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Two Perfect Days in Cagliari: Exploring the City Like a Local
A personal guide to the finest spots and must-visit places.
Cagliari is a city that captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture and medieval charm. Over two days, your can explored its hidden corners, indulged in its flavors and soak up its warm Mediterranean spirit. This guide will take you on a personal journey through the places that left a mark on us — through the best of Cagliari, offering personal tips, detailed routes and insights that will make your visit unforgettable.
Day One: A Taste of Tradition and Coastal Charm
Morning: Cappuccino Rituals and Markets
Start your day at Caffè Svizzero, an institution and a favorite among locals. This cozy café near Via Roma is the perfect spot for a morning coffee. We both order cappuccinos here (as real Germans famously do in Italy), but only before midday to avoid the good-natured jokes Sardinians love to make about cappuccino-drinking tourists! The atmosphere is relaxed, the staff friendly, and the buttery pastries are simply divine.
From here, head to Via Garibaldi, the main shopping street in Cagliari. This bustling thoroughfare is a mix of international and Italian brands, but the real charm lies in wandering into Villanova. This neighborhood is a colorful maze of small streets lined with beautifully painted houses and vibrant flowers that residents arrange to make their streets even more welcoming. Don’t miss Piazza San Giacomo and Piazza San Domenico. Both are small but picturesque and perfect for photos — or simply to soak up the tranquil charm of the area.
Then, head to Mercato di San Benedetto, one of Europe’s largest indoor markets. Arrive early to see it in full swing. The upper level is packed with vendors selling fresh produce, bread, spices, wines, and sweets, while the lower level is a bustling fish market where local fishermen shout about their daily catches. The energy here is infectious. But never buy fish on Mondays — Sunday is a rest day for fishermen, so the freshest catches are sold on other days. Visiting in the morning in high-season is key to avoiding the midday crowds.
Our Tip: Treat yourself to a unique Sardinian gelato at I Fenu Gelateria e Pasticceria. This family-run gelateria specializes in flavors that highlight Sardinian ingredients, like ricotta and abbamele (a traditional honey). Paired with the creamy pistachio gelato, it’s a uniquely Sardinian flavor experience you won’t forget!
Afternoon: SUP Tour at Sella del Diavolo
After exploring the market, it’s time to head to Poetto Beach. From Marina (Via Roma), take the PQ or PF bus — it’s a quick 15-minute ride. Close to Poetto, at Piccola Marina, the SUP Tours (Stand-Up Paddle) to Sella del Diavolo start. You can book online or for groups simply ask us for a contact. The tour with Marco is one of our favorite ways to see the coast. The views are stunning and the tour is often accompanied by music. You can bring your own floating lunch, making it feel like a small party on the water. Don’t shy away from joining Italian-speaking tours — they’re lively, and Italians are great at making themselves understood. You’ll make friends in no time. If you’re hungry afterward, stop by one of the chiosco along the beach for a Sardinian pizzetta or panino. These simple snacks are perfect for recharging before the next part of your adventure.
Our Tip: Always buy a ticket before boarding the bus, as they are frequently checked. You can download the Bus Finder app (and don’t forget to validate the ticket when you enter — we have paid fines more than once).
Evening: Sunset at Bastione and Dinner at Impasto
As the day winds down, make your way back to the city and head to the Bastione di Saint Remy. The climb up can be steep, but the panoramic views of the city and sea from the terrace are worth it, we promise. Stroll around, take in the sights, and enjoy the golden hour as the city begins to glow. For sunset, settle in at Libarium Nostrum. Sip on a spritz and nibble on marinated olives as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. If you’re visiting during high season, make a reservation for outdoor seating to secure the best views.
When it’s time for dinner, head down the Bastione to Impasto. Just a short walk from Libarium, this place is known for its exceptional pizzas and handmade pastas. The atmosphere is cozy, and every dish is crafted with care. Read our full article on Impasto to get a deeper dive into why this place is a must-visit!
Day Two: History, Nature and Culinary Adventures
Morning: Artful Coffee and Market Treasures
Start your day at Caffè dell’Arte, a café that takes coffee to an art form. The walls are adorned with paintings by the owners, and the vibe is as creative as the coffee itself. We love to come here when it's too hot outside and we want to escape the crowded bars in the city center. We recommend pairing your drink with a light breakfast and enjoy the calm start to your day.
Our Tip: On Sundays, head to Piazza del Carmine to explore the flea market. It’s open from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM and is filled with antiques, vintage books, and quirky treasures.
Afternoon: Underground Secrets and Flamingos
Next, return to the Bastione di Saint Remy for the famous underground tour that feels like stepping into the heartbeat of Cagliari’s past. Beneath the bustling streets and sunlit piazzas lies a labyrinth of crypts, caves, and passages that tell stories of survival, faith, and ingenuity. Guided tours in English usually run twice daily during the season and last about two hours. When you come back to daylight and are in the mood for shopping, stop by Rinascente, Cagliari’s most famous shopping center.
Our Tip: If you are hungry, don’t miss the rooftop restaurant at Rinascente — it’s the perfect spot to grab lunch with panoramic views of the city while taking a break from browsing their luxury offerings.
After lunch, you are ready to explore the area outside the city! Rent an e-bike from a local shop in Marina. Renting locally is often cheaper than booking online. Cycle to Molentargius-Saline Regional Park along the Su Siccu Seafront. This route offers stunning views of the harbor and passes landmarks like the Basilica of Bonaria with its massive cemetery on the backside. If there’s one place in Cagliari that feels like stepping into a watercolor painting, it’s the Molentargius. Just a short ride from the bustling Marina district, this nature reserve is a peaceful oasis where the air hums with birdsong, and the landscapes seem almost unreal in their beauty. Sometimes, we just walk here to enjoy the colors and the serene atmosphere.
Our Tip: The park itself is best visited in spring or autumn, especially in the late afternoon when the light is soft and the flamingos are most active. On your way stop at Galleria del Sale to see vibrant murals adorn concrete walls, juxtaposed against the soft pastel tones of the salt flats in the distance.
Evening: Sunset and Culinary Delights
And for sunset? Wait for this! You start cycling through the quieter, slightly desolate outskirts of Cagliari, but as you reach the Quartiere del Sole, the scenery transforms into something truly enchanting. From here, it’s time to grab your smartphone — because the stunning views at these next two spots are nothing short of breathtaking and absolutely Instagram-worthy! Reaching Le Terrazze di Calamosca, you’ll find a laid-back terrace perched above a secluded bay. The setting is simple yet stunning — crystal-clear waters lapping against rocky shores, framed by the soft hues of the surrounding cliffs. It’s the perfect spot to pause, sip a drink, and soak in the peaceful vibe. But if you’re in the mood for something a bit fancy, keep riding toward La Paillote. The road winds slightly uphill before descending to this chic seaside retreat nestled on the cliffs of Cala Fighera. Here, the atmosphere shifts to an upscale yet relaxed elegance. The views are nothing short of breathtaking, with the open sea stretching endlessly before you and the sun setting the horizon ablaze in hues of gold and crimson.
Our Tips: Le Terrazze is open for most of the year, while La Paillote closes during the winter season (usually October to April). Be sure to check their opening hours in advance, and if you’re visiting during high season, make a reservation to secure the best seats with a view!
It’s time to head back to the city! Drop off your bike and take a moment to soak in the energy of Cagliari’s lively streets. If you haven’t eaten yet, this is the perfect time to indulge in the city’s culinary magic. Cagliari’s food scene is as diverse as its history, offering everything from comforting Sardinian classics to inventive fusion cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for tradition or something with a creative twist, here are two fantastic dinner options that cater to very different tastes:
- Sabores Bottega e Cucina: This cozy spot offers Sardinian classics with a modern twist. Their charcuterie boards and hearty pastas are complemented by excellent wine pairings.
- Bar Pipette: For a more experimental evening, this intimate restaurant blends Italian and Japanese flavors. The innovative dishes and cozy atmosphere make it a favorite for adventurous diners.
Our Take: For timeless tradition and rich Sardinian flavors, go with Sabores. For an evening of culinary exploration and playful creativity, choose Bar Pipette. Honestly? You can’t go wrong with either—they’re both uniquely exceptional.
Why You Should Visit Cagliari
Cagliari is a city that reveals itself slowly, with each corner offering something unique to discover. From vibrant markets to tranquil parks, historic landmarks to innovative dining, these two days capture the essence of what makes Cagliari so special. Follow this guide, and you’ll experience the city not as a tourist, but as a welcomed guest.
We hope this mini-guide inspires your own perfect two days in Cagliari, whether it’s your first time here or you’re rediscovering its magic. A few parting tips to make your experience even better:
Plan Ahead
For popular spots like Libarium Nostrum, Impasto or La Paillote, reservations are a must in high season.
Dress Comfortably
Cagliari’s hills and cobblestones are beautiful, but they’re easier to explore in good shoes! And bring a sweater for the chilly evenings, also during summer!
Live Like a Cagliaritano
Start your day with a quick breakfast and a strong coffee (standing at the bar, of course!), spend the day exploring outdoors, and finish with a leisurely aperitivo before dinner.
Talk to Locals
The people of Sardinia are incredibly curious and welcoming. They love hearing about other places and cultures. Even if English is limited, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation—they won’t disappoint you!
Cagliari is a city to experience and savor. We hope our guide inspires your journey and helps you see this beautiful city through the eyes of someone who loves it deeply. So pack your curiosity, a good pair of shoes, and a hearty appetite — Cagliari is waiting to welcome you.
