Casa del Lido

While a vacation in Italy is all about culture, good food, and incredible natural surroundings and a holiday in Sardinia, in particular, is all about amazing beaches and the uniquely Sardinian heritage and way of life, there is always much more to any destination than its most obvious and famous attractions. For example, there are plenty of fun adventures, theme parks, and kid-friendly activities that can be enjoyed all over Italy and that often fly under the radar of those who are focused on the country's more well-known attributes. If you have found a villa in Sardinia, are spending time exploring this magical part of Italy, and are looking for attractions that are a little less obvious, a lot of fun, and perfect for kids (and the young at heart) then an afternoon splashing around and playing at Splash Aquapark is just the thing!

If you’re spending a sunny Italian vacation on the scenic island and region of Sardinia then be sure to visit the town of Alghero in the northwest area of the island.

Alghero has been in existence since pre-historic times due to its strategic position on the coast.

The Nuraghe civilisation once lived in Alghero and the surrounding area from around 1500BC and has left numerous monuments of their presence for tourists to explore.

There are many superb sights to see in Alghero so why not start the day with a refreshing walk along the Catalan city walls which were constructed in the 16th century. Then head inwards to Alghero’s historic centre and its beautifully built cathedral.

If you have found a villa in Sardinia and are exploring the island, then there is one attraction that anyone will say not to miss: Neptune's Grotto. This magical natural gem is an incredible sight and a must-see. One of the largest and most famous marine caves in the country, it is located near the town of Alghero in the Porto Conte Park and can be reached via the 656 steps of the Escala del Cabirol (Steps of the Roe Deer) that cling to the western side of Capo Caccia or by boat from the Port of Alghero or the dock of Cala Dragunara in Porto Conte. Entrance by sea is easier but scaling the steps is, in its own right, an amazing experience that takes in extraordinary views over the water but not recommended for children or those who are less physical able.

Sassari is Sardinia's sprawling second city; a cultured, bustling university town that can seem a little drab or scruffy at first but which is home to some spectacular surprises.

Once you navigate through the areas of urban sprawl with less personality, you'll find lovely spots to eat and drink, galleries and stores you'll find nowhere else and, at the centre, a historic Old Town that charms.

Medieval alleys, busy piazzas that are alive with the sound of daily life, stunning churches and grand palazzi all await. Once you have found a vacation rental in Sardinia and are planning your itinerary for your trip, be sure to include a visit to Sassari.

The picturesque city of Sassari is the second largest in Sardinia and is home to a wonderful collection of art, culture and historical archives. Beautiful palaces and magnificent old monuments adorn the city, many of which were designed and built faithfully in a neoclassical style. Take memorable photos of the beautiful Fountain of the Rosello, the Piazza d’Italia and Teatro Civico which are three such monuments that were designed this way in Sassari city.

Stay at a stunning vacation villa rental in Sorso, less than ten kilometres from Sassari city which offer fabulous views of the sea! Start the day with a walk up to Monte d’Accoddi which is a prehistoric tourist site above Sassari with an ancient step pyramid design leading up to it. Learn about its history and marvel at the advanced architectural knowledge of the ancient civilisation who built it!

There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Italy and while we have compiled lists of some of our picks for the best among them before, we are always discovering new beaches that take our breath away and set the bar once more. Among these is a beach in Sardinia that really is an extraordinarily lovely place: La Pelosa.

Located 2km from Stintino, a small natural oasis and village on the north-west coast of Sardinia, this beach is the island's most famous stretch of the coast.

From May to September it is in high demand and there is good reason. It is an incredible paradise where calm turquoise waters meet soft powder-white sands and there is plenty to see and do in the area. You can go kayaking, snorkeling, on boat excursions to the Asinara Islands (Donkey Islands), pedal-boating, hiking and much more besides.