Ed.: The Inspired Stays series highlights hotels we love around Italy. Each property is independently reviewed by an Italy Magazine writer, who is generally hosted on a complimentary basis. Our contributors do not accept compensation or gifts in exchange for specific types of coverage. We only showcase properties we would genuinely recommend overall.
Why we love it
Behind Palazzo Doglio’s distinctive Art Nouveau façade and imposing entrance is the hotel’s most surprising feature: an immense pedestrian courtyard — more of a piazza — with boutiques, galleries, gourmet shops and bistros that form a border around a cascading fountain. Part of an urban regeneration project for its sun-soaked host neighborhood in Cagliari, the hotel is an encouraging example of private space being used to benefit the public and reinvigorate the community.
What to expect
With interiors decked out in pearl grey and chocolate brown with jewel-toned flourishes here and there, the ambience here feels sophisticated without too much fuss. White Carrara and earthy Emperador marbles line the lobby and hallways that lead to 72 contemporary-style rooms and suites.
Background
Operated by hotelier Lorenzo Giannuzzi, who’s also the brains behind the Forte Village in Sardinia and the Palazzo Fiuggi wellness retreat back on the Italian mainland in Lazio, the renovated Palazzo Doglio is an elegant 20th-century structure that covers an entire block. The urban regeneration project of which it is part also involves the once-abandoned Teatro Doglio, just across the street, now revived as a thousand-seat performance and conference venue.
Location, location, location
The hotel’s immediate surroundings are undergoing long-term development, and guests may notice the work-in-progress vibe during their stays; this is the Villanova neighborhood, one of Cagliari’s four historic districts. The hotel is steps from Cagliari’s famous Piazza San Cosimo, where the early Christian Basilica of San Saturnino stands. The square is a jumping-off point to green spaces, such as the Parco delle Rimembranze and Parco Martiri delle Foibe; a short walk away is the Poetto seafront, where hotel guests have access to a designated beach area.
Where you’ll sleep
Even small rooms at Palazzo Doglio are surprisingly spacious and flooded with natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows; note that most lower-priced rooms are street-facing. Standard suites are equipped with separate living areas and upscale finishes, while executive suites, expectedly a cut above, come with all of the usual amenities, plus large balconies, original artwork and marble bathrooms with both walk-in rain showers and luxurious soaking tubs.
Dining & drinks
Palazzo Doglio collects an impressive range of eateries and bars under one roof, including a bakery, a gourmet pizzeria, a South American-inspired tapas grill, a Brazilian sushi spot and, most famously, Osteria del Forte, the most Michelin-starred restaurant in Sardinia and a generator of a lot of foodie buzz on the island. The best place for sipping an afternoon aperitif or a nightcap is the American Bar. If you’re visiting in winter, don’t skip the vin brulé (mulled wine), served with chestnuts and hot chocolate.
Service notes
Five-star Palazzo Doglio offers all the top-notch services you expect from a luxury property, including 24/7 room service, valet parking and turndown service. Staff were warm and friendly during my stay.
Spa time
Below ground, a 400-square-meter spa features a heated pool with hydromassage jets, a sauna, a Turkish bath and a cozy tea corner. Customized treatments can be booked, from restful massages to facials to body scrubs, all designed to promote relaxation, health and serenity. The well-equipped fitness studio offers one-on-one personal trainer services, as well as yoga, Pilates, aerobics and stretching classes.
Family perks
Children stay free, though they are prohibited from entering areas like the spa. Connecting rooms are available, and babysitting can be arranged, for a surcharge. The courtyard hosts markets, festivals, musical performances and events, while next door, the theatre stages family-friendly shows.
You should know...
In line with its gastronomic leanings, the hotel offers a program of Sardinian cooking classes and wine-tasting experiences.
Accessibility
- The hotel has an elevator to all floors, and some units are wheelchair accessible.
Features & amenities
- City setting
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Onsite shopping
- Free WiFi
- Valet parking
- Spa
- Pool
- Fitness room
- Seaside access
Contacts
Palazzo Doglio
Vico Logudoro, Cagliari
Tel. +39 07064640
Website
