How Much Does a Sardinia Vacation Really Cost?
Forget generic averages. Here is the verified 2026 price breakdown for Olbia, Golfo Aranci, and the Costa Smeralda — direct from local owners.
The "Owner-Operator" Effect
Most cost guides cite hotel prices. But in 2026, the smart money is on Owner-Operated Rentals.
Why? Because hotels charge per person. We charge per apartment. Plus, with a full CREO Kitchen, you avoid the "every meal out" trap. Booking directly with Rental12 also removes the ~15% service fee charged by Airbnb/Booking.com.
2026 Inflation Watch
- 📈 Up 12%: Car Rentals (Book early!)
- 📈 Up 8%: Restaurants & Beach Clubs
- 🛑 Stable: Rental12 Direct Rates for early bookings, otherwise +5%
*Data based on Olbia market analysis Jan 2026.*
🧮 2026 Trip Estimator
1. Food & Dining Costs
Sardinian food is incredible, but costs vary wildly. The secret? Use your apartment kitchen for breakfast/lunch, and dine out for dinner.
Takeaway & Beach
- Pizza (Margherita): €6.50 – €8.00
- Pizza (Gourmet): €10.00 – €14.00
- Panino (Sandwich): €5.00 – €7.00
- Coffee (Bar): €1.30
- Water (1.5L Store): €0.40
Sit-Down Dinner
- Pasta Dish: €14.00 – €18.00
- Seafood Main: €20.00 – €28.00
- House Wine (Liter): €12.00 – €16.00
- Cover Charge (Coperto): €2.50 pp
Costa Smeralda
- Tasting Menu: €80.00 – €150.00
- Fresh Fish (kg): €80.00+
- Cocktail: €18.00 – €25.00
- Service: Often 10-15% added
The "Coperto" (Cover Charge) of €2-3 covers bread/service. However, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated.
2. Getting Around: Wheels & Water
To reach the hidden beaches, you need a car. Public transport is good for town-hopping, but limits beach access.
| Transport | Price Estimate (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Car Rental (Low Season) | €25 - €40 / day | Book via Partners |
| Car Rental (High Season) | €75 - €110 / day | July/August peaks |
| Bus Ticket (Urban) | €1.50 (90 min) | ASPO Lines in Olbia |
| Ferry (Deck / Foot) | €45 - €60 | Livorno/Civitavecchia |
| Ferry (Car + Cabin) | €180 - €350 | Overnight saves a hotel night! |
🛑 Avoid the ZTL Fine (€90+)
Olbia has strict ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones). Driving into the historic center without a permit triggers an automatic camera fine. Rental12 guests receive a detailed map, but staying in a property with guaranteed parking is the safest bet.
3. Accommodation Styles
Prices below are per night, per unit (not per person). This is why apartments beat hotels for value.
Azulis Collection
High-end design, brand new, premium locations. The ultimate boutique experience.
Explore Projects:Family Smart
Spacious 2-bedrooms near amenities. Washer/dryer, full kitchen, parking options. Unbeatable family value.
The Rental12 Difference
Choosing where to stay in Sardinia is often a gamble between impersonal hotels and inconsistent private hosts. RENTAL12 removes that uncertainty. We are not an agency; we are a dedicated team of local owners and operators. Every property listed is exclusively managed by us, meaning we know exactly how the coffee machine works, how fast the WiFi is, and where to find the best parking.
By stripping away the layers of middlemen, we pass the savings directly to you. No hidden service fees, no "surprise" taxes at checkout, and no ghosting if you need help. From our verified "Azulis" luxury collection to our smart family apartments, you get the consistency of a boutique hotel with the freedom of a private home.
Behind the Scenes: The Invisible Luxury
Frequently Asked Cost Questions
Beat the 2026 Rate Hikes
Booking directly with the owner locks in the best rate and avoids the 15% platform fees.
Search Verified Properties