Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia, a picturesque Italian island that is slightly removed from the well-beaten tourist track. Its superb scenery and coastline are, however, rapidly elevating its status as a popular holiday destination. The town itself is an historical and cultural haven with impressive architecture and quaint restaurants serving supremely fresh seafood and other local delicacies.

The majority of Cagliari’s attractions can be found in the medieval section known as Castello, an atmospheric district characterised by narrow Spanish streets dating from the era of Catalonian rule and enclosed by ancient walls. The Castello area is home to some stunning medieval architecture. This includes the former City Hall (the Viceregal Palace) and adjacent cathedral (the Belgrano Palace), which houses the island’s university. The most captivating attraction, however, is the Citadel of Museums, a complex of four fascinating museums devoted to the history and archaeology of the area.

There are plenty of leisure activities to choose from in Cagliari. Excellent shopping is to be had in the small markets and workshops in the Castello, with antiques, ceramics and leather goods to tempt shoppers. The town’s many small bars and restaurants offer plentiful opportunities for evening entertainment, and live music is a regular feature of the town’s social agenda. A variety of bands and independent musicians perform in Cagliari’s private clubs.

It is well worth hiring a car in order to explore the rest of Sardinia, which is still fairly unmarred by tourism. It boasts some incredibly beautiful scenery and well preserved Roman ruins. Highlights of the island include the stunning sands of Chia, where sprawling beaches are backed by undulating dunes, and the ancient Roman settlement of Nora, complete with an amphitheatre, forum and baths.

Elmas Airport is located just a short drive from the city centre and offers daily flights to the Italian mainland and destinations across Europe. Ferries provide transport to Civitavecchia, Naples, Palermo and Trapani.