Costa Smeralda Itinerary

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Table of Contents

• Introduction
• The History of Costa Smeralda: From Aga Khan to Today
• Porto Cervo: The Heart of Costa Smeralda
• The Villages of Costa Smeralda
• The Beaches of Costa Smeralda
• What to See in Costa Smeralda
• What to Do in Costa Smeralda
• Prices in Costa Smeralda: How Much Does a Vacation Cost?
• Where to Stay: Hotels and Accommodations
• Practical Tips
• Conclusion

Introduction

Costa Smeralda is one of the most exclusive and fascinating destinations in Sardinia. This stretch of coastline in the northeast of the island is world-famous for its crystal-clear emerald waters, which gave the area its name. It offers a perfect mix of luxury, unspoiled nature, and Sardinian traditions.

I’ve had the great opportunity to visit Costa Smeralda several times for work. I stayed in luxury hotels, sailed along the coast on beautiful yachts, took part in exclusive events, and got to know the true spirit of this place. Every time, I’m amazed by the contrast between modern luxury and Sardinia’s wild nature.

One important thing to understand is that Sardinia is not only Costa Smeralda. They are very different. But at the same time, without Costa Smeralda, Sardinia wouldn’t be what it is today. This area helped the world discover the island by investing in infrastructure, promotion, and hospitality.

If you visit only Costa Smeralda, you miss a lot. But if you skip it completely, you also miss one of the most charming and well-designed tourist destinations in Europe.

The History of Costa Smeralda: From Aga Khan to Today

The modern story of Costa Smeralda began in the 1960s. During a cruise in the Mediterranean, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV was amazed by the wild beauty of this part of Sardinia. He saw the potential to create a luxury tourist destination that respected both nature and local culture.

In 1962, Karim Aga Khan IV and a group of international investors founded the Costa Smeralda Consortium. They bought about 2,000 hectares of land along the coast between Arzachena and San Pantaleo. The plan was ambitious: to build a high-end tourism area that could compete with the most exclusive spots in the world, while keeping the architecture in harmony with the Mediterranean landscape.

The history of Costa Smeralda is closely connected to the vision of Karim Aga Khan IV, who transformed a land of shepherds and fishermen into one of the most glamorous places on Earth. Porto Cervo, the heart of Costa Smeralda, was designed following traditional Mediterranean architectural principles. Its villas blend perfectly with the rocky coast and Mediterranean vegetation.

Porto Cervo: The Heart of Costa Smeralda

Porto Cervo is the main town in Costa Smeralda. Built around a natural harbor, today it is one of the best-equipped tourist ports in the Mediterranean. Its elegant squares, luxury boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and trendy clubs attract celebrities and lifestyle lovers.

Walking through the center, you’ll feel a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Don’t miss:

• Stella Maris Church, with a beautiful panoramic view

• The Old Port and the New Marina

• The Promenade du Port shopping area

Porto Cervo is also a great place to rent a yacht and explore the coastline.

The Villages of Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda is made up of a series of exclusive villages, each with its own charm and identity. The main ones to visit include:

• Porto Cervo: Elegant and lively, it's the beating heart of Costa Smeralda.

• Porto Rotondo: Stylish and well-maintained, with a famous marina, luxury shops, and a quieter vibe than Porto Cervo.
• Cala di Volpe: Known for its luxury hotel and scenic bay.
• Romazzino: Small and refined, with peaceful beaches and charming hotels.
• Liscia di Vacca: A quiet residential area surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation.
• Pantogia: A hilly area with panoramic views over the Gulf of Pevero.
• Abbiadori: A calm and strategic location, just minutes from Porto Cervo.
• Cala Granu: A hidden little bay, perfect for a swim away from the crowds.
• San Pantaleo: A lovely artistic village in the mountains, famous for its craft market and local art shops.
• Arzachena: A historic town with many services, ideal for discovering the archaeological sites of inland Gallura.

There are also other interesting nearby places:

• Baja Sardinia: With a lively nightlife and sandy beaches.
• Poltu Quatu: A picturesque fjord with a marina, hotels, and restaurants.

  

• Palau: A great base for trips to the La Maddalena Archipelago

  

• Santa Teresa di Gallura: Famous for Capo Testa and its granite cliffs.

  These villages complete the Costa Smeralda experience with a mix of nature, culture, and glamour.

The Beaches of Costa Smeralda

The beaches of Costa Smeralda are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. White sand, turquoise waters, and untouched nature make these bays a true paradise.

Here are some must-see beaches:

• Spiaggia del Principe: This was said to be Aga Khan's favorite beach. He is believed to have fallen in love with it at first sight. Originally known as Portu di Li Cogghji, it became famous as the "Prince’s Beach."

• Capriccioli: Made up of three main small coves, it offers different views and high-quality services. Great for those who want comfort and natural beauty.

  

• Spiaggia di Liscia Ruja: The longest beach in Costa Smeralda, perfect for long walks and beach sports. Thanks to its size, it's usually less crowded.

• Cala di Volpe: Known for the luxury hotel nearby, it offers a classy atmosphere and top-level services.
• Piccolo Pevero and Grande Pevero: Twin beaches with stunning views, ideal for water sports in a calm and safe environment.
• Romazzino: Small and elegant, perfect for those looking for peace and quiet.

Tip: In high season, it’s best to arrive early in the morning to find parking and a good spot on the beach.

What to See in Costa Smeralda

There’s much more to see in Costa Smeralda than just its postcard-perfect beaches. Beyond the crystal-clear sea and glamorous lifestyle, this part of Sardinia also offers cultural, historical, and natural spots that are worth visiting—especially if you want to discover the region’s more authentic side.

One must-see place is the Stella Maris Church, overlooking the old port of Porto Cervo. Designed by architect Michele Busiri Vici, it’s a small masterpiece of Mediterranean architecture. Inside, you’ll find contemporary artworks and a peaceful atmosphere, far from the luxury and crowds of the coast.

If you’re interested in archaeology, don’t miss the Nuraghe La Prisgiona. This Bronze Age archaeological site is located inland near Arzachena and offers a fascinating look into the history of the area, long before it became a luxury travel destination.

Nature lovers should take a walk to Capo d’Orso, near Palau. Here you’ll see a spectacular granite rock formation shaped by the wind—it looks like a bear watching the sea. The view from the top is breathtaking, with a panorama over the La Maddalena Archipelago.

Including these stops in your Costa Smeralda itinerary means enjoying a more complete and meaningful experience, where culture, history, and nature blend beautifully with the elegance that made this area world-famous.

What to Do in Costa Smeralda

There’s plenty to do in Costa Smeralda for all ages and interests:

• Water sports: Sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, water skiing, and scuba diving are just some of the activities you can enjoy in the area’s clear waters.

• Golf: The Pevero Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, is one of the most beautiful golf courses in Europe, with stunning sea views.

• Boat trips: Take a tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago, enjoy a sunset cruise, or rent a private boat to explore hidden coves.

• Nightlife: Exclusive clubs, open-air discos, and sea-view lounge bars make evenings exciting in Costa Smeralda.

• Shopping: You’ll find luxury boutiques, local craft shops, and markets for every budget.

• Wellness: Enjoy a relaxing day in a luxury spa or wellness center after sunbathing and swimming.

Prices in Costa Smeralda: How Much Does a Vacation Cost?

Costa Smeralda is known as an exclusive destination, and prices can be high—especially for luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, and beach clubs. However, with a bit of planning, you can enjoy a holiday even on a medium budget.

Some useful tips:

• Book well in advance

• Stay in nearby towns like Cannigione or Arzachena

• Eat at agriturismi (farm restaurants) or local trattorias

• Avoid traveling in July and August

Costa Smeralda has something for everyone, even if it mainly attracts high-end tourism.

Where to Stay: Hotels and Accommodations

Costa Smeralda offers a wide range of places to stay, from luxury resorts to more affordable options.

For a luxury stay, you’ll find plenty of 5-star and 4-star hotels offering excellent service, beautiful views, and elegant settings.

Here are some of the most representative 5-star hotels:

• Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel – An icon of the Costa Smeralda, famous for its architecture inspired by Sardinian villages and its prime location on the bay.

• Hotel Pitrizza, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Perfect for those seeking privacy and relaxation, with exclusive villas and private pools surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation.

• Hotel Romazzino, a Belmond Hotel – Set in a lush garden with direct access to the sea, it’s one of the most elegant places in the area.

• Colonna Resort Porto Cervo – Known for one of the largest swimming pools in Europe and stunning sea views, it’s ideal for a comfortable and relaxing vacation.

• Grand Hotel Poltu Quatu – Located in a natural fjord, it combines elegance, exclusive services, and a strategic location.

4-Star Hotels

• Hotel Le Palme – Offers a private beach and large green spaces, ideal for those who want peace and contact with nature.

• Hotel Luci di La Muntagna – Famous for its panoramic view of Porto Cervo, it blends Sardinian design with modern comfort.

• Hotel Balocco – Elegant and welcoming, known for its refined style and attention to detail.

• Hotel Petra Bianca – Located on a hilltop, it offers bright rooms, a panoramic pool, and a peaceful atmosphere.

• Hotel Nibaru – Surrounded by nature, it's appreciated for its calm and genuine Sardinian hospitality.

• Club Hotel Baja Sardinia – A stylish seafront hotel with views of the La Maddalena Archipelago, known for its central location, warm atmosphere, and seaside terrace, perfect for sunset aperitifs.

Each hotel showcases the best of hospitality in Costa Smeralda, offering a mix of luxury, comfort, and stunning natural beauty in one of the most exclusive places in Sardinia.

Alternative Options

• Private villas for rent

• Residences with services

• Charming B&Bs in nearby towns

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: May–June and September–October are ideal months to avoid the crowds and high prices, with great weather.

Getting around: A car is essential to explore the area. Consider renting a luxury car to enjoy the full Costa Smeralda experience.

Bookings: In high season, it’s very important to book accommodations and restaurants well in advance.

What to pack: Bring elegant clothes for nights out in exclusive clubs, and comfortable shoes for exploring.

Respect the environment: Costa Smeralda stays beautiful thanks to environmental care. Always use the proper facilities and respect nature.

Conclusioni

Planning a trip around Costa Smeralda is the best way to explore one of the most fascinating places in the Mediterranean. Here, luxury meets Sardinia’s wild nature, creating a unique balance of elegance and authenticity. From the crystal-clear waters of the beaches to the refined charm of Porto Cervo, every stop offers different and unforgettable emotions.

Yes, prices in Costa Smeralda can be high, but every euro is worth it for the incredible landscapes, the exclusive atmosphere, and the chance to live a truly special experience. It’s the kind of trip that stays with you for a long time.

Whether you stay in a luxury resort or a small B&B inland, Costa Smeralda will surprise you. In just a few kilometers, you’ll find breathtaking views, dreamy beaches, beautiful architecture, and an exciting mix of tradition and innovation.

Take your time to discover the best beaches, stroll through Porto Cervo, learn about the history of Costa Smeralda, and fall in love with a corner of Sardinia that changed the face of international tourism forever.

This article is part of the series “Discovering Sardinia,” dedicated to exploring the island’s hidden gems. For more insights into other Sardinian destinations, check out the other articles in this section.

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