Sardinia itinerary ideas

It’s an hour and 45 minute drive from OLB to Alghero, and I’ll leave it to you to determine if that is workable after your flights. If being honest it’s right on the line for me, though we flew into Olbia and drove to Cala Gonone last year and will do the same this year, and that’s only ten minutes less.
I think your list looks great. I focused on the east coast last year and am still sorting out this year’s trip. I wish you great weather! It’s nice you have some indoor activities available in Alghero and Sassari in case it is rainy or cool. I have the Lonely Planet and DK books and there is a Sunflower book with scenic drives and walks that could come in handy.

Thank you for your helpful reply. I will look for those tour book resources, I have the DK from the library but I don't know Sunflower!

I think that looks like a great plan. Alghero is lovely, and if it's not covered on your tour it would be a great addition. We also drove there from Olbia Airport, although not right after a flight. The drive was pretty straightforward.

We stayed in a former convent, which we really enjoyed: https://il-convento.sardiniahotels24.com/en/

The Grotta di Nettuno was fun, and we also spent some time on the beach tho I think it won't be warm enough for that in April. One of my favourite things was watching the sunset with a cocktail from near the Belvedere on the city walls. Hope you have a wonderful trip!

The Sunflower one is older, with only a few featured things in the north so not as vital to track down. It’s a gorgeous place, enjoy!

I loved Sardinia! I think your plan to base in Alghero is fine. The Grotta di Nettuna is definitely a “don’t miss” item. Taking a walk along the Bastion is relaxing and very scenic. At the northern end I had a wonderful meal at Mirall which is also near the cathedral and the diocesan museum - both worth a visit.

The Hotel Domomea is highly rated and I found free in-street parking readily available though the hotel also has paid parking. It’s in a quiet location and most of what you want to see or do in Alghero is within easy walking distance. For the best pizza on the island, try OK Pizza Evolution. They were a 3 minute walk f4om the hotel but have moved to a new location about a 5 minute drive.

We enjoyed Bosa, but it wasn't particularly impressive, and we found Sassari more interesting overall. Alghero makes a great base, as it's captivating enough to return to more than once. The stretch between Spiaggia del Porticciolo and Spiaggia di Porto Ferro is ideal for coastal hikes, as is Punta Argentiera.

Alghero makes a good base. About day trips, Sassari could be good if the weather is poor because there are quite a few things to see including churches and museums which we didn't have time for in one day. Some areas are a bit gritty but the food is more for locals than tourists.
https://slowtravelitalyspain.blogspot.com/2024/06/sardegna-in-may-day-7-sassari.html?m=1
On the other hand if the weather is sunny I would definitely go to Bosa. The town itself is pretty but the drive down the coast and back is absolutely stunning. The hillsides will be full of flowers that time of year and the contrast with deep blue sea is unbeatable!
https://slowtravelitalyspain.blogspot.com/2025/06/a-day-trip-to-bosa-sardinia.html?m=1

thanks for all these ideas and suggestions!! I really appreciate it, and feel more confident about renting a car and staying in Alghero for the 3 nights while exploring the area in a leisurely way!!

Happy travels to all!