Since you only have 2 days in Sardinia, you’ll need to focus on a specific region to avoid spending all your time traveling. Sardinia is a large island, and trying to see everything in two days is impossible.

Given your current location in Switzerland, I’ll assume you’ll likely fly into Olbia (OLB) in the northeast, or potentially Cagliari (CAG) in the south, as these are the main international gateways. I’ll provide itineraries for both, focusing on the most iconic and accessible “must-see” experiences for a short trip.

Key Recommendation for 2 Days:

Rent a car! Public transport simply won’t cut it for maximizing your time and reaching the best spots. Book it in advance, especially in high season.

Option 1: Northeast Sardinia (Flying into Olbia – OLB)

This option focuses on the famous Costa Smeralda, the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago, and charming towns.

Why the Northeast? Iconic beaches, glamorous atmosphere, and the incredibly beautiful Maddalena islands which are truly “must-see.”

Day 1: Costa Smeralda Glamour & Beaches

• Morning (Arrival & Porto Cervo):
  • Arrive at Olbia (OLB) airport, pick up your rental car.
  • Drive north to the Costa Smeralda. Your first stop could be Porto Cervo, the heart of the Costa Smeralda. Stroll through the elegant marina, admire the superyachts, and browse the luxury boutiques. Even if luxury isn’t your main goal, it’s interesting to see this famous hub.
• Lunch: Grab a pizza or a light seafood lunch in Porto Cervo or nearby.
• Afternoon (Iconic Beaches):
  • Head to some of the Costa Smeralda’s most beautiful beaches. Spiaggia del Principe (Prince’s Beach) is incredibly picturesque, with its fine sand and clear water. Capriccioli Beach is another stunning option, often less crowded than others.
  • Spend your afternoon relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
• Evening (Cannigione or Palau):
  • Drive to Cannigione or Palau. These towns are less glitzy than Porto Cervo, but still offer good dining options and are perfectly located for your Day 2 trip to La Maddalena. They tend to be more affordable for accommodation too.
  • Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: La Maddalena Archipelago & Departure

• Morning (Boat Tour to La Maddalena):
  • This is the absolute must-do for the northeast. Head to the port in Palau.
  • Take a full-day boat tour (usually 6-8 hours) of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park. These tours visit several islands like Spargi (with its stunning Cala Corsara and Cala Granara), Santa Maria, and often cruise past Budelli (famous for its protected Pink Beach). You’ll have opportunities to swim and snorkel in incredibly clear, turquoise waters.
  • Book this tour in advance, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.
• Late Afternoon:
  • The boat tour usually returns to Palau in the late afternoon.
  • Depending on your flight time, you can either head straight back to Olbia airport (approx. 45-minute drive from Palau) or grab a quick farewell dinner in Palau.
• Evening:
  • Depart from Olbia (OLB) airport.

Option 2: South Sardinia (Flying into Cagliari – CAG)

This option focuses on the vibrant capital city, ancient ruins, and stunning southern beaches.

Why the South? A mix of city life, history (ancient ruins), and beautiful, less-crowded beaches compared to the Costa Smeralda.

Day 1: Cagliari & Ancient Nora

• Morning (Arrival & Cagliari Exploration):
  • Arrive at Cagliari (CAG) airport, pick up your rental car.
  • Drive into Cagliari. Spend your morning exploring the historic Castello district. Wander its narrow streets, visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and enjoy panoramic views from its ramparts.
  • Don’t miss a stroll through the bustling San Benedetto Market to soak in local life and see fresh produce and seafood.
• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Sardinian lunch in Cagliari.
• Afternoon (Ancient Nora & Beaches):
  • Drive south to the Nora Archaeological Area (approx. 45-60 minutes from Cagliari, near Pula). This ancient Phoenician, Punic, and Roman city is beautifully set by the sea. Explore the Roman theater, bathhouses, and mosaics with the Mediterranean as a backdrop.
  • Nearby, you can relax at Nora Beach or head to one of the stunning beaches along the Costa del Sud, such as Spiaggia di Su Giudeu or Cala Cipolla (both near Chia).
• Evening (Chia or Pula):
  • Stay in the Chia/Pula area. These resort towns offer various dining options, from casual pizzerias to more upscale seafood restaurants.

Day 2: Stunning Southern Coast & Nuraghe

• Morning (Southern Beaches & Coastal Drive):
  • Start your day with more beach time on the beautiful southern coast. Cala Tuerredda is often cited as one of Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters and a backdrop of green hills.
  • Enjoy a scenic drive along the SP71 (Costa del Sud), admiring the dramatic coastline.
• Lunch: Grab a quick lunch at a beach kiosk or a small restaurant along the coast.
• Afternoon (Nuraghe Su Nuraxi):
  • Drive inland (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes from Chia) to Su Nuraxi di Barumini (UNESCO World Heritage Site). This is the most important and well-preserved nuragic complex in Sardinia. Take a guided tour to understand these mysterious Bronze Age structures unique to the island. This is a crucial historical “must-see.”
• Late Afternoon:
  • Drive back towards Cagliari airport (approx. 1 hour).
• Evening:
  • Depart from Cagliari (CAG) airport.

Important Considerations for Your 2-Day Trip:

• Pace: These itineraries are packed. Be prepared for a fast pace to see the highlights. If you prefer to relax more, you might need to cut one or two activities.
• Booking: Book your rental car and any boat tours (especially for La Maddalena) well in advance, particularly if traveling during peak season.
• Flexibility: Weather can impact boat tours (especially the Blue Grotto or La Maddalena). Have a backup plan (e.g., exploring more inland towns, visiting museums).
• Dining: Embrace spontaneous dining at local trattorias. Ask locals for recommendations!

Enjoy your quick but memorable dive into the beauty of Sardinia!