Italy, Europe
Sardinia in May
Sant'Efisio on May 1 in Cagliari is one of Italy's great processions. By late May the beaches are pleasant and uncrowded.
The straight answer
May is a good month to visit Sardinia. Sant'Efisio on May 1 in Cagliari is one of Italy's great processions. By late May the beaches are pleasant and uncrowded.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 74F (23C), sea warming
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What May is like in Sardinia
May is warm, with highs near 74F (23C), and the sea is warming up. Sant'Efisio on May 1 in Cagliari is one of Italy's great processions, and the Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari brings a parade of traditional dress on a Sunday this month. By late May the beaches are pleasant and uncrowded, and prices are fair.
This month suits families, hikers, and culture lovers. Early May is best for festivals and walking, while late May starts the beach season. If you want the sea truly warm, June and September are better.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Sardinia this month.
Festa di Sant'Efisio
On May 1, thousands in traditional costume, with ox carts and horsemen, escort the saint's statue out of Cagliari.
Cavalcata Sarda, Sassari
Groups in traditional dress from all over the island parade, followed by horseback displays.
Uncrowded beaches
Late May beaches are quiet and pleasant, with most facilities reopening.
What to pack for May
- Swimsuit for late May
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Light layers
- Comfortable walking shoes
Our timing tip
Book your Cagliari hotel early for May 1, and find a spot along the procession route well before it starts.
Book Sardinia for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in SardiniaOpens a hotel search for Sardinia in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in SardiniaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in SardiniaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Sardinia for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Festa di Sant'Efisio, Cagliari
May 1 every year
A procession of thousands in traditional costume, with ox carts and horsemen, escorting the saint's statue out of Cagliari.
Cavalcata Sarda, Sassari
A Sunday in May, varies by year
A parade of groups in traditional dress from across the island, followed by horseback displays.
Things to do in Sardinia
La Maddalena Archipelago
A national park of granite islands and turquoise channels off the northeast. Boat tours run from Palau and La Maddalena; go early in the season or in September.
Gulf of Orosei and Cala Goloritze
Cliff-backed coves reachable by boat from Cala Gonone or by hiking trail. Cala Goloritze has limited, paid access in summer.
Su Nuraxi di Barumini
The best-preserved Nuragic complex, visited by guided tour. A strong half-day from Cagliari.
La Pelosa, Stintino
Shallow turquoise water off the northwest tip. In summer access is capped and requires booking and a fee.
Cagliari's Castello
The hilltop old quarter with bastions overlooking the port and salt flats, where flamingos feed much of the year.
Alghero
A walled, Catalan-influenced port town on the northwest coast with sunset ramparts and a strong seafood tradition.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid the week around August 15 entirely if you can; it is the single most crowded week of the year.
- Book capped beaches such as La Pelosa and Cala Goloritze as soon as access opens, and aim for early or late time slots.
- Base yourself on the less-developed southwest (around Chia and Sant'Antioco) or the east coast rather than the Costa Smeralda.
- Book summer ferries and car rentals months ahead; both sell out in July and August.
Know before you go
- Most coastal hotels, lidos, beach bars, and boat excursions operate from about May through early October and close from November to March.
- Cagliari, Sassari, Alghero, Nuoro, and the interior towns run year-round.
- Several of the most popular beaches now have summer access limits, booking systems, or entry fees, and rules can change year to year.
- Taking sand, shells, or pebbles from Sardinian beaches is illegal and fined.
Sardinia in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Sardinia?
May is a good month to visit Sardinia. Sant'Efisio on May 1 in Cagliari is one of Italy's great processions. By late May the beaches are pleasant and uncrowded.
What is the weather like in Sardinia in May?
Warm, highs near 74F (23C), sea warming.
Is Sardinia crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Sardinia; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Sardinia in May?
Festa di Sant'Efisio, Cagliari (may 1 every year); Cavalcata Sarda, Sassari (a sunday in may, varies by year).
Keep planning Sardinia.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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