Sardinia Road Trip Itinerary
The Sardinia Road Trip is a great way to explore the beautiful Italian island of Sardinia. Starting in the city of Alghero and ending in the city of Birgi, the route takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and beaches in the country. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Bosa, Sant Antico, Arbatax, Olbia, and Lu Palau/Palau. The total distance of the trip is approximately 1078 km and can be completed in seven days. The best time of the year to take this trip is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition.
The Sardinia Road Trip offers an unforgettable experience that is suitable for all drivers. You will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, the picturesque villages, and the breathtaking beaches along the route. With a moderate budget, you can make this trip a reality and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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number of days
1,010 km
route length
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START
Alghero
Distance 1,010 km
Driving time 20.2 h
Pace: modest
262.6 kWh
Airports
AHO
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Alghero is a stunning coastal town located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Italy. It is the perfect starting point for the ‘Sardinia Road Trip’, an exciting journey that takes you to some of the most picturesque and unique places in the Mediterranean. Alghero itself is a charming seaside town, renowned for its cobblestone streets, Catalan-style architecture, and beautiful beaches, making it the perfect place to kick off your adventure.
If you are visiting Alghero by air, the closest international airport is Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). From here, you can easily hire a car and set off on your road trip. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy to choose the perfect vehicle for your journey.
Once in Alghero, there are a number of sights to explore. Visit the old town and take in the Catalan architecture, stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade, explore the historic churches, or take in the stunning views from the citadel. Nature lovers should not miss the Neptune Caves or the Neptune Grotto, with their incredible rock formations. There are also beaches around Alghero, such as the famous Bombarde Beach and the Lazzaretto Beach, which offer the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine.
So start your ‘Sardinia Road Trip’ in Alghero and explore all that this charming Italian town has to offer.
1
Alghero
- Bosa
Distance 56 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
14.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a stunning 56 km journey from Alghero to Bosa and discover the best of both cities! Start your journey in Alghero and visit the majestic Nuraghe Palmavera, an ancient structure dating back to the Bronze Age. Then, explore the Alghero Old Town and its cobbled streets, winding alleyways and colorful buildings. After that, take a stroll along the promenade of the Alghero Marina, where you can admire the views of the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Continue your journey to Bosa and visit its historical center, where you will find the Malaspina Castle and the Church of San Pietro Extramuros. Take a stroll through the beautiful streets of the old town and admire the colorful houses and the medieval architecture. Then, visit the Church of Santa Chiara, where you can admire the beautiful frescoes inside. Finally, take a boat ride on the Temo River and admire the views of the old town from the river.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. With a driving time of fewer than 2 hours, this is the perfect road trip for a day trip!
Bosa - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Bosa - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Bosa - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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2
Bosa
- Barumini
Distance 143 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: modest
37.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Bosa, a beautiful town in northwestern Sardinia, Italy! From here, you'll be taking a 147 km drive to Barumini. Along the way, you'll have a chance to explore some of the most interesting places in the area.
Be sure to make a stop in Macomer to visit the Nuraghe Losa, a megalithic structure built by the Nuragic civilization. Next, check out the archaeological site of Santa Cristina, the ruins of a Nuragic village located in the Gennargentu mountain range.
Continue your journey to the town of Barumini, where you'll find the Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the most important archaeological sites in Sardinia, and it's definitely worth a visit.
This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. With only a few hours of driving time, this is an ideal road trip for those looking to explore some of the most interesting places in Sardinia.
Barumini - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Barumini
- Sant Antioco
Distance 152 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
39.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Let's start in Barumini, Italy, home of the Su Nuraxi Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can explore the Nuraghe, a Bronze Age village. After that, you can drive to Sant'Antico, a small town located in the heart of Sardinia. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Nuraghe of Santa Vittoria and the Nuraghe of Monte Baranta. The drive is 159 km and should take less than 4 hours.
When you arrive in Sant'Antico, make sure to check out the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate, a Romanesque church built in the 13th century. You can also take a stroll around the historic center and admire the beautiful architecture. And don't forget to visit the nearby Nuraghe di Sant'Antonio, a Nuragic complex built in the 15th century BC.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Sant Antioco - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay
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4
Sant Antioco
- Cagliari
Distance 117 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: modest
30.5 kWh
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Are you ready for a spectacular road trip from Sant'Antico to Cagliari? This 127 km journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete and you will be able to experience some of the most beautiful places in Italy.
Start your trip in Sant'Antico, a small village located in the province of Sassari. Here, you can admire the beautiful architecture of the local churches, the historic buildings and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
As you drive towards Cagliari, make sure to take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to visit the archaeological sites of Nora and the Nuraghe Losa, two of the most important archaeological sites in the region.
Once you arrive in Cagliari, you will be able to explore the city's many attractions, such as the Roman amphitheatre, the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Bastione di Saint Remy. Don't forget to take a stroll along the promenade and visit the nearby beaches.
This is just one of the many stages of your journey, so make sure to pay attention to all the attractions, accommodation options, restaurants and campsites along the route. For more information, make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cagliari - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wallpaper Flare
Cagliari - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Needpix.com
Cagliari - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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5
Cagliari
- Arbatax
Distance 133 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
39.8 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip that starts in Cagliari and ends in Arbatax? This 144km journey will take you less than 3 hours and it is part of a larger tour.
In Cagliari, you should visit the historic Castello district and the National Archaeological Museum. There are also many lovely beaches, such as Poetto, Calamosca, and Sella del Diavolo.
The next stop is in Villasimius, where you can admire the beaches of Simius, Campulongu, and Porto Sa Ruxi.
Finally, your destination is Arbatax. Here you can explore the red rocks of the Cala Moresca and the nearby Tortolì Lighthouse.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Arbatax - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Arbatax
- Olbia
Distance 177 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: modest
45.9 kWh
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Are you ready for a breathtaking road trip from Arbatax to Olbia? This 210 km journey will take you less than 6 hours and will be full of amazing sights. Start your adventure in Arbatax, an old fishing village with a beautiful harbor and a stunning beach. From there, you can visit the Nuraghe Arrubiu archaeological site, a Bronze Age fortified settlement. As you drive north, you'll come across some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Make sure to stop at Cala Gonone and Cala Luna, where you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters or explore the caves. Further on, you'll reach Olbia, a charming town with a rich history. Here, you can visit the archaeological museum, the Roman ruins, and the Cathedral of San Simplicio. Don't forget to take a stroll in the picturesque old town and enjoy the local food. This is just a glimpse of what you can find on your journey from Arbatax to Olbia. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your engine and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Olbia - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Olbia - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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7
Olbia
- Palau
Distance 63 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
16.4 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip from Olbia to Lu Palau/Palau? This is one of the most beautiful stages of a larger tour, with 64 km of breathtaking views and fewer than 2 hours of driving time.
Start your journey in Olbia, a city located in the north-east of Sardinia, and take in the stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visit the archaeological site of the Church of San Simplicio, built in the 11th century, and admire the nearby Nuraghe Albucciu, a Bronze Age structure.
Continue your journey to Lu Palau/Palau, a coastal village located in the north of Sardinia. Make a stop at the beautiful La Pelosa beach, a white-sand beach fringed by turquoise waters. Visit the nearby Isola dei Gabbiani, a tiny island covered with lush vegetation.
This stage of your journey is full of beautiful places to explore. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Palau - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Palau
- Sassari
Distance 139 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: modest
36.2 kWh
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Welcome to your road trip from Lu Palau/Palau, Italy to Sassari! This stage of your journey will take you along a beautiful route of 140 km and will take you less than 5 hours to complete.
You’ll start your trip in Lu Palau/Palau, a small town located in the Province of Olbia-Tempio in the Italian region of Sardinia. Here you’ll find the archaeological ruins of the Nuragic civilization, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Church of San Pietro.
As you continue your journey, you'll pass through the towns of Santa Teresa di Gallura, Tempio Pausania, and Olbia. Here you’ll find the ruins of the Nuragic civilization, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Church of San Pietro.
You’ll then travel through the town of San Teodoro, where you can explore the archaeological ruins of the Nuragic civilization, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Church of San Pietro.
Your final destination is the city of Sassari, where you’ll find the National Archaeological Museum, the Cathedral of San Nicola, and the Church of San Pietro.
Along the way, be sure to take in the breathtaking views and explore the historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” section of this stage.
We hope you enjoy your road trip from Lu Palau/Palau to Sassari!
Sassari - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Sassari - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipédia
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9
Sassari
- Alghero
Distance 30 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
8.9 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Sassari to Alghero, a journey of only 30 km that will take you less than an hour. As you drive, take in the stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the lush countryside. Along the way, be sure to stop at some of the most beautiful historical sites. Visit the Castello di Sassari, an ancient castle that dates back to the 12th century, and the Nuraghe Palmavera, a megalithic archaeological site. In Alghero, explore the old town, with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria, a stunning Gothic-style church. Don't forget to take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, with its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Alghero - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Alghero
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If you are looking for an exciting road trip, look no further than the Alghero to Alghero stage! This 0 km journey will take you less than 0 hours to complete and you will be able to explore the best of what Alghero has to offer. Visit the old city walls, the historic churches, and the many monuments that make this city so special. Take a stroll along the marina and take in the stunning views of the harbor. Don’t forget to check out the many local markets and shops for some great souvenirs. Make sure to also explore the nearby beaches and take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Finally, make sure to visit the local wineries and sample some of the finest wines in the region. There is plenty to explore in Alghero, so make sure to make the most of your time here. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Alghero - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Palermo
- Castellammare del Golfo
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Experience a road trip like no other, starting in the vibrant city of Palermo, Italy and ending in the scenic town of Castellammare del Golfo. This stage of your journey is only 0km and can be completed in fewer than 0 hours.
Explore the historic city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and visit the Palazzo dei Normanni, the home of the Sicilian Parliament, or take a stroll through the vibrant markets of Ballarò and Vucciria.
Continue your journey to Castellammare del Golfo and admire the stunning view of the Gulf of Castellammare. Visit the ancient castle of Scopello, located at the foot of the mountain, and take a boat trip to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a protected area of the Mediterranean Sea.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Castellammare del Golfo - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipédia
Castellammare del Golfo - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Castellammare del Golfo - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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Castellammare del Golfo
- Trapani
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Start your road trip in Castellammare del Golfo, a picturesque fishing village in Sicily, and make your way to Trapani, an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage. Along the way, make sure to stop and explore the archaeological sites of Segesta and Selinunte, two of the most important ancient Greek colonies in Sicily. Visit the hilltop town of Erice, with its stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and its medieval castle. Don't forget to visit the salt pans of Trapani, a unique natural landscape, and the nearby island of Favignana, a paradise for snorkeling and swimming. On your journey, you'll find plenty of charming villages to explore, and delicious local cuisine to savor. With a distance of 0km and a driving time of fewer than 0 hours, this is a great stage of your road trip to experience the best of Sicily. Make sure to check the Itinerary for this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Trapani - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Pixabay
Trapani - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipédia
Trapani - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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Trapani
- Birgi
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Welcome to the Trapani-Birgi road trip stage! Starting in Trapani, you'll get to explore some of the most unique and interesting places in Italy. From Trapani, you'll get to visit the charming town of Erice, perched atop a mountain with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Then, you'll make your way to the ancient city of Segesta, home to a 2,500-year-old temple and theatre. Next, you'll make your way to Marsala, an old fishing town full of history and culture. Finally, you'll reach your destination, Birgi, where you can explore the old castle, the archaeological museum, and the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. This stage is only 0km and takes fewer than 0 hours to complete, so you'll be able to take your time and explore all the great sights along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Birgi - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Birgi
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The end of the Sardinia Road Trip is the charming town of Birgi, located in the southern Italian region of Sicily. This town is full of culture and history, making it the perfect place to finish off your trip.
Birgi is home to the impressive Castle of the Counts of Modica, a 13th century castle built by the Normans. The castle is surrounded by a large park, with several gardens and a large pond. The views from the castle are stunning and the park is a great spot to relax and take in the local atmosphere.
The town is also home to the Church of Santa Maria della Neve, a 12th century church that is considered to be one of the most important examples of Romanesque architecture in Sicily. The Church is full of beautiful sculptures and frescoes, making it a must-see for any visitor.
Birgi is also home to the historic Olive Mill of the Counts of Modica, a 17th century mill that is still in operation and produces some of the best olive oil in the region. The mill is open to visitors and you can even buy some of their locally produced olive oil.
For those traveling by car, Birgi is easily accessible from several major cities in the region, including Palermo and Catania. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Palermo Airport (PMO), located just over an hour away.
Birgi is the perfect place to finish off your Sardinia Road Trip. With its rich culture and history, it is sure to leave you with fond memories of your time in Sicily.
Sardinia Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Alghero
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End:
Birgi
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Distance:
1,010 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
A Sardinia Road Trip is a captivating adventure that takes you through the heart of the Mediterranean to explore Sardinia's diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. Spanning from the historical city of Alghero to the serene Birgi area, the journey covers around 1078 km of picturesque routes. This expedition is a treasure trove for those who love unspoiled coastal scenes, quaint villages, ancient ruins, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Alghero: Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town, dive into the Neptune's Grotto, and snorkel above the vibrant coral reefs.
- Bosa: Admire the pastel-colored houses along the Temo River and explore the medieval Castello Malaspina.
- Sant'Antioco: Learn about the island's history at the archaeological museum and visit the traditional salt pans still in operation.
- Arbatax: Be awed by the striking porphyritic cliffs known as the Red Rocks against the backdrop of the blue sea.
- Olbia: A bustling port city that serves as the main connection to the glamorous Costa Smeralda, famous for its elite attractions and pristine beaches.
- Palau: The starting point for boat excursions to the breathtaking Maddalena Archipelago, a natural maritime park.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time to embark on a Sardinia Road Trip is from April to June or from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, the landscape is vibrant, and the beaches are less crowded, providing a serene experience.
Potential Risks:
Driving in Sardinia may present challenges such as narrow, winding Roads and local driving customs, particularly in the high season when Roads can become congested. Vigilance and adaptability are key to navigating safely.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Sardinia is home to the Nuragic civilization, with thousands of nuraghi – ancient stone structures – dotting the landscape.
- The island boasts one of Europe's longest coastlines, with nearly 2,000 km of shoreline to explore.
- Sardinia's interior is a mosaic of rugged mountains, forests, and remote hilltop villages where age-old traditions are still alive.
- The island's unique cuisine includes traditional dishes such as porceddu (roasted suckling pig) and culurgiones (stuffed pasta), complemented by indigenous grape varieties like Cannonau and Vermentino.
A good choice for:
A Sardinia Road Trip is more than a journey; it's an immersive experience where the allure of Italy meets the mystery of an ancient island culture. For those with a love of the open Road, this Trip promises a blend of scenic beauty, historical depth, and the opportunity to indulge in the laid-back island lifestyle. Whether you're a history buff, a beachcomber, or a foodie, Sardinia has something special in store for you.
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