Is it better to stay in North or South Sardinia?
North or South Sardinia depending on the type of holiday
Some of the best places to stay on Sardinia are found in the island's main centres: from Olbia, ferry port and gateway to the Costa Smerelda; to lively Iglesias with its Catalan charms; elegant Oristano with its boutiques and fine restaurants; and Caligari and Bosa with their incredible Medieval architecture.
- Costa Smeralda. ...
- The Gulf of Orosei. ...
- Nuraghe Su Nuraxi. ...
- Neptune's Grotto. ...
- The ancient town of Tharros. ...
- La Pelosa beach. ...
- The Valley of the Moon.
Verdict: North
The north has more hills, rocks and coves so there are less of the longer sandy beaches that are characteristic of the south. As a result the north has some more stunning bays. In fact in the 12 Breathtaking Family-Friendly Beaches in Sardinia, you can see most of the best beaches are in the north.
In Cagliari, Sant'Elia, San Michele, Is Mirrionis districts are areas where drug dealing and petty crimes are most common, and best avoided at night.
Olbia is the airport for the Costa Smeralda, e.g. Porto Cervo - which doesn't really get going till July and August. Cagliari is of course the capital city of the island, so offers more "culture" but it isn't a beach resort, though not far from beaches.
What is the most expensive part of Sardinia? The most expensive part of Sardinia is by far, the Costa Smeralda, which is the northeastern part of the island (which incudes Olbia, Porto Cervo, La Maddelena and Santa Teresa.) Its home to some spectacular beaches and stunning views, and world-class resorts.
As most visitors come for the beaches, you'll find yourself moving around a lot and this takes time. For a first-time visitor, you really need at least 10 days to see a good portion of Sardinia. 10 days, and 3 different bases, will let you explore most of the island's highlights, though just the surface.
Costa Smeralda is the most expensive locations in Europe. House prices reach up to 300,000 euros ($392,200) per square meter.
The two main airports in north Sardinia are Alghero Airport and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport which have many international routes with major airlines. The Alghero Airport is located on the western side of the island, making it the best base if you plan to explore the north west of Sardinia.
Is Sicily or Sardinia better?
Though Sicily has its beaches and resorts, they tend not to be as developed as you might find on Sardinia. Historical site abound. The interior too is rugged, and day trips could involve nature, but also offer more established cities and towns. It really is a matter of personal preference!
To drive a loop or Sardinia takes around 12 hours – best experienced over a week or more. There are no motorways in Sardinia, but the roads, in general, are in good condition. There are no toll roads so all roads are free. Be aware of speed limits – usually 90km/h on main roads and 50km/h in villages, towns and cities.
Cagliari is a must see city and the incredible sweeps of pristine beaches in perfect for those looking for a beach holiday in Sardinia. Though lacking the drama of the Northern half of the Island, Southern Sardinia is effortlessly romantic and gloriously beautiful.
A. It takes about 4 hours to drive North to South, and 2 1/2 hours from West to East depending on where you cross as from Alghero (NW) to Olbia (NE) takes approximately 1 1/4 hours. There are no motorways as such but good A roads such as from Sassari to Cagliari and from Sassari to Olbia.
Sardinia is a windy island, especially from October to April, because of the Maestrale, the northwest wind, which blows from France (where it is called Mistral), and affects particularly the western and northern Sardinia, but also because of the Ponente, which blows from the west.
It's not exact to say that there is no mafia. Sardegna has had, and partly still has, kinds of bandits gangs specialized in kidnapping rich people hiding them between the hinterland mountains.
There isn't a lot of traffic on the streets of the Island, although some peak traffic may occur in August. In Sardinia, you can move around on trains and buses, but if you want to discover the island with full freedom, use a car, motorcycle or even a bicycle.
Some of the cleanest waters you'll ever swim in are for sure the crystal waters of the pristine beaches of Sardinia, and S'Archittu beach might just be one of these. I was born and raised in Sardinia and traveled to many countries myself but still, I find Sardinia beaches the most unspoiled.
Olbia has a lot to offer for tourists. You can explore the historic old town, visit the Basilica of San Simplicio, and enjoy the beautiful beaches nearby. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby islands, such as Tavolara and Molara.
Olbia, like much of Italy, is generally a very safe destination. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas, tourist spots, and on public transportation. However, it's not a common problem specific to Olbia.
Which is more beautiful Corsica or Sardinia?
Sardinia vs Corsica as a beach holiday destination
Sardinia, almost 3 times the size of Corsica, has a longer coastline (over 1000km!) and therefore a longer stretch of beautiful beaches to choose from - however, Corsica's turquoise waters and unspoiled sandy beaches are the equal of Sardinia's for beauty.
For travellers on a budget
Between them, northern towns of Alghero and Olbia probably have the widest range of resorts on Sardinia – they're a good place to start if you're after a cheaper holiday to Sardinia. Island capital Cagliari covers most budgets and had a nice beach of its own in Spiaggia del Poetto.
Set around a bay backed by low, rocky hills covered in pine trees and overlooking beaches, Porto Cervo remains a magnet for the global rich, who are drawn to its cachet, privacy and natural surroundings, according to Daniela Ciboddo, of Engel & Völkers Costa Smeralda.
Chosen by many as a summer and beach destination, Sardinia is famous for the clear and pristine waters, awarded time after time, and for the variety of its coasts.
Unless you're a fan of scorching temperatures and vacation crowds, the best time to visit Sardinia is the shoulder months of April to May and September to October. It's still warm enough to swim in the sea and infinitely better for taking to the country's biking and hiking trails.
References
- https://travelalamer.com/sardinia-italy-travel-guide/
- https://www.cravetheplanet.com/mirto-drink/
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-14523-6
- https://italy4real.com/sardinia-or-sicily/
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-better-choice-to-visit-Sardinia-or-Sicily
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirto_(liqueur)
- https://www.directferries.com/ferries_from_rome_to_sardinia.htm
- https://phys.org/news/2021-03-uniqueness-basque-genetics-revealed.html
- https://www.en-vols.com/en/getaways/travel/sardinia-most-beautiful-places/
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/flight-information/sardinia-airports
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Costa_Smeralda
- https://www.insider.com/sardinia-blue-zone-superagers-longevity-2023-8
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6168346/
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/guide/history
- https://www.dolomitemountains.com/blog/beyond-the-dolomites/sardinia/whats-to-drink-in-sardinia/
- https://www.tui.co.uk/holidays/weather/europe/italy/sardinia/october.html
- https://www.britannica.com/place/Sardinia-island-Italy
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187879-i466-k3307234-Corsica_vs_Sardinia-Sardinia.html
- https://www.sardissimo.it/prodotti-sardi.asp?cat=15&ver=en¤cy=eur
- https://www.sardiniaslowexperience.com/sardinia-different-diverse-unique/
- https://www.responsiblevacation.com/vacations/sardinia/travel-guide/best-time-to-visit-sardinia
- https://www.thehotelguru.com/best-hotels-in/italy/sardinia
- https://www.charmingsardinia.com/sardinia/what-is-sardinia-famous-for
- https://sportsparadise-kitesurf.com/en/blog/wind-and-weather-in-sardinia-ideal-conditions-for-kitesurfing/
- https://www.capogalera.com/article/80/why-is-the-mediterranean-sea-so-clear/it
- https://www.wine-searcher.com/regions-vernaccia+di+oristano
- https://www.travelisland.it/travel/ITABY005/northern-sardinia-and-its-crystal-clear-waters.html
- https://www.seatemperature.org/europe/italy/sardinia/september.htm
- https://travelladies.app/safety/italy/olbia
- https://www.bluezones.com/2017/08/longevity-link-how-and-why-wine-helps-you-live-longer/
- https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/babies-and-swimming
- https://www.mansionglobal.com/articles/an-ultra-exclusive-town-on-sardinias-emerald-coast-205708
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/blog/top-10-beaches-in-sardinia
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/blog/fava-beans-longevity-and-sardinian-cannonau-wine
- https://sardiniarevealed.com/sarchittu-beach-cuglieri-guide/
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.2050-411X.1988.tb00573.x
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/blog/top-10-eats-in-sardinia
- https://sardiniarevealed.com/how-to-get-to-sardinia-from-rome/
- https://www.alovelyplanet.com/sardinia-road-trip-1-week-itinerary/
- https://www.hotels.com/go/france/best-things-to-do-corsica
- https://www.quora.com/Why-is-there-no-mafia-in-Sardinia
- https://www.villanovo.com/magazine/article-how-do-you-choose-between-corsica-and-sardinia-for-your-holiday
- https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/528568
- https://www.enjoytravel.com/en/travel-news/places-to-visit/corsica-vs-sardinia
- https://www.sardegnaturismo.it/en/plan/how-get-around-sardinia
- https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/swimmers-beware-july-is-the-dangerous-month-to-go-lake-swimming
- https://www.thomascook.com/holidays/weather/italy/sardinia/may/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardinian_people
- https://www.charmingsardinia.com/sardinia/flight_to_sardinia.html
- https://astorwines.com/item/10962
- https://adventureyogi.com/blog/sardinia-in-may-everything-to-see-do-sardinia/
- https://travelladies.app/safety/italy/sardinia
- https://www.familyholidays.info/sardinia/which-part-is-better/
- https://www.letregrazie.it/en/banana-organic-from-sardinia/
- https://www.google.com/travel/flights/flights-from-rome-to-sardinia.html
- https://www.tui.co.uk/holidays/weather/europe/italy/sardinia/august.html
- https://www.kissfromitaly.com/en/blog/costa-smeralda-playground-of-the-rich-and-famous
- https://www.quora.com/Are-Sardinia-and-Corsica-languages-related
- https://www.tinyfootstepstravel.com/is-sardinia-expensive-in-2023/
- https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g187139-i701-k3544379-Is_Corsica_expensive-Corsica.html
- https://www.quora.com/Would-you-choose-to-spend-1-week-in-either-Sicily-Malta-or-Sardinia
- https://www.responsibletravel.com/holidays/sardinia/travel-guide/best-time-to-visit-sardinia
- https://strictlysardinia.com/is-sardinia-safe/
- https://www.dolceterra.com/products/mirto-liqueur-balsamic-scent-with-hints-of-mediterranean
- https://www.nationalia.info/profile/12/corsica
- https://www.thomascook.com/holidays/weather/italy/sardinia/october/
- https://www.surf-forecast.com/breaks/Badesi/seatemp
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardinia_and_Corsica
- https://strictlysardinia.com/is-sardinia-expensive/
- https://sardiniafarm.com/what-beer-do-they-drink-in-sardinia/
- https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g187879-i466-k9846030-Do_I_fly_to_Olbia_or_Cagliari-Sardinia.html
- https://www.findingouradventure.com/travel-diaries/exploring-north-sardinia-a-travel-guide-for-authentic-experiences-and-hidden-gems
- https://corsicalovers.fr/en/is-corsica-worth-visiting/
- https://www.quora.com/Is-Sardinia-the-least-known-region-of-Italy-a-popular-travel-destination
- https://www.holiday-weather.com/sardinia/averages/
- https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/corsica-versus-sardinia/index.html
- https://www.justsardinia.co.uk/pages/why-sardinia/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardinian_language
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/blog/winter-in-sardinia
- https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g187886-i343-k1227210-Sicily_or_Sardinia-Sicily.html
- https://www.tui.co.uk/holidays/weather/europe/italy/sardinia.html
- https://www.essentialitaly.co.uk/blog/history-of-sardinia
- https://www.corsica.co.uk/blog/corsica-vs-sardinia
- https://sardawines.com/pages/the-grapes-of-sardinia
- https://isleblue.co/magazine/the-tantalizing-cuisine-of-sardinia/
- http://www.luluescapes.com/escapes/how-to-spend-10-days-in-corsica-everything-you-need-to-know
- https://www.thehotelguru.com/en-us/best-hotels-in/italy/sardinia
- https://www.sardatur-holidays.co.uk/blog/north-vs-south-sardinia
- https://archaeology-travel.com/travel-ideas/reasons-to-visit-sardinia/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardinian_surnames
- https://www.karasardegna.it/sardinian-spirits.asp?ver=en
- https://homework.study.com/explanation/did-the-vikings-invade-sardinia.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Sardinia
- https://www.italianbreaks.com/blog/sardinia-in-april/
- https://www.thomascook.com/holidays/weather/italy/sardinia/september/
- https://gretastravels.com/sardinia-out-of-season/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_conquest_of_Sardinia
- https://www.nxtstopsardinia.com/updates/sardinian-drinks
- https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/blog/guide-to-the-best-sardinian-cheese
- https://www.justsardinia.co.uk/pages/sardinia-corsica-combinations/
- https://mitaliakitchen.com/blog/drinking-like-an-italian-9-most-popular-italian-drinks
- https://www.livitaly.com/43497/
- https://blog.padi.com/mediterranean-sea-clear/
- https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/blog/ferry-news/sardinia-ferries-guide-tickets-offers
- https://www.charmingsardinia.com/sardinia/north-or-south-sardinia
- https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g187879-i466-k3307234-Corsica_vs_Sardinia-Sardinia.html
- https://www.britannica.com/place/Italy/Spanish-Italy
- https://adntro.com/en/blog/ancestry/sardinian_ethnicity/
- https://tripsupport.ca/blog/is-sicily-cheaper-than-sardinia/
- https://theculturetrip.com/europe/italy/articles/the-12-most-surreal-and-beautiful-places-in-sardinia
- https://www.cravetheplanet.com/is-olbia-worth-visiting/
- https://minorityrights.org/minorities/sardinians/
- https://waterworldswim.com/wws-international/italy-bonifacio-channel/
- https://sardiniarevealed.com/how-to-get-to-sardinia/
- https://www.unionesarda.it/en/sardinia/life-expectancy-in-sardinia-one-of-the-highest-in-europe-ggqkss5z
- https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0064:entry=sardinia-geo
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ajpa.23177
- https://www.britannica.com/place/Corsica
- https://goaskalocal.com/blog/sardinia-travel-guide
- https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/travel/a-wine-lovers-guide-to-sardinia/
- https://www.travelsupermarket.com/en-gb/holidays/italy/sardinia/
- https://www.beyondabroad.org/destinations/top-5-beaches-you-shouldnt-miss-in-sardinia/
- https://www.justsardinia.co.uk/pages/faqs/
- https://www.ltgawards.com/de-travel.html?id=ten-reasons-to-visit-the-island-of-corsica