Cagliari is situated in the Gulf of Angels (Golfo degli Angeli). The old town, Castello, surrounded by a high twelfth century wall, offers a visit to its watchtowers: the Elephant Tower and San Pancrazio, from where a magnificent panorama opens from a height of 130 m. Also of interest to tourists is the former Palace of the Viceroy of Italy (XVIIth century) which is now the City Prefecture.
While strolling through the old town, don't miss the St. Mary's Cathedral in the Palace Square, which was started in the 13th century and completed in the 17th century. The interior is decorated with works of Italian painters of the 17th-18th centuries, sculptures of the 13th-14th centuries, silver chandeliers and a model of a chapel made by Spanish masters in the 16th century.
It is pleasant to stroll along the pedestrian zones of Via Manno and Via Garibaldi and walk along the central Via Roma. Leave the city centre and head for the town's Poetto beach or Monte Urpino hill to see flocks of pink flamingos.
Even the most ordinary walks in Cagliari offer plenty to see and do. Cagliarians love graffiti and the walls of their homes feature cute little fish images, stylized writings, and graffiti paintings.
Cagliari's sightseeing map includes areas that are off-limits to cars. Cagliari's most interesting hiking trails run through the city centre. There is plenty to see and attractions are fairly compactly arranged. Cagliari's centre is built on hills, so the walking routes are a succession of ascents and descents. So save your high heels for the nightclubs.
