How to get to Sardinia from Spain

If you are planning a trip to Sardinia from Spain, you are probably wondering what is the best way to get there You have two main options: fly or travel in ferry from Barcelona The plane is the fastest and most economical option, while the ferry is ideal if you want to bring your car and enjoy a more relaxing trip.

In this guide we tell you How to travel to Sardinia from Madrid, Barcelona, and other Spanish cities, which airlines operate direct flights, how long the ferry takes, and which option is best for your type of trip. Let's go!

✈️ Options for traveling to Sardinia from Spain

• The plane It is the fastest and most convenient way. In a few 2 hours You can stay on the island, and there are direct flights from several Spanish cities. Plus, if you book in advance, it's the most economical option.
• The ferry It is an interesting alternative if you want to bring your own car or if you prefer to avoid the plane. The most direct route is from Barcelona to Porto Torres, with a crossing of about 12-14 hours.

If, in addition to knowing how to get there, you want practical information about the island, we recommend taking a look at these Things you should know before traveling to Sardinia.

🚀 How to get to Sardinia by plane

The quickest and easiest way to travel to Sardinia from Spain is by plane. There are direct flights from several cities, and if you book early, you can find round-trip tickets for less than €100 in the low season.

Sardinia Airports: Where to Fly?

Sardinia has three main airports, located in different areas of the island. Depending on the city you're flying to, it will be more convenient to visit some areas or others:

• Cagliari-Elmas Airport (CAG) → Located in the south, it's the largest on the island. Ideal if you're planning to visit Cagliari, Villasimius, and southern Sardinia.
• Olbia-Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) → In the northeast of the island, near the Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena, and San Teodoro. This is the best option if your trip focuses on the island's most famous beaches.
• Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) → In northwest Sardinia, near Alghero, Stintino, and Bosa. Perfect for exploring this Catalan-influenced part of the island.

If you still haven't decided which part of the island you want to visit, you can take a look at our Sardinia route in 7 days to give you an idea of the best places.

Direct flights from Spain to Sardinia

Currently, there are Direct flights to Sardinia from Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville, although in summer more routes are also usually added from other cities.

✈️ Madrid - Sardinia

From Madrid, there are no direct flights all year round, but in high season you can find options to Cagliari and Olbia with airlines such as Ryanair and Iberia If you travel in winter, you'll have to stop over in Rome or Milan.

✈️ Barcelona - Sardinia

Barcelona is the Spanish city with the most direct connections. You can fly to all three Sardinian airports with Ryanair, Vueling and Iberia, and there are usually flights almost every day.

✈️ Other cities with flights to Sardinia

• Valencia - Cagliari (Vueling, only in summer).
• Seville - Cagliari (Ryanair, only in high season).

If there are no direct flights from your city, the best option is to fly to Rome or Milan and from there take a connecting flight.

Airlines and approximate prices

The main airlines that fly from Spain to Sardinia are Ryanair, Vueling, Iberia and Volotea Prices vary by season:

• Low season (October-May) → From 30-50€ round trip if you book in advance.
• Mid-season (June and September) → Between 70-120€ round trip.
• High season (July and August) → From 150€, and it can be quite expensive if you don't book in advance.

Tips for finding cheap flights

If you want to save on your plane ticket to Sardinia, here are some tips:

• Travel outside of July and August In May, June, or September, prices are much lower.
• Avoid weekends, since flights are usually more expensive.
• Check nearby airports Sometimes flying to Olbia can be cheaper than to Cagliari, or vice versa.
• Book in advance Cheap flights disappear quickly, especially during peak season.

If, in addition to finding a cheap flight, you want to optimize your stay on the island, we recommend reading our guide on where to stay in Sardinia, to choose the best area according to your itinerary.

🚢 How to travel to Sardinia by ferry from Spain

If you want to bring your own car or simply prefer a different experience, traveling by ferry to Sardinia from Spain is an interesting option. Although the journey is longer than by plane, the ferry allows you to move around the island freely without having to rent a vehicle.

Ferry route from Barcelona to Sardinia

Currently, the only direct ferry connection between Spain and Sardinia is the Barcelona - Porto Torres route, operated by Grimaldi Lines.

• Duration: Between 12 and 2 pm, depending on the time and sea conditions.
• Frequency: 5 weekly departures in summer, at least 1 in winter.
• Schedule Generally, ferries depart at night, allowing you to sleep on board and make the most of the following day.

Porto Torres is in the northern Sardinia, close to destinations such as Alghero, Stintino and La Maddalena If you're planning to explore the Costa Smeralda, Olbia, or the south of the island, you'll have to drive a few hours from the port.

If you want information about what to see in the area, you can consult our guide on What to see in Alghero in one day o what to see in La Maddalena.

Other ferry options from Spain to Italy and connection to Sardinia

If you cannot find availability on the direct ferry from Barcelona, another alternative is to travel first to Italy and then take a second ferry to Sardinia.

The main routes from Italy to Sardinia are:

• From Genoa, Livorno or Civitavecchia → Ferries to Olbia, Porto Torres and Cagliari with companies such as Moby, Tirrenia or Corsica Ferries.
• From Naples or Palermo → Ferries to Cagliari, more useful if you are coming from southern Italy.

If you are planning a longest trip through Italy This option can be interesting, as it allows you to visit several cities before arriving on the island.

Is it worth traveling by ferry? Advantages and disadvantages

If you have little time If you're planning a short getaway, flying is a better option. However, if you're traveling with your own vehicle and have more time to explore the island, the ferry may be an interesting option.

Ferry fares and cabin options

Ferry prices vary depending on the season and the type of ticket you choose:

• Standard seat → The cheapest option, although less comfortable for long trips.
• Private cabin → Perfect for sleeping well if you travel at night.
• Cabin with private bathroom → More expensive, but ideal if you're looking for comfort.
• Vehicle transport → The price depends on the size of the car or motorcycle.

If you travel in July or August, it is advisable to book with several months in advance, as the cheapest tickets sell out quickly.

🏝️ Tips for choosing between plane or ferry

Now that you know the two main options for traveling to Sardinia from Spain, which is best for your trip? The answer depends on several factors, such as time available, budget, and your plans on the island.

When is the best time to fly?

Choose this option if:

• You have only a few days and you want to make the most of your time.
• You are looking for the most economical option.
• You don't need to bring your own car.

The plane is the fastest way to get to Sardinia. In about 2 hours You can be on the island, and if you book in advance, tickets can cost less than €100 round trip.

If you want more information on how to organize your trip once on the island, we recommend our guide on how to get around Sardinia.

When is the best time to take the ferry?

The ferry is a good option if:

• You want to bring your own car, motorcycle or motorhome.
• You are looking for a more relaxing travel experience.
• You plan to be in Sardinia for more than a week.
• You are traveling with a lot of luggage or with pets.

The great advantage of the ferry is that you save on car rental on the island, which can offset the price of the ticket. However, the trip is long and usually more expensive than a flight.

If you decide on this option, it may be interesting to divide your stay between different areas of the island. To do so, we recommend taking a look at our guide on where to stay in Sardinia, with recommendations based on your itinerary.

Our recommendation

If you go less than a week, the best thing is to fly. That way you can make the most of your time and not waste a whole day on the journey. If you go 10 days or more and you want to explore the island thoroughly, the ferry can be an interesting option, especially if you are traveling from Barcelona to Porto Torres and your route focuses on the north of the island.

❓ Frequently asked questions about traveling to Sardinia from Spain

What is the best way to get to Sardinia?

It depends on time and budget. If you're traveling for a few days, flying is the most practical option. If you want to bring your car or take a longer trip, the ferry from Barcelona is an interesting option.

How long does the ferry from Spain to Sardinia take?

The direct ferry from Barcelona to Porto Torres takes between 12 and 2 pm, depending on the time and sea conditions.

Where do you fly to Sardinia?

You can fly to three airports on the island:

• Cagliari (CAG) → Best option if you are going to the south of the island.
• Olbia (OLB) → Ideal for the Emerald Coast and the Northeast.
• Alghero (AHO) → Perfect if you want to explore the northwest.

When is the cheapest time to travel to Sardinia?

Flights are usually cheaper in low and mid season (October to May). In summer, prices rise, especially in July and August.

To find the best prices, it is advisable to book at least 2-3 months in advance and avoid weekends.

Can I take my car on the ferry?

Yes, the Barcelona-Porto Torres ferry allows cars, motorcycles, motorhomes, and bicycles. However, the price varies depending on the size of the vehicle and the season.

Which airports have the best connections within the island?

The Cagliari Airport It's the largest airport and has the most domestic and international flights. From there, you can fly to other parts of Italy, such as Rome, Milan, or Naples.

Is it possible to bring pets on ferries to Sardinia?

Yes, ferry companies allow pets to travel. Some offer special cabins for dogs or cats, while others require pets to be transported in a carrier or designated areas.

What services does Grimaldi Lines offer on its ferries?

The ferries of Grimaldi Lines They have:

• Private cabins and reclining seats.
• Restaurants and cafeterias on board.
• Pet areas.
• Entertainment spaces.

Are there daytime ferry options from Spain to Sardinia?

No, the ferry from Barcelona to Porto Torres usually operates at night. However, if you take a ferry from Continental Italy, yes you will find daytime options.

How to get to Sardinia from Mallorca?

From Mallorca there is no direct ferry to Sardinia, so the best option is to fly. In summer, Vueling usually operates direct flights from Palma de Mallorca (PMI) to Olbia (OLB), although availability varies by season.

If you can't find a direct flight, the fastest alternative is to do stopover in Barcelona and from there take a flight to Cagliari, Olbia or Alghero. Another option is to fly to Rome or Milan and take a connecting flight with airlines such as Ryanair or ITA Airways.

As for the ferry, you could travel first from Mallorca to Barcelona and then take the ferry from Barcelona to Porto Torres, but the journey takes quite a while and is not usually the most practical option.

If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement How to get to Sardinia from Spain you can visit our posts about Sardinia.