Cagliari's traffic guide for getting around by car
Overlooking a breathtaking gulf and embraced by hills and lagoons, Cagliari is a city full of unforgettable views, panoramic bastions, medieval towers, noble palaces, and Baroque churches. But it’s also a dynamic and sunny city, with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, where food is excellent and life is lived without haste.
An ideal destination for those seeking a break from metropolitan chaos, Cagliari offers city beaches like Poetto, hikes on the Sella del Diavolo, sunset aperitifs, and a lively cultural scene. Add to that a generally mild climate—with hot summers and short, dry winters—and a rich calendar of events, from jazz festivals to religious celebrations like Sant’Efisio, as well as food fairs and local markets, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable trip. In this article on Cagliari’s traffic and mobility, you’ll find some tips to better organize your movements in and around the city.
How to get to Cagliari: access to the city
Cagliari is easily reachable by plane, ferry, or, if already on the island, by car. Cagliari-Elmas Airport is just 7 km from the city center and offers connections to many Italian and European cities; from there, you can reach the center by a direct train taking about 10 minutes, or by taxi and rental car.
For those traveling by sea, ferries arrive at the Port of Cagliari, located right in the city center, with connections from Civitavecchia, Naples, and Palermo. If you're already in Sardinia, the city is easily accessible via the SS131, which connects the north and center of the island to the capital in about 2–3 hours.
Getting around Cagliari: ZTL and parking
Driving in Cagliari is possible, but it’s important to know which areas are restricted to traffic. Cagliari’s ZTL mainly covers the historic Castello district and some central areas, with hours varying by day of the week and time slots. In general, access is prohibited to unauthorized vehicles from Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 7:30 PM, and Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, while access is generally unrestricted on Sundays and holidays, unless special events or temporary restrictions apply.
If you're staying in accommodation within the ZTL, ask in advance if they can register your license plate to obtain a temporary permit.
Where to park in Cagliari: useful tips
Cagliari offers numerous paid parking options, with rates ranging from €0.50 to €1.50 per hour depending on the area. The more central areas near historic districts usually require payment from Monday to Saturday, typically between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. After this time and on holidays, parking is generally free.
To reach the Castello district via public elevators, you can use the Regina Elena Parking lot. If you’re looking for free parking in Cagliari, consider the station area and Via Santa Gilla, or, slightly outside the center, residential areas like Is Mirrionis and San Benedetto.
Looking for a convenient way to get around Cagliari and its surroundings? Try our car rental service at Cagliari Airport, perfect if you're flying into Sardinia.
