The island within the island, not a tongue-twister
Visit the Island of Asinara in Sardinia. How to get there, what to see. Travel notes from a millennial.
Welcome back or welcome?
Welcome back to another adventure together! What do you say? We’ve never met? It doesn’t matter!
I have so much to share, this is my “living room” of discoveries, and everyone is welcome.
Make yourself comfortable and travel with me! Today I want to take you to a wonderful place in the north of Sardinia: the island of Asinara.
Indeed, it’s an island that belongs to another island! The funny name might make you smile, but this is a… unique adventure!
Let’s go!
OMG! Smartphone dead
To reach Asinara, I first drove to the northwest of Sardinia to a small town called Porto Torres.
I had a clear idea: to take a boat tour to Asinara.
So, as soon as I passed the Porto Torres sign, I pulled my phone out of my pocket to book online and realized it was completely dead.
Being a millennial… I felt utterly lost.
No photo.
No selfie.
No check-in.
No stories.
I couldn't even update my stories on Whatsapp.
Just joking, I don’t know anyone who does.
Excuse me, sir, one question...
We decided to head to the port and then we would ask someone – like in the 80s, I guess, I wasn't there.
I spotted a couple with fair skin and very blonde hair on the promenade. I suspected they weren't locals and did not stop them.
Then I noticed an elderly couple sitting on a bench, and despite the July heat, they looked as fresh as roses, while my forehead was like a waterfall in full flow.
Excuse me, sir, a question: how can I book the boat to Asinara?
He looked at me a bit surprised, and for a moment I feared the old man would scold me:
Why don’t you have a phone?
…
Instead, after a moment of suspicion, they both broke into a big smile and a generous heart typical of Sardinians.
1. Buy the ferry tickets here.
2. Rent an electric bicycle here.
In two simple moves, clear, concise, and leaving no room for interpretation, he made me forget the anxiety of being without a phone.
After buying the tickets, how to kill time waiting for the boat to Asinara if not by going to a pastry shop rich with typical Sardinian products?
I nibbled on everything, but those braid-shaped sweets covered in honey called Acciuleddi… 
Better than a dream
Once I reached the island, I thought of replicating the style of the old man dictating on the map the route to the main attractions: “ Alright, we go here, here, and here”
We then mounted our electric bikes heading towards: “Tumbarino, Cala Reale, Trabuccato, and Cala d’Oliva, all clear?”
Game, fight or love?
While continuing my ride and my solo mental concert with AC/DC, I suddenly had to stop because I couldn’t believe my eyes: a sweet little family of donkeys!!!!
I approached cautiously for fear of scaring them, but they were not timid at all!
They looked like plush toys for the softness of their coats, and I immediately adopted them.
From a distance, of course.
Shortly after, we incredibly encountered... more donkeys! Or maybe incredibly not, since we are on the Island of Asinara.
It was a very funny couple, and we still have different ideas about what they were doing. To me, they were playing, while others thought it was courtship.
What about you?
Historical chills
Another point of great interest on the island is the former Asinara Prison; observing the white, peeling walls sent a chill down my spine – I must admit I'm quite fearful. Some parts of the prison buildings have now been converted into a hostel.
Did you know that Asinara was for some time the “obliged” residence of Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino? This story is depicted in a film shot on the island: Era d’Estate.
The mafia is not invincible at all
it's a human fact, and like all human facts
it has a beginning and will also have an end
Those who are afraid die every day
Those who are not afraid die only once
I truly left my heart in this place and I will definitely return. After all, I need to check if the donkeys are well 
TIP
A tip from a modern explorer? Don't wait in line under the sun like I did, who got on board by a stroke of luck. Buy your ticket online for your boat trip to Asinara.
No queue, no sweat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How to get to Asinara Island?
- To reach Asinara Island, you need to get to Porto Torres by car or public transport. From there, you can book a ferry that will take you directly to the island.
- What are the main attractions of Asinara Island?
- The main attractions of Asinara Island include Cala Reale, Tumbarino, Trabuccato, and Cala d'Oliva. Each spot offers breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for swimming and hiking.
- Is it possible to rent bicycles on Asinara Island?
- Yes, on Asinara Island, you can rent bicycles, including electric ones, to explore the trails. This is an excellent way to enjoy the scenery without getting too tired.
- Is Asinara Island suitable for families?
- Absolutely! Asinara Island offers a safe and family-friendly environment, with opportunities to meet the native donkeys and enjoy the beautiful beaches. It’s a perfect place for adventures and picnics.
- What is the best time to visit Asinara Island?
- The best time to visit Asinara Island is during spring and summer, from May to September, when the weather is favorable for outdoor activities and the sea is warm and inviting.
- Are there restaurants on Asinara Island?
- On Asinara Island, there are some eating spots, but options may be limited. It’s advisable to bring food and drinks, especially if you plan to spend the whole day on the island.
- Is a permit required to visit Asinara Island?
- No permit is required to visit Asinara Island, but it’s advisable to book ferry tickets and rental activities in advance. Always check local regulations before your visit.