Sardinia Italy The BEST Things to DO in Sardinia 🇮🇹 Top 15 | Travel Guide MUST see Places + Tips
Don’t want to waste your trip to Sardinia by missing what really matters. Hi, I’m Sophia. In this miniseries to do travel guide shows you the top things to do, the must-sea places and the most important travel info for your unforgettable trip. Plus, I’ll be sharing local tips along the way, so make sure you don’t miss them. Number one, sail the Lamatalena Archipelago. One of the most essential and breathtaking things to do in Sardinia is to take a boat trip through the Lamadalena Archipelago. This protected national park located off the northeastern coast is a stunning collection of seven main islands and dozens of smaller granite islands. A top question for visitors is how do you get to the La Matalena archipelago? The best way is by joining a guided boat tour, which typically departs from Palao or Lamadalena town. These tours are the perfect way to discover the area’s incredible natural beauty. You will sail through crystal clearar turquoise waters and stop at some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world, such as the famous Spia Rosa or pink beach. From a drone’s perspective, the water swirling around the pink granite rocks and white sand coes creates a breathtaking mosaic of colors that looks like paradise on Earth. Number two, explore the glamorous Costa Smeralda. The Costa Smiralda or the Emerald Coast is the most famous and glamorous stretch of coastline in all of Sardinia. This is a world-renowned destination for the rich and famous. Known for its stunning white sand beaches, secluded coes and water that glows in brilliant shades of turquoise and emerald green. The heart of the Costas Moralda is the town of Porto Chervo, a luxurious village designaid in the 1960s. Here you can wander through its designer boutiques and admire the massive super yachts that fill its beautiful marina. A common question is what are the best beaches on the coast of Moralda? Some of the most famous include Capricioli, Principi, Bandandy Beach, and Lisha Ruha. A drive along the winding coastal road of the Costa Moralda offers spectacular views at every turn, showcasing the incredible natural beauty that first attracted royalty and movie stars to the stunning corner of the Mediterranean. Number three, hike to the iconic Kala Golorit. For a truly unforgettable combination of hiking and a paradise beach, you must visit Kala Goloritay. Located on the rugged and dramatic Gulf of Orosay, this small cove is a national monument and a UNESCO world heritage site. It is famous for its tiny white pebble beach, its crystal clearar turquoise water, a stunning natural stone arch, and a tall pointed rock pinnacle that towers over the cove. Many people wonder, can you drive to Kala Golarit? The answer is no, which is part of what makes it so special and pristine. You can reach it either by taking a boat tour from a nearby port like Kalaon or by embarking on a rewarding 1-hour hike through the mountains. The trail offers spectacular views and the final reveal of the beach below is a breathtaking moment that makes the effort completely worthwhile. Quick break. If you’re enjoying this, give it a like and hit subscribe. It helps me keep sharing hidden gems and smart travel tips every week. Got a favorite place or question? Drop it in the comments. I read and reply to them all. Let’s jump back into the adventure. Number four, take a boat trip on the Gulf of Orosay. The Gulf of Orisa on Sardinia’s east coast is home to some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the entire Mediterranean. The best way to experience this rugged coastline is by taking a boat trip, which is one of the most popular things to do in Sardinia. The towering limestone cliffs of the Super Monte Mountains plunge directly into the deep blue sea, hiding a series of spectacular and isolated beaches that are only accessible from the water. A question people often ask is which beaches can you visit on a Gulf of Orisy boat tour. The tours typically stop at world famous coes like Kaluna with its large sea caves, the incredibly photogenic Kalamariolu and Calabir. From a drone, the sight of the boats anchored in the brilliant turquoise water next to these pristine white beaches and immense cliffs is absolutely breathtaking. A link for this essential tour is in the description. Number five, walk the seaw walls of Alharo. The beautiful city of Alharo, located on the northwest coast, is one of Sardinia’s most charming and historic destinations. A common question is what is Alggero known for? It is famous for its unique Catalan heritage which is still evident in the local dialect and its architecture giving it the nickname Barceloneta or little Barcelona. The city’s most spectacular feature is its magnificent seaw walls or bastion that enclosed the historic old town. A walk along the top of these massive defensive walls, especially at sunset, is an essential Algerro experience. From here you get incredible views of the sparkling sea and the dramatic cliffs of Capokacia in the distance. The old town itself is a delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets filled with lovely shops, churches, and fantastic restaurants. Number six, visit the clifftop town of Castellardo. Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea, the medieval town of Castell Sardo is one of the most picturesque sites in northern Sardinia. The town is a beautiful cascade of colorful houses that climb a steep hill crowned at the very top by the impressive Dora Castle which dates back to the 12th century. The best thing to do here is to wander through the steep, narrow streets of the old town, which will lead you up to the castle. From the castle walls, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire coastline. And on a clear day, you can even see the mountains of Corsica in the distance. Castalso is also famous for its tradition of basket weaving. And you can often see local women weaving intricate baskets outside their homes in the historic center. Number seven, see the flamingos at Chia Bay. The area of Chia located on the stunning southern coast of Sardinia is famous for its collection of absolutely breathtaking beaches. The beaches here such as Suju Deu and Kalachola are known for their fine white sand, incredible sand dunes, and brilliantly clear turquoise water. One of the most special features of this area, however, is the presence of coastal lagoons situated just behind the main beaches. A top question for visitors is, can you see flamingos in Sardinia? The answer is yes, and the lagoons at Chia are one of the best places to see them. You can often see large flocks of beautiful pink flamingos feeding in the shallow, calm waters with the beautiful beaches and the sea in the background. This combination of pristine beaches, rolling sand dunes, and unique wildlife makes Chia a truly magical and unforgettable destination. Number eight, discover the ancient Nurash of Su Nuroxi. To understand the unique and ancient history of Sardinia, you must visit a Nurrage. These are mysterious ancient stone towers that are unique to the island, built by the Nurajic civilization thousands of years ago. The most important and impressive of all these sites is Sue Nuroxi D Baramini, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. This complex consists of a massive central tower surrounded by a complex curtain wall with four smaller towers and the remains of a sprawling village. A question people often ask is what was the purpose of the Nuragi? While their exact purpose is still debated by historians, they are believed to have been defensive fortresses, palaces, or religious temples. A guided tour of Sunnoxy is a fascinating journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the ancient and enigmatic culture that once dominated this island. Number nine, explore Cali’s Castello Quarter. Cali, the capital of Sardinia, is a vibrant and historic port city with a beautiful old town. The most impressive part of the city is the Castello Quarter, the ancient hilltop citadel that was once the seat of power on the island. This historic district is enclosed by massive defensive walls and limestone ramparts. You can walk along these ramparts for stunning panoramic views of the city, the port, and the sea. Inside the walls, you will find a maze of narrow, winding streets, historic palaces, and the city’s beautiful cathedral. The two medieval towers, the tower of the elephant and the tower of San Pancrasio, still stand guard over the entrance to the quarter and can be climbed for even more spectacular views. A visit to the Castello district is a musto to experience the rich history and incredible scenery of Sardinia’s capital city. Number 10, see the colorful town of Bosa. Located on the west coast of Sardinia, the town of Bosa is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful and colorful villages in all of Italy. The town is set on the banks of the Teimo River, the only navigable river in Sardinia and is overlooked by the imposing Malispina Castle. Bosa’s most famous feature is the row of beautiful pastel colored houses that line the riverbank in the old tannery district. This creates an incredibly picturesque and photogenic scene. You can wander across the old stone bridge and get lost in the steep, narrow, cobbled streets of the historic center known as Sak Costa. A climb up to the castle is well worth the effort for the fantastic views it offers over the town’s terracotta rooftops and the surrounding green valley. Bosa’s unique charm and vibrant colors make it an unmissable stop. Number 11. Relax at Kala Brandinci Little Tahiti. New. For a beach that truly feels like a Caribbean paradise, you must visit Kala Bandinci. Located on the northeast coast near Santiodoro, this world famous beach has earned the nickname Little Tahiti. And it is easy to see why. The beach is a stunning ark of incredibly fine, brilliant white sand that meets some of the clearest and most shallow turquoise water you will ever see. A common question is, is Kala Bandinci good for families? Yes, the water is exceptionally calm and shallow for a long way out, making it a perfect and safe natural swimming pool for children. The beach is surrounded by a beautiful pine forest and offers lovely views of the imposing Tavalara Island in the distance. Its spectacular tropical-like beauty makes it one of the most sought-after and photogenic beaches in all of Sardinia. Number 12. Hike Europe’s deepest canyon, Golola Digoropu. For a thrilling adventure in Sardinia’s rugged and mountainous interior, you must visit the Golola Digoropu. This is one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in all of Europe with sheer limestone walls that tower up to 500 m high. The canyon was carved over millions of years by the Flumedu River. A key question for adventure travelers is, can you hike in the Golola Doropu? Yes, hiking into the canyon is a very popular activity. The trek to the entrance is beautiful, and once inside, you will need to scramble over giant white boulders to explore the deepest sections. The scale of the canyon is truly immense and humbling. It is a fantastic destination for hiking, trekking, and canyoning, and it showcases the wild, untamed, and spectacular mountain scenery of inland Sardinia, a world away from the famous coastal resorts. Number 13, see the dunes of Pacina’s Beach. On the wild and undeveloped western coast of Sardinia, known as the Costa Verde, you will find one of the most unique and spectacular beaches in Europe, Pacina’s Beach. This incredible beach is famous for its gigantic sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 60 m. These vast golden dunes have been sculpted by the wind and stretch for several kilome inland, creating a spectacular desert-like landscape that meets the deep blue sea. A visit here feels like stepping into another world. The area is part of a former mining region, and you can still see the abandoned mining infrastructure, adding to the unique and slightly post-apocalyptic atmosphere. This is a place of raw, wild, and powerful natural beauty. Perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and see a completely different, untamed side of the island. Number 14, relax on La Palosa Beach, Instantino. La Palosa Beach, located in Stantino on the northwestern tip of Sardinia, is another beach that is consistently ranked among the most beautiful in the world. This beach is famous for one thing above all, the incredible color of its water. The sea here is incredibly shallow and calm, and it glows in unbelievable shades of brilliant turquoise, light blue and white, making it look more like a Caribbean lagoon than a Mediterranean beach. A key feature of the beach is the old Aragon’s watchtowwer that stands on a small island just off the coast, creating a perfect focal point for photos. A common question is, do you need to book to visit La Palosa? Yes, due to its popularity, access is often restricted in the summer, and you need to book your spot and pay an entrance fee in advance to help preserve its natural beauty. Number 15, taste Sardinian Pecarino and Canon wine. You cannot leave Sardinia without tasting some of its most famous and authentic culinary products which are born from its ancient pastoral traditions. The island is world famous for its pecorino sardo, a delicious and flavorful sheep’s milk cheese that is a staple of the local diet. You will find it served in every restaurant, often as an appetizer, perhaps drizzled with local honey. To accompany the cheese, you must try a glass of Canono, Sardinia’s most famous red wine. This rich and fullbodied wine is made from the ganache grape, and it is known for its high levels of antioxidants. A simple and authentic meal of sardinian pecarino cheese, some local cured meat like pushcido denial or wild boar pushcido, and a glass of canona wine is the perfect way to taste the true rustic flavors of the island’s mountainous interior. If you’re planning your next trip or just can’t get enough of hidden gems in wild places, watch this next. 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Planning your trip to Sardinia, Italy? Our 2025 travel guide covers the 15 best things to do in Sardinia, from the world-famous beaches of the Costa Smeralda to the rugged hiking trails of the Supramonte mountains. This guide has all the top attractions in Sardinia, including the breathtaking La Maddalena Archipelago, the iconic Cala Goloritzé, and the ancient Nuragic ruins of Su Nuraxi. Find all the essential tips and must-see sights for your ultimate Italian island adventure.
00:20 1. Sail the La Maddalena Archipelago
⛵ Take a boat trip through this protected national park, a stunning collection of granite islands with some of the world’s most beautiful and pristine beaches.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=La%20Maddalena%20Archipelago&partner_id=HF75GAQ
01:20 2. Explore the Glamorous Costa Smeralda
💎 Visit the “Emerald Coast,” a world-renowned destination famous for its stunning white sand beaches and water that glows in brilliant shades of turquoise.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Costa%20Smeralda&partner_id=HF75GAQ
02:26 3. Hike to the Iconic Cala Goloritzé
🏞️ Hike to Cala Goloritzé, a stunning UNESCO-listed cove famous for its white pebble beach, turquoise water, and a stunning natural stone arch.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Cala%20Goloritze&partner_id=HF75GAQ
03:41 4. Take a Boat Trip on the Gulf of Orosei
🌊 The best way to experience this rugged coastline is a boat trip, which stops at spectacular and isolated beaches like Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Gulf%20of%20Orosei&partner_id=HF75GAQ
04:43 5. Walk the Sea Walls of Alghero
🏰 Visit the charming city of Alghero and walk along the top of the magnificent sea walls that enclose the historic old town, especially at sunset.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Alghero&partner_id=HF75GAQ
05:43 6. Visit the Clifftop Town of Castelsardo
🏘️ Visit the medieval town of Castelsardo, a picturesque cascade of colourful houses crowned by the impressive 12th-century Doria Castle.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Castelsardo&partner_id=HF75GAQ
06:38 7. See the Flamingos at Chia Bay
🦩 Visit the southern coast area of Chia, famous for its breathtaking white sand beaches and the coastal lagoons where you can often see pink flamingos.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Chia%20Sardinia&partner_id=HF75GAQ
07:37 8. Discover the Ancient Nuraghe of Su Nuraxi
🗿 Visit Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most important example of a ‘nuraghe’—a mysterious ancient stone tower unique to Sardinia.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Su%20Nuraxi%20di%20Barumini&partner_id=HF75GAQ
08:38 9. Explore Cagliari’s Castello Quarter
✨ Explore the most impressive part of Sardinia’s capital, the Castello quarter. Walk along the massive defensive walls of this ancient, hilltop citadel for stunning panoramic views.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Cagliari&partner_id=HF75GAQ
09:38 10. See the Colourful Town of Bosa
🎨 Visit Bosa, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, famous for its row of beautiful, pastel-coloured houses that line the banks of the Temo River.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Bosa&partner_id=HF75GAQ
10:35 11. Relax at Cala Brandinchi, ‘Little Tahiti’
🏝️ Nicknamed “Little Tahiti,” this world-famous beach is a stunning arc of incredibly fine, brilliant white sand and exceptionally clear, shallow turquoise water.
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Cala%20Brandinchi&partner_id=HF75GAQ
11:33 12. Hike Europe’s Deepest Canyon, Gola di Gorropu
🥾 For a thrilling adventure, hike into Gola di Gorropu, one of Europe’s deepest canyons
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Gola%20di%20Gorropu&partner_id=HF75GAQ
12:34 13. See the Dunes of Piscinas Beach
🏜️ Visit Piscinas Beach on the wild western coast, famous for its gigantic golden sand dunes that reach up to 60 meters high
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Piscinas%20Beach&partner_id=HF75GAQ
13:32 14. Relax on La Pelosa Beach in Stintino
⭐ Visit La Pelosa, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, famous for its incredibly shallow water
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=La%20Pelosa%20Beach&partner_id=HF75GAQ
14:29 15. Taste Sardinian Pecorino and Cannonau Wine
🧀 You cannot leave Sardinia without tasting its most famous products
🔗 Here: https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Sardinia%20food%20tour&partner_id=HF75GAQ
❓ Quick FAQs
How do you get to the La Maddalena Archipelago? The best way is by a guided boat tour from Palau or La Maddalena town.
Can you drive to Cala Goloritzé? No, you must take a boat tour or a one-hour hike.
What is Alghero known for? Its unique Catalan heritage in its architecture and dialect.
Can you see flamingos in Sardinia? Yes, the coastal lagoons at Chia are one of the best places.
Do you need to book to visit La Pelosa? Yes, in summer you need to book and pay in advance.