Coastal charms: a 9-day Sardinian road trip

Cagliari

Day 1: Welcome to Sardinia!

Welcome to Sardinia! After picking up your rental car, embark on a scenic self-drive to your hotel in the Cagliari area.

Once you arrive, check-in to your accommodation and enjoy the freedom to explore the island's beautiful landscapes, beaches and cultural attractions at your own pace, starting right from your arrival.

Cagliari - Conti Vecchi Saltwork - Cagliari

Day 2: Sardinian saltworks

Today, after breakfast, you'll enjoy a private guided tour of Cagliari, immersing yourself in its rich history and culture. Explore its charming streets, ancient fortifications and vibrant markets, discovering local traditions and flavors along the way.

Later, delve into the fascinating world of Sardinian saltworks, learning about the traditional methods of salt production and the importance of this industry to the island's economy and heritage.

The evening is free for you to spend as you please. 

Cagliari - Tharros - Oliena

Day 3: Archaeological masterpieces

After breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel and take a scenic drive through Central Sardinia. Here, you'll encounter the ancient marvel of Barumini and its Giant Nuraghe, an impressive archaeological site dating back thousands of years. Explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the Nuragic civilisation that once thrived here.

Continue your adventure with a guided tour of Tharros, an ancient Phoenician-Roman city overlooking the stunning coastline. Delve into its history as you stroll through its ruins and marvel at its archaeological treasures, gaining insights into Sardinia's rich cultural heritage.

After, head onto your home for the next two nights. Settle into your hotel and then enjoy an evening at leisure. 

Oliena - Orgosolo - Oliena

Day 4: 4x4 adventure in Orgosolo

Experience an incredible day exploring the heart of Sardinia with an excursion to Orgosolo, just 30 minutes from your hotel. Known for its vibrant murals, rebellious spirit and history of banditry, Orgosolo offers a unique glimpse into ancient traditions.

A private guide will pick you up in Orgosolo aboard a 4x4 jeep and you will discover some of the wild places of Supramonte, where you'll also enjoy a lunch of local meats and cheeses. 

Afterwards, head back to your hotel for another evening relaxing in the countryside. 

Oliena - Bosa - Alghero

Day 5: Coastal charms

After breakfast, it's time to drive to the picturesque Alghero region and immerse yourself in the charm of Bosa at your leisure.

Check into your hotel, then take time to explore this historic town nestled along the coast of Sardinia, known for its colourful buildings, medieval architecture and scenic riverfront.

Wander through the narrow streets lined with artisans' shops, visit the imposing Malaspina Castle overlooking the town or simply relax at a seaside café soaking in the Mediterranean ambiance.

Alghero

Day 6: Neptune's cave

Wake up and explore Alghero with a guided walking tour. This picturesque town won't disappoint! 

After your walk, take the hydrofoil to Neptune's Cave. This spectacular cave was formed about two million years ago: inside, you will see rooms with astounding karst formations, a white sandy beach and a huge underground lake.

After you've explored this subterranean wonder, head back to Alghero for the evening, which is free to spend as you please. 

Alghero - Berchidda - Costa Smeralda

Day 7: Wine & olive oil

Wake up, have an early breakfast then drive to the breathtaking Costa Smeralda. During your journey, be sure you make these two stopovers!

First, visit the wine museum of Berchidda that will teach you much about the history and the essence of Sardinian wines: and your visit will end with a tasting.

Afterwards, you'll also have the chance to visit a typical Sardinian olive oil mill where you'll get to taste the product.

Next, head on to your next hotel, check in and relax.  

Costa Smeralda - Maddalena Archipelago - Costa Smeralda

Day 8: A day of island hopping

Today, you'll enjoy a full-day boat tour, exploring the most beautiful routes on the Maddalena Archipelago, with a chance to visit at least three of the most beautiful islands of Northern Sardinia.

If you'd like, stop for a short swim in the crystal clear waters.

Afterwards, head back to your hotel and enjoy your final night in Italy by venturing out for a nice evening dinner by the sea.

Costa Smeralda - Olbia

Day 9: Arrivederci!

It's time to say goodbye to Italy. Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel, then drive to Olbia Airport, where you'll drop off your rental car before catching a flight home.