Cagliari Airport CAG: Departures and guide

Flying from/to Cagliari Airport

Find out the best way to get from Cagliari Airport to the city centre by doing some research in advance. Should you take a train, bus or a tram from the airport to and from the city centre? Our guide to Cagliari Airport and the facilities mean you can find your way around the terminal upon arriving and plan the rest of your trip—whether its for a short weekend or a little longer.

Travel from Cagliari city center to Cagliari Airport

Cagliari is a city in Italy's southern island of Sardinia. The city has a rich history that stretches back to Neolithic times, and a Mediterranean climate that draws in tourists from all corners of the globe. Summer is a particularly busy season for Cagliari as its beaches are world renowned, however it also has cultural and historical landmarks that entertain visitors all year round. Despite its status as a truly ancient city, Cagliari's public transportation system consists of railways, ferries, trams, subway and buses. Cagliari Airport is located just under four and a half miles (7 kilometers) northwest of Cagliari city center.

What's the best way to get to Cagliari Airport from Cagliari city center?

The best way to get to Cagliari is by bus. There are airport buses traveling from the city center to the airport every 30 minutes and buses arrive at either the arrivals or the departures areas. Buses to the arrivals area operate between 8:40 a.m. and 11:30 p.m., while buses to the departures area operate between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. The second best way to get to the airport is by train. The train departs Cagliari Central Station and arrives at Cagliari Airport, or Elmas Aeroporto, in just ten minutes. However, it is a ten minute walk to the airport from the airport train station, so for passengers with heavy luggage may find this a less practical option. 

How far is it from Cagliari city center to Cagliari Airport?

Cagliari Airport is just under four and a half miles (7 kilometers) northwest of Cagliari city center. Buses and trains provide fairly fast and reliable routes to the airport. Trains may be a better option for travelers without heavy luggage or who don't mind walking, as trains avoid the traffic that often congests Cagliari's roads. Travelers can also take a car or taxi to the airport and arrive at the taxi drop-off point by the terminal. Cars take ten to 18 minutes to make the journey without traffic. Cars and buses can take mostly motorways along this route, but traffic is still of concern in this popular city. It is recommended travelers leave at least 30 to 60 minutes to reach the airport in time for check-in, especially during rush hour. 

What facilities are there at Cagliari Airport?

Cagliari Airport is a small international facility with one terminal, two runways and two levels: the ground and first floors. Known locally as Cagliari Elmas Airport, it is frequented by major budget operators Ryanair and Eurowings, as well as national European airlines like Volotea and Lufthansa. There are several meeting rooms and one large conference room in the airport's business center, and shopping amenities including jewellery and souvenirs for passengers waiting for flights. Travelers can eat at one of the airport's handful of restaurants, bars and cafes, and use the airport's financial services like banks and currency exchange desks.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Passengers with limited mobility are best taking a car or taxi to the airport as public transportation cannot be guaranteed to be accessible for all. Cagliari Airport offers services for any passengers with limited mobility, but request that this be booked in advance of passengers' arrival at the airport so that they have time to adequately prepare. The airport will assist with luggage, moving around the airport, boarding the plane, and anything else that is required for a comfortable experience in the airport.

Local tips: how to travel to Cagliari Airport like a local

Locals traveling during peak hours take public transit, and often opt for the train even with the longer walk it requires from the Elmas Aeroporto train station to the airport. Travelers who want to avoid the walk take the bus and make sure to leave plenty of time for their journey. Those with limited mobility take a car or taxi if they cannot guarantee the accessibility of the airport routes ahead of time. Locals prefer to eat at the airport's cafes and restaurants rather than bring food with them on the train.