Explore Sardinia on a Budget

Embarking on a trip to Sardinia doesn’t have to break the bank. This Mediterranean island off Italy’s western coast is famously home to the glamorous Costa Smeralda – a favorite destination among high-profile individuals. However, assuming that splurging on an opulent holiday is the only way to experience Sardinia would be a mistake.

Don’t be fooled by the extravagant image: luxury living is far from the norm here, and there is much to discover beyond the lavish resorts. Better yet, it can all be enjoyed on a budget. While Sardinia’s popularity has risen along with prices in recent years, touring the island can still be affordable with proper planning. Here’s how to explore Sardinia without emptying your wallet.

Daily Cost Estimates

Hostel room: €15–25
Basic room for two: €50–80
Agriturismo (farm stay): €70–110
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €80–120
Bike rental: €10–25
Espresso coffee: €1.20
Pizza: €6–9
Dinner for two: €60
Beer at the bar: €5
Average daily cost: €130–180

Timing Your Visit

Traveling outside the peak tourist season is the easiest way to save money, especially in Sardinia, where prices skyrocket during July and August. Most locals take their holidays during this period, causing accommodation, car rentals, and ferry transport to double in price. Therefore, planning your visit before or after these months is a sure way to cut costs and avoid crowded beaches.

Fortunately, Sardinia’s weather remains pleasant for most of the year, allowing for ocean dips as early as May and as late as October.

Consider Alternative Airports

Sardinia’s main entry point is Cagliari, which has daily flights to major Italian cities. However, looking for flights to the island’s other airports, Alghero and Olbia, often uncovers better deals. Airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer frequent connections to these airports, with prices dipping below €30 for one-way flights when booked in advance.

Woman on ferry boat trip to their summer vacations island destination in Sardinia — The ferry is another lower-cost option for getting to Sardinia © Matej Kastelic / Shutterstock

Ferry Travel as an Alternative

Traveling by ferry can be an enjoyable experience. Slow travelers may appreciate crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea on a ship, which takes about 13 hours from several Italian ports. Tickets for passengers outside of the peak season can cost between €20 and €30. However, it’s essential to plan ahead, as ferry prices increase during the summer months.

Renting a Car

To explore Sardinia’s stunning landscapes, archaeological sites, and remote beaches, renting a car is ideal. While rental costs can vary, expect to pay about €40 per day in the low season, but prices can increase significantly during the summer, sometimes exceeding €100 per day. Therefore, booking your rental ahead of time is critical to ensuring availability, especially in the busy summer months.

Embrace Cycling

Cycling is a popular way to explore Sardinia’s remote areas and is becoming increasingly favored by tourists. Numerous cycling paths have been developed, making it feasible to encircle the island along its coastline. Bike rentals typically range between €10 and €40 for e-bikes, making this a budget-friendly option for exploring the beautiful landscapes.

Clear turquoise water of Cala Corsara bay in Sardinia — Some secluded coves like Cala Corsara are only accessible by boat © naumoid / Getty Images

Accessing Free Beaches

While many parts of Italy require beachgoers to pay for chairs and umbrellas, Sardinia is known for its free-access beaches. Most areas allow you to sunbathe without charge, though in popular spots, there may be full-service beach clubs. However, a short walk from these crowded locations will likely lead you to untouched stretches of sand.

Campsites and Regulations

Although the picturesque landscapes of Sardinia may entice visitors to wild camp, it is important to note that free camping is illegal on the island. Violators face hefty fines. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek out established campgrounds equipped for tents and RVs.

Dining and Savings

In touristy areas, restaurants often charge inflated prices. To avoid overspending, look for fixed-price lunch deals, known as menu del giorno, which typically offer two courses for around €15. Additionally, seeking out the house wine can provide a budget-friendly way to enjoy local flavors with your meal.

Rural cottages in far west Sardinia with an olive tree — Farm stays vary from basic to luxurious in Sardinia with prices to match © kerale / Shutterstock

Accommodation Options

While hostel availability is limited in Sardinia, there are plenty of B&Bs and agriturismi (farm stays) to choose from. Prices can vary widely, providing options from basic to luxurious accommodations while allowing you to enjoy the local countryside and cuisine. Consequently, look for deals outside the peak tourist season for the best value.

Purchase Traditional Foods Directly

If you’re interested in bringing home some authentic Sardinian products like pecorino cheese, seek out farms that sell directly to customers. Purchasing items such as sheep cheese, olive oil, and wine straight from producers can save you money while ensuring freshness and quality.