As with many cities in Europe, Cagliari has a rich historic centre and many ways in which visitors can explore this fascinating past. If you are researching sightseeing options, I encourage you to consider a guided tour of Cagliari by Segway. As a resident of the city, studying archaeology at the university here, I was as interested to try the Segway itself as I was to learn what a tour of my home city really offers our visitors. Full Disclosure: Archaeology Travel paid for this activity in full. We chose to review this activity as part of our Sardinia Travel Guide; we were not asked to review it by the providers or the ticket sellers. And neither have had any input into this article.
- Gianluca Pitzeri
- Last Checked and/or Updated 10 August 2023
- No Comments
- Italy Travel Tips & Ideas, Sardinia
Booking the Segway Tour Online
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There are many ways to discover the historic city of Cagliari. Guided tours offer the possibility of visiting hidden corners with fascinating and enlightening anecdotes that only local guides can tell you.
Among the many alternatives on offer, I came across one organised by NewWaySardinia that caught my attention: a 3-hour Segway tour of Cagliari. For those who don’t know, a Segway is a personal vehicle that consists of two wheels on either side of a platform, which the rider stands on while holding on to handlebars. As an electric vehicle this is an eco-friendly means of transport, that allows you to breeze up and down the alleys and streets of the Sardinian capital, seeing much more of the city with less effort.
Walking tours through the historic centre lead you up winding alleys and countless steps to the top of the Castello district walk under the scorching summer sun. Riding a Segway makes this very same journey a much more thrilling and fun way to explore the city. In fact, when the guide parks up to point out interesting features and places en route, you will be restless to get going again.
Not your first time on a Segway? Then this option to see Cagliari is definitely for you. If, on the other hand, you are a first-time user like me, intrigued but apprehensive of your abilities, let me recount my experience, what you get to see and, most importantly, whether it was worth it.
Archaeology Travel Tips
- There are four different time slots to choose from: 10h00 – 12h30 – 15h15 – 17h30. In the hotter months of July and August, or at times when temperatures are exceptionally high, it is a good idea to avoid the hours when the sun is at its highest, as the heat and humidity will make it difficult to enjoy the guided tour.
- The Segway relies on your balance and correct weight distribution, so to avoid unpleasant situations, do not consume alcohol before the tour.
- There are a few restrictions on its use: the permitted age is between 11 and 75 years of age, while the weight ranges from a minimum of 40 kg to a maximum of 120 kg.
Cagliari by Segway
I booked the 10 am tour on GetYourGuide, one of the best times, along with 5.30 pm. The starting point is in front of the church of Santa Eulalia, where you will learn the basics you need to know to take your first steps.
My first impressions were slightly uneasy. It felt a bit like riding a bike for the first time, but without all the falling over. It is a continual search for the right centre of gravity, in which all you have to do is lean in the desired direction by inclining on the handlebars. That might not sound like much instruction, but believe me when I tell you that it is highly natural and intuitive. The learning curve for riding a Segway is much easier than riding a bike.
Obviously, you must avoid falling into the overconfidence trap, especially if you are a beginner: always pay attention and take your time. As I like to keep fit and regularly participate in sporting activities, I had little difficulties maintaining my balance. Of course this varies from person to person. But rest assured, the guide will always be watching you, ready to intervene in any eventuality. And while groups vary from one to eight people, larger groups benefit from two guides: one at the front and one at the back.
Once we have learnt the basics of movement and donned our helmets, we are ready to go. But what will you see along the way?
The Sights of Cagliari
• The tour starts, and ends, at Sant’Eulalia – a historic church with an archaeological excavation beneath it (well worth visiting after your tour). From here you will explore the picturesque district of Villanova, passing by the imposing and striking Bastion of Saint Remy. Villanova is one of the most charming parts of the city.
• You will see beautiful views of Cagliari from several vantage points, such as Castello, Viale Regina Elena or Piazza Aquilino Cannas (the last is one of my favourite).
• Passing through Porta Cristina and Porta San Pancrazio, both still entrances to the medieval quarter, you arrive at the Cagliari amphitheatre (read about the city’s Roman arena);
• A 10-15 minute stop in Piazza Palazzo, where it is possible to go inside the Cathedral of Cagliari, known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. Built in the 13th century, it is the most important religious building in Cagliari. If you go in, don’t miss the Sanctuary of the Martyrs in the crypt.
• Cruising through the narrow streets of Castello you will see building that still bear the scars of the Second World War. Besides riding by the tower of San Pancrazio, you will also see the carved elephant from which the Elephant Tower takes its name – now one of the symbols of Cagliari.
• When the tour is almost over there will be a stop at the café, where you can refresh yourself with a coffee. I strongly recommend you try a pizzetta sfoglia, preferably slightly warm, a savoury pastry typical of Cagliari.
Is It Worth it?
So how do I rate this experience? Positively, without doubt.
Having never driven a Segway before, I started out with doubts. As one does with anything, however, I was keen to try it. And I happily admit that I fell in love with riding a Segway. From the moment I placed my feet on the footboard, I never once felt in danger or that I lacked control of the vehicle. Remember, the vehicle is set to slow mode making it impossible for anyone to speed off, out of control. Early on in the tour busy roads were a bit tricky for me, as having to stand still while letting cars pass took a bit of practice. But I quickly got the hang of it.
The three hours flew by. At many points along the way our guide would stop us to point out something interesting, give us some history, or just to let us take a photograph or two. The immensely enjoyable physical experience of ‘riding’ from one point of interest to another was greatly enhanced by the knowledge and enthusiasm of our guide. Luca, friendly and informative, told us many curious and amusing anecdotes. Not surprisingly, the Segway is loved by children, who have a lot of fun riding it.
One of the factors that definitely influences the choice of whether or not to take the tour is the price: €65 per person is certainly not a small amount. But know that should you decide to do it, I am confident you will not regret it. As for me, I will definitely consider taking another Segway tour when visiting cities from now on. I can not wait to ride a Segway again.
This Segway tour of Cagliari is a fun and enjoyable way of discovering more of the city, faster and sustainably. It is especially suited for visitors with little time, whether you have only a few days in Cagliari or a few hours for a shore excursion, or anyone who just enjoys this kind of activity.
More Things to Do in Cagliari with NewWaySardinia
NewWaySardinia also offers other Segway and bike tours. Take a Segway to the Molentargius Natural Park. Alternatively, you can also take a bike tour to Molentargius Natural Park. Besides the Segway tour I did, the company also offers a 2-hour bike tour of Cagliari.
Archaeology Travel Writer
