A guide to things to do in Sardinia

A haven of calm and relaxation, cheap Sardinia holidays are ideal for couples and families wanting to take some much needed time out. That’s not to say that more adventurous types will be stuck for things to do however, as there are plenty of activities across the island that cater to every taste. From scuba diving excursions to exploring ancient ruins, here are our top picks of things to do on this beautiful island.

Beaches galore

Sardinia is no exception. Among the most beautiful beaches is Cala Mariolu, located on the eastern coast. The beach is only accessible by boat, but a visit here is highly recommended thanks to the ample scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Also worth a visit are the turquoise waters of Capo Caccia. Famous for its striking vertical cliffs, this secluded section of beach is home to a wide range of hidden caves and crevices that make exploring the area a unique experience.

Explore ancient monuments

Sardinia is home to plenty of historical treasures, including a cluster of prehistoric tombs and burial sites located just north of Olbia. The site is open year-round and is ideal for the whole family to explore, as kids are sure to love climbing the ruins and learning more about the region’s ancient past.

The area also boasts a fantastic selection of churches, some of which date back as far as the 11th century, including the impressive church of San Simplicio. It’s just a short walk from central Olbia and is the ideal place to visit when taking a break from the town’s ample shopping opportunities and restaurants.

Take in the local sights

Art galleries are the perfect way to add some culture to your Sardinia holidays, and this region is home to a vast selection. ArteSpazio is located in the northern region of Sassari and is one of the few galleries on the island to exhibit contemporary pieces alongside ancient artwork. A haven for art enthusiasts, this is a gallery that’s humble in size but more than makes up for it with the range of exhibitions on display.

The Cittadella dei Musei is a hub of artefacts, waxworks and gallery exhibitions that promises to keep the whole family entertained for hours. You can also find fascinating anatomical specimens that date back as far as the 19th century and are sure to draw a few gasps from the audience.

Experience a range of watersports

Thanks to its world famous beaches, Sardinia is a hotspot for watersports’ enthusiasts who travel from all over the world to experience the area’s warm, blue waters and pebbled coastline. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s certain to be a sport for you here.

Activities range from canoe and pedalo trips to opportunities to yacht out on the open waters. If you’re a windsurfer at heart, be sure to head to the stunning bay of Porto Pollo on the north coast. Here you’ll find a host of quality tuition centres that cater to novices and enthusiasts alike.

Visit the Museo Archeologico

Olbia’s famous archaeological museum is one of Sardinia’s highlights. Discover more about the region’s Greek heritage, alongside its colourful background within the maritime industry. Many of the exhibits here are more than 2,000 years old, including remnants of ancient shipwrecks found around the area.

Concerts are commonly played here during the summer months, when the museum is open late into the evening, and retain a chilled party vibe.