Sardinia Pictures

Sardinia's 1,000-plus miles of coastline are characterized by rock formations and transparent blue waters. Manuel Breva Colmeiro Getty Images

Many Sardinian sightseeing tours leave from Palau Port, located on Sardinia's northeastern coast. janka3147 Getty Images

The hard, tangy pecorino cheese is a Sardinian specialty, as are creamy goat cheeses, such as ircano and caprino. patriziomartorana Getty Images

The island's many different pastas include a saffron-flavored malloreddus. marmo81 Getty Images

Visitors can climb up to Neptune's Cave, a grotto of stalactites and stalagmites, in Alghero.  Vanya Dudumova / EyeEm Getty Images

For some of the best snorkeling, head to Cagliari's Rock of Peppino. Andrea Lobina Photography Getty Images

Southern Cagliari is a vibrant Sardinian city with forested mountains as its backdrop. Wojtek Kaminski / EyeEm Getty Images

Visiting some of Sardinia's towns and villages, including Bosa, is a great way to get a feel for the local culture. Space Images Getty Images

Costa Smeralda is home to interesting rock formations like this one, called Bear's Stone. valhallo78 Getty Images

The lighthouse and otherworldly granite formations of Capo Testa are popular subjects for photographers. Rafael Dols Getty Images

With its aquamarine waters and giant limestone outcroppings, Cala Mariolu is a secluded (not to mention gorgeous) beach. Roberto Defraia Getty Images

Visitors can learn about the ancient yet elusive Nuraghi culture at archaeological sites like Su Nuraxi. kparis Getty Images

Ferry over to Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena and you'll be greeted by vistas like this one.  Manuel Breva Colmeiro Getty Images

Yachts are frequent visitors to Costa Smeralda.  Getty Images

Cala Goloritze in Ogliastra is another one of Sardinia's most beautiful beaches.  Photo by Aitor Garc?a Vi?as Getty Images