Sardinia vs. Sicily: Which Island Should You Choose for Your Next Holiday?

Sardinia or Sicily?

Beaches & Coastlines

Sardinia is renowned for its unspoiled coastline, boasting over 1,800 km of beaches, turquoise seas, and unique rock formations. The Costa Smeralda, in particular, offers a blend of natural beauty and luxury, with more than 80 beautiful bays and sandy beaches .

Sicily whilst also offering beautiful beaches, is distinguished by its diverse coastal landscapes, from the sandy shores of San Vito Lo Capo to the dramatic cliffs of the Aeolian Islands. The island's beaches are often complemented by historical sites and vibrant local culture.

History & Culture

Sicily  is a treasure trove of history, with influences from Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman civilizations. Highlights include the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the historic heart of Syracuse, Ortigia Island, known for its Greek heritage and Baroque architecture .

Sardinia  offers a unique cultural experience with its ancient Nuragic civilization, evident in sites like Su Nuraxi di Barumini. The island's interior towns provide a glimpse into traditional Sardinian life, with festivals and customs that have been preserved for centuries.

Cuisine & Wine

Sardinian cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and use of local ingredients. Traditional dishes include "porcheddu" (roast suckling pig) and "culurgiones" (stuffed pasta). The island is also known for its robust red wines and unique cheeses .

Sicilian cuisine reflects its diverse cultural history, featuring dishes like "arancini" (rice balls), "caponata" (eggplant stew), and a variety of seafood specialties. The island's wines, such as Nero d'Avola and Marsala, are celebrated worldwide.

Nature & Adventure

Sardinia is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking the Path of 100 Towers, exploring the Gennargentu mountains, and snorkelling in marine reserves.

Sicily  boasts natural wonders like Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, and the Madonie and Nebrodi mountain ranges, which are perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Accommodation & Travel Options

Both islands offer a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to rustic agriturismos. Just Sardinia and Just Sicily provide tailored holiday packages, including multi-centre holidays that combine stays in both islands .

Choose Sardinia if you desire tranquil beaches, unique cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.

Opt for Sicily if you're interested in rich historical sites, diverse cuisine, and vibrant local culture.

Author:  Alison Nurse

After founding Just Sardinia with my husband Huw in 2000, I found myself naturally marketing the company through my love and in depth knowledge of the island. This stemmed from living in Sardinia for a couple of years and wanting to expand the English market to Sardinia which we have successfully done for 25 years with hotels, villas, apartments and rural retreats throughout the island and subsequently exploring the diverse island of Sicily too to offer our customers more choice!