Cheap holidays to Costa Smeralda

Your guide to Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda, nestled in the heart of Sardinia, Italy, is renowned for its breathtaking coastline and luxurious resorts. This exclusive region boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic granite cliffs, and a unique blend of natural beauty and high-end glamour. The area's Mediterranean climate offers warm, sunny summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Its geography is characterized by dramatic rocky outcrops and hidden coves.

  • Explore Porto Cervo, the heart of Costa Smeralda, with its charming marina filled with luxury yachts.
  • Discover the stunning beaches like Capriccioli and Grande Pevero, known for their crystal-clear waters and soft sands.
  • Visit the charming village of San Pantaleo, famous for its artisan shops and traditional atmosphere.

Getting around Costa Smeralda is easy with car rentals readily available, or you can use the local bus services for travel between the towns and villages. You can also arrange boat trips to explore the stunning coastline and hidden coves. Prepare for a vacation that seamlessly blends natural beauty with sophisticated luxury.

Ready to experience the magic of Costa Smeralda? Book your flights to Olbia with Opodo and embark on an unforgettable holiday.

Where to stay in Costa Smeralda during your trip

Costa Smeralda in Italy offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to every taste and budget. From luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels, there’s something for everyone. The region’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.


Best places to stay for a couple of days
  • Porto Cervo: This glamorous town offers a wide selection of luxury hotels, designer boutiques and upscale restaurants. It's the heart of Costa Smeralda’s social scene.
  • Porto Rotondo: A charming alternative to Porto Cervo, this town offers a more relaxed atmosphere with stunning waterfront views and a vibrant nightlife.
  • Baja Sardinia: This quieter area is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil getaway. It boasts beautiful beaches, coves and opportunities for watersports.

For budget-conscious travellers, consider exploring accommodation options slightly outside of the main towns. Smaller towns and villages provide charming alternatives with lower prices. Consider exploring local rental options outside the main tourist areas for a more cost-effective stay. You can also take advantage of Opodo's holiday package deals, which can provide significant savings when booking flights and accommodation together.

Foodie's guide in Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of Sardinian traditions and Mediterranean influences. Fresh seafood is a staple, reflecting the region's coastal location and abundant marine life. Local ingredients, such as wild herbs, olives, and cheeses, are used extensively, giving dishes a unique and authentic flavour. The region's cuisine offers a truly unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

From indulging in fresh seafood dishes to savouring local pasta, there is no shortage of culinary delights to experience in Costa Smeralda. The local cuisine is simple yet refined, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to try the fresh seafood, available everywhere from the beachside restaurants to the local markets.

  • Culurgiones: These delicious potato and cheese-filled ravioli are a classic Sardinian dish. They are typically served with a simple tomato sauce or a rich meat ragu.
  • Fregola Sarda: This toasted pasta is unique to Sardinia. It's served with seafood or a variety of rich sauces.
  • Seafood Paella: A great way to enjoy the freshest seafood, this vibrant dish is a Mediterranean favourite and widely available in restaurants around Costa Smeralda.

You can sample these dishes in many fine restaurants in Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo and Baja Sardinia. Alternatively, explore the local markets where you'll find fresh produce and local delicacies. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery while dining.

Culture & Top Events in Costa Smeralda

Adding cultural experiences to your Costa Smeralda itinerary can greatly enrich your trip. By immersing yourself in local traditions, arts, and events, you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the area’s unique character and heritage. Witnessing local celebrations offers unique insights into the region's vibrant spirit.

  • Porto Cervo Wine & Food Festival: This annual event showcases the best of Sardinia’s culinary and winemaking traditions. It typically takes place during the summer months.
  • Rolex Swan Cup: This prestigious sailing regatta attracts competitors and spectators from around the world. It's usually held in the late summer.
  • Porto Cervo Fashion Week: This high-profile fashion event features renowned designers and showcases the latest trends in the luxury fashion world. It typically runs during the summer months.

Always verify the dates of these events before traveling, as schedules are subject to change. If you're travelling during any of these special events, booking flights and accommodations well in advance is advisable, and Opodo can help you find the best deals.

How to save on holidays in Costa Smeralda

Booking a flight and hotel bundle with Opodo offers significant advantages. We offer competitive prices and often run promotions, such as Prime Days, Super Sale, Black Friday, and Travel Tuesday, allowing you to take advantage of fantastic discounts. We also offer personalised customer service to ensure your travel plans go smoothly. For even more savings, consider our Prime membership.

We regularly offer promotions lasting several days, giving you ample opportunity to find great deals on your Costa Smeralda holiday. Visit our website to find the latest offers and plan your dream escape. We are committed to making your travel experience as easy and affordable as possible.

Consider a holiday in Costa Smeralda and book your flights from London to Olbia or flights from Rome to Olbia today.

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