Southern Sardinia | Outdoor Activity Guide
Top Sites in Cagliari
Top Beaches
Where to stay
As a solo traveler I recommend staying in the city of Cagliari. I found it to be a lively city with lots to do. It’s also a central base to visit surrounding areas.
Top neighborhoods (map linked below):
• Quartiere Castello
• Quartiere Marina
• Quartiere Stampace
• Quartiere Villanova
I chose to stay in Villanova which was absolutely lovely! The streets throughout this area were adorable and welcoming. The city is also very walkable and you can venture between any of the neighborhoods above on foot.
The Airbnb I stayed in is linked below and was 10/10! Safe, clean, responsive host and comfortable.
Day Trips from Cagliari
Villasimius
Jump on the ARST bus 101 from Cagliari that takes you straight to the area of Villasimius. Walk around town enjoying shops and restaurants or venture on a 25-40 minute walk to the beautiful beaches.
For a break from the beach, take an easy hike along the Capo Carbonara path for some great views.
Chia
Chia is easily accessible from Cagliari via the ARST bus 129. In Chia you’ll find a quaint village nestled between beautiful beaches and white sand dunes.
For a hiking adventure, don’t miss the beautiful hike along the coast which can be easily accessed via Cala Cipolla beach. As a moderately challenging hike, the route leads you to a variety of stunning beaches and viewpoints.
DISCLAIMER: Unfortunately, the route linked below did not lead me all the way to Tuerredda. The trail ended about a mile out; however, I still included the route because the first few miles routed made this hike a highlight during my time in Sardinia.
Devil’s Saddle by Boat
I was visiting Sardinia during the end of April/start of May; and though the weather was perfect for hiking it was a bit too chilly for swimming and snorkeling. However, if you visit during the summer months I recommend joining a boat, kayaking or SUP tour of Devil’s Saddle. A few tours I was eyeing are linked below.
Public Transport Guide
CTM Buses
CTM buses provide easy access to others areas through the city. Tickets can be purchased through the app linked below for as low as €1.30.
ARST Buses
ARST buses connect Cagliari directly to the Villasimius and Chia areas. Tickets can be purchased through the app linked below.
• From Cagliari to/from Villasimius: Bus 101
• From Cagliari to/from Chia: Bus 129
One-way tickets are €3.70.
Make sure to check the timetables for when the buses are scheduled as they do not run as often as the CTM buses.
FAST Scooter Sharing
FAST scooters are eco-friendly vehicles that can be used to easily ride across the city.
Direct Airport Transfer: Connecto
Public buses are available from Cagliari airport to/from city center; though if you prefer a door-to-door transfer, Connecto is an affordable option.
Bonus Info
Top Running Routes in Cagliari
While downtown Cagliari is cramped with shopping, museums, and historic Art Nouveau architecture, there are plenty of open, green spaces for runners along the port, beaches, and local parks. The link below maps out six distinct routes for running in Cagliari.
Go-to Gym: Urban Club Fitness Revolution
There are a variety of gyms in Cagliari, though I decided on Urban Club due to its close vicinity to my Airbnb. The staff is incredibly friendly (English speaking!) and the gym itself is incredible clean offering a wide variety of equipment, machines and free weights. Lockers and showers also available.
Pricing: €15 for a day pass; €40 for a weekly pass
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