Cagliari on a Budget: A Historic Day Trip

Experience the beauty of Cagliari without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Cagliari, an ancient city in the southern region of Sardinia, Italy, is an affordable destination for budget-conscious travelers. From exploring the city's Roman ruins and medieval sites to enjoying the pristine beaches, there is a lot to do with limited spending. Tasting the local cuisine and wines at the markets and restaurants is also an exquisite experience to savor while not breaking the bank.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Historic City Center of Cagliari

  • Start your day with a visit to the Bastione di Saint Remy, a 19th-century fortress offering stunning city views.
  • Explore the winding streets of the Castello district, admiring the colorful buildings and historic architecture.
  • Take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, an impressive Gothic church with a mix of Baroque and Romanesque features.
  • Relax with a gelato in the bustling Piazza Yenne or enjoy a coffee and people watching in the nearby cafes.
  • For dinner, head to La Cantina di Trieste, a cozy restaurant serving delicious homemade pasta and seafood dishes at affordable prices.
  • With a full day in Cagliari, you can experience the best of the city's charm, history and cuisines, without breaking the bank.

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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Cagliari, Italy: A 3-Day Family Adventure!

Cagliari, Italy offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and breathtaking beaches. Explore the narrow streets of the medieval Castello district, visit the impressive Museo Archeologico Nazionale to discover ancient relics, or take a fun-filled boat tour to the nearby islands of Molentargius and Sant'Antioco. With its warm Mediterranean climate and vibrant atmosphere, Cagliari guarantees an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Cagliari on a Budget: A 2-Day Adventure

Cagliari, an ancient town full of history and beautiful beaches, is a great destination for travelers on a budget. You can find affordable accommodations in the city center and experience the local culture by visiting local markets and sampling authentic Sardinian cuisine. With a little planning, you can explore the charming narrow streets, ancient ruins, and stunning coastline without breaking the bank.