Following my recent trip to Sardinia, in this guide I will share the best places to stay on the beautiful Italian island.
I have just returned from a week in Sardinia, where I visited various towns and areas.
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to some of the best places to stay that you can use as a base for exploring this fantastic Italian gem.
Sardinia is Italy’s second largest island (after Sicily) and a destination that had been on my bucket list for many years before I finally visited the island.
Where to stay in Sardinia? Let’s start with the travel guide.
Best areas in Sardinia
- 👉 Alghero – beautiful old town with a beach ⭐️
- 👉 Cagliari – the capital of the island with local life and good nightlife 🍹
- 👉 Olbia – a large town close to some of the best beaches in Sardinia 🏖️
- 👉 Porto Cervo & Costa Smeralda – Luxury hotels on the most beautiful beaches in Europe 🙌
- 👉 La Maddalena – Small island with a cozy town and beautiful beaches 🥰
- 👉 Santa Teresa Gallura – excellent place for families & vacation without a car 👨👩👧👦
- 👉 Bosa – Sardinia’s most beautiful & romantic town 😍
- 👉 San Teodoro – Cozy little town on a beautiful & child-friendly beach ⛱️
Click on the link above to see the best hotels in the area.
The guide to the best places to stay in Sardinia continues below.
1. Alghero – a fantastic, cozy town with a beach
Alghero, also known as “little Barcelona“, is a real gem on the north-west coast of Sardinia.
The city is a fascinating mix of Italian charm and Catalan heritage, embedded in its cobbled streets, Gothic buildings and the impressive city wall that surrounds the old town.
When you enter Alghero, it’s like going back in time – it’s a cliché, but in this case I think it’s true.
At least when you enter the old town at the harbor – the rest of the city is a bit like a classic Italian vacation town, if you can call it that.
See the best hotels in Alghero here. 👈
The narrow, winding streets of the old town are full of charming stores selling local handicrafts and cozy cafés where you can enjoy an espresso or gelato.
I also made a video showing Alghero (and Olbia, which I get to in this guide):
Numerous excellent restaurants offer everything from freshly caught fish and seafood to traditional Sardinian dishes.
But Alghero is not just for history lovers. The area is also home to some fantastic beaches in Sardinia.
The town’s own sandy beach is not the prettiest and sometimes smells a little of seaweed. So if you want to experience beautiful spots, you have to head to the more secluded bays of Le Bombarde and Lazzaretto.
The crystal-clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.
Alghero is also a fantastic starting point for exploring some of Sardinia’s most impressive natural wonders.
You can take a boat trip to the spectacular Neptune Caves, visit the nearby nature reserve Porto Conte or take a trip to the dramatic Capo Caccia.
Alghero is a city that has everything to offer – history, culture, beautiful beaches and fantastic food.
It is the perfect accommodation for those who want to experience the best of Sardinia, whether you are an adventurous traveler, a beach vacationer, a foodie or a curious tourist.
There is also an international airport, so you can reach your hotel quickly without having to travel far.
Best places to stay in Alghero
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best hotels in Alghero. I recommend hotels in or near the old town.
The 👉Hotel Catalunya in Alghero is a charming 4-star hotel in the heart of the town, close to the old town and the beach.
With over 100 modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and a fitness center, the hotel offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
The highlight is the panoramic roof terrace, from which you can enjoy an incomparable 360-degree view of the city, the harbor and the surrounding countryside.
With its excellent location and courteous staff, the Hotel Catalunya is the perfect starting point for exploring Alghero and the beauties of Sardinia.
Located in the heart of the historic old town of Alghero, the 👉 Palau De Rosa is a charming boutique hotel that combines comfort and authenticity, making it an ideal choice for travelers.
The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored building that exudes historic charm, but inside you will find modern amenities and elegant furnishings.
The Palau De Rosa is located near the narrow, cobbled streets, the historic churches and the beautiful fortress walls that make the old town of Alghero so distinctive.
Thanks to its central location, the hotel is also just a few minutes’ walk from several restaurants, cafés and stores.
The Palau De Rosa is the perfect choice for those who want to immerse themselves in the historic atmosphere of Alghero and at the same time have a comfortable and convenient base for their stay in Sardinia.
And then we have a classic vacation hotel with a fantastic swimming pool – but please note that this hotel is not in the old town!
👉 The Hotel Calabona is located just outside of Alghero and offers a quiet retreat that is still in close proximity to the best the city has to offer.
The 4-star hotel is located directly by the sea, and many rooms offer a magnificent view of the azure bay.
Although the Hotel Calabona conveys a feeling of peace and seclusion, it is only a short drive or a pleasant walk along the coast to the old town of Alghero.
If you are looking for accommodation in Sardinia that combines relaxation, comfort and convenience, then the Hotel Calabona is an excellent choice.
2. Cagliari – the capital of the island with local life
Cagliari, the largest city and “capital” of Sardinia, is located in the south of the island and is a metropolis full of history, culture and natural beauty.
It is a cosmopolitan city that pulsates with life and where you can find everything from exciting cultural experiences to delicious culinary adventures.
A stay in Cagliari allows you to experience the many facets of the Sardinian metropolis. Here you will find a vibrant cultural life with museums, theaters and galleries.
See the best hotels in Cagliari here 👈
Among the most famous sights and activities are the archaeological museum with rich collections from the island’s past and the Cagliari Opera House, where you can experience world-class Italian opera.
The historic center of the city, the old Castello district, is a must-see with its medieval architecture, narrow streets and panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Here you will find historical gems such as the Bastione di Saint Remy and a vibrant nightlife with trendy bars and restaurants.
And let’s not forget the city’s beaches. Poetto Beach, one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy, is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun or enjoy water sports such as surfing and kitesurfing.
If you love a city that also appreciates culture, history, gastronomy and access to beautiful beaches, Cagliari is undoubtedly an excellent choice for your stay in Sardinia.
Best places to stay in Cagliari
As in any other Italian metropolis, there are many good and less good hotels in Cagliari. Here are a few good accommodations in different price ranges.
We start with a hotel for those who want to stay centrally but don’t need the greatest luxury.
👉 The Hotel Due Colonne is an affordable 3-star hotel where you can experience everything Cagliari has to offer without breaking your budget.
Thanks to its ideal location in the city center, you are just a stone’s throw away from the harbor, where you can enjoy the sight of yachts and sailboats as well as a wide selection of restaurants and stores.
The hotel rooms are simple but comfortable and clean and have all the necessary amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom.
Some rooms even have a view of the harbor, which adds a special touch to your stay.
Hotel Due Colonne has a 24-hour reception and the staff will be happy to help you organize tours or give you tips on the best places to visit in Cagliari.
And then we switch to a more luxurious hotel.
👉 The UNAHOTELS T Hotel Cagliari is an oasis of style and comfort in the capital of Sardinia.
This 4-star hotel is the ideal accommodation for anyone who appreciates well-being, modern aesthetics and a high standard of service.
The rooms are spacious, bright and inviting, with an elegant design that reflects the modern charm of the hotel.
Every detail has been carefully considered, from the luxurious bedding to the stylish bathrooms, to ensure a relaxing and comfortable stay.
One of the highlights of the hotel is undoubtedly the indoor swimming pool, a perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also offers a wellness center with various treatments for guests who want to pamper themselves.
Although the UNAHOTELS T Hotel is located somewhat away from the historic center of Cagliari, it is easy to reach by cab or a 20-minute walk.
The quality of the hotel and its incomparable facilities make up for this minor drawback and make it an excellent choice for your stay in Cagliari.
- By the way, Unahotels also has excellent accommodation in Rome if you are passing through the capital on your trip to Italy.
👉 The Regina Margherita Hotel is a stylish and comfortable hotel in the city center of Cagliari.
This elegant 4-star hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to combine comfort with a convenient location.
The location is one of the main advantages of the Hotel Regina Margherita. It is located in the center of Cagliari, so many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance.
There are also numerous restaurants, bars and stores in the surrounding area.
The Regina Margherita Hotel is ideal for those looking for a comfortable stay in the vibrant center of Cagliari.
I would also like to mention the 👉 Casa Clat as the last hotel in Cagliari.
Casa Clat is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Cagliari.
It combines refined elegance with state-of-the-art facilities and is the perfect choice for those seeking luxury and comfort during their stay in Sardinia’s capital.
And then we leave the south of Sardinia and travel north.
3. Olbia – Town near some of the best beaches in Sardinia
I stayed in Olbia and chose the city mainly because we flew from there. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy a city full of restaurants and at the same time have some of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia nearby.
From Olbia, you can easily reach the famous Costa Smeralda (you can find out more about the Costa Smeralda later in this travel guide), which is known for its crystal-clear waters, idyllic bays and luxurious resorts.
View the best hotels in Olbia here 👈
From the family-friendly beaches in Pittulongu to the more secluded and unspoiled beaches such as Spiaggia del Principe and Liscia Ruja, there is something for every beach lover.
There are several archaeological sites in and around Olbia, such as an old Roman aqueduct.
Olbia is a lively city with a well-preserved historic center, a charming waterfront promenade and several archaeological sites.
A stay in Olbia means being at the heart of vibrant Sardinian life and at the same time having some of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular beaches within easy reach.
It is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a balanced mix of city life, gastronomy, history and beach excursions on their trip to Sardinia.
Admittedly, the city has less charm than, for example, the cities on the Amalfi Coast, Rome or Florence.
Nevertheless, I was very pleasantly surprised by Olbia.
Best places to stay in Olbia
The center of Olbia is relatively small, so I will recommend a single hotel right in the center and then tell you about the hotel I stayed in.
👉 The Hotel Panorama in Olbia is the perfect choice for combining luxury and comfort.
This 4-star hotel in the heart of Olbia offers elegant rooms, modern facilities and an impressive view of the city.
One of the biggest attractions of the Hotel Panorama is its location. Many of Olbia’s most important sights, including the historic center, the archaeological museum and the city’s port, are within walking distance.
For those looking for that certain something, the hotel also offers a wellness center where you can pamper yourself with various treatments and a small spa bath and sauna.
And then there’s “my” hotel in Olbia, where I stayed on my last trip to Sardinia.
We chose Olbia because we live close to many restaurants and wanted a more urban environment than smaller resorts with less going on.
We opted for the Doubletree by Hilton – partly because it has a large swimming pool, and partly because it was surprisingly cheap compared to general hotel costs in Sardinia (it’s not the cheapest place to vacation in Italy, that’s for sure).
The drive with our rental car from Olbia airport to the hotel took no more than 10 minutes, so it’s convenient if you’re flying to and from Olbia airport.
Our large room had a huge terrace overlooking the hotel’s main attraction: the pool.
The pool is large, as is the area, and although the hotel seemed full (there were a lot of people at breakfast, for example), it was never a problem to get two sun loungers by the pool.
I have nothing bad to say about the hotel, apart from the fact that the breakfast was a bit boring, but that is often the case with breakfast buffets in Italian hotels.
However, you should be aware that the hotel is very secluded and that the city center of Olbia is about a 20-minute walk away.
There are no stores or restaurants directly at the hotel, so you have to walk or drive to the city center.
We rented a car on this trip to Sardinia, but there is also a bus that goes 200 meters from the hotel to Pittulongu beach, which only takes about 10 minutes.
So I can recommend this hotel in Olbia, but you should be aware that you have to walk about 10-15 minutes before anything “happens” in the city.
4. Porto Cervo & Costa Smeralda – Stay on the most beautiful beaches in Europe
From Olbia, we now head to the north-eastern corner of Sardinia, where Porto Cervo is located, the dazzling center of the glamorous Costa Smeralda.
With its exclusive marina and designer stores, Porto Cervo is a playground for the rich and famous.
But it is also a city that has retained its authentic Sardinian charm. And believe me, there’s plenty to fall in love with, regardless of your budget.
See the best hotels in Porto Cervo here 👈
From Porto Cervo, you can explore the Costa Smeralda region, which is known for its spectacular beaches and turquoise waters.
This area of Sardinia is famous for its beaches, and you will find plenty of options to choose from.
Whether you are looking for undisturbed, secluded beaches such as Principe and Romazzino or the more popular and lively beaches such as Liscia Ruja and Cala di Volpe, the Costa Smeralda has it all.
Although the beaches are the main attraction, the region has much more to offer – exploring the local nature and historical sights as well as the glamorous nightlife.
So if you’re wondering where to find the best beaches and a touch of luxury in Sardinia, Porto Cervo and the Costa Smeralda region are a good choice.
Best places to stay in Porto Cervo
As far as the hotels in Porto Cervo and on the entire Costa Smeralda are concerned, I have to be honest right from the start: they are not cheap.
So if you are looking for cheap accommodation in Sardinia, you should take a look at one of the other regions.
On the other hand, you can stay in some fantastic hotels, so let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to stay here in one of the most beautiful areas of Sardinia.
We start with a fantastic hotel that is not located in Porto Cervo, but near Baja Sardinia, a well-known vacation area.
👉 The 7Pines Resort Sardinia is the ultimate luxury accommodation in Sardinia.
The resort is surrounded by the most beautiful nature and of course directly on a private beach.
The elegant suites and villas are equipped with the most modern comforts, and some have their own pool and terrace from which you can enjoy the view to the full.
The facilities are of course also first class. There is a well-equipped gym, a luxurious spa and wellness area and a stunning infinity pool.
For those who want to explore the area (and everyone should, as it is one of the most beautiful areas in Europe), the resort also offers a range of excursions and activities, including boat trips, diving and hiking.
The 7Pines Resort Sardinia is undoubtedly one of the best luxury hotels in Sardinia.
We are moving to one of my favorite hotels in Porto Cervo – the 👉 Cervo Hotel. This 5-star hotel is part of the prestigious Luxury Collection Hotels.
Its ideal location in the heart of Porto Cervo makes it the perfect base for exploring the Costa Smeralda region.
The rooms are elegant and spacious and offer all the amenities you would expect from a hotel of this standard.
Some rooms even offer a private balcony or terrace with a fantastic view of the city.
The hotel has a private beach, two swimming pools, a fitness room and a wellness center where various treatments are offered for ultimate relaxation.
If you dream of a vacation where you can completely relax without taking a single step away from your hotel, then the Colonna Resort is just the place for you.
The Colonna Resort impresses at first glance with its spectacular saltwater pool, one of the largest in Europe.
This 8,500 square meter oasis is surrounded by sun terraces where you can end the day under the Sardinian sun.
But it’s not just the pool that attracts visitors to the Colonna Resort.
The hotel also has its own beach, where the crystal-clear sea water invites you to take a refreshing dip.
The rooms are elegant and spacious, and many have a fantastic view of the sea.
With its exceptional location, fantastic facilities and friendly staff, Colonna Resort is an idyllic place for those looking to get away from it all.
Here you can really recharge your batteries, enjoy the Sardinian landscape and simply enjoy life.
5. La Maddalena – Stay on a small island with a cozy town and beautiful beaches
I would now like to take you on a short boat trip of about 20 minutes from Palau in Sardinia to a place that has a special place in my heart, La Maddalena.
This enchanting little archipelago lies in the turquoise Mediterranean north of Sardinia.
The main island, also known as La Maddalena, is known for its charming old town, beautiful beaches and unspoiled nature.
It might not be the most obvious place to stay in Sardinia, but I had to mention it in this guide – if you don’t book a hotel here, you should at least consider a day trip there 🤝.
Island life is a little more relaxed here, and the town of La Maddalena exudes Italian charm with its narrow, cobbled streets, colorful houses and lively piazzas.
When you stay on La Maddalena, you have the entire fantastic archipelago within easy reach. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with countless hiking trails and places for diving and snorkeling.
And let’s not forget the beaches of the archipelago – from the large, famous beaches such as Spalmatore to the smaller, hidden gems such as Cala Carlotto, they are all breathtakingly beautiful.
As soon as you get there, you’ll understand why La Maddalena is one of my favorite places in Sardinia.
A stay here is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an authentic, relaxed experience and some of the most spectacular scenery in Sardinia.
Best places to stay in La Maddalena
I understand that the choice of La Maddalena is a bit special, so I will only mention two good hotels on the island.
We start with an excellent hotel with a pool, but for adults only.
The 👉 Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma in La Maddalena is a great choice for a nice hotel near the town.
The hotel’s location is ideal for those who want to explore the island but are also looking for a quiet and luxurious base to return to.
But it’s not just the rooms that make Ma&Ma a truly luxurious place to stay.
The hotel also has a fantastic wellness center with indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath and a wide range of beauty and massage treatments.
Here you live close to nature and in the absolute heart of comfort and luxury.
The 👉 Hotel Excelsior is another charming and comfortable hotel with a fantastic location.
The centrally located Hotel La Maddalena offers easy access to charming streets and a good selection of cafés, restaurants and stores.
The rooms are spacious, clean and well equipped, and many have a view of the beautiful sea.
With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, the Hotel Excelsior is an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable stay close to everything in La Maddalena.
6. Santa Teresa di Gallura – good area for families & vacation without a car
Located at the northernmost point of Sardinia, Santa Teresa di Gallura offers a mixture of cultural attractions and natural beauty.
It is a lively little town with a charming old town, a beautiful sandy beach and a number of good restaurants offering everything from traditional Sardinian dishes to modern Italian cuisine.
If you decide to stay in Santa Teresa di Gallura, you will find that everything is within walking distance.
The beaches are just a stone’s throw away, and there are cozy cafés, ice cream parlors and stores in the city center.
Find out about the best hotels in the city and the surrounding area here. 👈
The beaches are pure idyll. The most popular is Rena Bianca, a beautiful beach with fine, white sand and clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
But that’s not all. Santa Teresa di Gallura is also an ideal starting point for various excursions.
You can take a boat trip to the beautiful Maddalena Islands (which I mentioned above) or explore the picturesque landscape of the Gallura region.
A special attraction is the opportunity to take the ferry to Corsica in France.
In just one hour you can reach the charming town of Bonifacio, which lies on the edge of white limestone cliffs and is known for its historical monuments and narrow streets full of stores and restaurants.
If you’re looking for accommodation in Sardinia that offers convenience, fantastic beaches, a wide range of dining options and plenty of adventure, then Santa Teresa di Gallura is the place for you.
It is the ideal place to experience the charm of Sardinia without needing a car.
Best places to stay in Santa Teresa di Gallura
The town is one of the larger ones on the north coast of Sardinia, so there are plenty of good hotels to choose from. Here are a few of the best in town and one that’s a little out of town.
The 👉 Hotel Corallaro in Santa Teresa di Gallura is a charming 4-star hotel with an excellent location.
Right in the city center and just steps away from the stunning Rena Bianca beach, it’s an ideal place to stay if you’re looking for a pool, a beach and plenty of restaurants – all within walking distance of your hotel room.
The beach is literally just around the corner from the hotel.
If you are looking for a hotel that offers easy access to the beach and city life and want to explore Santa Teresa di Gallura without having to rely on a car, then the Hotel Corallaro is an excellent choice.
The following hotel has an equally good location in Santa Teresa di Gallura.
The 👉 Hotel Moresco is a luxurious place where no detail is overlooked.
This 4-star gem is a true oasis of comfort and style in the heart of the city.
The rooms are furnished with tasteful finesse and offer luxury and comfort.
But the location is also a big plus. The Hotel Moresco is just a few minutes’ walk from city life and the historical sights, and the famous Rena Bianca beach is just around the corner.
Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the charming streets of the town or enjoy the local cuisine, the Hotel Moresco is the ideal base for your Sardinian vacation.
If you need a break from city life and are looking for a retreat in a haven of peace, the 👉 Punta Falcone Resort, located just outside Santa Teresa di Gallura, is the place for you.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, this hotel offers a tantalizing combination of luxury and seclusion.
Here you get the best of both worlds: Relaxation in comfortable surroundings while having access to a variety of activities such as trekking, snorkeling and kayaking.
All rooms are modernly furnished and equipped with the latest amenities to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Although the Punta Falcone Resort is located somewhat away from the town center of Santa Teresa di Gallura, it is still within easy reach of the town’s sights.
You can easily visit the city to enjoy the local cuisine, explore historical sights or visit charming stores.
If you choose this hotel, you can retreat to your own oasis whenever you want, but at the same time you are close to Santa Teresa di Gallura.
It’s also cheaper here than in the city. So if you are looking for cheap accommodation in Sardinia, this is a good option.
7. Bosa – the most beautiful & romantic town in Sardinia
We now leave the north of Sardinia and drive down the west coast to Bosa, a town that many consider to be one of the most beautiful towns in Sardinia.
Bosa is a historic town that stretches up a hillside to an impressive medieval castle, the Castello Malaspina.
The town is known for its pastel-colored houses that climb up the hillside and its old bridge, Ponte Vecchio, which stretches across the Temo River.
See the best hotels in Bosa here. 👈
If you decide to stay in Bosa, the beach is not the main attraction.
Bosa Marina, the town’s beach, may be beautiful, but Bosa’s charm and history make travelers fall in love with the town.
Bosa itself is about 3 kilometers from Bosa Marina and the beach.
You can spend hours exploring the winding streets, visiting the local market or sitting in a café by the river and watching the hustle and bustle.
The city is also an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding region.
Beautiful hikes nearby, wineries offering wine tastings and historical sites such as the prehistoric Nuraghe Towers.
Choose to stay in Bosa if you are looking for an authentic Sardinian experience in a town that has as much to offer in terms of culture and history as it does in terms of natural beauty.
Best places to stay in Bosa
Note that you can either stay in Bosa itself or in Bosa Marina. Bosa is the coziest place and “the real Bosa”, – but Bosa Marina is the place where the beach is.
Just so you know before you book your hotel in Bosa.
Take your stay in Bosa to a new level and stay at the 👉 Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso.
This is not just a hotel, but an authentic experience.
Corte Fiorita is a window to the soul of Bosa, a picturesque labyrinth of cobbled streets, colorful houses and medieval monuments in the heart of the old town.
Every part of the Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso has been carefully designed with the local culture and tradition in mind.
The rooms are furnished in a rustic style with authentic Sardinian furniture and handicrafts that complement the old stone walls of the hotel.
Bosa’s old town is right on the doorstep, so you can easily explore the cozy cafés, characteristic stores and impressive historical sights.
The Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso offers you the best of both worlds: a quiet, idyllic base in the middle of town and easy access to Bosa’s most popular attractions.
The 👉 Hotel Palazzo Pischedda is a great place to stay in Sardinia for anyone looking for luxury combined with traditional charm.
The hotel is located in a renovated ancient palace in the center of Bosa and offers an incomparable blend of history, comfort and aesthetic pleasure.
At the same time, modern amenities have been integrated to ensure a comfortable stay without compromising the original charm of the building.
With its panoramic view of the river and the town, the terrace is the perfect place to start or end a day in Bosa.
The Hotel Palazzo Pischedda captures the essence of Bosa in a unique way: its history, its beauty and its sense of the good life.
And then we take a short detour from the old town to Bosa Marina for those who want to stay close to the beach in Sardinia.
If beach life is at the top of your vacation list, you can’t miss the 👉 Hotel Al Gabbiano in Bosa Marina.
The hotel is just a stone’s throw from the shimmering sea and is the ideal starting point for sunbathing, swimming and sunset strolls.
The Hotel Al Gabbiano is a family-run hotel where hospitality and personal service are paramount. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many have a balcony with a wonderful sea view.
With its beachfront location and just a short walk from the cozy restaurants and cafes of Bosa Marina, this hotel is perfect for those dreaming of an undisturbed beach vacation while seeking easy access to local flavors.
A stay here guarantees sand between your toes, salt in your hair and unforgettable moments in the Sardinian sun.
8. San Teodoro – Cozy little town with a beautiful and child-friendly beach
We return to the north-east of Sardinia and now visit the lively seaside resort of San Teodoro, which is popular with beach lovers for its fantastic, child-friendly beach – La Cinta.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, San Teodoro is an idyllic little town that has retained its authentic Sardinian charm.
See the best hotels in San Teodoro here. 👈
If you decide to stay in San Teodoro, you will quickly be enchanted by the local restaurants, the colorful market and the generally relaxed atmosphere. But the star of San Teodoro is undoubtedly the beach.
The white sand stretches for three kilometers and the turquoise water is shallow and calm, ideal for children to play and swim in.
Behind the beach is a lagoon where you can often spot pink flamingos, and on one side of the beach the impressive Tavolara rock rises out of the sea.
San Teodoro is also home to several fantastic beaches, including Lu Impostu and Cala Brandinchi, which is often called “Little Tahiti” due to its crystal-clear waters.
This is the perfect place for a relaxing beach vacation in Sardinia, with easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
And then it’s only a 30-40 minute drive to the city of Olbia, from where you can fly.
Best places to stay in San Teodoro
San Teodoro is a popular vacation destination, so early booking is essential if you want to stay in this part of Sardinia. Let’s take a look at some good hotels in San Teodoro.
For travelers looking for a beach vacation with added luxury, the 👉 Hotel L’Esagono in San Teodoro will fulfil all wishes.
Nestled in lush gardens, this charming hotel offers a fantastic view of the glittering blue sea.
With its own, almost private beach and heated pool, Hotel L’Esagono is the ultimate place for those who want to enjoy the Sardinian sun in peace and quiet.
You can laze around on a sun lounger by the pool or on the beach while enjoying a cool refreshment from the hotel bar.
The rooms at Hotel L’Esagono are bright and airy and all have a private terrace, giving you an extra level of privacy.
Hotel L’Esagono in San Teodoro is a true oasis that offers a blend of relaxation and luxury. A place where travelers can relax in picturesque surroundings and enjoy the finer things in life under the radiant Sardinian sun.
The 👉 Hotel Le Mimose in San Teodoro is a good choice for anyone who wants to experience Sardinia without breaking the bank.
The hotel is some distance from the beach, but it is definitely accessible if you take the 20-minute walk to La Cinta beach – and if you have a car, you can drive there in a few minutes.
The bright rooms are functionally furnished and have modern amenities that guarantee a pleasant stay.
One of the highlights of the hotel is the large pool surrounded by lush gardens. Here you can relax, swim and sunbathe on one of the many loungers.
At Hotel Le Mimose you get great value for money, friendly and welcoming staff and the opportunity to experience San Teodoro in a relaxed and effortless way.
Places to avoid in Sardinia ‼️
Deciding where not to stay in Sardinia can be just as important as deciding where to stay.
While Sardinia is a beautiful and welcoming island with many unique places to explore, some areas may not suit everyone’s travel style or expectations.
Industrial areas such as Porto Torres and Portoscuso: These towns can be convenient for traveling to and from the island as they have ferry ports. But they are also the center of heavy industry. They do not offer the same charm and beauty as many other towns in Sardinia.
Deserted villages in the interior of the island: Many small villages in the interior of Sardinia have a rustic charm, but can only be reached by car. If you don’t plan to rent a car during your stay, stay closer to the coast where public transportation is better.
Costa Smeralda in high season if you’re on a budget: The Costa Smeralda is one of the most famous and expensive regions in Sardinia, known for its luxury resorts and first-class shopping. If you are traveling on a tight budget, choose a less touristy area.
Would you like to see why Sardinia is such a famous island? I think this video shows it very well:
As already mentioned, we ended up staying in Olbia, which wasn’t our first choice – but the hotels in the smaller towns right on the beaches were so expensive that we stayed in a hotel in Olbia, rented a car and went on lots of excursions.
Remember that what is good for one person is not necessarily good for another. It is therefore important that you think about what you want to get out of your vacation in Sardinia before choosing where to stay.
Sardinia is a diverse island that has something to offer every traveler, whether you are looking for sun-drenched beaches, historic towns, a vibrant nightlife or peace and quiet.
From the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Cagliari to the picturesque beauty of Bosa, from the sophisticated life of Porto Cervo to the breathtaking beaches of San Teodoro – there is a city or region that perfectly suits your travel style and expectations.
Wherever you live, you will find that Sardinia is a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a longing to return.
If you have any questions about accommodation in Sardinia or the island, please write us a comment.
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions:
Which area of Sardinia is best to stay in?
The answer depends on what you want for your vacation. Cagliari could be a good choice if you are looking for a mix of city life, history and culture. Porto Cervo and the whole Costa Smeralda area could be the right place if you are looking for luxury and glamor.
San Teodoro could be a good choice if you are traveling with the family and want easy access to child-friendly beaches. Alghero is perhaps the best area in Sardinia, but in this article I describe many other good places and what you can expect from your trip there.
Is it necessary to rent a car in Sardinia?
It’s a good idea to rent a car in Sardinia, but you can also enjoy different beaches and many of the best beaches in Sardinia without a car. In this guide, I also talk about several vacation areas where you don’t need to rent a car to have a good trip.
Is Sardinia safe?
Yes, Sardinia is a safe destination, with a lower crime rate than many other European destinations. However, it is important to exercise general caution, especially with regard to personal belongings in tourist areas.
When is the best time to visit Sardinia?
The high season in Sardinia is from June to August, when the weather is at its warmest and all the attractions are open. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) can be a good time to visit as the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer tourists.
Should I stay in Olbia or Alghero?
Both Olbia and Alghero are popular tourist destinations in Sardinia, but each has its own characteristics and offers visitors different experiences.
Let me briefly summarize the difference between the two popular vacation destinations.
Olbia:
Olbia, located in the north-east of Sardinia, is known for its lively port city atmosphere and its vibrant center with many stores, cafés and restaurants. Olbia is also known for its many nearby beaches, which are among the most beautiful in the region, including Pittulongu and Bados. The city also offers historical sights such as the Roman church of San Simplicio and the Archaeological Museum. Olbia has an international airport and is a major transportation hub for holidaymakers wishing to explore northern Sardinia, including the exclusive Costa Smeralda.
Alghero:
Alghero, located on the northwest coast of the island, is a charming and historic town with strong Catalan roots, which are reflected in its architecture, cuisine and even the local language. Alghero is known for its well-preserved old town with cobbled streets, picturesque squares, medieval defensive walls and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria. The town also has an attractive marina and several beautiful beaches. In addition, the famous Neptune Caves are just a short boat ride away. Alghero also has an airport, which facilitates arrival and departure.
Alghero is better known for its historical charm and cultural experiences, while Olbia has a more modern flair and is a convenient starting point for exploring the many beaches and attractions in northern Sardinia.
In my opinion, Alghero is a more exciting city, but Olbia is better located in Sardinia.
