A gorgeous Italian island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia has long been a popular destination for beachgoers and culture buffs. Framed by craggy cliffs, golden sands and glittering waters, the island also boasts mountains and forests, perfect for keen adventurers to explore on foot or by bicycle, as well as beautiful vineyard-clad hills. Cagliari, the capital, is a medieval hub with a lively atmosphere, whilst the coastline is dotted with buzzy beach towns and quiet coves. There’s a strong focus on seasonal cuisine, wine and artisanal crafts, too, making Sardinia a sure-fire hit with foodies and creatives. Whether you’re dreaming of a fun-filled family holiday, a romantic escape or a relaxed holiday with friends, our pick of boutique hotels in Sardinia promises something special for everyone.
Cagliari Show the map
15 rooms 
Baja Sardinia Show the map
33 rooms 
Olbia Show the map
55 rooms 
Porto Cervo Show the map
19 rooms 
Santa Maria Navarrese Show the map
12 rooms 
Porto Cervo Show the map
20 rooms 
Golfo Aranci Show the map
63 rooms 
Alghero Show the map
21 rooms 
Chia Show the map
6 rooms 
Porto Cervo Show the map
121 rooms 
Baja Sardinia Show the map
68 rooms 
Porto Cervo Show the map
119 rooms 
Santa Maria Navarrese Show the map
28 rooms 
San Pantaleo Show the map
23 rooms 
Cagliari Show the map
9 rooms 
Santa Teresa Gallura Show the map
45 rooms 
Cannigione Show the map
19 rooms 
Golfo Aranci Show the map
5 rooms 
Porto Cervo Show the map
100 rooms 
Porto Cervo Show the map
76 rooms 
Cagliari Show the map
7 rooms 
Cagliari Show the map
84 rooms 
Cagliari Show the map
11 rooms 
Cagliari Show the map
6 rooms 
Cagliari Show the map
3 rooms The second-largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia has a population of 1.5 million. Once home to the indigenous Nuragic people, the island was later conquered by Carthage and Rome, and ruled in turn by the Vandals, Byzantines, Crown of Aragon, and House of Savoy, before eventually becoming part of modern-day Italy. This fascinating fusion continues to be felt through the island’s rich culture and language, its ancient ruins, including the UNESCO-listed Su Nuraxi, and its culinary traditions.
Begin your explorations in Cagliari, admiring the impressive Cagliari Cathedral, the Bastion Saint Remy, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Bonaria, before wandering through the old town. Views from the Sella del Diavolo and the Torre dell’Elefante are wonderful. Sassari, the island’s second-largest city, boasts lovely churches and the acclaimed Museo Sanna, whilst smaller Nuoro has a highly regarded ethnographic museum.
Charming towns abound: Bosa, in the shadow of Malaspina Castle, and hilltop Castelsardo, are two favourites. Venture to the wine region for vineyard tours and tastings, spot tiny wild horses on the Giara Plateau, or watch birds in the Molentargius Nature Reserve.
Beach lovers will find a plethora of spectacular spots to soak up the sunshine. Snorkel, build sandcastles, or feast on seafood at family-run restaurants after long strolls along the sand. If you’re hoping to sail, the Maddalena Archipelago, San Pietro and Sant’Antioco Island are fabulous, as is the less-explored Baunei Coast.
There’s clearly no shortage of things to see and do in Sardinia!
Sardinia’s size makes it well worth thinking carefully about where to stay. History buffs will love Cagliari’s striking landmarks, whilst families can unwind on the tranquil Costa Rei, with its big beaches and chic resorts. Head north to the upmarket Costa Smeralda for buzzy beach clubs on sandy stretches, turquoise coves, superb hotels and excellent restaurants. Of the area’s towns, Porto Cervo has a particularly appealing evening atmosphere, whilst Cala di Volpe is brilliant for beach-hopping. Day trips to La Maddalena Islands from Palau come highly recommended.
Western Sardinia, too, has lively port towns, with some of the top boutique hotels in Sardinia set in Alghero and Bosa. Nearby highlights include La Perosa beach (picturesque but busy in peak season) and the Regional Natural Park of Porto Conte.
For dramatic scenery, look to the rugged Baunei Coast and Golf di Orosei. A wild, relatively untouched part of Sardinia, this stretch is ideal for keen hikers, who can wander to pretty coves, or those dreaming of brilliant days out by boat. Cala Gonone is a great starting point, and Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu and Cala Sinsine are lovely. Inland, the laid-back villages of Dorgali and Oliena are sure to charm.
Sardinia’s boutique hotels are dotted around the island. Smaller properties sit within heritage buildings in towns and cities, like Cagliari, Sassari and Nuoro, or in the tranquil villages hidden in the hills. Some of these remain family-run, and many have a quiet, intimate feel. Most will feature restaurants with a focus on Sardinian cuisine; this is a great way to experience the island’s unique culinary traditions.
You’ll find larger resorts along big sandy beaches, especially in the Costa Smeralda and Costa Rei. These tend to be cool and contemporary in style, with facilities including swimming pools, spas, tennis courts and water sports. Many have kids clubs and multi-bedroom suites or villas for groups travelling together.
Some of Sardinia’s vineyards offer attractive guest rooms, too. These will delight well-heeled foodies!
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