How to Get to Sardinia
A complete guide to reaching the island by ferry or plane, with practical tips to help you plan your trip.
Getting to Sardinia: Everything You Need to Know
Sardinia is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Mediterranean, famous for its crystal-clear sea, authentic villages, and unspoiled natural landscapes.
Many travelers wonder what the best way to reach the island is.
The good news is that Sardinia is easy to reach year-round, thanks to numerous sea and air connections with Italy and Europe.
You can arrive:
by ferry, ideal if you travel with a car, motorcycle, or camper
by plane, the fastest option
by combining a flight with a rental car
The best choice depends on the type of trip you are planning, the season, and how much time you have available.
Getting to Sardinia by Ferry
The ferry is one of the most popular ways to reach Sardinia, especially if you want to bring your own car or travel with greater flexibility.
Several major ferry companies connect the island daily with Italian and European ports.
Main ferry companies include:
- Moby Lines
- Tirrenia
- Grimaldi Lines
- Corsica Ferries
Main routes and duration
Livorno – Olbia (7–9 hours)
Civitavecchia – Olbia (6–8 hours)
Genoa – Porto Torres (10–12 hours)
Civitavecchia – Cagliari (12–13 hours)
During the trip you can choose between several accommodation options:
- deck passage
- reclining seat
- private cabin
Many companies also allow travel with pets, offering dedicated cabins or specific areas.
During the summer months, especially July and August, booking in advance is highly recommended.
Practical Tip
The ferry is the best option if:
✔ you want to bring your car
✔ you travel with pets
✔ you plan to explore villages and rural areas
✔ you want maximum freedom of movement
👉 Compare ferry schedules and prices
Main Ports of Sardinia
Port of Olbia
One of the busiest ports on the island and the main gateway to northeastern Sardinia. Best choice if you want to visit: Costa Smeralda, Nuoro, Barbagia, Gulf of Orosei. Average travel time to central Sardinia: about 1–1.5 hours by car.
Porto Torres
Located in the north-west of the island, mainly connected with Genoa and France. Ideal for visiting: Alghero, Bosa, Montiferru the western coast of Sardinia.
Port of Cagliari
The main port of southern Sardinia. Perfect for exploring: Cagliari, Chia, Villasimius, Sulcis Iglesiente.
Getting to Sardinia by Plane
If you want to reach the island quickly, flying is the fastest solution.
Sardinia has three international airports, connected with many Italian and European cities throughout the year.
Main Airports
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport
Ideal for visiting northeastern Sardinia and the central areas of the island.
Cagliari Elmas Airport
The largest airport in Sardinia, perfect for reaching the southern part of the island.
Alghero Fertilia Airport
A great option for exploring the north-western coast and the Coral Riviera.
Airlines operating include ITA Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, Volotea and Wizz Air.
Average flight times
Rome: 1 hour
Milan: 1h10
Central Europe: 1.5 – 2 hours
👉 Book your trip to Sardinia
Ferry or Plane: Which Is Better?
Ferry recommended if:
- you travel with a car or motorcycle
- you want more freedom of movement
- you travel with family
- you have a lot of luggage
Plane recommended if:
- you have only a few vacation days
- you want to arrive quickly
- you prefer renting a car in Sardinia
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to reach Sardinia?
It depends on the season. In low season flights can be cheaper, while in summer ferries are often more convenient for families and vehicles.
Can I bring my car to Sardinia?
Yes. All major ferry companies allow cars, motorcycles, and campers on board.
Can I travel with pets?
Yes. Many ferries offer pet-friendly cabins and dedicated areas.
Which airport is best for visiting central Sardinia?
Olbia Airport is the most convenient for reaching Nuoro and Barbagia.
How long does the ferry trip take?
Travel time depends on the route:
Livorno – Olbia: about 8 hours
Civitavecchia – Olbia: about 6 hours
Genoa – Porto Torres: about 10 hours
Plan Your Trip to Sardinia
Now that you know how to reach the island, you can start planning your journey in the most authentic part of Sardinia.
Discover:
- traditional villages
- agriturismi and rural accommodations
- nature experiences
- local traditions and gastronomy
Discover Sardinia Beyond the Beaches
Once you arrive on the island, we will guide you through authentic villages, pastoral traditions, and rural experiences far from mass tourism.
