FLY & DRIVE: Sardinia

Day dedicated to arrival and the first contact with the city, ideal to get settled and start experiencing the Sardinian atmosphere.

Sardinia is an island of unique charm, where unspoiled nature, millenary history and vibrant traditions blend into an extraordinary landscape. Fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters alternate with wild mountains and dense forests, while ancient villages tell stories of Nuragic civilizations, Phoenician, Roman and medieval dominations. Sardinian culture is strongly expressed in its food and wine: from the intense flavors of pecorino and bottarga to robust wines such as Cannonau, including pane carasau and traditional sweets. Music, handicrafts and popular festivals enrich the experience of anyone visiting the island, immersing them in an authentic and engaging atmosphere.

Arrival at the airport and, after picking up the rental car, departure to the hotel in Cagliari.

Overnight stay in Cagliari.

Dedicate the day to exploring Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, wandering through the historic center, squares, markets and tasting traditional local dishes. You can choose among the suggested experiences to make the most of the city and, if you wish, travel to Nora to visit this extraordinary archaeological site, combining history, nature and culture.

Cagliari

A lively and fascinating capital of Sardinia, Cagliari is a mosaic of history, art, and nature. From the evocative Castello district with its ancient walls and the Bastion of Saint Remy, to the rich National Archaeological Museum that preserves millennia-old artifacts, every corner tells unique stories. Cagliari also enchants visitors with its golden beaches and a cuisine full of authentic flavors, including

porceddu,culurgiones, and the prestigious Cannonau wines.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Cagliari’s historic center

A fascinating walk through the Castello district, the historic heart of the city, along narrow cobbled streets, medieval towers, and ancient walls that have preserved centuries of history. From the Cathedral of Santa Maria to the panoramic bastions overlooking the sea and the city, the visit weaves together art, legends, and stories spanning different eras, offering a journey through time across Sardinian dominations, traditions, and culture.

Food and wine tour with tasting in Cagliari

A sensory journey through the authentic flavors of Sardinia. Tasting local wines such as Cannonau and Vermentino, accompanied by typical products like pecorino cheeses, artisanal cured meats, carasau bread, and traditional sweets. The tour includes stops in wine bars and historic shops in the city.

Suggested experience:

Boat excursion to explore Cagliari’s coast and beaches

Departure from the port of Cagliari for a full day by boat exploring the stunning coves and beaches along Sardinia’s southern coast. Swimming in crystal-clear waters, snorkeling, and relaxing in unspoiled natural landscapes with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Angels.

Recommended places and activities:

Nora

Nora is one of the oldest cities on the island, with Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman roots. Its archaeological ruins extend along the sea, including theaters, temples, mosaics, and paved streets that tell centuries of history. Walking through Nora allows visitors to immerse themselves in antiquity while enjoying views of the Mediterranean and the natural beauty of the Sardinian coast.

Archaeological tour of Nora

Guided visit to the archaeological site of Nora, an ancient Phoenician-Punic and Roman city located on a promontory overlooking the sea. Excavations, mosaics, and ruins tell the millennia-old history of this evocative area, easily accessible from Cagliari.

Overnight stay in Cagliari.

Departure from Cagliari to Sassari

After leaving Cagliari, travel to Sassari, the second largest city in Sardinia, known for its elegant historic center, lively squares, historic churches, and vibrant cultural and artisanal traditions. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and have time to get settled in the city, stroll through the main streets, or simply relax after the journey.

Overnight stay in Sassari.

Dedicate the day to exploring Sassari, the second largest city in Sardinia, wandering through the historic center, squares, churches, and markets, while tasting traditional local dishes. You can choose among the suggested experiences to make the most of the city and, if you wish, travel to Alghero to discover its charming historic center and the natural beauty of the coast, combining history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Suggested and bookable experiences:

Guided tour of Sassari’s historic center

Discover the wonders of Sassari with an expert guide who will lead you through elegant squares, historic buildings, and iconic monuments such as the Cathedral of San Nicola and the Ducal Palace. A journey through art, history, and culture to explore the vibrant heart of Sardinia’s second city.

Visit to the National Sanna Museum

Explore Sardinian history and art through the collections of the National Sanna Museum, which houses archaeological finds, artifacts, and works of art that illustrate the various eras and cultures that have shaped Sardinia.

Recommended Places and Activities:

Alghero

Overlooking crystal-clear waters, Alghero is a gem of Catalan and Mediterranean influences. Its historic center, surrounded by ancient walls, is a maze of cobbled streets, lively squares, and panoramic terraces. Famous for the Coral Riviera, Alghero offers unique experiences and a vibrant atmosphere that blends history, culture, and nature.

Guided Tour of Alghero’s Historic Center

Stroll through the cobbled streets and ancient walls of this charming Catalan town. A guide will lead you through lively squares, historic churches, and noble palaces, sharing Alghero’s rich history, from its origins to the Catalan influence that still shapes its culture and language.

Boat Tour along the Coral Riviera

Discover Alghero from a unique perspective with a boat excursion along its stunning coast, famous for crystal-clear waters, sea caves, and pristine beaches. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying breathtaking natural scenery.

Visit to Neptune’s Grotto

An exciting excursion to the famous sea caves located a few kilometers from Alghero. Admire stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations, while the guide tells legends and curiosities about this spectacular natural monument.

Overnight stay in Sassari.

For the fifth day of the itinerary, departing from Sassari, some places and activities in the surroundings and in northern Sardinia are suggested as simple tips for visiting. You can choose, according to your own curiosities and interests, between the experiences offered in Bosa or on the Costa Smeralda. The described stops provide ideas to discover historic villages, coastal landscapes, and crystal-clear waters.

Bosa

Located on the banks of the Temo river, Bosa is a picturesque village in Sardinia known for its brightly colored houses, narrow cobbled streets and the Malaspina Castle overlooking the historic center. The town combines history, culture and artisanal tradition, offering sea views and an authentic atmosphere in which every corner reflects Mediterranean life.

Guided tour of the historic center of Bosa and the Malaspina Castle

Immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Bosa by walking through its colorful, paved streets. Discover the history of the town and the Malaspina Castle, while admiring breathtaking views over the Temo river and the historic center, enjoying an experience that combines history, architecture and unforgettable landscapes.

Costa Smeralda

Located in northern Sardinia, the Costa Smeralda is synonymous with spectacular landscapes, turquoise waters and fine sandy beaches. Known worldwide for its glamour, elegant marinas and exclusive resorts, the area combines nature, Sardinian tradition and sophistication. Among hidden coves, unspoiled islands and picturesque villages such as Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, every corner invites you to relax, enjoy the sea and experience unforgettable outdoor moments.

Guided tour of the Costa Smeralda

Discover the spectacular landscapes and turquoise waters of the Costa Smeralda accompanied by an expert guide. Explore hidden coves, picturesque villages such as Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, and enjoy breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. An experience that combines nature, local history and the charm of Mediterranean life.

Overnight stay in Sassari.

After the stay in Sassari, return to Cagliari. Arrival and hotel check-in.

Overnight in Cagliari.

You are back in Cagliari! To discover new places in the city, you can follow the suggested experiences. Depending on your preferences, it is also possible to visit Su Nuraxi and Oristano, choosing from the experiences we suggest.Recommended Experiences:

Bicycle or e-bike tour along the Poetto

An active and scenic experience starting from the heart of Cagliari and leading to the long Poetto beach, passing iconic sites and natural landscapes. The itinerary includes a stop at the salt pans and the Molentargius lagoon, a beautiful habitat where pink flamingos can be admired in their natural environment. A perfect mix of sport, nature, and photography.

Trenino Verde: from Cagliari to Mandas (Saturdays only)

Board the famous Trenino Verde for a scenic journey through the Sardinian hinterland, from Cagliari to Mandas. This historic route takes you through untouched rural landscapes, ancient forests, and small villages where time seems to have stopped. Ideal for discovering authentic Sardinia, combining history, nature, and culture.

Recommended Sites and Activities:

Su Nuraxi di Barumini

Su Nuraxi di Barumini is the most important nuragic site in Sardinia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built over 3,500 years ago, this ancient complex includes towers, walls, and rooms that reveal the life of the nuragic civilization. Its state of preservation and spatial organization offer a fascinating journey into the island’s prehistory.

Excursion to Su Nuraxi di Barumini

A journey through the heart of Sardinia leads to Barumini, home to the extraordinary nuragic complex declared a UNESCO Heritage Site. With an expert guide, explore the majestic stone towers, tunnels, and ancient huts that reveal the life and ingenuity of the fascinating nuragic civilization that flourished over 3,000 years ago.

Oristano

Oristano retains the charm of its medieval past, with monuments such as the Tower of Mariano II and the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Rich in popular traditions and historic festivals, Oristano is also the gateway to extraordinary natural landscapes, from the unspoiled beaches of the Sinis peninsula to the archaeological sites of Tharros. The city also offers a refined gastronomic experience based on Vernaccia wines and local organic products.

Guided Tour of Oristano

A detailed tour to discover the historic and cultural heart of the city. An expert guide leads participants through the main squares, ancient churches, and most significant monuments, sharing stories, legends, and curiosities that make this city unique.

Vernaccia Wine and Organic Product Tasting

A gastronomic experience dedicated to the authentic flavors of the territory. The tasting includes the prestigious Vernaccia wine, accompanied by selected local organic products such as cheeses, cured meats, and traditional bread, for a complete immersion in the genuine flavors of Sardinia.

Excursion to Sinis and Tharros

A day dedicated to exploring one of the most fascinating archaeological parks in Sardinia: the Sinis promontory and the ruins of Tharros. Guided visit among Phoenician, Punic, and Roman remains by the sea, with extraordinary natural landscapes and nearby unspoiled beaches.

Overnight stay in Cagliari.

It’s the last day of your fly & drive. After breakfast, depart for the recommended airport, return the vehicle, and check in for your return flight.