7-Day Sardegna Scenic Road Trip Itinerary by Car

Day 1: Cagliari Exploration

Cagliari, Sardegna on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Svizzero

Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and fresh pastries at this popular local café in the heart of Cagliari.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Bastione di Saint Remy

Explore this prominent historical fortress with panoramic views of the city, perfect for early sightseeing and photography.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Stroll Castello District

Discover narrow cobbled streets, old churches, and the Cagliari Cathedral. This historic quarter gives insight into Sardinia’s rich heritage.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Antica Cagliari

Enjoy Sardinian specialities like bottarga and fresh seafood in a traditional setting near the city center.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Poetto Beach

Relax or take a walk along the 8km sandy stretch of Poetto Beach, experiencing a local hotspot for both tourists and residents.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Sa Domu Sarda

Savor traditional Sardinian dishes including culurgiones and roasted lamb in a cozy ambiance near Cagliari’s historic center.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nora and Chia Beaches

Pula, Sardegna on May 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or local bar

Start early with a light breakfast featuring Italian espresso and brioche at your accommodation or nearby café before heading out.
EUR7, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Nora Archaeological Site

Explore the ruins of the ancient Roman and Phoenician settlement on the coast near Pula, open from 9am to 7pm.
EUR8, 2h0m

11:00am

Relax at Nora Beach

Enjoy some beach time in a tranquil setting close to the archaeological site, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Su Furriadroxu

Taste fresh Mediterranean seafood dishes and traditional Sardinian cuisine in nearby Pula town.
EUR25, 1h15m

2:00pm

Drive to Chia Beaches

Head to Chia to discover some of Sardinia’s most stunning beaches with white sand dunes and clear turquoise waters.
Free, 3h0m

5:30pm

Evening drive back to Pula

Return to Pula for overnight stay, enjoying scenic coastal views on the drive.
Free, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Agriturismo Su Foghile

Experience authentic rural Sardinian cuisine with seasonal local ingredients in a countryside setting near Pula.
EUR30, 2h0m
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Day 3: Villasimius and Costa Rei

Villasimius, Sardegna on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bar Caffetteria Pasticceria Sorso39

Enjoy a fresh coffee and pastry to energize your morning in Villasimius.
EUR6, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Villasimius Beaches

Spend time at Spiaggia di Simius or Punta Molentis known for crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Il Miraggio

Located near the Marina, offers excellent seafood and Mediterranean dishes with sea views.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Drive to Costa Rei

Explore the long stretches of sandy beaches and take an easy coastal walk or relax by the sea.
Free, 2h30m

5:00pm

Return to Villasimius town center

Walk around the quaint town, enjoy local shops and cafes before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Su Forreddu

Try traditional Sardinian grilled meats and homemade bread in this rustic restaurant known for local flavors.
EUR28, 2h0m
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Day 4: Orgosolo and Nuoro Culture

Nuoro, Sardegna on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Nuoro Café

Fuel up with espresso and local sweets before heading to Orgosolo.
EUR5, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Orgosolo

Visit the town famous for its politically charged murals depicting Sardinian history and culture.
Free, 2h0m

10:30am

Explore Nuoro Museum of Sardinian Life and Traditions

Gain insight into the island’s rural heritage and crafts, open 9am-5pm.
EUR6, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Zia Maria

Savor hearty Sardinian mountain dishes like lamb and gnocchetti alla campidanese in Nuoro center.
EUR25, 1h15m

2:00pm

Afternoon hike on Monte Ortobene

Enjoy panoramic views over Nuoro and surrounding mountains; easy trail suitable for all levels.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Locanda Su Vrau

Relish traditional cooking with elegant presentation featuring local ingredients in a welcoming atmosphere.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 5: Gulf of Orosei Adventure

Cala Gonone, Sardegna on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick breakfast to prepare for a day of exploring the coast and mountains.
EUR5, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Cala Gonone

Arrive to this lovely town by mid-morning to begin exploration of the Gulf of Orosei coastline.
Free, 1h30m

9:00am

Boat tour to Cala Luna and other coves

Take a 3-4 hour boat trip trip showcasing spectacular caves and turquoise beaches along the coast.
EUR35, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante La Terrazza

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes with stunning sea views near the harbor.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Bue Marino Caves

Visit these famous sea caves often included in tours or accessible independently by boat or kayak.
EUR10 kayak rental (optional), 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Su Nuraxi

Taste a blend of Sardinian and Mediterranean dishes in a warm local setting to end the day.
EUR28, 2h0m
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Day 6: Alghero and Neptune's Grotto

Alghero, Sardegna on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Blau

Relax with a cappuccino and brioche in this popular café near Alghero’s old town.
EUR6, 0h45m

8:30am

Explore Alghero Old Town

Walk through charming streets filled with Catalan Gothic architecture, visiting landmarks such as the Cathedral of St. Mary.
Free, 2h0m

10:30am

Drive to Neptune's Grotto

Take a scenic 20-minute drive to this stunning sea cave; guided tours run from 9:00am to 5:30pm.
EUR13, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Il Pavone

Dine on freshly caught seafood and Sardinian specialties in the heart of Alghero.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk the Alghero Coastal Promenade

Enjoy the sea views and take photos while relaxing on this scenic walkway along the coast.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Maristella

Conclude your day with delicious traditional Sardinian food paired with local wines in a friendly atmosphere.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 7: Sassari and Castelsardo

Northern Sardegna on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bar Biella, Sassari

Enjoy a strong espresso and cornetto to start your final day on the island.
EUR5, 0h45m

8:30am

Explore Sassari City Center

Visit the Piazza d’Italia, Fontana di Rosello, and the Cathedral of St. Nicholas for a cultural morning walk.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Drive to Castelsardo

Travel 45 minutes to this medieval town perched on a hill overlooking the sea, famous for its castle and crafts.
Free, 0h45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante La Lampara

Feast on fresh local seafood and regional dishes within stunning views of the Gulf of Asinara.
EUR30, 1h30m

1:30pm

Castelsardo Castle Visit

Explore the Doria Castle and its museum, offering historic insights and panoramic vistas.
EUR5, 1h30m

3:00pm

Craft Shopping and Stroll

Browse local shops specializing in basket weaving and ceramics — traditional crafts of Castelsardo.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Drive back to Sassari or airport

Conclude your trip with an easy drive to Sassari city or nearby airport for your departure preparations.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant

Enjoy a farewell dinner reflecting on your Sardinian road trip highlights with a local wine or dessert.
EUR30, 2h0m
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