Not to miss

Marina

Browse-worthy indeed, the Cagliari waterfront is known as Marina and it's the most atmospheric part of town, with little lanes full of artisans' shops, delicatessens and loads of good eateries. This neighbourhood is also blessed with plenty of churches: the Chiesa di Sant'Eulalia on Piazza Sant'Eulalia is the most interesting thanks to its attached museum.

Poetto Beach

This 6km ( 307mi) strand is the longest stretch of beach in Italy and it's lined with funfairs, restaurants, bars and discos, plus lidos where you can hire umbrellas and loungers. In summer there's a lively holiday atmosphere; the beach's southern end is undoubtedly the most popular with its picturesque Marina Piccola, Yacht Club and outdoor cinema (July and August).

Castello

The precipitous hilltop walls of medieval Cagliari enclose the castello (castle), once a virtually impregnable fortress town. Inside the dramatic ramparts are a cathedral, towers, museums and tangled alleys to explore; afterwards, chill out at fashionable Caffé Libarium Nostrum (33 Via Santa Croce) and enjoy great views from tables on the old city walls.