Planning your Sardinian holiday but can’t decide which part of the island to choose as your base? I’ve been in your shoes, and after exploring this fantastic island, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the right choice for your perfect holiday.
Planning a last minute trip to Sardinia? ๐ฎ๐น
Here are some of my favourite places to stay & things to do:
๐ Places to Stay:
1. 7Pines Resort Sardinia (literally the perfect, luxurious place to stay in Sardinia)
2. Cervo Hotel (fantastic hotel right in the heart of Sardinias Emerald Coast)
3. Hotel Corallaro (family-friendly hotel 200m from the beach)
๐๏ธย Top Activities & Tours:
1. Take a day trip to La Maddalena (probably the most beautiful small island near Sardinia)
2. Visit the iconic Tavolara Island and enjoy sailing in some of the bluest water in Europe
3. Do an eco-friendly Dolphin watching tour
๐ If you want to rent a car, I recommend getting an overview on this website.
You can also read my main guide on where to stay in Sardinia, where I cover 8 different areas and recommend plenty of great hotels all over the island.
The Alluring North: Costa Smeralda and Luxury Living

In North Sardinia, you’ll find the famous Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast), and trust me, the name hits the nail on the head! We’re talking about some of Europe’s most exclusive beaches with the clearest, turquoise water you’ll ever see.
Porto Cervo is the area’s absolute hotspot, and if you’re into luxury and celebrity spotting, this is where you want to be (you can spot George Clooney’s yacht anchored here – pretty cool!).

But the north isn’t just for the rich and famous. Take the charming town of Palau, which I absolutely love. From here, you can take boat trips to the La Maddalena islands, where you’ll find some of the island’s most pristine beaches.

It’s absolute paradise! Olbia works perfectly as a base if you want to explore the area – plus, it’s likely where you’ll land if you’re flying to the northern part of the island.
3 Most Popular Cities in the North
Olbia
Olbia is many visitors’ first introduction to Sardinia, and what an introduction it is! The city is a fascinating blend of modern conveniences and historical charm. In the centre, you’ll find the atmospheric old town with the impressive San Simplicio basilica from the 11th century.
Corso Umberto I is the city’s vibrant main street, where locals and tourists gather for shopping and aperitivo.

The waterfront buzzes with life, especially in the evening when restaurants serve the day’s catch. With its international airport and position as the gateway to Costa Smeralda, Olbia is perfect for exploring the northern region.
The city also offers surprisingly good beaches within short distance, particularly the popular Pittulongu Beach.
Check out my video on where to stay in Sardinia where I show Olbia and Alghero in the North:
Porto Cervo
Porto Cervo epitomises luxury and glamour in Sardinia. Designed by the Aga Khan in the 1960s, it’s designed to perfection, with its characteristic architecture that blends into the landscape.

The marina is among Europe’s most exclusive, with some of the world’s largest superyachts moored side by side. Piazzetta, the central square, is surrounded by high-end shops like Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
In the evening, the area comes alive when the international jet-set takes over the fashionable restaurants and cocktail bars.
The beaches around Porto Cervo, especially Spiaggia del Principe, are among the island’s most beautiful with their powder-white sand and crystal-clear water.
Santa Teresa Gallura
Santa Teresa Gallura, situated at Sardinia’s northernmost tip, is a charming coastal town with genuine Italian atmosphere.
On a clear day, the spectacular viewpoint Torre di Longosardo allows you to see all the way to Corsica. The town’s heart is Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, where locals gather for their daily passeggiata.

The iconic Rena Bianca beach is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, offering white sand and turquoise waters.
The town is also the departure point for boats to Bonifacio in Corsica (which is part of France) and to the hidden coves along Capo Testa.
There’s a relaxed, authentic atmosphere in the evening with family-owned restaurants and cosy wine bars.
The Authentic South: Culture and Genuine Sardinian Life
South Sardinia is, in my opinion, the island’s more authentic side. Here you’ll find Cagliari, the island’s capital, which
I’ve completely fallen in love with! It’s a city with soul, where you can feel the genuine Sardinian atmosphere.

Locals hang out at Piazza Yenne in the evening, and the vibe is simplyโฆ magical! Plus, you have the fantastic Poetto beach right by the city (perfect for a morning dip, if you ask me).
One of the south’s major advantages is that prices are generally lower than in the north. You simply get more bang for your buck here, both when it comes to restaurants and accommodation.
And the beaches? Oh myโฆ Chia and Villasimius have some of the most spectacular beaches I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen quite a few!).
3 Most Popular Cities in the South
Cagliari
Sardinia’s capital Cagliari is a fascinating mix of history, culture, and modern city life. Quartiere Castello, the historic district atop the city’s highest hill, is a labyrinthine network of narrow streets and ancient palaces.
From here, you have a breathtaking view over the city and sea. The city’s landmark is the majestic Torre dell’Elefante from the 14th century.

The nine-kilometre-long Poetto beach is the city’s living room, where locals meet for sun, sports, and aperitivo.
Via Roma and the busy harbour frame a vibrant restaurant scene, while Mercato di San Benedetto is one of Europe’s largest covered food markets with an overwhelming selection of fresh fish and local specialities.
Villasimius
Villasimius is the crown jewel of Sardinia’s southeastern corner, known for its spectacular beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The town has evolved from a modest fishing village to a sophisticated resort without losing its authentic charm.
The old town is filled with lovely restaurants and local shops. The maritime museum in the historic fortress tells the area’s fascinating history.
Beaches like Porto Giunco and Punta Molentis are among Sardinia’s finest with their soft, white sand and turquoise waters.
The protected marine area around the town makes it a paradise for snorkelling and diving, with opportunities to spot dolphins and rich underwater flora.
Chia
Chia is the pearl of the southern coast, known for its spectacular beaches and dramatic landscapes. The area is dominated by an old Spanish watchtower, Torre di Chia, watching over the coast.
The famous beaches Su Giudeu and Sa Colonia are considered some of Europe’s most beautiful with their golden sand and crystal-clear water, surrounded by dunes and juniper trees. In the lagoons behind the beach, you can often spot flamingos.
The area is less developed than other tourist spots, providing a more natural and peaceful experience.
Chia is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers and kitesurfers, who benefit from the perfect wind conditions. The local agriturismi offer authentic food experiences with ingredients straight from the farm.
Where to stay in Sardinia? Here Are the Advantages of Both Areas
The North Coast Offers:
- Luxurious holiday atmosphere and trendy hotspots
- Easy access to La Maddalena islands’ paradise beaches
- The most turquoise water you can imagine
- Fashionable restaurants and boutiques
- Yacht life and celebrity spotting (if that’s your thing!)
The South Coast Gives You:
- More authentic Sardinian cultural experience
- Better value for money
- Perfect combination of beach and city life
- Less touristy areas
- Historical atmosphere and local life
Read more Italy travel guides:
Transport and Practical Considerations

Transport and logistics are also worth considering. North Sardinia has Olbia and Alghero Airport, while the south has Cagliari. Both are easily accessible from major European cities, so this shouldn’t be a deciding factor.
But remember: Sardinia is larger than you might think! It takes about 4 hours to drive from north to south, so I recommend choosing one base and exploring from there.
Pro tip: If you’re travelling in high season (July-August), the south is actually often less crowded than the north. Costa Smeralda can get quiteโฆ let’s say “cosy” during these months!
However, the weather is perfect in both places, and you can’t go wrong with swimming anywhere on the island.
If you’re over in mainland Italy, you can also get the ferry from Naples, Genoa, Livorno or Palermo in Sicily.
My Personal Take
If this is your first trip to Sardinia and you’re into the more polished and internationally known scene, go north. But if you, like me, love experiencing the more raw and authentic side of a destination (and save some money simultaneously), then the South is a hit!
Whatever you choose, you can’t really go wrong – Sardinia is, after all, one of the Mediterranean’s most fantastic islands. And hey, you can always take the other part of the island next timeโฆ because trust me, there will be a next time!
Enjoy planning your trip – and have a fantastic time in this amazing Italian paradise.
Check out my guide on the best areas and places to stay in Sardinia for more recommendations.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time ๐
โข Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
โข GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
โข NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
โข Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
Psst ๐ Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?