Thanks to its beautiful white sand beaches, Sardinia attracts visitors from across the world. With a rental car you’ll be able to go beyond these big coastal attractions and explore another side of the island, including its old towns and ancient monuments, as well as all the highlights of its cities.
Capital culture
Cagliari is a busy port city, providing an important link between Italy and Africa. But it’s also a popular destination for visitors thanks to its historic old town and scenic marina. Highlights include the Castello district, home to the city’s Romanesque cathedral and 14th century royal palace.
After soaking up the historic sights, head to one of the restaurants that line Piazza Carlo Alberto for delicious Sardinian seafood, before taking a stroll along Via Santa Croce to enjoy beautiful sunset views.
Sun-kissed city
Over on the north-west coast of the island, Alghero is home to some of Sardinia’s most beautiful beach destinations including Lido San Giovanni – a swimming and sunbathing spot popular with locals and tourists alike. Just a short drive away is the palm tree-lined Maria Pia Beach, as well as Bombarde Beach which boasts lively seafront bars and restaurants.
For something different try Neptune’s Grotto, a network of caves with an underwater salt lake and spectacular stalagmites and stalactites formed over million years. Afterwards, head back into the center of Alghero to explore the old town – known as Barceloneta, or Little Barcelona – where you can see the city’s cathedral and historic alleyways, lined with ice cream parlors and trattorias.
Beautiful Bosa
Hop in your rental car and take the scenic coastal road south of Alghero to discover the colorful town of Bosa. Famous for its pastel houses situated along the water’s edge, this historic settlement offers an array of attractions around its old town, known as Sa Costa.
Don’t miss the Castle of Serravalle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century, or the Ponte Vecchio, which spans the Temo River offering excellent views of the town’s famous rainbow houses. Afterwards, pay a visit to Bosa Marina Beach - one of the most beautiful stretches of sand to be found anywhere on the island.
Back to nature
Away from Sardinia’s busy beach resorts, there are spectacular wild areas just waiting to be explored in your rental car. Gennargentu National Park, on the east coast, boasts the highest peak in Sardinia, the 6000 foot Punta La Marmora, as well as the spectacular natural caves of Mount Tiscali.
Head north for Asinara, a small island that was once a prison camp but today is a protected area preserved for local wildlife. Access is only available through guided tours, where you can spot everything from rare seabirds to the albino donkeys that inhabit the island. Catch the boat from Porto Torres or Stintino harbor to access this hidden gem. With a rental car, it’s all within easy reach.