Itineraries for Your Trip to Cagliari
3 Days in Cagliari for Foodies
Set off the western coast of the Italian mainland, Sardinia has a history, culture, and language all of its own. It also has a distinct cuisine based on fresh fish and seafood plucked from the coast’s turquoise waters and specialties produced on inland farms and sheep pastures.
Cagliari is located on the coast and ringed by hills that host family-run wineries and farming estates, making it an ideal location to sample traditional Sardinian cuisine. Begin by exploring the city’s culinary scene before heading out to the countryside to sample Sardinian wine, olive oil, pecorino sheep cheese, and other delights. Here’s how to spend three delicious days in and around this southern port town.
Sardinians dine late in summer to avoid the heat, so keep that in mind when planning your days.
If you only have time for one thing, dig into a plate of culurgiones, a Sardinian dumpling stuffed with potato.
Begin your time in Cagliari by learning how the locals shop, cook, and dine. A stroll through the local morning market followed by a homemade lunch with a Sardinian host offers an exclusive glimpse into the city’s culinary culture plus a chance to connect with a Sardinian family.
In the afternoon, head to a family-run winery just outside of the city by car or with a tour to learn about the area’s winemaking tradition. End by tasting a number of red and white wines produced on the estate, paired with artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and other island specialties.
Spend today exploring Sardinia’s inland hills and meet some local farmers, shepherds, and home cooks to learn about the island’s mountain culture and cuisine. See how Sardinian pecorino sheep cheese is made, feast on authentic rustic dishes over a family-style lunch with your hosts, and take in views over the rugged countryside in the heart of the island.
Alternatively, spend the morning nibbling your way through Cagliari’s old town with a combined sightseeing and food tour to sample a few of the city’s top dishes and specialties. Then while away the afternoon on one of the area’s spectacular beaches, from Poetto in town to the coastline of Villasimius to the east and Chia to the west.
Much of Sardinian cuisine is based on fresh fish and seafood from the Mediterranean Sea. Set sail this morning to cast your net with a local skipper and fisherman and feast on the sea’s bounty with a barbecue lunch on board. Break up the adventure with dips in pristine coves along the coast. Alternatively, skip the fishing and enjoy your seafood on land with lunch in town.
No food-focused visit to Cagliari is complete without learning how to make the area’s most famous dish—culurgiones (potato-stuffed dumplings)—by hand. Get tips from a local home cook, then sample your handiwork over a home-style dinner.
