Why Cagliari?
Cagliari sits at the southern tip of Sardinia, with the Mediterranean lapping at one of Europe's longest urban beaches (Poetto, 8 km). The fortified hilltop centre (Castello) is medieval; the modern city stretches across the bay. Climate is the mildest in Italy — winters rarely drop below 10°C and summers are tempered by the maestrale wind. Rent is moderate by Italian standards. Trade-off: Sardinia is an island; the rest of Italy is a flight (45 min to Rome, 1 hour to Milan) or an overnight ferry away.
Neighbourhoods to know
- Castello. The fortified hilltop centre — narrow lanes, palazzi, panoramic terraces. Atmospheric and photogenic; some apartments lack lifts.
- Marina. Below Castello, near the port — lively, cheaper rents, with the best aperitivo scene.
- Stampace. Western centre — residential, with the city's best food market and family bakeries.
- Poetto. Coastal, near the city beach — summer favourite, residential year-round.
Coworking
- Sardex Lab Cagliari. The most established Cagliari coworking — strong tech community.
- CoWo Cagliari. Central coworking near the historic centre.
- Open Campus. University-affiliated space with startup community.
Things to do
- Spend a day at Poetto beach — the urban beach is 8 km long, with bars and beach clubs along its length.
- Walk the Castello at sunset — the Bastione di Saint Remy terrace gives the best view of the city and the Stagno di Molentargius flamingo lagoon.
- Eat fregola con arselle — Sardinia's pearl-like pasta with clams. Try at a Marina trattoria.
- Day-trip to the south coast: Chia, Tuerredda, and Costa del Sud beaches are some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful.
Practical tip
Sardinia in August is hot and crowded with Italian and German holidaymakers. The shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October) are ideal — warm seas, fewer crowds, and the maestrale wind keeps temperatures pleasant.
Cost figures are estimates as of 2026 and vary by neighbourhood and season. Always cross-check current rents on Idealista and Immobiliare.it.