1. Renting a Car – The Most Flexible Option
Why Rent a Car?
Sardinia is a large island with many remote areas, small villages, and hidden beaches that are not easily accessible by public transport. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, discover off-the-beaten-path spots, and travel between regions without worrying about schedules.

Types of Cars

Economy cars are perfect for solo travelers or couples.
SUVs are recommended for those exploring mountain roads and remote areas.
Vans or larger cars are ideal for families or groups.
Where to Rent a Car

Airports (Cagliari, Olbia, Alghero, and others) have a wide range of rental options.
Car rental offices in cities and towns across the island, especially in major tourist areas.
Driving in Sardinia

Road conditions are generally good, but be prepared for narrow and winding mountain roads.
Speed limits are clearly marked: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on highways.
Parking can be challenging in popular tourist areas and beaches. Try to park in designated zones or parking lots.
Pros:

Flexibility to explore remote locations.
Access to less touristy spots.
Comfortable for families or groups.
Cons:

Parking can be expensive and limited in major cities and tourist hotspots.
Gas prices are relatively high, and fuel stations may be sparse in remote areas.

2. Public Transport – Buses and Trains
Buses
Sardinia has an extensive bus network connecting towns, cities, and many tourist areas. While buses are cheap and eco-friendly, they may not run frequently, especially in rural regions.

ARST is the main bus company operating routes throughout Sardinia, including connections between major towns and cities.
Intercity buses are available for longer distances, such as from Cagliari to Alghero or from Olbia to Sassari.
Local buses are available within cities like Cagliari, Alghero, and Olbia.
Trains
Sardinia also has a limited train network, mostly connecting larger towns and cities along the coast. However, it doesn’t cover remote or inland areas well. The Trenitalia service operates routes from Cagliari to Oristano, Sassari, and other northern towns. The Ferrovie della Sardegna runs a smaller network connecting inland areas, including Nuoro and Macomer.

Pros:

More affordable than renting a car.
Eco-friendly.
Great for traveling between major cities and popular tourist areas.
Cons:

Limited coverage in rural and remote areas.
Infrequent schedules (especially in winter or off-season).
Long travel times compared to driving.

3. Ferries and Boats – Access to Islands and Coastal Areas
Sardinia is surrounded by beautiful coastal islands like the Maddalena Archipelago and Asinara, making ferries an important transport option.

Ferries to the Maddalena Islands
Regular ferry services operate from Palau to La Maddalena and Caprera.
There are also boat tours available for exploring secluded beaches and islands.
Asinara National Park
Ferries run from Stintino to Asinara Island, where you can visit the Asinara National Park for hiking and wildlife watching.
Private Boats and Rentals
For a more exclusive experience, consider renting a private boat for day trips or island hopping.
You can find boat rentals in Porto Cervo, Cagliari, and Alghero.
Pros:

Easy access to beautiful islands and protected areas.
Scenic views and great photo opportunities.
Cons:

Schedules can be limited in the off-season.
Costs can add up for private boat rentals.

4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxis
Taxis are available in most towns and cities, but they are usually more expensive than other transport options. In tourist areas, fixed rates are often applied for common routes (e.g., to or from the airport).

Ride-Sharing (e.g., Uber)
While ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available in Sardinia, local apps like ItTaxi or FreeNow can be used in some urban areas for convenience. However, coverage may be limited compared to other European cities.

Pros:

Convenient for short trips.
Can be useful when public transport is not available.
Cons:

Expensive, especially for long distances.
Limited availability in rural areas.

5. Bicycles and Scooters
For those who want a more active travel experience, renting a bike or scooter can be a fun way to explore Sardinia’s smaller towns and coastal routes. Many places offer bike rentals and guided tours for those who want to explore Sardinia in a more adventurous and eco-friendly way.

Cycling is especially popular around coastal areas like the Costa Smeralda and the Gulf of Orosei, where you can enjoy stunning landscapes.
Scooters are ideal for short trips and navigating through narrow streets.
Pros:

Eco-friendly and healthy.
Affordable and ideal for short distances.
Cons:

Not suitable for long distances or mountainous terrain.
Limited availability in some areas.