An Introduction to Sardinia, Italy

Located in the western part of Italy, Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean. This incredible island is the perfect holiday destination if you want pristine beaches and lots of sunshine. Sardinia is also a place of valleys, natural monuments, archaeological sites, handicrafts traditions, jet-set style, and world-class wineries. Sardinia has something for everyone.

Must See & Do in Sardinia

Cagliari is Sardinia’s capital city. The historical center is worth a visit: the main Castle and the city’s Cathedral are fantastic spots, as well as the National Archaeological Museum, with its collection of objects and artifacts from the Nuragic civilization (the ancient Sardinian civilization). Cagliari also has a fantastic beach: the Poetto beach is one of the longest in Italy, boasting a seven kilometer stretch.

Sardinia’s countryside offers great views and ancient towns that will make your vacation special. Atzara is an ancient medieval village famous for its wine (the Mandrolisai) and textile tradition, especially carpets and ancient women’s dresses. Do not miss the “Le Vie dei Vigneti” trail, where you can admire the vineyards just outside the village.

Orosei is a stunning town in the Cedrino valley. The old town is full of churches, including the Church of Sant’Antonio, with frescoes from the fifteenth century.

Posada is a beautiful place on the east coast of Sardinia. Posada is a fantastic town to visit if you love culture and history! The best place? The central hill is dominated by the Castle of Fava, from which you can enjoy the amazing view of the sea and surrounding plain. Posada is a must-see also if you are looking for a more nature-center holiday. The sandy beaches and the lush green plain are perfect for relaxation and sporty activities, from kitesurfing to mountain biking.

Orgosolo is a one-of-a-kind village, an open museum. Everywhere in the Orgosolo, you will see paintings and murals. The town develops on the slopes of Monte Lisorgoni, and this spectacular natural landscape is the perfect place for hiking.

One of the most popular cities in Sardinia is Porto Cervo, the undisputed capital of the Costa Smeralda. If you want to immerse yourself in the jet-set lifestyle, Porto Cervo is the place to be! Shops and boutiques from prestigious brands, popular restaurants, luxury hotels, and the port filled with celebrities’ yachts are what summer looks like in Porto Cervo.

An unmissable destination in southern Sardinia is Villasimius. One of the most touristy spots in the region, it is a dream destination: lovely granite rocks and coves, blue sea, and green hills make Villasimius a must if you are in Sardinia for a beach vacation.

The Maddalena Island is one of the best places to visit in Sardinia. The island is part of the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena. Of its seven islands, La Maddalena is one of the biggest, a true natural paradise. The best spots on Maddalena island are Cardellino beach, located right after Monte di Rena, and Testa del Polpo beach, which is really wonderful and not-so-touristy.

Secret Gems of Sardinia

If you travel to Sardinia, nuraghi are the gems you should not miss! These are rocky structures from the Bronze age and the Nuragic civilization. While their traditional use is still unclear (they probably were defensive buildings), the nuraghi are perfectly conserved. The most visited in Sardinia is Su Nuraxi Nuraghe, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Visiting a Nuragic village will be a unique experience during your vacation.

Food & Drink of Sardinia

Sardinia’s particular geographical location gave birth to several gastronomic peculiarities in terms of ingredients and regional dishes.

Carasau bread is a typical food from Sardinia. Made of semolina flour, water, salt, and yeast, the carasau bread is used in several recipes, such as pane frattau. This dish is made with carasau bread, tomato sauce, and pecorino cheese, topped with a poached egg.

As for pasta, try the typical shape called malloreddus, also known as gnocchetti sardi. The shape of this pasta represents a calf, the malloreddus, which symbolizes prosperity in the Sardinian tradition.

Another traditional ingredient is fregola, a larger cous cous made of semolina. You can find fregola with every condiment: meat, seafood, and vegetables.

Sardinia’s most characteristic main dish is porceddu (pig). The meat is cooked on the skewer vertically, on olive or juniper embers, or by placing it in a hole on myrtle embers. Enjoy porceddu accompanied with a bottle of red Cannonau.

If you would like to end your meal in Sardinian fashion, you should order seadas (fried ravioli filled with sheep cheese and covered with warm honey) and drink a glass of Malvasia or myrtle liqueur.