Sardinia East Coast Road Trip

Are you looking for an unforgettable experience? Then look no further than the Sardinia East Coast Road Trip! Starting in Olbia and ending in Cagliari, this 359km journey is best done over two days. Along the way you will pass through Arbatax and Villasimius, and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as beautiful beaches. The road is in generally good condition, although there are a few narrow and curvy sections. The best time of year to take this trip is usually from May to October. This road trip is perfect for any driver, and can be done on a moderate budget. You will create memories that will last a lifetime, and experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world!

Olbia is the perfect starting point for the Sardinia East Coast Road Trip. This charming Italian town is located on the beautiful Emerald Coast and offers plenty of sights and activities for all types of travelers. Olbia is home to some incredible attractions and monuments, such as the Church of San Simplicio, the Church of San Paolino, and the Church of Santa Caterina. Visitors can also explore the old town’s narrow streets and visit the Roman and Punic walls that remain today. To get a great view of the town, visitors can take the cable car up to Monte Moro and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline. Olbia is also home to some beautiful beaches, such as La Marinella, Pittulongu, and Lu Impostu. Visitors can also visit the nearby Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena Islands. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB). Car rentals are available at the airport for those wishing to begin the Sardinia East Coast Road Trip. Olbia is a great starting point for a road trip and offers plenty of attractions and activities for all types of travelers. From its ancient monuments to its stunning beaches, Olbia is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Start your road trip in Olbia, Italy, and be prepared to be enthralled by the beauty of the 177km drive to Arbatax. You'll pass through Orosei, and you'll want to take your time to explore the stunning countryside. As you drive, you'll be mesmerized by the narrow roads and the scenery. Keep an eye out for historical sites and stunning views. In Orosei, make sure to visit the beaches and the archaeological sites. After a few hours of driving, you'll reach Arbatax, where you can explore the harbor and the castle. Along the way, you'll find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. For more information about attractions and activities, check the Itinerary for this stage of the road trip. Enjoy the journey and make sure to take plenty of pictures!

Embark on a road trip from Arbatax to Villasimius, an exciting 131 km journey that will take you less than 3 hours to complete. Enjoy the scenic views of the winding roads, and be sure to take it slow in some of the narrower sections. Along the way, be sure to visit the ancient town of Tortolì and the beautiful beaches of Santa Maria Navarrese. Once you arrive in Villasimius, you can explore the picturesque coves, the archaeological sites, and the stunning natural scenery of the area. 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!

Welcome to the Villasimius - Cagliari road trip stage! This route is only 51 km long, and you can easily drive it in less than two hours. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the rich cultural and historical heritage of this area. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the narrow sections of the road, as well as for beautiful historic sites and breathtaking landscapes. Villasimius is the starting point of this journey and it is a great place to explore the local culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the ancient churches, the archaeological sites, and the old watchtowers. In Cagliari, you can explore the old city walls, the Roman amphitheatre, and the city’s many churches. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Cagliari is the perfect destination to end your Sardinia East Coast Road Trip. Located in the south of Sardinia, Cagliari is a lively and colourful port city, with plenty of attractions and activities to offer its visitors. Its Moorish-style old town, Castello, is a must-see, with its cobbled streets, views of the nearby bay and plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes to explore. Also, don't miss the beautiful botanical gardens of Parco della Musica, where you can admire a variety of plants, trees and flowers. When it comes to beaches, Cagliari has plenty to offer. Among the most beautiful ones are Poetto beach and Cala Fighera beach. Poetto beach is very popular among locals and visitors alike, and it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. Cala Fighera is a small cove surrounded by breathtaking cliffs, and it's the perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. For those coming by air, Cagliari Elmas Airport (airport code CAG) is the closest international airport. It's located only 8 km from the city centre, and it offers plenty of flights from/to major European cities. Your Sardinia East Coast Road Trip can be a great way to explore the island, and Cagliari is the perfect place to end it. Don't miss the chance to explore this lively and vibrant city, with its stunning beaches and landmarks.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating Road Trip along the eastern coastline of Sardinia, a jewel of the Mediterranean. The Sardinia East Coast Road Trip takes you from the vibrant city of Olbia to the historic capital of Cagliari, spanning approximately 359km (223 miles). This scenic voyage, ideally spread over at least two days, allows travelers to immerse themselves in the island's enchanting beauty, offering access to unspoiled beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a glimpse into the local Sardinian culture, all achievable on a reasonable budget.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Olbia: Your adventure begins in this dynamic city, where history and culture are intertwined. Visit the majestic Church of San Simplicio, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture in Sardinia, and the National Archaeological Museum, which showcases the island's rich history and heritage.
• Arbatax: This picturesque hamlet is famed for the striking red porphyritic rocks of Rocce Rosse, and the idyllic white sands and clear waters at Lido di Orrì, perfect for a refreshing dip in the sea.
• Villasimius: Not to be missed is the captivating Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, a haven for marine biodiversity, and the inviting Simius Beach, which is a hotspot for both relaxation and water sports enthusiasts.
• Cagliari: The Road Trip culminates in Sardinia's ancient capital. Discover the historic Castello district perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and sea. Relax on the famous Poetto Beach, or step back in time at the Roman Amphitheatre, one of Sardinia's most important archaeological sites.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time for this coastal journey is from May to October, when the weather is typically warm and sunny, setting the stage for perfect beach outings and exploration.

Potential Risks:

While the route is mostly straightforward, drivers should exercise caution on some of the narrow, winding Roads along the coast. The summer season can attract significant tourist traffic, and accessibility to some attractions may vary outside the peak season.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Sardinia's east coast is dotted with hidden coves and bays, making spontaneous beach stops an exciting part of the Trip.
• The island's culinary delights, such as the renowned pecorino cheese and the traditional dish of porceddu (suckling pig), provide an authentic taste of Sardinian culture.
• Early accommodation booking is advised, particularly during the summer months, to secure the best spots.
• A variety of car rental services are available in Olbia, ranging from economy to luxury vehicles, to suit your travel needs and preferences.

A good choice for:

The Sardinia East Coast Road Trip offers more than just a drive; it's an opportunity to forge unforgettable memories set against the backdrop of some of the most magnificent coastal landscapes on the planet. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a serene beach, exploring the craggy inlets, or delving into the island's ancient past, this Road Trip promises a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment that's hard to match.