What are the ports in Sardinia?
Find them all in our guide!🔍
Are you planning a ferry trip to Sardinia, but don't know which port to choose? We’ve got you covered! On this Ferryhopper guide, you'll find out all about the ports in Sardinia and how to get there by ferry. You’ll also discover the main routes, ticket prices and plenty of tips for a smooth and stress-free trip.
Sardinia has 7 main ports: Olbia, Cagliari, Porto Torres, Arbatax, Golfo Aranci, Santa Teresa Gallura, and Palau. Most of these ports are located along the northern coast of the island, a popular area perfect for exploring the stunning beaches of Gallura and the Costa Smeralda. Meanwhile, Arbatax sits on the eastern coast in the island's center, and Cagliari dominates the southern region.
Most Sardinian ports are connected year-round to Italian mainland cities like Livorno, Genoa, Rome, Naples, and Palermo. During the high season, there are also departures from the Tuscan port of Piombino. Adventurous travelers can even extend their journey by ferry from Sardinia to France, Corsica or Spain!
Find the port that best suits your travel plans and book your ferry tickets to Sardinia on Ferryhopper!
- Port of Olbia
- Port of Cagliari
- Port of Porto Torres
- Port of Golfo Aranci
- Port of Arbatax
- Port of Santa Teresa Gallura
- Port of Palau
Cagliari's historic buildings overlooking the port
The Ports of Sardinia
Sardinia is home to a network of well-connected ports, making it easy to access the island from various destinations across the Mediterranean. Each port offers unique advantages depending on your travel plans, whether you’re exploring the island’s famous beaches, historic cities or hidden coastal gems. So, keep on reading to find out all about Sardinia’s ports and choose the one that best suits your needs on Ferryhopper!
1. Port of Olbia
Olbia is one of the most important ports in Sardinia, ideal for travelers heading to the island's northeast coast. It is particularly popular with visitors to the Costa Smeralda, known for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant nightlife. Located just minutes from Olbia’s city center and about 15 km from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, the port is highly accessible.
Olbia is connected to several ports on the Italian peninsula, including Rome (Civitavecchia), Livorno, Genoa, and Piombino. Ferry routes to Olbia, operated by Grimaldi Lines, Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia, and Moby Lines, include both annual and seasonal crossings. Travel times range from 5 to 12.5 hours, depending on the route, with ticket prices starting around €20.
Upon arriving in Olbia, you can explore its charming historic center or reach beautiful beaches such as Li Cuncheddi and Le Saline in just a few minutes. Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts can venture along scenic trails leading to the village of Berchiddeddu.
The port is easily accessible by bus (lines 2, 9 and 10) or by taxi, with ferry departures located at the Isola Bianca Maritime Station.
Here are all the ferry routes to Olbia from mainland Italy:
Check out all ferry departures to/from Olbia for the upcoming week and plan your trip on Ferryhopper!
Tip: Olbia is a great starting point for a camper vacation in Sardinia. Check out our tips for an unforgettable on-the-road adventure!
2. Port of Cagliari
Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, especially for travelers looking to explore the island’s southern coast. The port is connected year-round to Rome, Naples and Palermo (Sicily) by Grimaldi Lines ferries. Crossings take between 12 and 15 hours, depending on the route, with tickets starting at approximately €40.
Currently, there are no direct ferry connections to Cagliari from northern Italy. If you want to depart from ports further north than Rome (Civitavecchia), we recommend either embarking or renting a vehicle and continuing your journey to Cagliari from the Sardinian ports of Olbia, Porto Torres or Golfo Aranci.
The port of Cagliari is divided into 2 areas: the old port on Via Roma, close to the city center, and the industrial port of Giorgino. Ferries depart from various piers in the Via Roma area. The port is located about 4 km from the city center and just a 10-minute drive from the train station. You can also reach Cagliari Elmas Airport by train in less than 30 minutes.
Cagliari offers a variety of attractions, including its scenic seafront promenade, the Poetto beach, the Bastione di Saint Remy, and the famous Sella del Diavolo. The city is also a good starting point for visiting the beautiful beaches of southern Sardinia, such as Porto Giunco in Villasimius and Su Giudeu in Chia Bay - ideal spots for a relaxing day by the sea.
Discover more about ferry routes to Cagliari:
Tip: if you’re in Cagliari between April 25 and May 1, don’t miss the Fiera Campionari, an annual event that celebrates Sardinia’s traditions and products!
3. Port of Porto Torres
Located in northwestern Sardinia, Porto Torres is the island’s largest port. It serves as a key arrival point for ferries from Italy (Genoa and Rome), Spain (Barcelona), France (Nice and Toulon), and Corsica (Ajaccio).
Ferry routes are operated by Grimaldi Lines, Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia, and Corsica Ferries, offering up to 30 weekly connections. Some routes are available year-round, while others are seasonal or occasional. Crossings last from 5 to 18 hours, depending on the itinerary, and prices start at €25.
Porto Torres is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the natural beauty of the Asinara National Park, a stunning 16 km-long island. The town itself, located very close to the port, is charming, with its historic center and beautiful waterfront.
Here are the main ferry routes between Porto Torres and ports in Italy, France, Corsica, and Spain:
- Rome (Civitavecchia) - Porto Torres
- Genoa - Porto Torres
- Toulon - Porto Torres
- Nice - Porto Torres
- Porto Torres - Porto Vecchio
- Barcelona - Porto Torres
Check all ferry departures to/from Porto Torres for more info on schedules and tickets.
Sunset light casting a warm glow over Porto Torres
4. Port of Golfo Aranci, Sardinia
The port of Golfo Aranci is located on the northeastern tip of Sardinia, just a few kilometers from Olbia and the Costa Smeralda. The port area is easily accessible from the train station and the city center.
You can reach Golfo Aranci from the Italian mainland ports of Livorno, Piombino and Genoa by Moby Lines ferries. Some routes are seasonal, while others operate year-round. Crossings range from 6 to 15 hours, depending on the departure port, with tickets starting at €18.
Golfo Aranci is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches, all within walking distance of each other. Highlights include Spiaggia Bianca, perfect for snorkeling, and Cala Moresca, a pristine cove near the Isolotto di Figarolo.
Ferries from Golfo Aranci also depart for the port of Bastia, Corsica. This route runs year-round with 1 weekly crossing that takes approximately 6 hours, with tickets starting at €29.
Here are the ferry routes between Golfo Aranci, mainland Italy and Corsica:
Check all ferry departures to/from Golfo Aranci and start planning your dream seaside getaway today!
5. Port of Arbatax
Arbatax is located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, in the picturesque region of Ogliastra. Grimaldi Lines offers annual sailings to the port of Arbatax from Civitavecchia, with departures on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The crossing takes approximately 9 hours and ticket prices start at €40.
The port is conveniently situated near the town center and within walking distance of the bus stop connecting to the nearby city of Tortolì. Upon arrival, visitors can immediately admire the Saracen Tower and the striking Rocce Rosse, spectacular red rock formations emerging from the sea. From the port of Arbatax, you can also embark on day trips to explore the stunning coves of the Gulf of Orosei by boat.
The entire Arbatax area is a succession of breathtaking beaches and hidden coves - a true paradise for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts!
6. Port of Santa Teresa Gallura
Located at the northernmost tip of Sardinia, the port of Santa Teresa Gallura is an excellent departure point for reaching Corsica. In fact, ferries operated by Moby Lines and Ichnusa Lines arrive at the port of Bonifacio in just 50 minutes! The Santa Teresa Gallura - Bonifacio ferry route offers 7 daily crossings year-round, with ticket prices starting at €17.
Santa Teresa Gallura does not have direct ferry connections to other Italian cities, but it is easily accessible by car or bus from the ports of Olbia, Golfo Aranci and Porto Torres. Once you arrive, you can explore the coves and hiking trails of Capo Testa, one of Sardinia’s most picturesque sites.
Useful info: the port is very small and you cannot access it by car. However, you can leave your vehicle in the free parking area located just before the tunnel and walk to the port in a few minutes.
7. Port of Palau
Palau is the most convenient port for day trips to La Maddalena, located on the northeastern coast of Sardinia, right in the town center.
The ferry connection between La Maddalena port and Palau runs year-round and is operated by Maddalena Lines, Delcomar and Ensamar. Departures are very frequent, allowing you to reach the Cala Gavetta port in La Maddalena in just 15-20 minutes! Tickets start at €7.
Useful info: currently, there are no direct ferry connections between Palau and mainland Italy. However, it is well-connected to other Sardinian ports - the nearest being Olbia and Golfo Aranci, approximately 40 km away. From these ports, you can reach Palau by car, train or ARST buses.
The charming harbor of Palau, the gateway to the stunning La Maddalena archipelago
Useful tips for your trip to Sardinia
- During the high season, Italian ports can become quite crowded. We recommend arriving well in advance, especially if you are traveling with a vehicle.
- Pets are welcome on all ferries to Sardinia. Simply include them in your booking and pay an additional fee.
- Many ferry crossings to Sardinia are overnight, so booking a cabin is recommended for a more comfortable journey.
- Ferry companies often have limited-time offers or fixed discounts for passengers. There are usually reduced fares for children and residents of Sardinia. Check out all current offers on Ferryhopper.
- Visit our page on ferries to Sardinia for more detailed info on routes, schedules and ferry operators.
- Sardinia deserves at least a week to fully explore, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can experience its highlights in less time. Read our guide on what to do in Sardinia in 3 days.
Book cheap ferry tickets to Sardinian ports
Ready to plan your Sardinian adventure? Explore our Map of Ferries to find the perfect route for your Sardinian holiday. Discover the ports in Sardinia, choose the one that best fits your travel plans and book your ferry tickets now on the Ferryhopper App or our website with no hidden fees!
