Italy has a reputation for being an expensive place to visit and Sardinia is no exception. Taking a holiday on this beautiful island can be a great experience but prices do tend to be fairly high.

If you're looking to visit the island without having to break the bank then you'll find that forward planning is the key to finding a budget holiday in Sardinia.

The first point to note is that the island is at its most popular during the months of July and August. These two months see Sardinia enjoy its warmest weather, with long dry spells being very common.

This is also a period of the year that coincides with the school holidays in the UK and much of continental Europe. Many families choose to travel abroad during this time as a result.

For those on a budget, avoiding these two months of the year is the best way of finding a bargain. The weather on Sardinia is often more pleasant during the months of May and September, as temperatures can be hard to bear during the high season.

You'll also find that hotel and flight prices are significantly lower if you are able to avoid the two most popular summer months.

If you are travelling with children then you may well find that travelling to the island in July and August is unavoidable.

In this case, consider finding accommodation in some of the island's less popular resorts. There are some great hotel and package holiday deals available well away from the dominant Costa Smeralda region of the island.

It is possible to have a budget holiday in Sardinia - make sure that you are flexible and that you plan your visit well in advance.