Exploring Sardinia: Transportation Options

Despite being the Mediterranean’s second largest island, Sardinia is relatively compact, measuring roughly 300km (186mi) north-to-south and 125km (78mi) east-to-west. You can cross the entire island in a few hours; however, sinuous two-lane roads and limited rail and bus connections can make short distances more time-consuming to cover than you might expect. Traveling with your own car, motorbike, or bicycle makes it much easier to explore Sardinia’s beaches, archaeological sites, and other destinations not well served by public transport.

Sardinia is Easiest to Explore with Your Own Vehicle

Vehicle Rentals

iBestTravel offers tips on renting vehicles from international operators like Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, and Avis at Sardinia’s three main airports in Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero. Additionally, smaller cities, including Nuoro and Oristano, provide in-town car hire, while motorbike and scooter rentals are readily available in many beach resorts. Note that electric cars can be rented, but charging stations are few and often slow.

Rental Car Tips:

• Check your credit card for complimentary Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) protection, as Italy is often excluded from coverage.
• Beware of narrow one-way streets in smaller villages to avoid scratches or getting stuck.
• Gas stations can be sparse in the mountains; therefore, make sure to fuel up ahead of time.

Road Classifications

Sardinia features a few faster multi-lane highways, known as superstrade (SS for short). These include the SS131 connecting Cagliari, Oristano, Sassari, and Porto Torres. Superstrade are toll-free with speed limits up to 110km/h (68mph). Expect slower driving on two-lane provincial roads known as strade provinciali (SP), where speed limits vary from 50km/h (31mph) in towns to 90km/h (56mph) outside city limits. Be mindful that many smaller access roads to beaches and trailheads may be unpaved.

Parking

In cities, parking spaces designated with blue stripes require payment via street-side ticket machines or a phone app. Rates are highest (€1-2 per hour) during business hours. Free or reduced rates apply evenings and Sundays. White-striped spaces are free of charge.

Each Sardinian municipality has its own rules for beach parking, which can cost as much as €2 per hour. Private companies often manage fee collection, and hefty fines apply for parking outside designated areas.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore the Sardinian countryside, with rentals available in most larger towns and coastal resorts. Bikes can also be carried on Sardinian trains for a surcharge.

The Bus is Sardinia’s Most Versatile Public Transport Option

For exploring beyond the main cities, the bus is Sardinia’s most convenient public transport option. iBestTravel recommends utilizing the extensive, well-priced bus network operated by ARST, connecting key destinations around the island, many of which are not reachable by rail. In smaller towns, tickets can be purchased from local bars or tobacconists at bus stops marked with a “Fermata” signpost.

Railways are Limited in Sardinia but Useful for Travel between Main Cities

Trenitalia

Trenitalia, Italy’s national rail system, provides a core network of routes in Sardinia. Trains run from Cagliari to Iglesias, Carbonia, Olbia, and the Golfo Aranci ferry terminal. Departures are frequent, and prices are reasonable; even the longest journeys typically cost less than €20.

ARST Regional Trains

ARST operates a supplementary narrow-gauge rail network, connecting areas of the island not reached by Trenitalia. Notably, the trains linking Sassari to Alghero are particularly beneficial to visitors.

Sardinia’s Scenic Tourist Trains

Sardinia’s extensive tourist train network offers a compelling glimpse of the island’s backcountry. The Trenino Verde (Little Green Train) features five official routes and is an ideal choice for exploring scenic locations. Service is slow and seasonal, so checking the schedule in advance is advisable.

Ferries are Great for Exploring Sardinia’s Offshore Islands

Ferries provide easy access to Sardinia’s offshore islands, including notable national parks such as Asinara and Maddalena. Operators like Delcomar, Maddalena Lines, and Tavolara Traghetti e Gite offer these services.

Accessible Transportation in Sardinia

Sardinia has improved accessible transport significantly. Trenitalia provides accommodations for disabled passengers at several stations. Additionally, ARST’s new bus fleet includes features like electronic lifts and Braille signage, enhancing accessibility for all passengers.

For further assistance, local organizations also provide accessible transport options to beach resorts and destinations.