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Northern Sardinia Road Trip Itinerary
7 Days
3 Stops
Self drive
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe SP105 between Alghero and Bosa is one of those drives that shows up on lists and still delivers: granite headlands, wild maquis, no guardrail between you and the Tyrrhenian for long stretches. It's the kind of road that reminds you why self-drive itineraries exist. Bosa as a single overnight is well-timed; you have enough time to climb to the Malaspina castle and find dinner by the river without overstaying what is a compact and quietly beautiful stop. The La Maddalena archipelago excursion is the one to confirm first: day trips to the protected islands fill weeks ahead in July and August, and the water between Caprera and Santo Stefano is among the clearest in the entire Mediterranean.
The SP105 between Alghero and Bosa is one of those drives that shows up on lists and still delivers: granite headlands, wild maquis, no guardrail between you and the Tyrrhenian for long stretches. It's the kind of road that reminds you why self-drive itineraries exist. Bosa as a single overnight is well-timed; you have enough time to climb to the Malaspina castle and find dinner by the river without overstaying what is a compact and quietly beautiful stop. The La Maddalena archipelago excursion is the one to confirm first: day trips to the protected islands fill weeks ahead in July and August, and the water between Caprera and Santo Stefano is among the clearest in the entire Mediterranean.
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Alghero
Day 1 - 2
On the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, the charming seaside town of Alghero is a leisure seeker’s dream destination. Situated in northwest Sardinia in the province of Sassari, this historic town is best known for its breathtaking beaches and stunning architecture. Browse the bustling historic centre and admire Gothic palaces, cafe-lined piazzas, and the excellent array of restaurants and bars that line the cobblestone streets. Must-see historic sites include the stunning Alghero Cathedral, as well as the Campanile Bell Tower, the City Archaeological Museum, the Church of St. Michael, and the Church of St. Barbara. Outside the old town, take a scenic boat cruise across the emerald green sea to explore the majestic Neptune’s Grotto, or hike along the many trails and enjoy sweeping ocean views at Porto Conte Regional Natural Park.
Hotel Calabona
With a stay at Hotel Calabona in Alghero, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Maria Pia Beach and Tarragona Park. This beach hotel is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Coral Museum and 1 mi (1.6 km) from Sulis Tower.
Head down to the water and enjoy a day at the private beach, or take advantage of other recreational amenities including a fitness center and a seasonal outdoor pool. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a banquet hall.
Make yourself at home in one of the 109 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms feature showers, bidets, and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Bosa
Day 3
Tumbling down the hill from the castle to the sea, Oristano, Sardinia, Bosa is a photogenic resort town offering its visitors a wonderful combination of beaches, nature, and heritage. Its breathtaking beach, calm, wide river, patches of lush grasslands and surrounding wooded hills lend the town an idyllic charm. Once an important royal town and thriving producer of leather that was shipped all over Europe, Bosa is packed with heritage architecture, and visitors can even see some ancient tanneries. The striking 12th-century castle - of which only the skeleton is left - is among the top must-sees, with its lovely chapel decorated with enthralling frescoes. The tranquil, warm waters and soft sands of the S'Abba Druche Beach lure travellers back to the coast, before the numerous wonderful bars and restaurants draw them back to the romantic cobbled streets of the old town centre.
Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso
When you stay at Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso in Bosa, you'll be in the historical district, just steps from Museum Casa Deriu and Sas Conzas. This hotel is 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Cattedrale dell’Immacolata and 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Church of Sant’Antonio Abate.
Take in the views from a terrace and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and a television in a common area. Additional features at this Beaux Arts hotel include barbecue grills and a banquet hall.
Make yourself at home in one of the 29 air-conditioned rooms featuring plasma televisions. Digital television is provided for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature bidets and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Baja Sardinia
Day 4 - 7
Set on the Gulf of Arzachena, Baja Sardinia is a popular beach resort town situated just a few kilometres away from the Costa Smeralda. Dotting the northeastern coast of Sardinia, Italy, this small resort town is home to a collection of villa complexes, upscale hotels, and luxury resorts. Visitors can look forward to relaxing on the pristine golden-sand beaches, discover the underwater world on a diving or snorkelling excursion and enjoy the many restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy an array of water sports activities such as sailing and windsurfing, relax on the beautiful Pevero Beach, and visit the scenic port of Porto Cervo.
Hotel la Bisaccia
With a stay at Hotel la Bisaccia in Arzachena, you'll be near the bay, just steps from Cala Battistoni and a 2-minute drive from Aquadream. This beach hotel is 9.4 mi (15.2 km) from Capriccioli Beach and 12.6 mi (20.3 km) from Portisco Marina.
Relax on the private beach or enjoy other recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). Getting to nearby attractions is a breeze with the area shuttle (surcharge).
Make yourself at home in one of the 110 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms feature showers, complimentary toiletries, and bidets. Conveniences include phones and safes, and housekeeping is provided daily.
From$1,200
per personAccommodations
Transportation
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Activities
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Flights
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Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
14+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
6+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
6+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Alghero to Bosa along the west coast, then north to Baja Sardinia and the Costa Smeralda — the rental car is what makes this trip work. The coastal road between Alghero and Bosa, winding above the cliffs with the sea on one side and the mountains inland on the other, is one of the most scenic drives in Sardinia and is in no hurry to be completed.
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A detail worth knowing: the La Maddalena Archipelago excursion from Baja Sardinia covers a group of granite islands in a protected national park, accessible only by boat. The water clarity there is exceptional, and the smaller islands between La Maddalena and Caprera are the most rewarding stops on the route.
Day 1–2: Alghero
Hotel: Hotel Calabona
Alghero's Catalan heritage — the language, the street names, the festival traditions — gives the old town a character unlike anywhere else in Sardinia. The waterfront bastions at sunset, with the sea below and the old town rising behind, are the right introduction to the island. The beaches north of the city toward Fertilia are long and considerably less crowded than the more famous beaches further along the coast.
Day 3: Bosa
Hotel: Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso
The coastal road south from Alghero to Bosa takes about an hour and a half, but leaving with time to stop at the viewpoints above the cliffs makes the journey its own reward. Bosa on the Temo River — the only navigable river in Sardinia — is one of the most painted and photographed towns on the island. The Malvasia wine produced in the vineyards above the town is one of the more interesting regional whites in Italy and worth seeking out at a local restaurant in the evening.
Day 4–6: Baja Sardinia
Hotel: Hotel La Bisaccia
Three nights on the Costa Smeralda coast gives you the beaches, the La Maddalena Archipelago excursion, and time to drive the coastal roads north toward Santa Teresa Gallura. The beaches and water north of Porto Cervo — accessible on smaller roads — are the more rewarding version of the same coastline, away from the main circuit.
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Tips for your Northern Sardinia road trip
The best time to travel to Sardinia for a road trip is during the shoulder seasons of May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant for exploring the coast and historic towns like Alghero and Bosa, while avoiding the intense heat and heavy crowds of the peak summer months.
On average, a week-long trip to Sardinia costs about $1,870 per person, excluding flights. This mid-range budget of around $270 per day covers a stay in a 4-star hotel, dining at local restaurants, and the cost of a rental car. For a budget-friendly trip, you can expect to spend about $90 per day.
A road trip in Northern Sardinia is a blend of scenic coastal landscapes and authentic island traditions. Highlights include exploring the medieval streets of Alghero, the picturesque coastal town of Bosa, and the glamorous Costa Smeralda. For activities, you can take a sailing tour to the La Maddalena archipelago or visit the historic ruins of Nuraghe and Roman towns.
A rental car is essential for a road trip in Northern Sardinia, offering the flexibility to explore the coastline and hidden villages at your own pace. To experience authentic island life, be sure to visit traditional markets and try local specialties, which are a must for any food lover.
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