Must-Do Activities in Cagliari, Sardinia

Explore Historical Landmarks

Cagliari's rich history spans thousands of years. Established by the Phoenicians during the Neolithic Age, it has been occupied and influenced by various groups throughout the centuries, including the Carthaginians, Romans, and Piedmontese. This extensive history has left the city with a treasure trove of historical sites both within and around its borders, such as:

• Nora: the ruins of an ancient city located just southwest of Cagliari.
• Su Nuraxi di Barumini: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a well-preserved example of nuraghi, a type of defensive structure from the second century B.C. — regarded as the "finest and most complete example of this remarkable prehistoric architecture.".
• Torre di San Pancrazio: a medieval tower completed in 1305, built on the highest point in Cagliari, standing 36 meters tall.
• Elephant Tower: a twin tower to Torre di San Pancrazio, constructed in 1307 and reaching 42 meters in height.
• The Roman Amphitheater of Cagliari: an arena for gladiator contests and executions, carved into the limestone of Buoncammino hill between the first and second centuries A.D.
• Bastion Saint Remy: a more modern structure and a city symbol, built between 1896 and 1902 in the Classic style.

To explore these remarkable historical sites, consider taking advantage of some of Dinogo's convenient short excursions in Cagliari, such as the four-hour Walk Through Ancient Times experience in Nora or the four-hour exploration of Barumini.

Embark on a Tasting Tour

Sardinia boasts a wealth of delicious food, and Cagliari is the perfect place to indulge in its culinary delights. Here are some staple dishes you might encounter during your city exploration:

• Pardulas: small star-shaped tarts filled with a delightful blend of ricotta cheese, citrus, and saffron.
• Suppa cuata: a comforting dish made from layers of stale bread, broth, and cheese, resembling a casserole.
• Porcetto arrosto: a slow-roasted suckling pig seasoned with aromatic herbs.
• Pane carasau: a thin, twice-baked bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt.
• Pecorino fiore sardo: a renowned Sardinian sheep's milk cheese with protected designation of origin.

This is just a glimpse of the incredible food awaiting you in Cagliari's restaurants and markets. For an extensive taste of local cuisine, we highly recommend visiting the Mercato di San Benedetto, a vast indoor market covering over 86,000 square feet, featuring premium local food products.

Immerse Yourself in Natural Beauty

For those looking to relax during their day at port, Cagliari offers plenty of attractions. The beach is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Some of the best beaches in the city include:

• Poetto: a five-mile stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters—perfect for strolling, cycling, or simply sunbathing while listening to the gentle waves.
• Calamosca: a peaceful and breathtaking beach located close to Poetto, recognized for the iconic Sella del Diavolo landmark.
• Cala Fighera: a favored cove among naturists, also appealing to outdoor enthusiasts due to the challenging hike needed to access it.

If you're up for a short trip outside of Cagliari, consider visiting the Riserva Naturale di Monte Arcosu, a 3,600-hectare nature reserve supported by the World Wildlife Fund. It's home to a variety of remarkable wildlife, including wild boar, wildcats, birds of prey, and the endemic cervo sardo (Sardinian deer). Plus, the Dinogo Monte Arcosu 4X4 Nature Quest shore excursion makes it easy to explore the area, featuring a four-hour nature adventure followed by a delicious snack and local Sardinian wine.