Cagliari 
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FRComplete Guide to Cagliari
Discover everything you need to know about the capital of Sardinia: from historic districts to beaches, from culture to gastronomy, to make the most of your experience in Cagliari.
General Overview
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia, a charming city overlooking the sea and surrounded by hills, ponds, and natural parks. With its Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild and short winters and warm, sunny, but ventilated summers, it is the ideal destination for a vacation in any season.
150,000
Inhabitants in the city center
420,000
Metropolitan area
7 km
Poetto beach length
Historic Districts and Panoramic Hills
Castello
The medieval heart of Cagliari, perched on a hill with bastions, Pisan towers like the Elephant Tower and San Pancrazio Tower, the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria, historical museums, and breathtaking views of the city.
Stampace
An ancient and authentic district, full of small churches, artisan workshops, and traditional trattorias where you can taste true Sardinian cuisine in a genuine and welcoming atmosphere.
Marina
The multi-ethnic and lively district located near the port, full of characteristic venues, fresh fish restaurants, and a lively nightlife that lasts until late at night.
Villanova
A quiet and pedestrian area with splendid Aragonese churches, hidden flowered courtyards, and trendy shops, perfect for relaxing strolls in the historic center.
Monte Urpinu and Monte Claro
Large urban public parks that offer spectacular views of the city and the gulf, ideal for jogging, picnics, and moments of relaxation surrounded by greenery.
Tuvixeddu
A unique archaeological site that hosts the most famous and largest Punic necropolis in the Mediterranean, a testament to the ancient civilization that inhabited these places.
Nature, Beaches, and Relaxation
Poetto
The most famous urban beach, 7 kilometers long with white sand, kiosks, bars, umbrella rentals, a bike path, and a pedestrian promenade perfect for walks and sports.
Molentargius-Saline Natural Park
Famous for hosting a permanent colony of pink flamingos. You can go birdwatching and rent a bike to explore the trails.
Calamosca Beach
A small and charming bay with crystal clear water, protected by the promontory of Capo Sant'Elia and easily reachable on foot.
Giorgino Bay
An equipped beach ideal for families. Famous for its calm waters and the presence of several beach resorts.
Museums and Culture
National Archaeological Museum
Houses a rich collection of archaeological finds from prehistory to the Roman era, including the famous Giants of Mont'e Prama.
Cittadella dei Musei (Museum Complex)
A museum complex located in the Castello district that houses the Archaeological Museum, the National Art Gallery, and the Sardinian Ethnographic Museum.
Civic Art Gallery
Exhibits modern and contemporary art, including paintings by Sardinian masters like Giuseppe Biasi and Filippo Figari.
Botanical Garden
A green oasis in the heart of the city, with Mediterranean and exotic plant species and an ancient Roman cistern.
Local Gastronomy
Cagliari's cuisine is a fusion of sea and land flavors. Don't miss the following dishes and specialties:
Fregola con arselle (Sardinian pasta with clams)
Culurgiones (Sardinian ravioli)
Porceddu (roasted suckling pig)
Burrida (marinated catshark)
Malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchetti)
Seadas (fried pastry with cheese and honey)
Pani e Casu (bread and cheese)
To taste these delights, explore the city markets like the San Benedetto Market, the largest civic market in the city, a true temple of fresh food.
San Benedetto Market
Sant'Elia Market
Via Quirra Market
Sports and Activities
Water Sports
The Poetto beaches are ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and paddleboarding.
The Poetto beaches are ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and paddleboarding.
Trekking and Excursions
Many trekking trails can be found in the surrounding hills, such as Monte Urpinu Park and the Sella del Diavolo promontory.
Many trekking trails can be found in the surrounding hills, such as Monte Urpinu Park and the Sella del Diavolo promontory.
Cycling
Well-maintained bike paths run along the Poetto waterfront and inside Molentargius Park, perfect for a bike ride.
Well-maintained bike paths run along the Poetto waterfront and inside Molentargius Park, perfect for a bike ride.
Golf and Tennis
Golf and tennis courts are located around the city for sports enthusiasts with a panoramic view.
Golf and tennis courts are located around the city for sports enthusiasts with a panoramic view.
Cagliari Calcio
The local team, winner of the historic 1970 championship with the legendary Gigi Riva, plays at the Sant'Elia stadium.
The local team, winner of the historic 1970 championship with the legendary Gigi Riva, plays at the Sant'Elia stadium.
Curiosities and Useful Tips
Street Art
Via San Saturnino has been transformed into an open-air gallery with colorful murals and urban art by local and international artists.
Via San Saturnino has been transformed into an open-air gallery with colorful murals and urban art by local and international artists.
Viewpoints
The best panoramic spots are the Bastione di Saint Remy, the Castello Terrace, and Monte Urpinu Hill.
The best panoramic spots are the Bastione di Saint Remy, the Castello Terrace, and Monte Urpinu Hill.
Music and Festivals
Every summer, Cagliari hosts the "Jazz in Sardinia" music festival, featuring internationally renowned artists.
Every summer, Cagliari hosts the "Jazz in Sardinia" music festival, featuring internationally renowned artists.
Aperitivo Hour
Don't miss the evening aperitivo at the Bastione di Saint Remy, a unique experience with a view of the port.
Don't miss the evening aperitivo at the Bastione di Saint Remy, a unique experience with a view of the port.