Cagliari

Introduction

You will find Cagliari serves as the capital and primary city of Sardinia, located within the autonomous region of Italy. As you explore this coastal destination, you can experience the atmosphere of a significant urban center that anchors the surrounding metropolitan area.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by exploring the various audio and PDF guides available on the city's tourist website, which are organized into six walking tours to help you navigate the capital of Sardinia.

You can expect a safe environment while exploring the city both day and night. You should simply maintain the same personal precautions you would use at home, though you should remain mindful of your surroundings near the main bus and train station.

Getting there

You can arrive in Cagliari by plane at Aeroporto di Cagliari-Elmas, which serves as a hub for numerous domestic and international flights. If your journey involves a layover, you can connect through well-connected airports in Milan or Rome. Once you land, you have several ground transportation options: a train connects the airport to the city center and the rest of the island, while various taxi companies are available at the terminal. For those traveling by car, the airport is located on the SS130 road.

If you prefer to arrive by sea, the Stazione Marittima di Cagliari offers ferry connections from ports such as Civitavecchia, Naples, and Palermo. The city's railway station provides further connections to various locations across the island, including Sassari, Olbia, Oristano, Iglesias, and Carbonia Serbariu. For regional travel by bus, several companies operate in the area, with specific services running to destinations like Olbia and Santa Teresa Gallura.

Getting around

You can navigate the city and its suburbs using an extensive network of bus and trolleybus lines. To simplify your journey, you can use a mobile app to purchase tickets with your credit or debit card, which you then validate by scanning a QR code upon boarding. For those traveling further afield, a light rail system serves the town and parts of the metropolitan area.

If you choose to travel by car, be aware that navigating during rush hour is difficult and finding parking can be a challenge. The city center contains several limited traffic zones, including Marina, Castello, Villanova, Stampace Alto, Stampace Basso, and Poetto.

Where to stay

You can choose from various accommodation options in the region surrounding Cagliari. For those seeking a coastal experience, you can stay on the white sandy beaches of Chia at locations such as Forte Village or Le Meridien Chia Laguna.

Other options are available further inland:

• Hotel Tanca Irde is situated in the Capoterra area on a small hill between the mountains and the sea, featuring grounds with a swimming pool.
• Bed and Breakfast del Fiore offers rooms with private bathrooms, including one option with a balcony.

Food & drink

Explore the culinary scene of the old town, where numerous restaurants line via Sardegna and via Napoli. You can enjoy a variety of pizzas at Framento or Napul'é, while L'Oca Bianca offers pizza tucked away in the side streets of the Marina district. For those seeking local favorites, Pizzeria Il Pepe Rosa is popular with locals for its outstanding cuisine. If you prefer a more substantial dining experience, Convento San Giuseppe serves an extensive selection of dishes within a historic building.

Depending on your preference for variety and atmosphere, you can find diverse options across the city:

• Savor seafood at Ci Pensa Cannas near the port or explore international flavors like Indian tandoori food.
• Visit the Stampace borough to enjoy a specialty coffee and an international breakfast at Caffè dell’Arte.
• Choose from local specialties such as ramen in Villanova, deli finds at Cucina di Mariam, or fresh poke bowls near Torre dell'Elefante.
• Find lighter options like lunch salads at Piazza Yenne or visit various gelaterias if you prefer not to eat a heavy meal during the day.

What to see and do

Explore the city on foot, where you can wander through the old town to discover its history. The Castello district sits atop a hill facing the Gulf of Cagliari, offering scenic views that are best enjoyed from locations inaccessible by car. Within this area, you can visit the 13th-century Cattedrale di Santa Maria di Castello, which features a Neo-Gothic façade and a rock-excavated Shrine of the Martyrs, or admire the 18th-century Spanish Rococo decorations at Chiesa di San Michele. The historic skyline is punctuated by Pisan towers dating back to the 13th century, including the Torre di San Pancrazio and the Torre dell'Elefante. For a different perspective, climb the stairs of the Bastione di Saint Remy for views of the city, sea, and mountains, or visit the nearby Palazzo Regio, which served as a residence for royal representatives.

Beyond the old town, you can explore diverse cultural sites and natural landscapes:

• Historical landmarks such as the 5th-century Basilica di San Saturnino, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Bonaria.
• Architectural highlights like the neoclassical Porta Cristina and the eclectic façades along via Roma.
• A variety of museums including the National Archaeological Museum, the Pinacoteca Nazionale featuring Sardinian paintings, the Siamese Art Museum, and the collection of anatomical wax models.
• Green spaces such as the Giardini Pubblici with its centenarian trees, the Orto Botanico, and the Orto dei Cappuccini.
• Natural experiences like visiting the Saline di Quartu Sant’Elena to see migratory flamingos or relaxing on the long stretch of Poetto Beach.

Three days in Cagliari

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of Cagliari. Explore the historic atmosphere of the Castello district before wandering through the narrow streets of Stampace Alto and Stampace Basso to experience the local character.

Day two, head toward the coast to enjoy the seaside views at Poetto. You can spend your time near the water or travel further out to see the landscapes of Chia.

Day three, you can explore the surrounding areas including Villanova and Capoterra as you conclude your stay in Sardinia.