July in Sardinia: Everything to See & Do

Is July a good time to go to Sardinia?

Hi, I’m Huw, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably sitting in the UK right now, looking out at the rain, dreaming of warm sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and long summer days. Every year, I get asked:

• What’s Sardinia like in July?
• Is it too hot? Too busy?
• What can you do there?

Well, let me tell you July in Sardinia is magical, and it’s one of mine and my wife Alison’s favourite times to be on the island.

Best Places to visit in Sardinia in July

A Must-Do in Sardinia: Boat Trips Along the North east Coast

One experience you simply can’t miss in Sardinia is a boat trip along the stunning north east coast and out to the Maddalena Islands. There are several ways to do this, but a unique trip is hopping on a "spaghetti boat", a larger tour boat that serves a delicious plate of spaghetti for lunch while you cruise or anchor in a beautiful bay!

Departing from Santa Teresa at the northern tip of Sardinia and from various ports along to Baia Sardinia, these boats follow a set route, including stops at the breathtaking Maddalena Archipelago, famous for its crystal-clear electric turquoise waters and pristine beaches.

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins - they’re a common sight in these waters and add a magical touch to an already unforgettable day at sea!

Private Boat Tours: A Luxurious Way to Explore Sardinia’s Coast

For a more intimate and exclusive experience, why not charter a private boat for the day? Perfect for special occasions, these smaller vessels come with a skipper and host, ensuring a relaxed and unforgettable journey along Sardinia’s breathtaking coastline.

You can follow a similar itinerary to the larger tour boats but with the added luxury of a more personalised experience. Options include the elegant Pulcinella sailing ship or the stylish Riviera 4000 offshore boat, both offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for couples, families or groups of friends.

For an unforgettable day at sea, check out Poseidon Charter and set sail on your own private Sardinian adventure!

Explore Sardinia by Sea: Rent Your Own Gommone!

Feeling adventurous? Why not take to the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia in your very own R.I.B (Rigid Inflatable Boat) - or as the Italians call it, gommone. The best part? You don’t need a boating license or prior experience to rent one, as long as the engine is 40hp or less.

With easy, eyeball navigation, you can set off on your own mini adventure, discovering secluded coves and hidden beaches that can only be reached by boat. Rental prices typically start at around €200 per day (excluding fuel), making it an unforgettable and surprisingly accessible experience.

Pack a picnic, grab a bottle of local Vermentino wine, and spend the day exploring Sardinia’s stunning coastline at your own pace. There's no better way to soak in the island’s breathtaking beauty!

A Day Trip to Palau & La Maddalena: Your Ultimate Guide

If you’re exploring northern Sardinia, a trip to Palau and La Maddalena is an absolute must! Palau, the gateway to the La Maddalena Archipelago, is a charming coastal town, and the best day to visit is Friday—perfect for visiting the local morning market before setting off on your island adventure.

Getting to La Maddalena

From Palau, hop on the ferry to La Maddalena, with tickets available at the ticket office at the end of the port. Ferries run all day and evening, taking approximately 20 minutes, shuttling back and forth between the Palau and La Maddalena. Just remember: if you buy a return ticket, you’ll need to return on the same ferry line.

Exploring La Maddalena & Caprera

Taking your car is a great option, as it allows you to drive around La Maddalena and cross the scenic bridge to Caprera, home to the Garibaldi Museum - a fascinating stop for history lovers..

If you prefer a more active approach, skip the car and rent a bike or e-bike in La Maddalena. This is a fantastic way to explore the island at your own pace, stopping for a leisurely lunch at Snack Bar Trinitá in the north of the island before continuing your ride.

Before You Head Back…

Before catching the ferry back to Palau, take some time to wander along the port and the charming streets along Via XX Settembre - a perfect way to end your day with a little local shopping. Or savour an Aperol Spritz at the Old Cafè in the square in front of the port.

For more on La Maddalena, check out Sardegna Turismo and start planning your adventure!

A day trip to Cagliari

Cagliari, situated on the central south coast of the island, is Sardinia’s capital city and centre for commerce and industry. It is flanked by the beautiful Poetta Beach and bay, popular for international sailing events. The city is characterised by colourful medieval architecture, central Castello and atmospheric port. There are interesting streets lined with shops and restaurants, the National Archaeological Museum, art galleries and monuments tracing the island’s history.

Must-Do Experiences in Cagliari

Explore the Old Town & Castello - Take a guided walking tour through the city’s historic heart, where medieval walls, panoramic views, and hidden alleyways await.
Poetto Beach is the main beach of Cagliari and stretches for about 8 km, from Sella del Diavolo up to the coastline of Quartu Sant'Elena. and enjoy a drink or meal at one of  the beach cafes and restaurants.

San Benedetto Market – One of the largest indoor markets in Europe, this two-story wonder is a food lover’s paradise, overflowing with fresh seafood, local cheeses, and Sardinian delicacies - a true sight to behold!

For a sophisticated lunch near Cagliari, Lo Scoglio, looks towards Capoterra and the city of Cagliari - great for seafood and dining with the locals.

Cagliari has so much to offer for a day trip or for a city break.

Visit Alghero

Tucked away on the north west coast of Sardinia, Alghero is a captivating holiday destination that blends history, culture and stunning coastal beauty. Known as the Coral Riviera, this charming old Catalan town boasts breathtaking views over the bay, with the rugged cliffs of Capo Caccia providing a dramatic backdrop.

Step inside Alghero’s ancient walls, and you’ll find yourself in a beautifully preserved old town where medieval ramparts, historic lookout towers and winding cobbled streets tell stories of a fascinating past. The town’s Catalan heritage is still evident today from the architecture to the local dialect spoken by many residents.

With a lively atmosphere, Alghero offers a delightful mix of boutique shops, inviting cafés and exceptional restaurants serving fresh seafood and local delicacies. Whether you' are wandering through the charming piazzas or sipping an aperitivo by the marina, the town’s vibrant energy is undeniable.

Alghero is also a paradise for beach lovers. The town’s 5 kilometre-long stretch of white sandy beach extends from the port to Fertilia, offering clear blue sea and plenty of space to relax. Venture further along the coastline and you’ll discover hidden coves and stunning beaches leading to the unspoiled beauty of Porto Conte Natural Park.

Alghero is the perfect year-round getaway. In the warmer months, sun-seekers can soak up the Mediterranean rays, while the cooler seasons invite visitors to explore the island’s rugged landscapes, nearby villages and scenic coastal trails. Whether you are looking for a relaxing retreat or an adventurous escape, Alghero offers the best of both worlds.

With its rich history, vibrant culture and spectacular sea views, Alghero is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.



 Best Things to do in Sardinia in July

Sardinia's best Kept Secret - Wine!

No trip to Sardinia is complete without indulging in the local exceptional wines. While Sardinian wines are not widely available in the UK, they are renowned in Italy to be amongst their finest labels. From bold red Cannonau to crisp white Vermentino, the island’s unique climate and ancient winemaking traditions create truly unforgettable flavours.

A Taste of Sardinia’s Best

One of my personal favourites is Vermentino from Capichera - a beautifully aromatic white wine with fresh citrus notes and a mineral finish, perfect for sipping on a warm evening. Meanwhile, Alison swears by Cannonau, Sardinia’s signature red, known for its rich, full-bodied character and deep, fruity flavours.

Wine Tours & Tastings

The best way to experience Sardinian wines? A vineyard tour and tasting session! Many wineries across the island welcome visitors offering the chance to stroll through picturesque vineyards, learn about traditional winemaking methods and, of course, sample some of their finest bottles. And the best part? No matter where you are in Sardinia, you’re never too far from a local vineyard waiting to be explored.

Top Vineyards to Visit in Sardinia:

🍷 Capichera Winery (Arzachena) – Famous for producing some of Sardinia’s finest Vermentino, this winery near Costa Smeralda offers a luxurious tasting experience with breathtaking vineyard views.

🍷 Sella & Mosca (Alghero) – One of the island’s largest and most historic wineries, known for its award-winning Cannonau and Torbato. Their guided tours offer a dive into Sardinian winemaking traditions.

🍷 Cantina Argiolas (Serdiana) – A family-run vineyard producing high-quality Vermentino, Monica and Carignano wines. Their tastings often include delicious local cheeses and cured meats.

🍷 Cantina Sociale di Dorgali (Dorgali) – A must-visit for Cannonau lovers, this cooperative winery offers an authentic experience in the heart of Sardinia’s wine country.

🍷 Tenuta Olianas (Gerrei) – A biodynamic winery that combines tradition with innovation, producing organic wines with unique character.

🍷 Surrau Vineyards (Arzachena) – Located in the heart of Gallura, this winery blends contemporary architecture with traditional winemaking. Their Vermentino di Gallura DOCG is a standout and the estate offers guided tastings paired with local delicacies.

🍷 Piero Mancini Winery (Olbia) – Renowned for its exceptional Vermentino di Gallura, this family-run winery is a must-visit for white wine lovers. Their vineyard offers immersive tastings with panoramic views of Gallura’s rolling hills. (Note: make sure you contact this vineyard in advance to get its exact location, the address on the website is the head office in the city of Olbia.) 

If you’re visiting Sardinia, be sure to raise a glass (or two) to this island’s incredible wine culture - you won’t be disappointed!

Restaurants

Of course, Sardinia has many restaurants, from simple Pizzerias to extravagant gourmet establishments in Port Cervo. There are also many Agriturismo’ s (farm restaurants) to sample delicious traditional cusine - there are too many for me to list, however our favourite is the La Colti near Cannigione - well worth a visit but don’t forget to book in advance.

Exploring Sardinia by TRENINO VERDE: A Scenic Journey Through Nature and History

For a truly unique way to experience Sardinia, hop aboard one of the island’s "Green Trains", a network of historic railway routes that wind through the breathtaking countryside at a leisurely pace. These charming trains offer a glimpse into a different side of Sardinia, far from the bustling beaches and tourist hotspots.

The Green Trains have several routes throughout the island, taking passengers on a slow, immersive journey through rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages. Along the way, you’ll experience the untouched beauty of Sardinia’s rural landscapes and its rich cultural heritage.

In northern Sardinia, you can make your train journey even more special by combining it with a ride on the Mississippi-style riverboat  "Pollux". Cruise across Lago di Liscia offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and is a perfect complement to the train ride.

One of the highlights of this trip is a visit to Sardinia’s ancient olive tree, estimated to be over 4,000 years old! Standing beneath its sprawling branches is a humbling experience, a true testament to the island’s deep-rooted history.

Festivals and Events in Sardinia in July

Across Sardinia, throughout the year, you'll find a wide range of festivals that offer a glimpse into the island's rich traditions. These events showcase colourful traditional costumes, local crafts, lively music, singing, and dancing, along with delicious regional dishes at food stalls.

Most Sardinian festivals have religious roots, while others mark important events like the harvest. There are also many gastronomic celebrations tied to local produce, such as the Artichoke Festival in Uri in March and the Cherry Festival in Nuoro in June. Additionally, equestrian events, like Sa Sartiglia Carnival in Oristano (February)

S’Ardia Horse Race  in Sedilo (July),

are also highlights of the island's cultural calendar.

For more information detailed information click here >

Authors: Huw Nurse & Alison Nurse

As Owners and Managing Directors of the company, we have a passion for travel and of course Sardinia. We love the Gallura region in north east Sardinia with amazing granite rock formations and wonderful small coves, but most of all the spectacular turquoise sea. Our family have holidayed at Villa L’Arco for many years - we all love getting away from it all yet embracing the local lifestyle!