Best things to do in Cagliari

The main beach of Cagliari, Poetto likely takes its name from the Poet's Tower, a rock formation that rises in the distance. White dunes run along the shore for 8 kilometers (5 mi), running parallel to a strip of bars and cafes that provide nightlife for the beachgoers. Some of these offer live music, dance lessons, and karaoke.

One of the most recognizable monuments in Cagliari, Bastione di Saint Remy is a double staircase topped by an archway, which opens onto a terrace built between 1899 and 1902. The terrace is filled with park benches and trees, and overlooks the city and its harbor. You can purchase ice cream and drinks here.

A lovely park with plenty of history, Monte Urpinu also offers unparalleled views of Cagliari and Campidano. The urban green space has belonged to the city of Cagliari since the government bought it during Fascist times. Over the years, it has transformed, including the closing and reforestation of a section that once held a military base during the Cold War. Today this natural attraction serves as a popular spot for picnics, outdoor activities, and photography. Snap great shots of the panoramic views from this vantage point and take notice of the many kinds of trees here, including the Aleppa pines, which were planted in the 19th century.

The Torre dell'Elefante (Italian: "Tower of the Elephant") is a medieval tower in Cagliari, southern Sardinia, Italy. It is located in the Castello historical quarter of the city.

The ancient Roman and pre-Roman archaeological site of Area Archeologica di Nora is an open-air museum, which includes a theater, tower, baths, forum, and mosaics. Take a guided tour through the ruins to hear in-depth detail about the site. The ruins lie at the edge of the sea--some even sit underwater as Sardinia slowly sinks into the ocean--and the optional climb of the tower offers better views.

Spend a lovely time at Marina Piccola, a promenade with a beautiful beach and clear water. In the daytime, visitors stretch out on the white sand or shop for souvenirs. Don't be afraid to bargain with the sellers walking the beach and offering sunglasses, jewelry, and other items. During the evening, the promenade transforms with live music from cafes and restaurants. From here you can also take a day trip or rent one of the small boats to go to neighboring beaches.

Admire the masterful maiolica floor of Chiesa di San Michele, a Jesuit church with marble statues and elaborate paintings. The 18th-century floor represents an elaborate Garden of Eden in vibrant colors. Take a walk around the building and feel the peaceful atmosphere while enjoying the view of numerous decorations, marble statues of saints, and carved wood. Left of the altar look for the sacristy that resembles a museum, with icons dating back to the 17th and 18th century.