Think of an island where time just stops, the air is filled with sea air and myrtle scent, and each turn of the road leads to another spectacular Mediterranean-style landscape. Sardinia is known for its dramatic coastline and ancient ruins, but whilst the north has fame for being filled with holiday resorts and that wonderful Costa Smeralda, the south is a rougher, wilder experience. The golden sandy dunes stand in for champagne beach clubs, crumbling Phoenician ruins take the place of luxury boutiques, and soothing peacefulness supplants noise pollution. Southern Sardinia is raw, pristine, and alive with hidden jewels. This itinerary will take you to the most memorable places on your 7-day Sardinian road trip.
Day 1: Cagliari
Start your vacation in Cagliari, the island capital, where history meets contemporary. Walk around the Castello district, a medieval castle perched atop a hill with views of the city and the sea. Stop by the Bastione di Saint Remy, a classic terrace ideal for taking pictures, and visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria with its beautiful architecture. In the afternoon, take it easy at Poetto Beach, a white sandy beach just a few minutes from the city center. Finish the evening with dinner at a beachside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while the sun sets.
Day 2: Villasimius
Travel east to Villasimius, Sardinia’s best-known beach resort. With its white powdery sand and crystal water, this is the perfect destination for a seaside day of rest. Begin the day at Punta Molentis, a postcard beach with blue waters. Afternoon can be enjoyed at Spiaggia di Simius, where you can snorkel or go on a boat trip to visit hidden coves. For relaxed and fashionable lodging, Tanka Village in Sardegna offers easy access to the area’s best beaches and attractions.
Day 3: Costa Rei
Just a short drive from Villasimius, Costa Rei features some of Sardinia’s longest and most stunning beaches. The clear, shallow waters make it the perfect destination to swim and paddleboard. Start your morning at Scoglio di Peppino, a large granite outcrop of rock with surrounding pristine waters, ideal for snorkeling. Later, sunbathe and take a beach promenade on Spiaggia di Costa Rei, a golden strip of sand just right.
Day 4: Muravera
Drive north along the coast to the charming town of Muravera, renowned for its citrus groves and stunning looks. Among the must-see attractions is the Stagno di Colostrai, a peaceful lagoon where you can spot pink flamingos in their natural habitat. Visit neighboring Spiaggia di Feraxi, an unspoiled and wild beach that’s perfect for travelers who want some solitude, in the afternoon.
Day 5: Chia
No experience in southern Sardinia would be complete without a trip to Chia, famous for its dunes and incredible blue waters. Relax on sunbaked Su Giudeu Beach, one of Sardinia’s prettiest coastlines. For the adventurous sort, take a kayak or boat tour to discover hidden coves along the shore.
Day 6: Sant’Antioco and Carloforte
Spend a day island-hopping to Sant’Antioco and San Pietro, both off the southwest coast of Sardinia. Visit Sant’Antioco and stop at the Basilica di Sant’Antioco, an old church with catacombs under it. Travel on to Calasetta, a charming fishing village of whitewashed cottages and colorful harbor. Take a ferry to Carloforte, the only town on San Pietro Island, famous for its Ligurian heritage and incredible tuna specialties. Drive through the rough coast and don’t overlook La Bobba Beach, an undiscovered spot.
Day 7: Nora and Pula
Cap your vacation with history and relaxation in Pula, a lively town near Cagliari. Spend the morning in Nora, a Phoenician-Roman archaeological site with very preserved ruins spanning the sea. Wander through mosaics, temples, and a very ancient amphitheater that tells Sardinia’s history. Next, unwind in Spiaggia di Santa Margherita di Pula, a hidden beach perfect for one final swim before getting back to Cagliari.
Every day in Sardinia is an adventure. Discover one of Italy’s most spectacular destinations!
