Trip Planning · U.S. Edition
A week in North Sardinia
Short drives, calm bays and one home base in Palau — the easiest way to do Italy's best coast.
What a week actually looks like
Most American visitors underestimate how compact North Sardinia is. From Palau, the Maddalena ferry is a five-minute walk, the Costa Smeralda beaches are 20 to 35 minutes by car, and the inland villages of Gallura are under an hour. That means one apartment, one parking spot, and days that start whenever you wake up. Two boat days, three beach days and two slow days is a rhythm that works for almost everyone.
What it costs (per day, per person)
Apartment in Palau
Far below Costa Smeralda hotel rates, with a kitchen, washing machine and free parking included. Weekly stays get the best rate.
Rental car
€45–90 a day in peak summer, €25–45 in June or late September. Gas is about €1.90 a litre.
Maddalena boat tour
€45–70 per person for a full day with lunch on board; private skippered boats start around €400 for a half day.
Eating out
€12–16 for a pizza, €25–40 for a seafood dinner, €1.50 for an espresso standing at the bar.
Practical notes before you fly
- ETIAS: U.S. passport holders will need the new European travel authorization — apply online before departure.
- International Driving Permit: required alongside your state license at Italian rental desks.
- Plugs: Type C/F, 230V. Bring adapters, not converters.
- Groceries: two supermarkets in Palau, both a short walk from the apartments — handy for breakfasts and beach picnics.
- Pets: our apartments do not accept animals.
Frequently asked questions
Is North Sardinia easy for a first trip to Italy?
Yes. Olbia Airport is small and quick to clear, the drive to Palau takes 40 minutes, distances between beaches are short, and English is widely spoken in tourism along this coast.
How long should we stay?
Seven to ten nights in one base. Between Maddalena boat days, Costa Smeralda beaches and a couple of slow days in town, nobody runs out of things to do — and you avoid packing and repacking.
Which beaches are best for swimming?
Porto Pollo and Cala Capra near Palau are shallow and sheltered; Spiaggia del Principe and Capriccioli on the Costa Smeralda have soft sand and calm water. Water shoes help on the pebbly coves.
Do we need a car?
A rental car from Olbia makes beach-hopping far easier. In Palau itself everything is walkable and your parking spot is included, so the car can stay put on lazy days.
What is the weather like in July and August?
Hot and dry: 82–90°F (28–32°C) with a reliable afternoon breeze on the coast and sea temperatures around 77°F (25°C). June and September are milder and much quieter.