If you're planning a 5-day getaway to Sardinia and want to plan everything to make the most of your time there, don't miss this simple travel guide.
What awaits you in Sardinia?
Sardinia is an Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea, west of mainland Italy and south of Corsica. Its charm lies in its three main ingredients: wild nature, archaeological remains and traditional flavours.
The acclaim of its beaches has crossed borders, with its white sand and turquoise waters. For example, Cala Luna, La Pelosa and Poetto. What's more, the island preserves cone-shaped megalithic constructions called nuraghe, such as the one at Barumini. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In its cities, such as Cagliari or Alghero, you can not only stroll, but also enjoy the gastronomy. Cheeses such as Sardinian pecorino, cured meats such as bottarga or porchetta, and delicious dishes such as malloreddus (wheat semolina with tomato sauce and fried skin) or seadas (sweet pastry with honey). All accompanied by a good local wine, such as Cannonau.
But if you want to discover all these delights and spend time in each city, you need good logistics. To get around, we recommend you opt for a rental car, and OK Mobility offers the best conditions. You will gain time and flexibility and be able to reach more remote locations as well. You can pick up your car at Olbia airport and start your adventure from there.
What to see on a 5-day trip to Sardinia
The options are numerous and you can change course any time you like, but here is our suggestion for a 5-day getaway to Sardinia.
Day 1: Olbia, Costa Smeralda and Porto Cervo
Once in your car, there is plenty to see in Olbia. You can spend the morning in the historic centre, where the Basilica of San Simplicio stands out. Stroll through its cobblestone streets and try a Sardinian focaccia at the local market. Afterwards, head to Costa Smeralda. Here you can test the waters (literally) on the beaches of Liscia Ruja and Capriccioli. Round out the day dining by the sea near Porto Cervo, watching the sunset with a glass of Vermentino.
Day 2: Maddalena Archipelago
A new day has dawned and it is time to go to the port of Palau to catch the ferry to La Maddalena. The main island can be explored on foot or by bike. In the afternoon, cross to Budelli Island to see the famous Spiaggia Rosa, which is reached via authorised transport or organised tour. Continue to Cala Corsara, in Spargi, perfect for snorkelling among the rocks. In the evening, return to your starting point in Olbia.
Day 3: Alghero, Walls and Neptune's Grotto
Alghero is two hours away from Olbia. Its historic centre is walled and has a certain Catalan influence; visit the cathedral of Santa Maria and Via Carlo Alberto. You can enjoy fresh fish for lunch on the beach of San Giovanni, and in the afternoon, travel by boat from the port to Neptune's grotto, a sea cave bathed by the Mediterranean. It can be reached on foot, but down 654 steps of the Escala del Cabirol from the cliff.
Day 4: Nuoro, Orgosolo and the Barbagia region
In the final stretch of your 5-day trip to Sardinia, it's time to head towards the centre of the island, specifically to Nuoro, isolated in the mountains. From there, continue to Orgosolo, full of protest street murals. Then continue along the mountain road to Dorgali, the gateway to the Gulf of Orosei National Park. Here you can take several hiking trails through forests and along cliffs.
Day 5: Cala Luna, Cagliari and goodbye Sardinia
Early in the morning, go to Cala Gonone for a boat ride to Cala Luna, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and caves. Afterwards, head south to Cagliari, about three hours away. It is the historical, political and cultural hub of the island. Stroll through the Castello district, with the Tower of the Elephant and the cathedral. Try Sardinian tapas at a local trattoria for lunch and relax in the afternoon at the urban beach of Poetto. If you prefer something quieter, there is Punta Molentis, where you can round off your trip before heading home.
And so ends your five-day Sardinia getaway. Landscapes that change every few miles, beaches where you will want to stay all day and delicious gastronomy at every stop. Book your rental car in Olbia with OK Mobility and don't miss a thing.
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