Top 10 Places to Visit in Sardinia
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Latest page update: 19 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The top ten of Sardinia list explores the diverse landscapes and coastal highlights of the island region, from ancient sites and national parks to beach towns and offshore islands.
The list includes historic places like Alghero and Barumini, along with natural gems such as Tavolara and the Gulf of Orosei. Whether it’s dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, or remote inland villages, each place offers something different. Sardinia’s wild beauty and regional identity make it one of Italy’s most distinctive destinations. |
Tavolara, Sardinia
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Bosa
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Bosa is one of Sardinia’s most distinctive towns, with colourful houses lining the River Temo and a medieval castle watching from above. The riverside promenade and stone bridge complete the scene.
The historic district of Sa Costa climbs the hill below the Castello Malaspina, with narrow lanes and hidden courtyards. Bosa is also close to uncrowded beaches and the dramatic coastal road to Alghero. It's located on the island’s west coast and best explored by car. Sunset from the castle offers wide sea views. |
Bosa, Sardinia
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La Maddalena Archipelago
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The La Maddalena islands lie just off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, known for turquoise waters, granite cliffs, and hidden coves. The main island has a small town and scenic coastal drive.
Most visitors come for boat trips around the archipelago, especially to the pink sands of Budelli or the quiet beaches of Spargi. The area is protected as a national park. Ferries leave regularly from Palau. Tours can be arranged locally or in advance during the summer season. |
Spargi, La Maddalena Archipelago
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Alghero
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Alghero is a lively town on the northwest coast with Catalan roots, medieval walls, and a beautiful old town of cobbled streets and churches. The local dialect still reflects its Spanish heritage.
The seafront promenade curves around the bastions with cafés, gelaterias and sunset views. Day trips include beaches like Maria Pia or excursions to the nearby Neptune’s Grotto caves. Alghero has an airport and is one of the easiest places to visit in Sardinia. It’s also a centre for local wine and coral. |
Alghero, Sardinia
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Su Nuraxi di Barumini
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Su Nuraxi is Sardinia’s best-known nuragic site, a Bronze Age stone fortress built thousands of years ago. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an essential stop for history lovers.
The complex includes a central tower and surrounding huts, once part of a fortified village. Guided tours walk through the ancient chambers and explain how the structures were used. Barumini is located inland, best reached by car. It offers a glimpse into the island’s oldest civilisations. |
Su Nuraxi di Barumini, Sardinia
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Santa Teresa Gallura
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Santa Teresa Gallura is the northernmost town in Sardinia, overlooking the Strait of Bonifacio. Its main square leads to a cliffside viewpoint with clear waters and views of Corsica.
The town is known for Rena Bianca beach, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, as well as boat trips to La Maddalena and Corsica. There’s also a lively summer market scene. Ferries run to Bonifacio, and buses link to Olbia. It’s a popular spot for relaxed beach holidays. |
Santa Teresa Gallura, Sardinia
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Asinara
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Asinara is a remote island off Sardinia’s northwest coast, once used as a quarantine station and high-security prison. Today, it's a protected national park with wild terrain and history.
The island is home to wild albino donkeys, unspoilt beaches, and remains of old prison buildings. Access is limited and mostly by guided tours, cycling or walking routes. Boats leave from Stintino or Porto Torres. Advance booking is often required during summer. |
Asinara, Sardinia
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Gulf of Orosei
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The Gulf of Orosei stretches along the island’s eastern coast, with limestone cliffs, caves, and some of Sardinia’s best beaches.
Cala Luna, Cala Goloritzé and Cala Mariolu are the standouts. This section of coast is hard to reach by land, making boat trips the most popular way to explore it. Kayaking and hiking routes also offer access to hidden coves and coastal paths. Tours depart from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese. The area is a top spot for outdoor adventure. |
Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia
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La Pelosa Beach
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La Pelosa is one of the most photographed beaches in Sardinia, located near Stintino in the northwest.
Its shallow turquoise water and fine white sand create a tropical look. The beach faces the small Isola Piana and the 16th-century watchtower of Torre della Pelosa. During peak season, numbers are restricted, and you’ll need to book in advance. It’s a popular family destination. Regulations also require a beach mat to protect the sand. |
La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia
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Gennargentu National Park
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Gennargentu National Park covers Sardinia’s highest mountains and most remote inland landscapes. It offers hiking, rare wildlife, and small traditional villages with strong local culture.
The Supramonte area within the park is famous for canyons, caves, and the Gorropu Gorge — one of the deepest in Europe. Some trails require guides, especially in wilder areas. Access points include Orgosolo, Aritzo and Fonni. Winter brings occasional snow, and summers are best for trekking. |
Gennargentu National Park, Sardinia
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Tavolara
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Tavolara is a towering limestone island off the northeast coast, rising dramatically from the sea like a mountain. It’s visible from miles around and offers a dramatic contrast to the nearby beaches.
Boat trips take visitors to the island’s beaches and hiking paths, though most of the interior is protected. The water surrounding Tavolara is part of a marine reserve. Boats run from Porto San Paolo, near Olbia. A few restaurants operate on the island in summer. |
Tavolara, Sardinia
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