Are you thinking about renting a car in Sardinia but not sure if it’s the right choice?
I had the same doubts before my trip until I hit the road and realised that exploring Sardinia by car is the best way to see this beautiful island.
While you can get around places like Cagliari without a car, public transport across the island is limited and slow.
Tours exist, but they rarely give you the freedom to chase your own route.
With a rental car, you’ll get to stop at empty beaches, drive scenic mountain roads, and adjust the plans as you go. Something no bus schedule could ever offer.
If you’re still planning your route, check out my Sardinia itinerary for ideas on where to go and what to see.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Why hiring a car in Sardinia is the most flexible option for travelers
- What driving on the island is really like, from road quality to parking
- How to find the best car rental in Sardinia
- Which type of vehicle to go for
- Practical tips and insights, and real answers to common concerns
How to rent a car in Sardinia
If you’re already convinced that the best way to explore the island is by car, now comes the easy part—actually booking it!
I recommend starting your search on Discover Cars. This is a platform that compares multiple offers across different companies so you can find the most competitive price for your dates.
It’s one of the most convenient ways to sort through all the Sardinia car rental options in one place.
Most offers include free cancellation, and you can apply handy filters like:
- Number of seats
- Air conditioning
- Unlimited mileage
- Automatic vs manual
- Company rating
- Fuel policy
If you’re looking for cheap car hire in Sardinia, sort the results by price (low to high) to see the most budget-friendly options first.
Each listing also shows the specific conditions tied to that rental, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before booking.
Given how popular Sardinia gets (especially in summer!), the earlier you book, the better the price and availability. Take a moment now to find the car that suits your trip 👇🏻
As a side note, it’s always worth checking the rental company’s own website, but in most cases, Discover Cars has the better deal.
💡 Planning to explore the north of the island? Starting your trip in Olbia puts you in the perfect spot to discover Sardinia’s most stunning beaches and charming coastal towns. From Costa Smeralda to La Maddalena, the north is packed with scenic drives and hidden gems. Don’t miss my Northern Sardinia itinerary for a full breakdown of what to see and where to go.
Where to rent a car in Sardinia
The most popular and convenient places to go for car rental in Sardinia are the island’s three main airports: Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero.
Picking up your vehicle right after landing saves time and gives you the flexibility to start your road trip immediately. You won’t need to worry about getting into the city or booking extra transfers.
Besides the airports, many rental companies also allow pick-up or drop-off at select locations in larger towns or international hotels, especially in cities like Cagliari and Olbia. This can be helpful if you’re spending a few days without a car and only renting for part of your trip.
Cagliari Airport car rental (CAG)
Cagliari Airport is the best option if you’re starting your trip in the south of Sardinia.
Rental counters are located just outside the terminal, and the drive into the city is quick and easy. You can also plan a one-way rental from Cagliari to another city if you’re doing a loop of the island.
Renting a car at Olbia Airport (OLB)
Olbia is the gateway to the Costa Smeralda and the best car rental in Sardinia if you’re planning to explore the beautiful northern coast.
From here, it’s a short drive to Porto Cervo, La Maddalena, or the Gulf of Orosei.
💡 EXTRA TIP: Many rental companies allow one-way drop-offs between Olbia, Alghero, and Cagliari for a small fee. This is perfect if you’re planning a full island road trip. The island might look small on the map, but distances add up quickly, and a car gives you the flexibility to cover more ground without rushing.
Renting a car at Alghero Airport (AHO)
Alghero Airport is best for discovering the northwest coast of Sardinia.
From Alghero, you’re just a short drive from the scenic roads to Bosa, Neptune’s Grotto, and the historic old town of Alghero itself. It’s a great starting point if you’re after a more laid-back route with fewer crowds.
What type of car should you rent in Sardinia?
Choosing the right vehicle is just as important as renting a car in Sardinia in the first place.
The island has a bit of everything: narrow village lanes, scenic mountain roads, and the occasional rugged path.
So, picking a car that matches your route can make all the difference.
- Small cars are ideal for most travelers. They’re easier to park, especially in tight spots or historic centers, and they handle the narrow streets of local towns without stress.
- SUVs are a great option if you’re planning to explore more remote areas or plan to do a bit of off-the-beaten-path adventuring. While not essential for most routes, they’re perfect if you’re heading inland or taking lesser-known roads in the interior.
- Manual vs Automatic: Driving in Sardinia isn’t difficult, but automatic cars tend to be more expensive and less common. If prices are similar, I’d say go for the automatic. It’s just easier, especially on winding roads or in unfamiliar towns.
No matter what type of car you choose, make sure it suits your travel style. Whether you’re planning to hop between beach towns or take your time exploring Sardinia by car, comfort and convenience should come first.
What to expect when driving in Sardinia
Driving in Sardinia is surprisingly straightforward, especially if you’re used to road-tripping elsewhere in Europe.
Most main roads are well-paved and easy to navigate. However, once you head into rural areas or coastal routes, expect narrower lanes and plenty of winding curves.
Take your time, and enjoy the views—some of them are seriously spectacular.
Here are a few things to know before you hit the road:
- Traffic rules: Sardinians drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelts are mandatory, and using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free system.
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on secondary roads, and 110 km/h on main highways—unless signs say otherwise.
- Signage: Road signs are clear and follow the same format as the rest of Italy. Distances are in kilometres.
- Parking tips: white lines mean free parking, blue lines are paid (usually via street meters or apps like EasyPark), and yellow lines are reserved or restricted.
- Fuel stations: Fuel stations in Sardinia may close on Sundays or during lunch hours (self-service gas stations are open 24/7, though). Both petrol (“benzina”) and diesel (“gasolio”) are available, so double-check your rental’s fuel type.
💼 TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unexpected events happen anywhere in the world, so I always recommend getting travel insurance. I regularly use Heymondo, which offers some of the highest coverages on the market at very competitive prices. As well as covering medical expenses, Heymondo’s insurance also covers the loss or theft of luggage, electronic equipment and more. They also have a 24/7 customer service through their App. As A Ticket to Take Off reader, you get a 5% discount when purchasing Heymondo insurance. The purchase must be made using this link, and the price shown on the website already includes the discount.
Car rental tips for Sardinia
If you’re planning to rent a car in Sardinia, a bit of prep can save you money and stress.
Here are some essential tips to help you get the best deal and avoid common mistakes:
- Book early, especially for the summer. Sardinia gets busy fast, and prices can jump last minute.
- Use a comparison tool like Discover Cars to view multiple offers in one place. You’ll be able to sort by price, car type, rental company rating, and even filter for debit card-friendly options.
- Check the rental conditions carefully before booking: mileage limits, cancellation terms, and fuel policy can vary.
- Consider full coverage insurance—it gives peace of mind, especially since you’ll likely leave the car unattended while exploring beaches or hiking trails.
- Bring a credit card, as most companies require one for the deposit. If you don’t have one, select the “debit card for deposit” filter on Discover Cars to find rentals that allow debit card bookings.
Best time of year for renting a car in Sardinia
The best time to rent a car in Sardinia is between April and June or September and October. These months offer the sweet spot: good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices for both cars and accommodation.
If you can, avoid the peak of summer, especially late July and early August. This is when traffic increases and parking can become a challenge near beaches and tourist hotspots.
That said, I actually visited in August, and to my surprise, traffic was totally manageable.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Sardinia?
On average, a Sardinia car rental will cost you between 30€ and 50€ per day.
However, it depends on the season, car type, and how early you book. Prices can rise significantly in summer, especially for automatic cars or larger vehicles.
Keep in mind, there are a few extra fees that might apply:
- One-way drop-off (e.g. picking up in Cagliari and returning in Alghero)
- Young driver surcharge (usually for drivers under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- GPS or child seat add-ons
To get the best value, it’s a good idea to compare several offers in advance and book as early as possible.
Rental car insurance in Sardinia: is it worth it?
Most rentals in Sardinia include CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and basic theft protection. But these often come with high deductibles. This means you’d still have to pay a large sum out of pocket if something goes wrong. That’s where full coverage comes in.
Platforms like Discover Cars let you add full insurance at booking for a reasonable price. This usually covers damage, theft, and admin fees, so you won’t need to worry about surprise costs.
Speaking from experience, to feel more at ease throughout your trip, I recommend going for full coverage when you book your car.
Roads can get narrow and winding and parking in tight spaces can lead to minor scrapes or scratches. So, getting insurance is particularly a good choice for Sardinia.
You’ll usually need to leave a deposit on your credit card when picking up the car (often around 600€–1500€, depending on the provider). The deposit is refunded if no damage is reported. With full coverage, you’ll have that extra layer of peace of mind for the whole trip.
Frequently Asked Questions about car rentals in Sardinia
» Do you need a car in Sardinia to get around?
You can visit Sardinia without a car, but it’s not ideal. Public transport is limited outside major cities, and many of the island’s best beaches, villages, and hiking trails are only reachable by car.
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and access places off the typical tourist path.
» Is it safe to drive in Sardinia?
Yes, driving in Sardinia is generally safe. Roads are well-maintained, and traffic is lighter than in mainland Italy. However, some rural or coastal roads are narrow and winding, so drive cautiously.
Always follow local speed limits and keep a safe distance. Parking is straightforward, and road signs are clear. If you’re confident behind the wheel, you’ll have no issues navigating the island.
» What side of the road do they drive on in Sardinia?
In Sardinia, as in the rest of Italy, people drive on the right-hand side of the road. Overtaking is done on the left, and roundabouts follow a counterclockwise flow.
» Can I rent a car in Sardinia with a debit card?
Yes, but not all rental companies accept debit cards. If you don’t have a credit card, use a platform like Discover Cars and filter for rentals that allow a “debit card for deposit.”
Just make sure the debit card is in the main driver’s name and has sufficient funds for the security deposit. Some companies may also require proof of a return flight or additional documents.
» How old do you have to be to rent a car in Sardinia?
The minimum age to rent a car in Sardinia is usually 21, but it can vary by rental company. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge and limited vehicle options.
Some companies may require the driver to have held their license for at least one or two years. Always check the terms and conditions before booking to avoid surprises at pick-up.
» Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Sardinia?
If you have a driving license issued in the EU, you don’t need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Sardinia.
However, if your license is from outside the EU, you may be required to carry an IDP along with your national driving license.
» Can you take a rental car from Sardinia to mainland Italy or Corsica?
In most cases, no. Most rental agreements in Sardinia do not allow ferry crossings to mainland Italy or Corsica.
Even if it’s technically possible to board a ferry with the car, doing so without written permission from the rental company could void your insurance and lead to extra fees.
If you’re planning to visit other regions, it’s best to return your car in Sardinia and rent a new one at your next destination.
» What documents do you need to rent a car in Sardinia?
You’ll need a valid driving license (plus an IDP if required), a passport or ID card, and a credit card in the driver’s name.
If using a debit card, make sure the rental company allows it. Bring your booking confirmation too, and double-check the rental terms for any specific requirements.
Final thoughts on renting a car in Sardinia
Renting a car in Sardinia was hands-down one of the best decisions I made for my trip.
It gave me the freedom to chase turquoise waters and stop at roadside viewpoints I hadn’t planned for. Public transport just wouldn’t have taken me to half the places I experienced and that’s what made the trip truly special.
Whether you’re planning a beach-hopping adventure or want to explore inland gems at your own pace, renting a car in Sardinia offers the flexibility and convenience to make it all happen.
Booking through Discover Cars made the process quick and stress-free, with great prices and the option to cancel for free if plans changed.
Have you been to Sardinia or are you planning your first trip? I’d love to hear about your experience or any questions you might have!
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
