First things first: I’m not an experienced driver, so everything I describe here is based on my own impressions and personal experiences. Take it with a pinch of humor.
It took me quite a while to adapt to the driving style here. And, frankly, it’s cost me a lot of grey hairs and a few frayed nerves. There are rules, sure, but they often feel more like recommendations for most drivers. Of course, there are some who drive cautiously and stick to the rules, but they are definitely in the minority.
When I say “adapt,” I mean it’s a never-ending process. There’s always something new to get used to, especially coming from Germany, where rules are… well, rules.
Road Signs Are to Be Ignored (Mostly)
If you’re driving on the main roads of the island, you’ll notice plenty of speed limit signs—50 km/h, 30 km/h, and so on. You might slow down, thinking you’re doing the right thing, but you’ll soon notice that everyone else around you is getting frustrated and speeding up to at least 90 km/h. Why? Who knows! Even though life here is slower in many ways, driving is a whole different ball game. If you’re not speeding, you’re an obstacle, and that means beeping horns and angry gestures. Don’t take it personally, and definitely avoid getting into trouble by responding! 😀
From my experience, to avoid feeling out of place, it’s best to go just a little above the speed limit (around 5-10 km/h over). But if you feel more comfortable sticking to the speed limit, then by all means, that’s the safest option.
Speed Limit Controls
Keep in mind that even police cars tend to drive faster than the posted speed limits here. However, watch out for speed limit controls. When these happen, you’ll need to stay within the limit. You’ll usually know when a speed check is coming up because suddenly, everyone will start driving much slower than usual, often far below what’s necessary. There’s no in-between here!
The controls are often mobile, meaning police cars will pull over on the side of the road and measure the traffic speed using special tools. There are also fixed controls, called autovelox. These are usually preceded by road signs that will warn you about them—at least 800 meters ahead. Take these seriously, because fines for speeding can be quite steep, depending on how much you exceed the limit.
Parking
Like in the rest of Italy, parking in Sardinia can be a bit of a mixed bag.
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White Lines: Generally, this means free parking. But always check the signs nearby, as sometimes it’s free only for residents or during specific hours of the day.
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Blue Lines: This usually means you need to pay for parking. Look around for a nearby machine to pay. The prices vary from city to city.
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Yellow Lines: These are reserved parking spots for special groups, such as deliveries or people with disabilities.
That’s the theory. In practice, however, you’ll see plenty of people parking where they shouldn’t—sometimes even in double lines. I wouldn’t recommend doing this unless you’re prepared for the possibility of a fine. If you do find yourself in a tight spot, try not to park there for too long.
Local Driving Etiquette
Driving in Sardinia isn’t just about following the rules—it’s also about understanding local driving customs. For instance, while honking the horn might be alarming to newcomers, it’s often just a way to grab someone’s attention, not a sign of road rage. Similarly, roundabouts may seem confusing at first, but remember that traffic already in the roundabout typically has the right of way.
If you’re in more rural areas, you’ll encounter narrow, winding roads that require extra caution. These roads can be a bit more challenging for drivers unfamiliar with mountain terrain, so drive carefully and enjoy the view!
Road Conditions & Summer Traffic
In Sardinia, the road conditions can vary significantly, especially outside of larger cities. While the main roads are generally in good condition, rural areas may have narrower, less-maintained roads. These roads can offer a beautiful drive, but you’ll want to be extra vigilant on the winding paths.
In the summer months, be prepared for traffic, especially in coastal towns. Sardinia is a popular tourist destination, and many areas become congested during the peak tourist season. Patience and flexibility are key!
Fuel and Gas Stations
Filling up at the gas station in Sardinia is easy, but make sure to pay attention to whether it’s a self-service station. At many self-service stations, you’ll need to pay in advance either at the pump or inside, so make sure to check before filling up. Some stations may only accept cash, while others will accept credit cards.
Insurance & Documentation
When driving in Sardinia, make sure your car insurance meets the local requirements. If you’re new to Italy, take the time to learn about local insurance policies—third-party insurance is required by law, but some drivers may also opt for additional coverage.
Also, be aware that after a year of living in Italy, you may need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for an Italian one. Be sure to check with local authorities for the specific requirements based on your country of origin.
Final Tips for Adjusting
Driving in Sardinia can be an adventure, but with a little patience, you’ll quickly get used to the relaxed pace of life on the road. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for tips about driving in certain areas—whether it’s about parking regulations, tricky intersections, or finding the fastest route through the summer crowds.
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