Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean, a place with paradisiacal beaches that have nothing to envy to the Caribbean islands. But its appeal goes beyond the coast, the history that it preserves in its ruins makes Sardinia a perfect place for cultural tourism. If you want to know what to see in Sardinia, in this article we bring you a selection of places not to be missed on the island. Discover them with us!

1. Ruins of Tharros

Tharros was founded by the Phoenicians in the eighth century BC as a port city. It is a must if you visit Sardinia because not only has an incredible historical attraction, but the landscape surrounding the ruins is spectacular.

Located on the seafront, between Cape San Marco and the hill of Su Murru Mannu, you can make the visit alone or with a tour guide who will explain everything about this city.

2. Alghero

This city is located in the north of the island and is a place that cannot be missed on your list of what to see in Sardinia. It is the most populated city and you will probably arrive there by plane as it is home to one of the main airports.

The historic center of the city is beautiful and the facades of the houses along the harbor, painted in bright colors, are a perfect shot. Not to mention the city walls and the narrow cobblestone streets.

3. Anghelu Ruju

This set of archaeological remains is located 10 kilometers from the city of Alghero. It consists of 10 necropolises and 21 houses called fairy houses, built between the 4th and 3rd millennium BC.

The site is beautiful and is one of the places not to be missed when considering what to see in Sardinia. It can be visited all year round, and during the summer there is the possibility to opt for guided tours at night.

4.The Grotto of Neptune

Neptune’s Cave is located in Cape Caccia. It is an impressive cave, full of stalactites and stalagmites. Inside you will also find lakes, including the second largest in Europe.

Neptune’s cave is more than 10 million years old and has a total length of more than one kilometer. You can visit it in groups and with a guide. If you go in the summer, we recommend you to go in time, because the groups are very numerous and it is a very touristy place.

5. Cagliari

Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia. In addition to a charming historical city, you will find a Neolithic site and several Roman and Carthaginian remains among many other attractions.

Among the most important places to visit in Cagliari are the castle of San Michele, located at the top of the city, the archaeological museum or the Roman amphitheater, not to be missed!

6. The Archaeological Museum

As we mentioned in the previous point, Cagliari is home to one of the most important museums in Sardinia. The National Archaeological Museum holds a collection of handicrafts from all the civilizations that have crossed the island throughout history.

It is a highly recommended visit if you want to soak up all the culture that has made Sardinia what it is today. We highly recommend it.

7. Roman Amphitheater of Cagliari

This is a building that was built in the second century AD and originally held a total of 10,000 spectators. In fact, it was here that the famous gladiator fights took place, among other shows.

We recommend that you visit it because it is very well preserved and sometimes some concerts and other events still take place there. So if you have this opportunity, don’t miss it.

There you go! You now know 7 of the must-sees of Sardinia! What is your favorite place in the world? Share a bit on it in the comments below!