Practical A–Z

Sardinia is a very safe travel destination — the crime rate is one of the lowest in Italy, and there are practically no dangerous animals (no snakes, no scorpions, no dangerous marine animals). The greatest risks are sunburn, dehydration, and the occasional wild boar herd on the road.

Medical Care

• Hospitals: There are well-equipped hospitals in Cagliari (Ospedale Brotzu — the largest on the island), Sassari, Olbia, and Nuoro. In smaller coastal towns, Guardia Medica (emergency doctors) are often stationed in summer.
• Pharmacies (Farmacia): Recognizable by the green cross. Available in every town and many villages, well-stocked. Opening hours usually 9:00–13:00 and 16:30–20:00, Saturdays only in the morning.
• EHIC: The European Health Insurance Card is accepted in public facilities. However, a travel health insurance is recommended — it covers private treatments and repatriation.

Sun & Heat

Sardinia's sun is intense — the UV index reaches 9–10 in summer. Sunscreen with SPF 50, a hat, and sunglasses are mandatory. Avoid the midday heat between 12:00 and 16:00 — all of Sardinia rests during this time. Drink at least 2 liters of water per day, more when hiking.

Safety

• Crime: Sardinia is extremely safe. Pickpocketing is rare, violent crimes against tourists are practically unknown.
• Road traffic: The real risk. On country roads, sheep, goats, and wild boars cross — drive carefully, especially at dusk.
• Wildfires: There is a high risk of wildfires in the peak summer months (July/August). Never leave cigarettes or glass bottles in nature. Call the fire department (115) immediately if you see smoke.
• Currents: On the west coast (exposed to the Mistral), currents can become dangerous. Pay attention to flags and do not swim far out during strong winds.

Sardinia is well-connected — in cities and tourist areas, there is fast internet, but in remote mountain regions, it can be sparse:

Mobile & Internet

Thanks to EU roaming, you can use your German phone in Sardinia without additional costs. Network coverage is good on the coast and in cities (4G/LTE), but in the Gennargentu mountains and remote valleys, the signal can be weak or nonexistent. Download offline maps (Google Maps) in advance — you may lose the signal in Barbagia.

WLAN: Hotels, restaurants, and cafes usually offer free WLAN. The speed varies — good in modern hotels, slower in rural agriturismi. Many agriturismi deliberately focus on "Digital Detox" — WLAN only in common areas, not in rooms.

Useful Apps

• Google Maps: Works reliably in Sardinia. Download offline maps for mountain regions!
• Moovit: Public transport schedules for buses and trains in Sardinia.
• Direct Ferries: Book ferry connections and check schedules.
• Sardegna Turismo: Official tourism app with beaches, attractions, and events.

Language

In tourist areas, English is spoken — in hotels, restaurants, and car rental agencies. In the interior, English is less common than on the coast. Basic Italian words open doors and hearts:

• Buongiorno (Good day) / Buonasera (Good evening)
• Grazie (Thank you) / Prego (You're welcome)
• Per favore (Please)
• Salute! (Cheers! — when toasting)
• Quanto costa? (How much does it cost?)
• Il conto, per favore (The bill, please)

What you absolutely must have with you in Sardinia — and what you need to pay attention to:

Essentials

• Sunscreen SPF 50 — The Sardinian sun is intense, even with wind. Especially important to apply well on children.
• Water shoes / Bathing shoes — Many of the most beautiful coves have pebble beaches. Also for protection against sea urchins at rocky entries.
• Hiking boots — Essential for Cala Goloritzé, Gorropu, Gennargentu, and Tiscali. Sturdy trekking sandals for shorter paths.
• Snorkeling gear — The water is crystal clear, the underwater world fascinating. Can also be bought locally at a reasonable price (10–20€).
• Reusable water bottle — Saves money and plastic. Tap water is drinkable in cities.
• Light windbreaker — The Mistral can become cool in the evenings even in summer, especially on the west coast.
• Mosquito spray — Near the coast and by the lagoons (Cagliari, Oristano), mosquitoes can be bothersome in summer.
• Socket adapter — Italian sockets sometimes have type L (3-pin, thin). German plugs (type C) fit most newer sockets, but an adapter doesn't hurt.

Practical Tips

• Beach rules: In Sardinia, it is forbidden to take sand, shells, or stones from beaches — fines up to 3,000€! The rule is enforced, especially at Is Arutas and Spiaggia Rosa.
• Respect siesta: Many shops and restaurants close between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Sardinia follows a Mediterranean rhythm — get up early, rest at midday, eat late.
• Dinner late: Restaurants open for dinner only at 7:30–8:00 PM. Sardinians rarely eat before 9:00 PM.
• Cash: Cards are accepted in cities. In mountain villages, small agriturismi, and remote beaches (parking!), cash is mandatory. Always have at least 50€ in cash.
• Fueling: Country gas stations close at midday and on Sundays. Self-service pumps (Bancomat/card) operate 24/7. Fill up when you can — in the mountains, the next gas station can be far away.
• Church visits: Covered shoulders and knees — as throughout Italy.