Sardinia, or Sardegna in Italian, is Italy's second largest island in the Mediterranean and one of its 20 regions. It is located 116 miles west of the coast of central Italy, and is situated right below Corsica, a large island belonging to France. Although it has a similar area to Sicily, Sardinia has only 1.5 million inhabitants compared to Sicily's 5 million, and is sparsely populated. The majority of Sardinians reside in four major urban areas: Cagliari, Sassari, Olbia, and Nuoro.

Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, is the island's largest city in terms of inhabitants. Perched on a hilltop, the city overlooks the Mediterranean and boasts the main airport. The other two airports are located in Alghero, on the northwestern coast, and in Olbia, the main town of the famous Costa Smeralda. Sassari, the second largest city, is located in the north of the island and is close to the more well-known Alghero.

Sardinia is a paradise for sunseekers, boasting golden sand beaches, flashy resorts, quiet corners, and marine parks suitable for snorkelling and scuba-diving. The coastline is exotic in look and feel, with waters swirling with shades of indigo and coral sunsets streaking across the sky. Pink flamingos nest in salty lagoons, adding to the island's charm.

The island's interior, however, is mostly uninhabited, with the exception of the rugged Barbagia region. It offers ample opportunities for hiking, outdoor activities, and gastronomic experiences at agriturismi, vineyards, farms, and local artisan producers all over the island. Whether you come for the beaches or stay for everything else, Sardinia has something for every type of traveler.