Top 10 “Must See” Attractions in Sardinia

1. Emerald Coast (Costa Esmeralda)

This strictly defined 10-kilometre strip of coastline in the Northeast is still the most famous address in Sardinia for elegance and luxury, and is the “The Hotspot” for the international jetset.

The architecture of Porto Cervo as its “capital” embodies the dream of an idyllic Mediterranean village without any irritations of real life… Porto Cervo exults in its exclusivity, with a glittering yachting marina as its centerpiece.

Don´t be suprised to meet Kate Moss, Flavio Briatore or Silvio Berlusconi when you sip a coffee in one of the gorgeous little bars in the grotto-like shopping arcade in Porto Cervo´s centre. And be sure to admire all of the Super Yachts anchored just offshore!

2. Tavolara

The Island of Tavolara belongs to a protected marine area in the Northeast of Sardinia which is rich in Mediterranean colours with a numerous series of inlets, sandy beaches, stunning bays and promontories.

The Tavolara is a true limestone edifice that is  600 meters  high, 4 km long and 1 km wide. Its plateau really looks like a big table. The high cliffs drop straight into a uniquely coloured sea creating a perfect marine sanctuary where sea species which are strictly protected.

The present King Tonino runs “Da Tonino,” one of the two quaint little restaurants on the island that offer extraordinary fresh seafood.

Don´t miss the unique opportunity to visit the “Cinema Tavolara” if you visit Sardinia around the 20th of July when the island hosts a famous event called „Una Notte In Italia“ (One Night In Italy). For three evenings a variety of independent Italien movies are presented underneath the stars in the beauty of a wild and romantic scenery.

3. Cagliari´s Old Town

Cagliari´s Castello quarter is the most atmospheric part of Sardinia´s capital in the South of the island, a dense warren of alleys girded by thick walls.

Walk the streets of this historical district and discover the cosmopolitan flair of this unique town where culture, folklore and cuisine are not clichés. You´ll find a great range of restaurants and lively places for ice creams and late-night drinks around the Via Sardegna, Via Roma and Piazza Yenne.

4. Alghero

Alghero on the Northwest coast of Sardinia is real treasure with a strong Catalonian influence. It underwent Spanish colonisation for a lengthy period of time which left its mark on the local language and in many vivid traditions.

The old town centre on the sea front with its architecture, the labyrinthine network of narrow, car-free lanes and quaint little shops is reminiscent of the Gothic quarter in Barcelona.

Numerous bars, cafes and restaurants preserve Alghero’s reputation for excellent wines and seafood like the famous „Aragosta alla Catalana“ (Catalonian–style Lobster).

5. Cala Gonone

Hugging the coastline at the base of the mountains, Cala Gonone was once only accessible by boat.

A tunnel carved through the mountains now connects this town to Dorgali, the centre of the renowened Cannonau wine-growing region in the East of Sardinia.

Cala Gonone’s profound beauty and hidden charm is all about its high mountains, archaeological wonders, a postcard-perfect harbor and secluded beaches – including the famed Cala Luna, where both versions of the film “Swept Away”, the 1975 original and 2001 Madonna remake, were filmed.

The Bue Marino Grotto near Cala Gonone is definitely worth a visit and can be accessed only by boat. ” La Grotta del Marino” is famous for being one of the last habitats of the monk seal and for the height of some of the caves. There are traces that show the presence of man since ancient times as early as the Neolithic Age, when it was probably used as a place of worship.

6. Chia

The area around Chia in the South combines a deserted cliff-hung coastline sheltering numerous idyllic small beaches in a perfect way and is definitely a “Must see”!

7. Carloforte

Carloforte is a picturesque fishing village located on Isola di San Pietro (Saint Peter’s Island), world renowned for it’s tuna fish, which is coveted by the best restaurants in Japan.

Located approximately 7 km from the South Western Coast of Sardinia, its pastel-coulored houses and cobbled streets, Carloforte maintains the charm and intrigue of an ancient village.

The “Girotonno” is the main event of the summer which crowns this tasty fish dish, prepared in thousands of ways, as king of the cuisine, in a huge feast of flavours and taste and everyone is invited to attend!

8. Castelsardo

The small town of Castelsardo in the North of Sardinia is set on a rock overlooking the sea and an extraordinary example of Medieval town that developed around the castle, with the old town walls still intact.

The historical town centre is no doubt the most interesting part. In the surrounding area the Elephant Rock, a prehistoric tomb that was shaped like an elephant by the atmospheric agents, is worth a visit as well as the old monastery and a few nuraghes nearby.

9. La Maddalena & Caprera

La Maddalena is the only inhabited island of the Northeastern archipelago which is made up of 7 large islands and around 20 islets in the Strait of Bonifacio. From here you can easily reach Caprera where Giuseppe Garibaldi spend the last years of his life. His house and tomb are national monuments and can be visited daily from 9:00am to 6:00 pm

The Maddalena Seapark is an irresistible attraction for those who love the sun, the sea and seek a one-of-a-kind connection to nature in its purest form.

10. Capo Testa & Santa Teresa Gallura

Capo Testa is the most Northern point of Sardinia. The rocky coast has been shaped by the winds of time, transforming the immense granite stone into sculptures that will peak your imagination. An old lighthouse, overlooking Cala di Luna, casts its guiding light to the white cliffs that mark the entrance to the port of Bonifacio, Corsica.

Neighbouring Santa Teresa Gallura with its unique natural harbour is a portrait of an enchanting costal village with excellent leisure facilities and the perfect base for a sailing trip to Corsica.

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This is our list from our Sardinina Charter Expert, Regina Laqua.  Please let us know your lists!  And be sure to read all about Chartering in Sardinia in our Sardinia Charter Guide.