Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, located in the Mediterranean Sea, is rightly known for its dreamy white-sand beaches and clear waters. This Italian island has much more to offer than just its coastline because there is an abundance of rich history, traditional culture, charming towns, and stunning nature to be discovered. From ancient ruins to fantastic food, it is a place where you can soak up the sun, admire the sea, and hike or drive into the mountains for an entirely different perspective.
Whether you are a beach bum, a history enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, Sardinia has something to offer for all types of travellers. So, what are the best things to do in Sardinia? Here is how to visit Italy’s hidden island gem.
Discover Cagliari: colourful alleys and Mediterranean views
What is there to do in Sardinia? If you have ever asked this question, it’s probably because you think the island is all about beaches. So, start with Cagliari. As Sardinia’s capital, Cagliari is a great place to start your trip around the island.
The Castello district
This town offers a blend of modern cultural life and ancient history. Perched on a hill, the Castello district impresses with its narrow cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and breathtaking views over the Gulf of Cagliari. From old fortresses to old cathedrals, there are plenty of surprises in store for you in this neighbourhood.
The Roman amphitheatre
The Roman amphitheatre is the most famous sight in Cagliari, standing as an ancient remnant of the past. The amphitheatre remains well-preserved and offers an atmospheric setting for visitors to immerse themselves in how life was back in the Roman era. Set up on the slopes, the amphitheatre also provides spectacular views over the city and its surroundings.
After the amphitheatre, make your way to one of the town’s markets to experience the local culture. Piazza San Benedetto is the biggest and most authentic market in the town, where fruit, vegetables, fish, cheeses, and the popular Sardinian wine are on display.
Traditional foods and museums
Try traditional foods such as porceddu (roast suckling pig), culurgiones (Sardinian ravioli), and sebadas (fried pastry filled with cheese, lemon zest, and covered in honey). Avid museum goers will find their fix at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari. Here, many ancient artefacts such as sculptures, vases, jewellery, and other decorative objects from the Pre-Nuragic, Nuragic, and Roman eras can be seen.
Admire the Cagliari skyline
Do not forget to pop over to the nearby Bastione di Saint Remy, a square that provides one of the best views of the Cagliari skyline. No trip to Cagliari is complete without a visit to Poetto Beach. Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, Poetto is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Bars and restaurants line the beach; so what better place for an aperitivo as the sun disappears into the Mediterranean? Cagliari isn’t just a city; it’s the key to the heart of the island. This vibrant city is perfect for a first-time visit and a great place to start learning about the wealth of culture, cuisine, and history that Sardinia has to offer.
Relax in Chia and Villasimius: Southern Sardinia’s Dream Beaches
When most people think of Sardinia, they typically visualise the incredible stretches of beach with their crystal-clear waters. Chia and Villasimius are two of the must-see places in Sardinia, and it’s easy to see why. White sands, towering dunes, and crystal clear waters, who wouldn’t want to dive in for a swim or don a snorkel to explore the underwater world? If you’re searching for what to do and see in Sardinia, these beaches have the answers, especially if you enjoy a water sport or want to sit back, relax, and soak up the resplendent vista.
Villasimius
Villasimius is a beautiful coastal town with a lively centre and some of the best beaches in Sardinia. The water is calm and the sea is relatively shallow, making it the ideal place for swimming. Snorkelling fans love it because of the crystal-clear waters, and there’s an abundance of marine life to discover. Simius Beach is ideal for families because of its crystal-clear and shallow water, which is perfect for little ones to swim in. Visitors who want a more casual beach experience won’t be disappointed.
For something a little more off the beaten track, head to Porto Giunco Beach. It’s a far quieter beach with beautiful views to admire while lounging in the turquoise water. For the more adventurous, why not consider taking a walk to Porto Giunco Tower? Yes, it’s a real 17th-century watchtower, and the short hike provides the chance to take in epic views over the coast.
Chia
Chia has a slightly calmer feel about it with the windswept dunes and glass-like water. Su Giudeu and Cala Cipolla are among the most beautiful beaches to be seen. Su Giudeu Beach has soft, white sands and shallow waters, ideal for those looking to spend a leisurely day sunbathing and swimming. Cala Cipolla is slightly less visited, making it an ideal spot for those wishing to escape the crowds of holiday-makers.
Whether you’re sunbathing on the sandy shore or swimming in the clear blue water, these beaches offer the ideal escape from the daily grind. If you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach getaway, look no further than Chia and Villasimius.
Wander through Alghero: Catalan Flair and Coastal Beauty
Located on Sardinia’s northwest coast, Alghero is a town that feels distinctly Spanish on an island that is unmistakably Italian. With its picturesque cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and a dialect that sounds almost entirely like Catalan, Alghero stands out from other cities on the island for its unique atmosphere. The old town is a maze of narrow, atmospheric lanes with art galleries, cafes, and local boutiques creating the perfect environment for exploration.
Within the old town are striking landmarks such as the Cattedrale Santa Maria, an impressive 14th-century cathedral that fuses Gothic and Baroque architectural elements. Walking atop the sea walls, you’ll have beautiful views of the Mediterranean waves crashing on the rocks below.
One of the most popular activities around Alghero is to take a boat tour to Neptune’s Grotto (Grotta di Nettuno), a beautiful sea cave just a brief journey away. Inside, you’ll discover stunning stalactites and stalagmites with vibrantly clear water within an atmosphere that is ethereal and mystical.
If you’re a foodie, Alghero’s seafood options are sure to impress. Travellers can savour local lobster prepared in a Catalan-style broth, a unique dish that exemplifies how Sardinian culture and cuisine have been influenced by all parts of the Mediterranean. Other must-try dishes include the local-pasta-like “fregola” with seafood or malloreddus (saffron-infused Sardinian gnocchi) with sausage. With its natural beauty, historical significance, and foodie-friendly status, Alghero is an all-encompassing destination that offers a taste of authentic Sardinia and the Mediterranean area.
Hike to Gola Su Gorropu: The Grand Canyon of Europe
Sardinia is much more than just a pretty beach destination. It offers some of the best hiking in all of Europe. Gola Su Gorropu, often referred to as the European Grand Canyon, is one of the island’s greatest natural gems. The sheer canyon walls, crystal-clear waters, and nature-rich trails are perfect for anyone looking to get off the beach and into the wild.
The Gola Su Gorropu hike is the ultimate journey into the authentic nature of Sardinia. Local expert guides can show you the best path through the natural gorge and help you discover some incredible viewpoints and secret spots along the way. The walk is for those who love a challenge, but the astonishing sights make it all worthwhile. The whole gorge trek will see you walking between very high walls, going past pretty plant life, and hearing the flowing rivers.
Throughout the hike, you will see native Sardinian animals like wild boars and eagles. The gorge is the perfect place for nature lovers who also want some quiet, with its thick greenery and crystal-clear waters. For hikers and those looking to visit incredible natural places, it doesn’t get any wilder than this place. Be prepared to gasp in wonder at one of the most beautiful places on the island. Gola Su Gorropu is perfect for any adventure enthusiast or nature lover who finds themselves in Sardinia.
Visit the Nuraghe of Barumini: A Window into Ancient Sardinia
No trip to Sardinia would be complete without a visit to one of the beautiful ancient Nuraghi sites on the island. The Nuraghe di Barumini is the best place in terms of preserved Nuragic stone buildings built by the enigmatic Nuragic civilisation — which ruled the island thousands of years ago, and this site has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Barumini is located inside the Giara di Gesturi park, where you can explore the nearby hills after wandering the prehistoric ruins. The towers of Sardinia Nuraghi are huge and gorgeous in shape and design, making you fully aware of the advanced building skills of the Nuragic civilisation. The walk among the ancient structures provides an insight into the lives of the people who lived here all those centuries ago.
For those with an interest in Sardinia’s history, a visit to Barumini can’t be overlooked. From here, visitors can also head over to the visitor centre to learn more about the Nuragic civilisation and the meaning of the historical buildings. It will also give you a closer insight into Sardinia’s past, which is among the top things to do in Sardinia for all history buffs.
Explore Olbia and the Costa Smeralda: Glamour Meets Natural Beauty
Olbia is located in the north-east of Sardinia and is an upbeat town close to the famous Costa Smeralda. The area is famous for being home to luxury resorts, exclusive beach clubs, and striking snow-white beaches, and for this reason, it has become a playground for the rich and famous. Beyond the glitz and glam of Costa Smeralda, the region has so much more to offer. Once you leave the luxury resorts, you’ll find hidden coves, quiet towns, and beautiful clear waters, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers.
Costa Smeralda is the perfect place to combine natural beauty and luxury. The beaches are among the best in Sardinia, with clear sea waters and fine sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy the “lux” of the exclusive beach clubs or spend some time in a secluded paradise, Costa Smeralda is where luxury and nature meet. There are also plenty of opportunities for boating, diving, and hiking throughout the coast.
For a truly unique experience in Sardinia, Costa Smeralda is the place to be. With stunning landscapes, luxury hotels, and natural beauty, there’s something for everyone. Would you like to visit the most famous towns on the coast as well as explore some hidden gems? Be sure to look at this organised group trip to Northern Sardinia, which allows you to visit Costa Smeralda like a local.
Road Trip Through Inland Villages: Sardinia Beyond the Coast
For those who want to join an off-the-beaten-path holiday in Sardinia, the inland villages of the island provide a more authentic and slower way of life. Towns such as Bosa, famous for its colourful buildings along a river, and Orgosolo, well-known for vibrant murals, are a world away from the glamour of the coast. This is where you’ll find the heart of Sardinia’s slow food movement, with local markets, trattorias, and vineyards that offer a true taste of the island.
Driving through these towns is a beautiful way to experience the other side of the island, a side that is charming and alluring. The warm welcome from locals and the views of the surrounding natural landscapes will make it a holiday to remember. Villages such as Mamoiada, famous for its traditional Carnival masks, or Galtellì, with its charming rustic tones, are a real insight into Sardinian traditions. Give yourself a break from the crowded beaches and enjoy the hidden spots of the island. The laid-back lifestyle, the delicious cuisine, and the relaxed ambiance will make your trip memorable because this is one of the best things to do and see in Sardinia.
Why Sardinia Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Wishlist
Sardinia isn’t just beaches; it’s an island with a lot to offer to every traveller. You don’t need to ask yourself what to see in Sardinia; just relax on beautiful beaches, hike en route to the incredible gorges, or visit the ancient ruins scattered in the region. There is always something to do here. Although it’s easy to see why many people head straight to the islands to soak up the coastline, it’s worth taking your time and exploring what the island has to offer. Explore the island with a local guide and get to know the heart of Sardinia away from the crowds.
Ready to uncover the hidden gems of the island? Join an organised group trip to Southern Sardinia and experience Italy’s most underrated paradise with expert guides and new friends. With an expert guide, a ready-made itinerary, and the opportunity to meet new friends, group trips are the easiest way to discover Sardinia’s hidden world. It works even better if you stay long because you have an opportunity to get a look and feel of the island in its entirety. There’s no place like Southern Sardinia with an experienced guide to help navigate Italy’s best-kept secret and trail some paths you’ve never wandered before.
