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Find low car rental prices in Sardinia with Road Genius. Find live rates of SUVs, compact cars, minivans and make reservations with no booking fees. Compare car rental deals from major brands at Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero airports, plus city and port locations across the island. Book early for July and August, especially for automatics, check ZTL rules in city centers and note that non-EU license holders need an International Driving Permit.
| Location Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Airports (Cagliari, Olbia, Alghero) | • Immediate vehicle access upon arrival • All major car rental companies present • Wider vehicle selection |
• Airport surcharges (approximately 15-18%) • Busy during peak flight arrivals • Limited offers during high season |
| City Locations | • No airport fees • Often walking distance from hotels • May offer special local promotions |
• Limited vehicle selection • Limited opening hours • May need transport to reach |
| Port Locations | • Convenient for ferry arrivals • A short walk from the ship • Good for island-hoppers |
• Fewer car rental companies available • Higher rates than airports in some cases • Limited after-hours service |
On average, car rentals in Baja Sardinia cost around €106 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €33 per day.
Compare pickup spots and brands. Check airport vs city vs port locations in Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero. Airports often add a 15-18% surcharge, while city offices can be cheaper if their hours work for you.
Time your trip smartly. Shoulder season (May-June, September) is typically 30-40% cheaper, and October-April even more. For July-August, book 3-4 months ahead to lock better rates and availability.
Use weekly pricing. Booking 7+ days often drops the daily rate. Test different pickup/return times to hit a full week.
Choose a smaller manual. Compacts are cheaper to hire and fuel, and easier to park at beaches. Automatics are rarer and pricier in Sardinia.
Trim add-ons and route fees. Return to the same location when practical, limit additional drivers (€10/day each), and have a 25+ driver as the main driver to avoid young-driver surcharges. One-way within Sardinia can be modest (€50-100), but to mainland Italy it’s usually expensive, so hire separately there.
Fuel and parking hacks. Return full-to-full, use self-service pumps to pay less, and keep the receipt. In towns, look for white-line bays (free) and note that blue lines are often free 1-3 pm and overnight.
| Type | Identification | Cost (Approximate) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Parking | Blue lines | Hourly rates apply | Variable rates by location. Often free during lunch (1-3pm) and overnight. |
| Free Parking | White lines | Free | Limited in tourist areas, more common in outskirts and smaller towns. |
| Beach Parking | Varies | Daily rates may apply | Popular beaches have organized spaces that fill early in summer. |
| City Garages | Signed "P" | Hourly and daily rates apply | Available in larger towns. Most secure option for overnight. |
Driving on unsealed or gravel roads is usually restricted or prohibited by rental agreements. Always check your specific contract terms carefully for restrictions. Beach driving is generally prohibited.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left
Book a rental car to visit:
Villasimius and Costa Rei – beaches
Costa Smeralda – beaches, resorts
Bosa (SP105 from Alghero) – coastline, viewpoints
Gulf of Orosei and Cala Gonone – boat tours, beaches
What documents do I need to rent a car in Sardinia?
You'll need a valid driver's license, an International Driving Permit if your license isn't from the EU, a credit card in your name and your passport or ID card.
Can I take my rental car on ferries to smaller islands?
Most car rental companies will let you take the car to La Maddalena and San Pietro islands on a ferry. You should let them know beforehand and check for any special rules. You'll need to buy your ferry tickets separately.
Is it possible to take the car to Corsica (France)?
Most major car rental companies let you take the car to Corsica on a ferry for an extra fee. You have to let them know beforehand. They might also need you to get extra insurance or follow special rules.
How far in advance should I book a car for summer travel?
If you're traveling in July or August, you should book your car at least 3-4 months early. This will help you get a better price and make sure a car is available, especially if you need an automatic or a particular type of vehicle.
Can I pick up a car in Sardinia and return it on the Italian mainland?
Major companies let you do this, but you'll pay a large one-way fee (often €300 or more) on top of ferry costs. It's usually cheaper to rent one car in Sardinia and a separate one on the mainland.
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