Sardinia in 7 Days: Which Coastal Route Is Right for You?

Sardinia is larger and more surprising than most people expect. Think turquoise seas, rugged cliffs, white sand dunes, ancient ruins, flamingos, and fjord-like coves. This Italian Mediterranean gem has many faces.

But if you only have one week to explore Sardinia, one big question arises: Which coast should you choose?

Find Your Perfect 7-Day Route

Here’s a quick overview of what each coast has to offer:

Route	Best for	Starting Point	Highlights
North Coast	Beaches & Stylish Resorts	Olbia	Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena, Capo Testa
West Coast	Nature, Culture & Secluded Spots	Alghero	Alghero, Bosa, Sinis, Piscinas
South Coast	Sunshine, Food & History	Cagliari	Nora, Flamingos, Costa Rei
East Coast	Adventure & Dramatic Landscapes	Olbia	Orosei, Gola Gorropu, Costa di Baunei

The 4 Best Sardinian Coastal Routes for a 7-Day Trip

1. Northern Route – Postcard Views & Mediterranean Chic

Sardinia’s north coast is a blend of elegance and nature – perfect if you’re looking to switch between boutique shopping, crystal-clear beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Start your journey in Olbia and head straight to the legendary Costa Smeralda, with glamorous towns like Porto Cervo and San Pantaleo. A boat tour to the La Maddalena Archipelago is a must-do.

Continue to Santa Teresa Gallura, then follow the wild Costa Paradiso down to the charming medieval town of Castelsardo. Your grand finale? The dazzling La Pelosa Beach near Stintino, considered one of the island’s most beautiful.

👉 Full Northern Route Guide

2. Western Route – Raw Beauty, Culture & Coastal Charm

The west coast is made for travelers seeking authenticity and natural beauty.

Begin in Alghero, a colorful town with Catalan roots, then head to the cliffs of Capo Caccia and along the stunning coastal road to Bosa – one of Sardinia’s prettiest villages.

Further south lies the Sinis Peninsula, home to quartz beaches, the ancient ruins of Tharros, and flocks of flamingos in the Cabras lagoons. The journey ends at the Costa Verde, where rolling dunes, abandoned mines, and windswept beaches reveal Sardinia’s untamed side.

👉 Full Western Route Guide

3. Southern Route – Sunshine, History & Laid-Back Vibes

If you’re drawn to sun, sea, and culture, the south coast is your sweet spot.

Start in Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital – rich in history and charm, with lively markets, lagoons, and nearby beaches. From there, venture west to the island of San Pietro and its fishing village Carloforte, then swing back east past Capo Spartivento, known for its breathtaking sunsets and archaeological site Nora.

The beaches in this region – from Mari Pintau to the sweeping shores of Costa Rei – are among Sardinia’s finest. Ideal for relaxing, swimming, or a leisurely coastal boat trip.

👉 Full Southern Route Guide

4. Eastern Route – Cliffs, Canyons & Hidden Coves

Sardinia’s east coast is wild, scenic, and full of surprises – perfect for hikers, adventurers, and nature lovers.

Begin in Olbia and drive down the Costa Orientale, with its long sandy beaches and towns like Posada. Then head into the island’s most dramatic section: the Costa di Baunei, famous for fjord-like coves, secluded beaches, and the awe-inspiring Gola Gorropu canyon – one of Europe’s deepest.

Up for a hike? Don’t miss the Golgo Plateau trails. Toward the south, the route softens with laid-back beach spots like Lido di Orrì, Cea, and Murtas – perfect for unwinding after your adventures.

👉 Full Eastern Route Guide

Which Route Is Right for You? Here’s How to Decide:

Some helpful tips to guide your choice:

Best Travel Times:
- South Coast: Spring & autumn (mild weather, fewer crowds)
- East Coast: Best in summer – some coves are only accessible by boat or 4×4
- West Coast: Great year-round, though wilder in winter
- North Coast: Ideal in early or late summer – quieter than peak season
Airports:
- Olbia: Best for North & East Coast
- Alghero: Perfect for the West Coast
- Cagliari: Ideal for the South
Travel Style:
- Adventure & Nature? → Go East
- Culture & Scenery? → Head West
- Relaxation & Sunshine? → Choose South
- Style & Beaches? → North it is!

Our conclusion: Sardinia isn’t a place to rush. With just seven days, it’s best to focus on one region and experience it fully. Each coast has its own magic, and no matter which you choose, Sardinia will steal your heart. And trust us – Once you’ve been, you’ll want to come back again and again.

Additional reading suggestions for you:

Sardinia in 14 Days – The Ultimate Road Trip Starting in Olbia

Northern Sardinia: From Costa Smeralda to Costa Paradiso

Sardinia’s Wild West Coast: Highlights from Alghero to Costa Iglesiente