Discover Sardinia with Toddlers: Your Ultimate Guide to Family Travel in Italy
Written by Brittany Britten Published on October 18th, 2024
The best Sardinian meal at Bacco Bistro in Bosa.
Sardinia, a stunning island gem off the coast of Italy, offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families traveling with toddlers. Known for its powdery white sand beaches that are ideal for little feet, Sardinia is a toddler-friendly destination that stands out among Europe's best family travel spots. With limited public transit, renting a car is essential, allowing you to explore charming towns like Budoni and Bosa, each offering unique cultural experiences and delightful local cuisine. From exploring the pine forests near Budoni Beach, to savoring delicious mortadella and burrata pizza at Pizzeria Da Daniele n Limpiddu, Sardinia promises a memorable family journey filled with joy and discovery. Dive into this ultimate guide to uncover Sardinia's hidden gems, ensuring a fun-filled and stress-free adventure for you and your little ones.
When is the Best Time to Visit Sardinia?
Peak season in Sardinia is June 15th until Septemer 15th. During these months, you'll pay for parking in more places and find it a bit more crowded than shoulder or low season. We visited at the beginning of June and noticed a bit of preparation around the towns for high season. The weather was really enjoyable at this time, and can be gorgeous into October. I highly recommend visiting during shoulder season! You'll find temperatures in April and early May a little chilly for laying on the beach, but perfect for exploring and hiking.
During the winter you will encounter some colder temperatures in the mountains, and will likely find that some of the smaller villages have limited amenities for tourists during this time. For an enjoyable experience with young children, we recommend visiting April to November!
Porto Taverna Beach in Sardinia
Getting to Sardinia with Toddlers
Flights and Ferries to Sardinia
Traveling to Sardinia with toddlers is manageable and can be quite exciting. You have two primary options: flights and ferries. Flying into Olbia or Cagliari airports is convenient, with many airlines offering direct routes from major European cities. This option is particularly suitable for families looking to minimize travel time with young children.
Alternatively, ferries provide a scenic and leisurely journey across the Mediterranean. An overnight ferry from Livorno to Olbia can be an adventurous start to your family holiday - we booked a suite with Grimaldi lines and it was perfect! Ferries offer cabins where your toddlers can rest, making the journey more comfortable. Bonus: you wake up in a new place which is super exciting for toddlers! You can also take ferries from Civitavecchia (near Rome) to Cagliari, or from Genoa, Barcelona, and Toulon, France.
Both options have their benefits, with flights being quicker and ferries offering a more relaxed journey. Choose based on your family's needs and preferences for exploring this beautiful island.
Grimaldi Lines Overnight Ferry from Livorno to Olbia
Navigating Sardinia: Car Rental Tips
Once you arrive in Sardinia, renting a car is crucial for navigating the island, especially with toddlers in tow. Public transportation is limited, so having your own vehicle provides much-needed flexibility and convenience. When selecting a rental car, opt for a spacious vehicle that can comfortably accommodate car seats and luggage. Many rental companies, including those at Olbia Airport, offer child-friendly options.
Before booking, compare rates online and consider reserving in advance to secure the best deal. It's also wise to double-check the rental policy regarding child seats; some companies provide them as add-ons.We booked via Discover Cars and ended up with a car from Target Rent, a small company based at the Olbia Airport. It was a small car, but cost us 395 euros for 11 days, or about 35 euros a day.
Driving in Sardinia is generally straightforward, but be prepared for narrow roads in rural areas. Keep Google Maps handy, and don't hesitate to ask locals for directions. With your own car, you can explore Sardinia's beautiful landscapes and toddler-friendly beaches at your own pace.
Views from the tourist train in Bosa. You can catch the train at Piazza IV Novembre.
Exploring Sardinia's Toddler-Friendly Beaches
Best Beaches for Kids in Sardinia
We loved Budoni Beach for not only the white sand, but for the beautiful pine forest Pineta di Sant'Anna at the southern end. You'll find walking paths, the restaurant Shardana with a beautiful patio, and a playground visible from the patio!
Sardinia boasts some of the best beaches for toddlers in Europe, with soft sands and gentle waters perfect for little ones. Budoni Beach is a top choice for families, offering a vast stretch of white sand and shallow waters ideal for safe play. Plus, the nearby Pineta Sant'Anna pine forest provides shade and a playground, making it a hit for both kids and parents.
The white sand at Budoni Beach
Another fantastic option is La Cinta Beach in San Teodoro. Known for its clear, turquoise waters and expansive shore, it provides ample space for toddlers to explore and enjoy. Porto Taverna is also worth a visit, offering a scenic backdrop with calm waves that gently lap the shore. Park in the "field" at parcheggio and take the beautiful boardwalk to the beach.
Crystal clear, shallow water at Porto Taverna Beach - perfect for toddlers!
These beaches not only offer natural beauty but also essential amenities like restrooms and eateries, ensuring a comfortable day out for families. With such toddler-friendly beaches, Sardinia proves to be an ideal destination for family travel in Italy.
Hidden Gems: Discovering La Pelosa
La Pelosa Beach is a hidden gem that stands out as one of Sardinia's most stunning beaches. Located near the town of Stintino, this beach is renowned for its crystal-clear shallow waters and soft, white sand, making it perfect for toddlers. The gentle gradient of the sea allows children to wade safely, providing parents with peace of mind.
While La Pelosa is breathtaking, it's important to note that it's a popular spot, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advisable to secure a good spot, and you might need to pay for parking nearby. The beach also requires beachgoers to use mats to protect its delicate sands.
The view of the nearby Torre della Pelosa, a historic watchtower, adds a touch of history to your beach day. With its unique charm, La Pelosa promises a memorable experience for families visiting Sardinia.
Family Activities and Accommodations
Outside our apartment rental in Bosa.
Child-Friendly Stays and Agriturismo
When visiting Sardinia with toddlers, choosing the right accommodation is key to a stress-free holiday. Child-friendly stays are abundant, ranging from beachfront resorts with kid-friendly amenities to charming agriturismo that offer a unique experience. Agriturismo, or farm stays, are particularly appealing for families looking to immerse themselves in local culture and nature.
These farm stays often come with the bonus of interacting with animals, which can be an exciting experience for young children. They also serve authentic Sardinian meals, providing a taste of local cuisine in a family-friendly setting. Many agriturismo are located near popular attractions, making them convenient bases for exploring the island.
Opt for accommodations with spacious rooms, cribs, and play areas to ensure a comfortable stay. With thoughtful planning, your choice of stay can enhance your Sardinian adventure, making it both enjoyable and memorable for the whole family.
Fun Activities and Local Adventures
Sardinia offers a variety of fun activities and local adventures perfect for families traveling with toddlers. Start by exploring the charming town of Bosa, where the colorful buildings and cobblestone streets create a magical backdrop for family strolls. Don't miss the chance to ride the tourist train, a delightful experience for kids.
The beautiful streetside dining at Ristobottega Don Carlo in Bosa.
For a touch of history, visit the Castle of Serravalle, where little ones can pretend to be knights and princesses. The nearby playgrounds provide additional entertainment, ensuring toddlers have plenty of opportunities to play and explore.
The climb up to Castle of Serraville from the town of Bosa has a lot of stairs, but a great way to burn off some toddler energy!
If you're near Budoni, take advantage of the local night market, bustling with stalls selling crafts and local delicacies. This provides a sensory adventure for children, with vibrant sights and sounds to capture their imagination (although it might start past their bedtime at 8PM!)
These local adventures, combined with Sardinia's natural beauty, offer families a diverse range of activities to enjoy together.