Preparing you for your trip
This document is to aid you in planning your trip to Cagliari. On our first full day together in Cagliari you will participate in a comprehensive orientation to living in Cagliari with our Community Manager. This is simply to provide you with some basic information in advance of departure.
Event schedule: find your program dates
Your program schedule will be updated 60 days before departure. Community managers will be using WhatsApp to share updates and reminders of activities. Schedule is subject to change.
Program schedule
Gallery view
Pre-departure
Packing
- Packing Considerations
- Consider the Season: Sardegna - Cagliari has a Mediterranean climate, but humidity and wind significantly influence how temperatures feel. The island’s humidity can intensify the summer heat and make winter days feel even cooler. Winds are usually a constant presence, refreshing in the summer but adding a noticeable chill in the colder months, especially when blowing from the north. From May to October, expect warm temperatures (25-35°C / 77-95°F), lots of sunshine, and little rain—perfect for beachwear, light clothing, and sun protection. However, I’d recommend bringing a light jacket or a sweatshirt/sweater, just in case, especially for cooler evenings or breezy days. Spring and autumn are pleasantly warm, but winter (December-February) can be quite chilly, especially at night, when temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F). A warm jacket is recommended, as well as layers to adjust to the changing conditions. In addition, don’t forget to pack mosquito repellent — it might come in handy!
- Walking Shoes: Cagliari is a walkable city, so comfortable shoes are essential. Opt for closed-toe shoes with good tread to navigate the cobblestone streets. If you plan to explore nature trails or go jogging, bring a pair of sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes. For the beach, flip-flops are a must, and if you enjoy dressing up in the evening, ladies often wear high heels for a more elegant look.
- Casual Clothing: In Italy, fashion is a way of life—even casual outfits are often put together with style and intention. In summer, Bermuda shorts paired with a polo or a button-down shirt are a great choice for men. Italians tend to favor neutral or muted colors, as they are versatile and easy to mix and match—allowing you to create more outfits while packing light.
- Luggage: Navigating Cagliari’s cobblestone streets or walking uphill with a large suitcase can be challenging. Try to pack as light as possible—you’ll have the convenience of washing your clothes while you're here or purchasing anything you might need on-site.
- Non-Obvious Things to Pack
- Respectful Attire: For visits to churches and religious sites, pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A light scarf can be handy for quick cover-ups.
- Travel Adapter: Italy uses a two-pronged plug different from the US. Pack a travel adapter to charge your electronics.
- Small Umbrella: Rain showers can happen any time. A small, foldable umbrella can be a lifesaver.
- Medications: Pack an adequate supply of any medications you take regularly. Bring a doctor's note for prescriptions in case you need refills.
Contact information
Important Phone Numbers
- Cagliari Community Manager: Andrea Ledda
- Whatsapp: +17605579787
Community Manager
- Hours of Availability
- Our Community Manager is there to support your experience. They will be physically present at community events, and that is a great time to talk to them.
- Outside of community events, the Community Manager is available via Whatsapp from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. As they have families and other obligations, we ask that you respect these hours for regular messages.
- Emergencies
- In the event of an emergency, you may call or text the Community Manager at any time via Whatsapp. Cagliari has a tourist medical center (https://sostouristmedicalcenter.com/) where several languages are spoken and where urgent cases can be treated, though it does not handle true emergencies. This center is equivalent to an urgent care facility in the U.S. They also offer home visits if necessary. For any life-threatening emergency, please dial 112 (the equivalent of 911), as all medical emergencies will be redirected to the city's hospitals.
In-country
Arrival Day
- You will receive your exact check-in instructions approximately two days before the start of your program. You are responsible for getting to your apartment from the airport.
- If you arrive at the Cagliari airport, you have a few options:
- Airport: https://www.sogaer.it/en Cagliari Airport is quite small and is divided into two levels: the first floor for departures and the ground floor for arrivals. If your luggage is traveling directly from the U.S., you’ll need to pick it up on the international luggage belt, located at the bottom of the stairs, before entering the main baggage claim room. In this case, your luggage will be scanned through the X-ray machine one more time. On the ground floor, you’ll find a Tourist Information desk open 7 days a week from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, as well as a bar, a mini-market, and an ATM. The taxi stand is right outside the main doors. Additionally, Cagliari Airport offers free WiFi with no time limits or extra charges. To connect, simply choose the 'WiFi Cagliari Airport' network and follow the instructions to register.
- Taxi: www.radiotaxi-cagliari.it The cost of a taxi from the airport to the city center, Piazza Yenne, or the Villanova neighborhood is €18-20 for up to 3 people with carry-on luggage of 10kg. Additional fees may apply, depending on luggage, number of passengers, time of day, and destination.
- NCC: https://taxincccagliarigiovanni.it/ NCC (Noleggio con Conducente) transfer is a private car service with a driver, accommodating up to 8 passengers. It operates by reservation only, with a designated pickup time and schedule. Drivers typically meet passengers holding a sign to ensure a smooth and efficient pickup experience. This service is the equivalent of a CTP. Guaranteed price is €28 (1-3 pax) €38 (4-6 pax).
- Metro/Train: Cagliari does not have a metro system; however, you can take a train from the airport to Cagliari's main station, Piazza Matteotti, which is very close to the city center (5 min walking). Trains depart every 20 minutes and are a more affordable option, costing just €1.30. The travel time is about 5 minutes. From the train station, you can either walk or take a taxi to your destination. If you arrive too early for check-in, there are luggage storage facilities near the train station. Please remember to validate your ticket at the machine on the platform before boarding.
Getting Around
- Public transportation
Cagliari is a walkable city, but if your feet get tired, don't worry!
Bus tickets are available at any tobacco shop, newspaper kiosk starting from €1.30 (90’ride) Available are also 120’ ride tickets, 12 ride-tickets, daily, weekly and monthly cards. Available also the bus App called “CTM BusFinder”, where you will be able to see itineraries, purchase tickets, and more.
For travel to towns outside of Cagliari, use ARST bus services: www.arst.sardegna.it. You can plan your journey using their ‣. The ARST bus station is conveniently located in Piazza Matteotti, beside the train station.
- Bicycle Rental:
Alternatively, you can rent a bike if you prefer not to rely on public transportation or if you want to get some exercise. Cagliari has developed several bike lanes, making it easy to ride your bike around, especially to the main beach, Poetto. Bicycle rentals may be limited during peak seasons. Again, you must be aware that Cagliari is not built on flat terrain but has several uphill areas, making bicycle riding more challenging. For bicycle rental you can visit: ‣
- Car rental
Consider if you really need a car: Cagliari is a walkable city with reliable public transportation, so renting a car may not be necessary. However, if you plan to explore Sardinia’s stunning beaches, natural wonders, and rich historical sites, having a car will be essential. In that case, you can rent a car at the airport, there are several agencies.
Insurance: Rental car insurance can be expensive, so check your existing car insurance and credit card coverage to see if they provide rental car protection in Italy.
International Driving Permit: Non-EU citizens visiting Italy as tourists and intending to drive should obtain an International Driving Permit before leaving their home country. Make sure to review the rental policy carefully before booking your car, as the rental company may refuse your rental—and you might lose your deposit—if you do not have your International Driving Permit.
Tolls: There are no toll roads in Sardinia, making it easy to explore the island by car without additional fees
Driving in Cagliari: There are narrow streets , one-way roads, and ZTL zones (limited traffic areas) where cars aren't allowed. Familiarize yourself with traffic regulations and ZTL zones before hitting the road.
Parking: Parking in Cagliari can be challenging. It's best to look for designated parking areas or garages and avoid leaving your car on the street for extended periods.
- Car Sharing
Car sharing is a valid alternative to a traditional car rental, limiting costs, and obligation. Non-EU citizens visiting Italy as tourists and intending to drive should obtain an International Driving Permit before leaving their home country. You can check the following website to browsing the 3 different options this company provides: ‣
- Private Service NCC
Booking a private service might be an interesting alternative, especially if you can share the ride with family or friends. The vehicle can accommodate up to 8 passengers. You can check the following website to browsing the options this company provides: ‣
Money
- Cash vs. Credit Card: While credit cards are widely accepted in Cagliari, it's always a good idea to carry some euros in cash for smaller purchases or emergencies.
- Using your Credit Card: When paying by credit card, the machine may ask if you would like to pay in local currency. The answer is Yes. The next question will be whether you Accept or Reject the conversion rate. Always mark “Reject”. This will prevent you from being charged any hidden fees. You will also be asked these questions at most ATMs.
- ATMs: ATMs in Italy are called Bancomats. They are widely available throughout the city, especially near tourist areas, some supermarkets, and banks.
- Look for Major Banks: Opt. for ATMs affiliated with major Italian banks like Intesa Sanpaolo, Banco di Sardegna, UniCredit, BNL, or Bancomat S.p.A. These might offer better exchange rates and lower fees compared to independent ATM providers.
- Avoid Euronet ATMs: While convenient, Euronet ATMs are known for higher fees and potentially less favorable exchange rates. Try to avoid them if possible.
- Check Fees Before Withdrawing: Always check the ATM screen for any withdrawal fees before you confirm the transaction and it is advised to Reject the conversion rate. Your home bank may also charge additional foreign transaction fees.
- Inform Your Bank: Let your bank know you'll be traveling abroad to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
- Carry Some Euros: It's always a good idea to carry some euros in cash before you arrive. This will help you cover any immediate expenses in case you have trouble finding an ATM or your card doesn't work.
- Credit Cards: While credit cards are widely accepted in Cagliari and Sardegna, be aware that AMEX credit card might not be accepted everywhere.
Communication
- Cell phone
- We recommend using Truely eSIM which allows you to easily and cheaply connect to the local cell network wherever you travel - and avoid roaming charges. Truely specifically offers an option that includes all of Europe and the UK, and only costs about $10. Click here to see how it works.
- Check with your carrier about international roaming plans and what is included and not included.
- SIM card: You can purchase a local SIM card in Italy, provided that you have an unlocked GSM phone.
- Messaging
- We encourage you to use Whatsapp for text messaging, this is what people in Europe use commonly. You can also use it for making calls on wifi.
- Wi-Fi
- Public wifi: Cagliari offers free Wi-Fi service. From your phone, select the network 'Free Wi-Fi Ca' and accept the terms of use. Additionally, many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi, which is great for basic tasks such as checking email and sending text messages.
- Apartment wifi: Your apartment will have high speed wifi that you can use for FaceTime and other messaging apps such as Whatsapp, iMessage, Zoom.
- Download Offline Maps and Apps: Having offline maps and apps like Google Translate downloaded can be helpful if you lose signal or wifi access.
- Local calls
- Many local businesses use WhatsApp Business for communication; however, some—especially those that operate via landline—may not have WhatsApp available. In such cases, you might need to call them directly. To avoid incurring international calling charges, we recommend using WhatsApp for local calls whenever possible.
Dining Out
- Tipping
- Not Mandatory: Unlike the US, there is no fixed tipping percentage in Italy. Tipping is not mandatory, but if you receive good service, you may leave a small amount at your discretion.
- Small Gestures: If you had a great experience, a small tip of a few euros (1-2 euros per person) or rounding up the bill is perfectly acceptable.
- Check for Service Charge: Some restaurants might include a service charge "servizio incluso" on the bill. Look for this before leaving an additional tip. Tips are not expected, but appreciated. You may leave a small amount at your discretion.
- Restaurant Reservations
- Fine Dining & Popular Spots: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner. Places can fill up quickly, particularly during peak tourist season (March-November).
- Casual Eateries: Reservations are generally less necessary at casual restaurants or pizzerias on weekdays. However, it can still be helpful to call ahead to secure a table, and it is highly recommended to make a reservation for weekends.
- Making Reservations: Many restaurants have websites where you can book a table online. However, I wouldn’t rely too much on digital methods—calling directly is often the best way to secure a reservation. Some businesses also accept reservations via WhatsApp, depending on their preferences.
- Dining hours: In Cagliari, lunch is typically served between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Restaurants then reopen for dinner around 8:00 PM, usually with at least two seatings—one at 8:00 PM and another around 9:30/10:00 PM, especially during the summer months. Plan your meals accordingly. Do not worry!! It is possible to find food while walking around, such as "pizzetta portafoglio," gelato, or an aperitif accompanied by small snacks, which are available in most bars.
- Following a list of some breakfast bar, restaurants and night bars that Andrea personally recommend:
Activities - Fitness & Health
- Language Study:
- One Word school, V.le Regina Margherita.
- L’Accademia, Via S. Lucifero, 65
- Sport - Yoga - Wellness - Leisure time :
- Liberty pool and gym, Via Satta, 88
- Athlon GYM, Via De Gioannis,5
- Centro Sportivo Giuseppe Belly (Ossigeno), V.le Cimitero, 29
- Ossigeno Padel, Via De Gioannis, 5
- Olè Kayak, Porticciolo Marina Piccola (Kayak rental)
- Vela Club Cagliari, Marina Del Sole - Molo Sant’Elmo 09123 Cagliari (Sailing school)
- Scuola Vela Windsurfing Club (laser sailing, offshore sailing, dinghy sailing….and more). Via Marina Piccola, 09126 Cagliari
- SkyDive Sardegna, S.S. 387 km 22,9 Aviosuperficie del Parteolla, Loc. Is Paulis, Serdiana
- Ananda Yoga Cagliari, at the corner of Viale Marconi, and Via Mercalli 2
- Silvia Breda - Yoga on the beach and ayurvedic massages
- Studio Yoga Prasanta (Iyengar Yoga Italia), Via G. Mameli 165, 09123 Cagliari
- A Tres Tiempos - Via delle Cicale 1, 09134 Cagliari (Cuban salsa & bachata)
- Beach bar “Capolinea” - V.le Poetto (Cuban Salsa & bachata)
- Golf Is Molas - Località Is Molas, 09010 Pula
- Golf La Mora Bianca - Strada provinciale 2, Assemini.
- The Circle, Via Sidney Sonnino 62, 09125 Cagliari CA (Massage & Beauty Treatments Facials & Relaxation, Nails & Lashes)
- T-Hotel spa, Via Dei Giudicati 66, 09131 Cagliari CA (Pool, Massage, Wellness & Relaxation).
- Codice 5, V.le Trieste 31,09123 Cagliari (Urban spa, Massage & Relaxation)
- INOUT MusicClub, V.le G Marconi 173 Cagliari
- Jazzino Ristorante Jazz Club, Via Carloforte 74 Cagliari
- BFlat Jazz Club, Via del Pozzetto 9 Cagliari
- City of Cagliari official website: Cagliari Turismo
- Some ideas for your spare time/evening: May events calendar
- Natural thermal bath Fordongianus: ‣; ‣
- Natural thermal bath Sardara : ‣
Something else you might enjoy.
Cagliari offers many gym facilities; however, enrolling in a gym requires a health certificate from an Italian doctor after an ECG exam. The waiting time for obtaining this certificate may vary, and some gyms have their own doctor who can issue it on-site. Your Community Manager can assist you with the process, but the doctor's fee will be at your expense. We recommend obtaining a medical certificate from your doctor before departure, confirming that you are in good health and fit to practice sports and physical activities, with no known medical conditions (such as heart issues or similar) that could prevent participation. The certificate can be in English. While some facilities may accept this certificate, we cannot assure you it will be valid everywhere. Additionally, most gyms require an enrollment fee, and prices may vary depending on the facility.
For sports enthusiasts, there are volleyball, tennis and padel courts available for booking. At the padel facility, you can rent rackets and balls, while tennis players must bring their own equipment.
The beach features a beautiful running path, and Parco Monte Claro offers calisthenics equipment for outdoor workouts. Additionally, Sardinia’s waters are usually calm and safe, making them ideal for long-distance swimming along the shore.
Medical
In Italy there are two kinds of drugstores:
Parafarmacia: no prescriptions. Farmacia: also prescriptions.
- Parafarmacia Piga, Largo Carlo Felice, 39
- Parafarmacia Sant Ignazio, Via Garibaldi, 7
- Farmacia Scanu, Largo Carlo Felice,46
- Farmacia Schlich Dr. Enrico, V.le Bonaria,24
More to come…
On our first full day together, we will have a full group orientation with our Community Managers, and we will cover much more information specific to living in Cagliari.
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