Are you a fan of spontaneous weekends, last-minute flights and hassle-free trips? Today we want to give you a few tips for your next holiday in Sardinia so that, even if it’s a last-minute plan, you’ll know exactly what to visit and how to get around easily.

How to organise a trip to Sardinia

The first and most important tip if you want complete freedom while exploring the island is to book a rental car. It’s the best choice when you have little time and don’t want to waste a single minute. This way, you can plan your itinerary over just a few days and organise your tour in the most efficient way. You don’t need to book a car or scooter far in advance—especially if you’re travelling during low season. Simply choose your arrival airport and rent your vehicle right after booking your flight. Your weekend will be ready for take-off.

The same applies to accommodation. Throughout the year you can easily find lodging options that suit every need. Things get more complicated in summer, which is why we recommend avoiding peak season if you don’t want to plan well ahead.

Which places should you visit? We have already talked about the destinations to see in 7 days on our blog, but what happens when you only have a weekend available?

Sardinia in one weekend

Let’s say you arrive on the island on Friday evening and have the whole of Saturday and Sunday available. You have two options: focus on one area — either the north or the south — or organise a coast-to-coast trip, picking up your rental car at one airport and choosing the option to return the vehicle elsewhere.

Arriving in Cagliari

If you land at Cagliari Airport, you can spend your weekend exploring the city, including its urban beach — the Poetto — the Molentargius wetlands with their beautiful pink flamingos, and even take a short trip inland to visit one of the island’s main symbols: the nuraghe. The most emblematic one to visit is Su Nuraxi di Barumini, located 60 km from Cagliari.

If you’ve already visited the city and want to dedicate your weekend to discovering other wonders of the island, you’re spoilt for choice. A great alternative is exploring the area around Carbonia and Iglesias, with their mining villages and the numerous caves that can be visited throughout the region.

Arriving in Olbia

The same applies if you arrive at Olbia Airport. The city offers several interesting places to explore. And if you’ve already visited Olbia, you can venture out to its surroundings: the island of Tavolara, La Maddalena, the beaches of San Teodoro, or head inland to discover mystical areas and the beautiful beaches of the Ogliastra.

If, instead, you’d like to plan a coast-to-coast weekend, we suggest focusing your limited time on the places that match your interests best:

  • if you love beaches, you can start with San Teodoro, the north-eastern coast or the beaches of La Maddalena, then drive south towards Cagliari along the eastern coast, stopping whenever you wish to admire the scenery and its stunning beaches;
  • if you prefer archaeological sites, follow the main road connecting Olbia and Cagliari — the SS 131 — and enjoy a few short detours. You’ll find plenty of them: nuraghi, giants’ tombs, sacred wells, and domus de janas;
  • if you’re a fan of nature trails, don’t miss Su Gorropu, the Tiscali Village, Cala Goloritzè and many other destinations that will satisfy your desire for outdoor adventures.

Ready for your weekend? Don’t forget to rent the car that will accompany you on this wonderful break from your daily routine!