Sardinia Travel Guide
About Sardinia
Glamorous, luxurious, and exclusive, but also profoundly authentic, spiritual, and rooted in age-old traditions, the heritage of a rich cultural and artistic past: Sardinia is a place full of contradictions and paradoxes, and a few days -or even weeks- are certainly not enough to fully experience everything this incredible island has to offer to its visitors.
With a total area of 24.090 km² (or 70 km long from North to South and 145 km wide from West to East), Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily and one of the twenty Italian regions. The island hosts five major cities, which are also the provincial capitals of the five administrative districts on the island, namely Cagliari (in the South), Olbia, Alghero, and Sassari (in the North), and Nuoro, and Oristano (in the Center), as well as several beach resorts, among which Villasimius, Iglesias, Porto Cervo, Stintino, San Teodoro, and Palau are the most popular among international and luxury travelers.
Contrasting -and complementing- this glamorous side of Sardinia is the unspoiled and wild nature of the Western Coast, featuring relatively less touristic but still incredible places such as Sulcis Iglesiente, Costa Verde, and Penisola del Sinis, the beautiful beaches of Orosei, Cala Luna, Cala Gonone, and Cala Goloritzé, all located on the East Coast and surrounded by the smells, colors, and sounds typical of the lush Mediterranean scrub, as well as the unspoiled mountain regions of the Gennargentu massif, with the 1,834 m of Punta La Marmora, the Supramonte di Oliena, with the 1,463 m of Punta Corrasi, and the Limbara mountain range, with the 1,362 m of Punta Sa Berritta.
Not to be forgotten are the small islands off the coast of Sardinia, first and foremost Asinara, La Maddalena (hosting the only inhabited Center in the La Maddalena archipelago), Caprera, Carloforte, Tavolara, Budelli, Sant’Antioco, and San Pietro, all of which are renowned worldwide for their rich biodiversity, rugged coastlines, and stellar beaches.
At the same time, a central role in defining the purest essence of the island is covered by the rich Sardinian enogastronomic tradition, centered around “poor” but wholesome dishes, such as culurgiones (a sort of ravioli filled with potatoes, pecorino cheese, and mint), pane carasau (the Sardinian flatbread), and seadas (a fried dessert made with a semolina dough filled with pecorino cheese and topped with honey), all rigorously accompanied by one of the most quintessential Sardinian beverages, mirto (a spirit made from myrtle berries).
Equally important are also the folkloristic traditions of the historical inland territories of Barbagia, Marmilla, Marghine, Mandrolisai, and Barigadu, and the iconic nuraghi, the ancient megalithic stone constructions developed during the Nuragic Age (between 1900 and 730 B.C), which can still be admired throughout the Sardinian countryside (among the best-preserved ones are the Nuraghe Arrubiu and the Nuragic Complexes of Palmavera and Barumini).
All in all, each part of Sardinia is a true microcosm in itself, defined by its peculiarities, customs, and “internal rules.” The beauty of the island lies precisely in the incredibly complex puzzle of landscapes, people, and cultures that harmoniously—and sometimes paradoxically—coexist on such a small territory bathed by the calm waters of the Mediterranean. This also explains why the island always attracts and fascinates different types of visitors, from families to backpackers, fun lovers, and eco-conscious luxury travelers!
9°C
Best Time To visit
Sardinia is a unique island surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea (specifically the Tyrrhenian Sea), located about 188 kilometers from the Italian mainland and 178 km from the Tunisian coasts. This peculiar position contributes to defining the favorable Mediterranean climate that blesses the island all year round, characterized by hot and dry Summers and mild Winters, especially compared to the rest of the Italian territory. This means that despite being considered a go-to summer travel destination, Sardinia is fantastic year-round!
Of course, the best time to visit the island vastly depends on the activities you want to engage in and the vibes you want to catch during your vacation. Therefore, here is a roundup of what you can expect from your Sardinian trip each season.
Spring months (from late March to the first half of June) are great if you are looking for an active vacation: the pleasantly mild temperatures (the daily average temperature is around 20-22 °C, or 68-71°F) create the perfect conditions for engaging in long walks and hikes along the beautiful Sardinian coast and in the countryside, and -with a little bit of luck- you can already enjoy a nice and rejuvenating swim in the Mediterranean Sea, especially towards the end of the season. Plus, the island is in full bloom, with expanses of kaleidoscopic wildflowers, poppies, and heathers coloring the wild Sardinian countryside. Last but not least, the island is not stormed by the hordes of domestic and international tourists as happens during the peak Summer months (July and August).
If, instead, you want to plan a glamorous Sardinian beach vacation, our recommendation is to prefer the months at the beginning and end of the summer season (second half of June and September): this way, you will avoid the scorching heat typical of peak Summer months (the daily temperatures in Summer regularly exceed the 30°C, or 86°F). You will be able to relax and enjoy some privacy on one of the mesmerizing Sardinian beaches, first and foremost the dreamy Spiaggia di Sa Colonia (on the Chia coast) and the breathtaking Spiaggia Del Principe (on the Smeralda Coast).
On the other hand, Winter tourism in Sardinia still needs to be developed, but this does not mean that planning your trip to Sardinia during December and January would necessarily be a bad idea. Indeed, the weather is not as rigid as on the Italian mainland, with average daily temperatures of around 12-13° C (or 53-55°F), and you can have the opportunity to experience firsthand the vibrant and joyful Sardinian Christmas traditions. In addition, this is the perfect time for visiting the countless museums and cultural and historical sites scattered throughout the island. However, some restaurants and luxury resorts might close during the off-season months.
Over all, there is no right or wrong time to visit this incredible island: it all comes down to your vacation idea and the vibes you are looking for!
What to expect
today survives in traditional protective amulets (kokkos), age-old rituals, and ceremonies, such as the worship of water and the ritual devotion to the Nuragic civilization. Last but not least is the wind: an ever-present element that never ceases to bring some relief during the scorching hot Sardinian summer days.
Poetic descriptions aside, Sardinia has truly something to offer to everyone. Luxury travelers can find here some of the most lavish 5-star eco-hotels and resorts in Europe, such as the Is Cheas Wine & Boutique Farm, a spectacular boutique hotel located in the countryside of the beautiful Sinis Peninsula (on the west coast of Sardinia) and surrounded by vineyards, herb gardens, and horse pastures, or the Cascioni Eco Retreat, an intimate eco-luxury hotel dedicated to wellness and relaxation, immersed in the natural reserve of the Arzachena (Sassari), and located a stone’s throw from the hypnotic blue of the waters of the Costa Smeralda beaches.
At the same time, wine and food lovers can take full advantage of the rich Sardinian enogastronomic tradition, comprising both excellent sea and land dishes, such as seadas, culurgiones, and pane guttiau, as well as noteworthy natural and organic wines, while those seeking for a more active vacation will find their bread and butter in the plethora of water sports that can be performed in the limpid waters of the Mediterranean Sea, from scuba diving to surfing and paddle boarding. Of course, let’s remember the countless hiking trails running along the Western and Eastern coasts and climbing up to the top of Sardinia’s highest mountains, including the Gennargentu massif and the Punta la Marmora.
Last but not least, adventure seekers and backpackers can make all their wishes come true with a Sardinia Coast-to-Coast tour. Indeed, the island counts more than 897 kilometers of coastline, hundreds of mesmerizing beaches, and pristine expanses, allowing the possibility for organizing several unforgettable coast-to-coast itineraries, such as that connecting Olbia to Oristano and passing from Alghero, Stintino, and Santa Terresa di Gallura, or the Olbia to Villasimius tour, closely touching some of the best beaches in the island, including Arbatax and Cala Gonone. Plus, the sunsets on this side of the island will be remembered!
Whatever your ideal vacation is, booking a trip to Sardinia comes with considerable risk: it is almost impossible not to feel the urge to come back and discover more of this incredible land made of mesmerizing candid beaches, hypnotic waters, scrumptious traditional food, and age-old rituals and traditions. After all, a couple of days -or even weeks- are certainly not enough to experience the island to the fullest!
Earth, fire, wind, and water: what better way to describe this extremely diverse and variegated island than through the four natural elements that dominate its spectacular landscapes? The earth stands for the wild and primarily unspoiled countryside of the Western coast of Sardinia, the water for the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea bathing the mesmerizing beaches of Costa Chia, Costa Rei, and Costa Smeralda. At the same time, the fire perfectly encapsulates the mystical and spiritual side of the island, which still . . . .
Things to know
- Here is everything you need to know when planning your trip to Sardinia:
- Language: The official language of Sardinia is Italian. At the same time, several variants of the Sardinian dialect (which can be further divided into two main sub-groups, dialetto logudorese, spoken in the northern part of the island, and dialetto campidanese, spoken in the southern provinces of Sardinia) are commonly spoken by the local population (Sardi). At the same time, English is widely spoken -or at . . . .
least understood- by workers in the tourist industry.
- Common Sayings: Here are a couple of useful Italian sayings that will help you get by in everyday situations.
- Good Morning – Buongiorno
- Good Afternoon – Buonasera
- Good Night – Buonanotte
- Please – Per favore
- Thanks – Grazie
- How are you? – Come stai?
- I’m fine, thanks! – Tutto bene, grazie!
- Nice to meet you – Piacere di conoscerti
- What’s your name? – Come ti chiami?
- My name is Valerio – Il mio nome è Valerio
- Where are you from? – Da dove vieni?/Di dove sei?
- Do you speak English? – Parli inglese?
- A table for two please – Un tavolo per due, per favore
- Enjoy your meal – Buon appetito!
- The bill please – Il conto, per favore
- That was delicious! – Era buonissimo!
- Time Zone: Sardinia is on Central European Time (CET), which is six hours ahead of New York (EST) and one hour ahead of London (GMT).
- Currency: Italy belongs to the so-called “Eurozone,” which means that the currency in Sardinia is the Euro (EUR). Although credit cards are accepted almost everywhere nowadays, we recommend always having cash on hand, especially for purchases in artisanal boutiques, food markets, and small shops.
- Credit Cards: Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Maestro) are generally accepted in most restaurants and shops. However, small retailers or food stalls may not accept card payments, especially outside the most touristic areas. To avoid unpleasant situations, we suggest always keeping some cash at hand.
- Plugs + Voltage: Sardinia electrical outlets use plug types L (with two round pins and a round grounding pin between them) and F (with two round pins and two earth clips on the side). They operate on a 230V supply voltage and a frequency of 50Hz.
- Airports: Three are the major airports on the island, operating both domestic and international flights: Aeroporto di Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB) and Aeroporto di Alghero-Fertilia “Riviera del Corallo” (AHO), both located on the northern part of the island, just a few kilometers away from two of the major urban centers in Sardinia, Olbia and Alghero, and Aeroporto di Cagliari-Elmas (CAG), located 7km northwest of Cagliari, in the southern part of the island.
- Vegetarian and vegan food: Despite being a relatively small island detached from the mainland, Sardinia boasts incredible vegan and vegetarian restaurants and cafes. Among them are Sesamo e Mirto, a cozy and welcoming vegan home restaurant located in Olmedo (14 km away from Alghero), Cavò Bistrot, one of the most renowned plant-based and organic restaurants in Cagliari, featuring an unforgettable “Cashew e Pepe” (vegan cacio e pepe pasta), as well as delicious cocktails and organic wines, and Birdi, a small Bottega with kitchen located in the heart of the Cagliari Marina, where you can “rediscover the simplicity and authenticity of fruits and vegetables.” In addition, most restaurants, especially in the most touristic areas, offer at least a couple of plant-based options -or easily “veganizable” dishes.
how to get around
With a total area of 24.090 km² (or 70 km long from North to South and 145 km wide from West to East), Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily and before Cyprus. This means it takes around two hours to drive from Olbia in the North to Cagliari in the South and a little less than 2 hours from Oristano on the West Coast to Tortoli on the East Coast.
Luckily, several quick ways exist to move from one part of the island to another and explore its significant resorts. Among them are renting a car or a scooter, taking advantage of the efficient public transport system, and walking. Let’s look at each of these options in more detail.
- Renting a car – Renting a car is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to explore Sardinia, as -contrary to public buses- it allows you to freely travel from one major resort on the island to the other without having to stick to a set timetable (or having to wait for delays). In addition, moving around by car is quite straightforward, as three main arterial roads cross the island: the SS 131, a fast dual carriageway that connects Cagliari to Sassari, and Porto Torres, the SS 125 that cuts the island from East to West at the height of Oristano, and the SS 130 connecting Oristano to Cagliari. Lastly, car rentals are very popular around the island, especially around the main airports (Cagliari, Alghero, and Olbia) and major resorts, which generally offer free transfer services from the airport and back. We advise booking the car in advance, especially if you are traveling to Sardinia during peak season month, and ensuring you have an international driving license.
- Renting a scooter – Renting a scooter has advantages similar to renting a car. Still, it is way easier to find a parking spot, especially near the most popular beaches and clubs. In addition, scooters allow you to reach secret coves and bays that would otherwise be inaccessible by car and to move more easily inside and around Sardinia’s biggest cities, which tend to be quite trafficked, especially during peak hours. Again, our advice is to book your scooter in advance and ensure you are familiar with driving a two-wheeled vehicle before deciding to hit the road with your newly rented scooter.
- Public transport system – Taking advantage of the efficient public transport system -including both urban and intercity buses and regional trains- is the most cost-effective way to travel around the island and inside the major cities. Five are the major bus companies operating regular urban routes inside the five major cities of the island (Cagliari -CTM, Oristano – ARST TPL, Sassari -ATP Azienda Trasporti Pubblici Sassari, Nuoro – A.T.P. Azienda Trasporti Pubblici Nuoro, and Olbia, ASPO Trasporto Pubblico Olbia). At the same time, the Azienda Regionale Sarda Trasporti, or ARST, is the main regional bus company, traveling long-distance intercity routes between Cagliari, Oristano, Sassari, Nuoro, and Olbia. Check out the Azienda Regionale Sarda Trasporti website for more information about the bus lines and timetables. http://www.arst.sardegna.it/index.html On the other hand, regional trains are operated by both Trenitalia and ARST.
- Ferries – Ferries are recommended if you want to organize a day trip to one of the wonderful small islands off the coast of Sardinia, such as Carloforte, La Maddalena, Asinara, or Tavolara. Maritime companies and other private operators operate daily routes throughout the year.
- Cruising around by bike – Cruising around by bike is a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the major urban centers on the island and reach some of its incredible beaches without worrying too much about finding a parking spot. In addition, more than 1,150 kilometers of bicycle paths are scattered throughout the region, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of them! If you don’t have your bike with you (as is probably the case), you will find numerous bike rentals in all the major towns on the island, with the possibility of taking part in organized bike tours.
- Walking – The last way to move around the island -and probably the most straightforward- is by foot. This is particularly recommended when visiting the historical Center of the major cities and beach resorts on the island, as they are all generally quite small, and it’s a true pleasure for your eye and soul to get lost in the colors, smells, and sounds of their backends. Plus, a great way to embrace the more naturalistic side of the island is to walk along one of the countless trails scattered throughout the Sardinian coast and countryside. Here are some of the best trekking routes and hikes on the island: https://www.komoot.com/guide/781/hiking-in-sardinia
Overall, there are many convenient and eco-friendly options for moving around the island and inside its significant cities: all you have to do is choose those that best suit your needs and travel plans.
- Subway: Kyoto’s subway system is not as extensive as Tokyo’s, but it is still a fast and efficient way to get around. It is particularly useful for traveling longer distances or avoiding rush hour traffic.
- Bicycle: Kyoto is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Japan, with dedicated bike lanes and rental stations throughout the city. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also allows you to explore the city at your own pace while getting some exercise.
- Bus: Kyoto’s extensive bus network is a convenient way to travel around the city. You can easily reach your destination with various routes and frequent service while enjoying the scenery.
No matter how you choose to get around Kyoto, be sure to take advantage of the city’s eco-friendly and sustainable transportation options. From cycling to walking, plenty of ways exist to explore Kyoto while minimizing your environmental impact.
Where to stay
SP 59 bis, 07021 Arzachena SS, Italy
A luxurious eco-retreat located in the heart of Gallura (in the northeastern part of Sardinia), “the land of granite and cork trees, of starry nights and breezes redolent of myrtle . . . .
and sea salt,” as poetically described on the Cascioni website. The retreat is a true oasis of peace and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the most popular beach resorts on the island and boasts 15 exclusive and airy suites, each with its porch, garden, and small private swimming pool. Great attention is also paid to the interiors, and an homage to natural elements and Sardinian peasant culture is paid through light stone, hand-made terracotta, cork, and rustic textiles. The icing on the cake is the exclusive Mediterranea Spa, with services inspired by Sardinian flora, such as the regenerating Extra Virgin Olive Oil Ritual and the soothing Green Gold Ritual, both of which are performed using precious botanical extracts, such as myrtle extracts, extra virgin olive oil, and honey, all of which are directly produced inside the estate.
- Hotel
Località Is Cheas, 09070 San Vero Milis OR, Italy
An exclusive Boutique & Wine hotel immersed in the vineyards of San Vero Milis (Oristano), where traditional Sardinian enogastronomic culture meets state-of-the-art . . . .
facilities and all the comforts you need for an unforgettable vacation. All the suites are hosted inside the Pinnettas, i.e., Sardinian typical accommodation, all designed thinking about the wellbeing of our guests and made with local and environmentally friendly materials, such as wood for the vault, branches for the roof, and Sardinian sheep wool for thermal and acoustic insulation. Each suite also boasts a private heated swimming pool and a small garden where you can relax, admire the starry sky, or just be. The highlight of Is Cheas is the Farm, ten hectares of land dedicated to cultivating organic and seasonal vegetables, fruits, aromatic herbs, and grapes, which are then used to produce the sophisticated dishes served by the upscale in-house Is Cheas Restaurant.
- Hotel
Località su Gologone, 08025 Oliena NU, Italy
Experience the wildest, most authentic side of Sardinia at Su Golgone, a self-proclaimed “experience hotel” located in the stunning Barbagia, an unspoiled . . . .
mountainous region in central Sardinia that stretches along the flanks of the Gennargentu massif and still deeply rooted in age-old traditions, rituals, and superstitions. Seventy are the rooms, of which nine are spacious and lavish suites, all carefully decorated using colorful Sardinian textiles and materials, such as wood, basalt, and cork. Cooking classes, wine tastings, scrumptious Sardinian dinners (rigorously served in the enchanting herb garden), movie nights, art itineraries, and unforgettable aperitivi sotto le stelle (“aperitifs under the stars”) organized in the Terrace of Dreams and Wishes, are only some of the unforgettable experiences offered by Su Golgone, surely not your traditional hotel.
- Hotel
Via Cala Capra, 07020 Capo D’orso SS, Italy
A 5-star grand luxe hotel nestled in one of the most exclusive bays of North Sardinia, Cala Capra (near Palau), and overlooking the hypnotic blue waters of Costa Smeralda, . . . .
with the mesmerizing island of Caprera just a few nautical miles away. The hotel boasts 86 romantic and airy rooms, including 20 newly renovated Junior Suites and 20 prestigious Executive and Cardinal Junior Suites, all drenched in elegance and refinement and equipped with state-of-the-art furniture and all the amenities you need for a premium vacation. Unforgettable is also the L’Incantu Thalasso Wellness Centre & SPA. In this unique outdoor wellness center, you can treat yourself to deeply rejuvenating and relaxing sensory experiences and Thalasso baths while enjoying a breathtaking view over the white sandy beaches of Palau.
- Hotel
Viale dei Fenicotteri, 52, 09010 Domus de Maria SU, Italy
With a privileged position overlooking the stunning fine sandy beaches of Chia Bay and the nearby turquoise Laguna (just an hour away from Cagliari, on the Southern . . . .
part of the island), Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia boasts 107 modern and spacious rooms, catering to a wide variety of guests and their particular needs. Four are the cafes and restaurants hosted inside the hotel complex (La Terrazza, Sa Mesa, Bioaquam, Bollicine Bar), all offering a wide variety of refined and wholesome dishes made with the island’s freshest seasonal and organic ingredients. For a memorable experience, enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at the Conrad Spa, an oasis of peace and relaxation surrounded by lush greenery and the intoxicating scents of mastic, juniper, and myrtle trees.
- Hotel
S.S. 195, Km. 39.600, 09010 Pula CA, Italy
A 5-star resort recently awarded the prestigious title of “World’s Leading Green Resorts” and comprises ten incredible luxury hotels and suites, some of which have direct
access to the stellar Capo Spartivento beaches (Cagliari). In contrast, others are fully immersed in luxuriant tropical gardens and Mediterranean bushes. Incredible is also the gastronomic offering, with a total of 19 gourmet restaurants, wholesome cafes, and glamorous bars, including the renowned Belvedere Restaurant, featuring sublime dishes signed by chef Massimiliano Mascia, winner of 2 Michelin stars and prepared with fresh fruits and veggies plucked directly from the resort’s garden.
- Hotel
Where to EAT + DRINK
Localita Baia de Bahas SNC Golfo di Marinella, 07020, Golfo Aranci, Sardinia Italy
In the picturesque setting of Baia de Bahas (Golfo Aranci) is Il Segreto, a terrace by the sea where you can enjoy some of the best dishes of the Mediterranean tradition, . . . .
from wood-fire oven pizzas to seafood spaghetti, fresh tuna filet, and octopus salad, all made with seasonal, organic, and as most as possible locally-sourced ingredients. Several vegan and vegetarian options are included in the menu. Il Segreto offers an incredible location and top-notch dishes for an unforgettable experience.
- Restaurant
Localita Pulicinu, 07021 Baia Sardinia, Arzachena, Sardinia Italy
An unbelievable position overlooking the crystal clear beaches of Costa Smeralda, great attention to the choice of the best local and organic ingredients, and a familiar . . . .
yet sophisticated atmosphere make La Rocca a must-go when visiting Baja Sardinia. The food chart is meticulously curated and features incredible seafood and meat dishes from the Sardinian tradition, including porcetto (spit-roast piglet) and aragosta sarda (grilled lobster), all of which are masterfully paired with the best natural and regional wines. The pizzas are highly recommended, with the possibility of opting for gluten-free or multigrain dough.
- Restaurant
Via Monte Ladu, 36, 07026 Porto Rotondo SS, Italy
Born from the intuition of Michelin-starred chef Claudio Melis, Pasigà is the first self-proclaimed ethical and sustainable “bistronomic” restaurant in the Porto Rotondo area. . . . .
Pasigà offers a fresh, colorful cuisine in which local and traditional products are reinterpreted in new and creative ways, with the final aim of bringing the most authentic soul of the island to the plate. The food chart features both a 4-course and 7-course tasting experiences, as well as an a la carte menu with the chef’s signature dishes, such as “creste” pasta with mushrooms, pecorino cheese, fava beans, and black truffle, or sea bass with lentil salad and Tortoli Oyster sauce. All the dishes can be accompanied by an exceptional selection of natural wines from the best vineyards in the region.
- Restaurant
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 210, 09123 Cagliari CA, Italy
Nourish your mind, soul, and body at Gintilla, a 100% vegan and bio-certified restaurant located a stone’s throw from the botanical gardens of Cagliari. At Gintilla, deep . . . .
care for the environment and passion for human wellbeing are perfectly transposed in the food chart, which changes regularly according to the rhythms of nature. Accompanying the seasonal menu are some of Gingilla’s evergreen dishes, such as the zesty raw beet ravioli stuffed with macadamia cream on a melon sauce and the comforting tortelloni with spirulina stuffed with potatoes and truffle cheese on a bed of butter and sage. Noteworthy is also the dessert chart, featuring an incredible revisitation of the apple strudel using traditional Sardinian carasau bread instead of the classic puff pastry, as well as a decadent chocolate cake with a dark heart and homemade ice cream.
- Restaurant
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 14, 09124 Cagliari CA, Italy
Innovation and tradition meet at Cavò Bistrot, a cozy plant-based restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of Cagliari’s historical Center. All the dishes on the menu are . . . .
impeccably executed and made with 100% cruelty-free and mostly organic ingredients. Highly recommended are the creamy “Cashew e Pepe,” a revisitation of the timeless Cacio e Pepe, and the “Bloody Roast Beet,” a beet, coconut, and apple carpaccio, served in/WITH a bed of arugula, lemon compote, and roasted hazelnuts. The selection of organic, low-intervention wines and the dessert chart featuring a decadent Golden Dust (Crème brûlée) enriched with saffron, vanilla, almond cookie, and cocoa is noteworthy.
- Restaurant
Via Funtana, 6, 07040 Olmedo SS, Italy
The first vegan home restaurant in Sardinia -one of the first in the Italian peninsula- was born from Daniele and Lorena’s passion for conviviality, animals, and food. Sesamo e Mirto . . . .
offers incredibly curated, visually appealing, and delectable dishes, with a menu that changes every month according to the season’s ingredients and the two chefs’ creative flair. Huge emphasis is also placed on sustainable food, translating into a predilection for local, organic, and zero-waste ingredients. Since this is an occasional activity, reservations must be made in advance.
- vegan
Via Lodovico Baylle, 111, 09124 Cagliari CA, Italy
A small Bottega is open for lunch and dinner in the heart of the Cagliari Marina (port area), where you can rediscover the simplicity and authenticity of fruits and vegetables . . . .
and deeply nourish your body with wholesome yet delicious dishes. The food chart features comforting soups, light insalata di riso, colorful Buddha bowls, and mouthwatering pasta dishes, all of which are either vegan or vegetarian and made exclusively with fresh, local, and mostly organic ingredients, with a predilection for bright, colorful fruits and veggies. The couscous with roasted veggies and the black rice with walnuts and arugula pesto are highly recommended.
- vegan
Via Sa Conca 12, 07021 Porto Cervo, Italy
Be. O FOOD (with “be” standing for being in the moment and “O” symbolizing the origin of all life) is the first 100% plant-based and organic takeaway restaurant in . . . .
Northern Sardinia (Porto Cervo). Its noteworthy food chart features everything from nourishing bowls and salads to decadent refined-sugar-free desserts and smoothies. Deep care for the environment is also shown in using plastic-free, compostable packaging and a non-motorized drive-through service.
- Restaurant
SP25, 07037 Sorso SS, Italy
A small vegan takeaway restaurant offers scrumptious on-the-go meals, nourishing salads, and decadent desserts. The menu changes daily according to the produce . . . .
in season, and all the ingredients are locally sourced and mostly organic. The dishes must be ordered by 9.30 a.m. on the desired day, with a convenient delivery service available upon reservation.
- vegan
Organic Tea and coffee
Viale Aldo Moro, 130, 07026 Olbia SS, Italy
Senso Unico, the first healthy bar in Olbia, offers nourishing breakfast, scrumptious lunches, and the best organic Coffee in town. The menu also features several plant-based . . .
options, from fresh juices and smoothie bowls to salads and vegan croissants. Similarly, all the specialty coffees and lattes can be prepared with organic plant-based milk. Senso Unico is open Monday through Saturday, from 7am to 11pm
- coffee
Ex SS 131 km 7 Ex Ss 131 km 7, località Su Moriscau, 500, 09028 Sestu CA, Italy
A cozy bakery selling sweet and salty products, from cakes to croissants, small patisserie, fresh salads, and toasts, all made with a predilection for organic, seasonal ingredients. . . . .
You will also find vegan cakes and small treats, including scrumptious banana bread, cheesecakes, and bruschetta. All in all, Coccodi is one of the best spots in Cagliari for informal aperitivos and tea breaks.
- Bakery
Largo Ittiri 9, 07100, Sassari, Sardinia Italy
The first juice and coffee bar in the heart of Sassari is located a stone’s throw from the central Piazza Italia. All the juices and smoothies are freshly prepared with locally sourced, seasonal, . . . .
and mostly organic fruits and veggies. There is also a selection of Buddha Bowls and Hot Bowls, which includes several vegan options, such as the “Vegan Is Hot” Bowl, made with a base of pearl spelt and tofu and topped with edamame, mango, and cashews. Greenland is open every day from 11 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.
- coffee
Organic WINE
Piazza Azzurra, 07021 Porto Cervo SS, Italy
With two shops on the island (Porto Cervo and Olbia), In Vino Veritas is one of the most prestigious and well-stocked enotecas (wine shop) on the island and features a . . . .
wide array of excellent local and organic Sardinian wines, including low-intervention Cannonau and Vermentino. With a beautiful view over the exclusive Marina (port area), the Porto Cervo shop is the place for an informal get-together with your friends. In contrast, the Olbia shop in the heart of the historical Center is great for relaxing after-dinner drinks. All the wines are accompanied by scrumptious charcuterie boards loaded with local cured meats, cheeses, pickled veggies, and jams.
- Mall
Via Salvatore Farina, 22A, 09127 Cagliari CA, Italy
On the picturesque waterfront of Cagliari is Cronta Enoteca, there lies a cozy wine shop selling the best wines from small, local producers. The shop also has a good selection . . . .
of organic, biodynamic bottles, such as the Contino Mamaioa Cannonau and Olianas Vermentino. Cronta Enoteca is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Store
Via Salvatore Farina, 22A, 09127 Cagliari CA, Italy
Sa Binuteca is a cozy, family-owned wine bar and shop where you can savor some of the best organic, biodynamic, and natural wines and beers from independent Sardinian . . . .
producers. These are rigorously accompanied by mouthwatering charcuterie boards featuring wholesome local products, such as organic pickles, cheeses, and cured meats. Sa Binuteca is located via Salvatore Farina, a stone’s throw from the Basilica di San Saturnino, one of the most popular attractions in Cagliari.
- shop
Organic Markets
Via Libio 1, Via Mare, 14, 07046 Porto Torres SS, Italy
In the heart of Porto Torres (Sassari) is Naturamea, a small eco-friendly shop selling a wide variety of natural and bio-certified makeup products, body oils, soaps, creams, and . . . .
detergents, as well as organic herbal teas and essential oils. Naturamea is open Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- shop
Via Giudice Chiano, 24, 09131 Cagliari CA, Italy
An eco-conscious profumeria offering natural and certified eco-bio cosmetics, from shampoos to makeup, body oils, and skincare products, all made with natural, organic, and . . . .
The store operates Monday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.
- Store
Viale Razzoli, 22, 07020 Palau SS, Italy
(Bio Market Enoteca)
Located in the vibrant town of Palau (Olbia), Gusto Mediterraneo is a one-of-a-kind shop offering an incredible selection of traditional Sardinian and organic products, . . . .
most of which are also vegan-friendly, from fresh fruits and vegetables to whole grain pasta and baked goods, to locally-sourced jams, honey, pickles, spices, and condiments, all strictly bio-certified. Notably, there is a selection of natural and organic beverages, including typical Sardinian wines such as Cannonau or Vermentino di Gallura.
- shop
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 353, 09123 Cagliari CA, Italy
Opened in April 2023, Sardegna Veg is the first 100% vegan shop on the island. It sells a wide array of plant-based cheeses, spreads, tofu, flours, and sweet treats, most of which . . . .
are also organic. Sardegna Veg is located in Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, in the heart of the historical center of Cagliari.
- shop
Via Roma, 12, 07026 Olbia SS, Italy
Natura Si is one of Italy’s most popular health food shop chains with eight stores on the island (four in Cagliari, one in Olbia, one in Alghero, one in Sassari, and one in Oristano). . . . .
Natura Si is a true paradise for all eco and wellness lovers; here one can find everything from organic fruit and veggies, bulk nuts and grains, vegan and cruelty-free makeup and skin care products, plant-based snacks, bio-certified jams, spreads, and sauces, and a little corner dedicated to freshly-made sourdough bread and baked goods.
- shop
Via Francesco Cocco Ortu,46, Cagliari, Italia
A project born in 2013 aims to collect and sell the best Sardinian products, with particular attention to those grown in organic and biodynamic agriculture and sourced from small, . . . .
independent producers. The result is an incredibly well-stocked online shop featuring decadent goat and sheep cheeses, jams, spreads, bulk beans and nuts, bio-certified flour, pasta, and, of course, also traditional Sardinian desserts, such as hazelnut nougat and amaretti. All Bio Gaia products can also be found in BioGaia box 41, a small food stall inside the Mercato di San Benedetto (Cagliari).
- shop
Via Giuseppe Manno, 9, 07100 Sassari SS, Italy
Vegan, vegetarian, and organic foods, natural supplements, phytotherapy remedies, herbal teas, still and sparkling organic wines, eco-bio cosmetics, and more: this is what . . . .
you can find at Fraula Bio, one of the most renowned eco-shops on the island. All the products can be purchased either at the Fraula Bio shop in the heart of charming Sassari (in the northwestern part of Sardinia) or in the online shop.
- shop
Via Fidia 25, Olbia, Italy
In the heart of Sassari is Madre Natura, an exceptionally well-assorted eco-shop selling various organic products, from fresh fruit and veggies to plant-based milk and cheese, . . . .
healthy snacks, natural supplements, kombuchas, and natural wines. All products are also available on the Madre Natura website.
- shop
Via Fidia 25, Olbia, Italy
Freshly harvested organic fruits and vegetables, freshly-made sourdough bread, scrumptious plant-based pastries, natural and low-intervention wines, organic soft drinks, . . . .
and vegan supplements are at the forefront of Bio Food Olbia, one of the most renowned eco-shops in Olbia. All products are also available in the online shop.
- shop
Wellness
Strada Provinciale 44, Km 1,2, Strada Provinciale 44, 14, 07041 Alghero SS, Italy
Hosted inside the prestigious Inghirios Wellness Resort (located in the countryside of Alghero), the Inghirios Spa is renowned for its holistic approach to beauty and wellness, which . . . .
translated into the use of natural elements, such as water, air, and heat, to generate deep psycho-physical well being and a state of relaxation. Here, you can treat yourself to various decontracting and sensory massages, Japanese skin treatments, and rejuvenating Turkish baths and saunas. The Inghrios Spa is open every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- activities
Via Serchio, 139, 09045 Quartu Sant’Elena CA
More than 2000 square meters dedicated to self-care and relaxation: this is Aqua Thalasso & Spa Sighientu, the in-house spa and wellness center of the Sighientu Resort, a luxurious . . . .
eco-hotel located in Quartu Sant’Elena, a few kilometers away from Cagliari. The Spa boasts many beauty and wellness treatments, including lymphatic drainage massages, facials, full body rituals, and the exclusive thalassotherapy experience, a salt concentration pool offering deep relaxation for the mind and body. The spa is allowed only by previous reservation and for those over 18 years old.
- activities
Località Foddini (Sardinia) Cardedu Italy 08040
Welcome to Elighes, the wellness oasis of the prestigious Experience Hotel Corte Bianca, named after the holm oaks that constitute the backdrop to this magical corner of Sardinia, nestled . . . .
between the spectacular Gala Gonone and Costa Rei (Nuoro). Holistic treatments and organic ingredients -among which are nourishing olive oil and soothing donkey milk- are at the forefront of the Spa offering, which features, among other things, an incredible Kneip path with four whirlpool stations, great for improving blood circulation and relieving all forms of mind and body stress, as well as emotional showers, hydrotherapy paths, and an exclusive Templum Mater Gratiae, an intimate pool filled hyper-concentrated solution of sea salts with a density greater than that of the Dead Sea, where you can feel embraced and cradled like in a mother’s womb and float in water in total freedom. The Spa is open to the public upon reservation.
- activities
What to Experience
Located on the Southern Coast of Sardinia, Italy.
With more than 150.000 inhabitants, the port city of Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia and one of its significant cultural and artistic centers. Cagliari is renowned all over the world . . . .
for its majestic medieval fortified district, the Castello, dominating the city from the above and hosting some of the incredible testimonies of the Aragonese and Sabaud dominations in the city, such as the Torre dell’Elefante, Torre di San Pancrazio e Torre dell’Aquila, in the past used to signal the entrances to the town respectively from the Northeastern, Western, and Southern borders, as well as the spectacular Bastione di Saint Remy, transformed at the end of the nineteenth century into a monumental staircase. Other must-sees include the eclectic Cattedrale di Santa Maria, the Monte Uprino Park, from which you can enjoy a stellar view all over the city and the neighboring beaches (including the mesmerizing Poetto beach) and the Pinacoteca Nazionale, with paintings by the most renowned Sardinian artists from the XVI to the XX century. Cagliari is also home to one of the three international airports on the island, the Aeroporto di Cagliari Elmas “Mario Mameli,” which makes this city a perfect starting point for visiting the mesmerizing coves and bays of Southern Sardinia, including the breathtaking Costa Rei and Chia beaches.
- activities
Located on the Northwest Coast of Sardinia, Italy
Known as the capital of the Riviera del Corallo for the vast presence of corals on the seabed of its beaches, Alghero is a true hidden gem, often neglected by the most popular . . . .
Sardinian travel routes. While ancient fortified walls, ramparts, and Gothic churches are the hallmark of the historical Center, the surroundings of the city are renowned for the spectacular Grotte del Nettuno (Nettuno caves), which can only be visited by boat departing from the Alghero harbor. Other popular attractions nearby Alghero include the Parco naturale regionale di Porto Conte, the Spiaggia la Pelosa, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia (access to the beach is restricted and must be booked in advance), and the ancient archiepiscopal city of Sassari. The city also hosts one of the three international airports on the island, the Aeroporto di Alghero-Fertilia.
- activities
Located on the Northeastern Coast of the Island of Sardinia, Italy
Vibrant, kaleidoscopic, and authentic: these vibes emanate from Olbia, the fourth city in Sardegna, nestled in a peaceful bay on the northeastern part of the island. The city hosts some . . . .
incredible testimonies of the foreign populations that have succeeded each other on the island: among them are the Punic fortified walls, the remains of the ancient Acquedotto Romano, the medieval Castello di Pedres, and the Gothic Chiesa di San Paolo. A must-see is the Nuraghe Riu Mulinu, a central place of worship on the island for the Nuragic civilization dating back to the XII century B.C. Olbia also hosts the Aeroporto Olbia Costa Smeralda, the central point of arrival for visiting the mesmerizing beaches of Porto Cervo, Golfo Aranci, and Porto Rotondo.
- activities
Located in the Northwestern Part of Sardinia, Italy
Located in the island’s northern part, close to the famous beach resorts of Santa Teresa di Gallura, Palau, Porto Cervo, and Porto Rotondo, Sassari is renowned for its rich and . . . .
diverse architectural and naturalistic heritage. Among the most popular attractions are the sumptuous Baroque churches, such as the Cattedrale di San Nicola, the Madonna del Rosario and Sant’Antonio Abate churches, and the Collegio dei Gesuiti, which later became the first public university of Sardinia, as well as the startling beaches of Platamona, Pelosa, and Pelosetta, bathed by one of the most crystal clear seas you will ever see in your life. It is also highly recommended to visit the Museo Nazionale Archeologico ed Etnografico G. A. Sanna, as it collects some remarkable artifacts of ancient Sardinian civilizations.
- activities
Located in the Central-eastern part of Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is much more than white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters; a trip to Nuoro will prove it! Located in the heart of the Monte Ortobene Valley, this small countryside . . . .
town will conquer you for its sumptuous neoclassical churches, for its museums -such as the MAN, collecting more than 200 works from Sardinian contemporary artists, and the Ethnographic Museum, where it is possible to admire traditional Sardinian clothes, jewelry, and musical instruments from the 19th century- and, lastly, for its millenary buildings, first and foremost the perfectly preserved Nuraghe Tanca Manca, belonging to the formative period of the Nuragic civilization (XIX century B.C.) and dominating the city from a privileged position, and the Complesso Nuragico di Noddule, one of the most renowned archaeological sites in Sardinia, located just a 20-minute drive away from the city center.
- activities
Sardinia, Italy
From North to South, Sardinia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, which have nothing to envy those in the Caribbean! Among them are the fine . . . .
Spiaggia del Principe (Costa Smeralda), bathed by hypnotic blu waters and surrounded by a lush Mediterranean scrub, the Spiaggia Rosa (pink beach) of Budelli (Arcipelago della Maddalena), which owes its unique color to a microorganism called Miniacina Miniacea, and the mesmerizing Chia beaches (on the southern part of the island). Standing out among these latter is the unspoiled Su Giudeu beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean for its wonderful sand and the crystal clear waters bathing it, surrounded by unspoiled white dunes and preceded by the majestic islet of Su Giudeu, which have made it the ideal setting for countless TV commercials, movies, and music videos.
- activities
shop TRAVEL products
Be ready for your next trip with our curated ‘must have’ travel products to make your travels more enjoyable.
