Things To Do
in Iglesias

Iglesias is a charming town located in the southwestern part of Sardinia, Italy, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. The town boasts a vibrant medieval center with narrow cobblestone streets and numerous historic buildings, including the impressive Cathedral of Santa Chiara. Iglesias is also famous for its mining heritage, with several nearby sites and museums dedicated to this aspect of its history.

Surrounded by the mountains and the sea, it offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Iglesias
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Chiara, followed by a stroll around the picturesque streets of the historic center.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo dell'Arte Mineraria to learn about the town's mining history, then enjoy lunch at a local trattoria.

evening
:

Have dinner at a traditional Sardinian restaurant, followed by a walk to the nearby Parco Monte Sirai for panoramic sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Cuisine
morning
:

Head out to explore the nearby beaches at Porto Flavia, spending the morning swimming and relaxing.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant before hiking the trails in the surrounding hills.

evening
:

Return to Iglesias for a wine tasting experience at a local vineyard, followed by dinner at a popular pizzeria.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
🍷Glass of Wine$4
Coffee$2
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$25
🚍Bus Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture with numerous historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may require a car to access.
  • Language barrier, as not many locals speak English.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Iglesias

Visit one of these nice places.

Cathedral of Santa Chiara

A stunning example of Gothic architecture with intricate details, perfect for capturing the historic essence of Iglesias.

Parco Monte Sirai

An archaeological park with ancient ruins and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Porto Flavia

A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters, ideal for capturing sunsets and coastal scenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Iglesias

Iglesias offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Sardinia with an emphasis on fresh seafood and traditional recipes.

Iglesias Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fregola

A type of pasta similar to couscous, often served with seafood or vegetables.

Must-Try!

Porceddu

Roasted suckling pig, a traditional dish often enjoyed at festive occasions.

Culurgiones

Stuffed pasta pockets filled with potatoes, mint, and cheese, typically served with tomato sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Iglesias

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats, offering a taste of Sardinia.

Street Food Stalls

Look for stalls selling arancini (fried rice balls) and panini filled with local ingredients.

Climate Guide

Weather

Iglesias has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters are generally mild, averaging around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more common from October to March, with the driest months being June to August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) is customary when entering shops.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to say 'Buon Appetito' before meals.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; beachwear is inappropriate outside of beach areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Iglesias is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Iglesias

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but having cash on hand is advisable for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time to explore the outdoors.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to the beaches, with many local festivals taking place.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and the grape harvest season make it perfect for wine lovers.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; it's a quieter time with fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Iglesias at Night

Iglesias features a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and cafes offering live music, especially during the summer months. Locals enjoy socializing over drinks, and you can find small gatherings and events celebrating Sardinian culture. The atmosphere is friendly, and it's common to see people enjoying late-night strolls in the town's beautiful streets.

Hiking in Iglesias

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero Miniera di Nebida

A scenic trail that leads through the ancient mining area of Nebida, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Trekking in Gennargentu National Park

Explore the rugged landscapes and diverse fauna of this national park, suitable for various skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Iglesias by plane.

Cagliari Elmas Airport

Located about 50 km from Iglesias, this is the closest major airport, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Iglesias is quite walkable, especially in the historic center where most attractions are located within a short distance. The cobblestone streets can be uneven, but the town is small enough to explore on foot comfortably. Sidewalks are available, though some areas may require navigating through narrow streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Most of the population consists of Sardinians who take pride in their culture and traditions.

Tourists

A growing number of visitors come to Iglesias, especially during the summer months, drawn by its natural beauty and historical attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Cycling

The terrain around Iglesias is ideal for cycling, with many enthusiasts taking advantage of the scenic routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Iglesias is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, and local services run regularly throughout the week. Parking can be limited in the historic center, so walking is often the best option.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Iglesias.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring local vegetables and cheeses.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it's best to inform them ahead of time.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Iglesias is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics providing medical services. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies can be found throughout the town. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare while abroad.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide