Sardinia Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Sardinia

Renting a car in Sardinia is an excellent choice for tourists seeking the freedom and flexibility to explore this stunning region at their own pace. With a hire car, you can easily manage luggage while visiting beautiful attractions like La Pelosa Beach, known for its picturesque sands, or the Port of Golfo Aranci, a marina perfect for outdoor adventures. If you appreciate scenic views, Porto Flavia offers a captivating bay experience. Additionally, a rental car allows convenient access to popular cities such as Olbia, where you can visit the National Archaeological Museum or relax at Pittulongu Beach, and Arzachena, home to the beautiful Marina di Porto Cervo. Cagliari, the capital city, features notable sites like Cagliari Cathedral and Piazza Yenne, all within a comfortable driving distance. Whether you are seeking beach days, outdoor activities, or scenic landscapes, having a car enhances your travel experience in Sardinia, making it easier to explore the diverse attractions and destinations this captivating region has to offer.

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: Situated in the beautiful region of Sardinia, Olbia is an ideal destination for those seeking beach, outdoor, and scenic experiences. Popular attractions include Pittulongu Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, and the National Archaeological Museum of Olbia for a cultural excursion. The vibrant Portisco Marina offers opportunities for adventure and water activities. Enjoy local dining options at nearby restaurants and wineries, making it a well-rounded choice for your stay in Sardinia.
• Cagliari: As the capital city of Sardinia, Cagliari is renowned for its rich culture and stunning beaches. Explore the historic Cagliari Cathedral and the lively Piazza Yenne, where you can soak in the city’s atmosphere. The International Trade Fair of Sardinia is a great spot for family-friendly activities. With numerous restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Cagliari provides a delightful blend of cultural immersion and culinary delights, appealing to a broad range of travellers.
• Arzachena: Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sardinia, Arzachena is perfect for outdoor and beach enthusiasts. Discover the stunning Marina di Porto Cervo, an ideal marina for adventure seekers, or relax at the pristine Capriccioli Beach and Principe Beach. This area also features exceptional golf courses and country clubs for leisure seekers. With ample dining options nearby, including restaurants and wineries, Arzachena ensures a memorable stay amidst natural beauty.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Sardinia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
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 generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well—just ensure the car is returned empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports; however, the added convenience may justify the 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 prevent unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your journey. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring 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.