One Week in Sardinia – West Coast Itinerary (7 Days)

West Sardinia Itinerary (7 Days)

When we planned our trip to Sardinia, we weren’t sure what to expect from the island’s west coast.

Everyone is always talking about the East Coast, but no one ever mentions the West Coast. That might mean the West Coast isn’t worth it, but our experience has been different.

We can confidently say it’s one of the most rewarding road trips we’ve ever taken in Italy.

We especially loved the diversity and the overall atmosphere. We loved the historic towns just as much as the rugged coastline.

We also saw parts of the northern part of the island that were completely different but still well worth seeing.

This itinerary is based on our own experience traveling there, with a mix of personal highlights and practical advice to make your trip smoother:

• A complete 7-day west Sardinia itinerary (without the hassle of changing hotels every night)
• Day-by-day suggestions for mornings, afternoons, and evenings
• Insider tips and details we learned on the road
• Extra guidance on the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay, what to eat, and what budget to plan for

The route starts in Alghero, continues along the west coast with its cute little towns and untouched beaches that rival the Gulf of Orosei, and finishes near the glamorous Costa Smeralda.

For us, this western Sardinia road trip was the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.

If you’re looking for a Mediterranean escape with fewer crowds and a more authentic vibe, this journey is for you.

Let’s break it down day by day.

• Day 1: Alghero & Spiaggia di Maria Pia
• Day 2: Capo Caccia & Porto Ferro Beach
• Day 3: Castelsardo
• Day 4: Tempio Pausania, Turtles and Costa Paradiso
• Day 5: Capo Testa & Cala Spinosa
• Day 6: Porto Cervo
• Day 7: Palau

Our Top 3 Hotel Picks in West Sardinia:

• Luxury: Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA
• Mid-Range: Boipeba Guesthouse
• Budget: Monti Guest House Alghero

Day 1: Arrive in Alghero & Spiaggia di Maria Pia

Morning: Discover Alghero

Our west Sardinia road trip began in Alghero, a lively town on the island’s northwest coast that immediately won us over.

Alghero features Catalan-Gothic architecture, with a fortified old town and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. The town was completely different from any other place we had visited in Italy.

We started the morning wandering through the narrow lanes of the Castello district. With all the colorful buildings and little boutiques, it was simply impossible not to stop every few steps.

Don’t miss the Alghero Cathedral or the panoramic views from the sea walls.

If you love history as much as we do, you’ll also find traces of Roman ruins and centuries-old traditions woven into the city’s everyday life.

What makes Alghero even more appealing is its location. There is plenty to see in the area around Alghero, making it an ideal base for exploring Sardinia’s west coast.

Afternoon: Spiaggia di Maria Pia

In the afternoon, we made our way to Spiaggia di Maria Pia, one of Alghero’s most inviting beaches and the perfect way to settle into island life.

The white sand and turquoise water instantly put us in a vacation mood. Even just the shade and fragrance of the pine trees between the parking lot and the beach give you that vacation vibe right away.

We loved how easy it was to spend a few hours here, whether swimming in the calm sea or just lying back and letting the travel stress melt away.

Even though it’s a popular beach, it never felt completely crowded. So you’re still in Italy, which means a little chaos is just part of the deal.

There’s plenty of space to spread out, and a couple of casual beach bars nearby where you can grab a cold drink or a light bite.

For us, it was the perfect soft start to the trip, a peaceful afternoon by the sea before the more adventurous days ahead.

Evening and Alternatives

If it gets too hot during the day and you’d rather explore the area from the water, Alghero is a great place to set out on a tour.
Still have some energy left in the evening? Alghero is also known for its sunset cruises.

If you’re not sure where to stay yet, feel free to check out our blog post on Where to Stay in Alghero.

Day 2: Capo Caccia & Porto Ferro Beach

Morning: Grotte di Nettuno

Day two starts with one of Sardinia’s most dramatic natural sights: the Grotte di Nettuno (Neptune’s Grotto).

This enormous sea cave is located at the tip of Capo Caccia. The limestone cliffs, which drop steeply into the sea, have been carved into the towering limestone cliffs. The view is simply spectacular.

You can reach it in two ways: either by taking a boat ride from Alghero or by descending the Escala del Cabirol, a staircase of 654 steps that zigzags dramatically down the cliffside.

We took the stairs. The path is definitely manageable, and the view is breathtaking.

Inside, we were blown away by the scale of the cave: huge stalactites hanging overhead, still pools reflecting the light like mirrors, and it’s not for nothing that the main chamber is called the cathedral hall.

Guided tours run every 45 minutes or so and last around 45 minutes. Tickets cost €18 (about $21), and while you can book ahead, we bought ours on site and only waited about 15 minutes.

Since you have to go through the cave to reach the famous cliffside stairs anyway, it’s absolutely worth going in. For us, this was one of the highlights of our entire Sardinia trip.

Afterwards, it’s worth stopping at Belvedere Foradada, just a short drive away. There’s a parking lot right at the viewpoint, and from there you get sweeping views of Isola Foradada.

Thanks to the angle, you can even see through the natural arch of the Gruta dels Coloms, a great sight that makes for incredible photos.

If you’re up for more adventure, you can tackle the hike up to the Grotta delle Brocche Rotte. Be warned, the path is steep and can be dangerous, so sturdy shoes are a must.

We started the climb but turned back halfway because of the heat. Even so, the views from partway up were even better than those from the parking area below.

The trail starts right at the Belvedere parking lot, so it’s easy to find if you want to give it a try.

Afternoon: Spiaggia Porto Ferro

After exploring the caves, we drove just a short distance north to Spiaggia di Porto Ferro, a beach that feels wonderfully wild and untamed.

There you’ll find gentle dunes and rugged cliffs. It really has a completely different atmosphere than the more manicured beaches around Alghero. We felt like we were discovering a wilder side of Sardinia here.

What makes Porto Ferro especially striking is its golden-orange sand, which is different from the white stretches elsewhere on the island.

The water is clear and refreshing, though it can get pretty wavy, which is why it’s a favorite spot for local surfers.

We especially liked how spacious it was. Even though there were other visitors there, it didn’t seem crowded to us for an Italian beach. It’s definitely less crowded here than at the beach we visited the day before.

It’s also worth noting that Porto Ferro is one of the few dog-friendly beaches in Sardinia.

Evening: Stroll through Castelsardo

If you don’t do what we did and stay in Castelsardo for the whole week, then take advantage of the late afternoons and evenings to take a trip to Castelsardo.

Arriving around sunset is worth planning for. Around the golden hour, the view of the town is simply amazing.

Castelsardo is often described as one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval towns, and officially belongs to ‘I Borghi più belli d’Italia’, a collection recognizing the country’s prettiest villages.

And from our own visit, we can honestly say it lived up to that title; it’s easily one of the most stunning towns we’ve seen in Italy.

Our stroll through the narrow streets of the Castello district felt like we were traveling back in time.

We loved browsing the little artisan shops of the town and watching locals go about their evening routines.

For dinner, we headed to Ristorante Spaghetteria Aragona, where we enjoyed fresh seafood with a view that stretched out over the coastline (as you can see in our photos), a perfect way to end the day.

Day 3: Castelsardo

Morning: Castelsardo & Roccia dell’Elefante

We started our day in Castelsardo, one of Sardinia’s most photogenic towns.

Castelsardo is perched on a hill with sweeping views of the sea and is a labyrinth of narrow streets and colorful houses.

We spent the morning walking through the historic center, stopping at the Castello dei Doria and the Cathedral of Sant’Antonio Abate, both of which reward you with panoramic views of the rugged coastline.

Admission to the Castello dei Doria costs €5 ($6). Tickets can be purchased directly on site.

As you stroll, keep an eye out for local artisans weaving baskets from palm leaves, a tradition that has been kept alive here for centuries.

For us, sipping some cold drinks while overlooking the sea was just as memorable as the sightseeing itself.

From Castelsardo, take a short drive inland to visit the Roccia dell’Elefante. This naturally eroded rock formation really does look like an elephant.

We weren’t sure if we should come here, but since it was on the way, we stopped. We didn’t have high expectations based on the Google images, but it actually turned out to be pretty fun. You can park right next to it and take some funny photos.

Afternoon: Spiaggia Lu Bagnu

In the afternoon, we cooled off at Spiaggia Lu Bagnu, just a few minutes’ drive from Castelsardo.

While it doesn’t have the fame of the Costa Smeralda beaches, Lu Bagnu completely charmed us with its laid-back vibe, perfect for a lazy afternoon by the sea.

The beach has a mix of wide sandy stretches and smaller rocky coves, so you can switch between sunbathing and a bit of snorkeling.

During high season, Lu Bagnu is especially popular with locals and Italian tourists, which adds to the lively atmosphere.

Even when it was busier, we actually enjoyed watching the bustle of families and friends gathering along the shore. It also makes a great spot to stay overnight, with easy access to many of the northern coast’s highlights.

As the day winds down, head back into Castelsardo for dinner with a view. We recommend trying a traditional pasta dish like fregola with seafood, paired with a crisp glass of Vermentino, Sardinia’s signature white wine.

We really enjoyed those moments in particular. Delicious Italian food in warm weather with a fantastic view.

Day 4: Tempio Pausania, Turtles and Costa Paradiso

Morning: Tempio Pausania

On the fourth day, we head inland, where the coastline gives way to ancient history and mountainous landscapes. Driving into the heart of Gallura, you’ll arrive in Tempio Pausania, a town built almost entirely from granite.

The atmosphere here feels strikingly different from Sardinia’s coastal towns (more alpine than Mediterranean), and the cooler mountain air is a refreshing change after days in the heat.

We really liked the old town with its quiet squares and granite houses.

Around the Cattedrale di San Pietro Apostolo, you’ll find some of the town’s most colorful corners, perfect for a relaxed wander.

Tempio Pausania doesn’t show up on most Sardinia itineraries, and that’s precisely why we liked it. It felt like a real town rather than a destination, and after a few days on the coast, that was exactly what we needed.

Afternoon: Parco Santa Degna (Turtles) & Costa Paradiso

After exploring Tempio Pausania, we made our way north to Parco Santa Degna, a small nature park that turned out to be one of the quirkiest stops of our trip.

Known for its freshwater springs and gentle hiking trails, the real surprise here is the turtles.

We saw them basking in the sun on the shore, which was the main reason for our visit here. We couldn’t believe there were actually turtles here. But yes, they really are here.

It’s a peaceful place to stretch your legs, have a snack, and enjoy a slower moment before heading back to the coast.

You can park right nearby, and it’s directly on the way back, just a few minutes from Tempio Pausania.

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Costa Paradiso, and trust us, the name doesn’t exaggerate. This stretch of coastline is jaw-droppingly beautiful, with pink granite cliffs, hidden coves, and some of the clearest water we’ve ever seen.

Unlike Sardinia’s broad sandy beaches, Costa Paradiso feels like a rocky coastal wonderland, where natural pools and beautiful bays make every turn of the trail a discovery.

Next encounter with wildlife: Be careful, there are wild boars here. Again, it was something we couldn’t believe until we came across the first one.

Basically, there’s no need to be afraid of them—just don’t feed them and keep your distance.

If you’re up for a short hike, don’t miss the path to Li Cossi Beach. The walk itself offers spectacular views, and it leads to a secluded bay where you can take a refreshing late-afternoon swim.

For us, it was one of those moments that perfectly captured the magic of Sardinia’s wild west.

Day 5: Capo Testa & Cala Spinosa

Morning: Capo Testa

Capo Testa is located at the northernmost tip of Sardinia, just outside Santa Teresa di Gallura, and was one of the more mystical stops we made.

Over the centuries, the wind and the sea have sculpted the granite formations here into shapes that don’t quite look natural.

It looks a bit like Mars around here.

From the parking area, it’s a short walk to the Capo Testa lighthouse. If the scenery around it weren’t so beautiful and the blue sky were replaced by storm clouds, it could just as easily be the opening scene of a horror movie.

On a clear day, you can even spot the French Island of Corsica shimmering on the horizon.

We loved hiking the coastal paths here. Wild, windy trails that lead past bizarre stone shapes, hidden coves, and a stunning coastline.

Afternoon: Cala Spinosa

In the afternoon, take the short path down toward the sea.

The best access point is at the Vecchio Molo del Faro, where you can slip straight into the water and snorkel across the entire bay.

This route also leads you to Cala Spinosa, a hidden cove just beneath Capo Testa. Because it’s often overlooked, Cala Spinosa feels like one of the island’s true hidden gems.

We’ve rarely felt such a strong urge to jump into the water as we did here.

But since our car was parked quite a distance away and we’d left our swimsuits there, we had to settle for just looking at it. It’s a good thing you have us, so we can tell you in advance what to bring.

There are no beach bars or sunbeds here, just some Sardinian coastline, so bring water, snacks, and anything else you might need if you plan to stay a while.

It’s a completely different mood from the Costa Smeralda. Rougher, quieter, less curated. We found that a relief.

If you’d rather stay dry (or maybe you forgot your swim gear, just like we did) and still enjoy the views, head instead to the Sea Lounge.

The prices are definitely on the higher side, but the combination of attentive service and a stunning panorama over the coastline makes it a worthwhile splurge.

After your beach time, consider a quick visit to Santa Teresa di Gallura.

It’s a good place to stretch your legs and get a coffee before moving on. The streets are narrow and unhurried, and the pace matches.

Day 6: Porto Cervo (Day Trip)

Morning: Marina di Porto Cervo

Welcome to the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia’s most famous and glamorous stretch of coastline.

Day 6 is all about exploring Porto Cervo!

Don’t worry, though, while it’s known for superyachts and designer boutiques, there’s plenty here to enjoy even if you’re not arriving by boat.

We parked our car at the free Porto Cervo car park.

From there, we first headed toward the north side and into Marina di Porto Cervo.

Walking all the way to the end of the pier gives you a great look at the marina and its polished atmosphere. We really loved the atmosphere; it had a sort of Italian feel to it, but everything was also very upscale.

Once you’ve finished exploring, the path loops back toward the parking lot. This is a good moment to pause for a short break and a drink before heading out to explore the second half of Porto Cervo.

Afternoon: Stroll Through Porto Cervo Town

After the marina, head into Porto Cervo town, a hilltop cluster of winding lanes, hidden courtyards, and whitewashed buildings.

While it was purpose-built in the 1960s, the architecture was designed to reflect traditional Sardinian style, with curved lines, natural materials, and coastal views at every turn.

We first stopped at the unique Stella Maris Church, from where we had a great view of the marina.

Then we continued through the small shopping streets, which are lined with designer shops.

Even though we’re not really into luxury shopping—and we’ve had our fill of it back home in Zurich—it’s a cool place to people-watch and enjoy the contrast between this polished side of Sardinia and the rugged west coast.

Next, we stepped into the Promenade du Port, where we took a break for a gelato at La Pasqualina (highly recommended).

This part of the island may not have the secluded coves you saw in Costa Paradiso, but it has a completely different kind of beauty.

There is also a Marina Area here, which is for really large boats. It is beautifully maintained and offers breathtaking views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

If you’re still craving beach time, consider a short drive to Spiaggia del Principe or Grande Pevero beach, two of the best beaches in northern Sardinia.

These spots offer classic white-sand beaches and calm, clear water perfect for swimming or lounging.

Day 7: Palau

Morning: Faro di Punta Palau

We wrapped up our Sardinia road trip in Palau, a scenic port town on the island’s northeastern coast and the main gateway to the La Maddalena archipelago.

Our first stop was the Faro di Punta Palau, a lighthouse perched on rugged rocks with sweeping views over the sea.

The walk to the lighthouse is short and easy. From here, you’ll have good views of the surrounding islands, including La Maddalena itself and even Corsica shimmering in the distance on a clear day.

It’s a fantastic photo stop and a quiet, beautiful place to take it all in before heading on to explore the archipelago.

Afternoon: La Sciumara

We spent our last afternoon in Sardinia by heading to Spiaggia La Sciumara. The beach is just a short walk from downtown Palau. It might not appear on every “Best of Sardinia” list, but that’s exactly what gives it its charm.

We enjoyed being at the beach, where you can simply soak up the sun and the sea while taking in the view of the La Maddalena archipelago.

If you still have some energy left, Palau is a great place to take a boat tour and explore the surrounding small islands.

We’d had enough of sightseeing by then and preferred to just relax and enjoy the afternoon.

These trips are among the top things to do in Palau, offering a glimpse of secluded coves, hidden swimming spots, and classic Sardinian white sandy beaches and turquoise water.

As evening falls, wrap up your journey with a seafood dinner back in Palau. The port is lined with restaurants serving the catch of the day, and dining with a view of the water feels like the perfect finale.

Over a plate of fresh fish and a glass of crisp Vermentino, you can reflect on your incredible 7-day Sardinia road trip, from the dramatic cliffs of Capo Caccia to the wild coves of Costa Paradiso, and finally the glamour of Porto Cervo before this peaceful farewell by the sea.

Best Time to Visit Sardinia

The best time to visit Sardinia depends on what kind of experience you’re after, but generally, late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–early October) are ideal.

During these months, you’ll enjoy warm weather, fewer summer crowds, and still have access to all the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities Sardinia is known for.

July and August are peak tourist season, especially along the Costa Smeralda and in popular beach towns like Santa Teresa di Gallura. We were in Sardinia during that time

While the sea is at its warmest and the atmosphere is lively, this is also when prices skyrocket, and beaches can get packed. If you plan to visit during these months, book accommodation and car rentals well in advance.

We were there at the time specifically to get that Italian summer vacation vibe.

In pictures, all those beach umbrellas might look a little intimidating, but lying somewhere on the beach while all the Italian families around you set up everything they’ve got is just a fun sight to behold.

Early fall is especially great for a road trip. The Mediterranean Sea is still warm for swimming, and the weather is sunny and comfortable.

You’ll also have a better chance of finding hidden gems and secluded coves without the rush.

Winter (November to March) is off-season. While Sardinia never gets too cold thanks to its mild climate, many coastal businesses shut down, and beach life slows to a crawl.

However, if you’re more into history, hiking, or exploring the island’s interior, it’s a peaceful time to visit.

We will definitely come back in the shoulder season next time. At that time, the heat is still bearable, and there are fewer tourists.

How to Get to Sardinia

Getting to Sardinia is straightforward, whether you’re coming from mainland Italy, elsewhere in Europe, or even further afield. The island has three main airports, Alghero (AHO), Olbia (OLB), and Cagliari (CAG), making it easy to choose a starting point that fits your itinerary.

For this West Coast itinerary, flying into Alghero is probably the best option. The airport is just a short drive from the city center and gives you quick access to the first highlights of the trip, like Spiaggia di Maria Pia and the Grotte di Nettuno. Budget airlines like Ryanair fly into Alghero from several European cities.

We flew to Olbia (OLB). The airport offers significantly more flight connections and is only 1.5 hours by car from cities such as Alghero and Castelsardo. We found the cheapest and best flight here.

If you’re already in mainland Italy, another great option is taking a ferry. Regular routes run from ports like Genoa, Livorno, and Civitavecchia (near Rome) to Sardinia’s main port towns, Porto Torres, Olbia, and Cagliari.

If you’re bringing a rental car or your own vehicle for a full-on Sardinia road trip, this can be a fun and flexible way to arrive.

How to Get Around

To really explore Sardinia, especially the West Coast and northern regions, having your own car is essential.

For this kind of trip, we always rent a car right at the airport. It’s not that expensive, and considering the convenience it offers, it’s really a no-brainer.

Public transport exists between major towns, but it’s slow, infrequent, and rarely connects you to secluded coves and nice beaches off the beaten track.

We had a rental car for the entire time and would highly recommend it to anyone.

It gives you full control of your route and lets you take spontaneous detours to places like Costa Paradiso, Capo Testa, and Cala Spinosa.

Sardinia’s roads are generally in good condition, and driving is pretty relaxed compared to mainland Italy. Just be prepared for winding coastal roads and the occasional herd of sheep crossing the road in rural areas.

Fuel stations are available in all towns, though in more remote areas, they can be few and far between, so fill up when you can.

Parking is usually easy outside the city centers and beaches, though some popular spots may charge during peak season. Use EasyPark, and you are fine.

Where to Stay

For our trip, we based ourselves entirely in Hotel Rosa Dei Venti in Lu Bagnu, a laid-back beach town just outside Castelsardo. It was a strategic and relaxed home base, allowing us to drive every day to the sights across the west and north coasts.

Staying in one spot helped keep logistics simple while giving us easy access to the coast, countryside, and charming towns nearby.

We have to admit, we underestimated just how big Sardinia is. Next time, we’d at least change accommodations once to save on travel time.

That said, if you’d prefer a more immersive experience with less driving each day, here’s a suggested breakdown based on this 7-day itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Alghero
  Stay in or near the historic center to enjoy the town’s nightlife, waterfront restaurants, and proximity to Spiaggia di Maria Pia and Grotte di Nettuno.
  • Luxury: Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA
  • Mid-Range: Boipeba Guesthouse
  • Budget: Monti Guest House Alghero
• Days 3–4: Castelsardo or Lu Bagnu
  Both offer excellent access to northern Sardinia, with Castelsardo bringing that old-world charm and Lu Bagnu offering quieter, pristine beaches right outside your door.
  • Luxury: Bajaloglia Resort
  • Mid-Range: Residence L’Olivastro
  • Budget: Hotel Rosa Dei Venti
• Days 5–7: Palau or Porto Cervo
  Choose Palau if you want access to the La Maddalena archipelago, local beaches like La Sciumara, and a more casual vibe. Opt for Porto Cervo if you’re curious about the high-end side of the Costa Smeralda, designer shops, yachts, and beautiful people included.
  • Luxury: The One Monumental Palace
  • Mid-Range: Hotels 705 Porto Prime Home
  • Budget: Rivoli Cinema Hostel

If you’re doing a full Sardinia road trip, switching accommodations in between makes sense. But if you’re after simplicity and don’t mind a bit more driving, one central location like Lu Bagnu works as well.

Where to Eat

We loved the food in Sardinia. We enjoyed everything from the seaside trattorias to the rustic osterias in the countryside.

During our trip, we tried everything from fresh seafood to hearty mountain dishes, and we were never disappointed.

For a night in Alghero:

• Al Tuguri – Refined Catalan-Sardinian dishes in the historic center.
• Cajò – Casual spot serving some of the best pizza in Alghero.

For a night in Castelsardo or Lu Bagnu:

• Ristorante Spaghetteria Aragona – Stunning views paired with excellent seafood pasta in Castelsardo.
• Bar Excalibur – Local favorite in Lu Bagnu with hearty portions at fair prices.

For a night in Porto Cervo:

• Crazy Pizza Porto Cervo – Legendary for its perfectly thin-crust pizzas.
• Clipper Porto Cervo – Fresh seafood in an elegant marina setting.

For a night in Palau:

• Ristorante La Gritta – Exceptional seafood with panoramic views of the La Maddalena archipelago.
• Ristorante Del Porticciolo – Pasta with bottarga and grilled octopus done right, in a relaxed setting

Language and Currency in Sardinia

The official language in Sardinia is Italian, but don’t be surprised if you hear locals speaking Sardinian (Sard), a distinct regional language with its own grammar, vocabulary, and identity.

In smaller towns and inland villages, Sardinian is still spoken in daily life, though most people also speak standard Italian.

In tourist areas like Porto Cervo, Alghero, and Palau, you’ll find English spoken at hotels, restaurants, and major attractions. That said, learning a few basic Italian phrases will go a long way and is always appreciated.

You can find the most relevant phrases here:

• Buongiorno – Good day
• Grazie – Thank you
• Il conto, per favore. – The bill, please
• Quanto costa? – How much does it cost

As for money, Sardinia uses the euro (€), just like the rest of mainland Italy. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and resort areas, but you may always need some cash for souvenirs, beach bars, or smaller trattorias in charming towns like Castelsardo or Tempio Pausania.

As mentioned, the EasyPark app is also widely used in Sardinia for paying for parking. You can store your preferred payment method in the app and pay by the minute.

ATMs are easy to find in most towns, especially in port areas and city centers.

How Much Does a Trip to Sardinia Cost?

A one-week trip to Sardinia can be surprisingly flexible in terms of budget.

On average, budget travelers in Sardinia can plan for about €80-100 ($88–110) per day, while a mid-range trip typically runs around €100–€180 ($110–198) daily. If you opt for upscale hotels, fine dining, or private tours, daily expenses can easily climb to €180 (198)$ or more. Prices here don’t include flights.

Prices vary greatly depending on the season.

Peak season (July–August) is the most expensive time to visit. Both flights and accommodation rates rise. For the best value, consider traveling in early fall or late spring, when the weather is perfect, and prices are more reasonable.

Here’s a rough breakdown for a mid-range 7-day trip for two people:

Category	Estimated Cost (EUR)
Flights (round-trip from Europe)	€200–€700 ($220–$770) pp
Rental Car (7 days)	€250–€400 ($275–$44)
Accommodation (mid-range hotels or B&Bs)	€70–€200 ($77–$220) per night
Food & Dining	€60–€100 ($66–$110) per day
Fuel & Parking	€180–€200 ($198–$220) total
Activities (tours, entrances)	€40–€50 ($44–$55) total
Total (2 people)	~€1.510–€3.250 ($1,661–$3,575)

Would we go back?

Without question. This part of the island caught us off guard in the best possible way, and a week felt like just enough time to scratch the surface.

Next time we’d travel in September, split our stay between two bases instead of one, and spend a full day on La Maddalena. There’s also a stretch of the east and south coast we haven’t touched yet.

If you’re planning your own trip and have questions about any part of this itinerary, drop them in the comments below. We read everything and do our best to reply.