Mini-group tour from 6 people with a driver-guide

 

This tour can be an extension of the Stars of the Italian South tour that ends in Rome.

 

Explore three of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean — just with your family or a group of friends!

 

A unique tour of the most stunning islands of Italy and France. We will visit the most exclusive part of Sardinia — the world-famous Costa Smeralda. You will be captivated by the Emerald Coast with its mega-yachts, gorgeous beaches, and turquoise bays. We will taste excellent Sardinian wines, stroll through the most colorful Mediterranean town — Alghero, purchase unique coral crafts, and travel to Corsica, the island of pirates and birthplace of Napoleon. You will visit the “Italian Maldives” — the Maddalena Archipelago, wander among thousand-year-old cork oak groves, buy unique souvenirs made of cork, and marvel at the mystical Neptune’s caves! We will also explore the ancient Nuragic towers — mysterious structures built between the 2nd millennium BCE and the 9th century BCE, the timeless symbol of Sardinia.

 

The bright, sunny islands of Italy and France will forever remain in your heart!

 

 

Day 1 – The luxurious Emerald Coast (Costa Smeralda) and the Tombs of the Giants

 

Arrival at Olbia Airport (morning flights only — no later than 10:30 AM; otherwise, an extra night before the tour is required). Meeting with the tour escort at Olbia Airport (Sardinia).

 

We begin our journey along Costa Smeralda — the most exclusive part of Sardinia. We will visit Porto Cervo, home to the world’s finest boutiques and restaurants. At its marina stands the luxurious Yacht Club, where billionaires from all over the world moor their mega-yachts. We will see the Cala di Volpe Hotel, where The Spy Who Loved Me was filmed.

 

We will discover a true “treasure box” — the charming Stella Maris church, which holds a precious painting of the Madonna by El Greco. You will have free time for lunch in a typical local restaurant. Over lunch, you may try the pride of Sardinian winemakers — Vermentino di Gallura, produced here since the 14th century.

 

Next, we visit the megalithic Tombs of the Giants and the mysterious Nuragic towers — ancient monuments built between the 2nd millennium and 9th century BCE. These are symbols of Sardinia and essential to any visit.

 

We continue to a medieval village famous as a pilgrimage site known for miraculous healings. In the church, we will see the Sacred Door, opened only once every 7 years, with the right granted by the Vatican 400 years ago.

 

Overnight on Costa Smeralda.

 

 

Day 2 – Corsica: the Island of Pirates

 

After breakfast, departure by ferry to Corsica. The ferry crossing itself is incredibly beautiful.

The town of Bonifacio is perched like a swallow’s nest on dramatic white limestone cliffs. The town lies under the shadow of a massive 13th-century Genoese fortress — the Citadelle de Bonifacio. We will see the famous steps carved into the cliffs and you will find yourself taking photos at every turn!

 

We’ll walk along the Comparetto Marina while discovering fascinating stories and legends of the island. Then we will ascend to the old fortified town, located 60 meters above sea level. Its narrow streets will lead us to squares, large churches, and landmarks related to famous historical figures such as Emperor Charles V, King Alfonso of Aragon, and of course, Napoleon Bonaparte.

 

We will also visit another local landmark — the maritime cemetery, the only functioning marine cemetery in Europe.

 

For active travelers: you may descend directly from the fortress to the sea along a steep ancient staircase of 189 steps, known as the “Scar of Corsica.”

 

Lunch recommendation:

• fresh oysters with French wine, or

• stuffed Bonifacio-style eggplants with chestnut beer — a Corsican specialty.

 

Afterward, you will have free time for strolling or shopping.

 

Return by ferry to Italy.

Overnight on Costa Smeralda.

 

 

Day 3 – The mystical Neptune’s Caves and the Coral Capital of Alghero

 

After breakfast, we head to Sardinia’s western coast. We visit the famous Neptune’s Cave. We descend via the scenic 654-step staircase, and return to Alghero by boat. (Cave and boat tickets are paid on the spot to the guide.)

 

We will take a guided stroll through the historic center of Alghero.

 

Alghero was built in the Middle Ages by Catalans, which is why it is often called “Little Barcelona.” The colorful and radiant town welcomes us with its majestic walls, towers, churches decorated with majolica, colorful houses, artisan shops, and fashionable boutiques. Only in Alghero can you purchase genuine red coral jewelry, unique to this region.

 

Free time for lunch — you may try pasta with sea urchins or tuna roe (bottarga), along with wine and the classic dessert seadas — large cheese-filled ravioli covered with wild honey.

 

Overnight on Costa Smeralda.

 

 

Day 4 – The Maddalena Archipelago: the Italian Maldives

 

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today we explore the largest and most beautiful islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago — often called the “European Maldives.”

 

We take a ferry from Palau (about 20 minutes). Upon arrival, we head straight to the island of Caprera, accessible by bridge. There we visit the house-museum and grave of Italy’s great general Giuseppe Garibaldi, then hike up Mount Tejalone (212 m). The 20-minute ascent rewards us with a breathtaking 360° panorama of the archipelago, Sardinia, and Corsica.

 

Afterward, we visit one of the island beaches — even on windy days, hidden coves offer crystal-clear turquoise water. The entire archipelago is a national park and strictly protected.

 

We return to La Maddalena for a panoramic island tour with scenic stops.

 

For lunch, you may choose one of the local seafood restaurants for fresh fish or seafood dishes.

 

After lunch, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the charming historic center, full of shops and boutiques. Then ferry back to Sardinia.

 

Overnight on Costa Smeralda.

 

 

Day 5 – Sheep Cheese Making Masterclass, Tempio Pausania, and Cork Forests

 

Breakfast at the hotel.

We head to a local farm to observe the milking of sheep and participate in making the freshest cheese. Few experiences compare to tasting cheese crafted with your own hands!

 

Afterward, we continue to Tempio Pausania. The town’s very name — Tempio — means “temple.”

 

On the way, we visit a stunning site — a garden with thousand-year-old olive trees. The oldest tree has a circumference of 12 meters and is estimated to be around 4,000 years old.

 

Sardinia’s mild winters and hot summers create ideal conditions for cork oak. The process of cork harvesting is a true art, performed entirely by hand to avoid damaging the tree. You will be able to purchase unique cork souvenirs: soft wallets, bags, hats, fashion accessories, and kitchen items.

 

Overnight on Costa Smeralda.

 

 

Day 6 – Departure from Sardinia

 

Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out at 10:00 AM.

Group transfer to Olbia Airport and departure from Italy.

 

 

THE TOUR INCLUDES:

 

 

THE TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE:

 

 

ADDITIONAL NIGHT:

 

Available upon request before the start of the tour.

 

Cost per night:

• ½ Double — $134.00 per person per night

• Single supplement — $232.00 per night

 

 

Airport-to-hotel transfer: Price depends on the number of people.