Sardinia isn’t just about stunning beaches and rugged landscapes — it’s also about unique tours that give you a real taste of the island’s character. Whether you want to cruise past colorful caves, explore historic districts, or snorkel in crystal waters, Sardinia offers options that cater to all interests. I’ve always loved the La Maddalena Archipelago boat tours, thanks to their spectacular scenery and relaxing pace. But there’s also plenty for culture lovers, like the Cagliari food and wine experience, which offers a delicious dive into local flavors. These tours are a fantastic way to break away from your usual sightseeing and get a hands-on, authentic feel of Sardinia.
Among the many options, some stand out for their intimate nature, like the private kayak tour at Devil’s Saddle, and others for their breathtaking scenery, such as the Baunei coast boat trips. Whatever your style, Sardinia’s tours promise memorable moments, whether you’re swimming in secluded coves or wandering through historic streets. To help you decide, I’ve put together a detailed look at each of the best tours available.
1. La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour
Experience the beauty of La Maddalena Archipelago from the deck of a spacious boat, with stops at Spargi, Santa Maria, and Budelli islands. This 7-hour tour covers the highlights, including swimming breaks and free time on La Maddalena to explore the town’s shops and cafes. The boat is less than half full, so you’ll have plenty of space to relax or take in the scenery. The stops at Spargi and Budelli include swims amidst ancient shipwrecks and pristine beaches, while Santa Maria’s fine sands offer a perfect spot to unwind. Passengers consistently praise the well-organized trip and the comfort of the boat. One reviewer called it a “spectacular day,” appreciating the diverse stops and the peaceful atmosphere onboard. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, leisurely day on the water.
Bottom line: A great value for exploring the archipelago’s best spots with plenty of space and comfort, perfect for families and romantic getaways.
2. Cagliari: cultural walking tour, food and wine tasting experience
For those interested in Sardinian culture and cuisine, this 2.5-hour walking tour of Cagliari’s historic districts offers a lively introduction. Stroll through the famous fishing neighborhood, sampling local cheeses, artisan cold cuts, natural wines, and gelato. The guide will share stories of the city’s past as you explore narrow streets and colorful markets. The tour ends at the Bastione di Saint Remy, where panoramic views make a perfect photo opportunity. Visitors often comment on the guide’s passion and knowledge, with many saying it’s a “fantastic way to understand Sardinian flavors”. It’s perfect for food lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Cagliari.
Bottom line: An engaging small-group experience that combines delicious tastings with cultural insights, suitable for curious travelers wanting flavor and history.
3. Tour along the coast of Baunei: a unique experience
This 8-hour boat tour begins in Santa Maria Navarrese and takes you along Sardinia’s dramatic Baunei coastline in a rubber dinghy. The highlights include stops at Goloritze, Mariolu, and Luna beaches—some of the most untouched and scenic spots in the region. You’ll also have the chance to snorkel with provided gear in emerald waters and learn about the coastline’s geology and culture from your skipper. Reviewers love how this tour avoids crowded beaches, offering peaceful swims in secluded coves. The boat’s small size and flexible itinerary make it ideal for adventure seekers who want an intimate experience of this rugged coast.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore Sardinia’s wild side and enjoy exclusive access to remote beaches.
4. Cagliari Segway Tour
Discover Cagliari on two wheels with this 2-hour small-group Segway tour. Glide past historic landmarks like the hilltop Castello district, with its towers and ancient walls, and through the lively Marina district. The guide provides insightful commentary while you enjoy the breeze and scenic streets. Many guests highlight how easy and fun it is, even for first-timers, and how it’s a great way to cover more ground than walking. The tour concludes with a refreshing drink on a terrace overlooking the city. If you prefer a quick, active way to see Cagliari’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: An entertaining and efficient way to see major sights, ideal for travelers short on time or looking for a fun, active experience.
5. Cagliari: Tour with Snorkeling, Aperitif, and Various Stops
This 3.5-hour boat tour explores the Gulf of Angels, with stops at Calamosca, Cala Fighera, and the Sella del Diavolo rock formation. You’ll snorkel in clear waters, enjoy breathtaking views, and relax onboard with drinks and snacks. The tour is praised for its balance of adventure and leisure, with many reviewers mentioning how peaceful the swim stops are. The snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to jump into the water and see Sardinia’s vibrant marine life. It’s well suited for families and solo travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and light adventure.
Bottom line: An affordable, relaxed option for enjoying Sardinia’s marine beauty with a touch of local flavor.
6. Tavolara excursion
This full-day boat trip takes you along Sardinia’s stunning coast to visit the Tavolara Marine Area. The trip includes stops at coves and beaches, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in calm waters. Guests rave about the heavenly beaches and friendly skippers who share stories about the area’s natural beauty. The highlight is the visit to the famous Tavolara island, with its dramatic cliffs and scenic views. It’s best suited for those who love long, relaxing days on the water and want to see one of Sardinia’s most iconic landscapes.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of coastal exploration and marine adventures.
7. Exclusive Private Kayak Tour at Devil’s Saddle in Cagliari
This 3.5-hour private kayak adventure offers a personalized exploration of Cagliari’s wild coastline. You’ll paddle along the Devil’s Saddle, a narrow strip of land in the Gulf of Angels known for its transparent waters and rocky reefs. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, and you can customize your route based on your interests. Reviewers appreciate how this tour offers a more intimate perspective of Sardinia’s coast and how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are. It’s perfect for active travelers who like to control their pace and enjoy quiet, scenic spots.
Bottom line: For those seeking a tailored, close-up experience of Sardinia’s rocky coast and marine life, this private tour is a superb choice.
8. Beach excursion to Chia and Tuerredda from Cagliari
This full-day trip takes you directly to Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches in the Costa del Sud. You’ll spend around 2 hours at Chia Beach, famous for its flamingos and white sands, and another 2 hours at Tuerredda, known for its crystalline waters and small island. The tour includes a scenic drive along the coast with stops at viewpoints. Many travelers praise the easy logistics—the driver handles parking and navigation—so you can relax and focus on swimming or sunbathing. It’s ideal for beach lovers who want a hassle-free day away from crowds.
Bottom line: A convenient and affordable way to access Sardinia’s top beaches without the hassle of driving or parking.
9. A day excursion to La Maddalena
This 7-hour guided tour takes you on a comfortable boat to explore La Maddalena’s pristine islands. You’ll visit Cala Corsara on Spargi Island, with free time to relax on white sands or walk to panoramic viewpoints. The tour also includes a stop on Budelli Island at the famous Natural Pools. Guests especially enjoy the quiet, uncrowded beaches and the chance to see ancient rock formations like the “Witch’s Head.” The boat’s comfort and organized stops make it a great fit for travelers who want a relaxed day immersed in nature.
Bottom line: A highly rated outing for those looking to experience La Maddalena’s natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
10. Cagliari 3 Hours Luxury Motorboat Tour – Wine and Snorkeling
This luxury 3-hour motorboat combines spectacular views, snorkeling, and local wine. The boat features onboard changing rooms and bathrooms, making it easy to relax and move between swimming and tasting. The captain guides you through the coast, stopping at Calamosca and other scenic spots. Many reviews highlight the informative and friendly captain, with several mentioning the great value for the price. It’s best suited for those who want a short, upscale experience with a mix of relaxation, scenic cruising, and wine tasting.
Bottom line: Perfect for a classy afternoon out on the water with small-group intimacy and excellent service.
11. Cagliari Walking Tour
This 2-hour guided walk through Cagliari’s Castello district offers a compact overview of the city’s core sights. You’ll visit the Santa Cecilia Cathedral, the Torre dell’Elefante, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Bastione di Saint Remy. The guide’s local insights make the history come alive. Reviewers like how well-organized and friendly the tour is, with many saying it’s a perfect introduction for first-time visitors. It’s suitable for travelers with limited time who want a quick but meaningful taste of Sardinia’s capital.
Bottom line: An efficient way to see Cagliari’s highlights in a short time, ideal for cruise passengers or brief stays.
12. One day guided boat tour along the Baunei coast
This full-day boat tour offers 8 hours of exploring Sardinia’s spectacular coast from Santa Maria Navarrese. You’ll visit Cala Goloritzé, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Biriala, with stops for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews highlight the unmatched scenery and the expert skippers who share stories about the coastline’s geology and culture. The trip is suited for active travelers who appreciate longer excursions and want to explore Sardinia’s most iconic beaches without the hassle of land transport.
Bottom line: An all-day adventure perfect for travelers eager to experience Sardinia’s best coastal scenery by sea.
13. Corsica Tour by Sailboat from Santa Teresa di Gallura
This 7 to 8-hour sailing tour offers an eco-friendly, relaxing way to see Corsica’s Lavezzi and Piana islands. The boat is elegant, and the pace is leisurely, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the sea views. Passengers love the friendly crew and the authentic sailing experience, with many praising the food, wine, and music onboard. This trip is perfect for those who want a luxurious, no-rush adventure exploring Corsica’s coast from Sardinia.
Bottom line: An exclusive, scenic sailing experience for travelers who value comfort and want to see Corsica’s stunning islands.
14. 3 Hours Guided Dinghy Tour: Cagliari, Caves and Sella del Diavolo
This 3-hour guided dinghy tour offers a personalized look at Cagliari’s coastline. You’ll visit Calamosca Beach, Cala Fighera, and the legendary Devil’s Cave, with options to snorkel or just relax. The expert skipper ensures a smooth ride, and reviews mention how fun and relaxing the experience is, especially for families or first-timers. The flexible itinerary allows for customized stops, making it a great choice for small groups who want to combine sightseeing and swimming in a compact timeframe.
Bottom line: An excellent, flexible way to explore Cagliari’s marine caves and coastline with a friendly guide.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Sardinia
Picking the perfect tour depends on what you seek. For a full day of scenic boat cruising with swimming, the La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour or the A day excursion to La Maddalena offer relaxed, comprehensive experiences. If you’re eager to explore Cagliari’s culture and food, then the cultural walking tour or sea-based tasting tour fit best. Active travelers should consider the private kayak tour or the coastal dinghy trips like the guided tour along the Baunei coast for their intimacy and adventure. Budget-conscious travelers will find value in shorter trips like the Cagliari snorkeling and boat tour or the Cagliari walking tour.
When planning, consider the weather—some trips rely on smooth seas—and book early in the season for the best availability. For scenic coastal excursions, quiet mornings or late afternoons often offer the best light and fewer crowds. For island-hopping tours, check whether a ferry or boat transfer is included, especially for trips to Corsica or La Maddalena.
Sardinia’s diversity of tours means there’s something for every traveler. For a relaxed day amid stunning scenery, the La Maddalena boat tour is hard to beat. For cultural explorers, the Cagliari food and wine walk offers a delicious peek into local life. Active types will love the coastal kayak or dinghy adventures, while those craving exclusivity might opt for the Corsica sailboat. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you secure the best seats—these experiences fill up fast.
Enjoy Sardinia’s incredible landscape and rich culture. Pick a tour that suits your interests, and you’ll leave with memories to cherish long after you’ve packed your beach towel.