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Getting Around Cagliari

Getting Around Cagliari

Cagliari Sardinia, Italy Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Cagliari's public transportation mainly operates through CTM (Consorzio Trasporti e Mobilità). The system relies heavily on an extensive bus network. A light rail/tram system, Metrocagliari, connects areas outside the immediate city center to university and hospital campuses. The tram receives less tourist use for central city movement.

Route Maps & Hubs: The bus system covers the entire city and extends to areas like Poetto Beach, Quartu Sant'Elena, and Elmas (the airport). Important hubs include Piazza Matteotti, Via Roma, and Piazza Yenne. Metrocagliari runs from Piazza Repubblica to Monserrato and Settimo San Pietro. Maps are available at CTM points of sale, tourist offices, and digitally.

Ticketing & Accessibility

  • Tickets: Single (€1.30), 90-minute (€1.30), daily (€3.30), or weekly passes.
  • Purchase locations: Tabaccherie, newsstands, CTM points, BusFinder app.
  • Validation: Must validate immediately upon boarding (yellow machines).
  • Accessibility: Newer buses have ramps; older ones may not be fully accessible.

Bus Operating Hours

Generally from early morning (5:00 AM) until late evening (11:00 PM). Some night lines on weekends.

Bus Frequency

10-15 minutes on major routes, 30-60 minutes on less busy lines.

BusFinder App

Download the CTM BusFinder app for real-time bus locations and schedules.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Before You Board
  • Use the CTM BusFinder app for real-time information.
  • Always buy your tickets in advance from a Tabaccheria or newsstand.
  • Avoid buying tickets from the driver (more expensive).
On Board
  • Remember to validate your ticket immediately upon boarding.
  • Failure to validate tickets results in fines from inspectors.
  • Use Google Maps or Apple Maps for route planning.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White with "TAXI" sign, visible meter.

Hailing

Find at designated stands or call by phone.

Free Now App

Most common app for booking licensed taxis.

Uber

Uber Black available (more expensive); peer-to-peer not available.

Rental Options

For travelers who prefer independent exploration beyond the city center, various rental options are available, from cars to bicycles. These options create flexibility for discovering Sardinia's diverse landscapes.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: Valid national license, IDP (non-EU/EEA), major credit card.
  • Book in advance, especially for high season.
  • Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise.
  • A DiscoverCars.com comparison tool helps find the best rates.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rental

  • Several local shops offer rentals.
  • Popular and agile for city traffic and coastal roads.
  • License must permit specific vehicle type.
  • Safety: Drive defensively.

Walking & Cycling

  • Pedestrian-friendly: Castello, Marina, Stampace, Villanova districts.
  • Poetto Beach promenade for long, flat walks.
  • Guided or self-guided walking tours.
  • Expanding network of dedicated bike lanes (waterfront, Poetto).
  • Always wear a Helmet when cycling on roads.
  • Avoid walking/cycling on major arterial roads or highways.

Specialized Transportation

Hop-on-Hop-off

City Sightseeing Cagliari offers overview tours.

Boat Tours

From Marina Piccola or main port for coastal exploration.

Accessibility Notes

Historic center's cobbled and hilly streets present challenges for mobility impairments.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Regulations

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h (urban), 90-110 km/h (main roads), 130 km/h (highways).
  • Mobile phone use is strictly hands-free.

Road Etiquette

  • Sardinian drivers may be assertive; drive defensively.
  • Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive.
  • Be aware of ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in historic centers.
  • Unauthorized entry into ZTL zones results in fines.

Parking Line Meanings

Blue Lines

Indicate paid parking zones.

Pay at Parcometro machines or via MyCicero app.

White Lines

Indicate free parking.

Rare in central areas.

Yellow Lines

Reserved for residents or specific vehicle types.

For example, disabled parking.

Airport Transfer Insights

Train from Airport
  • "Elmas Aeroporto" station opposite arrivals.
  • Trains every 20-30 minutes to Cagliari Centrale.
  • Journey: 7-10 minutes; Fare: ~€1.30.
Taxi from Airport
  • Available outside the arrivals area.
  • Cost to city center: €15-25 (traffic dependent).
  • Varies by time of day and specific destination.

Important Parking Reminder

  • Always check ZTL signage before entering historic areas.
  • Fines for unauthorized ZTL entry are significant.
  • Parking in the city center is limited and often paid.
  • Use public parking garages on city outskirts for easier access.
  • Be mindful of time limits in blue-lined parking spots.
  • Read all parking signs carefully to avoid violations.
  • Consider public transport if you plan to stay central.
  • Parking meters may not accept all forms of payment; have coins.

Local Transport Advice

Cagliari's charming districts are best explored on foot.

For city-wide travel, the bus system is efficient and cost-effective.