Where To Stay In North Sardinia

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The Best Places to Stay in North Sardinia

Wondering where to stay in North Sardinia?

I’ve spent the past decade exploring the region, and despite the stereotype, there’s far more to enjoy in North Sardinia than the tired cliché of beach clubs and billionaires.

Make no mistake, North Sardinia has a glossy side — you can see this from the yacht-filled marinas of Porto Cervo, the result of Prince Aga Khan’s luxury tourism transformation of the Costa Smeralda coastline in the 1960s. However, here you’ll also find some of the island’s best beaches and genuine local towns with Sardinian character, which is why millions of tourists’ flock here each year.

Overall, if you appreciate a luxurious holiday but don’t want to feel trapped in a tourist bubble, there’s still magic to be found in the North.

Map of Areas to Stay in North Sardinia

1. Where to Stay in Costa Smeralda

Overview: Costa Smeralda translates to the “emerald coast” due to the stunning turquoise waters surrounding it. The area was entirely transformed in the 1960s – a 24 year old prince Aga Khan IV, was flying over Sardinia by private jet and by chance, saw from the window a wild and rugged stretch of land and immediately fell in love with it.

This resulted in huge investment in the area, transforming Costa Smerelda into a glamorous tourist destination often visited by celebrities ranging from Jay Z to Princess Diana. Sardinia’s Emerald Coast has become an internationally recognised hotspot full of luxury hotels, resorts, and if you’re lucky, even a space to park your yacht…

As you would expect, the services here are top notch, in Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo in particular, you’ll find Michelin star restaurants, wine bars and perhaps the most premium hotels on the island.

Why stay here: You’re looking for a memorable, luxurious stay in beautiful natural surroundings with everything taken care of. A holiday in Costa Smerelda is ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries and celebrating special occasions. Nearby, you’ll find the stunning beaches of Capriccioli (a personal favourite) and Spiaggia del Principe (Prince’s Beach).

Where to stay: With a sister property in Ibiza, 7Pines has mastered the art of luxury without old-world stuffiness.  Stay at 7Pines Resort Sardinia for a dose of contemporary, laid-back comfort. Enjoy top-notch dining, 4 secluded beaches, a chic beach club, and a spa to truly switch off.

For something equally as luxurious, Hotel Pitrizza offers just 66 rooms, some with private pools and uninterrupted sea views — ideal for special occasions.

Hotel Cala di Volpe, a well-known favourite since the 1960s, brings more old-school glamour, with its Olympic-sized saltwater pool and private beach.

If you are craving something a little more understated, try the elegance of Hotel Luci di la Muntagna, tucked away mountainside overlooking the marina, with serene views.

2. Where to Stay in La Maddalena

Overview: The Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena, established in 1996, is a cluster of seven islands and dozens of smaller isolotti off the northeast coast of Sardinia. The whole area is an island-hopper’s dream, and can be reached via a ferry from Palau.

Why stay here: La Maddalena is perfect if you love to explore. Here you can hop onto one of many boat tours to search out some of Sardinia’s best beaches, like Spargi, Budelli, and Caprera. We recommend staying in a hotel on the archipelago itself to enjoy the unexpectedly lively La Maddalena town, which has a more authentic, local vibe than Costa Smeralda. You’ll also find more mid-range trattorias here, with reasonable pricing.

Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma is a luxurious adult-only escape on La Maddalena, perfect for a well-earned escape. The rooms are elegantly designed – many with stunning sea views over the Tyrrhenian Sea with the island of Santa Stefano in the distance. Make the most of the serene spa with sauna, steam room, indoor and a particularly striking outdoor pool surrounded by granite rocks. The resort can also arrange private yacht tours, e-bike excursions and boat trips around the archipelago.

3. Where to Stay in Costa Paradiso

Overview: Costa Paradiso is a rugged, low-key, sleepy region on the Northern coastline. But for many, this is the appeal. Costa Paradiso is a quiet place to escape, rest and restore. As it’s tucked away, you’ll need a hire car to get here, and you should expect limited nightlife and tourist services.

Why Stay: For those who want a break from city life and to escape somewhere understated and chilled. You appreciate luxury, but you don’t want over-the-top glitz. Relax in a peaceful setting, with easy access to La Maddalena, the town of Santa Teresa Gallura and stunning beaches: Li Cossi and La Marinedda.

Where to Stay: Hotel Costa Paradiso is our recommended choice for couples or individual travellers. This charming boutique-style hotel has sea-view suites, an infinity pool overlooking the sea, and an excellent on-site restaurant serving Sardinian and Mediterranean cuisine.

4. Where to Stay in Santa Teresa di Gallura

Overview: A peaceful town turning livelier during the tourist months, with a laid-back aperitivo culture and pretty marina offering boat trips to the nearby island of La Maddalena. Santa Teresa Gallura is close to the action but away from the busier tourist spots.

Why stay: Less busy than its nearby siblings in Costa Smeralda, this town has a relaxed and bohemian vibe – in fact, many locals associate the area with the nearby Valle della Luna commune, which since the 60s, has been home to a small community of hippies and naturists. Rena Bianca Beach is within walking distance, and the area is generally more affordable. You should expect more traditional trattorias and family-run restaurants rather than Michelin-starred.

Where to stay: You can’t go wrong with the newly renovated 5-star Mangia’s Santa Teresa Sardinia, Curio Collection by Hilton. Overlooking the soft sands of Rena di Ponente beach on the Capo Testa peninsula, this stylish resort offers sleek rooms with sea-view terraces, a chic infinity pool. There’s also a spa, yoga, and a polished yet relaxed atmosphere.

5. Where to Stay in Alghero

Overview: Alghero was conquered by the ancient Spanish in the 1300s, resulting in a city that now blends Catalan charm with Sardinian beauty. Expect a lively, but not touristy town, with cobbled streets of the Centro Storico, coastal charm and seafood dinners. Nearby, you can explore Neptune’s Grotto, visit the ancient Nuraghe Palmavera, or take a scenic drive to the colourful town of Bosa. Beaches like Maria Pia and Le Bombarde are close.

Why Stay: Alghero is compact, refined, with enough history, food (I have very happy memories of enjoying a delicious focaccia at Bar Focacceria Milese), and coastal beauty to feel like a proper local town, not just a beach resort. With Alghero airport nearby, it’s also an option for travellers without a car, and in my opinion, a better choice than staying in the other Northern airport city of Olbia, which has less character.

Where to Stay: For beach lovers we recommend Hotel Dei Pini, which features direct access to a private sandy beach with complimentary loungers and panoramic sea-view pool.  You can also gorge on delicious Sardinian cuisine, enjoy water sports, and make use of their seasonal shuttle and nearby bus stop – which is especially useful for those without a hire car.

Another option closer to the action is Smy Carlos V Wellness & Spa, which is walking distance to Alghero’s lively centre. There’s no private beach here, but they do have a lovely saltwater pool, rooftop restaurant with sea views, a full-service spa, and modern rooms with balconies.

6. Where to Stay in Stintino

Overview: You’ll find beautiful Stintino on the far northwestern tip of Sardinia, occupying a large windswept peninsula that juts into the Mediterranean Sea. It was once a humble fishing village and is home to one of Sardinia’s most famous beaches La Pelosa (meaning the “hairy” due to the fluffy sea grass surrounding it). Beyond the beach is Asinara National Park an ex-prison island and now home to famous albino donkeys and untouched coves.

Why Stay: Perfect for beach lovers, families and couples who want to experience one of Sardinia’s most impressive and well-known beaches. A boat trip to nearby Asinara Island is a must, and Stintino also makes a great base for exploring the nearby towns of Alghero and Castelsardo.

Where to Stay: Club Esse Sporting is perfect for couples and families seeking a resort nearby to La Pelosa Beach. Surrounded by Mediterranean greenery, this 4-star resort features a private beach and free shuttle, as well as an outdoor pool, and a range of sports facilities from tennis to beach volleyball.

If you’re adamant to stay within walking distance of La Pelosa, Residence Hotel La Pelosetta is a good option. It’s a budget accommodation located directly on the seafront in Stintino and provides truly stunning views of La Pelosa Beach, Asinara Island, and the historic Aragonese Tower. One drawback? While ceiling fans are available, there is no air conditioning, which could be uncomfortable if you are visiting in the middle of summer.

A third option is the charming (and budget friendly) Hotel Cala Reale. Just 10 minutes drive from La Pelosa, Cala Reale offers simple but comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, childrens playground and a generous breakfast.

7. Where to stay in Castlesardo

Overview: You’ll be impressed with the view as soon as you see Castlesardo from the winding road approaching the town. Rows of colourful houses hang dramatically on the cliff above the gulf of Asinara, which will likely have you stopping for a photograph by the side of the road. This is one of Sardinia’s most beautiful medieval towns and is ideal for curious history and culture lovers.

Why Stay:You’re seeking charm, authenticity, and sea views. Experience the romantic medieval streets, artisan shops, and sea-view dinners (without the crowds). Castelsardo offers boutique stays in centuries-old buildings and a slice of Sardinian history.

Where to stay: Bajaloglia Resort offers a boutique and stylish escape. The rooms are modern, with a private terrace, some with whirlpool tubs and sunset views. Start your day with breakfast overlooking the Gulf of Asinara, followed by a dip in the infinity pool, and end with gourmet Sardinian dining at L’Incantu. Perfect for a romantic, slow-paced stay far from the crowds.

8. Where to stay in San Teodoro

Overview: San Teodoro is located just south of Olbia along Sardinia’s north-east coast, and has a relaxed and youthful feel—more lively than most Sardinian towns, but not quite Ibiza-like. Enjoy your daytime hours at San Teodoro’s picturesque beaches, including the big hitters: La Cinta, Cala Brandinchi and Lu Impostu where miles and miles of soft sand and bright blue water await you. In the evening, San Teodoro comes alive with street stalls, live music, and the occasional beachside DJ sessions.

Why Stay: Stay in San Teodoro if you’re looking for stunning beaches with a bit more nightlife than Sardinia’s quieter spots. It’s never flashy, but the coast itself is unforgettable—La Cinta, Cala Brandinchi, and Lu Impostu framed by Tavolara Island’s imposing backdrop, which rises directly out of the sea. For couples, enjoy lazy days beside the water, a social buzz in the evenings, and a solid base to discover the northeast in peace, away from Costa Smeralda’s weekend masses.

Where to Stay: Couples should stay at Baglioni Resort Sardinia, for sleek luxury in a tranquil setting just a stone’s throw from Lu Impostu beach and Tavolara Marine Reserve. Expect 78 sleek Med-inspired rooms, with private verandas and lots of space. Guests can enjoy the onsite Michelin-rated dining experience at Gusto by Sadler, plus a spa, outdoor pool, and water activities. Another plus: The resort is easily reachable, just 21.7 km from Olbia Airport.

If you are looking for comfort and affordability close to the best beaches, try Hotel San Teodoro. The hotel boasts contemporary, uncluttered rooms, a pool, and a generous breakfast buffet. There is a (paid) shuttle which provides easy access to the beach and town, and facilities such as a fitness center, lounge bar, and bike rentals.

Travel Tips for Northern Sardinia

Best Time to Visit North Sardinia

July–August is peak season and offers the most reliable weather, but is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. June and September offer a great balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

Getting Around North Sardinia

Car hire is strongly advised for North Sardinia (and Sardinia in general) in order to visit beaches and villages at your own pace. Roads in the North are in good condition, and a car allows you to see secret spots that are not visited by tours. If you’re traveling without a car to north Sardinia, it’s recommended to stay near the major airports in the North, like Alghero or around Olbia. If you do not have a car, book hotels and resorts which provide beach shuttle buses and airport pick-ups as part of their package.

Booking Tips

You should book well in advance for stays in July and August as many luxury resorts and family hotels sell out. Some high-end resorts offer package deals in shoulder season, which can be good value for luxury on a slightly smaller budget.

North Sardinia FAQs

North Sardinia vs. South Sardinia

If you’re looking for luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and an idyllic setting, the north, particularly the area around Costa Smeralda, is the perfect destination for honeymoons, anniversaries, or romantic getaways. You’ll discover secluded, smaller beaches lined with mountains and cliffs and it’s ideal for island-hopping off La Maddalena.

The south is more relaxed, with wider sandy beaches (many just as stunning as the North) and fewer tourists and more locals. It’s less mountainous and is overall a bit less expensive during peak season. Both are well worth a visit.

What are the best places to visit in North Sardinia?

Some of North Sardinia’s best sights are La Maddalena Archipelago (for island-hopping and beaches), Grotta di Neptuno (marine grotto near Alghero), Castelsardo (postcard-perfect medieval town), and Cape Testa (panoramic cape with rock formations and lighthouses). Costa Smeralda’s viewpoints and Stintino’s La Pelosa Beach, often rated among Italy’s best beaches, should also not be missed.

What are the best towns in North Sardinia?

Alghero, Santa Teresa Gallura, Castelsardo and San Teodoro are popular towns in North Sardinia for all tastes and budgets. For luxury travellers, Costa Smeralda’s Porto Cervo is a resort town for upmarket dining and high-end boutiques.

Where should I stay in North-East Sardinia?

It depends on availability and your budget. The North-East (the area around Olbia and Costa Smeralda) is ideal for beachgoers and luxury vacationers alike. Porto Cervo (Costa Smeralda) is the first choice for high-end vacations with luxury resorts and beach clubs in abundance. For something a bit lower-key, try Porto Rotondo (another upscale marina town) or San Teodoro for equal measures of nice beaches and nightlife.