Information and travel tips for Porto Cervo in north east Sardinia

Porto Cervo is a picturesque resort town located on the Emerald Coast in northern Sardinia, Italy. The closest airport is Olbia Airport, approximately 40 kilometers away. Porto Cervo is a dream destination for those seeking a luxurious and enchanting escape. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, upscale shopping, and a history of elegance, it remains one of the most coveted destinations in the Mediterranean.

It is a popular destination for many VIPs, especially during the summer months: see and be seen is the motto in this sophisticated and exclusive holiday resort. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and stunning cliffs, it is the epitome of luxury. Porto Cervo takes its name from the fact that it is situated in a bay shaped like a deer (cervo in Italian).

Porto Cervo, like the other locations on the Costa, like Liscia di Vacca, Capriccioli and Romazzino, has a high density of luxury hotels, such as Cala di Volpe, Hotel Romazzino and Hotel Pitrizza, each offering stunning views, impeccable service, and top-notch amenities. Additionally, visitors can choose to stay in elegant luxury villas overlooking the sea, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

Porto Cervo is a paradise for luxury shopping. The Promenade du Port is a fashionable area where visitors can explore a plethora of chic boutiques offering the latest in Italian and international fashion. In the elegant pedestrian area around the Piazetta you will find luxury boutiques from the most famous designers (such as Aspesi, Brunello Cuccinelli, Cavalli, Dior, Dolce&Gabbana, Gucci, Hermes, Aspesi) and pop-up shops from the best jewellery manufacturers (including Cartier, Chopard, Hublot, Pomellato and Vhernier).

Some of the most beautiful yachts and sailing boats in the Mediterranean can be admired in the Porto Cervo marina, especially during the summer months, when national and international VIPs regularly gather here.

A little history

The coastline of the Emerald Coast in northern Sardinia is about 55 km long and is concentrated in an area of 33 square kilometres. A mere 60 years ago the prince Karim Aga Khan IV felt in love with this fantastic coast stretch and decided to create a luxury sea resort and exclusive area. Special attention has been paid to the architecture, which, unlike other tourist centres, blends in harmoniously with its surroundings and was designed in collaboration with famous architects such as Busiri-Vici, Jacques and Savin Couëlle and Luigi Vietti: the buildings are painted in white or warm colours and must not be higher than three storeys. Electricity had to be laid underground. This architecture combines luxury, elegance and Mediterranean charm in a very special way.

The beaches around Porto Cervo

Porto Cervo boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean. The beaches are characterized by crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine, white sand. Popular beaches include the Liscia Ruja, Capriccioli, and Spiaggia del Principe. These pristine shores offer a perfect setting for sunbathing, water sports, and leisurely walks along the coastline.

  • Spiaggia del Principe: A stunning beach of fine sand and turquoise waters. The backdrop of dunes and rocks makes this beach particularly picturesque.
  • Capriccioli Beach: This beach impresses with its dazzling white sand and clear waters. Ideal for sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts.
  • Liscia Ruja: The longest beach offers the finest sand and is surrounded by green hills. Perfect for long walks by the sea.

Activities and attractions

  • Admire the luxury yachts from all over the world in the marina near the central Piazetta: Porto Cervo is a Mecca for yachting enthusiasts.
  • The lively Piazzetta is the centre of Porto Cervo. Here you will find elegant boutiques, cafes and restaurants. A perfect place to experience the hustle and bustle of the town.
  • Immerse yourself in the prehistoric history of Sardinia and visit the nuraghe complexes in the area, such as the Nuraghe Albucciu. The tomb of the prehistoric giants (Tomba the Giganti) Li Muri is also worth a visit.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Porto Cervo is vibrant and sophisticated, attracting celebrities and jet-setters from around the world. The town is home to exclusive beach clubs, stylish bars, and high-end restaurants. The Piazzetta, the central square, comes alive at night with people enjoying cocktails, live music, and the lively atmosphere.

  • Billionaire Club: An exclusive nightclub run by Flavio Briatore that attracts celebrities. Here you can dance until the early hours of the morning and enjoy unusual cocktails.
  • Ritual Club: Ritual Club is ideal for a mix of lounge and clubbing. International DJs create the right atmosphere.

Tips for trips in the area

While in Porto Cervo, there are numerous excursions and activities to enjoy. Boat tours to explore the nearby islands, helicopter rides for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline, and hiking trails that offer breathtaking panoramas are just a few options for those seeking adventure.

Take a boat trip to the archipelago of La Maddalena and discover the unspoilt nature and hidden coves of the islands.

Visit the nearby city of Olbia for its historic charm, archaeological sites and lively markets.

How to get there

The nearest airport is Olbia Airport (OLB), about 40 kilometres from Porto Cervo. From here you can hire a car or arrange a transfer.