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Sardinia Itinerary: 7 Days Road Trip
7 Days
3 Stops
Self drive
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Costa del Sud drive toward Capo Spartivento is the road I flag first on any south Sardinia itinerary: umbrella pines, granite headlands, empty coves, and a coastline most visitors based in the north never reach. A morning snorkel in the Capo Carbonara marine reserve earns more than a standard beach day; the posidonia meadows and visibility in protected water are at a different level from any open coastline nearby. For Cagliari, the view from the Bastion of San Remy at dusk over the salt lagoons frames the island better than anything from the beach.
The Costa del Sud drive toward Capo Spartivento is the road I flag first on any south Sardinia itinerary: umbrella pines, granite headlands, empty coves, and a coastline most visitors based in the north never reach. A morning snorkel in the Capo Carbonara marine reserve earns more than a standard beach day; the posidonia meadows and visibility in protected water are at a different level from any open coastline nearby. For Cagliari, the view from the Bastion of San Remy at dusk over the salt lagoons frames the island better than anything from the beach.
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Cagliari
Day 1
Set in the south of the beautiful island of Sardinia, the historic city of Cagliari serves as the capital city of this Italian island. This colourful city features picturesque squares, a lovely waterfront and tree-fringed boulevards lined with charming cafes. It is known for its centuries-old churches, ancient Roman ruins and amazing heritage buildings showcasing an array of medieval architecture. Visitors can view the hilltop Castello, the 13th-century Cagliari Cathedral, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari displaying a host of valuable artefacts. Visitors can also look forward to visiting Cagliari’s main beach, the vibey Poetto Beach, featuring gleaming white sands lapped by crystalline turquoise waters.
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Palazzo Doglio
Located in the most authentic Cagliari, Palazzo Doglio occupies the heart of the trapezoidal block between Via Logudoro, Via Goceano and Via Nuoro. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with Smart TVs, air conditioning and tea/coffee-making facilities. Guests can visit the on-site restaurants and bars and indulge in delicious meals and refreshing drinks. Facilities and services include Wi-Fi and a wellness centre.
Villasimius
Day 2 - 3
The breathtaking coastal town of Villasimius lies in South Sardinia, an hour’s drive from Cagliari. Calm, crystalline waters fringing soft sandy shores draw holidaymakers with their perfect swimming temperatures and idyllic views over the historic harbour of Porto Giunco, iconic landmarks such as the 16th-century grand Tower of Porto Giunco, and a gorgeous Stagno Notteri lagoon, home to flocks of pink flamingos. Discover the area’s heritage by visiting the excellent Archaeological Museum, filled with wonderful interactive displays set among ancient ruins and historic buildings. Nature lovers will delight in the marine-protected Capo Carbonara, where they can scuba-dive, hike along beautiful seaside trails, and spot dolphins. Dance the night away at popular clubs, dine at the local restaurants, or take it easy with a drink at the bars.
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Hotel Stella Maris
The Hotel Stella Maris is surrounded by a pine forest overlooking Campolongu Beach in Villasimius. The guest rooms and suites are bright, comfortable, stylishly decorated, and equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TVs, hairdryers and private bathrooms. The suites boast generous floor space, mini-bars, and comfortable sitting areas. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, serving delectable Mediterranean cuisine or relaxing at the American bar with a refreshing drink. Additional amenities and services include direct private beach access, beautiful gardens, a split-level swimming pool, expansive outdoor sitting areas, a tennis court, event hosting, yoga, a lobby lounge, parking and a reception.
South Sardinia
Day 4 - 7
South Sardinia boasts thousands of kilometres of spectacular coastline, beautiful beaches and incredible scenery. Fringed by the Mediterranean Sea, the South Sardinia coastline features crystal clear waters for relaxing days along the coast. Aside from the breathtaking coastline, visitors can also look forward to discovering Pula one of the prettiest towns in southern Sardinia; exploring the city of Cagliari, which is the capital of Sardinia; and visiting Chia, which is known for its pink flamingos and dolphins, and stunning sand dunes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit La Maddalena beach, windsurf on the small Frutti d'Oro Beach or snorkel through the underwater wonderland at Santa Margherita di Pula Beach.
Hotel Eliantos
Eliantos Hotel & Spa is located in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy, close to attractions like Spiaggia di Is Morus. The hotel features comfortably furnished guest rooms that are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, a flat-screen TV, a safe, a hairdryer, and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy Italian cuisine at the in-site restaurant during their stay. Additional facilities and services include a bar, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, and parking facilities.
From$1,800
per personAccommodations
Transportation
24/7 support
Activities
Meals
Tourlane App
Travel plan
Flights
Flexible cancellation policies
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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
This self-drive itinerary moves with the grain of the island rather than against it. Beginning in Cagliari, easing down to Villasimius, then spending the final days on the quieter stretches of the southern coast follows the natural logic of the landscape: start in the city, then let the coast draw you further south and further away from the organized circuit.
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One night in Cagliari is the correct call when the rest of the week belongs to the coast. Use the evening well: the Castello district at dusk, with views over the Gulf of Cagliari and a glass of Cannonau outside, is as good an introduction to Sardinia as anything more formally arranged.
Day 1: Cagliari
Hotel: Palazzo Doglio
The Palazzo Doglio is a well-restored palazzo in the lower city with immediate access to the historic center. The Castello district above is worth the climb in the late afternoon, when the light on the old fortifications is at its best and the city below takes on a different quality entirely.
Day 2–3: Villasimius
Hotel: Hotel Stella Maris
Villasimius has a well-earned reputation. Porto Giunco and Punta Molentis are consistently among the best beaches in the Mediterranean, and the Capo Carbonara marine protected area means the water clarity is exceptional even by Sardinian standards. A detail worth knowing: the smaller beaches south of Villasimius, reachable only by boat or on foot, are significantly quieter than the main strips and worth the effort.
Day 4–7: South Sardinia
Hotel: Hotel Eliantos
Three nights in the south gives you time to move through the lesser-visited stretches of coastline at your own pace. The rental car is essential here — the best coves and village roads are not served by public transport, and they reveal themselves only to travelers willing to take an unmarked turn and see where it leads. The Sardinian interior, even a short drive from the coast, is a completely different register: granite hills, cork oak forests, and villages where the pace of life has changed very little.
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Tips for your 7-day Sardinia trip
The best time to travel to Sardinia is during the shoulder seasons of May and September. The weather is perfect for a mix of beach relaxation and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with fewer crowds and more serene conditions than in 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 joining popular activities. For a budget-friendly trip, you can expect to spend about $90 per day.
Sardinia offers a blend of ancient history and natural beauty. Highlights include the Nuragic ruins of Su Nuraxi, the Roman ruins of Nora, and the stunning sea cave of Neptune's Grotto. For activities, you can take a sailing tour to the La Maddalena archipelago, go hiking on the coast, or simply relax on one of the island's many beautiful beaches.
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