Sardinia City Guides
Sardinia about 120 miles west of Italy and actually closer to North Africa, is the second largest Island in the med after Sicily. It’s easy to travel to with three main airports and six harbours where ferries from mainland Italy and France dock regularly. Each region has something unique to offer whether its mountains or beaches, meat or fish, glitzy or rustic the choices are varied… so the only question is where do I go?
The Island is split into 8 regional provinces( shown on the map on the left) four of which were created in 2005: Carbonia-Iglesias, Medio Campidano, Ogliastra and Olbia-Tempio while Oristano was established in 1974. Each of these provinces contain many cities and villages, each with their own identities, cultures, traditions and dialects. The majority population is concentrated in the provinces of Cagliari and Sassari.
Cagliari
Cagliari, the capital, and Sardinia’s largest city situated on the south coast of the island dates back to Roman times. It’s the main entry point for most tourists to the island. I has and atmospheric medieval center and impressive fortifications : Bastione San Remy and several Pisan towers, a beautiful harbour and an ancient cathedral. There are plenty of good bars and restaurants and it is an excellent base for seeing the whole south coast. From Cagliari you can reach the east and west coasts in about an hour. Cagliari has the largest indoor fishmarket in Italy and is well worth a visit.
Read more in our Cagliari Guide >>
Alghero
Located in the northwest coast of Sardinia, Alghero has a beautiful historical center with many Catalonian influences which is also evident in the cuisine. Alghero was a fortress town and parts of the old city walls remain intact. The main highlights of the town, are the brightly coloured domed cathedral, two palaces and a host of restaurants, shops and bars.
Read more in our Alghero Guide >>
Bosa
Bosa is a beautiful little medieval town situated on the west coast of Sardinia. Follow the breathtaking coastal road from Alghero for 44 kms and you will find this little jewel of a town. Filled with beautiful boutique bed and breakfasts and restaurants you will find a warm welcome awaiting you
Read more in our Bosa Guide >>
Olbia
The large port town of Olbia (population 41,000) is another of Sardinia’s major destinations and one of Sardinia’s oldest cities; it receives daily ferries from Italy and also has an airport. Although not as easy on the eye as Cagliari, the town does boast a rich history. There are many ancient attractions situated in its historical centre including the old town walls, Roman baths and a granite Romanesque church. The town also has many excellent Italian restaurants and several good bars and pubs, while the nearby resorts of the Costa Smeralda and Porto Rotondo are also a major draw.
Costa Smeralda
Sardinia’s main tourist base is the gorgeous northeastern stretch of coastline, known as the Costa Smeralda. There are loads of beautiful beaches and coves with crystal clear water. The Costa Smeralda is also frequented by the rich and famous so a fat wallet is needed. Although the scenery is spectacular many of the resorts and marinas are of recent construction giving the area a bit of a souless feel
Nuoro
Those who are interested in taking in some real Sardinian culture and outdoor activities should head for Nuoro, situated roughly in the centre of the island. Many traditions are still intact here and the locals still speak the original Sardo language as well as English. The town features an old quarter where highlights include the Ethnographic Museum, with its fantastic handicraft collections. Other destinations worth seeking out in this region of Sardinia include many ancient villages and the 3,300-foot summit of Monte Ortobene, which affords magnificent views.
Carloforte
Carloforte is a town on the little island of San Pietro name d after King Carlo Emanuele III and very different from the other areas of Sardinia. Its a picturesque town of pastel coloured town houses with balconies which run along the narrow streets,alleyways and stairs leading to the waterfront similar to Genoa
Carloforte Guide >>
Porto Cervo
Sardinia’s most expensive town and one for the celebs and international jet set, The areas main attraction are the idyllic nearby beaches,islands and designer shops