Cagliari Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

CTM BusFinder
Schedules, real-time tracking, digital tickets for public buses.
Google Maps / Apple Maps
Navigation for walking, driving, and public transport options.
Babbel / Google Translate
Instant language translation; download Italian for offline use.
Free Now
Booking licensed taxis with estimated fares and tracking.
TripAdvisor / Yelp / TheFork
Restaurant reviews, reservations, and attraction discovery.

Useful Websites for Planning

Cagliari Tourist Information
Official city tourism website for guides and events.
Sardegna Turismo
Official regional tourism website for island-wide information.
Trenitalia
Train schedules and bookings within Sardinia.
ARST
Bus schedules and routes connecting Cagliari to other parts of Sardinia.
Cagliari-Elmas Airport (CAG)
Official airport website for flight info and facilities.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

A reputable guidebook focused on Sardinia, regularly updated, offers comprehensive knowledge.

Lonely Planet Sardinia

City Maps

A detailed city map of Cagliari is invaluable for orientation, especially in the historic center.

Books on the Destination

Explore history and culture through literature set in Sardinia, enriching your visit.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

Unified European Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Ambulance, Fire).
Medical Emergency / Ambulance: Dial 112.
Fire Department (Vigili del Fuoco): Dial 112.
Police (Carabinieri/Polizia di Stato): Dial 112.

Hospital & Clinic Locations

Policlinico Universitario Monserrato: Major university hospital.
Ospedale Civile Santissima Trinità: Another important hospital within Cagliari.
For minor ailments, seek a "Farmacia" (pharmacy), identified by a green cross.
Lost document procedures: Report to police for a report, then contact embassy for emergency document.

Important Health & Safety Advisories

Emergency & Safety Contacts

Consular Assistance

US Embassy Rome: Via Vittorio Veneto, 121, 00187 Roma RM.
UK Embassy Rome: Via XX Settembre, 80/A, 00187 Roma RM.
For other nationalities, consult your specific embassy or consulate in Italy.
Phone numbers are available on official websites.

Local Safety Tips

Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Trust your instincts regarding personal safety.
Avoid unlit or deserted areas after dark.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Natural Disaster Protocols

In case of emergency, follow local authority instructions.
Listen to civil protection guidance and accommodation staff.
Monitor local news and official alerts for updates.
Stay informed about any severe weather warnings.

Health & Wellness

Medical Preparedness

Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations.
Carry necessary prescription medications in original packaging.
Have your travel insurance details accessible.

Local Health Resources

Farmacie (pharmacies) provide advice for minor ailments.
For serious medical needs, visit a hospital emergency room.
Familiarize yourself with major hospital locations in Cagliari.

Important Advisory

Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, and keep originals in a secure location.

Connectivity & Communication

Mobile Phone & Internet

Check roaming options with your home provider.
Consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival for cheaper data.
Public Wi-Fi is available in many cafes and squares.

Staying Connected

Utilize messaging apps like WhatsApp for free communication.
Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid card issues.
Set up mail holds and arrange pet care before departure.

Financial & Practical Tips

Money Matters

Convert some currency to Euros before arrival.
ATMs generally offer favorable exchange rates.
Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocking.
Keep small denominations for minor purchases.
Be mindful of foreign transaction fees.

Practicalities

Make photocopies of essential documents.
Store digital copies of documents separately.
Pack climate-appropriate clothing.
Download useful apps (maps, translation).
Unplug unnecessary electronics at home.

Contacts and Locations

Major Hospital

Policlinico Universitario Monserrato: Via Goffredo Mameli, 161.

City Hospital

Ospedale Civile Santissima Trinità: Via Is Mirrionis, 92.

Cagliari-Elmas Airport

Fast train transfer to city center available.

Safety Reminder

Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. In any emergency, dial 112.

Planning Ahead for Your Trip

Pre-Trip Planning Milestones

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa
Confirm passport validity (6+ months beyond return). Check visa requirements; apply early.
Flights & Accommodation
Book international flights, especially for peak season. Secure Cagliari accommodation early.
Car Rental & IDP
Book car rental and acquire an International Driving Permit if needed.

-2 Months Before

Itinerary & Tours
Plan detailed itinerary and book specific tours/experiences (e.g., cooking classes, boat trips).
Financial & Communication
Inform bank/credit card companies of travel. Check mobile roaming or plan for local SIM.
Health Consult
Consult your doctor about vaccinations or health concerns for Italy.

Pre-Trip Research & Home Preparations

Pre-Trip Research

Read up on Sardinian history and culture to heighten your appreciation. Familiarize yourself with basic Italian phrases. Look at maps of Cagliari's districts for layout awareness.

Required Advance Bookings

Flights, main accommodation, car rental (if needed), popular tours, and ferry tickets often require advance booking, especially during high season.

Home Preparation

Secure your home (lock windows, doors). Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your absence. Manage mail and deliveries. Care for pets. Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear immigration and collect luggage at Cagliari-Elmas Airport (CAG).
Proceed to the airport train station for transfer to city center.
Activate local SIM card or connect to airport Wi-Fi.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money for immediate expenses.

Orientation Strategies

Use Google Maps to navigate to your accommodation.
Locate the nearest tabaccheria or CTM point for bus tickets.
Find your nearest ATM for cash withdrawals.
Visit a local tourist information office for physical maps.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Plan time for last-minute souvenir shopping (Via Manno, Mercato di San Benedetto).
For large/fragile items, inquire about international shipping services.
Be aware of customs regulations and potential duties in your home country.
Choose unique local gifts to remember your trip.

VAT Refund Procedures

Non-EU residents claim VAT refund on purchases over €154.94 from one store.
Look for "Tax Free" or "VAT Refund" signs in shops.
Keep receipts and fill out necessary forms at the store.
Process refund at the airport before departure, often after security.

Final Checklist

Confirm return flight/ferry details. Pack carry-on essentials. Empty bins at accommodation. Leave keys as instructed. Keep passport and tickets accessible.

Cagliari Travel Resources