Is Sardinia Safe? What Travelers Need to Know in 2026

Is Sardinia safe? Yes — Sardinia is one of the safest destinations in Italy and across Europe. The island has some of the lowest crime rates in the country, violent crime is virtually non-existent, and locals are famously welcoming to visitors. The province of Oristano in Sardinia was ranked the safest province in all of Italy by ISTAT (the Italian National Institute of Statistics). Whether you're planning a beach holiday, a road trip through the mountains, or relocating long-term, Sardinia is an exceptionally safe choice.

That said, every destination has its nuances. Here's what you actually need to know about staying safe in Sardinia in 2026.

The Short Answer: Yes, Sardinia Is Very Safe

Sardinia enjoys a well-deserved reputation as one of the safest regions in Italy. According to ISTAT data, crime rates on the island are significantly lower than the Italian national average — and far below major tourist destinations like Rome, Milan, or Naples.

Unlike parts of southern mainland Italy (see our Italy safety guide for broader context), Sardinia has no mafia presence. Organized crime simply isn't a factor here. The island's tight-knit communities, where everyone knows everyone, create a social fabric that naturally discourages crime.

When asked about safety concerns in their daily life, most Sardinians will look at you with genuine confusion. For locals, crime isn't something they think about — and for visitors, it shouldn't be either.

Crime in Sardinia: What the Data Shows

Violent Crime

Violent crime in Sardinia is extremely rare. Assaults, robberies, and serious crimes against tourists are virtually unheard of. You can walk through villages at night, explore remote beaches, and hike in the mountains without concern for personal safety.

Petty Crime

Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded tourist areas during peak summer season — but it's far less common than in major European cities. Standard precautions apply:

• Keep valuables close in crowded areas
• Don't leave bags unattended on beaches
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics

Most travelers visit Sardinia without experiencing any issues whatsoever.

A Note on History

Between the 1970s and 1990s, Sardinia gained an unfair reputation due to a series of kidnappings in the island's interior — the most famous being Italian singer Fabrizio De André in 1979. This era is long over. Kidnappings haven't occurred in decades, and the island's modern reality couldn't be more different from those troubled times.

Beach and Coastal Safety

Sardinia's beaches are the island's crown jewels — crystal-clear waters, white sand, and dramatic coastal scenery. They're also very safe, with a few practical considerations.

Swimming Safety

Sardinia's waters can have strong currents, especially on the western coast. Always:

• Swim at beaches with lifeguards during summer months
• Pay attention to warning flags (red = no swimming)
• Be cautious at unfamiliar beaches
• Avoid swimming when seas are rough

Belongings on the Beach

It's common practice to leave belongings on your towel while swimming. During peak season when beaches are crowded, petty theft is possible (though rare). In the low season or on quieter beaches, you'll often find yourself virtually alone — security isn't a concern.

Don't Take the Sand (Seriously)

Here's something most travel guides don't emphasize enough: taking sand, shells, or stones from Sardinian beaches is illegal and strictly enforced.

This isn't a minor rule. Fines range from €500 to €3,000, and in serious cases, you can be arrested. In August 2019, a French couple faced potential prison time for stealing 40 kg of sand stored in water bottles.

Sardinia's beaches are protected natural environments. Leave only footprints, take only photos.

Driving and Road Safety

Driving is the best way to explore Sardinia, and roads are generally well-maintained. However, the island presents some unique challenges.

Road Conditions

• Main roads and highways connecting major cities are excellent
• Rural and mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly lit
• Signage can be limited in remote areas

Speed Limits

• Urban areas: 50 km/h
• Secondary roads: 90 km/h
• Main roads: 110 km/h

Speed cameras are common, and fines are sent to your rental company months later.

Animals on Roads

Sardinia has free-roaming livestock, particularly sheep, goats, and wild boar. Driving at night in rural areas requires extra caution — animals can appear suddenly on the road.

ZTL Zones

Like all Italian cities, Sardinian towns have ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in historic centers. Driving into these without authorization results in automatic fines. Check signage carefully or ask your hotel.

Natural Hazards

Sardinia's Mediterranean climate is generally benign, but seasonal hazards exist.

Wildfires (Summer)

Summer months bring wildfire risk, particularly in the dry interior. Fires are often caused by human activity. If you see smoke or fire, move away and alert authorities immediately (call 115).

Flooding (Autumn)

October and November can bring intense rainfall that overwhelms drainage systems, particularly in coastal areas. Severe floods occurred in 2008, 2013, 2018, and 2020, causing property damage and fatalities. During heavy rain:

• Avoid driving through flooded roads
• Stay away from riverbeds and low-lying areas
• Monitor local weather alerts

Wind

Sardinia is one of the windiest places in the Mediterranean. The mistral wind can be fierce, particularly in winter and spring. This affects sea conditions, ferry schedules, and can make beach days unpleasant — but it's rarely dangerous.

Safe Areas vs Areas to Avoid

Sardinia doesn't have "dangerous" neighborhoods in the way mainland cities might. However, a few urban areas are best avoided late at night:

Cagliari:

• Sant'Elia
• San Michele
• Is Mirrionis

Sassari:

• Latte Dolce
• Santa Maria di Pisa

These areas have higher rates of petty crime and drug activity. They're not tourist destinations, so you're unlikely to end up there accidentally. Tourist areas, historic centers, beaches, and resort towns are all perfectly safe at any hour. For recommendations on where to base yourself, see our guide to the best places to live in Sardinia.

Healthcare and Emergencies

Sardinia has modern hospitals and medical facilities. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access public healthcare. Non-EU visitors should have travel insurance.

Emergency Numbers

• General Emergency / Police: 112
• Ambulance: 118
• Fire Department: 115
• Coastguard: 1530
• Environmental Emergency: 1515

Major hospitals are located in Cagliari, Sassari, Olbia, and Nuoro. Air ambulance services operate 24/7 for emergencies in remote areas.

Final Verdict

Sardinia is genuinely one of the safest travel destinations in Europe. With virtually no violent crime, no organized crime, and communities that look out for visitors, the island offers peace of mind that's increasingly rare.

Use the same common sense you'd apply anywhere: secure your belongings in crowded places, drive carefully on winding roads, respect beach regulations (especially the sand laws), and check weather conditions before hiking or boating.

Beyond that? Relax. You're in one of the most welcoming, secure corners of the Mediterranean. Enjoy it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sardinia safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Sardinia is very safe for solo female travelers. The island has low crime rates, harassment is uncommon, and locals are respectful and helpful. Standard precautions apply — avoid isolated areas late at night and stay aware of your surroundings in crowded places — but women traveling alone consistently report feeling safe throughout the island.

Is it safe to drive in Sardinia?

Yes, driving in Sardinia is safe, though it requires attention. Main roads are well-maintained, but rural routes can be narrow and winding. Watch for livestock on roads, especially at night, and be aware of ZTL zones in town centers. Italian driving can be more aggressive than you're used to — stay alert and confident.

Is Sardinia safer than Sicily?

Both islands are safe for tourists, but Sardinia has lower overall crime rates. Sicily has some areas with organized crime presence (though this rarely affects tourists), while Sardinia has no mafia activity. For sheer peace of mind, Sardinia edges ahead — but both are solid choices for a Mediterranean holiday.

Are there dangerous animals in Sardinia?

No dangerous animals pose a threat to visitors. Sardinia has no venomous snakes, no bears, and no large predators. Wild boar exist in the interior but avoid humans. The main "dangerous" wildlife are mosquitoes in summer (bring repellent) and the occasional jellyfish in the sea during certain seasons.