Overview of Regions

Sardinia can be divided into four major travel regions — each with its own character, landscape, and highlights:

Northeast (Costa Smeralda & Gallura)

For whom: Beach lovers, sailors, luxury travelers
The Costa Smeralda is Sardinia's glamorous hotspot: emerald waters, granite rocks, exclusive marinas, and the jet-set town of Porto Cervo. Yet, beyond the glamour, the La Maddalena Archipelago with its dream beaches, the charming Santa Teresa Gallura, and the bear rocks near Palau await. The Gallura region is distinguished by bizarre granite formations and the unmistakable Vermentino white wine.

South (Cagliari & Surroundings)

For whom: Culture travelers, beach lovers, nature enthusiasts
Sardinia's capital Cagliari surprises with Mediterranean flair, the historic Castello district, and the famous Spiaggia del Poetto. In the hinterland, the Nuraghe Su Nuraxi (UNESCO World Heritage), the flamingo lagoons, and the wild Costa del Sud beckon. The island of Sant'Antioco and the mining area of Iglesiente complement the region.

West (Alghero, Bosa & Oristano)

For whom: Culture explorers, connoisseurs, individual travelers
The west is Sardinia's underrated side: The Catalan city of Alghero with its coral shops, the Neptune's Grotto at Capo Caccia, the colorful Bosa on the Temo River, and the Sinis Peninsula with ancient Tharros and the quartz beach Is Arutas. Fewer tourists, more authenticity.

Barbagia & Mountain Region (Gennargentu)

For whom: Hikers, culture enthusiasts, individualists
The wild heart of Sardinia: The Gennargentu Massif with its hiking trails, the Gorropu and Tiscali gorges, the Murales of Orgosolo, the archaic Mamuthones masks of Mamoiada, and the island's most hospitable villages. Here, you experience the Sardinia that tourism has yet to reach.