Are you planning a 7 day road trip around the beautiful island of Sardinia but don’t know where to start? Well, you’re in luck because in this post I’m going to give you my complete guide to road tripping around Sardinia based on my own epic experience.
Getting your wheels: renting a car in Sardinia
The first thing you’ll need for a Sardinia road trip is a set of wheels. While public transportation exists, the best way to see all the island has to offer in just 7 days is by car.
I’d recommend renting an economy car which allows you flexibility to go off the beaten path while keeping costs low. According to rental companies on the island, small cars like Fiat Pandas can be rented for around $30 USD per day. If your trip is for 7 days, that puts the total car rental cost at around $210 USD – not bad!
Recommended: The Best Car Rental in Sardinia
Day 1: Cagliari + southern beaches
Start your trip in Cagliari, Sardinia’s largest city and home to an amazing historic center, museums, and delicious food. Take a morning to wander the Castello neighborhood’snarrow medieval streets. Then grab an al fresco seafood lunch at the Marina harbor. In the afternoon, head south along the coast to explore some of the island’s most magnificent beaches.
My top picks are Porto Pino with its sweeping dunes and crystal waters, and the white quartz sands of Spiaggia di Tuerredda. End the day with a stroll in the laidback surf town of Chia.
Day 2: Nuoro + east coast
On your second day, drive inland through rugged mountains to Nuoro, birthplace of Grazia Deledda, the only Italian woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. Pop into the Museo Deleddiano to learn about her life. As you continue east, stop at the Nuraghe Seruci, a mysterious Bronze Age megalithic site built circa 1500 BC. Further along the coast, you’ll find the idyllic beaches of Cala Gonone with its hidden coves tucked beneath limestone cliffs. End your day in the medieval town of Bosa overlooking the Temo river.
Day 3: Alghero + Capo Caccia
Day 3 takes you to Alghero, a picturesque port-town filled with sunny piazzas, quaint shops, and delicious gelato. Take some time to relax on Alghero’s beaches and admire the pastel-colored houses. In the afternoon, head north to stunning Capo Caccia where you can visit the Grotta di Nettuno, an enchanting sea cave accessible by taking 654 steps down the sheer cliffside. The views from inside the caves over the emerald waters are absolutely unforgettable.
Day 4: Explore La Maddalena
One of the best things about having a car in Sardinia is the ability to take a ferry to the nearby islands. On day 4, drive up to Palau to catch the ferry to La Maddalena island. Wander the sleepy port town of La Maddalena, then spend the rest of your day beach hopping along La Maddalena’s coastline of secluded coves. Stop for a seafood lunch at one of the thatched roof restaurants overlooking the sea before taking the evening ferry back.
Day 5: Supramonte mountains
Get ready for adventure on day 5 as you explore Sardinia’s wild Supramonte mountain range. Drive inland to the town of Dorgali, stopping at Codula di Luna’s enigmatic mushroom-shaped rock formations. Continue to the Gola Su Gorropu, Europe’s deepest gorge and a spectacular natural wonder. Go for a scenic hike along the gorge to admire the towering limestone walls. On your drive back west, stop at beachy Cala Luna for dinner as the sun sets.
Day 6: Oristano + Tharros
Journey back down Sardinia’s west coast on day 6 to discover the ancient ruins of Tharros, founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC. Wander through Corinthian columns and mosaic floors while admiring views of the Sinis peninsula. Continue south to the provincial capital Oristano, stopping at the Antiquarium Arborense museum to learn more about the region’s history and archeology. End your day relaxing in Oristano’s Piazza Eleonora d’Arborea.
Day 7: Monte Ferru + back to Cagliari
On your final day, head inland once more towards Monte Ferru, Sardinia’s second highest peak at nearly 3000 ft. Take the hike to the summit for panoramic views of the entire island. On the descent, check out remains of the ancient village of Vallicciola. Finish your Sardinia road trip by returning to Cagliari for a farewell seafood dinner in the Marina as the sun sets on an unforgettable 7 days on this magical Mediterranean island. Just remember to refuel your rental car before dropping it off!
Hope this gives you all the tips and inspiration you need to plan your own epic Sardinia road trip adventure. Let me know if you have any other questions! I’d be happy to help.