3-Day Cagliari Getaway: Sun, Sea, and Sassari

Discover the charm and beauty of Cagliari, Italy.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Cagliari, Italy offers a blend of rich history, gorgeous beaches, and top-notch cuisine. You'll explore the ruins of the ancient city of Nora, bask in the sun on the powdery sands of Poetto beach, and savor the local delicacies such as 'Malloreddus alla Campidanese'. With its friendly people, charming atmosphere, and stunning landscapes, Cagliari is an excellent destination for anyone seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old City

  • Check into the Art Hotel Museo, a stylish base in the heart of the city
  • Wander around the winding streets of the old town, taking in the colorful buildings and hidden corners
  • Visit the Botanical Gardens for a peaceful break from the bustle of the streets
  • Marvel at the views of the city from the top of the Torre dell'Elefante (Tower of the Elephant)
  • Sample local delicacies like culurgiones (Sardinian dumplings) and seadas (honey and cheese pastries) at the family-owned trattoria Da Barbara
Day 2

Beaches and Bastions

  • Take a bus to the Poetto Beach, a long stretch of golden sand lapped by crystalline waters
  • Soak up the sun and the Mediterranean vibes, strolling along the promenade and people-watching
  • Walk up the stairs to the top of the Bastione di Saint Remy, a stunning terrace with panoramic views of the sea and the city
  • Visit the National Archaeological Museum to learn more about the ancient history of Sardinia, from Nuragic to Roman times
  • Treat yourself to a dinner of fresh seafood and local wines at the traditional restaurant Sa Schironada
Day 3

Castle and Cathedral

  • Start the day with a pastry and coffee at the historic Pasticceria Puddu, a landmark of Cagliari's sweet tooth
  • Climb up to the Castello district, crowned by the medieval castle and surrounded by historic walls
  • Admire the artworks and exhibitions at the Civic Art Gallery and the Contemporary Art Pavilion
  • Enter the awe-inspiring Cagliari Cathedral, a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Byzantine styles, and see the famous wooden statue of the city's patron saint, St. Ephysius
  • Enjoy a farewell lunch of grilled meats and veggies at the rustic Osteria del Tempo Perso, where time seems to stand still.

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

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Discover Cagliari in Two Perfect Days

As a tourist in Cagliari, Italy, visitors can enjoy the city's historic charm and stunning coastline. Sightseeing highlights include the Castello, an ancient fortress, and the beautiful Poetto beach. Foodies will love sampling traditional Sardinian dishes, such as malloreddus pasta and suckling pig.