Cagliari’s local markets: a true institution of the city
In Cagliari, the local markets are genuine institutions where you can find quality products and countless services.
One of the many experiences not to be missed on a holiday in Cagliari is a visit to its markets, true institutions in town, where you can find a unique atmosphere, great quality products and the most varied services. These include mycological control for mushrooms, blades sharpening, duplication of keys, the shoemaker, the goldsmith and the Telematic Postman.
The Civic Markets, where Cagliari’s people shop and eat
There is nothing better to really get to know a town than a full immersion in the places frequented by the locals. The Civic Markets in Cagliari are not to be missed, they offer a picturesque and lively atmosphere with vibrant energy where true Cagliarians go shopping and stop for a quick bite.
Let’s discover them together.
Mercato Civico di San Benedetto
Inaugurated in 1957, San Benedetto’s Civic Market is the largest in Europe with its 8000 square meters of exhibition spread over two floors. The ground floor houses the fish market, an authentic excellence offering local and non-local fish, as well as many fryers where to enjoy the best of the catch on the spot. The fruit and vegetable departments are upstairs along with various other products, meats and services. The best time to visit it is early in the morning to be surprised by the freshest treasures of Sardinian gastronomy with their intense scents and colours.
Mercato Civico di Santa Chiara
In the heart of Cagliari, in the historic district of Stampace, Santa Chiara’s Civic Market is the oldest in the city and is located in the Convento delle Clarisse area. The convent was destroyed by bombing in 1943 and only some ruins remain today. This is a typical neighbourhood market dedicated to groceries, it is 300 square meters large and offers real gastronomic delights. Recently, it has taken on the role of “Tourist Market”, a tasting centre for the city’s food and wine products with highly trained staff who can assist customers in French, English and Spanish.
Mercato Civico di Is Biangias
In the homonymous residential district in Pirri, the Is Biangias’ Civic Market stands out for its excellent position, 15 minutes from the historic centre, the Molentargius natural park and the Poetto promenade. With an area of 400 square meters, it is a small city market but boasts an indisputable variety and quality of products.
Mercato Civico di Sant’Elia
Opened in 1997, Sant’Elia’s Civic Market consists of three floors above ground, about 3000 square meters in area, that have taken over the concessionaires of the old markets, now closed, of Santa Teresa, La Palma and Via Pola. The market’s jewel is the wine shop that offers the best of local wines to taste and buy.
Mercato Civico di Via Quirra
The second largest market in Cagliari after San Benedetto’s, the Civic Market of Via Quirra can be found in the district of Is Mirrionis. Active since 1986, it is spread over two floors: on the ground floor, the fish market and an area dedicated to beef and pork products while on the upper floor poultry, horse meat, fruit and vegetable, other fares and various services can be found.
Weekend open-air markets, perfect for a leisurely stroll
The relaxed atmosphere of the weekend is best enjoyed walking along the streets and squares of Cagliari animated by the characteristic markets, looking for good food, interesting objects or simply discovering something new.
Here is a selection of those not to be missed.
Mercatino Antiquariando e collezionando
The Antiquariando e collezionando market is staged in Piazza del Carmine, in the historic centre of Cagliari, every Sunday from 8am to 2pm. The non-profit association “Antiquariando e Collezionando Cagliari” offers arts and crafts fares, collectables, antiques, exhibitions, philately and vintage treasures.
Mercato Cuore
The Mercatino Cuore Sant’Elia is held every Sunday morning in the old Sant’Elia stadium’s parking area, Parcheggio Cuore. This is a good place for a pleasant walk looking for good deals on books, clothes, costume jewellery, food and household items.
Mercato Sant’Elia
Sant’Elia’s Market is held on Sunday mornings, in Via dei Navigatori at the Lazzaretto, one of the most important cultural centres of Cagliari. An outdoor market with fresh fish, groceries, fruit, vegetables and much more.
Mercatino di Piazza Giovanni XXIII
Every Sunday, the Associazione Giovanni XXIII organises, in the residential district of San Benedetto, this market dedicated to arts and crafts, antiques, vintage, flowers, books and much more. The focus is on the quality of the products on display, an engaging experience for Cagliarians and tourists alike.
Doglio Market
On Sundays, the Courtyard of Palazzo Doglio, a luxury resort in the centre of Cagliari, welcomes Doglio Market, a showcase of excellent food and wine Made in Italy with a particular focus on Sardinian products. The visitors can discover, amongst a blaze of colours and scents, the behind-the-scenes details of these amazing fares directly by the producers who can answer questions and recount curiosities.
Would you like to visit Cagliari’s markets and enjoy a charming and elegant holiday? Book a stay at Palazzo Doglio in Cagliari
