Cagliari is Sardinia’s historic capital city, split into four distinctive districts filled with majestic palazzi, seafront cafés and ancient ruins.
Each of Cagliari's districts shows a different side to the city. Castello is where you’ll find a labyrinth of age-old streets home to the medieval tower of Torre Dell Elefante and 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria. A walk through Villanova is recommended for lovers of street art, with many examples found along its quaint, narrow streets. The best nightlife is found in the Marina district, home to lots of waterfront cocktail bars and restaurants. Stampace is also a very lively area, with dozens of places to eat and drink dotted along the main street of Vittorio Emanuele II.
In the centre of Cagliari, you’ll find the city’s architectural centrepiece – the Roman Amphitheatre. Dating back to the 1st century CE, it once held ten thousand spectators who came to witness fierce gladiatorial combat. The city is also home to other incredible structures such as the Royal Palace, the Palazzo Civico and the Shrine of Our Lady of Bonaria.
Just a few minutes from Cagliari’s city centre is Spiaggia Del Poetto, a free beach offering eight kilometres of soft sand, water sports and kiosks serving food and drink. You can also hire pedal boats, deck chairs and parasols if you need some shade.