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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
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Road Genius makes it easy to find great rental car deals in Cagliari. Compare rates and make bookings in one place. Choose a car rental at Cagliari Airport (CAG), the city center or the port, then visit southern Sardinia highlights like Villasimius, Chia and Nora at your own pace. Book early for July to August and check ZTL rules in the city center to avoid fines.
| Location Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cagliari Airport (CAG) | • Immediate vehicle access upon arrival • All major rental companies present • Wider vehicle selection |
• Airport surcharges (approximately 16%) • 7 km (4 miles) from the city center • Wait times during peak flight arrivals |
| Cagliari City Center | • Convenient for those already in the city • No airport fees • Multiple locations around the city |
• Limited vehicle selection • Restricted opening hours • Navigating city traffic initially |
| Cagliari Port | • Convenient for ferry arrivals • Walking distance from the port |
• Limited company options • Smaller offices with restricted hours • Higher rates than the airport |
On average, car rentals in Cagliari cost around €89 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €8 per day.
Compare pickup spots: Cagliari Airport adds about 16% in surcharges. City center locations often cost less if you’re already in town. Port offices can be pricier with fewer cars.
Time your booking: For July–August, book 2–3 months ahead. In May–June, September or Oct–Apr, monitor prices and use free-cancel options so you can rebook if rates drop.
Pick a smaller, manual car: Compacts are cheaper to rent, fuel and park. Manuals cost less than automatics in Sardinia.
Check 7+ day pricing: Weekly rates can beat 4–6 day totals. Compare a 7-day quote against your exact dates.
Minimise add-ons: Extra driver ~€10/day, young driver ~€20/day. Add only if necessary. Same-location return can avoid €50–100 one-way fees within Sardinia.
Fuel smart near CAG: Most bookings are full-to-full. Refill at the ENI (SS130) or IP (Viale Elmas), use self-service for lower prices, and keep the receipt.
| Type | Identification | Cost (Approximate) | Local Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Parking (City) | Blue lines | Paid | Time limits often apply. Pay at meters or via apps. Some areas free during lunch hours (1-3pm). |
| Free Parking | White lines | Free | Limited in the city center, more common in residential areas. |
| Parking Garages | Signed "P" | Paid | Several options in the city center. Most secure option for overnight. |
| Beach Parking | Varies | Paid or permit required | Popular beaches have organized spots that fill early in high season. |
Many hotels within ZTL can register your plate for access - arrange in advance
Drive on the right, overtake on the left
Get a car so you can easily:
Villasimius - beaches
Chia - beaches, dunes
Pula/Nora - Roman ruins
Barumini (Su Nuraxi) - nuraghe
How do I avoid ZTL fines in Cagliari?
Find out where the ZTLs are before your trip, use a GPS that warns you about them and look for "ZTL" or "Area Pedonale" signs when you're driving. If your hotel is inside a ZTL, contact them before you arrive so they can register your car.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Cagliari?
You'll need to show a valid driver's license, an International Driving Permit (if you're from outside the EU), a credit card in the driver's name and your passport or ID card.
Is it worth having a car if I'm only staying in Cagliari city?
If you're just exploring Cagliari, you probably don't need a car. The city center is small, easy to walk around and has good public transport. But, if you want to visit beaches or ancient sites in southern Sardinia, renting a car is very helpful.
Can I take my rental car on ferries to smaller islands?
Some rental companies will let you take the car on a ferry to La Maddalena island, but you have to let them know beforehand. For other small islands like San Pietro, you should ask your rental company if it's allowed and if you need to buy extra insurance.
How far in advance should I book a car for summer travel to Cagliari?
If you're traveling in July or August, you should book your car at least 2-3 months early. This helps you get a better price and make sure a car is available, especially if you need a specific type like an automatic.
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