The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Cagliari, Italy

Discover the sun-kissed charm of Cagliari - Italy's hidden gem.

22 April 2023

Cagliari, the capital city of Sardinia is a must-visit destination for any history buff, beach lover or foodie. This Italian city boasts unique landmarks such as the Old Town, the National Archaeological Museum and the 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria. Travelers can spend their days exploring gorgeous beaches, dining at seaside restaurants, and immersing themselves in the rich and fascinating Sardinian culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get Acclimated

  • Check into the beautiful T Hotel near the city center
  • Climb up to the ancient Castello neighborhood and stroll its narrow streets
  • Admire the panoramic view of the city from the Bastione San Remy
  • Explore the Cittadella dei Musei, home to several regional and national museums
  • Relax in the evening with a drink at the trendy Marlin Bar
Day 2

Historic Charm

  • Walk down to the bustling Marina district and enjoy breakfast at Sapori e Delizie
  • Visit the impressive Roman Amphitheatre that was built in 2nd century AD
  • Walk around the imposing Cathedral di Santa Maria and the nearby Pisan towers
  • Learn about local history and culture at the National Archaeological Museum
  • Savor the traditional Sardinian cuisine and wine at Su Cumbidu restaurant
Day 3

Beach Day

  • Head out to Poetto beach, one of the longest beaches in Europe
  • Rent a beach umbrella, chairs and relax while sunbathing or swimming in the sea
  • Take a windsurfing, kite surfing or stand-up paddleboarding lesson from the nearby water sports schools
  • Grab a refreshing drink or eat some gelato from the many beach kiosks
  • Dine at La Tana del Luppolo, a chic bistro serving flavorful Italian dishes
Day 4

Nature Escape

  • Take a drive to the Parco Naturale Molentargius-Saline, a protected wetland area
  • Ecosistema, an elegant eco-restaurant, located within the park, is the perfect place for a farm-to-table lunch
  • Observe various species of flamingos, herons, and other waterbirds from the park's observation points
  • Visit the nearby Nuraghe Arrubiu, an impressive bronze age archaeological site
  • Watch the sunset from the nearby hilltop lighthouse of Capo Sant'Elia
Day 5

Last Hurrah

  • Go on a shopping spree for souvenirs and locally made handicrafts at the open-air San Benedetto Market
  • Stop over at the picturesque San Domenico church and university
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with the heavenly desserts at Gelateria L’isola del Gelato
  • Walk along the panoramic Via Roma promenade
  • Savor the farewell dinner with great ambiance and seafood at La Bola restaurant with magnificent sea views.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cagliari, Italy by plane is to fly directly to Cagliari-Elmas Airport. Major airlines such as Alitalia, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer direct flights from various cities across Europe.

Car

You can reach Cagliari by car by taking the SS131/E25 road from the north or south. It's about a 3-4 hour drive from Olbia and a 5-6 hour drive from Palermo. Cagliari has several parking facilities, including the Cagliari Parking and the Via Roma Parking.

Train

Although there are no direct train services to Cagliari, you can take a train to the nearby towns of Iglesias, Carbonia or Assemini, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Cagliari.

Boat

Ferries provide regular services to Cagliari from ports in Sicily, Naples, Civitavecchia, and Palermo. The ferries usually dock at the Cagliari Port, which is within walking distance of the city center.

Bus

Several bus companies, including Flixbus and Sulcis Trasporti, provide regular bus services to Cagliari from various cities in Italy. The buses usually arrive at the ARST bus station, which is located in the city center.

More travel plans

Cagliari Delights: A Family-Friendly Day Trip Extravaganza

Cagliari, located on the southern coast of Sardinia, Italy, offers a delightful family-friendly trip. Explore its charming historical center filled with narrow streets, vibrant piazzas, and ancient architecture like the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria. Spend sunny days at Poetto Beach, a long stretch of golden sand with calm waters perfect for swimming and building sandcastles, while also enjoying the playgrounds and recreational activities available for kids. Additionally, don't miss out on a visit to the Cagliari Aquarium, where children can marvel at the diverse marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Cagliari Escape: A Romantic Adventure

A romantic trip to Cagliari, Italy promises to be an enchanting experience for couples. The city boasts of a rich history, stunning beaches, and charming architecture that are sure to make couples fall in love all over again. With its quiet cafes, magnificent views, and mouth-watering cuisine, Cagliari is a perfect destination for a celebration of love.

Ciao Budget! 4 Days in Beautiful Cagliari, Italy

Visiting Cagliari, Italy on a limited budget is still a great way to experience the city's rich history and culture. Start by exploring the historic center, Castello, which offers stunning views of the city and numerous museums. Then, enjoy the local cuisine at popular restaurants like Il Refettorio and La Lanterna. Finally, relax on the nearby Poetto Beach, which is easily accessible by public transport.

Cagliari, Italy: 5 Days of Fun and Adventure!

Cagliari, located on the beautiful island of Sardinia, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its stunning beaches, such as Poetto Beach, and crystal-clear waters, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The city itself offers numerous attractions, including the National Archaeological Museum, where kids can explore ancient artifacts, and the Cagliari Zoo, where they can meet a variety of animals.