Where to Stay in Sardinia? 8 Best Areas & Places to Stay + Avoid! 🇮🇹

After my most recent trip to Sardinia, I will share the best places to stay on the beautiful Italian island in this guide.

Planning a last minute trip to Sardinia? 🇮🇹
Here are some of my favourite places to stay & things to do:

🛌 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)

🎟️ 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
🚘 If you want to rent a car, I recommend getting an overview on this website.

I have just returned from a week in Sardinia, where I travelled around and visited various cities and areas.

In this guide, I’ll discuss some of the best places to ideally book your hotel and use as a base to explore 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 get started with the guide.

Best areas to stay in Sardinia

• Alghero – beautiful Old Town with a beach ⭐️
• Cagliari – the island’s capital with local life & good nightlife 🍹
• Olbia – a large city close to some of Sardinia’s best beaches 🏖️
• Porto Cervo & Costa Smeralda – luxury hotels by the most beautiful beaches in Europe 🙌
• La Maddalena – small island with a cosy town & beautiful beaches 🥰
• Santa Teresa Gallura – excellent place for families & holidays without a car 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• Bosa – Sardinia’s most beautiful & romantic town 😍
• San Teodoro – cosy town by a stunning & child-friendly beach ⛱️

Click the link above and see the best hotels in the area.

The guide to the best places to stay in Sardinia continues below.

1. Alghero – a fantastic cosy city with a beach

Alghero, also known as “little Barcelona” is a real gem on the northwestern coast of Sardinia.

The town is a fascinating mix of Italian charm and Catalan heritage, embedded in its cobblestone streets, Gothic buildings, and the impressive city wall surrounding the old town.

When you step into Alghero, it’s like stepping back in time – it’s a bit cliché, but in this case, I believe it’s true.

At least when you enter the old town by the harbour – the rest of the town is a bit of a classic Italian holiday city if you can talk about it.

See the best hotels in Alghero here.

The narrow, winding streets of the old town are filled with charming shops selling local crafts and cosy cafes where you can enjoy an espresso or a gelato.

I’ve also made a video where I’m showing Alghero (and Olbia, which I’ll get to in this guide):

Plenty of excellent restaurants will also serve 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 city’s own sandy beach is not the most beautiful, and there can be a bit of a seaweed smell, so if you want to experience lovely places, you have to head to the more secluded bays at Le Bombarde and Lazzaretto.

The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or basking in the sun.

Alghero is also a fantastic starting point to explore some of Sardinia’s most impressive natural wonders.

You can take a boat trip to the spectacular Neptune’s caves, visit the nearby Porto Conte nature reserve, or take a trip to the dramatic Capo Caccia.

So, Alghero is a city that has it all – history, culture, beautiful beaches, and fantastic food.

It is the perfect place to stay for those who want to experience the best of Sardinia, whether you’re an adventurous traveller, a beach bum, a food lover, or a curious tourist.

There’s also an international airport, so you can quickly get to your hotel without travelling far.

Places to stay in Alghero

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best hotels in Alghero. I recommend hotels in the old town or very close to it here.

Hotel Catalunya in Alghero is a charming 4-star hotel in the city’s heart, close to the old town and the beach.

With over 100 modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a fitness centre, the hotel provides all the facilities you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

The highlight is the panoramic rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy an unparalleled 360-degree view of the city, the harbour, and the surrounding landscape.

With its excellent location and accommodating staff, Hotel Catalunya is the perfect base for exploring Alghero and the beauties of Sardinia.

See more photos and book here.

Located in the heart of Alghero’s historic old town, Palau De Rosa is a charming boutique hotel that combines comfort and authenticity, making it an ideal choice for travellers.

The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored building that exudes historical charm, but you’ll find modern amenities and elegant decor inside.

Palau De Rosa is close to the narrow, cobblestone streets, historical churches, and the beautiful fortification walls that make Alghero’s old town so distinctive.

With its central location, the hotel is also within walking distance of several restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Palau De Rosa is the perfect choice for those seeking to be immersed in Alghero’s historical atmosphere while having a comfortable and convenient base for their stay in Sardinia.

See more photos and book here.

And then we also have a more classic holiday hotel with a fantastic swimming pool – but please note that this hotel is not in the old town!

Hotel Calabona is located a bit on the outskirts of Alghero and offers a peaceful retreat that is still conveniently close to the city’s best things to do.

This 4-star hotel is right by the sea, and many rooms offer a stunning view of the azure bay.

Although Hotel Calabona offers a sense of tranquillity and seclusion, it’s only a short drive or a pleasant walk along the coast to Alghero’s old town.

If you’re looking for accommodation in Sardinia that combines relaxation, comfort, and convenience, then Hotel Calabona is an excellent choice.

See more photos and book here.

2. Cagliari – the island’s capital with local life

Cagliari, Sardinia’s largest city and “capital”, is located in the southern part of the island and is a metropolis of history, culture, and natural beauty.

It’s a cosmopolitan city that pulsates with life, where you can find everything from exciting cultural experiences to delicious culinary adventures.

Staying in Cagliari allows you to experience the many facets of the Sardinian metropolis. You’ll find a vibrant cultural life with museums, theatres, and galleries here.

See the best hotels in Cagliari here.

The most well-known sights and things to do include 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 city’s historical centre, the old Castello district, is a must-see with its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and panoramic views over the city and the sea.

Here you’ll find historical gems, such as the Bastione di Saint Remy, and a thriving 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 enjoy the sun or engage in water sports such as surfing and kitesurfing.

If you’re a city lover who also appreciates culture, history, gastronomy, and access to beautiful beaches, Cagliari will undoubtedly be an excellent choice for your stay in Sardinia.

Places to stay in Cagliari

Like any other Italian metropolis, Cagliari has plenty of good and less good hotels. Here are a few good places to stay in different price ranges.

We start with a hotel for those who want to stay centrally but don’t need the utmost luxury.

Hotel Due Colonne is an affordable, 3-star hotel that allows you to experience all Cagliari offers without breaking the budget.

With its ideal location in the city centre, you’re just a stone’s throw from the harbour, where you can enjoy the sight of yachts and sailboats and a wide selection of restaurants and shops.

The hotel rooms are simple but comfortable and clean, with all the necessary conveniences, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom.

Some rooms even have a view of the harbour, adding a lovely touch to your stay.

Hotel Due Colonne has a 24-hour front desk, and the staff are always ready to help arrange tours or advise on the best places to visit in Cagliari.

See more photos and book here.

And then we jump to a more luxurious hotel.

UNAHOTELS T Hotel Cagliari is an oasis of style and comfort in Sardinia’s capital.

This 4-star hotel is an ideal accommodation for those who appreciate well-being, modern aesthetics, and a high standard of service.

The rooms are spacious, bright, and inviting, with an elegant design reflecting the hotel’s modern charm.

Every detail has been carefully considered, from the luxurious bed linen to the stylish bathrooms, ensuring a relaxed and comfortable stay.

One of the hotel’s highlights is undoubtedly the indoor pool, a perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also offers a wellness centre with various treatments for guests wishing to indulge.

Although UNAHOTELS T Hotel is a little away from Cagliari’s historical centre, it is easy to reach via a taxi or 20-minute walk.

The hotel’s quality and unparalleled facilities offset this slight drawback, making it an excellent choice for your stay in Cagliari.

See more photos and book here.

• By the way, Unahotels also has an excellent place to stay in Rome if you pass by Italy’s capital on your trip to Italy.

Regina Margherita Hotel is a stylish and comfortable hotel in Cagliari’s city centre.

This elegant 4-star hotel is ideal for those wanting to mix comfort with a convenient location.

The location is one of the most significant advantages of the Regina Margherita Hotel. It’s located in Cagliari’s centre, meaning many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance.

Furthermore, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in the surrounding area.

Regina Margherita Hotel is perfect for those seeking a comfortable stay in Cagliari’s vibrant centre.

See more photos and book here.

I also want to mention Casa Clat as the last hotel in Cagliari.

Casa Clat is a luxurious boutique hotel located 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 while staying in Sardinia’s capital.

See more photos and book here.

And then we leave southern Sardinia and travel north.

3. Olbia – City Close to Some of Sardinia’s Best Beaches

I’ve stayed in Olbia and chose the city mainly because we flew into the airport. It’s a perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy a town brimming with restaurants while being close to some of Sardinia’s most stunning beaches.

Staying in Olbia gives you easy access to the renowned Costa Smeralda (more about Costa Smeralda later in this guide on where to stay in Sardinia), famous for its crystal-clear waters, idyllic coves, and luxurious resorts.

Check out the best hotels in Olbia here.

From the family-friendly beaches in Pittulongu to the more secluded and untouched beaches like Spiaggia del Principe and Liscia Ruja, there’s something for every beach lover.

Several archaeological attractions exist in and around Olbia – such as an ancient Roman aqueduct.

Olbia is a vibrant city with a well-preserved historic city centre, a charming waterfront, and several archaeological attractions.

Staying in Olbia means being at the heart of pulsating Sardinian life, but also within easy reach of some of the most spectacular beaches in the Mediterranean.

It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a balanced mix of city life, gastronomy, history, and beach outings on their trip to Sardinia.

Admittedly, it’s less charming a city than, for example, the towns on the Amalfi Coast, Rome or Florence.

However, I was still quite positively surprised by Olbia.

Places to stay in Olbia

The centre of Olbia is relatively tiny, so I’ll recommend a single hotel right in the centre and then tell you about the hotel I stayed in.

Hotel Panorama in Olbia is the perfect choice to combine luxury and convenience.

It’s a 4-star hotel in the heart of Olbia, offering elegant rooms, modern facilities and impressive views over the city.

One of the biggest draws of Hotel Panorama is its location. It is within walking distance of many of Olbia’s main attractions, including the historical centre, the archaeological museum, and the city’s port.

For those seeking that little extra, the hotel also offers a wellness centre where you can pamper yourself with various treatments and a small spa bath and sauna.

See more photos and book here.

And then there’s “my” hotel in Olbia, where I stayed on my last trip to Sardinia.

We chose to stay in Olbia because we wanted to stay close to many restaurants and have more city-like surroundings than smaller holiday towns with less to do.

We chose Doubletree by Hilton – both because there is a large swimming pool and because it was surprisingly cheap compared to the general cost of hotels in Sardinia (it’s not the cheapest place to go on holiday in Italy, that’s for sure).

It took no more than 10 minutes to drive in our rented car from Olbia Airport to the hotel, so it’s convenient if you’re flying to and from that airport.

Our large room had a massive terrace overlooking the hotel’s main attraction: the pool.

The pool is large, and so is the area, so even though the hotel seemed full (there were, for instance, a lot of people at breakfast), it was never a problem to get two sun loungers by the pool.

I don’t have anything bad to say about the hotel apart from breakfast being a bit boring, but that’s often the case with breakfast buffets at Italian hotels.

You should, however, be aware that the hotel is very much on its own and about a 20-minute walk into Olbia city centre.

So there are no shops or restaurants right by the hotel, so you have to walk or drive into the city centre.

Now, we rented a car on this trip to Sardinia, but there is also a bus that runs 200 meters from the hotel to the Pittulongu beach, which only takes about 10 minutes.

So, I can recommend this hotel in Olbia, but you should be aware that it takes about a 10-15 minute walk before anything “happens” city-wise.

See more photos and book here.

4. Porto Cervo & Costa Smeralda – Stay by the Most Beautiful Beaches in Europe

From Olbia, we now move up to the northeastern corner of Sardinia, where you’ll find Porto Cervo, the dazzling centre of the glamorous Costa Smeralda.

Porto Cervo is a playground for the rich and famous, with its exclusive marina area and designer shops.

But it’s also a city that maintains its authentic Sardinian charm. And trust me, there’s plenty to fall in love with, regardless of your budget.

Check out the best hotels in Porto Cervo here.

Choosing Porto Cervo as your base gives you perfect access to explore the Costa Smeralda region, known for its spectacular beaches and turquoise-blue water.

This area of Sardinia is truly famous for its beaches, and you will find a wealth of options to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for undisturbed, remote beaches like Principe and Romazzino or the more popular and lively beaches like Liscia Ruja and Cala di Volpe, the Costa Smeralda has it all.

Although the beaches are the main draw, the region has much more to offer – exploring the local nature and historical attractions and participating in the glamorous nightlife.

So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Sardinia for the best beaches and a touch of luxury, Porto Cervo and the Costa Smeralda region is a great choice.

Places to stay in Porto Cervo

Regarding hotels in Porto Cervo and throughout the Costa Smeralda area, I must be honest from the start: it is not cheap.

So if you are looking for cheap accommodation in Sardinia, you should look in one of the other areas.

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 parts of Sardinia.

We set out with a fantastic hotel not located in Porto Cervo but near and close to Baja Sardinia, a well-known holiday area.

7Pines Resort Sardinia represents the ultimate in luxury accommodation in Sardinia.

The resort is located in the most beautiful nature and, of course, right down to a private beach

The elegant suites and villas are equipped with state-of-the-art comforts, and several have their own private pool and terrace, where you can enjoy the view to the fullest.

The facilities are of course also top class. A well-equipped gym, a luxurious spa and wellness area, and a stunning infinity pool exist.

For those who wish to explore the area (and everyone should, for this 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.

7Pines Resort Sardinia is undoubtedly one of the best luxury hotels in Sardinia.

See more photos and book here.

We are moving to one of my favourite hotels in Porto Cervo – the Cervo Hotel. This 5-star hotel is part of the prestigious Luxury Collection Hotels.

It’s ideally located at the heart of Porto Cervo, making it a perfect base to explore the Costa Smeralda region.

The rooms are elegant and spacious, offering all the amenities you would expect from a hotel of this standard.

Some rooms even offer a private balcony or terrace with fantastic views over the city.

The hotel has a private beach, two swimming pools, a gym, and a wellness centre, which offers various treatments for ultimate relaxation.

See more photos and book here.

If you dream of a holiday where you can completely relax without taking a single step away from your hotel, then Colonna Resort is just the place for you.

Colonna Resort already impresses at first sight 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 laze away the day under the Sardinian sun.

But it’s not just the pool that entices at Colonna Resort.

The hotel also has its own private beach, where crystal clear sea water invites you for a refreshing swim.

The rooms are elegant and spacious, and many have fantastic views of the sea.

With its exceptional location, fantastic facilities and welcoming staff, Colonna Resort is an idyllic place for those seeking a true escape from everyday life.

Here you can really recharge, enjoy the Sardinian landscape and simply enjoy life.

See more photos and book here.

5. La Maddalena – Stay on a small island with a cosy town & lovely beaches

Let me now take you on a little boat trip of about 20 minutes from Palau in Sardinia to a place that certainly has a special place in my heart, namely La Maddalena.

This enchanting little archipelago is in the turquoise Mediterranean just north of Sardinia.

The main island, also called La Maddalena, is known for its old, charming town, radiant beaches, and untouched nature.

It may 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, at least consider going on a day trip over there 🤝

The island life here is a bit more relaxed, and the town of La Maddalena exudes Italian charm with its narrow, cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and lively piazzas.

Check out the best hotels here.

If you stay on La Maddalena, you have the whole fantastic archipelago within reach. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, with countless hiking trails and places to dive and snorkel.

And let’s not forget the archipelago’s beaches – from the large, famous beaches like Spalmatore to the smaller, hidden gems like Cala Carlotto, they are all breathtakingly beautiful.

Once you arrive, you will understand why La Maddalena is one of my favourite places in Sardinia.

Staying here is a perfect choice for those who want an authentic, relaxed experience and some of Sardinia’s most spectacular landscapes.

Places to stay in La Maddalena

I understand that choosing La Maddalena is a bit special, so I’ll just mention two good hotels on the island.

We start with an excellent hotel with a pool, but only for adults.

Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma in La Maddalena is a good choice for a lovely hotel close to the city.

The hotel’s location is ideal for those who want to explore the island but also have a quiet and luxurious base to return to.

But it’s not just the rooms that make Ma&Ma an authentic luxury stay.

The place also houses a fantastic wellness centre with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath, and a wide range of beauty and massage treatments.

Here you will stay close to nature and in the absolute heart of comfort and luxury.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Excelsior is another charming and comfortable hotel with a fantastic location.

The central La Maddalena hotel provides easy access to charming streets and a good selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

The rooms are spacious, clean and well-equipped, and many have a view of the beautiful sea.

With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, Hotel Excelsior is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable stay close to everything in La Maddalena.

See more photos and book here.

6. Santa Teresa di Gallura – good area for families & holidays without a car

Located at the northernmost point of Sardinia, Santa Teresa di Gallura offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty.

It’s a lively little town that boasts a charming old town, a beautiful sandy beach, and a range of good restaurants serving everything from traditional Sardinian dishes to modern Italian cuisine.

When you choose to stay in Santa Teresa di Gallura, you’ll find that everything is within walking distance.

The beaches are a stone’s throw away, and the city centre has cosy cafes, ice cream bars, and shops.

Check out the best hotels in the city & the area here.

The beaches are pure idyll, and the most popular is Rena Bianca, a lovely beach with fine, white sand and clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

But it doesn’t stop here. 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 scenic landscape in the Gallura region.

A unique attraction is the opportunity to take the ferry to Corsica in France.

In just one hour, you can reach the enchanting town of Bonifacio, which sits on the edge of white limestone cliffs and is known for its historical monuments and narrow streets filled with shops and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Sardinia that offers convenience, fantastic beaches, a wide range of dining options, and lots of adventure at your fingertips, then Santa Teresa di Gallura is the place for you.

It’s the ideal place to experience Sardinia’s charm without needing a car.

Places to stay in Santa Teresa di Gallura

The town is one of the larger ones on the northern coast of Sardinia, so there are quite a few good hotels to choose from. Here are a couple of the best in the town and one that’s a bit outside.

Hotel Corallaro in Santa Teresa di Gallura is a charming 4-star hotel with an outstanding location.

Right in the centre of town and just steps from the breathtaking Rena Bianca beach, it’s an ideal place to stay if you want a pool, beach, and many restaurants – all within walking distance of your hotel room.

The beach is literally just around the corner from the hotel.

If you’re looking for a hotel that provides easy access to the beach and city life and wants to explore Santa Teresa di Gallura without depending on a car, then Hotel Corallaro is an excellent choice.

See more photos and book here.

The following hotel has an equally good location in Santa Teresa di Gallura.

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 city’s heart.

The rooms are decorated with tasteful finesse and offer luxury and convenience.

But the location is also a big plus. Hotel Moresco is within walking distance of city life and historical sights, and the famous Rena Bianca beach is right around the corner.

So whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the city’s charming streets, or enjoy the local cuisine, Hotel Moresco is the ideal base for your Sardinian holiday.

See more photos and book here.

If you need a break from city life and are looking for a retreat to a paradise of tranquillity, Punta Falcone Resort, located just outside Santa Teresa di Gallura, is the place for you.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, this hotel offers a tantalising combination of luxury and seclusion.

Here you get the best of both worlds: relaxation in comfortable surroundings, and at the same time, you have access to a host of activities such as trekking, snorkelling, and kayaking.

All rooms have modern decor and are equipped with the latest conveniences to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Even though Punta Falcone Resort is a bit away from the city centre of Santa Teresa di Gallura, it is still within reach of the city’s attractions.

You can easily visit the city to enjoy the local cuisine, explore historical sights, or visit charming shops.

If you choose this hotel, you can retreat to your own oasis whenever you wish, but at the same time, you are close to Santa Teresa di Gallura.

Also, it is cheaper to stay here than inside the city, so if you are looking for cheap accommodation in Sardinia, it is a good option.

See more photos and book here.

7. Bosa – most beautiful & romantic city in Sardinia

We’re now leaving northern Sardinia and moving down the west coast to Bosa, a city many have dubbed one of the most beautiful cities in Sardinia.

Bosa is a historic city that stretches up a slope to an impressive medieval castle, Castello Malaspina.

The city is known for its pastel-coloured houses climbed up the mountainside and its old bridge, Ponte Vecchio, stretching over the Temo River.

See the best hotels in Bosa here.

When you choose to stay in Bosa, the beach is not the main attraction.

Although Bosa Marina, the city’s beach, is lovely, Bosa’s charm and history make travellers fall in love with the city.

Bosa itself is located about 3 kilometres from Bosa Marina and the beach.

You can spend hours exploring the winding streets, visiting the local market, or settling down at a café by the river to watch the world go by.

The city is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region.

Beautiful hikes nearby, wineries offering wine tasting, and historical places like the prehistoric Nuraghe towers.

Choose to stay in Bosa if you are looking for an authentic Sardinian experience in a city with as much to offer in terms of culture and history as natural beauty.

Places to stay in Bosa

Be aware that you can either stay in Bosa itself or in Bosa Marina. Bosa is the cosiest place and “the real Bosa”, – but Bosa Marina is where the beach is.

Just so you know, before you book your hotel in Bosa.

Take your stay in Bosa to new heights by staying at Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso.

This is not just a hotel; it’s an authentic experience.

Corte Fiorita is a window to Bosa’s soul, a picturesque labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and medieval monuments in the heart of the old town.

Every part of Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso is carefully designed to honour local culture and tradition.

The rooms are decorated in a rustic style with authentic Sardinian furniture and crafts that complement the hotel’s ancient stone walls.

Bosa’s old town is right outside your door, so it’s easy to explore its cosy cafés, distinctive shops, and impressive historical sights.

Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso gives you the best of both worlds: a quiet, idyllic base in the middle of town and easy access to Bosa’s most popular attractions.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Palazzo Pischedda is a great place to stay in Sardinia for those seeking luxury in combination with traditional charm.

Located in a renovated, antique palace in the middle of Bosa, the hotel offers an unparalleled blend of history, comfort, and aesthetic pleasure.

At the same time, modern conveniences are well integrated, ensuring a comfortable stay without compromising the building’s original charm.

With its panoramic view over the river and the city, the terrace is the perfect place to start or end your day in Bosa.

Hotel Palazzo Pischedda uniquely captures the essence of Bosa: its history, beauty, and sense of the good life.

See more photos and book here.

And then we hop the short trip from the old town out to Bosa Marina for you 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 Hotel Al Gabbiano in Bosa Marina.

Located just a stone’s throw from the shimmering sea, the hotel has the ideal base for sunbathing, swimming, and late sunset walks.

Hotel Al Gabbiano is a family-run hotel where hospitality and personal service shine through. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many have balconies that provide exquisite sea views.

With its location right by the beach and a short walk from Bosa Marina’s cosy restaurants and cafes, this hotel is perfect for those dreaming of an undisturbed beach holiday combined with easy access to local taste experiences.

A stay here guarantees sand between your toes, salt in your hair, and memorable moments in the Sardinian sun.

See more photos and book here.

8. San Teodoro – cosy town with a beautiful & child-friendly beach

We return to northeast Sardinia and now visit the lively seaside resort of San Teodoro, loved by 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 retains its authentic Sardinian charm.

See the best hotels in San Teodoro here.

When you choose to stay here, you will quickly be enchanted by the local restaurants, the colourful market and the generally relaxed atmosphere. But the star of San Teodoro is undoubtedly the beach.

Its white sand stretches for three kilometres, and the turquoise waters are shallow and calm, making it 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, you will find the impressive Tavolara rock rising from the sea.

San Teodoro is also home to several fantastic beaches, including Lu Impostu and Cala Brandinchi, often called “Little Tahiti” due to its crystal clear waters.

This is the perfect location for a relaxing beach holiday in Sardinia, with easy access to some of the island’s most stunning beaches.

And then there is only a 30-40 minute drive to the big city of Olbia, where you can fly to and from.

Places to stay in San Teodoro

San Teodoro is a trendy holiday area, so booking ahead is essential if you want to stay in this part of Sardinia. Let’s look at a few good hotels in San Teodoro.

For travellers looking for a beach holiday with added luxury, Hotel L’Esagono in San Teodoro will fulfil all wishes.

Tucked away in lush gardens, this charming hotel presents a picture-perfect view of the sparkling blue sea.

With its own almost private beach and a 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 in the sunbed by the pool or the beach while sipping a cool refreshment from the hotel bar.

The rooms at Hotel L’Esagono are light and airy, all with a private terrace, giving you an extra degree of privacy.

Hotel L’Esagono in San Teodoro is a true oasis that offers a mix of relaxation and luxury. A place where travellers can relax in scenic surroundings and indulge in the finer things of life under the radiant Sardinian sun.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Le Mimose in San Teodoro is a good choice for those who want to experience Sardinia without breaking the bank.

The hotel is a bit away from the beach, but it is definitely within reach if you are okay with walking the approx. 20 minutes it takes to get 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 include modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

One of the hotel’s highlights is the large pool surrounded by lush gardens. Here you can relax, swim, and sunbathe on one of the many deckchairs.

At Hotel Le Mimose, you get value for money, friendly and welcoming staff, and a chance to experience San Teodoro relaxed and effortlessly.

See more photos and book here.

Places to Avoid in Sardinia ‼️

Choosing 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 travel to and from the island as they have ferry ports. But they are also the centre of heavy industry. They can’t offer the same charm and beauty as many other towns in Sardinia.

Deserted villages in the island’s inland: Many small villages in the interior of Sardinia have a rustic charm but can only be inaccessible with a 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 are on a budget: This is one of Sardinia’s most famous and expensive regions, known for luxury resorts and high-end shopping. If you travel on a tight budget, choose a less touristy area.

Do you want to see why Sardinia is such a famous island? I think this video does a great job of showing that:

As previously mentioned, we ended up staying in Olbia, which was not our first choice – but hotels in the smaller towns right next to the beaches were so expensive that we booked into a hotel in Olbia, rented a car and went on many excursions.

Remember that what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Therefore, it is essential to consider what you want to get out of your holiday in Sardinia before choosing where to stay.

Sardinia is a diverse island that offers something for every traveller, whether you’re looking for sun-kissed beaches, historic cities, vibrant nightlife or peace.

From the cosmopolitan vibe 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 choose to 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 where to stay in Sardinia or the island, please comment below.

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