Sardinia Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Sardinia

Renting a car in Sardinia offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for your trip. Sardinia is home to stunning attractions, such as La Pelosa Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline, and the Port of Golfo Aranci, which is perfect for outdoor adventures. Porto Flavia provides breathtaking scenery, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to visit popular cities like Olbia, where you can discover the National Archaeological Museum and Pittulongu Beach. Arzachena offers access to Marina di Porto Cervo and Capriccioli Beach, both ideal for beach lovers. In Cagliari, you can explore the Cagliari Cathedral and Piazza Yenne. With a rental car, you can navigate between these destinations with ease, ensuring you make the most of your Sardinian experience, whether you're seeking beach relaxation or outdoor exploration.

Most popular car hires in Sardinia

• Midsize: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for couples and families. This option strikes a perfect balance between space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who need room for luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore Sardinia at their own pace.
• Economy: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families. This car type is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly option that still provides versatility and ease of travel. Its smaller size makes manoeuvring through Sardinia’s charming streets simple.
• Compact: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families. Compact cars offer a balance of space and agility, making them a practical choice for navigating both urban areas and open roads in Sardinia. They are particularly beneficial for those who want a little extra luggage capacity without compromising on ease of parking.

Where to stay in Sardinia

• Olbia: Olbia is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a blend of beach and outdoor experiences. The stunning Pittulongu Beach is a short distance away, offering a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. For those interested in culture, the National Archaeological Museum of Olbia showcases fascinating archaeological finds. Additionally, Portisco Marina provides opportunities for adventurous activities on the water. With a variety of local restaurants and wineries, visitors can enjoy delicious meals and fine wines, making Olbia a vibrant base for exploration.
• Cagliari: Cagliari offers a rich cultural experience combined with beautiful beaches. The impressive Cagliari Cathedral is a must-see for culture enthusiasts, while Piazza Yenne serves as a lively hub for socialising and relaxation. The International Trade Fair of Sardinia hosts various events and is suited for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Cagliari also boasts nearby beaches that are perfect for leisure. With a selection of restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Cagliari provides a delightful culinary experience in addition to its cultural attractions.
• Arzachena: Arzachena is a picturesque destination renowned for its scenic beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can unwind at the beautiful Principe Beach or explore Capriccioli Beach, both known for their stunning natural beauty. The Marina di Porto Cervo offers a charming marina experience, perfect for those who enjoy water-based activities. The area also features a range of restaurants and wineries, allowing guests to savour local cuisine and wines. Arzachena is ideal for those looking for a balance of relaxation and adventure in a breathtaking setting.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Sardinia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and can be easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling alternatives, which can also be acceptable; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide added peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to dodge extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Sardinia

The best time to rent a car in Sardinia is January, when prices are low and demand is average. February follows closely, with both low prices and low demand making it a quiet period. March through May sees average prices and demand, providing reasonable options as well. However, from June to August, prices and demand peak, especially in August, which is the most expensive month. September and October return to average prices but with higher demand levels.