Nilo1926 (CC BY-SA 4.0)Explore Bastione di Saint Remy · Visit Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia · Explore Alghero Old Town · Visit Cattedrale dell’ Immacolata Concezione · Boat Trip to La Maddalena Archipelago · Explore Isola Caprera
Reviewed by Shobhit Shrivastava · Founder
7-day Italy trip — Cagliari to Alghero to Olbia. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.
Sardinia offers a rugged island escape, distinct from mainland Italy's more manicured coasts like the Amalfi. Here, ancient Nuragic stone towers rise among wild Mediterranean scrub and beaches remain largely untouched. You gain a deep dive into an ancient, independent culture alongside natural beauty. This trip is built for exploring diverse coastal landscapes, prehistoric sites and a slower pace away from mainland crowds.
Cagliari
Day 1 · Exploring Cagliari's Historic Castello District
Day 1 · A Scenic Coastal Hike
Day 2 · Enjoying Cagliari's Coastal Beauty and Beaches
Day 2 · Experiencing Local Food and Markets
Day 2 · A Water Adventure Activity
Day 3 · Discovering Ancient Nuragic Civilization
Alghero
Day 4 · Historic Walled City Exploration
Day 5 · Iconic Caves and Coastal Views
Day 6 · Ancient Nuraghe and Historical Sites
Day 6 · Explore Iconic Beaches of Costa Smeralda
Day 4 · Stroll Through Charming Sardinian Towns
Olbia
Day 7 · Boat Trip to La Maddalena Archipelago
Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.
Cagliari, Alghero, and Olbia enjoy long, sunny summers perfect for swimming, though the afternoons in July and August can feel intense. Spring and autumn bring pleasant, mild days for exploring the towns and countryside, while winter weather is cool and occasionally damp. Pack a light jacket for the shoulder seasons and prepare for warmer afternoons throughout the summer months.
Cagliari
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15 °C (59 °F) | 6 °C (43 °F) (cold) | 5 | 7:41 AM – 5:24 PM |
| Feb | 16 °C (61 °F) | 6 °C (44 °F) (cold) | 6 | 7:15 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Mar | 18 °C (64 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 8 | 6:35 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Apr | 21 °C (69 °F) | 10 °C (50 °F) | 5 | 6:47 AM – 8:00 PM |
| May | 25 °C (76 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 5 | 6:10 AM – 8:29 PM |
| Jun | 30 °C (86 °F) (hot) | 18 °C (65 °F) | 2 | 5:56 AM – 8:51 PM |
| Jul | 33 °C (91 °F) (hot) | 21 °C (70 °F) | 0 | 6:09 AM – 8:48 PM |
| Aug | 33 °C (91 °F) (hot) | 21 °C (70 °F) | 2 | 6:36 AM – 8:18 PM |
| Sep | 29 °C (85 °F) | 19 °C (65 °F) | 4 | 7:04 AM – 7:31 PM |
| Oct | 25 °C (77 °F) | 15 °C (59 °F) | 4 | 7:33 AM – 6:44 PM |
| Nov | 20 °C (67 °F) | 10 °C (51 °F) | 10 | 7:06 AM – 5:08 PM |
| Dec | 16 °C (62 °F) | 7 °C (45 °F) (cold) | 6 | 7:36 AM – 5:01 PM |
Alghero
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 14 °C (58 °F) | 7 °C (45 °F) (cold) | 9 | 7:48 AM – 5:24 PM |
| Feb | 14 °C (58 °F) | 7 °C (44 °F) (cold) | 9 | 7:20 AM – 6:01 PM |
| Mar | 16 °C (61 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 9 | 6:38 AM – 6:33 PM |
| Apr | 19 °C (66 °F) | 10 °C (50 °F) | 6 | 6:48 AM – 8:05 PM |
| May | 22 °C (72 °F) | 13 °C (55 °F) | 6 | 6:10 AM – 8:36 PM |
| Jun | 27 °C (81 °F) | 17 °C (63 °F) | 2 | 5:55 AM – 8:58 PM |
| Jul | 30 °C (86 °F) (hot) | 20 °C (67 °F) | 1 | 6:09 AM – 8:56 PM |
| Aug | 30 °C (86 °F) (hot) | 20 °C (68 °F) | 2 | 6:37 AM – 8:24 PM |
| Sep | 27 °C (81 °F) | 18 °C (64 °F) | 5 | 7:07 AM – 7:35 PM |
| Oct | 24 °C (74 °F) | 15 °C (58 °F) | 6 | 7:37 AM – 6:46 PM |
| Nov | 19 °C (66 °F) | 11 °C (52 °F) | 12 | 7:13 AM – 5:08 PM |
| Dec | 16 °C (61 °F) | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | 8 | 7:43 AM – 5:00 PM |
Olbia
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 14 °C (57 °F) | 7 °C (44 °F) (cold) | 6 | 7:44 AM – 5:18 PM |
| Feb | 14 °C (58 °F) | 7 °C (44 °F) (cold) | 7 | 7:16 AM – 5:56 PM |
| Mar | 16 °C (60 °F) | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | 8 | 6:34 AM – 6:28 PM |
| Apr | 19 °C (66 °F) | 10 °C (51 °F) | 6 | 6:43 AM – 8:01 PM |
| May | 23 °C (73 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 5 | 6:04 AM – 8:32 PM |
| Jun | 29 °C (83 °F) | 19 °C (66 °F) | 2 | 5:49 AM – 8:55 PM |
| Jul | 32 °C (90 °F) (hot) | 22 °C (72 °F) | 1 | 6:03 AM – 8:52 PM |
| Aug | 32 °C (89 °F) (hot) | 22 °C (71 °F) | 2 | 6:32 AM – 8:20 PM |
| Sep | 28 °C (82 °F) | 19 °C (66 °F) | 4 | 7:02 AM – 7:31 PM |
| Oct | 23 °C (74 °F) | 15 °C (59 °F) | 6 | 7:33 AM – 6:41 PM |
| Nov | 18 °C (65 °F) | 11 °C (52 °F) | 10 | 7:09 AM – 5:03 PM |
| Dec | 15 °C (59 °F) | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | 6 | 7:39 AM – 4:54 PM |
Carlo Dani (CC BY-SA 4.0)Upon arrival at Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), take an airport train to Cagliari city center (10-15 min, approx. $1.50-$2.50). Alternatively, a taxi directly to the hotel area will take about 15-20 minutes and cost approximately $20-25. Head to your hotel in the Castello district for check-in and to drop off luggage.
Enjoy a traditional Sardinian lunch with Culurgiones, hand-pinched pasta dumplings often filled with potato, pecorino cheese, and mint, a unique and delicious local specialty.
Typical USD 10-18 (~EUR 9-16)
Savor a delightful dinner featuring Fregola Sarda con Bottarga in Cagliari's Marina quarter. This dish showcases toasted semolina pasta with cured fish roe, a true taste of Sardinia's seafood heritage.
Typical USD 14-24 (~EUR 12-21)
Ewan Munro from London, UK (CC BY-SA 2.0)Enjoy a traditional Sardinian pasta dish, Malloreddus (small gnocchetti), often served with a rich sausage and tomato sauce, in the charming Villanova neighborhood.
Typical USD 9-15 (~EUR 8-13)
Savor thin, crispy Pane Carasau (Sardinian flatbread) with local Pecorino Sardo cheese, accompanied by other traditional appetizers, in the historic Stampace district.
Staying at Castello since Day 1
Enjoy Malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchetti) with local sausage ragu, a hearty and traditional Sardinian dish, in the historic Stampace neighborhood.
Pietro Di Fontana (CC BY-SA 4.0)Indulge in Seadas, a traditional Sardinian fried pastry filled with pecorino cheese and drizzled with honey, in the charming Villanova quarter.
Staying at Castello since Day 1
arrives about 2:00 PM
about 3 hrs door to door
Check into your hotel in Alghero and drop off your luggage.
Simon Legner (User:simon04) (CC BY-SA 4.0)Savor Fregola ai frutti di mare, a classic Sardinian semolina pasta with local seafood, at a restaurant within Alghero's historic center.
Typical USD 14-25 (~EUR 12-22)
Civa61 (CC BY-SA 4.0)Enjoy Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare, a local delicacy featuring fresh sea urchin, offering a unique taste of Alghero's coastal flavors.
Photo by Toa Heftiba on UnsplashSavor fresh lobster linguine, a signature seafood dish of Alghero, known for its rich flavors and connection to the local catch.
User:Tino (CC BY-SA 4.0)Experience Pane Frattau, a traditional Sardinian dish featuring layers of Pane Carasau (crispy flatbread) with tomato sauce, a poached egg, and Pecorino cheese.
Staying at Alghero Old Town since Day 4
Enjoy a freshly baked focaccia topped with local cured ham in a bakery in the Alghero Old Town before departing.
Take a comfortable bus transfer from Alghero to Olbia. Enjoy the scenic Sardinian landscape during the journey.
Check into your hotel in Olbia and settle in.
Véronique PAGNIER (CC BY-SA 3.0)Savor Bottarga di Muggine (cured mullet roe), a Sardinian delicacy, often served simply with pasta or as an appetizer, in the vibrant Olbia city center.
arrives about 1:30 PM
about 2 hrs 30 min door to door
Enjoy fresh seafood paired with a glass of local Vermentino di Gallura wine, celebrating the flavors of the archipelago.
Return to your hotel, complete the checkout process, and collect your luggage before heading to the airport.
Same destination, your dates, group, and pace. Generated free in about 2 minutes.
Customize this tripFreeFood, shopping & festivals
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Sardinia
Day 2 · lunch
Day 4 · lunch
Cagliari
Day 1 · lunch
Day 1 · dinner
Fregola is a toasted semolina pasta, similar to couscous. Paired with bottarga (cured fish roe), it highlights Sardinia's strong seafood tradition.
Olbia
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Olbia
Cagliari
A sweet, aromatic liqueur made from myrtle berries, Mirto is a traditional digestivo unique to Sardinia and Corsica. It comes in red (rosso) and white (bianco) versions.
Sardinia is known for its high-quality red coral, often crafted into delicate earrings, necklaces, and pendants. Prices vary greatly by size and complexity.
Alghero
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Apr 5 – 6
May 1 – 4
The world's longest religious procession: a four-day, 70km round trip carrying Saint Efisio's statue from Cagliari to Nora, unbroken for over 360 years.
Aug 14
Teams carry towering wooden 'candles' through Sassari on the eve of the Assumption, a UNESCO-listed tradition dating to the Middle Ages.
Aug 15
Dec 25 – 26
Costs
Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 7 days
USD 1,882Flights from your city not included.
| City | Simple | Comfortable | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cagliari | USD 60 | USD 100 | USD 140 |
| Alghero | USD 60 | USD 100 | USD 140 |
Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.
Sardinia is moderately priced overall; expect to pay $90-140/night for mid-range hotels and $18-30 for a sit-down lunch. Tap water is safe to drink everywhere, but be mindful of hilly terrain in Cagliari and watch for poor road conditions outside major towns, especially at night in Olbia.
For local transport within cities like Cagliari and Alghero, utilize bus day passes which typically cost around EUR4-5 per person, significantly cheaper than frequent taxi rides. Inter-city travel between Cagliari, Sassari (for Alghero), and Olbia is best done by regional trains or buses for cost efficiency.
In Alghero, famous for its fresh seafood, plan one splurge meal to experience the local culinary excellence. A high-quality seafood dinner for two at a renowned restaurant might cost EUR80-120, a memorable highlight of your trip.
Look for local eateries offering 'menu fisso' (fixed-price menu) for lunch or dinner, which typically include 2-3 courses for EUR15-25. This is an excellent way to enjoy authentic local cuisine at a better value than a la carte options.
Before you go
Hotel in Cagliari
Nights 1–3 · Castello · about USD 300 · Comfortable hotel range
Hotel in Alghero
Nights 4–6 · Alghero Old Town · about USD 300 · Comfortable hotel range
Kayak Tour at Poetto Beach
Day 2 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Guided kayak tours can fill up, especially for specific time slots. Contact local tour operators.
Su Nuraxi di Barumini Guided Tour
Day 3 · Book 2 weeks ahead · While general entry might not need booking, a guided tour, especially in English, should be booked in advance via coopbarumini.it.
SUP Experience at Calamosca
Day 3 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Stand-up paddleboarding experiences require booking with a local provider to secure equipment and instructor availability.
Boat Trip to Grotta di Nettuno
Day 5 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Boat tours to Neptune's Grotto are popular and can sell out, particularly during peak tourist season. Reserve with one of the operators from Alghero port.
Boat Trip to La Maddalena Archipelago
Day 7 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Full-day boat tours exploring La Maddalena Archipelago are very popular and book up quickly. Secure your spot and preferred boat type in advance.
National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari Entry
Day 2 · Book 7 days ahead · Check official museum website for advance tickets, especially if traveling during peak season.
In Cagliari, the steep inclines of the Castello district mean you should wear sturdy walking shoes; the city buses are efficient for reaching the higher viewpoints.
When visiting the Civic Market of San Benedetto in Cagliari, arrive early in the morning to see the freshest seafood and local produce before the stalls begin to close.
The CTM Card for Cagliari transit is best purchased at central tobacco shops or kiosks near the main station before you begin your first day of travel.
In Alghero, the narrow old town streets are best explored on foot; note that the buses serving the nearby beaches have specific schedules that vary on Sundays.
Near the Cagliari bus terminal, be mindful of your belongings as this area is a known hub where crowds gather and pickpockets occasionally operate.
When visiting the beaches like Spiaggia di Calamosca or Spiaggia delle Bombarde, remember to bring your own shade as umbrellas are limited and rental equipment is not always available.
On the La Maddalena boat tour from Olbia, you will likely spend significant time on open water, so using sunscreen and having an offline map of the islands is advised before departure.
For dinner in Alghero, use the local reservation app to book tables at restaurants serving Catalan-influenced seafood, as popular venues in the old town fill up quickly on weekend evenings.
Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet
Get EUR cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for Italy
Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)
Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees
Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home
Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)
Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)
Wallet with ID and payment cards
Pen for arrival forms
The trip begins in Cagliari, anchoring the first three nights to explore the island's capital and ancient Nuragic history. This front-loads deeper cultural dives while you are fresh, settling into the island rhythm. Moving north, the mid-trip transfer to Alghero places its caves and historic walled city as a distinct second act.
The final two nights in Olbia position you perfectly for departure from the northeast, allowing for a last taste of the Costa Smeralda's famed coastline. This itinerary prioritizes the diverse coastal landscapes and rich ancient history of Sardinia's southern, western and northeastern regions. It does not include the mountainous interior, which holds traditional villages and trekking opportunities around the Gennargentu massif.
You also miss the Bronze Age Giants' Tombs near Arzachena or the more remote, beaches of the Sinis Peninsula on the western coast. This shape is right if you came for island history and seascapes; it is less suited if extensive hiking in rugged mountains is your primary goal. To extend your trip by two days, add them to the central Barbagia region.
Base yourself in Orgosolo to experience its unique mural art and a traditional shepherd's lunch in the mountains, offering a glimpse into Sardinian pastoral life away from the coast.
| Visa & entry | US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens can enter Italy visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. Other nationalities should check the official Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for specific visa requirements. |
|---|---|
| US risk level | Exercise increased cautionUpdated Sep 9, 2026 |
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 112 · Ambulance 118 · Fire 115112 for all emergencies; 113 also reaches the state police |
Violent crime is rare, but pickpocketing is common on crowded public transport like the Rome Metro Line A or near major hubs like Milano Centrale. Keep bags in front of you and be wary of anyone pushing or creating a distraction in train stations. If you have an emergency, go to the nearest Carabinieri station or call 112.
| Tipping: restaurants | Coperto (cover charge) is standard; rounding up is appreciated |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | Round up to nearest euro |
| Tipping: hotels | €1–2 per bag |
| Cards | Accepted at most restaurants and shops |
| Contactless | Growing rapidly |
| Cash | Cash useful at trattorias and small shops |
| Payment tip | Legally, all businesses must accept cards. Still carry some cash for gelaterias and market stalls. |
| Plugs | Type C, F, L230V · 50Hz |
|---|
| SIM | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Airalo eSIM | $5 to $30 for 7-30 days | Online prior to departure |
| Vodafone Italy physical SIM | $25 to $40 per month | Vodafone retail stores nationwide |
| TIM physical SIM | $20 to $35 per month | TIM stores or newsstands in city centers |
Always carry your physical passport when purchasing a local SIM card, as Italian law requires official identification for activation.
At any church or basilica, cover your shoulders and knees to avoid being turned away at the door. Do not order a cappuccino after 11am; it is seen as a morning drink, so stick to espresso or caffe macchiato. Tipping is not expected at restaurants, and small change is sufficient if you choose to leave anything at all.
About USD 1,882 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 7 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.
Travelers from the US, UK, Australia, and many other nations can enter Italy for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism. Citizens of EU member states have freedom of movement. Always verify your specific requirements against the latest Italian entry regulations before you book.
Cagliari is generally safe day and night, though you should exercise common sense near the main bus and train stations where homeless people may linger. In Olbia, avoid walking alone late at night to minimize risks from erratic drivers or isolated encounters. Stick to well-lit areas and busy streets when moving after dark.
Italy uses the Euro. While major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, keep cash on hand for small cafes, kiosks, and local markets. Contactless payment is widely available, but having small change for public facilities or buses is useful.
Tipping is not mandatory or expected in Italy as it is in the US. You might leave a few coins if you receive exceptional service, but prices on the menu are final. Service charges are often included in your bill as a coperto.
Bring comfortable walking shoes with good grip. The historic centers of cities like Cagliari are quite hilly with steep streets. Lightweight clothing works for most months, but carry a light jacket for breezy evenings by the sea.
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for walking and exploring cities. Summer is hot and popular, making it perfect for beach trips, but inland sightseeing can be exhausting in the midday sun. Avoid July and August if you prefer fewer crowds and lower temperatures.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is located at the south edge of Olbia, while Alghero-Fertilia Airport is 10 kilometers northwest of Alghero. Use local airport bus services or official taxis for the quickest transfer. Schedules and fares for regional buses are typically posted at designated stops outside the arrivals area.
Regional buses operated by ARST and Turmo Travel are the primary way to connect these cities. Trains also link major hubs, though stations may be a short walk from city centers. Check local bus schedules online or at the station before planning your transit day.
Download this Cagliari, Alghero, and Olbia, Italy itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
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