Cagliari’s beloved beach stretches for eight kilometres along the southern edge of town, a long sweep of pale sand backed by lidos and pastel kiosks. From early morning swims to sunset aperitivo, Poetto is where the pulse of local life is found.

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.

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.

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.