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Spending a weekend in the city is always a good idea. A trip within a trip if the city in question is Cagliari. The capital of Sardinia is a true European seaside city. Dynamic and sparkling, kissed by an extraordinary climate for 12 months. Cagliari is first and foremost a seaside city, the large city beach is less than 4 km from the centre, the tourist and commercial port is right in the centre and the whole landscape is deeply connected to water with the presence of ponds and lagoons where the majestic pink flamingos nest.
The most beautiful squares to discover in Cagliari
Cagliari is also a beautiful city, rich in evidence of a long past with four partially pedestrianised historic districts perfect for aimless strolling. It is precisely among these narrow streets that lovely little squares pop up here and there, perfect for a break in the shade and an aperitif. History and culture, nightlife and fun, architecture and breathtaking views; in a small capital that wants to be known for its heritage and beauty. Let’s discover together the 5 squares that most represent the soul of the city of the sun.
Piazza Yenne, the square that never sleeps
This is the heart of Cagliari, one of the most animated places in its centre, in all seasons of the year. Located at the intersection of the Largo Carlo Felice that rises from the port, the Via Manno that goes up towards the Casteddu de Susu (Castello) district and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele III that crosses the Stampaxi (Stampace) district, this square is popular for its many bars and restaurants that spread out their terraces à la française. It is a good choice for aperitifs at sunset, when joined together, tourists and casteddajus (the people of Cagliari, ed.), flow towards the square. I recommend the pizzerias of Grotta Marcello and Incognito. I also suggest the apericena at White Stone, the cocktails at Mojito, and the friendliness of the staff at Elfo (the only LGBTQ+ bar in the centre).
Piazzetta Savoia & Piazza San Sepolcro
Just a stone’s throw from Piazza Yenne, discover the heart of the Marina district, traditionally inhabited by fishermen then partially occupied by the city’s bourgeoisie. The first square (Piazzetta Savoia) is known for its colourful facades, typical of the old town, and for the huge palm tree growing there. The second square (Piazza San Sepolcro) is located next to it, and takes its name from the church that separates Via Giuseppe Manno and Via Giovanni Maria Dettori. There you will find numerous establishments including a host of restaurants ideal for an aperitif or dinner. Discover the bars in the neighbourhood by walking along the streets leading down to the harbour (Via Napoli, Via Barcellona, Via Sardegna) and stop at the restaurant that inspires you most. For an aperitif, you will be spoilt for choice, as there are many places that are very popular with tourists and locals alike, while for dinner I recommend the restaurants Sa Schironada, a must for traditional Sardinian cuisine, Su Cumbidu, with a 100% island seafood or meat menu, and Lillicu, a very popular trattoria with an exquisite seafood menu.
Piazza Costituzione
This is the square that separates the Quartieri della Marina (Bagnària, Lapola in Sardinian), Villanova (Biddanoa) and Castello (Casteddu de Susu). A focal point located at the foot of the splendid Bastione di Saint Remy. More than anything else, this square is an invitation to enter the Villanova district through Via Garibaldi, which will take us to the next square (my favourite!). I recommend the terrace of the Antico Caffè, one of the city’s longest-established and most illustrious bars.
Piazza San Domenico
So here is the square in Cagliari that made me want to drop everything to live there; Piazza San Domenico! This is the heart of the district of Biddanoa (Villanova), in my opinion the most charming district of the city, for its flowery streets, its colourful facades, the tranquillity of its little squares, the kindness of its inhabitants. I recommend the Florio bar for its evenings, the Pirani brasserie (top Sardinian pastry shop) and the Donne shop for exclusive shopping.
Piazza Carlo Alberto
Finally, here is one of the few squares in the Castello district; Piazza Carlo Alberto, located opposite the fantastic front of the Cagliari Cathedral, along the Ruga Dereta (Via Lamarmora). This suburb is remarkable for its breathtaking views, its thousand-year-old history, its noble palaces and its long straight streets, typical of the medieval Pisan urban plan. I recommend visiting the Tower of San Pancrazio and the Cittadella dei Musei in front of it, going down to the crypt of the Cathedral near Piazza Carlo Alberto, and taking a guided tour of the Palazzo Vice-Regio. The most famous venues are the Libarium Nostrum (bastione Santa Croce) and the Caffé degli Spiriti (bastione Saint Remy), which offer a fantastic view of the city.
As accommodation we recommend B&B in Cagliari, flats or holiday homes in the city, with air conditioning and Internet.
