3Sardinia

If your idea of Italy involves turquoise water and spectacular beaches, Sardinia belongs high on your list.

The island is famous for its remarkably clear sea, white-sand beaches and rugged Mediterranean landscapes. The Costa Smeralda is known for luxury resorts and glamorous coastal scenery, while other parts of Sardinia offer quieter beaches and traditional villages.

Sardinia is also much more than a beach destination. Ancient nuraghi, dramatic mountains and distinctive local traditions reveal an island with a fascinating identity of its own.

For travelers seeking spectacular scenery with a Mediterranean atmosphere, Sardinia can feel like an entirely different country within Italy.