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Planning a trip to one of Italy’s most beloved islands? If not, you should consider it, because both of these islands are gorgeous, and less packed than many other Italian destinations (as of now). I’ve visited both Sicily and Sardinia, and I am here to help you decide which place to go based on many factors (transportation, cities, attractions, and beaches). The answer will not be the same for everyone, so when deciding, consider everything. Regardless, both are great vacation locations, and you won’t be disappointed. 

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Transportation

Sicily Transportation:

Sicily slightly leads in transportation options. In 2025, Sicily began welcoming international flights, which can simplify travel and eliminate additional layovers depending on your departure location. Once you’re in Sicily, the trains are limited, but some connect to major cities. This is perfect for those who cannot or prefer not to rent a car, lack a license, or are uncomfortable driving. However, I still recommend renting a car for visiting specific destinations, such as Scala Dei Turchi. Be aware that traffic in cities like Palermo can be chaotic and overwhelming due to loose traffic rules.

Sardinia Transportation:

There’s no getting around it: a rental car is necessary for your visit, because public transportation is practically nonexistent. Taxis are expensive, especially in rural areas; they can be difficult to find unless provided by hotels or other accommodations. During my visit to Sardinia, having a car was important for beach hopping, which you’ll likely want to do. On the plus side, driving felt safe, and we never encountered heavy traffic. Currently, there are no direct international flights to Sardinia, so you’ll need to be in Europe beforehand or prepare for multiple transfers.

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Cities

Sicily Cities:

Sicily’s vibrant cities are rich in history, street food, and charming chaos, beyond just beautiful beaches. Palermo, for instance, is full of culture and delicious street food, but people either love or hate its chaos. For those who want a nicer escape, Catania or Taormina are great options, if you have the money. Cefalù, my favorite coastal city, is the perfect Italian summer experience. It is an ideal balance, providing all necessary amenities without being overly expensive.

Sardinia Cities:

Sardinia is characterized as calm, with smaller cities, and it offers a calming atmosphere; however, this is not the main appeal for visitors. My favorite major cities, Olbia and Cagliari, both conveniently have nearby airports. However, our time in these city centers was largely due to airport transfers and dinners. A significant advantage of Sardinia is the flexibility in choosing accommodations; since the focus is on the island’s stunning beaches, you’re not restricted to staying within city centers.

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Beaches

Sicily Beaches:

Sicily has beautiful beaches, which may not be as turquoise as Sardinia’s, but they are extremely clear. The best beaches are on the small islands in Sicily, but many people don’t make it because of the time and money it takes to get there. Needless to say, Sicily is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, so anywhere you go is still gorgeous for swimming.  

Sardinia Beaches:

Sardinia leads in the world’s top beaches (specifically Cala Goloritize), famous for its stunning blue waters. However, accessing the most popular ones often requires reservations, and some are only reachable by hiking, boat, or guided tour. While other beaches are more accessible, experiencing the unbeatable beauty of Sardinia’s prime coastal spots requires careful planning. Failing to secure reservations in advance will lead to regret upon arrival. For instance, La Pelosa Beach, known for its white sands, requires reservations weeks or even months in advance.

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Attractions

Sicily Attractions:

I was surprised to see how many other things there were to see in Sicily. Volcano Etna, the Doric Temple of Segesta, and Scala Dei Turchi are just a few of the unique attractions you can visit, instead of the beach. This is a plus because you can still visit Sicily during the colder months to see other things, if not the beach. Exploring all of these sights requires lots of time and a car, as they are scattered across the island. You also have the option to take a tour bus there.  

Sardinia Attractions:

Sardinia is known for its beaches, and unfortunately, from my experience, there are not many attractions to see. A notable place I could find includes Grotta Gigante, the largest cave in Italy. These sights are not near the major cities, so you will have to go out of your way, but it is worth it once you get there. If you only have a few days in Sardinia, I definitely still recommend spending them on the beach; that is the main attraction. 

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For newcomers visiting an Italian island, Sicily is an excellent choice, offering a wide range of experiences beyond its beautiful beaches, and it has many opportunities for sightseeing due to its size. Sardinia’s natural beauty primarily centers around its beaches and a relaxing vacation. When comparing the two, Sicily presents a wider array of attractions. For more in-depth recommendations and activities, please refer to my dedicated blogs for each island.