Planning a holiday and in search of the perfect destination? Look no further than the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, an Italian gem full of beauty, culture, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.
Sardinia is a charmingly tranquil Italian island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea between Corsica and Sicily. This serene Mediterranean paradise boasting crystal-clear beaches, rolling mountains, and lush vegetation offers much to explore. Its white-sand shoreline makes it one of Europe’s most stunning locations for beachgoers that enjoy its stunning oceanic views. It”s also historically rich with ancient architecture such as Neolithic villages and Nuraghe towers.
No matter what type of traveler you are looking for, Sardinia provides something special for every kind of holidaymaker – from lively festivals to peaceful sunbathing on quiet beaches there is something here to suit all styles and budgets. Let us explore some of the key attractions that make Sardinia a sought-after travel destination!
Explore the Island of Sardinia – Why It’s a Good Holiday Destination
Sardinia is a stunning Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea, full of beauty and culture. With crystal-clear beaches, rolling mountains, and lush vegetation, it’s an ideal destination for beachgoers, adventurers, and those looking for a peaceful getaway. Let’s explore why Sardinia is such a great holiday destination!
What makes Sardinia a good holiday destination?
Sardinia is a great destination for those looking to explore the Mediterranean. With its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and ancient architecture, there is something here for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure-filled exploration of the island, Sardinia has it all.
The island also offers plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. From water sports such as sailing and diving to hiking and biking, there are plenty of ways to explore the island. There are also a variety of cultural attractions such as museums, galleries, and archaeological sites that provide insight into the island’s rich history.
The food in Sardinia is another highlight of the destination. With its unique blend of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes. From fresh seafood to traditional Italian dishes, there is something here to satisfy every palate.
Also, the island is home to some of the best wines in Italy. With its unique terroir, Sardinia produces some of the most sought-after wines in the world.
Overall, Sardinia is a great holiday destination for those looking to explore the Mediterranean. With its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and ancient architecture, there is something here for everyone. From water sports and cultural attractions to delicious cuisine, Sardinia has it all!
Where to go in Sardinia with kids
Sardinia is a great destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing holiday. With its stunning beaches, picturesque towns, and plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, it’s no wonder that Sardinia is becoming an increasingly popular family destination. The Villasimius area in Southern Sardinia is a great place to start, with its fantastic beaches and good facilities for kids.
Orosei in Eastern Sardinia is another lovely locality for families, with pretty beaches, a nice town center, and green areas. Stintino in Northern Sardinia is home to La Pelosa beach, one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. San Teodoro also offers plenty of family-friendly activities such as La Cinta beach and a kids’ playground. Olbia port is the closest to San Teodoro making it easy to explore independently or with a guide. To get to Sardinia you can fly into Alghero or Cagliari airports or take a ferry from mainland Italy.
The best things to do in Sardinia with family
Sardinia is a great destination for families looking for a summer vacation. With stunning beaches, plenty of accommodation options, and kid-friendly activities, it’s the perfect place to spend quality time with your family. The Villasimius area in Southern Sardinia is a great place to start, with fantastic beaches and good facilities. Orosei in Eastern Sardinia also offers family-friendly accommodations, pretty beaches, and a nice town center. Stintino in Northern Sardinia is home to La Pelosa beach, one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. It’s also a great family-friendly destination with plenty of accommodation options. San Teodoro is another popular spot for families, featuring La Cinta beach and a kids’ playground. Olbia is the closest port to both Stintino and San Teodoro, making it easy to explore the area independently or with a guide.
Sardinia has something for everyone – toddlers can enjoy the beaches, older kids can explore the ancient ruins and adults can relax in the many restaurants and bars. With its stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities for all ages, Sardinia is a great holiday destination for families.
Simius Beach, Villasimius
Simius Beach is a popular beach in Sardinia for families, with soft sand and clean, shallow water. It is ideal for activities such as splashing, sunbathing, snorkeling, and kayaking. The beach is close to the village of Villa Simius, providing access to both a wonderful beach and a small-town feel. Villasimius is a former fishing village in southeast Sardinia with stunning beaches, amazing natural beauty, and wildlife. It has a lively nightlife, an archaeological museum, and various archaeological sites from the Nuraghi era. The Virgin of the Sea festival takes place every July, with decorated crafts heading towards Isola dei Cavoli for a prayer to remember sailors who drowned. Villasimius is also home to the Santa Maria festival in early September which features fireworks and entertainment.
Accommodation options range from budget B&Bs to camping, ensuring a value vacation. The area boasts stunning beaches, amazing natural beauty, and some of the best seafood in Italy. With its stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities for all ages, Sardinia is a great holiday destination for families.
Porto Giunco, Villasimius
Porto Giunco is a great beach for families with small kids, located in Villasimius, Sardinia. With shallow water and soft sand, it is perfect for little ones to play in the waves and build sandcastles. Facilities such as umbrellas and beach loungers can be rented at the beach, making it easy to enjoy a day out with the family. At the back of the beach, there is the locality of Notteri where you can see flamingoes.
Su Giudeo beach is another kid-friendly beach in Chia, Sardinia. It has white sand and crystal clear waters that gently degrade into the sea, making it ideal for small children who want to explore without getting too deep. There is also a rocky island nearby which makes snorkeling an exciting activity for older kids. Su Giudeo has good parking facilities and food options available as well as equipment rentals so you can make sure your day out is comfortable and enjoyable.
Su Giudeo Beach, Chia, Domus de Maria
Su Giudeo beach in Chia, Sardinia is a great spot for families with young children. The white sand and crystal clear waters make it perfect for small kids to play in the shallow water while older kids can explore the nearby rocky island and go snorkeling. Su Giudeo also offers good parking, food facilities, and rentals of beach umbrellas, canoes, and pedal boats.
Chia is known for its 6 km of transparent waters and the homonym tower, as well as the archaeological site of Nora which dates back to Punic times. Accommodation options in the area include Chia Laguna and Hotel Aquadulci. Faro Capo Spartivento is surrounded by a wild and unspoiled nature with Mediterranean scrub growing with its splendid colors and scents. The Lighthouse stands on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering an opportunity to enjoy the silence of nature.
Spiaggia della Pelosa Beach, Stintino
Spiaggia della Pelosa Beach in Stintino is a stunning beach on the northwestern coast of Sardinia. With its soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s no wonder why La Pelosa is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It’s a great spot for families with kids but can get very busy and expensive during peak times. To avoid the crowds, book early and explore some of the nearby beaches such as Le Saline, Ezzi Mannu, or Tamarisk Beach for an emptier spot.
Stintino itself is a quaint fishing village located roughly 50 kilometers from Alghero. The village offers plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained such as boat trips around the island or exploring the local markets. There are also plenty of restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure-filled holiday, Spiagg ia della Pelosa Beach in Stintino is a great holiday destination.
La Cinta, San Teodoro
Santa Teresa di Gallura is a beautiful town located on the northernmost tip of Sardinia. It is known for its stunning beaches, including Rena di Ponente, Rena di Levante, Capo Testa, Cala Spinosa, and Valle Della Luna. There are also two ancient Nuragic sites to visit – Lu Brandali and Sa Testa.
One of the most popular beaches in Santa Teresa di Gallura is La Cinta. This family-friendly beach has shallow waters and white sand that make it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It also has convenient parking, restrooms, showers, umbrellas, and loungers for rent. For those looking to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink after a day at the beach, there is a restaurant and cafe on the shore. La Cinta is an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy some quality time together in the sun!
Cala Ginepro, Orosei
Cala Ginepro is a stunning beach located in Orosei, Sardinia. It is the perfect spot for families looking to enjoy a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. The beach is sheltered by natural rock formations, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are shallow and crystal clear, providing an excellent environment for children to play safely. Additionally, there is an umbrella pine forest nearby that offers plenty of shade and exploration opportunities.
The beach itself has plenty of amenities available such as umbrellas, lounge chairs, and restaurants. There are also several activities to enjoy such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. Cala Ginepro is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the area where visitors can sample some of the freshest catches from local fishermen. With its beautiful scenery and abundance of activities, Cala Ginepro is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit!
Have fun in a theme parks
Aqua fantasy is a great water park located in Sardinia that offers a variety of fun activities for all ages. With slides, lazy rivers, and pools, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park also has a variety of safety measures in place to ensure the safety of its guests. Swimming caps may be required in some areas and there may be minimum length requirements for attractions and slides.
Sardegna in Miniatura is another popular theme park on the island that features miniature replicas of the whole of Sardinia. In addition to this unique attraction, visitors can explore an aquarium, dinosaur park, astronomy museum, and planetarium. Le Ragnatele Adventure Park is also a great option for those looking for an adrenaline rush as it offers three top adventure courses and ziplining. There are several water parks throughout Sardinia that offer fun ways to cool off during the hot summer months such as Aquadream, Water Paradise, Aqua Fantasy, and Splash Aquapark.
Explore Alghero
Alghero is a stunning town located in northwestern Sardinia, Italy. It has a unique Catalan history and culture that makes it an interesting place to explore. The city overlooks the sea and is easy to explore on foot, with plenty of sights to see. One of the most popular attractions is the Campanile Bell Tower, which stands tall over the city and offers amazing views of Alghero. Other towers worth visiting include San Francesco church and several other towers.
The city itself is vibrant and lively, full of boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are also stunning bastions to visit for sightseeing. For those who love seafood, Nautilus restaurant offers some of the best seafood in town. With its unique history and culture, Alghero is a great destination for anyone looking for an exciting holiday destination with plenty to explore!
Explore Cagliari
Cagliari is the main city of Sardinia and a great destination for families. The historical center, parks, promenade, and cycling paths offer plenty of sightseeing opportunities. Cagliari is a great place to explore with kids, offering activities for all ages. Popular amenities include infinity pools, private beaches, and pet-friendly motels.
Popular attractions in Sardinia include the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena and Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio. Hotels near popular beaches and attractions in Sardinia, such as Spiaggia Rena Bianca, Delcomar, Tharros, Cala Sinzias, Spiaggia di Cala Spalmatore, and Spiaggia Testa di Polpo are available for visitors to stay at during their trip.
See wild horses in Parco della Giara
Parco della Giara is a unique natural area located in Sardinia, Italy. It is home to the rare and beautiful ‘Cavalli della giara’, wild horses that are bigger than ponies but smaller than other more common horse species. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural environment, making it an unforgettable experience. To make the most of this visit, it is recommended to go with a guide and bring walking shoes and sun protection if visiting during summer.
Sardinia is an enchanting destination in the Mediterranean Sea, renowned for its sunny coasts and white sandy beaches. There are many places to explore here, from renowned towns and cities to characteristic islands and important sites of historical and cultural interest. Whether you are traveling as a couple or with your family, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay in Sardinia.
Go snorkeling with kids
Sardinia is a great place for beginner snorkelers, including kids. With its crystal clear waters and diverse marine life, it’s the perfect spot to explore the underwater world. Gear up kids with goggles and water shoes to explore the area. Popular snorkeling spots in Sardinia for kids include La Carbonara, Villasimius, Stintino, and Budoni. These locations offer shallow waters and plenty of fish to observe.
Tavolara is an uninhabited island off the coast of Sardinia, near Olbia, and is a great place for snorkeling. It can be reached by ferry boat from Porto San Paolo (20 minutes), Olbia (1 hour), or Golfo Aranci (1.5 hours). Renting a boat or a kayak is also an option for older children who want to explore further out into the sea. The island offers an array of colorful coral reefs and tropical fish that will captivate kids of all ages.
Take a ride on Trenino Verde (Little Green Train)
Take a ride on Trenino Verde, Sardinia’s Little Green Train, for a vintage rickety ride. The Trenino Verde is a green train that runs through the beautiful landscape of Sardinia. It is one of the largest small railways in the world and offers four different tourist routes. Choose from several journeys/destinations to discover areas of Sardinia otherwise hard to reach. Perfect for toddlers and young primary school kids – fun for the whole family!
The train passes over bridges, stations, and houses in an environment only accessible by rail. Enjoy views of the countryside as you travel along winding tracks, passing through tunnels and over viaducts. The journey will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in Sardinia, with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and rivers. You can even stop off at some of the villages along the way to explore further or sample some local delicacies. So why not take a ride on Trenino Verde and explore the beauty of Sardinia?
Visit a prehistoric Nuraghi
Nuraghi are prehistoric remains found only in Sardinia, and they offer a unique glimpse into the past. One of the best places to visit and see them is Nuraghe Losa, which is an ancient fortress that dates back to the Bronze Age. It features a large tower with steep passages and chambers, making it suitable for older kids.
Another great place to explore these fascinating ruins is Arzachena Prehistoric Sites. Here you can find a variety of attractions including nuraghi, burial sites, and chambered tombs such as Coddu Vecchiu and Li Lolghi with their unique entrances. After exploring these ancient ruins, visitors can relax at Tenuta Pilastru which offers tastefully decorated cottages and an outstanding restaurant with stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer stay, visiting the Nuraghi of Sardinia is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Visit a mine with kids
The Porto Flavia Mine in Sardinia is a unique and scenic site that offers visitors the chance to explore an old mine tunnel, take in the views from the belvedere, and even experience a suspended port. It’s the perfect place for families to visit with kids, as they can explore the mine on their own or join one of the tours available from Cagliari or Chia. The tour guides are knowledgeable about the history of mining in Sardinia and can provide interesting facts about the area.
Sardinia also has plenty of other activities for families with kids to enjoy. Aqua fantasy is a water park with slides, lazy rivers, and pools that will keep everyone entertained for hours. At Sardegna in Miniatura, visitors can explore miniature replicas of Sardinia, an aquarium, a dinosaur park, an astronomy museum, and a planetarium.
What to pack to visit Sardinia with family
Visiting Sardinia with kids is a great way to explore the beautiful Mediterranean island. With its stunning beaches, picturesque towns, and plenty of family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. To make sure you have an enjoyable and safe trip, it’s important to pack the right items. Swimsuits, snorkeling gear, and water shoes are essential for exploring the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia. Beach essentials such as towels, sunscreen, sun hat, and beach toys will also come in handy. Sunglasses are also a must-have for protecting your eyes from the strong Mediterranean sun.
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Sardinia with kids, there are plenty of options. Villasimius in Southern Sardinia is a great place for families with fantastic beaches and good facilities. Orosei in Eastern Sardinia offers family-friendly accommodations, pretty beaches, a nice town center, and lovely green areas. Stintino in Northern Sardinia is another great option with its stunning beaches and family-friendly activities.
How to get to Sardinia with family
Sardinia is a great destination for families looking to enjoy a holiday in the sun. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that Sardinia is becoming increasingly popular with families. The best way to get to Sardinia with kids is by plane or ferry, with the main airports being Alghero and Cagliari.
Popular departure points for ferries include Civitavecchia, Livorno, Piombino, Genoa, Marseille (France), and Barcelona (Spain). Once you arrive in Sardinia, renting a car is the best way to travel around as a family.
Final Thoughts on Sardinia
Sardinia is an excellent holiday destination for families looking to enjoy some quality time together in the sun. With its stunning beaches, ancient Nuragic sites, and variety of theme parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Sardinia has it all!
