuraxi, to savor lamb stews, pane carasau (crispy bread), and house-cured meats.

Afternoon: Oristano – A Town Steeped in Tradition

  • Head north-west (about 1 hour from Barumini) to Oristano, renowned for its Carnival jousting festival, Sa Sartiglia.
  • Stroll the historic center: admire the Torre di Mariano II and visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
  • Tharros: Ruins of a Phoenician-Roman city on a beautiful cape west of Oristano. Combine archaeology with sea views!

Evening: Overnight in Oristano or Return to Cagliari

Stay overnight in Oristano at boutique hotels like Mariano IV Palace, or head back to Cagliari, depending on your schedule preferences.

Day 4: The Spanish Legacy and Seaside Splendor of Alghero

Morning: Coastal Drive to Alghero

Set out early for the west coast to Alghero (about 2.5 hours from Oristano, 3 hours from Cagliari). This picturesque port city is famous for its Catalan Gothic architecture and unique linguistic heritage.

Late Morning: Tour the Old Town

  • Cattedrale di Santa Maria: Showcases Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
  • Fortified Sea Walls: Walk along ramparts for dreamy Mediterranean views.
  • Boutique Shopping: Hunt for handmade coral jewelry, a local specialty.

Lunch: Seafood by the Harbor

Feast on Catalan lobster (aragosta alla catalana) or octopus salad at Al Tuguri or Trattoria Marco Polo overlooking the marina.

Afternoon: Grotta di Nettuno (Neptune’s Grotto)

  • Take a boat excursion or descend (via 654 steps!) to the Neptune’s Grotto—an awe-inspiring sea cave with stalactites and turquoise pools. Boats depart regularly from Alghero port (weather-dependent).

If you prefer to stay on land, explore nearby beaches like Spiaggia delle Bombarde or Lazzaretto.

Evening: Alghero’s Passeggiata

Walk the lively promenade at sunset, then enjoy a glass of local Cannonau red or Vermentino white wine at one of the city’s open-air bars.

Day 5: La Maddalena Archipelago – Nature’s Masterpiece

Morning: Ferry to La Maddalena

  • Drive to Palau (about 2 hours from Alghero or 3 hours from Cagliari), and catch the ferry (15-20 minutes) to La Maddalena island.

The La Maddalena Archipelago is a protected national park comprised of over 60 granite islands and some of the most crystal-clear waters in the Mediterranean.

Excursion: Island-Hopping Adventure

  • Boat Tours: Multiple operators run daily trips (in English and Italian) looping through the most spectacular islands—Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Caprera. You’ll see the iconic Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach—landing is forbidden, but viewing is magical).
  • Snorkeling and Swimming: Bring your mask! The water here is famed for snorkeling.

Lunch: Onboard or Beach Picnic

Most boat tours include a simple lunch (like pasta with seafood); or buy picnic supplies at La Maddalena port before departure.

Afternoon: Caprera Island & Garibaldi’s Legacy

  • Caprera: Once home to the revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi. Visit his house-museum and enjoy pine-scented walking trails and wild beaches (Cala Coticcio, a.k.a. Tahiti Beach, is unforgettable).

Evening: Return to the Mainland

Choose to stay overnight at La Maddalena (for tranquility) or return on the ferry to Palau for easy access to the Costa Smeralda the next day.

Day 6: Costa Smeralda – The Emerald Coast’s Jet-Set Glamour

Morning: Porto Cervo – The Heart of Luxury

  • Drive along the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia’s fabled stretch of coastline designed in the 1960s for European high society.
  • Porto Cervo: Marvel at luxury yachts, chic boutiques, and designer cafes in this purpose-built harbor town.
  • Stella Maris Church: A modern architectural gem perched above the marina.

Beaches: Spiaggia del Principe & Liscia Ruja

  • Spiaggia del Principe: Soft, white sand and iridescent water—often voted one of Italy’s best beaches.
  • Liscia Ruja: Expansive, less crowded, and perfect for unwinding.

Lunch: Beach Club Indulgence

Dine on local lobster, fresh salads, or a light pasta at one of the area’s famed beach clubs—try Phi Beach or Nikki Beach for a glimpse of the international jet-set ambiance.

Afternoon: Baja Sardinia & Arzachena’s Nuraghi

  • Baja Sardinia: Relaxed village with lively seaside bars, perfect for a mid-afternoon espresso.
  • Arzachena: Visit the nuraghe La Prisgiona and necropolis of Coddu Vecchiu for yet another taste of Sardinia’s ancient culture.

Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

Porto Cervo bursts to life at night. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant like La Pergola or enjoy simple Sardinian fare at a rustic osteria. For night owls, the clubs here (Billionaire, Sottovento) are legendary.

Day 7: Heartlands of Sardinia – Mountains, Food, and Tradition in Nuoro and Supramonte

Morning: Journey to Nuoro and Orgosolo

  • Drive south into Sardinia’s central highlands—a region of forests, crags, and ancient villages little changed by time.
  • Nuoro: Known as the “Athens of Sardinia,” this small city is an intellectual and cultural heartland. Visit the Grazia Deledda Museum (literary Nobel laureate) and MAN Art Museum.

Orgosolo: Sardinia’s Rebel Soul

  • Orgosolo: Famous for its vibrant street murals—political, surreal, and deeply rooted in local history, Orgosolo encapsulates Sardinia’s fiercely independent spirit.
  • Local guides offer tours elucidating the meaning behind mural stories and the community’s bandit past.

Lunch: Agriturismo Experience

Dine in an agriturismo just outside Orgosolo for a “pranzo tipico”—a multi-course feast of mountain cheeses, roast suckling pig (porceddu), sheep’s milk ricotta, and honey-soaked desserts—washed down with house red Cannonau.

Afternoon: Supramonte Hiking or Gennargentu National Park

  • For the active, join a short guided hike into the Supramonte limestone mountains. The dramatic landscapes are home to ancient shepherd huts (pinnettos), wild horses, and a unique ecosystem.
  • Visit Tiscali, an evocative Nuragic village hidden inside a mountain cave (requires a moderate hike—guides available).

Evening: Return for a Final Sardinian Feast

Complete your week with a celebratory dinner in Nuoro or Alghero featuring traditional dishes and local wines, reliving your week of incredible discoveries.

Sardinian Culture and Food – Savoring the Island

Cultural Highlights

  • Language: Sardinian (Sardu) is a distinct Romance dialect more ancient than Italian. Listen for it in rural bars and festivals.
  • Festivals: From the colorful Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari to Oristano’s Sa Sartiglia, local festivals feature horseback processions, medieval costumes, and wild celebrations.

Essential Sardinian Dishes

  • Pecorino Sardo: Fiery sheep’s cheese, a local staple.
  • Malloreddus: Saffron-tinged semolina “gnocchetti,” often served with sausage ragù.
  • Culurgiones: Stuffed pasta, like ravioli, filled with potato, mint, and pecorino.
  • Porceddu: Suckling pig, spit-roasted and crackling crisp.
  • Pane Carasau: Thin, crispy flatbread, sometimes layered with tomato sauce or cheese (pane frattau).
  • Seada: Fried pastry with citrusy cheese filling, drenched in honey.
  • Bottarga: Salted, cured fish roe, shaved on pasta or bread.

Wine and Spirits

  • Cannonau: A robust red wine; health researchers study its heart-friendly properties—often drank throughout Sardinia’s blue zones.
  • Vermentino: Crisp, aromatic white, perfect with seafood.
  • Mirto: Sweet liqueur made from myrtle berries, a digestive shot after meals.

Essential Travel Tips for a Flawless Sardinia Tour

  • When to Go: May-June and September-October offer perfect weather and fewer crowds. July-August is spectacular but busier and pricier.
  • Getting Around: A rental car is essential for exploring outside the main cities and beaches.
  • Reservations: Book accommodation and car rentals ahead, especially in high season.
  • Language: English is widely spoken in tourist regions; a few Italian phrases go a long way in rural areas.
  • Cash: Credit cards accepted in most establishments, but small towns may be cash-only.
  • Local Etiquette: Greet shopkeepers, respect siesta hours, and dress modestly in small towns and churches.

Packing Tips

  • Bring: Swimwear, sturdy walking shoes, sunblock, a sun hat, and a light jacket for evening breezes.
  • Driving: Sardinians are generally relaxed drivers outside cities, but note that rural roads can be narrow and winding.

Conclusion: Sardinia Awaits!

A 7-day tour of Sardinia is more than a Mediterranean holiday—it’s a journey through a land of dazzling contrasts and fascinating history, from the glitz of Costa Smeralda to the lost worlds of the nuraghi, from bustling seaside cities to quiet mountain villages where the past lives on in recipe and ritual. Each day brings new flavors, landscapes, and stories, making Sardinia an island that invites endless exploration and calls visitors back, time and again.

Whether you seek relaxation on some of Europe’s finest beaches, thrilling outdoor adventures, or a deep dive into culture and tradition, Sardinia’s unique magic will leave you inspired and longing to return. Start planning your Sardinian adventure today—and let this week-long itinerary be your key to uncovering the best of this spectacular island!

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