Where to Stay in Cagliari, Italy: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Trying to figure out where to stay in Cagliari? You’re in the right place!

While Cagliari is smaller than many Italian cities, choosing the right area still matters more than you might expect. The historic center is split into distinct neighborhoods spread across hills and lower districts, each offering a different pace, atmosphere, and level of convenience. Add in the city beach at Poetto, and suddenly your choice comes down to more than just price.

Whether you want to be surrounded by history, stay somewhere calm and local, or wake up steps from the sea, Cagliari has a neighborhood that fits. To make things easy, we’ve broken down the best areas to stay and included hotel picks for every budget, so you can find the perfect base for your trip. Let’s get to it!

Where to Stay Cagliari Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Cagliari

Cagliari might be compact, but choosing the right area to stay can make a big difference to how your trip feels. Some neighborhoods are perfect for walking everywhere and soaking up the city’s energy, while others are better suited to quiet evenings, historic charm, or beach-focused stays. Deciding what matters most to you—walkability, nightlife, history, or easy beach access—will help narrow things down quickly.

Most of Cagliari’s main sights, restaurants, and nightlife are clustered in the historic center, which is made up of four districts: La Marina, Castello, Villanova, and Stampace. These neighborhoods sit close together, making it easy to explore on foot, though the city is famously hilly, especially around Castello, so expect steep streets and stairs. 

Buses and the Trenino Cagliaritano help bridge the gaps, while Poetto Beach is best reached by bus rather than walking. All of this makes choosing the right area less about distance and more about the kind of stay you want.

• La Marina (Marina District) – Best for first-timers – This is the easiest area to stay if it’s your first time in Cagliari, with flat streets, nonstop dining options, and great transport connections right by the port. Hotel Aristeo offers a comfortable, well-located base that lets you explore the historic center mostly on foot.

• Castello – Best for history lovers – Perched high above the city, Castello is packed with landmarks, panoramic viewpoints, and medieval streets that feel straight out of another era. Albergo Diffuso Birkin Castello places you right inside the old town, surrounded by history from the moment you step outside.

• Villanova – Best for a calm and charming stay – This pretty, residential neighborhood sits close to the action but feels quieter and more local than La Marina. For a peaceful stay just steps from the Bastione and the historic center, MYO Cagliari Charming House is a great choice here.

• Stampace – Best for value & local life – Stampace has a more lived-in, everyday feel, with better value accommodations and fewer tourists, while still being very central. Sa Domu Cheta captures the area’s character perfectly with its warm, family-run atmosphere and historic setting.

• Poetto – Best for relaxation & beach time – If your priority is sun, sea, and slowing down, Poetto is Cagliari’s go-to beach neighborhood, stretching for miles along the coast. Le Palmette Suites offers a charming seaside stay that lets you focus on beach days and relaxed evenings by the water.

Where to Stay in Cagliari

La Marina (Marina District)

BEST FOR FIRST TIMERS

Pros

• Flat and central, right by the port and train station
• Tons of restaurants, bars, shops, and easy transport connections

Cons

• Lively nightlife can mean noise
• Very popular area, so it feels busy during peak season

La Marina is hands-down the easiest place to stay if it’s your first time in Cagliari. Sitting right along the waterfront near the port and train station, this flat, central district makes getting in, out, and around the city refreshingly simple. 

You can roll your suitcase in without tackling hills, then head straight out to explore on foot. Restaurants, wine bars, cafés, gelato shops, and boutiques line the streets, giving the area a constant buzz from morning espresso to late-night drinks.

Via Roma and the waterfront promenade are right here, perfect for evening strolls with harbor views, while the lively Porto area adds to the energy. Mercato San Benedetto, one of the city’s most famous food markets, is also nearby and well worth a visit for local produce, seafood, and casual bites. From La Marina, it’s an easy walk to Stampace and Villanova, and while Castello sits uphill, it’s still close enough to reach on foot if you’re up for a short climb.

This area suits travelers who want convenience, atmosphere, and nonstop dining options. Just keep in mind that nightlife can be noisy, so light sleepers should choose accommodations carefully.

Palazzo Tirso MGallery Cagliari – $$$

Palazzo Tirso MGallery Cagliari feels like a refined retreat right in the middle of Cagliari’s buzz. Sitting along the waterfront in La Marina, this elegant hotel blends modern luxury with a location that makes exploring the city incredibly easy. Step outside and you’re immediately on Via Roma, with the harbor, shops, and restaurants all within a short walk.

One of the highlights is the rooftop pool and terrace with lovely sea views, an ideal spot to relax after a day of exploring. Rooms are stylish, spacious, and well soundproofed, and the hotel also features a spa, gym, and several dining options, including a breakfast that guests consistently rave about.

Overall, Palazzo Tirso is a fantastic choice if you want a polished, upscale stay without sacrificing location. Prices typically range from €200 to €1,000+ per night, depending on room type and season.

See room options and secure your stay here!

If Palazzo Tirso is fully booked, Casa Clàt – Boutique Hotel is a great boutique-style alternative with a similarly polished feel. It offers elegant rooms and a quieter atmosphere while still keeping you close to the waterfront and La Marina’s main sights.

For travelers who love views but want something more intimate, Oasi Urbana con Terrazza e Vista is a solid pick. This stylish stay focuses on comfort and terrace views, making it a relaxing base in the heart of the district.

Hotel Aristeo – $$

Hotel Aristeo is a solid mid-range option in La Marina that focuses on comfort, service, and an excellent location rather than flashy extras. It’s a great choice if you want to stay central and walk everywhere, but don’t need full-on luxury to enjoy your time in Cagliari. The hotel sits close to the waterfront and main sights, making it easy to explore the historic center, restaurants, and shops on foot.

Rooms are modern, clean, and well-equipped, with air-conditioning, soundproofing, and some offering lovely sea views. One thing guests consistently rave about is the breakfast, which includes local specialties, fresh pastries, and a wide variety of options to start the day right. For the location, prices are very reasonable, usually between €90 to €240 per night, depending on your room choice.

Find the best deals and book Hotel Aristeo here!

Nero Luxury Suites leans more boutique and design-forward, with sleek interiors and a contemporary feel. It’s a great fit for travelers who want a stylish stay in La Marina while remaining close to the waterfront and city sights.

Offering a more classic atmosphere, Hotel Regina Margherita provides a comfortable and quieter base in a central location. This hotel works especially well for couples or travelers who prefer calm evenings without giving up easy access to the city.

Arcobaleno Rooms – $

Arcobaleno Rooms is a smart budget pick in La Marina that still delivers charm and a great location. Set in the historic center just a short walk from the harbor, this small guesthouse is ideal for travelers who want to stay central without paying higher hotel prices. It’s especially convenient for short stays or city-focused itineraries.

Rooms are simple but thoughtfully designed, featuring air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and handcrafted Sardinian-style furnishings. Some rooms include balconies, adding a nice extra touch at this price point. 

The building is spread over two floors with no elevator, so expect stairs, but you’re rewarded with an excellent walkable location close to the train station, waterfront, and dining spots. Most rooms are priced around €45 to €115 per night. 

Check availability and book your stay here!

Vela Rooms keeps things simple and central, much like Arcobaleno Rooms, making it an easy base for exploring La Marina on foot. It’s a good pick if you mainly want a comfortable place to crash between sightseeing, meals, and late nights out.

If you liked Arcobaleno Rooms for its character, Residenza le Scalette leans into that same old-town charm. Set along Cagliari’s classic stepped streets, it’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a few stairs in exchange for atmosphere and a truly local feel.

Castello

BEST FOR HISTORY LOVERS

Pros

• Incredible views over the city and sea from the hilltop
• Home to Cagliari’s most important historic landmarks

Cons

• Steep streets, stairs, and limited vehicle access
• Quieter at night with fewer dining options

Castello is Cagliari’s oldest and most atmospheric district, perched high above the city on a limestone hill. Staying here feels like stepping into a different era, with medieval walls, narrow stone streets, and panoramic viewpoints around nearly every corner. This area is ideal for travelers who want to be surrounded by history and don’t mind trading convenience for character.

Many of Cagliari’s top sights are right on your doorstep, including the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, the impressive Bastione di Saint Remy and Terrazza Umberto I, and the iconic Torre dell’Elefante and Torre di San Pancrazio. Wandering through Castello is an experience in itself, whether you’re ducking into small museums, admiring centuries-old architecture, or stopping to take in sweeping views over the harbor and rooftops below.

That said, Castello isn’t the easiest area to navigate. Streets are steep, stair-heavy, and often closed to cars, making it less suitable for travelers with mobility concerns or heavy luggage. Evenings here are calm and peaceful, with far fewer bars and restaurants than in La Marina. For history lovers who appreciate quiet nights and unforgettable views, Castello delivers a truly memorable stay.

Le Torri – $$$

Le Torri is a fantastic choice if you want to fully lean into Castello’s historic atmosphere while enjoying the comfort of a self-catering apartment. Set right in the heart of the old town, these apartments put you steps from landmarks like Santa Croce Cathedral and within easy wandering distance of Castello’s viewpoints and quiet piazzas. Staying here really feels like living inside history rather than just visiting it.

Apartments are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with full kitchenettes, air conditioning, and small touches such as exposed wooden beams or private balconies. It’s an especially good fit for couples who like having extra space and the flexibility to cook or enjoy slower mornings. 

While you’ll still need to navigate Castello’s stairs and narrow streets, the location more than makes up for it. Prices generally range from €110 to €130 per night. 

Browse apartment options and book your stay here!

For a more boutique-style stay in Castello, Saint Amand by Palazzo Boyl adds a touch of elegance to the historic setting. It’s a great choice for travelers who like Le Torri’s location but prefer a more hotel-style experience with refined details.

Albergo Diffuso Birkin Castello – $$

Albergo Diffuso Birkin Castello is a fun middle-ground option if you want to stay right inside Castello without booking a full apartment. The hotel is spread across historic buildings just steps from the cathedral, which makes the whole experience feel very “old town” in the best way. It’s perfect if you love atmosphere but still want the ease of hotel-style comfort.

Rooms and suites are stylish and comfortable, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies in some rooms. Even though you’re right in the center of Castello, many rooms face quiet streets, so nights are surprisingly peaceful. 

Breakfast is included and well-loved by guests, making it easy to start the day before wandering Castello’s narrow streets and viewpoints. Prices hover around €60 to €190 per night, depending on availability.

Take a look at availability and book your stay here!

If you want the same great location but want a more apartment-style setup, Residenza Kastrum is a great fit. It offers a similar historic setting with a bit more space and independence, perfect for slower mornings in Castello.

For another great option, Residenze al Castello leans fully into Castello’s old-world charm, with rooms tucked among the district’s narrow lanes. It’s a nice option for travelers who want the same central, atmospheric stay as Birkin Castello but with a quieter, more low-key feel.

Al Duomo di Cagliari – $

Al Duomo di Cagliari is all about location, and it doesn’t get much better than this. Sitting right next to the cathedral, this small guesthouse puts you in the absolute heart of Castello, with major landmarks like Torre dell’Elefante and the National Archaeological Museum just steps away. If you want to roll out of bed and straight into history, this place delivers.

Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, with air conditioning, soundproofing, and private bathrooms. Some rooms even come with views over the surrounding historic streets, which adds to the experience without pushing the price up. 

There’s no luxury fluff here, but everything is well-maintained and thoughtfully set up for a short, city-focused stay. This is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers who care more about location than extras. Rooms typically fall between €75 and €100 per night.

Browse availability and snag your dates here!

For something a little more polished but still very central, Bianca Dimora is a lovely alternative in Castello. It offers a calm, stylish stay just steps from the same historic landmarks, making it ideal for travelers who want location and comfort without splurging.

Villanova

BEST FOR A CALM AND CHARMING STAY

Pros

• Peaceful, residential feel with lots of local character
• Close to the historic center without the crowds

Cons

• Limited nightlife compared to La Marina
• Fewer large hotels, mostly smaller boutique stays

Villanova is one of Cagliari’s prettiest neighborhoods and a great choice if you want to stay central without being in the middle of the city’s busiest areas. This historic district feels more residential and lived-in, with quiet streets, colorful buildings, and a slower pace that’s easy to appreciate after a day of sightseeing. It sits right below Castello, and within walking distance of the main attractions, but without the constant buzz you’ll find in La Marina.

The area is especially known for its boutique shopping, with some of the best stretches along Via Sulis, Via Garibaldi, and Via San Giovanni. You’ll also find charming cafés, bakeries, and local restaurants that feel geared more toward residents than tourists. Piazza San Domenico and the nearby Chiostro di San Domenico add to the neighborhood’s relaxed atmosphere and give it a distinctly local feel.

Villanova suits couples, solo travelers, and anyone who prefers calm evenings and character over nightlife. While you won’t find many late-night bars here, the trade-off is quieter nights and a more authentic slice of Cagliari life, all while staying within easy walking distance of the city’s highlights.

Neko Boutique Hotel – $$$

Neko Boutique Hotel is a lovely match for Villanova’s calm, charming vibe. Tucked into this residential neighborhood, it offers a quieter stay while still keeping you within easy walking distance of Cagliari’s historic sights. It’s especially popular with couples, and the atmosphere feels relaxed, stylish, and thoughtfully put together.

Rooms are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and a clean, minimalist design. There’s a small shared lounge for downtime, and while breakfast isn’t served on-site, there are several great cafés just steps away, which fits perfectly with the local feel of Villanova. 

From here, you can walk to landmarks like Bastione di Saint Remy and Torre dell’Elefante, then come back to a peaceful base at night. Rooms usually go for around €120 to €400 per night. 

Get more details and plan your stay here!

For a similarly stylish stay with a more laid-back, apartment-style feel, Casa Lounge Costituzione is a great option in Villanova. It’s ideal for travelers who like a calm location but want a bit more space and independence during their stay.

MYO Cagliari Charming House – $$

MYO Cagliari Charming House sits right on the edge of Villanova and Castello, making it a great pick if you want calm surroundings with instant access to Cagliari’s top sights. The Bastione di Saint Remy is just a short walk away, so you’re never far from viewpoints, cafés, or the historic center, yet evenings here stay pleasantly quiet. 

Rooms are bright, comfortable, and thoughtfully set up, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies in select rooms. The overall feel is relaxed and homey rather than hotel-like, which fits Villanova’s slower pace perfectly. You won’t find lots of on-site extras, but everything you need is close by, including restaurants, shops, and transport.

If you’re after a comfortable, well-located stay with a calm, residential feel, MYO Cagliari Charming House is a solid choice. Nightly rates typically range from €90 to €225 per night, depending on the room type. 

Find the best rooms and grab your spot here!

With a more design-forward, boutique feel, PLEY Boutique Del Centro is a nice step up in style while keeping the same central, walkable location. It’s a great fit for travelers who like MYO’s calm vibe but want something a bit more polished.

Set right near the Bastione, this stay leans into location and views. Al Bastione di Cagliari is ideal for travelers who want easy access to Castello’s viewpoints while still enjoying quieter nights just outside the busiest streets.

Eva Luxury Myrtus – $

Eva Luxury Myrtus is a great budget-friendly option in Villanova if you want to stay central without losing that calm, local feel. Sitting just a short walk from the Bastione di Saint Remy, it puts you close to Cagliari’s main sights while still feeling tucked away from the busier streets. It’s great if you want location and value without splurging.

Rooms are cozy, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies in some units. There’s also a terrace and shared spaces where you can relax between outings, plus an optional breakfast with fresh pastries to get the day started. The overall vibe is simple and welcoming rather than flashy, which fits Villanova perfectly.

If you’re after an affordable, well-located stay with a relaxed atmosphere, Eva Luxury Myrtus is a solid pick. You’ll generally find rooms priced between €60 to €180 per night, depending on the season. 

Secure this budget-friendly stay in Villanova here!

If you want something a bit more polished in this location, SuitesGaribaldi is a nice step up. It keeps the same central Villanova feel while offering sleeker rooms and a slightly more refined vibe.

Staying within the same family of properties, EVA LUXURY ROOMS CAGLIARI offers a similar value-focused experience with a bit more emphasis on comfort and modern design. It’s a good fit for travelers who want familiarity and a convenient base near the historic center.

Related Read: To make sure you don’t miss out on the best of Cagliari, have a look at our expert itinerary here!

Stampace

BEST FOR VALUE AND LOCAL LIFE

Pros

• More affordable accommodations for a central location
• Authentic, local atmosphere with fewer tourists

Cons

• Less polished than other historic districts
• Nightlife is quiet compared to La Marina

Stampace is a great pick if you want to stay somewhere central while getting a more down-to-earth look at everyday life in Cagliari. This historic district feels lived in rather than curated, with local shops, neighborhood cafés, and residential streets that show a different side of the city. It’s still very walkable and well-connected, making it easy to reach the main sights without paying premium prices.

One of Stampace’s biggest advantages is value. Accommodations here are often more affordable than in Castello or La Marina, especially for larger rooms or longer stays. The area is home to several important landmarks, including the Torre dello Sperone, the Church of San Michele and its surrounding complex, and the Botanical Gardens (Orto Botanico), which are perfect for a quieter afternoon break from sightseeing.

Stampace doesn’t have the same buzz or nightlife as La Marina, but that’s part of its appeal. Evenings are relaxed, with low-key bars and casual dining rather than loud crowds. This area suits budget-conscious travelers, longer stays, and anyone who enjoys seeing how locals actually live while still being within easy walking distance of Cagliari’s historic center.

Boutique Hotel Carlo Felice- $$$

If you want Stampace’s local feel without giving up comfort or a prime location, Boutique Hotel Carlo Felice is a great choice. Sitting right by Piazza Yenne, it places you at the crossroads between Stampace, Marina, and the rest of the historic center, so getting around on foot is incredibly easy. 

It’s a smart pick for travelers who want value and convenience in one place. Rooms are modern, quiet, and well equipped, with air conditioning, soundproofing, and city views that remind you you’re right in the middle of things. The overall style is simple and polished rather than flashy, which suits Stampace perfectly. 

You’re also just a short walk from sights like the Church of Saint Ephysius and the Botanical Gardens, making sightseeing easy without constant uphill climbs. Expect prices to range from €60 to €200 per night, depending on your room choice. 

Browse room options and plan your stay here!

If you want something with a bit more old-world character, Antico Corso Charme leans into Stampace’s historic side and is in the same great location. It’s a cozy, atmospheric stay that feels very local, perfect for travelers who enjoy charm over polish.

For a slightly more modern take on staying in Stampace, Suites 1955 offers clean lines and a comfortable, apartment-style setup. It’s a good fit for travelers who want the same walkable location as Carlo Felice with a bit more space and independence.

Sa Domu Cheta – $$

Sa Domu Cheta is one of those places that immediately feels warm and personal, the kind of stay that fits Stampace’s local vibe perfectly. This small, family-run guesthouse sits inside a historic building just a short walk from the harbor, train station, and main sights, making it easy to explore without feeling like you’re in a tourist zone.

The interiors are full of character, with exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and touches of Art Nouveau design that give the space real personality. Rooms are cozy and thoughtfully furnished, with private bathrooms and either city views over Corso Vittorio Emanuele or quieter courtyard outlooks. 

Breakfast is a highlight here too, and a great way to start the day before wandering toward the Botanical Gardens or Castello. Rooms typically start around €110 and go up to about €160 per night.

See what’s open and plan your nights in Stampace here!

If you like Sa Domu Cheta’s central location but want something a bit more modern, Le Suite Sul Corso offers a cleaner, more contemporary feel right along the main street. It’s a good fit for travelers who want comfort and convenience with less emphasis on historic details.

Urban Karalis by Accomodo leans toward a more apartment-style stay, making it ideal for longer visits or travelers who like a bit of extra space. It keeps the same central Stampace location as Sa Domu Cheta but swaps boutique charm for independence and flexibility.

Efamoresca – $

Efamoresca is a fantastic budget-friendly find in Stampace, especially if location is high on your wish list. Sitting just steps from Piazza Yenne, this adults-only guesthouse puts you right in the middle of Cagliari’s historic center while still managing to feel calm and tucked away. 

Staying here makes it easy to pop out for a coffee, wander the historic streets, and be back “home” in minutes. Rooms feel fresh and comfortable thanks to recent renovations, with air conditioning and good soundproofing. Some rooms also include balconies or overlook the inner courtyard, keeping things quiet once the day winds down.

The overall vibe is simple, clean, and relaxed, with comfy beds that guests consistently rave about. Rooms here often come in under €60 per night. 

See what’s available and grab this great-value stay in Stampace!

For another one of our top choices here, Beni Benius is a straightforward, wallet-friendly option right in the historic center, perfect for travelers who value location over extras. It’s simple, practical, and well-suited to short stays or busy sightseeing days.

With a bit more personality and style, Arcobaleno Suites adds a lighthearted, elegant twist to budget accommodation. It’s a nice pick if you want something affordable that still feels thoughtfully designed and comfortable.

Poetto

BEST FOR RELAXATION AND BEACH TIME

Pros

• Direct access to a long, sandy city beach
• Laid-back atmosphere that feels worlds away from the historic center

Cons

• Not walkable to Cagliari’s main sights
• Requires buses or taxis to reach the city center

Poetto is where Cagliari slows down and heads seaside. Stretching for several kilometers along the coast, this long city beach is the go-to spot for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxed afternoons by the water. 

The backdrop of the Sella del Diavolo headland and the wide, open shoreline give the area a distinctly Mediterranean, vacation-style feel. During the warmer months, Poetto really comes alive, with beach clubs, casual restaurants, and bars lining the shore and locals spending entire days by the sea.

This area is best suited to travelers who want beach time to be the main focus of their stay or who are visiting Cagliari for longer than just a quick city break. While Poetto is well connected to the historic center by public buses, it’s not walkable, so getting around requires a bit more planning. That trade-off comes with quieter evenings, ocean views, and a much more relaxed pace than the city’s historic districts.

Poetto isn’t ideal if your itinerary is packed with museums, landmarks, and constant sightseeing. Instead, it’s perfect for travelers who want to mix a few city visits with plenty of downtime, morning swims, sunset strolls, and leisurely meals by the beach. If relaxation is high on your priority list, Poetto delivers.

New Bussola – $$$

New Bussola is a great pick if your idea of a perfect stay involves waking up near the sea and spending most of the day in flip-flops. Sitting right along Poetto Beach, this hotel puts sand, water, and beach clubs just steps from your door, making it easy to fully lean into vacation mode. It’s the kind of place where days naturally revolve around swimming, long lunches, and sunset walks along the shore.

Many rooms are set up to make the most of the coastal setting, with outdoor space and big windows that bring in light and sea breezes. The hotel encourages an unhurried rhythm, where afternoons stretch long, and there’s no pressure to be anywhere on time.

There’s also on-site dining, so grabbing an easy meal after a beach day doesn’t require much effort. Prices generally fall from €360 to €560 per night, depending on the season and room type. There is a nightly minimum required to book a stay here, so it’s also ideal if you’re staying for 2-4 days (depending on the time of year).

Lock in your beachside stay at New Bussola here!

If you’re too late for New Bussola, Hotel Nautilus Excelsior – Adults Only leans fully into relaxation, with a calm, refined atmosphere that feels tailor-made for couples. It’s a great choice if you want a quieter beach stay with stylish touches and zero family buzz.

For something with a more classic, seaside feel, Hotel La Villa Del Mare brings old-school charm right to the shoreline. It’s perfect for travelers who like character, direct beach access, and a slightly more traditional take on a Poetto stay.

Le Palmette Suites – $$

Le Palmette Suites is a great middle-ground option in Poetto if you want something modern, comfortable, and close to the beach without going full resort mode. Located just a short walk from the sand, it’s easy to slip into a beach-first routine here, with morning swims, lazy afternoons, and casual seaside dinners setting the pace.

The suites are sleek and thoughtfully designed, with personalized décor, air conditioning, and everything you need for a relaxed stay. Breakfast is served at a nearby seaside bar, which feels very on-brand for Poetto and is a nice excuse to start the day with a coffee by the water. 

When you’re ready to explore beyond the beach, the city center is about a 15-minute drive away, making day trips easy without sacrificing downtime. Expect nightly rates to land roughly between €130 and €280, depending on room type and season.

See what’s available and settle into seaside life at Poetto here!

Villino Vanzetti 1930 brings a more intimate, character-filled feel to a Poetto stay. It’s a great choice if you like the idea of being near the beach but prefer a setting with personality and a slightly old-school seaside atmosphere.

As the name suggests, Appartamenti sulla SPIAGGIA al POETTO are all about location and independence. They’re ideal for longer stays or travelers who want to be steps from the sand and fully set their own beach-day schedule, with the freedom to come and go as they please.

​​Villabeachcity Guesthouse – $

If being close to the beach is non-negotiable, ​​Villabeachcity Guesthouse is a great budget pick. Sitting just a minute’s walk from Poetto’s sandy shoreline, this small guesthouse makes it incredibly easy to slip in morning swims, midday beach breaks, and sunset strolls without any planning at all. It’s relaxed, friendly, and very much about easy seaside living.

Rooms are colorful and thoughtfully decorated, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and handy extras such as a mini-fridge and kettle. Outside, there’s a shared garden space that adds to the laid-back, villa-style feel and gives you a place to unwind after a day in the sun. 

Getting into the city is straightforward too, with frequent buses reaching Via Roma in around 10 minutes. Rooms typically range from €85 to €110 per night.

Lock in your affordable spot steps from the sand here!

A simple, no-frills stay right by the beach, Hotel Poetto focuses on location and convenience over extras. If you want to be close to the sand, beach bars, and bus connections without paying resort-style prices, it’s a solid choice.

For something smaller and more personal, guesthouse marinapoetto offers a quieter alternative along the Poetto shoreline. It suits travelers who want a relaxed, low-key base near the beach while still having easy access to restaurants and seaside walks.

Top Activities to do in Cagliari, Italy

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and hotel, you can plan the rest of your trip! We loved Cagliari because it blends seaside charm, history, and a relaxed Italian island vibe that’s hard to beat. If you’re not sure exactly how to use your time here, start off with our personal top activities we did.

• Explore Cagliari on an e-bike – Tackle Cagliari’s hills with ease on this electric bike tour! This made it easy to see the top city sights in one day, and saved our legs. We learned a lot from our local guide, and it was just pure fun!

• Relax on a sailing and snorkeling tour – If you’re itching to get out on the shimmering blue water, you can’t miss this sailing trip! It was incredible to see limestone caves, grottos, and Sardinia’s dramatic coast. Snorkeling and swimming made it even more special!

• Take a cooking class – Learn how to cook Cagliari’s famous dumplings, Culurgiones, in this cooking class. This was a treat intro to Sardinia’s culture, and a tasty experience overall. We had a great teacher, as these little dumplings are harder to make than they look!

• Discover Cagliari’s underground history – Did you know there’s a whole underground tunnel network in Cagliari? You can explore it for yourself on this guided tour, which takes a deep dive into the history, crypts, caves, and tunnels. It’s a fascinating part of the city!

• Visit the Su Nuraxi archeological complex – You can explore a 3,500+ year old archeological complex on this expert-led tour, which is such a unique experience in Cagliari! It’s not too far from the city, making for an excellent day trip, and going with a guide ensures you learn as much as possible.

Related Read: Looking for even more fun activities? Check out our best things to do in Cagliari blog for our top recommendations.

Renting a Car in Italy

Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

• Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
• Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
• Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
• Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
• Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Cagliari is such a unique destination, but where you stay matters! Whether you want something beachy or to be surrounded by history, you can find it here. There are a lot of options in terms of budget, but be sure to secure your favorite hotel as soon as you can, as prices can rise during peak season or be sold out entirely.

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Italy blogs here. We absolutely love this country, and have spent a lot of time exploring it to create helpful guides for you! Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination and adventure – cheers!

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