Eylul Tunc 
Planning an Italian getaway? Then hop on this post on where to stay in Sardinia, one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean!
After thorough research, I’ve crafted this post which has the best towns on the island, each with a list of the top hotels and some fun things to do!
In short, Caligari is the best area to stay in Sardinia and the island’s capital, which has lots of attractions and hotels! But if you’re looking for something else, just scroll down and you’ll find 6 more places!
Since Sardinia has become so popular, I recommend booking you hotels here in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the high season (June, July, August).
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here are the best places to stay in Sardinia, with hotels from luxury to budget. They all have great reviews and ideal locations!
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Cagliari – where to stay in Sardinia for the first time
- 2. Alghero – for the local atmosphere
- 3. Sant’ Antioco – where to stay in Sardinia for relaxation
- 4. Sassari – best place to stay in Sardinia for history
- 5. Olbia – where to stay in Sardinia for the families
- 6. Villasimius – best place for outdoor adventures
- 7. Stintino – where to stay in Sardinia for the best beaches
- 8. Costa Smeralda – a glamorous town for luxury travelers
- BONUS: 3 Extra places to visit in Sardinia
- FAQs about where to stay in Sardinia
- Final thoughts on where to stay in Sardinia
Check out this map which will help you visualize the best towns to stay in Sardinia, that I’ll talk about in this post:
- Cagliari: for first-timers
- ALGHERO: for the local atmosphere
- Sant’ Antioco: for relaxation
- Sassari: for history lovers
- Olbia: for families
- VILLASIMIUS: for outdoor adventures
- Stintino: for beaches
- Costa Smeralda: for luxury travelers
1. Cagliari – where to stay in Sardinia for the first time
Welcome to Cagliari, the island’s capital where you’ll probably land if you’re coming by plane, since there’s an airport just a 15 min drive away from the city.
NOTE: Sardinia has 3 airports, so double check which ones are closest to the area of that island where you want to stay. Olbia Airport (map) is set on the North Coast, Cagliari Airport (map) for the Southern Coast and Alghero Airport (map) for the North Western coast.
Located on the Southern coast of the island, this town is the best place to stay in Sardinia, Italy, for those of you traveling here for the first time. The town will give you a proper introduction to the culture of the island!
Surrounded by the sea and hills, the capital is packed with historic buildings, museums, gardens and plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can indulge in all the yummy food!
PRO TIP: This is also a great place to stay without a car, since the town has great public transport connections that can take you to the main sights on Sardinia. However, if you wish to visit the remote beaches or areas, then you might need a car.
While here you’ll have plenty to do and see including visiting some of its amazing attractions like Castello di San Michele Cagliari (map), a 12th century castle perched atop a hill, the Tuvixeddu necropolis (map), Bastione di Saint Remy (map), Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia (map) and Orto Botanico di Cagliari (map) a gorgeous garden that you can explore for hours!
These are just some of them, there are many others waiting for you plus some fab beaches where you can enjoy the amazing weather, like Poetto Beach (map) which also has some beach clubs and restaurants.
Let’s check out the best places to stay in Cagliari:
Located in the heart of the city, this 5-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a large swimming pool, an upscale spa, a nice restaurant, and a fabulous breakfast. At night you can enjoy a nice Sicilian meal in their exclusive restaurant and drink some cocktails on their beautiful terrace.
Other accommodation options in Cagliari
This hotel set near the attractions offers spacious rooms, an airport shuttle, a nice restaurant
Cozy hotel that has spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi and a terrace where you can enjoy your coffee
A spacious apartment perfect for families and groups that has a kitchen and a living room
Since this is the most popular area to stay in Sardinia and the hotels I gave you above are the best of the best, they may book out quickly. For those of you like me who aren’t quite so organized, here are some other great options in Cagliari city:
- Luxury – Le Palmette Suites
- Mid Priced – BB22 Bed Villanova
- Budget – Residenza Kastrum
- Airbnb – Cozy Design Apt
Things to do in Cagliari
- See the impressive Roman Amphitheatre and check out the views
- Enjoy the sun on Spiaggia del Poetto
- Check out the 12th-century fortified castle of San Michele
- See the beautiful Bastione Saint Remy
- Visit the gorgeous Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia
- Take a day trip to Costa Rei to explore beautiful beaches
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum
2. Alghero – for the local atmosphere
Located on the Northwest coast of Sardinia (around a 3h drive away from Cagliari), Alghero is a charming town filled with historical gems!
Home to one of the island’s international airports, the town is known for its Old Town which boasts cobblestone streets, and architecture that shows the Italian and Catalan heritage of the area!
Some people call Alghero, “little Barcelona” and you’ll get why once you see all its Catalan Gothic buildings!
Just like most towns in Sardinia, Alghero offers a mix of attractions, beaches, restaurants and amazing hotels!
Lots of tourists stay in Alghero so that they can visit the famous Neptune’s Grotto (map), which is located 1h away by bus and 30 min by car from Alghero. The stalactite cave is a major attraction on the island and it looks otherworldly! So definitely check it out!
Back in the town, you’ll also find some fab attractions like the Cattedrale dell’ Immacolata Concezione (map), Torre de l’Esperó Reial (map) and the Coral Museum, among many other places.
But I’m sure you’ll want to hit the beaches, the minute you arrive here, so definitely head to Spiaggia di Las Tronas (map), Spiaggia del Lido di Alghero and Spiaggia di San Giovanni (map) for a day of swimming in Sardinia’s healing and abundant waters!
Spend your nights stargazing by the pool on the terrace of this hotel! Boasting sea views and a bar, this place is definitely a keeper! Its rooms have a modern design and a flat-screen TV.
Other accommodation options in Alghero
Chill by the pool of this hotel that comes with a restaurant, family rooms and a bar
Enjoy your coffee on the balcony of your room at this hotel that offers bike rentals
Things to do in Alghero
- Visit the unique Neptune’s Grotto
- Check out the Cattedrale dell’ Immacolata Concezione
- Admire some unique jewelry at the Coral Museum
- Stop by the Torre de l’Esperó Reial
- Chill on the beach at Spiaggia del Lido di Alghero (map)
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3. Sant’ Antioco – where to stay in Sardinia for relaxation
Sant Antico is located in the Southwestern coast of Sardinia just 1h and 20min away from Cagliari by car, but you can also reach it by ferry since it’s more of an island linked to the mainland of Sardinia by a bridge and small beaches.
This little island is perfect for those who just want to relax, chill and enjoy late nights in the island bars, drinking aperol and wine!
NOTE: This section is about the whole island of Sant’Antioco, not just the main town which has the same name as the island.
You can start the day on the beach, with a cup of coffee to go from one of the espresso bars! I love catching the sunset on the beach, especially in a place like Sardinia! Spiaggia di Is Pruinis (map) is probably the closest one to the center area, so you can head to that one.
But there are others on the island that you should check out like Portixeddu beach (map) or Su Forru Macchina (map) beach.
Once you’ve had enough sand in your shoes or in your bags, you can head to explore the town center and its attractions. Church of Saint Antiochus Martyr (map), Museo del Bisso , Forte Sabaudo Su Pisu Sant’Antioco Sardegna and Museo Archeologico “Ferruccio Barreca are some amazing sites that you should check out.
But also do some exploring on Sant’ Antioco’s streets! You’ll never know what you’ll stumble across!
By the time the sun sets you can head for drinks at Rubiu Brewery (map) or Bar Fontana (map) where you can listen to some live music.
This 4-star hotel offers rooms with amazing sea views, a large swimming pool, a kids pool, free parking, a fabulous breakfast, and a nice restaurant. At night you can enjoy a nice drink in Lu Hotel Maldroxia’s elegant bar and enjoy the beautiful views.
Other accommodation options in Sant’ Antioco
This hotel overlooking the Sardinian coast offers free parking, spacious rooms, breakfast and a pool
An affordable place that offers easy access to the beach, a bar and rooms with sea views,
This Airbnb has spacious rooms and an amazing terrace with a view of the Mediterranean
Things to do in Sant’ Antioco
- Swim in the crystal clear sea at the Cala Grotta (map)
- Visit the Museo Archeologico “Ferruccio Barreca”
- Relax all day on Portixeddu beach
- Check out Museo del Bisso
- Chill on the beach at Cala Sapone (map)
- Learn new things at Forte Sabaudo Su Pisu Sant’Antioco Sardegna (map)
4. Sassari – best place to stay in Sardinia for history
History lovers, prepare your bags, because you’ll want to leave as soon as possible after reading all about Sassari, the second-largest town on the island.
Located in the Northwest part of the island, a 2h and a half drive away from the capital, Sassari is the oldest town on the island, with some of its archeological settings, dating back to the Neolithic age.
NOTE: Although Sardinia is part of Italy, the island has its own language so if you hear something that doesn’t really sound like Italian, don’t be confused. You don’t need to worry though, the locals can speak regular Italian and English.
Perched 225 meters above sea level, the town offers amazing sea viewa, but it doesn’t have direct access to it. So if you want to stay here you’ll have to use a car or public transport to hit the shores.
You can start your adventures in the town center, where you’ll also find the University of Sassari! Not too far from it, you’ll find the beautiful Romanesque Cattedrale di San Nicola, Piazza d’Italia (map) the central town square and the National Museum Giovanni Antonio Sanna which boasts some amazing things from art to jewelry.
Outside the town center area, you’ll find some of the archeological sites, Altare Monte d’Accoddi, Domus de janas (map), Necropolis of Montalè (map), and Tomba di Molafà (map) are some of the most popular ones!
This family-run hotel offers spacious rooms, equipped with everything you need. You can enjoy a nice Sicilian wine on the spacious terrace while admiring the views after a day of exploring the city.
Other accommodation options in Sassari
This boutique hotel offers rooms with a traditional Sicilian style decoration, a bar, and free Wi-fi
An affordable hotel which offers cozy rooms and easy access to the main attractions
Centrally located, this Airbnb offers well-equipped rooms and is a great place to stay for families
Things to do in Sassari
- Visit the archeological sites at Altare Monte d’Accoddi (map)
- Go to the National Museum Giovanni Antonio Sanna
- See the interesting Saccargia Church (map)
- Explore Piazza d’Italia
- Visit the National Picture Gallery of Sassari
- See the beautiful Fountain of the Rosello (map)
- Take a trip to visit Basilica of San Gavino (map)
5. Olbia – where to stay in Sardinia for the families
Planning a family getaway to Sardinia? Then check out Olbia, an area located on the Northeast coast of the island, around a 3h drive away from Cagliari.
Home to one of the island’s international airports (Olbia Airport), this town is famous for its gorgeous beaches, like Spiaggia di Mogadiscio (map) and Spiaggia per Cani (map), where you and your family can spend days relaxing, playing and swimming in the bluest waters.
Olbia also offers a nice local atmosphere with a small old town vibe!
In the town center, you’ll find plenty of restaurants where you and the kids can indulge in all those yummy Italian dishes. Don Carlos (map) and Ristorante Pizzeria Giropizza (map) are some great places where you can start your culinary adventures. While you’re in the town center area, you can also visit some of the attractions there like Chiesa Parrocchiale di S.Paolo Apostolo (map), Museo Archeologico di Olbia and the big Fausto Noce Park (map).
This luxury hotel offers family-friendly rooms with an elegant terrace, a large swimming pool, free private parking, and a bar. You can relax in the bathtub in their spa and unwind in the traditional Turkish bath. The town center and the restaurants are within walking distance of the accommodation.
Other accommodation options in Olbia
This centrally located 4-star hotel offers family-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi and a nice garden area
A hotel with family-friendly rooms that boast sea views from the balcony and a flat-screen Tv
Set in the town center this Airbnb has a cozy room with a private bathroom and a balcony
Things to do in Olbia
- Go for a family picnic at the Parco Fausto Noce
- Visit the Archaeological Museum of Olbia
- Enjoy a family dinner at Pizzeria Giropizza
- Swim in the crystal clear water at Spiaggia di Mogadiscio
- See the Basilica di San Simplicio (map)
- See the Roman ruins at Monumento Pozzo Sacro Sa Testa (map)
6. Villasimius – best place for outdoor adventures
Located on the Southwestern tip of the island, this former fishing village is truly one of Sardinia’s gems, and home to some of the island’s top beaches and diving spots.
So if you want to go on some adventures to explore Sardinia’s incredible dining spots and eat yummy food, then Villasimius is for you!
NOTE: You’ll probably notice that on Google Maps, the area appears as Crabonaxa, although its name is Villasimius.
If you want to hit the beach the moment you arrive, then head over to Punta Molentis Beach (map) which is incredibly beautiful with its white sands, blue water and surrounding hills! Spiaggia di Porto Giunco (map) is also pretty nice and it’s also the home of some pink flamingos!
Back in the town center area, you’ll find lots of restaurants, hotels and some shops. There aren’t many attractions here, besides the natural ones like the beaches and diving spots!
However, you should definitely visit the Villasimius Archaeological Museum (map) and learn more about the island’s history.
Sleep like a baby in the super comfortable rooms of this hotel that has an outdoor swimming pool, rooms with a balcony and a flat-screen Tv. Housed in a colonial-style building and surrounded by gardens the hotel offers a private beach area.
Other accommodation options in Villasimius
Stylish rooms equipped with all necessary facilities, in a hotel that offers breakfast and has a bar
This affordable accommodation boasts family rooms, an airport shuttle and a complimentary breakfast
A super cozy room with a private attached bathroom, a desk and free parking
Things to do in Villasimius
- Chill on the Punta Molentis Beach
- Grab a bite at Sandalyon Villasimius Restaurant (map)
- Visit the Villasimius Archaeological Museum
- Spot the pink flamingos on Spiaggia di Porto Giunco
7. Stintino – where to stay in Sardinia for the best beaches
Stintino is located on the Northwest coast of Sardinia, just a 45 min drive away from the closest airport (in Alghero).
This town offers some of the best beaches on the island so get ready to see all those gorgeous shades of blue water and an extremely scenic coastline!
To be honest, it’s hard to decide which beach to hit first when you’re here, but I would definitely start with Punta Negra (map) and Cala Lupo (map). These beaches are super wide, with bright dry sand and some of the clearest water you will ever see!
There are also some super Instagrammable beaches here like La Pelosa (map) which looks straight out of a postcard from heaven and Spiaggia del Gabbiano (map).
However, these are just some of them! I think the best way to explore and see all the sandy beaches in the area, is to explore the coastline all day everyday! But, do take a break to grab a bite at one of the many restaurants in the area! Ristorante Bar L’Ancora Porticciolo (map) is a great one and it offers some gorgeous waterfront views.
You’re going to love the spacious apartments of this accommodation that comes with such stylish designs! Each apartment is equipped with a private kitchen, a furnished terrace with a barbecue and a garden!
Other accommodation options in Stintino
This hotel offers romantic rooms, private parking, breakfast, and easy access to the beaches
Set a short walk away from the beach, this hotel boasts rooms with a terrace and breakfast
Feel at home in this lovely place that comes with a garden, a kitchen and a balcony
Things to do in Stintino
- Enjoy the sun on Punta Negra and Cala Lupo
- Learn new things at MuT – Museo della Tonnara di Stintino
- Snap some pics on La Pelosa Beach
- Check out the Torre del Falcone (map)
- Grab a bite at Ristorante Bar L’Ancora Porticciolo
8. Costa Smeralda – a glamorous town for luxury travelers
Stretching on the Northeastern tip of the island, Costa Smeralda is made of different towns and beaches, and it’s one of the most exclusive areas in Sardinia!
If you were looking for a place with fancy hotels and restaurants, then you’ve found the one!
Although it’s hard to find any borders on where Costa Smeralda begins and where it ends, you can know for sure that 2 of its most important parts that are definitely part of Costa Smeralda are Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo.
The area is known for its white and pink sands, scenic bays surrounded by red rocks and blue waters that will charm anyone! Its stunning scenery makes it a great destination for couples, who are planning a romantic getaway!
Since the 1980s, Costa Smeralda has become a favorite of the rich people in Europe and not only. So don’t be surprised when you see lots of yachts docking in the port, especially in towns like Porto Cervo.
While here you can dine at fancy restaurants and of course, explore all the incredible beaches! Some famous ones include Spiaggia Del Piccolo Pevero Beach (map), Spiaggia Baja Sardinia (map) and Spiaggia Cala Granu (map).
This luxury resort that overlooks the beautiful Mediterranean offers a private beach, a fabulous breakfast, and an amazing restaurant where you can enjoy some delicious Sardinian meals and wine. During the day you can relax in the wellness center or play some tennis.
Other accommodation options in Costa Smeralda
This resort offers a large swimming pool, rooms with a view of the coast, and a yummy breakfast
A B&B that has rooms with a balcony, a restaurant, an outdoor pool and a spa center where you can relax
Located at the Porto Cervo Yacht Club, this Airbnb offers a stylish room, a terrace and a kitchen
Things to do in Costa Smeralda
- Visit the impressive Giant tombs of Coddu Ecchju (map)
- Catch a sunset in Porto Cervo
- Take a day trip to La Maddalena archipelago
- Swim in the crystal clear water at Spiaggia Del Piccolo Pevero Beach
- Enjoy a drink at White Beach Club (map)
- See the Roman ruins at Nuraghe la Prisgiona (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | €250 |
| 🧳 Mid-range hotel: | €120 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €60 |
| 📍 Best area: | Cagliari |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Palazzo Doglio |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Hotel Flora |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Residenza Le Scalette |
BONUS: 3 Extra places to visit in Sardinia
Since Sardinia is so big, I decided to make this bonus with 3 additional places that you should check out while visiting!
NOTE: For some of these places you may need to rent a car as some of them are pretty remote!
1. Santa Teresa Gallura
Santa Teresa is located on the North coast next to Costa Smeralda and it’s a great place for those of you who want to check out more beaches!
While here you can explore the gorgeous Spiaggia Rena Bianca (map), which looks incredible with its white sandy shores and super blue water and also the beautiful Capo Testa (map) where the scenery is breathtaking.
The town is also a great place to stay in Sardinia for nightlife, as there are lots of clubs and bars.
2. Spiaggia di Piscinas
Spiaggia di Piscinas (map) is located on the West coast and 1.5 hours drive from Cagliari. This beach is completely different from the more touristy ones, offering huge sand dunes with an epic view.
3. La Maddalena Archipelago
Off the Northern coast of Sardinia, there are 7 Archipelago islands and Maddalena is the biggest and most beautiful one. In order to reach La Maddalena you’ll have to take a ferry from Porto di Palau (map). The whole archipelago is home to a national park (map) where you can try fun activities like scuba diving, hiking and boat trips.
FAQs about where to stay in Sardinia
🗺️ Which area is best to stay in Sardinia?
Cagliari is the best place to stay for first-timers! The capital city is a great gateway to explore the rest of Sardinia and it offers amazing attractions and beaches.
🏖️ What is the most beautiful part of Sardinia?
Stintino and Costa Smeralda are some of the most beautiful parts of Sardinia and where you’ll find some incredible beaches!
🧭 Is North or South Sardinia better?
If you have to pick one, I would say the North coast is better as it has many white-sand beaches, scenic landscapes, and great hotels.
🏠 Where to stay on the West coast of Sardinia?
Sassari and Cagliari are the best towns on the West Coast! Both offer incredible attractions, history, beaches and amazing hotels.
🛏️ What are some cool places to stay in Sardinia?
Palazzo Doglio and Cervo Hotel Costa Smeralda Resort are some of the coolest places to stay in Sardinia! The top-rated hotels come with amazing facilities and both have great reviews.
🚗 How long does it take to travel around Sardinia?
It takes around 4h to drive from the North coast to the South coast.
🕐 How many days do you need in Sardinia?
Sardinia is a big island and the beaches are spread out. If you want to discover both the north and the south coast you should spend at least 5 days.
🥾 Where to stay in Sardinia for hiking?
Tonara, Seiu and Orgosolo are some great towns to stay in Sardinia, as there are many hiking trails around them.
🤔 Is it necessary to rent a car in Sardinia?
No, it’s not necessary to rent a car, as you can use public transport, but if you want to reach more remote areas or beaches, then you might need one!
🏖️ Where to stay in Sardinia for beaches?
The North tip and Southern tip of Sardinia offer some of the best beaches, so depending on your preferences, you can pick a town there!
Final thoughts on where to stay in Sardinia
I’m sure you agree with me when I say that we can’t ever get enough of Italy and its stunning towns and islands!
I hope that this guide on where to stay in Sardinia, Italy, helped you decide which area and hotel to pick!
I know it’s a tough call, especially when it comes to hotels so if you need a bit of inspiration, here are my top 2 favorite ones:
- Palazzo Doglio – a luxurious hotels with rooms that have a balcony and a spa
- Hotel Flora – a boutique hotel with stylish furnishings and a restaurant
Remember that Sardegna is a super popular destination! So I recommend booking your hotels here in advance, especially if you’re coming during the high season (June, July, August).
Enjoy your island holiday and all the yummy food! If you have any questions about Sardinia, or Italy in general, drop me a comment below and I’ll make sure to answer as soon as I can.
Have an amazing holiday,
Eylul
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