An institution since 1914, Il Lido has evolved since then far beyond a classic beach club. Set within its sleek white structure, it gathers some of the liveliest spots on the shoreline – from a café, two seafood restaurants and a pizzeria to rotating fashion boutiques, an ice cream store and an evening club. From morning espresso to late-night dancing, it remains a favourite meeting point for Cagliaritani by the sea.

Overlooking the palm-lined boulevard of Poetto, an area that's anything but short on great restaurants, Antica Cagliari has earned its place as a local favourite for fresh seafood and traditional Sardinian cuisine. Order the pescato del giorno, or settle in on the terrace with a pizza as the sun sets over the coastline.

The saddle-shaped silhouette of Sella del Diavolo is one of Cagliari’s most recognisable landmarks. A scenic hiking trail winds through Mediterranean scrub to panoramic viewpoints over the Gulf of Angels, where the curve of Poetto, the city skyline and flamingo-dotted lagoons stretch below.

Along Poetto’s seaside promenade, Bobocono is a favourite stop for a post-swim gelato. Expect creamy scoops from orange cheesecake to the evergreen (no pun intended) pistachio.