Sardinia Car Rentals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top destinations to rent a car in Sardinia

A sunny beach with people sunbathing, swimming, and playing.
CarsCars

Olbia

Olbia

What you need to know for your Sardinia car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Sardinia

Renting a car in Sardinia is a popular choice for travelers looking to explore the region's stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and scenic views at their own pace. With a rental car, you have the freedom to visit key attractions such as La Pelosa Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline, and the Port of Golfo Aranci, a marina perfect for outdoor activities. You can also enjoy the picturesque Porto Flavia bay, which offers breathtaking scenery.

A rental car provides convenience for families and groups, allowing for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. You can explore vibrant cities like Olbia, where you can visit the National Archaeological Museum and enjoy Pittulongu Beach, or Arzachena, home to the stunning beaches of Marina di Porto Cervo and Capriccioli Beach. Cagliari, with its historic sites like Cagliari Cathedral and Piazza Yenne, is also easily accessible. Overall, renting a car in Sardinia enhances your travel experience by making it easier to discover the region’s diverse attractions and beautiful landscapes.

Most popular car rentals in Sardinia

  • Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. Renting a midsize vehicle allows you to enjoy the spaciousness needed for luggage and passengers, ensuring a comfortable travel experience as you explore the beautiful attractions of Sardinia at your own pace.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the economy car can accommodate 5 travelers and carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is not only budget-friendly but also offers the flexibility you need for navigating Sardinia’s winding roads. With an economy car, you can explore the island while keeping your travel costs low.
  • Compact: The compact car option is versatile, fitting 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it suitable for solo adventurers, couples, and families alike. A compact car is a great choice if you want a balance between size and fuel efficiency, allowing you to make the most of your journey through Sardinia while managing your luggage easily.

Where to stay in Sardinia

  • Olbia: Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor scenery, Olbia offers travelers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Key attractions include Pittulongu Beach, suitable for beach vacations, and Portisco Marina, perfect for outdoor activities. The National Archaeological Museum of Olbia caters to culture enthusiasts. There are also several nearby options for dining, including restaurants and wineries, making it a lively area for food lovers.
  • Cagliari: As the capital of Sardinia, Cagliari is rich in culture and outdoor experiences. Highlights include the historic Cagliari Cathedral and the vibrant Piazza Yenne, both ideal for those interested in the city's cultural heritage. The International Trade Fair of Sardinia offers a unique venue for family-friendly events. Cagliari’s proximity to beautiful beaches and various dining options, including wineries, enhances its appeal as a vibrant destination.
  • Arzachena: Nestled in scenic landscapes, Arzachena is an excellent choice for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Notable spots include Marina di Porto Cervo, a great marina for adventure seekers, and the beautiful Principe Beach and Capriccioli Beach, ideal for relaxing by the sea. The area is also home to a variety of restaurants and wineries, providing plenty of options for dining after a day of exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Sardinia

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, filters on Expedia can help you discover the best vehicle for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. Renters over 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just make sure to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance during your Expedia booking is a simple process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Sardinia

The best value period to rent a car in Sardinia is February, as demand is low and prices tend to be more affordable. January and February are typically quieter months, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Following this, March offers average demand and moderately low prices, while April and May maintain steady demand and average rates. In contrast, August sees the highest demand and rental prices, making it the most expensive month for car rentals. July also experiences high demand and moderately high prices.

Find Sardinia Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Sardinia car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Sardinia, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Sardinia offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Sardinia car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Sardinia to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Sardinia airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Sardinia rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Sardinia airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Sardinia?
You can find cheap car rentals in Sardinia from $11 a day with Hertz's compact 4-5 door cars. The cheapest car rentals for exploring Sardinia start from around $14 a day, picked up at the region's main gateway, Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Olbia and Alghero, where rates can start from $11 a day if you pick up in Olbia, or $11 a day in Alghero. Suppliers such as Budget, Avis, and Noleggiare operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Sardinia.
What are the best car rentals in Sardinia?
Car rentals across Sardinia offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Europcar, and Noleggiare, broadly available in the region's main cities — Olbia, Alghero, and San Teodoro. The most common car classes include:
  • Fullsize elite SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
  • Economy SUV
  • Economy 4-5 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For families or groups, an SUV offers more space, while a compact car is ideal for solo travelers navigating city streets. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Sardinia.

What are the best car rental companies in Sardinia?
For car rentals across Sardinia, well-rated providers like Sixt, Europcar, and Avis offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Olbia, Alghero, and San Teodoro. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) for exploring Sardinia?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) for exploring Sardinia. Providers including Sixt, Europcar, and Noleggiare operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day for a fullsize elite SUV. Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Olbia to Alghero.
Can I rent a car one-way in Sardinia?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Sardinia — pick up in one city, such as Olbia, and drop-off in another, like Alghero, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Europcar offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Sardinia?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Sardinia, including in Olbia and Alghero. Europcar offers hybrid plug-in options from $11 a day, and Sixt provides hybrid options from $14 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Sardinia?
For luxury car rentals across Sardinia, Sixt offers fullsize elite SUV cars from $14 a day (and economy elite convertible from $55), while Europcar and Avis add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Olbia and Alghero. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Sardinia.
What are the best car rentals in Sardinia for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Sardinia, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Olbia to Alghero:
  • Sixt: fullsize elite SUV from $14 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
  • Noleggiare: fullsize SUV from $29 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
  • Budget: midsize elite SUV from $13 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Sardinia.

What are the best car rentals in Sardinia for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Sardinia for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Olbia and Alghero:
  • Economy car, from $11 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Sardinia.

What are the best car rentals in Sardinia for couples?
The best car rentals in Sardinia for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Olbia and Alghero:
  • Midsize car, from $12 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $21 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider an economy elite convertible from Sixt, from $55 a day — fits up to 2 large suitcases — for scenic drives around Sardinia. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Sardinia.

What are the closest airports to Sardinia for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Sardinia offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB)
  • Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO)
These give travelers flexible arrival options close to where they need to be in the region. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Sardinia by rental car?
From Sardinia, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Olbia hub include:
  • Olbia Seafront, approximately 1 mile away
  • Maria Pia Beach, Alghero, approximately 3 miles away
  • Punta Negra Beach, Alghero, approximately 4 miles away
Add activities such as the Olbia: Gallura Winery Guided Tour with Tasting. With cities like Alghero also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Sardinia.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Sardinia?
In Sardinia, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Sardinia?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Sardinia. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Sardinia?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Sardinia?
Budget car rental in Sardinia can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Sardinia?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Sardinia. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Sardinia car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Sardinia?
To rent a car in Sardinia, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Sardinia car rental?
If you need to cancel your Sardinia car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation