This Mediterranean Gem With Pristine Beaches Is The World's Newest Blue Zone

Some of Italy's top destinations for tourists can be found in historic cities such as Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and even Turin, which boasts plenty of amazing tourist attractions worth visiting on its own. That said, aside from the places overflowing with tourism, you'll find a Mediterranean gem just off the mainland of Italy that's been recognized as one of the world's newest Blue Zones: Arzachena.

Located on Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, Arzachena's recognition as the world's newest Blue Zone has little to do with the crystal-clear blue water of the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea. Instead, it's about longevity. Tucked away near the northeastern tip of the island, the town is home to some of the world's oldest living people, called centenarians, who live up to the wise age of 100 — with some even surpassing that number. 

During 2025's edition of the Longevity Fest, findings showcased that the extended lifespan of the population can be chalked up to a handful of factors, including living a healthy lifestyle and being somewhat isolated from the modernity of other parts of the country. Throughout Arzachena, people follow a slow, traditional way of life that involves eating and harvesting food directly from the land they call home, with an emphasis on a plant-based diet alongside small amounts of meat like fish and poultry. Additionally, centenarians also claim that following a consistent routine of walking, laughing with family and friends, and enjoying a couple of glasses of red vino a day all contribute to the longevity of the locals in both Arzachena and Sardinia as a whole.

Reaching Arzachena can be achieved by jumping on a one-hour flight from Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) directly to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport. From there, travelers must make the 17-mile drive along the SS 125 motorway. As you drive into Arzachena, you'll be fully enamored by the scenery that unveils itself. Surrounded by hills with strategically planted rows of vineyards, the landscape gives way to a town with intertwining streets featuring traditional, colorful architecture — complete with drying laundry flowing in the breeze and a relaxed vibe that encourages visitors to relax and slow down.

Beach bums and seaside devotees will love the abundance of beaches located near Arzachena. Considering Sardinia is widely considered home to one of Italy's most breathtaking beaches, the nearby Capriccioli Beach stands out as another one of the region's most inviting coastal landscapes. Just a 10-mile drive from Arzachena, the beach is a great pick for a relaxed day of soaking up the sun and swimming in calm, crystal-clear water. Capriccioli Beach also has a few different sections sharing the Capriccioli name (west, east, and north), each with beautiful views of the distant islands dotting the horizon.

But with so many beaches to choose from, why settle for just one? The close driving proximity between the beautiful beaches in the Arzachena area calls for a beach-hopping road trip. Head north from Capriccioli Beach on a short 4-mile drive to Grande Pevero Beach, where you can feast your eyes on the bright azure waters dotted with yachts casually floating by — signifying that you are, in fact, at a luxury tourism destination that has carried that reputation since the 1960s. After soaking up the relaxed beach vibes, stop by the Snack Bar at Hotel Piccolo Pevero for a quick bite or drink before hitting the road again.

Away from the water, Arzachena boasts an array of archaeological sites that also make it a haven for history buffs. A standout attraction here is Nuraghe La Prisgiona, located about 4 miles from town. Dating back to the 14th century BC, it features a main tower, two side towers, and a village spread across roughly 10 acres, offering sprawling views of the Capichera Valley. The Giants' Tomb of Coddu Vecchiu is another must-see archaeological site that dates back to the Early Bronze Age and was once used as a burial ground. Today, the site offers sweeping views of nearby vineyards.

Looking to get the best view of Arzachena while getting your daily steps in? Hike up to Roccia del Fungo. In Italian, fungo means mushroom, a fitting description of the rock's mushroom-like shape as it sits over the edge of the hill. After reaching the top, take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views of town and the surrounding landscape. Once you've made your way down, head to the no-frills Pizzeria il Calipso di Giovanni & Iole, where every pizza on the menu ranges between $5 to $10. Mamma mia!

Accommodations in Arzachena also cater to a wide range of budgets. For an affordable option, Il Cortile di Dea offers an entire private home for just $96 per night, complete with a garden, added privacy, and a cozy interior that's perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. On the luxury end, Sardinia Family Villas – Villa Donatella elevates any stay with a three-bedroom layout, private pool, and spacious terrace just outside of town, with rates starting around $1,744 for a five-night minimum stay.