Resilient Lady’s Revised Launch Schedule. Read More
Virgin Voyages' guide to Cagliari
A medieval hilltop town, friendly shepherds, pristine beaches, and impressive shipwrecks — this Sardinian city has it all.
Cagliari
Cagliari: The south of Sardinia
In the middle of the Mediterranean lies Sardinia — an exotic Italian island that’s closer to Tunisia than it is to Italy. Its expansive beaches, towering mountains, and salt flats dotted with pink flamingos transport you to a far-away land reminiscent of the Caribbean. Sardinia’s northern Emerald Coast is known for its celebrity sightings and summer sailing yachts. But the southern capital city of Cagliari offers a true taste of Sardinia with its faded frescos and fresh slices of pizza.

Wind down the steep hills of Cagliari and you’ll find yourself in the city’s historic Castello district. The sweeping views of the city and the Gulf of Cagliari are well worth the hike (or the quick elevator ride to the top). And in nearby Poetto Beach, the coast is lined with electric bars and restaurants serving incredible fresh Italian dishes. So whether you soak in the city’s rich history or bask in the seaside sun, Cagliari will give you an unrivaled glimpse of the Sardinians’ stress-free way of life.
Say bongiorno to Sardinia
Get to know the sights and views from great heights
All Aboard the Party (Sail)boat
Embark on a sun-kissed sailing day and see Cagliari disappear into the horizon as a live DJ gets the party started. Sailing out on the crystal-clear waters of Golfo degli Angeli (Gulf of the Angels), you’ll see the old town standing proud and luminous on the Sardinian hills and admire the Devil’s Saddle, the striking rock formation that separates the city from the swathe of white sands at Poetto Beach, as the beat drops.

The Art of Sardinian Pizza & Pasta
Explore the historic streets of La Marina quarter on a short walking tour, shop, and embark on an authentic culinary journey in a hands-on pizza-making workshop. After putting on your apron, you’ll learn the artisanal tradition of preparing this beloved Italian dish. Then, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Transform into a real pizzaiolo maker as you create your own lunch and see if you have what it takes to become a true master (or if you should hang up your apron instead).

Emissions-free Adventure by E-bike
Explore Cagliari on a fabulous and emissions-free Shore Thing departing directly from the pier. With its electric motor and battery, your e-bike will let you go farther for longer. As you follow your guide along different bicycle paths through the ancient city and its outskirts, you’ll cruise down the “Su Siccu” seaside promenade and pedal through Molentargius Natural Park (keep your eyes peeled for the pink flamingos!) Then, you’ll stop at the lively Poetto Beach to cool off with a swim.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
The longest dolce vita
Sardinia has one of the highest rates of people living over 100 years.
After your time in Sardinia, you might notice a much-needed switch in your daily pace. Sardinians saunter gracefully through life until they reach well above 80 years of age and into their 100s. Their philosophy to life feels much like the energy in Cagliari — steady strolls up to Castello, slow sunsets from the Bastione Saint Remy, and leisurely lunches where you linger on a perfectly crafted glass of wine. Sardinia gives you permission to slow down and experience life on the Italian island to its absolute fullest.
***Please be aware that all Sailors may be required to show proof of vaccination (a photocopy is acceptable) in Cagliari, and a photo ID may also be required to return to the ship. Sailors should also bring masks with them as they may be required in some establishments.
Set Sail the Virgin Way
Set sail the Virgin way and find a new approach to cruise vacations. Select a cruise itinerary and let's sail.
French Daze & Ibiza Nights
- Barcelona
- Marseille
- Cannes
- Olbia
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
French Daze & Ibiza Nights
- Barcelona
- Marseille
- Cannes
- Palma de Mallorca
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
Spanish Obsession
- Barcelona
- Palma de Mallorca
- Gibraltar
- Málaga
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
Spanish Obsession
- Barcelona
- Palma de Mallorca
- Málaga
- Gibraltar
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
Mediterranean MerMaiden
- Barcelona
- Toulon
- Marina di Carrara
- Ajaccio
- Cagliari
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
Adriatic Sea & Greek Gems
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Dubrovnik
- Kotor
- Corfu
- Argostoli
- Piraeus (Athens)
Greek Island Glow
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Santorini
- Rhodes
- Bodrum
- Mykonos
- Piraeus (Athens)
Athens MerMaiden
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Santorini
- Rhodes
- Bodrum
- Mykonos
- Piraeus (Athens)
Charming Greece, Italy, Spain & Portugal
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Catania
- Palma de Mallorca
- Málaga
- Lisbon
Charming Portugal, Spain, Italy & Greece
- Lisbon
- Málaga
- Palma de Mallorca
- Catania
- Mykonos
- Piraeus (Athens)
Coast the Canary Islands, Spain, & Portugal
- Portsmouth
- La Coruña
- Funchal
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Gran Canaria
- Lisbon
- Portsmouth
Coast the Canary Islands, Spain, & Portugal
- Portsmouth
- La Coruña
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Gran Canaria
- Lisbon
- Portsmouth
Late Nights in Portugal and Spain
- Portsmouth
- La Coruña
- Lisbon
- Cádiz
- Gibraltar
- Málaga
- Palma de Mallorca
- Barcelona
The Irresistible Med
- Barcelona
- Toulon
- Marina di Carrara
- Ajaccio
- Olbia
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
The Irresistible Med
- Barcelona
- Toulon
- Marina di Carrara
- Ajaccio
- Cagliari
- Ibiza
- Barcelona
Adriatic Sea & Greek Gems
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Split
- Dubrovnik
- Kotor
- Corfu
- Piraeus (Athens)
-
French Daze & Ibiza Nights
-
French Daze & Ibiza Nights
-
Spanish Obsession
-
Spanish Obsession
-
Mediterranean MerMaiden
-
Adriatic Sea & Greek Gems
-
Greek Island Glow
-
Athens MerMaiden
-
Charming Greece, Italy, Spain & Portugal
-
Charming Portugal, Spain, Italy & Greece
-
Coast the Canary Islands, Spain, & Portugal
-
Coast the Canary Islands, Spain, & Portugal
-
Late Nights in Portugal and Spain
-
The Irresistible Med
-
The Irresistible Med
-
Adriatic Sea & Greek Gems
Behind the velvet rope and into your inbox.
Oops, something went wrong. Please try again or visit our Contact Us page. You can also:
- Check you've typed your email address correctly.
- Make sure you've checked the signup box.
Success!
You've successfully signed up for our email list... You're in for some treats.