Things To Do
in Cagliari
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views over the Gulf of the Angels. Its historic Castello district rises above the marina, weaving ancient walls, panoramic balconies, and narrow stairways into a living postcard. The city blends Phoenician, Roman, and Catalan influences with a lively food scene and pristine beaches just moments away.
In short, Cagliari offers a compact, coastal Mediterranean experience with culture, cuisine, and easy access to nature all in one place.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the historic district, savoring traditional pastries like 'brioche sarda' and robust Italian coffee. After your meal, wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of Castello, the oldest part of Cagliari, where you can admire the ancient towers and stunning views of the city. Don't forget to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria, an architectural gem that showcases beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings.
For lunch, indulge in some local seafood at a trattoria, where dishes such as 'spaghetti ai ricci' (sea urchin spaghetti) are a must-try. Post-lunch, explore the Roman Amphitheatre, a remarkable relic of the past where gladiatorial games once took place, and enjoy the surrounding greenery. Stroll through the Botanical Garden, discovering a variety of plants native to Sardinia while enjoying the peace and tranquility.
As the sun sets, head to the Marina district for a vibrant atmosphere filled with bars and restaurants. Enjoy a traditional Sardinian dinner, sampling local favorites like 'porceddu' (roast suckling pig) and 'culurgiones' (stuffed pasta). Cap off the night with a leisurely walk along the harbor, taking in the beautiful reflections of the city lights on the water.
Spend the morning basking in the sun at Poetto, Cagliari's stunning urban beach stretching for miles along the coastline. Grab a quick breakfast at one of the beachside kiosks, trying a refreshing granita or a slice of focaccia. Once settled, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore, enjoying the views of the Sella del Diavolo, a striking coastal mountain.
For lunch, sample some fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, with the sound of waves providing a relaxing backdrop. Afterward, indulge in various water sports, such as paddleboarding or windsurfing, or simply relax on the beach with a good book. The vibrant atmosphere and local beachgoers make it a perfect way to soak up the Sardinian sun.
As evening approaches, explore the nearby Molentargius-Saline Regional Park, known for its flamingo populations and stunning sunsets. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachfront pizzeria, where you can try classic Italian wood-fired pizza. Finish the day with a gelato while walking along the promenade, admiring the twinkling lights along the coast.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚎Public transportation ticket (one-way) | $1.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with stunning views
- Excellent seafood and Sardinian specialties
- Close access to beaches and nature without long travel
- Hills in the old town can be steep and tiring
- Some tourist areas can be crowded in peak season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Vorrei ..." - I would like ...
Places to Visit in Cagliari
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic terrace offering sweeping views over the harbor and city rooftops, especially stunning at sunset.
Winding lanes and historic walls create dramatic lines and textures ideal for street photography and cityscapes.
Medieval tower with surrounding viewpoints and atmospheric old-town streets.
Long sandy stretch with blue water and the city skyline as a backdrop for wide coastal shots.
Cliffs and lighthouse scenery perfect for dramatic seascapes.
Food in Cagliari
Cagliari Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sardinian semolina gnocchi with sausage, tomato sauce, and saffron; a classic shepherd-and-pantry dish.
Must-Try!
Toasted fregola pasta with small clams and garlic, olive oil, and white wine; a coastal specialty.
Stuffed pasta dumplings typically filled with potatoes, pecorino, and mint; a comforting regional favorite.
Slow-roasted suckling pig, often prepared over charcoal; a festive Sardinian centerpiece.
Honey-drizzled fried dough pockets filled with cheese; a sweet end to a Sardinian meal.
Cured fish roe (often tuna), shaved over pasta or bread; a salty coastal delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the city’s largest covered markets, where you can sample seafood, cheeses, olives, and prepared foods straight from local producers.
Look for stalls offering pane carasau (thin Sardinian flatbread) topped with tomato, olive oil, or pecorino, as well as quick panini and fritters around the old town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite ‘Buongiorno’ or ‘Buonasera’ is common; handshake is typical in formal settings, hugs or kisses depend on familiarity.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; silence and respectful behavior encouraged in sacred spaces.
Meals are shared and long, especially in family-run restaurants; wait to be seated and avoid loud behavior in small streets.
Safety
Tipping in Cagliari
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory; rounding up or leaving a 5-10% tip at nicer or service‑charging venues is common when satisfied with service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, cafés, and shops; cash is still useful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daily highs often in the high 20s to mid-30s°C. Beach days are common; carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
Mildly warm days with cooler evenings. Pleasant for outdoor exploring and less crowded beaches.
Mild to cool, rarely freezing. Rain is possible, but coastal strolls remain enjoyable with appropriate layers.
Green landscapes and pleasant temperatures; great for hiking in nearby parks and city exploration.
Cagliari at Night
Hiking in Cagliari
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with multiple trails of varying difficulty, offering coastal views and wildlife.
Ridge trails offering panoramas over the city and sea, accessible from the outskirts.
Airports
How to reach Cagliari by plane.
Main international gateway to Sardinia, located just outside the city; connects to major European destinations and domestic routes.
Larger regional hub further north; serves many seasonal routes, especially in summer.
Another northern hub; a longer drive to Cagliari but alternative for some itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Home to the University of Cagliari, attracting a youthful and international student community.
Longstanding residents with deep ties to tradition and local markets.
Mix of locals and expats who enjoy a slower pace near the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cagliari has a historic football culture with local clubs and enthusiastic match days.
Coastal location lends itself to sailing, windsurfing, and snorkeling around the bay.
Common as organized sports with local clubs and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cagliari.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Sardinian dishes feature meat, but vegetarian options are available in modern restaurants and taverns. Seek dishes with cheese, vegetables, legumes, cheeses, and pasta; ask for no meat stock and request pane carasau with tomato and pecorino.