Cagliari: Archaeology, Nature and Coast

Parco di Tuvixeddu covers about three and a half hectares; finds in the area provide evidence of human settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. Tuvixeddu is also home to the Punic-Phoenician necropolis, which dates from between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC and is considered the largest necropolis in the entire Mediterranean region.

Archaeological Traces and the History of the City

The Roman amphitheatre of Cagliari probably dates from the late 2nd century AD. A 95-metre-long corridor is still accessible there and leads to a large underground cistern in Orto dei Cappuccini. You can visit without booking in advance; check the latest access information before your visit.

The underground archaeological route of Sant’Eulalia also offers a glimpse into the past: it includes 13 metres of paved road, which was probably connected to port activities at the time. Stampace developed in the 13th century at the foot of the imposing walls of Castello. The neighbourhood was once home to numerous workshops belonging to artists and craftspeople.

The Cittadella dei Musei is considered the city’s most important cultural centre. Another prominent structure is the Bastione di Saint Remy, built on the old defensive walls along the medieval boundary of Cagliari. It comprises the Umberto I panoramic terrace and the Passeggiata Coperta gallery below. Giuseppe Costa and Fulgenzio Setti designed the monumental structure in 1896; it was inaugurated in 1902.

Wetlands, Trails and Coastal Views

Molentargius-Saline Regional Park covers about 1,600 hectares between Cagliari and Quartu Sant’Elena, along the Poetto waterfront. The wetland was added to the Ramsar Convention list in 1977. As you make your way through the park, you can spot hundreds of pink flamingos and other wild birds in the shallow water.

The park offers free access, as well as nature trails, cycle paths and walking routes; activities also include birdwatching and jogging. Guided tours can be booked for groups. If you plan to join one, confirm the latest access and tour information before your trip.

Sella del Diavolo and the entire Sant’Elia headland consist of Miocene sedimentary rocks. Small caves formed in the rocks, and people have lived in them since the 6th millennium BC. Sella del Diavolo can be reached via a green trail that passes through areas of archaeological, ecological, environmental and scenic interest. From the Sant’Elia headland, the view stretches along Viale Poetto to Capo Carbonara and out to the open sea.

Poetto Beach stretches for about seven kilometres along the Gulf of Angels, from Sella del Diavolo to the coastal area of Quartu. Cagliari therefore offers a variety of nature experiences, from views of the open sea to birdwatching in the wetland’s shallow waters.

Botanical Gardens, Markets and Local Cuisine

Cagliari’s Orto Botanico is home to about 2,000 plant species. Most are native to the Mediterranean region, alongside succulents and tropical plants. Roman cisterns and fountains are also part of the garden, adding archaeological traces to the botanical experience.

The markets offer a chance to experience city life, traditions and neighbourhood stories, and to get a taste of the old town’s authentic flavours. Cagliari’s characteristic food and drink include pasta with sea urchins, a fish soup made with simple varieties of fish, suckling pig with myrtle, fregola with clams, as well as Vermentino, Cannonau and myrtle liqueur.

Getting There and Planning Your Stay

From Elmas Aeroporto station, the train takes about six minutes to reach the station in Cagliari city centre. Timetables and fares may change, so check the latest information before travelling. This will help you plan your stay around the experiences that interest you most.

The official “Cagliari in One Day” route was designed for cruise passengers. It combines historic neighbourhoods, artefacts from the Nuragic culture, viewpoints, a beach visit and flamingo watching.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Chia, Flumini, Is Arenas, Escalaplano, Gergei, Vallermosa, Villasalto, Siliqua, Sitò, Serdiana, Dolianova, Costa Rei, Seulo, Villasor, Ballao, Torre Delle Stelle, Donori, Armungia, Perd'e Sali, San Sperate, San Nicolò Gerrei, Sant'Isidoro, Notteri, Isili, Villaspeciosa, San Vito, Nuragus, Decimoputzu, Olia Speciosa, Nurallao, L'annunziata, Decimomannu, Senorbì, San Basilio, Nurri, Pula, Quartu Sant'elena, Tratalias, Maracalagonis, Sestu, Villa San Pietro, Uta, Soleminis, Quartucciu, Sarroch, Mandas, Porto Tramatzu, Sadali, La Maddalena, Monserrato, Monastir, Campulongu, Camisa, Cagliari, Capitana, Villaputzu, Santa Margherita Di Pula, Teulada, Sinnai, Capoterra, San Priamo, Selargius, Orroli, Assemini, Domus De Maria, Muravera, Villasimius, Escolca.

For the overview of the wider area: Sardinia.