Table of Contents
Airports in Sardinia: Your Comprehensive Guide
Sardinia, an enchanting Italian island, is known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and vibrant culture. To explore its wonders, you’ll need to fly into one of the airports in Sardinia… (unless of course you have a boat or ship, you’re arriving on a ferry or you’re a strong swimmer.)
This comprehensive guide will help you choose the most convenient airport for your trip, understand their services, and learn how to navigate your way around them. It also includes handy tools to book your car hire. Everything you could need really!
Overview of Sardinia’s Airports
There are three primary airports in Sardinia, serving various regions of the island – study them well!
- Cagliari Mario Mameli Airport (CAG) – Located in the southern part of Sardinia
- Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) – Situated in the northwestern region
- Alghero Riviera del Corallo International Airport (AHO) – Serving central and northwestern parts of the island
Each of these airports caters to a different part of Sardinia, making it essential to choose the most suitable one based on your travel plans. Let’s dive deeper into each airport to help you make an informed decision.
Cagliari Mario Mameli Airport (CAG)
Cagliari Mario Mameli Airport is the primary and largest airport in Sardinia. It is an excellent choice for travelers planning to visit the southern part of the island or the city of Cagliari. The airport is well connected to Rome, Milan, and other European cities by regular and low-cost airlines like Ryanair.
Terminal Information
Cagliari Airport has a single terminal building, spread across three floors. The ground floor accommodates arrival services, including a grocery store, cafes, info points, and ticket machines. The second floor is dedicated to departures, housing check-in desks, security checks, boarding gates, and airline ticket offices. The top floor contains administrative offices and the Lost and Found office.
Services and Amenities
Cagliari Airport offers a range of services for passengers, including:
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Lost and Found office
- Airport VIP lounge (accessible to eligible passengers or by paying an entrance fee)
- Fast Track service for expedited security checks
- Restaurants, cafes, and shops
- A library for book lovers
- 24/7 Emergency Room
Transportation to/from Cagliari Mario Mameli Airport
Cagliari Airport is roughly 7 km (4.3 miles) from the city center, and there are various transportation options available:
- Car: A 10-minute drive via the SS130 highway
- Train: Frequent trains connect the airport’s train station with downtown Cagliari in just 7 minutes
- Private Transfer: Book a private transfer service through GetTransfer
- Bus: Buses run between the airport and the city center, though trains are more frequent and faster
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the arrivals area, with fares ranging from €17 during the day to €20 at night
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB)
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is the ideal choice for those planning to visit the northwestern part of Sardinia, including popular destinations like San Teodoro, Costa Smeralda, and La Maddalena Archipelago.
Terminal Information
Olbia Airport is smaller than Cagliari Airport, featuring only one terminal building divided into two floors. The ground floor has check-in counters and boarding gates, while the second floor hosts a small museum showcasing events and exhibitions.
Services and Amenities
Despite its size, Olbia Airport provides several useful services for passengers, such as:
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Info Point and tourist assistance
- Pharmacy
- Lost and Found office
- Cafes, restaurants, and luxury stores
Transportation to/from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport
The airport is just 4 km (2.5 miles) from Olbia’s city centre. Travel options include:
- Car: A short drive via State Road SS91 or SP44
- Bus: City buses (line 2 and line 10) run between the airport and the city center every 20 minutes during the day and every 40 minutes after 8:00 pm
- Taxi: A taxi ride to Olbia’s city center costs approximately €15
- Private Transfer: Book a private transfer service through GetTransfer
Alghero Riviera del Corallo International Airport (AHO)
Alghero Riviera del Corallo International Airport, the smallest of the airports in Sardinia, serves the central and northwestern parts of the island. It is a convenient option for those planning to visit the Riviera del Corallo region.
Terminal Information
Alghero Airport has a single terminal for both arrivals and departures. It features 15 check-in desks and six boarding gates.
Services and Amenities
This small airport offers limited but essential services, including:
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Info Point
- Lost and Found office
- Pharmacy
- Cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops
Transportation to/from Alghero Riviera del Corallo International Airport
The airport is approximately 11 km (less than 7 miles) from Alghero. Transportation options include:
- Car: A 15-minute drive via State Road SS91 or SP44
- Bus: Regular buses connect the airport and the city center, taking around 30 minutes
- Taxi: A taxi ride to Alghero city center costs about €20
- Private Transfer: Book a private transfer service through GetTransfer
In Summary
Choosing the right airport is crucial for a smooth journey to Sardinia. Consider your travel plans, preferred destinations, and available transportation options when selecting the most suitable airport among Cagliari Mario Mameli Airport, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, or Alghero Riviera del Corallo International Airport. By doing so, you’ll ensure a hassle-free arrival and departure, leaving you more time to enjoy the beautiful island of Sardinia.
More Reading
(This is useful to know if you are planning a trip there!)
How to get to Sardinia from Europe?
How to get to Sardinia from the United Kingdom?
How to get to Sardinia from Ireland
