November 12, 2025

Porto Cervo: what to see and where to eat

The best restaurants, hotels, boutiques and aperitifs in Sardinia's most luxurious resort

Founded sixty years ago in an unspoiled corner of Gallura, in northern Sardinia, Porto Cervo marked the golden age of Italian summers. Since then, it has embodied the pinnacle of international lifestyle, blending Italian elegance with a strong local identity.

Born from the visionary mind of Prince Karim Aga Khan, Porto Cervo has become a model of harmonious development: every new construction adheres to strict aesthetic guidelines to preserve the integrity of the natural landscape. For over twenty years, no new settlements have been authorized along the coast.

A unique place that remains today the most iconic summer stage in the Mediterranean, a favorite destination of the international jet set from the worlds of politics, finance, culture, entertainment, and sports. An essential stop on the global luxury circuit—from Monte Carlo to Capri—with its dream yachts moored at the Porto Cervo Marina. “Here, the sea takes on particularly beautiful shades ranging from the deepest blue to the purest green. There are dozens of fine sandy beaches... Rugged green and grey mountains plunge steeply into the water. A carpet of violet, yellow, red, and blue flowers scents the air,” said the Aga Khan.

Porto Cervo is home to the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, one of the most exclusive in the world, and the Promenade du Port, a refined oasis of haute couture boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and elegant lounge bars. Hospitality here is a sophisticated blend of exclusive comfort and local charm, while the culinary offerings range from international gourmet cuisine to the authentic flavors of Sardinia.

What to do and see in Porto Cervo

The historic center

The beating heart is the Piazzetta of Porto Cervo, overlooking the old harbor and surrounded by luxury boutiques, bars, restaurants and art galleries. Here you can breathe in the true essence of the village. Also worth visiting is the Museum of Mediterranean Weaving, to discover local crafts and history. Click here to discover all the summer cultural events in Porto Cervo!

Waterfront Costa Smeralda 2025

With the beginning of summer, Waterfront Costa Smeralda 2025 officially opens its doors: a true open-air lounge in the heart of Porto Cervo's old port, where lifestyle excellence meets art, music and sustainability. Waterfront Costa Smeralda 2025 evolves and renews itself while maintaining its exclusive identity. The famous PODs, exhibition capsules designed by architect Gio Pagani, become dynamic and immersive spaces this year, designed to offer multi-sensory experiences. The 2025 edition focuses on the human experience through art and music, offering installations and iconic Pop and Street Art works in dialogue with famous song lyrics in the Pop Art Loves Pop Music format, in collaboration with Deodato Arte. Read more about Porto Cervo's new Waterfront by clicking here!

Stella Maris Church

A short walk from downtown, the Stella Maris Church is one of Sardinia's most fascinating religious buildings. Designed by Michele Busiri Vici and completed in 1968, it is famous for its visionary architecture and shapes inspired by surrealist art. Inside, a granite altar and an atmosphere of authentic spirituality.

The most beautiful beaches of Porto Cervo

Beaches not to be missed include:

Pevero beach: crystal clear waters and perfect for snorkeling
Cala di Volpe: very white sand and emerald sea
Cala Petra Ruja: famous for the red pebbles that create an almost Martian landscape
Principe beach: enchanting and easily accessible from the center

Where to eat in Porto Cervo

Before discovering the must-visit restaurants in Porto Cervo's piazzetta, click here if you want to know our selection of the best around the village. And if you want to have an aperitivo, here you are served.

Novikov Porto Cervo
Via Porto Cervo, Porto Cervo SS
ph. +39 0789 931621

Novikov has landed in Porto Cervo directly from London. The format is recognizable: top-notch fusion cuisine, minimal-chic design and a cosmopolitan clientele. The ideal choice for glamorous dining, featuring Asian dishes revisited with regional ingredients and signature cocktails.

La Pergola in Giardino
Cervo hotel, Porto Cervo
ph. +39 0789 931685

Those looking for a break from the hectic pace of summer can take refuge in the muted colors and whispered elegance of La Pergola in Giardino, also in the Piazzetta. A cozy and romantic restaurant, where Sardinian cuisine becomes fine dining, with local ingredients transformed into refined dishes, to be enjoyed surrounded by greenery and the muffled silence of the evening.

Nuna al Sole
Piazzetta, Porto Cervo
ph. +39 0789 931709

Overlooking the small square, Nuna al Sole is also a guarantee of the local gastronomic scene. Contemporary cuisine, a convivial spirit and a musical selection that perfectly accompanies the sunset: Nuna is the perfect place for a long aperitif that turns into dinner, including crudi, Mediterranean tapas and cocktails with aromatic profiles.

Cervo Restaurant (Cervo Hotel)
Porto Cervo
ph. + 39 0789 931630

On the other hand, those who want an authentically Sardinian experience can choose Cervo Restaurant, elegant and timeless, where local tradition meets typical internationality. Relaxed atmosphere, impeccable service and a cuisine that enhances the flavors of the territory with discretion and savoir-faire.

Il Portico
Piazzetta, Porto Cervo
ph. +39 0789 931637

Il Portico represents the most exclusive terrace in Porto Cervo. Located in the iconic Piazzetta with enchanting panoramic views over the Marina, it is the perfect place to enjoy a bespoke cocktail experience with friends or a relaxing evening with family.