About Cagliari Train Station
Cagliari Train Station, sometimes referred to as Cagliari Centrale, is the main railway station not just of Cagliari but also of the island of Sardinia. Positioned on Giacomo Matteotti Square, the station is close to both the city's heart and the port where most visitors arrive on the island by ferry. As such, it makes the perfect gateway to explore the city and the island.
Sardinia has been a historically underdeveloped region, and the railway came late here. The station was opened in 1879 to connect Cagliari to Oristano, Ozieri, and Olbia. Shortly after, it was linked to the nearby port for freight traffic. Expanded in the 1980s, the station currently has four platforms serving eight tracks that send trains all over the island.
Cagliari isn't Rome. Part of the charm of Sardinia is its relative lack of crowds compared to other Italian destinations. This isn't the biggest or busiest railway station you're likely to see, but it does make a great place to explore the rest of the island. And its central location in the town of Cagliari means it's convenient for many of the city's top attractions too.
Things to do near Cagliari Train Station
Sardinia is a relatively small island that punches well above its weight when it comes to things to do. With its gorgeous beaches, warm sea, and quaint fishing villages, it's tempting to rush out of the capital city and head to the more remote areas of the island. That would be a shame, because Cagliari has plenty to offer travelers too.
- Shop like a local at the Mercato do San Benedetto. Cagliari's busiest market is a perfect place to sample some of the local produce. Pick up some of the fresh seafood the island is known for or the local cheese and wine and experience the beating heart of Cagliari.
- Learn more about the history of Sardinia at the Cittadella dei Musei. This is Cagliari's Museum quarter, and it houses the Cagliari National Gallery, the Archaeological Museum, and the slightly bizarre Anatomical Waxes collection.
- Delve into the distant past at Cagliari's Roman amphitheater. Dating back to the 2nd century, the Romans carved this impressive amphitheater into the rock above the city. Once a venue for gladiatorial combat, the arena now hosts concerts and plays, so if you're lucky, you may get to see a performance in this unforgettable location.
- Spend some time soaking up the unique atmosphere of Cagliari in the Il Castello district. The narrow streets and colorful buildings here are full of life, and it’s a great place to find family-run restaurants and cool bars. It’s also home to some of Cagliari’s most important historical attractions, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the royal palace.
- Get away from it all at Calamosca beach. Sardinia is famed for its beaches, and you don't need to go far from the city to find a good one. Just past the port, you'll find Calamosca, a beautiful beach set along a stretch of rugged coastline that feels a million miles from the city.
Transit options near Cagliari Train Station
- Cagliari Airport is only a short distance from the center of the city. Although there is no train service to the airport, a bus will take you from the airport to the train station in about 10 minutes.
- Cagliari has three trolley bus routes, two of which, 30 and 31, terminate at Piazza Matteotti just outside the train station.
- Cagliari train station is right next to the port. Cruise ships and ferries dock here to bring passengers from mainland Italy, France, and other destinations.
Luggage storage near Cagliari Train Station
A large part of Cagliari's charm is its vibrant street culture. The best way to experience this enchanting city is on foot, wandering through the narrow alleys and sun-soaked piazzas and stopping wherever piques your interest. Of course, this will be a lot more pleasant if you're not dragging heavy bags with you. So make sure to drop off your possessions at a Bounce luggage storage near Cagliari train station. That way, you can enjoy a much more pleasant trip.
Activities and attractions near Cagliari Train Station
- Neptune's Grotto: This coastal cave is full of stalagmites and stalactites and even contains an underground lake. If the 650 steps down to the cave from the cliffs above don't appeal, you can also hire a boat to take you to this stunning show cave by water. Either way, it's one of Sardinia's most stunning attractions. The cave is no place to carry heavy bags around, so make sure you leave your possessions at a luggage storage near Cagliari train station before you visit.
- Su Nuraxi: One of Sardinia's most important archaeological sites, this mysterious stone construction dates back to the 13th century BC. We still don't fully understand the purpose of these remnants of a vanished civilization, but they are utterly unique and have been protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Beach day: As a Mediterranean island, Sardinia is blessed with almost endless beaches. The water is warm and startlingly clear, and you could be forgiven for thinking you're in the Caribbean instead of Europe. It's hard to pick a single beach to go to in Sardinia, but Cala Goloritze is definitely a contender. Small and secluded, this stunning beach lies at the base of towering cliffs and is the perfect place to swim, snorkel, or just relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Nothing spoils a beach day quicker than bringing too much stuff, so make sure to leave anything you don't need at a luggage storage shop in Cagliari before you head to the beach.
