6-Day Itinerary: Exploring the North of Sardinia in August

Day 1: Arrival in Olbia & Local Discovery

Morning: Arrive at Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Olbia, exploring quaint streets and local shops.

Afternoon: Visit the Basilica of San Simplicio, one of Sardinia’s oldest Romanesque churches, followed by lunch at a local trattoria.

Evening: Enjoy a sunset walk along Olbia’s waterfront promenade and dine at a seaside restaurant sampling fresh seafood.

Day 2: Costa Smeralda Beaches & Porto Cervo

Morning: Spend the morning at the famous Liscia Ruja Beach, relaxing on white sands and swimming in crystal-clear water.

Afternoon: Head to Porto Cervo, the glamorous heart of Costa Smeralda. Explore luxury boutiques and the picturesque marina.

Evening: Have dinner at a chic restaurant in Porto Cervo followed by a stroll around the vibrant piazzas.

Day 3: Maddalena Archipelago Excursion

Morning: Take a ferry from Palau to La Maddalena Island. Rent a scooter or bike to explore the island’s charming town and waterfront.

Afternoon: Join a boat tour to visit nearby islands like Caprera and swim in secluded coves such as Cala Coticcio.

Evening: Return to Palau for dinner, trying local specialties like seafood pasta.

Day 4: Historical Castelsardo & Nature Walks

Morning: Drive to Castelsardo, a medieval hilltop town. Visit the Castello dei Doria and admire panoramic views of the coastline.

Afternoon: Explore the town’s artisan shops and enjoy lunch with views of the Gulf of Asinara. Take a short hike around nearby nature trails.

Evening: Dine in Castelsardo's old town, savoring traditional Sardinian dishes.

Day 5: Stintino & La Pelosa Beach

Morning: Travel to Stintino and spend the morning at La Pelosa Beach, famed for its turquoise waters and fine sand.

Afternoon: Visit the Asinara National Park Visitor Center and consider a guided tour of parts of the park (optional).

Evening: Return to Stintino village for a relaxed dinner and a seaside walk.

Day 6: Relaxation & Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a final swim or walk along Rena Bianca Beach in Santa Teresa Gallura.

Afternoon: Explore Santa Teresa Gallura town, visit the Longonsardo Tower, and grab lunch before heading to the airport.

Evening: Depart from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport or from nearby ferry ports if continuing travel.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Olbia Basilica of San Simplicio – 1.5 hours – €5 entry
• Liscia Ruja Beach – 3 hours – Free
• Porto Cervo Shopping & Marina – 2 hours – Free (shopping varies)
• Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour – 5 hours – ~€50
• Castello dei Doria, Castelsardo – 1.5 hours – €6 entry
• La Pelosa Beach – 4 hours – Parking €5
• Asinara National Park Guided Tour (optional) – 3 hours – ~€40
• Longonsardo Tower, Santa Teresa Gallura – 1 hour – €3 entry

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately €109 (excluding meals, accommodation, transport & optional purchases)

Tips

For travelers wishing to extend their trip, consider adding an extra day to fully explore the Asinara National Park or take a longer sailing trip around the Maddalena Archipelago. To reduce the duration, focus on either the Costa Smeralda area (Days 1-2) or the Maddalena & Stintino beaches (Days 3 & 5), skipping day trips to Castelsardo and Santa Teresa Gallura.