However, let me be clear: while Sardinia isn't the most expensive place to visit, you want to be realistic. You can't expect to visit the island on a €5 per day budget – that simply won't happen, and not even if you travel in the off season and only stick to local places.

Sardinia has a reputation for being an "exclusive" destination, but its cost depends entirely on where and when you visit. The Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) in the northeast is one of the most expensive places in Europe, catering to celebrities with luxury resorts and beach clubs where a single sunbed can cost over €100. However, outside of this specific enclave, Sardinia offers excellent value compared to other Mediterranean islands like Ibiza or Mykonos. In the capital city of Cagliari or the medieval town of Alghero, you can find mid-range hotels for €80–€150 and enjoy a high-quality pasta meal for €12–€18. To keep costs down, travelers are advised to visit in the "shoulder" seasons of June or September; in July and August, prices across the entire island can double as local Italians flock to the coast. While you definitely need to rent a car to see the best beaches—which adds to the cost—much of the island’s natural beauty and hiking trails are free to explore.