All you need to know about travelling to Sardinia

Beautiful coastlines, long sandy beaches with turquoise waters, footpaths and secluded coves... The island of Sardinia has everything you need for an idyllic holiday just a few hours from Switzerland. 

In this article, you'll discover:

- The main activities and cities to visit

- Practical travel tips: best times to travel, how to get there, accommodation, insurance...
Organising your stay in Sardinia

History and culture

There's more to Sardinia than its dream beaches! It's also marked by a thousand years of history, visible in the mysterious nuraghes, prehistoric stone towers unique in the Mediterranean. The island has seen many influences, including Phoenician, Roman, Aragonese and Savoyard, all of which have left their mark on local architecture, language and traditions.

Don't miss the island's living cultural traditions, including age-old carnivals (e.g. the Mamuthones de Mamoiada) and colorful religious festivals.

If you're looking for beautiful beaches and like to party at night, you should head north to the Emerald Coast. It's quite a touristy area though.

If you're more into nature and wild landscapes, go to the south of the island. A little less well-known and therefore less touristy, this part of Sardinia is just as beautiful and you'll find some great cultural and historical sites to visit (Nuraghes towards Cagliari).

Where to go in Sardinia?

If you're looking for beautiful beaches and like to party at night, you should head north to the Emerald Coast. It's quite a touristy region, though.

If you're more into nature and wild landscapes, go to the south of the island. A little less well known and therefore less touristy, this part of Sardinia is just as beautiful, and you'll find some fine cultural and historical sites to visit (Nuraghes towards Cagliari).

7-10 day itinerary - East coast and wild beaches

Here's an idea for a stress-free itinerary to explore the island:

Day 1-2: Arrival in Olbia - relax on the beach (La Cinta, Capo Coda Cavallo).
Days 3-5: Drive to Baunei - explore Cala Goloritzé, Cala Mariolu.
Days 6-7: Cala Gonone - boat cruise, Grotte del Bue Marino.
Day 8-9: Orgosolo & its street art - overnight in agriturismo.
Day 10: Return to Olbia via the inland coast.

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When should you go to Sardinia?

With its Mediterranean climate, Sardinia can be enjoyed all year round. For pleasant temperatures, opt for May-June and September-October, avoiding the summer months, which are very touristy and rather hot.

What to do in Sardinia

Enjoy nature on the island

Sardinia is an ideal island for nature lovers. Among other things, you can:

• Hike in the Supramonte or around the Gorropu canyon
• kayak or snorkeling in the coves of the Gulf of Orosei.
• rock climbin the Cala Gonone region.
• kitesurf on the west coast (Porto Pollo).
  
  

Visit its beautiful towns

Cagliari

Located in the south of the island, Cagliari's Mediterranean charm is a blend of history, culture and seaside.

• Castello district: perched historic center with cobblestone streets, panoramic views and ancient bastions.
• Santa Maria Cathedral: emblematic building that's a must-see.
• San Benedetto Market: one of Italy's largest covered markets, perfect for discovering local produce.
• Poetto Beach: long stretch of sand popular with locals, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
• National Archaeological Museum: immerse yourself in the island's Nuraghic and Roman history.

Olbia

Located in the northeast, Olbia is best known for its airport, but it's also a pleasant base for exploring the northern beaches.

• Basilica of San Simplicio: a charming 11th-century Romanesque church.
• Corso Umberto: a lively main thoroughfare, ideal for shopping or a drink.
• Porto Istana and Pittulongu: magnificent beaches just a few kilometers from the center.
• Boat excursions: departures to the islands of Tavolara and Molara for snorkeling trips.

Alghero

A fortified town in the north-west of the island, Alghero has a Spanish influence and a well-preserved heritage.

• Historic center: cobbled streets, ramparts, Baroque churches, Catalan ambience.
• Bousquet Promenade: ideal for admiring the sunset over the sea.
• Neptune's caves: accessible by boat or via a spectacular staircase cut into the cliff.
• Maria Pia beach: fine sand, turquoise water and pine forest backdrop.

San Teodoro

South of Olbia, San Teodoro is a popular destination for its idyllic beaches and festive summer atmosphere.

• La Cinta: a long white sandy beach bordered by crystal-clear water, perfect for families.
• San Teodoro Lagoon: a spot for watching pink flamingos.
• Capo Coda Cavallo: a protected area with paths, coves and breathtaking views of the islands.
   

How do I get to Sardinia from Switzerland?

Flying to Sardinia

By plane, you can land at one of Sardinia's 3 airports and reach Sardinia in 1h30 to 2h with direct flights: Cagliari Elmas, Olbia Costa Smeralda or Alghero Fertilia. There are also numerous connections from Switzerland and via low-cost airlines such as Easyjet, Ryanair and Vueling, depending on the season.

Taking a ferry to Sardinia

Ferries are a popular option for Swiss travellers, especially in summer, as they allow you to take your car, camper van or motorcycle with you, making it easier to get around once you're there.

By ferry, you can arrive at any of Sardinia's ports: Arbatax (east), Cagliari (south), Olbia (northeast), Porto Torres (northwest), Golfo Aranci (northeast), Santa Teresa di Gallura (north).

There are many companies offering this crossing: Moby Lines, Grimaldi Lines, Tirrenia and Corsica Sardinia Ferries.

It will take you between 6 and 12 hours to reach the island by ferry, depending on your port of departure and arrival. For greater comfort, we always recommend choosing a private cabin where you can lie down and sleep. Don't forget to book in advance for high-season trips!

Here's an idea of how to get to Sardinia by ferry from Switzerland:

1. Drive to Italy (5h-8h drive) via Milan to Genoa or Livorno, via Turin to Savona or via Bologna to Civitavecchia (south).

2. Take a ferry to Sardinia: Genoa to Olbia, Livorno to Olbia / Golfo Aranci, Savona to Porto Torres or Civitavecchia to Cagliari / Arbatax / Olbia.

Choosing to travel to Sardinia by ferry is a good way to travel without too many constraints, and with your own vehicle, you can also decide to discover a little of Italy on the road to complete your trip.

What are the means of transport in Sardinia?

The easiest way to visit Sardinia and get to remote areas is by car. If you hire a car directly from Sardinia, the prices are fairly high, so don't hesitate to take a ferry with your own car. The roads are rather narrow, so if possible take a small car to get around easily! 

>> Leave well insured in Sardinia. Calculate your travel insurance premium for free here <<

Where to sleep in Sardinia?

Relax in an all-inclusive hotel

If you're looking to make the most of your vacation without worrying about day-to-day organization, all-inclusive hotels are an excellent option. Sardinia offers a fine selection of establishments suitable for families, couples or groups of friends.

Choosing an all-inclusive package means simplicity, with all meals, drinks and activities provided on site; it also means you're in control of your budget, as there will be few unexpected expenses; and, of course, it's comfortable, ideal for family vacations without constraints.

The all-inclusive option can be flexible in some hotels, where you can choose half-board rather than full-board. This is ideal for those who want to explore the surrounding area and eat out during the day.

Here are a few suggestions for all-inclusive hotels on the island of Sardinia:

• Le Resort Valle dell'Erica Thalasso & Spa (Santa Teresa di Gallura)
  With its understated luxury, it's perfect for couples, with direct access to the beach, several on-site restaurants and a superb spa.
• Le Club Hotel Marina Beach (Orosei)
  This all-inclusive hotel is ideal for families, with entertainment, a lovely pool, beach access and generous buffets at every meal. 
• Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi (Villasimius)
  Here, you'll find a chic atmosphere, but with a kids' club, a lovely spa and, above all, a breathtaking sea view.
• Is Serenas Badesi Village (north of the island)
  This is a very large complex offering entertainment, a varied restaurant and its own private beach. Good value for money.

Don't forget to book early, as these establishments are very popular during the high summer season.

Enjoy nature while camping

If you're a nature-lover who loves freedom and the great outdoors, camping is an excellent way to discover Sardinia in a different way. The island offers a wide variety of campsites, from wilderness pitches to fully-equipped campsites with swimming pools, restaurants and direct access to the sea. You'll find family campsites with entertainment, a supermarket and comfortable mobile homes, as well as simpler campsites with tents and vans, and agricamp sites for a more local, eco-responsible experience.

Be careful when you travel, as many campsites close in the low season, between November and April. Find out beforehand to avoid unpleasant surprises on site!
 

Here are a few suggestions for well-placed campsites in Sardinia:

• Camping Village Baia Blu La Tortuga (Vignola Mare)
  This well-equipped campsite is located near Santa Teresa di Gallura and is ideal for families. 
• Camping Cala Gonone (east coast)
  Well placed for exploring the Gulf of Orosei. 
• Tiliguerta Glamping & Camping Village (Costa Rei)
  This is more of a "comfort" campsite, with bungalows and tents set beside a magnificent beach.
• Camping Capo Ferrato (Muravera)
  This is a small family campsite by the sea, with a warm, calm atmosphere.

Please note: wild camping is strictly regulated and will most often be forbidden, so choose official campsites or ask the owners for permission to set up on private land.

Sardinian gastronomic specialties

Sardinian cuisine is a journey in itself. If you're a gastronome or just a gourmet, here are a few must-try dishes:

• Porceddu: spit-roasted suckling pig.
• Culurgiones: ravioli stuffed with potatoes, mint and pecorino.
• Casu marzu: typical fermented cheese (try it if you're curious!).
• Seadas: cheese and honey dessert.
   

Accompany it all with a glass of Cannonau (red wine) or Vermentino (dry, fresh white).

If you're interested in gastronomic travel, read our article Take a culinary trip: 10 destinations for discovering new flavors.

Formalities for a trip to Sardinia

As an autonomous region with special status, Sardinia has administrative autonomy, but the formalities are the same as in Italy.

If you are coming to Sardinia for a maximum of 3 months and you are a Swiss national, your valid passport will suffice.

What insurance do I need to travel to Sardinia?

When you travel in Italy, including Sardinia, the European Health Insurance Card gives you the same access to public medical facilities as those insured locally. This card is normally found on the back of your compulsory insurance card. If this is not the case, check with your health insurance fund.

However, the EHIC does not replace travel insurance. Reimbursements will be very limited and it does not cover medical repatriation costs at all, for example. You will therefore have to pay out of your own pocket in the event of a problem.

Europ Assistance travel insurance

To ensure that you are reimbursed for your medical expenses in Sardinia and benefit from many other guarantees, consider taking out travel insurance. It covers you completely for all the unforeseen events that can occur on holiday: cancellation and interruption insurance, 24/7 medical assistance (emergency transport, repatriation), luggage insurance, unforeseen expenses, etc.

Find out more about our options here.

>> Leave well insured in Sardinia. Calculate your travel insurance premium for free here <<