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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Cagliari sharing quite a few of those!
Cagliari is a jewel in the Mediterranean, beckoning visitors with its turquoise waters, ancient architecture, and a vibrant energy that’s pulsating through its cobbled streets.
Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views or immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, Cagliari has a little something for everyone.
So, pack your bags and embark on a journey of discovery in this idyllic coastal city that promises to leave an indelible imprint on your soul.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Cagliari:
1. Castello di San Michele
A medieval castle located on a hill in the historic district of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour to explore the castle’s history and architecture, and admire the stunning views of the city and sea from the panoramic terrace.
Visit the Archaeological Museum housed inside the castle, showcasing ancient artifacts from the Nuragic and Phoenician cultures.
Don’t miss: The Cathedral of Santa Maria, located in the castle’s grounds, with its striking Gothic-style façade and lavish Baroque interior.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the castle is situated on a steep hill and there are numerous steps to climb. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise.
Take a break at the castle’s café to enjoy a cup of coffee with a view.
2. Cathedral of Santa Maria
The Cathedral of Santa Maria is a historic church located in the heart of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Admire the striking façade of the church, decorated with intricate carvings and featuring a rose window in the Gothic style. Inside, marvel at the ornate interiors and intricate frescoes that span the walls and ceiling.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive 15th century choir stalls, made from walnut wood and featuring intricate carvings. Another highlight is the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, which contains a gorgeous altar and stunning paintings.
Insider travel tips: – Entrance to the Cathedral is free, but consider making a donation to help with the upkeep of the church.
3. National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari houses one of the most important collections of ancient artifacts in Sardinia, dating back to the Nuragic, Phoenician, Punic, and Roman periods.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a range of fascinating objects such as bronze statuettes, Nuragic figurines, ancient Roman coins, Punic and Phoenician ceramics, and artifacts from the ancient city of Nora.
Don’t miss: The highlights of the museum include the Giardino delle Colonne, a beautiful garden with impressive Roman columns, and the Giants of Mont’e Prama, ancient and enormous statues representing warriors, archers, boxers, and models of nuraghi.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least a couple of hours at the museum to see everything.
4. Poetto Beach
A long stretch of sandy beach located in the city of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Swim in the clear blue water, sunbathe on the sandy beach, take a walk along the promenade, and enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing.
Don’t miss: Catching a view of the Sella del Diavolo (Devil’s Saddle) rock formation, located at the end of the beach near Calamosca.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own umbrella and beach chairs as rentals can be expensive. Avoid the beach during the peak summer months of July and August, when it can be overcrowded.
Instead, visit in June or September for a quieter experience.
5. Bastione di Saint Remy
The Bastione di Saint Remy is a historic fortress located in the heart of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Wander around the old fortress walls and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Admire the neoclassical architecture of the monument and be sure to visit the exhibition halls underneath the terrace of the Bastione.
Don’t miss: The spectacular sunset over the city and the sea from the terrace of the Bastione. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a drink while admiring the view.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to visit the Bastione during the day and at night, as it provides two different atmospheres. Avoid visiting during the hottest hours of the day and wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of this popular attraction.
6. Roman Amphitheatre
The Roman Amphitheatre is an ancient landmark and a significant historical site located in Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the amphitheater, which was built in the 2nd century AD. The impressive structure could hold up to 10,000 spectators, and it was used for gladiator contests and other public events.
Don’t miss: The underground chambers beneath the amphitheater, which were used as holding cells for animals and gladiators, are a must-see. Additionally, the beautiful view of Cagliari from the top of the amphitheater is unparalleled.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the site requires a lot of walking and climbing.
It’s also recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Visitors should also check out the nearby Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history of the Roman Empire in Sardinia.
7. Citadella dei Musei
Citadella dei Musei is a museum complex located in the heart of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Explore the seven museums that make up the complex, including the National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari, the Museum of Siamese Art, and the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Cagliari.
Discover ancient artifacts, contemporary art, and everything in between.
Don’t miss: The Roman amphitheater, located within the museum complex, is an impressive sight to see.
Built in the 2nd century AD and used for gladiator fights, it’s one of the few Roman amphitheaters that face east, offering spectacular views of the sea.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the various museums. Consider purchasing a combined ticket to save money.
The complex is located on a hill, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill walking.
8. Torre dell’Elefante
Torre dell’Elefante is a historical tower located in the center of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: The tower is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. You can climb the stairs to the top of the tower and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to spot the intricate sculptures on the tower, featuring an elephant carved from limestone, which gave the tower its name.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the tower in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Also, remember to bring a camera and capture the beautiful views from the tower.
9. Marina District
Marina District is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of Cagliari, known for its picturesque streets, scenic harbor views, and lively atmosphere.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the colorful streets, explore the quaint shops and cafes, and admire the beautifully restored old buildings.
Visit the Piazza Yenne, a lively square frequented by locals, and take in the stunning views of the sea from Bastione di Saint Remy, a 13th-century fortress.
Don’t miss: The vibrant street markets held in the district, particularly the Mercato di San Benedetto, where you can taste some of the best Sardinian cuisine and buy fresh seafood, meat, and produce.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit Marina District during the summer months when the area comes alive with street performers, music, and open-air concerts.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are steep hills and cobblestone streets to navigate.
10. Molentargius-Saline Regional Park
A beautiful coastal park located in Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning views of the lagoon, watch flamingos in their natural habitat, hike along the trails, and observe various bird species.
Don’t miss: The chance to see flocks of pink flamingos gathering at the lagoon during the breeding season.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, bring binoculars for bird watching, and avoid visiting during the hottest parts of the day in summer.
Additionally, consider bringing a light jacket as it can get chilly near the lagoon, even in the summer months.
11. San Benedetto Market
A vibrant and bustling outdoor market located in the historic district of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Explore the colorful stands selling fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, seafood, and handmade crafts. Check out the various food stalls selling Sardinian street food like pane frattau and porceddu.
Don’t miss: The fish market, which offers an incredible selection of fresh seafood caught that day.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring cash as most vendors do not accept credit cards. The market can get crowded, so be mindful of your belongings.
Visit early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less hectic atmosphere.
12. Tuvixeddu Necropolis
Tuvixeddu Necropolis is an ancient burial ground located in the heart of Cagliari, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the vast necropolis, which contains around 1,200 tombs carved into the rock dating back to the Phoenician-Punic period.
The tombs vary in size and shape, with some featuring intricate carvings and decorations.
Don’t miss: One of the most fascinating tombs is the Tomb of the Vases, which contains over 30 urns likely used to store food and water for the deceased’s journey to the afterlife.
Insider travel tips: Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be rough and uneven.
13. Sella del Diavolo
Sella del Diavolo is a promontory located in Cagliari, Sardinia, featuring stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city.
What to see or do: Hike the trails around the promontory, take scenic walks along the cliffs, or swim at the nearby beaches. The clear blue waters offer perfect conditions for fishing and water sports enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking panoramas of the city and the Gulf of Cagliari from the highest points of the promontory.
Check out the old lighthouse at the top of the Sella del Diavolo, which is popular for its panoramic views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and take plenty of water. For those who want to explore the area at a more leisurely pace, cycle paths are also available.
It’s best to visit Sella del Diavolo in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
14. Santuario di Nostra Signora di Bonaria
Santuario di Nostra Signora di Bonaria is a Catholic church and shrine located in Cagliari, Sardinia. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Catholics from all over the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture of the church and explore the surrounding gardens.
The interior of the church is also worth seeing, especially the stunning altar and the impressive artwork that lines the walls.
Don’t miss: The highlight of any visit to Santuario di Nostra Signora di Bonaria is seeing the statue of the Virgin Mary.
Legend has it that the statue was found at sea by fishermen and brought to the church, where it has been worshipped for centuries.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the annual pilgrimage in September, when the church is filled with thousands of devoted Catholics from around the world.
15. Saint Raynaldi Church
Saint Raynaldi Church is a Romanesque church located in the heart of the historic center of Cagliari, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture and the intricate decorations inside the church. The church has a simple yet elegant interior with beautiful stained glass windows and a stunning altar.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a look at the unique mosaic on the floor of the church, which dates back to the 12th century.
Also, don’t miss the beautiful frescoes on the walls and ceiling of the apse.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Saint Raynaldi Church during the morning hours when the church is not too crowded. There is no entrance fee, and visitors are required to dress modestly.
Make sure to read up about the history of the church before visiting to fully appreciate this beautiful historic site.