Sardinia Highlights Self-Drive

Upon arrival at Cagliari Airport, collect your hire car and drive to your hotel for check-in. Spend some time exploring Sardinia’s vibrant capital, where history, culture and striking landscapes combine to create a memorable experience. Begin in the historic Castello district, perched above the city. Wander its narrow, cobbled streets and visit Cagliari Cathedral, a remarkable 13th-century building with an intricately decorated interior. Be sure to stop at the Bastione di Saint Remy for panoramic views over the city and sea. We also include a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre, a significant archaeological site dating back to the 2nd century AD, where gladiatorial contests once took place. Nearby, the Orto Botanico offers a tranquil retreat with its diverse collection of Mediterranean and exotic plants. Descend to the lively Marina District, filled with shops, cafés and restaurants. Stroll along Via Roma, a bustling street lined with elegant arcades, and enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront eateries. Overnight in Cagliari.

After breakfast, we drive to Villasimius, a beautiful coastal town renowned for its pristine beaches and clear waters. We begin at Simius Beach, arriving early to enjoy the peaceful surroundings before it becomes busy. Here, we stroll along the soft white sand, swim in the turquoise sea and relax under the Sardinian sun. Next, we take a short drive to Porto Giunco, famous for its fine sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters—ideal for a leisurely swim or snorkelling. The beach is set against the backdrop of Notteri pond, home to a small population of flamingos. For lunch, we recommend visiting a local trattoria or seafood restaurant in Villasimius to sample Sardinian specialities such as culurgiones, fregola or fresh seafood dishes. In the afternoon, we explore Capo Carbonara, a protected marine area known for its rugged coastline and natural beauty. We stop at the viewpoint to take in stunning views of the Mediterranean. Those interested in water activities may choose to book a snorkelling or diving excursion to discover the rich marine life. We return to Cagliari for the night.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Oristano on Sardinia’s west coast. Begin your visit at Piazza Eleonora d’Arborea, where you can admire the statue of Eleonora, a key figure in Sardinian history. The piazza is surrounded by elegant buildings and cafés, ideal for a morning coffee. Nearby, explore Oristano Cathedral, a striking building that combines Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical styles, with interiors featuring frescoes and a notable wooden ceiling. Next, visit the Tower of Mariano II, a 13th-century remnant of the city’s medieval walls that offers insight into Oristano’s past. For lunch, choose a local trattoria to sample Sardinian specialities such as bottarga, malloreddus or pecorino sardo; Ristorante Cocco & Dessi and Trattoria Portixedda are recommended. In the afternoon, relax at Spiaggia di Is Arutas, a distinctive beach known for its quartz sand resembling grains of rice. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters and take in the natural beauty of the coastline. Overnight in Oristano.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Alghero, a charming coastal city in northwestern Sardinia known for its Catalan heritage and well-preserved old town. Explore the historic centre by wandering through narrow, cobbled streets lined with medieval architecture. Visit Alghero Cathedral, a striking 16th-century church blending Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles; the bell tower offers excellent views over the city and sea. Discover the Torre di Porta Terra, an ancient watchtower featuring exhibits on Alghero’s history and panoramic vistas from the top. For lunch, choose from the many inviting restaurants in the old town or near the marina, sampling local dishes such as lobster Catalan style, fregola with seafood, or bottarga. In the afternoon, visit Neptune’s Grotto, an impressive sea cave located about 20 kilometres from Alghero. You can reach it by boat from the marina or by car followed by a descent down the Escala del Cabirol (Billy Goat Stairs). The cave is renowned for its stunning stalactites, stalagmites and an underground lake. End the day watching the sunset from Bastioni Marco Polo, the seawalls along the old town’s edge, offering spectacular views over the Mediterranean. Overnight in Alghero.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day in Stintino, a charming fishing village renowned for its beautiful beaches. Begin by exploring the heart of Stintino’s Old Town, wandering through its quaint streets and admiring traditional Sardinian architecture. Visit the Museo della Tonnara to discover the village’s history as a tuna fishing centre, gaining insight into the traditional techniques and maritime heritage. Then, take a short drive to the famous La Pelosa Beach, celebrated for its crystal-clear, shallow waters and fine white sand. Spend time relaxing on the beach, swimming, or snorkelling in these remarkable waters. For lunch, choose one of the seaside restaurants near La Pelosa and savour fresh seafood dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole or fritto misto. Return to Alghero for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Porto Cervo before continuing to Baja Sardinia. Begin your visit at Porto Cervo Marina, renowned for its luxury yachts and elegant surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the docks to admire the impressive vessels moored here. Then, explore the Piazzetta di Porto Cervo, the town’s main square, lined with upscale boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Nearby, visit the Stella Maris Church, a striking example of modern Mediterranean architecture designed by Michele Busiri Vici. The church’s whitewashed walls and bell tower offer lovely views over the marina and bay, while inside you’ll find a serene atmosphere with notable artworks, including a painting attributed to El Greco. In the evening, settle in for your overnight stay in Baja Sardinia.

After breakfast, we suggest a day trip to La Maddalena, a captivating archipelago off Sardinia’s northeast coast. Begin with a 30-minute drive to Palau, the gateway town where you’ll catch a ferry to La Maddalena (ferry not included). The crossing takes around 20 minutes and offers scenic views of the coastline and sea. Once on the island, explore La Maddalena town, wandering its charming streets and visiting Piazza Umberto I, the lively main square ideal for a coffee break. History enthusiasts can visit the Museo Archeologico Navale, which showcases the archipelago’s maritime past through shipwreck artefacts and naval exhibits. For lunch, choose a local trattoria to savour fresh seafood specialities. In the afternoon, relax at Spiaggia di Cala Spalmatore, known for its clear turquoise waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Return by ferry to Palau in the late afternoon before driving back to Baja Sardinia for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure to relax and explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, drive to Olbia Airport and return your hire car at the designated office, preparing for your onward journey.