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Discover the wonders of sardinia on an alghero road trip

Sardinia, a stunning Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a popular destination for travelers looking for beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture. One of the best ways to explore the island’s beauty is by embarking on a road trip, starting from the charming city of Alghero.

A 2-week itinerary to experience the best of Sardinian road trips

While itineraries can be tweaked according to your interests and wishes, we recommend dedicating at least two weeks to this magical island, allowing enough time to soak in its essence while taking advantage of various towns, activities, and accommodations along the way.

  1. Day 1: Begin in Alghero, take a cooking class, and stroll through the old town basking in historical ambiance.
  2. Day 2: Drive north and stop for a refreshing swim at one of the secluded beaches with turquoise waters before visiting the Grotte di Nettuno.
  3. Days 3-5: Explore inland towns and villages amid lush mountainous landscapes and enjoy local experiences.
  4. Days 6-7: Journey towards Olbia, passing through picturesque seaside villages and wrapping up the northern Sardinian leg of your road trip.
  5. Days 8-9: Discover the eastern coastal treasures of San Teodoro and Golfo Aranci as you make your way south.
  6. Days 10-11: Visit Cagliari, the island’s enchanting capital, savoring its rich history, architecture, and culinary delights.
  7. Days 12-14: Continue down the southeastern coastline, exploring breathtaking beaches and charming villages before returning to Alghero.

You can rent a car in Sardinia to embark on this adventure. For your convenience, you might consider booking a car rental sardinia alghero.

The charm of Alghero: A perfect starting point

Alghero is a place where rich history meets modern lifestyle. Apart from its stunning cobblestone streets and picturesque old town, it offers excellent restaurants and trendy bars. It’s an ideal starting point for a road trip as it provides easy access to both the northern and southern parts of the island.

Highlights not to miss in Alghero

  • Cattedrale di Santa Maria: Visit this beautiful 15th-century cathedral with an attractive mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements.
  • Grotte di Nettuno: A must-see natural attraction reachable by a scenic boat ride or hiking path along the cliffside.
  • Museo Diocesano d’Arte Sacra: Discover a rich collection of religious art inside this museum housed in a former convent.
  • Torre di Porta Terra: Climb up this ancient tower for fantastic panoramic views of the city’s skyline and surrounding landscapes.

Discovering the captivating Northwestern coast

As you drive north from Alghero, you’ll be astounded by the rugged beauty of Sardinia’s Northwestern coast. Every turn presents jaw-dropping views of the coastline, with secluded coves and picture-perfect beaches waiting to be explored. On this leg of your road trip, be sure to stop at Stintino, La Pelosa Beach, Castelsardo, and Santa Teresa Gallura offering some of the best visual delights on the island.

Activities along the Northwestern coastal route

  • Beach hopping: Take a break from driving and enjoy an afternoon sunbathing or engaging in water sports like windsurfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
  • Hiking and nature walks: Experience the island’s natural splendor by hiking through protected wildlife reserves or strolling through regional parks.
  • Visit charming seaside towns: Immerse yourself in village life as you explore local markets, dine at traditional trattorias, and mingle with welcoming locals.

A journey through Sardinia’s picturesque inland regions

The lush hinterland of Sardinia provides a welcome contrast to the azure waters that skirt it. As you venture into the heart of the island, enchanting landscapes dotted with quaint villages unfold around you. Drive along winding roads beneath mountain shadows and bask in a wholly different aspect of Sardinian culture by visiting places such as Nuoro, Dorgali, and Orgosolo.

Must-see attractions in Sardinia’s inland regions

  • Museo Etnografico Nuorese: Learn about traditional Sardinian life through the extensive collections showcased in this ethnographic museum.
  • Gola Su Gorroppu: Spend a day hiking through Europe’s deepest gorge, taking in its breathtaking beauty and unique flora and fauna.
  • Monte Corrasi: Challenge yourself with a climb up the iconic peak for unparalleled vistas of Barbagia and Supramonte mountain ranges.

With its diversity in landscapes, attractions, and experiences, a road trip through Sardinia reveals the multifaceted beauty of this Italian gem. As you set off on your journey from Alghero, make sure to take the time to admire the island’s scenic wonders while creating unforgettable memories along the way.