Costa Smeralda - Olbia - Eastern Sardinia Vacation (Flight + Hotel)

Experience the full spectrum of Eastern Sardinia, known for extravagant resorts and natural wonders. See Mediterranean opulence with some of Europe’s most expensive real estate. Costa Smeralda is a resort town founded by a prince who convinced several millionaires to buy the land from local farmers in the 1960s. The area’s popular activities include vintage car rallies, polo games, regattas and film festivals. It has emerged as a favorite spot for sailing, with expensive yachts roaming the shimmering, aquamarine waters and enormous cruise ships moored near the beach.

Venture away from the glamour to find smaller, less ritzy but equally charming locales. Olbia in the northeast is a small Sardinian city with a historic town center and a modern archaeological museum. Arzachena, a short drive away, has a stunning lagoon and long beach framed by thick forest. View its canals winding between narrow stone streets and stone houses seemingly unchanged by time.

This stretch of coast is dotted with heavenly beaches. Visit the cozy, emerald bay of Porto Istanato splash around. Pittulongu is actually a seaside area made up of four small beaches: La Playa, Squalo, Pellicano and Mare e Rocce. These are only 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the Olbia town center. From Santa Teresa Gallura on the northern tip of the island, you may be able to see Corsica.

Head inland from the coast to find the real Sardinia unchanged from ancient times. Discover vestiges of the prehistoric civilizations that once roamed its hills and shores. One fascinating example is the peculiarly Sardinian necropolis at Li Muri. Find burial sites dating from Neolithic times throughout the island.

It’s best to drive between the towns and beaches in Eastern Sardinia. Then get out and explore on foot. Stay at a luxury hotel or use campsites along the coast for a more rugged experience.