Located on the sun-kissed southern coast of Sardinia, Cagliari is a city where Roman ruins meet wild beaches, and where flamingos nest just minutes from urban life. With its rich history and jaw-dropping coastal scenery, Cagliari is the perfect base for a one-week adventure that combines culture, nature, relaxation, and exploration. In Cagliari you will sip a glass of wine in a medieval piazza, cycle along Poetto Beach, or swim in the most amazing turquoise waters near Chia. If you stay longer, you will understand why the locals locals are in no rush to leave. Here’s a little itinerary suggested for your one week trip to Cagliari.
Day 1 – Welcome to Cagliari!
Your first day in Cagliari is all about soaking in the soul of the city. Start in the Castello district, Cagliari’s hilltop old town, with its narrow cobbled alleys, pastel façades, and commanding views over the Gulf of Angels. Climb the Bastione di Saint Remy for sweeping vistas, then make your way to the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, a beautiful 13th-century cathedral that blends Pisan Gothic and Baroque influences.
Spend a few hours at the Citadel of Museums, especially the National Archaeological Museum, home to Nuragic bronzes and Roman relics. Check the opening hours and ticket prices directly on the official website here.
In the afternoon, head down to the Marina or Villanova neighborhood for an aperitivo in a quiet piazza. Order a glass of Cannonau red or chilled Vermentino, and finish the day with a local specialty like fregola ai frutti di mare (Sardinian pasta with seafood) at one of the family-run trattorias.
Day 2 – Beach & Bike: Poetto and Molentargius
Today, swap stone streets for sand and saltwater. Rent a bike through the bike sharing app Weelo.it and cycle the Poetto promenade, a wide, palm-lined path that stretches 8 km along the coast. With the Sella del Diavolo (Devil’s Saddle) in the background and the sea just steps away, it’s the perfect ride for beach lovers and breeze chasers.
About halfway along, turn inland to explore the Molentargius – Saline Natural Park, one of the few places in Europe where flamingos live year-round. This sprawling wetland reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a serene contrast to the city. You might even spot cormorants, herons, and the iconic pink flamingos flying in formation above the ponds.
Grab lunch at one of the beach bars (locally called chioschi) along Poetto—fresh seafood, paninis, or even a casual pasta dish. Then either spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or hike up to Sella del Diavolo for panoramic views of the Gulf and the salt flats.
Day 3 – Day Trip: Chia and Its Dreamy Beaches
Time to explore what Sardinia is best known for—those turquoise beaches. Your first day trip takes you southwest to the legendary shores of Chia, around 1.5 hours from Cagliari by car. You can rent a car for a day or two in one of many rentals near the train station. I advise you to rent a car only if you plan to travel outside Cagliari. In the city itself, you don’t need a car because the public transport is excellent and many places are also reachable by bike.
Start at Su Giudeu Beach, a long arc of soft white sand with crystal-clear water and gently sloping seabeds. It’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and you’ll often see flamingos feeding in the pond just behind the dunes.
Next, take a short walk to the secluded Cala Cipolla, a picture-perfect cove framed by fragrant juniper trees and rugged rocks. It’s less crowded, a favorite among locals, and feels like a true escape.
Before heading back to Cagliari, stop at a local agriturismo or beachside trattoria for a hearty lunch—malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) or porceddu (slow-roasted suckling pig) are local staples.
Day 4 – Pula & the Ancient City of Nora
After a day of beach bliss, it’s time to dig into Sardinia’s ancient past.
About 40 minutes from Cagliari lies Pula, a charming town with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and a lively central square, Piazza del Popolo. Spend a little time wandering and grabbing a morning espresso before heading to one of the island’s most important archaeological sites: Nora.
Nora was originally a Phoenician settlement and later a thriving Roman port. Today, you can walk among ancient mosaics, Roman baths, and the remains of a theater that once seated 1,000 spectators. The ruins sit dramatically by the sea, with waves lapping just meters from the ancient stones.
Nearby, the Chiesa di Sant’Efisio, a tiny seaside chapel, marks the spot where the saint was martyred. It’s both peaceful and picturesque.
Finish the day with gelato back in Pula or return to Cagliari for dinner in the Stampace neighborhood.
Day 5 – Nature Escape
Is Cannoneris Forest or Flamingo Watch
Depending on your energy level and interest, Day 5 can take you deep into nature—or offer a gentler immersion.
Is Cannoneris Forest
If you love the nature, opt for a trip trip to the inland Is Cannoneris forest, one of the largest Mediterranean woodlands in Europe. You’ll drive through mountain roads to reach a quiet reserve filled with wild boars, Sardinian deer, and ancient oaks. It’s ideal for a day of hiking or a peaceful picnic under the trees. You need a car to get there but once in the forest you can hike on the well signed trails.
Molentargius Wetlands
If you didn’t have enough flamingo time earlier—or want a slower day—revisit Molentargius Park, this time on foot. Bring binoculars, a camera, and let yourself get lost in the quiet hum of reeds and wings.
Day 6 – Relaxation Day: Poetto or Secret Coves
Return to Poetto Beach for a relaxing swim. Or, if you’re looking for something quieter, visit the hidden coves of Cala Fighera and Cala Mosca, nestled at the foot of the Devil’s Saddle. These beaches are smaller, rockier, and more local—perfect for snorkeling or reading in peace. Later in the day, take a sunset stroll through Monte Urpinu Park, one of Cagliari’s green lungs, with amazing city views from the top.
Day 7 – Last Day: Local Life and Food
On your final day, revisit your favorite neighborhood—be it the old-world charm of Castello, the quiet corners of Villanova, or the bustling Marina filled with restaurants and shops.
You might want to:
- Explore San Benedetto Market, one of Italy’s largest food markets, for fresh pecorino, cured meats, or souvenirs.
- Visit a local art gallery or boutique.
- Enjoy one last aperitivo and a farewell dinner of seadas (cheese-filled fried pastries drizzled in honey) and a chilled glass of mirto liqueur.
As the sun sets over the Gulf of Cagliari, you’ll understand why this city has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
Accommodation
Cagliari offers all sorts of accommodation. Stay in downtown if you want to feel the city’s vibe and have plenty of choice for dinning out. Stay near Poetto if you love the beach vibe. Hotel Nautilus is a top choice for those wanting sea views and easy access to Poetto Beach. It’s clean, comfortable, bike-friendly, and just steps from both the sand and the cycle path.
How to get there?
Getting to Cagliari is easy, whether you’re flying from mainland Europe or arriving from within Italy.
- By Plane: The city is served by Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), located just 7 km from the city center. Direct flights connect Cagliari with major cities like Rome, Milan, Barcelona, Paris, and Munich, especially during summer. Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, and Volotea offer regular service.
- From the Airport to the City:
- By Train: The airport has a quick and convenient train connection to Cagliari Centrale Station (about 7 minutes, €1.30).
- By Taxi or Rideshare: A taxi ride takes around 10–15 minutes and costs about €15–20.
- By Bus: The ARST buses also run to and from the airport, though they are less frequent than trains.
- By Ferry: You can also reach Cagliari by ferry from mainland ports like Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Palermo, operated by companies like Grimaldi Lines and Tirrenia.
Cagliari is more than a gateway to Sardinia’s south—it’s a destination in its own right. With its blend of history, coastal beauty, flamingo-filled wetlands, and laid-back charm, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and savor every moment.
Whether you’re here for the ruins of Nora, the dunes of Chia, or a morning ride along Poetto’s bike lane, your week in Cagliari will be filled with moments that feel like sunshine in your pocket. Interested in the history? Stay tuned, next post will be about the fascinating exploration of ancient Nuraghi civilization – only in Sardinia.
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