19 Best Things To Do In Sassari, Sardinia, By A Local

If you are traveling to northern Sardinia, you may be wondering “where is Sassari?” or “is Sassari worth visiting?” or even “are there things to do in Sassari”?

Don’t worry, I know Sassari very well, and here I will tell you everything you need to know so that you can decide if you want to visit or not (hint: you should).

My sister lived in Sassari for 10 years, so as you can imagine, I have been to the city many times and explored it widely. In fact, I was there for New Year’s Eve celebration, and last May to attend one of its most famous festivals. As always, I really enjoyed it.

Sassari is a great lesser-visited place in Sardinia, especially when compared to the capital Cagliari and to other cities like Alghero (by the way, you can visit Sassari on a day trip from Alghero).

So, where is Sassari? Sassari is in the northwest of Sardinia, 9 kilometers (about 5.6 miles) from the coast, inside the Asinara Gulf. It is the second largest city in Sardinia, and the fifth Italian city by area (546,08 km²). Its territory, a great combination of hills and a fertile plain slowly fading into the sea, has been a blessing and the main reason for this city’s prosperity for several centuries now.

Sassari is one of the most interesting cities in Sardinia, and if you happen to be roaming around the north of the island, you may add it to your itinerary and spend a few days exploring its surroundings too.

Curious to find out more? Continue reading as I will highlight the best things to do in Sassari, what to see near Sassari, and more tips to help you plan your visit.

Want some local, expert help to plan your trip to Sardinia? Book a one-hour travel consultation with Claudia, and join the Strictly Sardinia Facebook Community.

Sassari At A Glance

What is Sassari?

Sassari is the second-largest city in Sardinia and the cultural hub of the northwest. It’s an inland city known for its historic center, university atmosphere, religious traditions, and strong local identity. It works well as a cultural stop between Alghero and the northern coast.

Who is Sassari for?

Travelers interested in history, local food, festivals, and everyday Sardinian life. It suits visitors who want more than beaches and prefer walking through lived-in neighborhoods rather than resort areas.

How long do you need in Sassari?

• Half day: main squares, cathedral, Fontana di Rosello
• 1 day: add museums and a proper lunch stop
• 2 days: include Monte d’Accoddi or nearby coastal areas

Best time to visit Sassari

Late spring and early autumn for mild weather. May for the Cavalcata Sarda. August for the Faradda dei Candelieri. December for Christmas lights and markets.

Best Things To Do In Sassari, Italy

I Candelieri Festival

• What it is – Sassari’s most famous festival
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – Half day (evening event)
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – Arrive early and pick a good spot along the itinerary

Held yearly on the 14th of August, the Candelieri festival is reason enough to visit Sassari – it’s been taking place each year for over 700 years. If you happen to be in the area in mid August and want to see something truly local, this is what to do in Sassari.

Known as the “Faradda di li Candareri”, the festival dates back to the late Middle Ages and celebrates a vow made to the Madonna Assunta (Our Lady of the Assumption) after a plague ended in the 1500s.

The core of the celebrations is the Descent of the Candelieri, during which the “Gremi” which are the nine worker guilds in Sardinia, walk through the city carrying ornately decorated wooden columns called candelieri, each representing one of the city’s historic guilds, such as farmers, blacksmiths, or carpenters.

These structures are about 4–5 meters tall and weigh several hundred kilos. Teams of bearers carry them through the historic center in a swaying dance-like march that ends at the church of Santa Maria di Betlem.

In 2013, the festival was included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list as part of the network of large shoulder-borne processions in Italy (one of them is the Macchina di Santa Rosa of Viterbo, where my dad is from).

If you are traveling with children, don’t miss the descent of the children Candelieri!

Local tips: The best spots to see the Candelieri are Piazza Castello, which is the starding point, the Palazzo di Città in Corso Vittorio Emanuele, one of the peak moments of the parade, and Piazza Santa Maria, where the parade ends. The parade typically starts around 6:00 pm, so I recommend finding a spot no later than 4:30 pm. It’s best to walk to the center of town, as it is closed to traffic during the celebrations.

My post, Most Famous Events And Festivals In Sardinia, highlights other unique festivals you may want to attend during your trip to Sardinia.

The Cavalcata Sarda

• What it is – Sassari’s celebration of Sardinian traditions and costumes
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – Full day
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – Don’t miss the food stands in Corso Francesco Cossiga

Further about festivals: if you are looking for what to do in Sassari in May, consider attending Sassari’s famous Cavalcata Sarda, one of the best traditional festivals in Sardinia that has no religious roots.

The festival takes place every year on the second Sunday in May. The first edition took place in 1711, when the mayor of Sassari decided to organize a parade to honor King Philip I of Spain, who was then ruling Sardinia. All the nobles of Sassari participated in this horse parade (hence the name Cavalcata) as an occasion to show their best costumes and their riches.

After that, no more parades took place until 1899, almost two decades after the unification of Italy. Back then, the occasion was the visit of King Umberto I and his wife Queen Margherita of Savoy, who visited Sassari for the unveiling of the Sartorio (Sardinia’s most prominent sculpture artist) statue of Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of unified Italy.

The show stopped again soon afterwards. Local authorities decided to celebrate the festival again in 1951.

Today, representatives of 60 Sardinian towns and villages parade through the streets of the historic center of Sassari in their traditional costumes and ornate jewels, accompanied by traditional music and dances.

There is also an equestrian show and horseback acrobatics. Along the squares, there are food stalls selling local delicacies to people attending the festival.

Attending the show is completely free – you can find a spot along the streets of the itinerary. However, if you’d rather sit (in the shade), you can also grab a ticket. They are on sale in the two weeks immediately before the festival at a shop called Le Ragazze Terribili in via Roma 144 and on the website Ticketone.

Expert tips: You can see the Cavalcata Sarda in the historic center of Sassari, but one of the best spots is unmistakably Piazza d’Italia. Another spot would be near Emiciclo Garibaldi. Most of the city center is closed to traffic during the festival, so you will be better off parking outside and either walking or taking a bus. Try to be there early in the morning (around 8:30 to 9:00 am) to grab a good spot.

I wrote a detailed post about The Cavalcata Sarda, which gives more insights into this unique festival.

Piazza Castello

• What it is – One of the main town squares
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – 15 minutes
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – sit at one of the benches to observe local life

I recommend using Piazza Castello as your starting point if you are having a walking tour of Sassari.

Piazza Castello gets its name from the ancient Aragonese castle (Castello) that used to be there, built in the 14th century and demolished in 1877 because considered a symbol of oppression and slavery, as it belonged to the ancient Spanish rulers and had been the site of the Spanish Inquisition Court in Sardinia.

You can still see a part of the old building that is now open to visitors. The square has been one of the main meeting points in the city since the 1300s. Locals love it and cherish it, as it represents the middle ground between the old Sassari and the new one, which would be Piazza Italia.

It’s just about halfway between the famous Piazza d’Italia and the Emiciclo Garibaldi, which marks one of the entrances of the historic center of Sassari.

Good to know: The historic center of Sassari is small and easy to explore independently, but for context, you may want to join this guided tour that visits all the most important landmarks in the city.

Piazza d’Italia

• What it is – Sassari’s most important square
• Where – Just out of the historic center
• Time needed – 15-20 minutes
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – sit at one of the cafés in the square to sip aperitivo or coffee

Located right outside the medieval fortifications, Piazza d’Italia was one of the first urban innovations of the 19th century. That’s when the defensive walls of Sassari were demolished, and the city expanded. It was also partially rebuilt to accommodate more people and the new needs of modern society and industries.

In the square’s center, there’s a statue of Vittorio Emanuele II, sculpted by Giuseppe Sartorio. Its inauguration ceremony was also the beginning of the important and typical event in Sassari that I have mentioned above: the Cavalcata Sarda.

This place is, like Piazza Castello, a hot meeting spot for locals and tourists. It’s not uncommon to find locals sitting at one of the many cafés that line the square, under the porticos that lead to Piazza Castello. They are particularly lively during the weekend, and on Sunday evening when everyone meets for a last drink before the beginning of the working week.

If you happen to be in Sassari for the Christmas holidays, you will find Piazza d’Italia beautifully decorated, with a small ice-rink where children can have fun, and hosting one of the most popular Christmas Markets in the city.

Located in Piazza d’Italia, there are two buildings considered to be symbols of the city.

One is Palazzo Sciuti, now headquarters of the Provincial Government, which was originally the place where Kings and Queens visiting Sassari stayed. The other is Palazzo Giordano, a beautiful Gothic palace from 1878, which is now the main branch of a big bank chain.

If you keep walking from here, you’ll find more important landmarks of Sassari’s art and history: its most beautiful churches.

San Nicola da Bari Cathedral

• What it is – Sassari’s Cathedral
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – 30 minutes
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – Sunday mass is when the church is busiest

Visiting churches is one of the best things to do in Sassari, and this is the first one you should go to.

The church of San Nicola da Bari, commonly called Duomo, is located in the historic center near Piazza Duomo. It became a cathedral in 1441, when Sassari became an episcopal seat, but already existed as a paleo-Christian sacred area from earlier times.

There’s not much left from its first components. The church we see today dates from the late 12th century. However, you can still see some remains under the apsis.

The current façade is a striking example of Baroque architecture, completed in the 18th century with ornate carvings and statues. Inside, the layout reflects earlier Gothic and Catalan influences, with a single nave and side chapels added over time.

Notable features include the 16th-century wooden choir, several marble altars, and works by local artists. The bell tower retains Romanesque elements.

The church remains an active place of worship (I came across mass being celebrated there even the last time I was in Sassari, on New Year’s) and plays a central role in major religious events, including Holy Week processions that are deeply rooted in Sassari’s traditions.

It definitely is an architectonic gem. Despite the mix of styles piled up through time, many say that it would look ugly and incomplete if it were to miss a single detail. And I must agree with them.

Santa Maria di Betlem Church

• What it is – An important church
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – 20 minutes
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – It’s especially beautiful during the Candelieri festival

This is one of the most important churches in Sassari, located just outside the historic center along Corso Vittorio Emanuele. It was built by the Franciscan order starting in the 13th century and expanded over the following centuries.

Its current structure reflects a mix of Gothic and later additions: while it has a humble outside appearance, the Romanesque façade hides a splendid, sumptuous Gothic inner structure, rich in relics and decorations, as it was customary during those times.

The church has a single nave covered by wooden trusses, with side chapels added between the 16th and 18th centuries. The altars are in Baroque style.

Santa Maria di Betlem Church is particularly important as it’s the starting point of the Faradda dei Candelieri.

Fontana di Rosello

• What it is – Sassari’s most famous historic fountain
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – 10 minutes
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – Take in the lovely, quiet atmosphere

After visiting these two important religious monuments, why not look for a quiet place to relax?

Unanimously considered Sassari’s symbol, you will find this beautiful fountain next to the homonymous hill and bridge. It was built to symbolize the endless flowing of time, represented by its twelve mouths (the months in a year) and four statues (the seasons).

At the center, you can see a sculpted pedestal topped by a statue of Saint Gavino on horseback that was added in the 18th century.

The monument was seen as a great innovation in concept and style at the time it was built (the beginning of the 17th century, between 1603 and 1606), around an older medieval spring that supplied water to the city. Commissioned during Spanish rule, it is in a Renaissance design. Locals, artists, and visitors have loved it since.

Of the four statues that used to decorate the fountain, the only original one left is stored in the Palazzo Ducale. The other three were destroyed during an uprising. This means all four statues at the fountain are copies, but nevertheless stunning.

The fountain is so important that it marks the final point of the procession of the Faradda dei Candelieri.

Giardini Pubblici

• What it is – Local park
• Where – Just outside the historic center
• Time needed – Depends on what you wish to do
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – It’s a great shaded spot in the summer

One of my favorite things to do in Sassari in the summer is relaxing in the beautiful Giardini Pubblici that are located in the city center.

Don’t forget that Sassari isn’t by the sea; there’s no beach in the city, so you have to find shaded and breezy areas for some fresh air during the hottest hours of the day. That’s why this is a central meeting point for locals.

The Giardini Pubblici are the city’s main historic public gardens, located near the northern edge of the old center along Via Roma. They were created around 1870 as part of urban expansion outside the medieval walls, and now count three separate areas.

The first one, between Via Tavolara and Viale Italia, is surrounded by an enclosure and is the only area with a playground for children.

The second area, between Via Tavolara and Via Coppino, is the broadest and hosts a collection of trees, both indigenous and foreign, and two stunning fountains.

The third and last area is between Via Manno and Viale Italia and is mainly used as a rest area by locals using public transportation.

There are straight paths, shaded walkways (thanks to pines, palms, and plane trees), open lawns, and several monuments dedicated to local figures, including statues of politicians and cultural personalities from Sassari.

Padiglione Tavolara

• What it is – Exhibit space
• Where – Within the Giardini Pubblici
• Time needed – Depends on the exhibit
• Cost – Depends on the exhibit
• Local tip – Follow on social media for info about events and exhibits

The Padiglione Tavolara is a historic exhibition space in Sassari, located along Via Tavolara, within the grounds of the Giardini Pubblici.

The building dates back to the early 20th century and was originally constructed as a covered market and commercial pavilion. Its design reflects the typical industrial architecture of the period, with a functional layout and large interior volume suited to public use.

Over time, the structure lost its original commercial role and was restored for cultural purposes. Today, the Padiglione Tavolara is used to host temporary exhibits, including contemporary art shows, photography displays, and cultural events.

Last time I was in Sassari, I visited a special exhibit entirely dedicated to impressionist art, with stunning pieces by Monet on display.

Emiciclo Garibaldi

• What it is – Square
• Where – Just outside the historic center
• Time needed – 10 minutes
• Cost – Free
• Local tip – Stop here for coffee as you move from one side of the city to the other

This square is famous for its shops and cafes, where you can take a rest after – or in between – your explorations.

When it was planned (after Italy’s unification), the architect in charge had thought of building a big, round square. The idea was to give people a place where they could meet and enjoy some time together.

However, the project was never finished, and the round-to-be square remained the semi-circular place you can see nowadays.

Emiciclo Garibaldi marks one of the entrances to the historic center of Sassari, and it’s simply an unmissable spot in the city.

Museo Nazionale Sanna

• What it is – Archaeology museum
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – Around 2 hours
• Cost – Small fee
• Local tip – Check the official website for opening days and times.

Founded in 1931 and originally just a private art collection owned by 19th-century Sardinian politician Giovanni Antonio Sanna, this is one of the best museums in Sardinia, as well as the main archaeological museum in Sassari.

The museum’s collections focus mainly on Sardinian prehistory and antiquity. The archaeological section includes finds from the Neolithic, Nuragic, Punic, and Roman periods, with artifacts from archaeological sites across the island. Highlights include Nuragic bronzetti, stone tools, pottery, and funerary objects that document early Sardinian civilizations.

After some renovations and the addition of more items, coming from both private collections and public excavations, the museum now has seven rooms. Exhibits are arranged chronologically, so that you can have a clear overview of Sardinia’s development over millennia.

Visiting is one of the best things to do in Sassari for every lover of Sardinian history and art.

Food tour

• What it is – Fun activity
• Where – Historic center
• Time needed – 3 hours
• Cost – Around €90
• Local tip – Write down the specialties you wish to try and ask the guide to make sure.

Italian food is very regional, and regional food in Italy gets even more local. Sassari has its very own specialties, which can be found occasionally in other places in Sardinia – but why not try them here?

These are some delicacies and dishes that are found in Sassari:

• Fainé Sassarese: traditional chickpea flatbread made from a simple batter of chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt, then baked in a hot oven until thin and slightly crisp on the edges. The texture is something between a pancake and a flatbread, soft inside with a lightly golden surface.
• Lumache (Ciogga): Snails cooked in different ways, you can try the ciogga minudda (snails with potatoes), and the ciogga grossa (with a spicy sauce with garlic and parsley).
• Favata: a rich soup made with fava beans, cabbage, sundried tomatoes, and wild anise.
• Mineshtra e fasgiori: beans soup.
• Giggioni: similar to malloreddus.

Good to know: you will find cioggia, favata, mineshtra e fasgiori and giggioni in most trattorie in the historic center.

Fainé is more of a snack that you can grab at takeaway pizza places, or even some traditional pizzerie. These are my favorite spots for Fainé in Sassari:

• Sassu Fainè alla Genovese – The most famous spot in town.
• Fainè da Benito – In the historic center, it’s one of the most traditional places.
• Fainè da Carlo – This spot first opened in 1955. It also serves pizza.

To get a proper taste of all local delicacies, one of the best things to do in Sassari is to join a guided tour. Tours will typically go to the market and include several tastings or have a full meal at the end.

This market tour of Sassari has a meal at the end, so it’s the perfect thing to do for a local experience. You will try local specialties such as the fainé (farinata di ceci).

Things To Do Near Sassari

If you have a car, it’s easy to explore Sassari’s surroundings. Here are my top recommendations.

Monte d’Accoddi Altar

• What it is – Archaological site
• Where – 20-minute drive north of Sassari
• Time needed – One hour
• Cost – Small fee, includes a guided tour
• Local tip – Closed on Mondays, check the official website for opening hours.

Monte d’Accoddi is located about 13 km (8 miles) from Porto Torres, along the old SS131, and a 20-minute drive north of Sassari. It’s an easy place to visit, as long as you have a car to get there, as there is no form of public transportation.

What I loved about Monte d’Accoddi when I visited wasn’t just its history and uniqueness, but also the idyllic countryside location.

This is a structure that you can only see here in Sardinia and nowhere else in Europe. It is considered quite a mysterious building by archaeologists. Its shape recalls a Mesopotamian ziggurat (or Ziqqurat), though it is not that. It likely was a sacred temple or an altar.

Historians date its building back to before the Nuragic era, to a period between 4500 and 3200 BC (the Bronze Age) and a culture known as the Ozieri Culture. The name of the site means “hill of the stones” – a reference to what it looked like before it was fully excavated.

After a series of excavations between the 1950s and the late 1960s, archeologists established that the site was built in various phases. There was a red temple (so called because of the red plaster on its walls and floor) that was covered by a subsequent one.

You will see it looks a bit like a pyramid with a 25-meter (82-feet) ramp, and two altars (one slightly bigger). Sacrifices to favor fertility took place here.

Best Day Trips From Sassari

You can go on many day trips from Sassari. My favorite places are all within a short driving distance – however, keep in mind that you’ll need a car for all of them.

Asinara Island

Since Sassari is located right in the middle of the Asinara Gulf, it would be a pity not to visit this unique island. It’s honestly such a special, unique place that you should consider staying overnight, but if you only have a day it’s still doable. I have been many times, including staying for a few days and on day trips from Sassari, and enjoy it every time.

You probably already know the symbol of Asinara, the white donkeys that made this island famous, but there is much more to see here.

People lived on the Asinara island since ancient times. However, in the late 18th century, all the inhabitants had to move to Stinino, in mainland Sardinia, as the island was to become a penal colony and a leper colony.

With time, a high-security prison was created too, to lock down several highly dangerous criminals. The island and sea conformation made escaping almost impossible.

If you wish to visit Asinara on a day trip from Sassari, you have two options: you can either drive to Porto Torres (a 20-minute drive from Sassari) and take one of the regular ferries that depart from there (there’s no need to book in advance), or you can drive to Stintino (a 35-minute drive from Sassari) and take the quick ferry from there.

Once in Asinara, you have the opportunity to hike, bike, and admire all the local wildlife. There are albino donkeys, boars, goats, and various species of birds. You can also simply sunbathe and swim in one of the magnificent beaches.

You may want to consider this guided tour that departs from Stintino. It includes the ferry from Stintino and a jeep tour of the island that stops at various beaches and viewpoints. It lasts 8 full hours.

There’s also the option of joining this catamaran tour that sails around the island. It departs from Stintino tourist harbor and includes lunch. It’s the best option if all you want to do is swim, snorkel, and bask in the sun.

For the most active travelers, I recommend renting an e-bike in Porto Torres, so that you have a chance of exploring the island a bit more independently. Make sure to grab a map once you get the bike!

Make sure to read my post, The Ultimate Guide To Asinara Island, to discover the unique history of the island, the many attractions, and to plan your visit.

La Pelosa Beach

Speaking of beaches, you can’t miss out on the Stintino area and its most famous beach, La Pelosa, one of northern Sardinia’s top beaches. Last time I was there, I could hardlyb believe its beauty.

Again, it is an easy day trip and what to do in Sassari in the summer – it will take you just 40 minutes by car to get there.

Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and sometimes even in the whole world, La Pelosa is a tropical, heaven-like kind of beach with crystal clear water and soft, pale sand. The water is very shallow, which makes it a perfect beach to visit for families with small children, who can safely play in the water.

At one end of the beach, there’s an Aragonese Watchtower that makes for wonderful photo opportunities – you can walk there from the shore, but it’s best to have rock shoes.

The beach is equipped with lots of kiosks and small restaurants for food and drinks, and you will also find beach clubs to rent sunbeds and umbrellas. However, keep in mind that this is a rather small beach. The local municipality has put a limit on the number of people who can access in a day. However, it can still get very crowded.

La Pelosa is one of the protected beaches of Sardinia, so you need to book your visit in advance. My post, A Quick Guide To La Pelosa, explains everything you need to know to plan a smooth visit. You should also read my post, A Short Guide To Stintino, for more information on beaches and things to do in the area.

Alghero

Alghero is a fairly straightforward drive from Sassari, just about 40 minutes along the freeway. I visited even last time I was in Sassari, on new year’s – my friend and I drove there from Sassari for the day.

Alghero is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sardinia, and a gorgeous small city. Most tourists would actually opt to stay in Alghero and visit Sassari for a day trip (while Sassari is a much larger city, Alghero has a better tourist infrastructure, with better hotels and restaurants).

We refer to Alghero as the “Sardinian Barcelona” because of the peculiar Catalan influence, which still permeates the city. Indeed, its inhabitants speak Catalan and celebrate religious rites that are almost identical to the ones held in Barcelona.

It’s a city to fall in love with, unique and incredibly charming. You can take a walk along the bastions – they are a great spot for sunset, as you can enjoy views of the promontory of Capo Caccia; or visit the nearby Neptune Caves either by boat or by descending the famous Escala del Cabirol. The views along the way are breathtaking.

Alghero has some lovely beaches, in case you are visiting in the summer months – Le Bombarde, Lazzaretto, and Mugoni are my favorite ones. For lovers of archaeology, Nuraghe Palmavera and Anghelu Ruju Necropolis (a domus de jana that’s been recently UNESCO-enlisted) are must-sees.

Finally, in case you want to taste some of the best Sardinian wines, consider visiting Sella e Mosca, one of the most renowned wineries in Sardinia.

My posts A Complete Guide To Alghero and The Best Alghero Itinerary will highlight the many things to do and places to visit in this lovely small city.

Castelsardo

If you want to visit a quaint small town, then heading to Castelsardo is one of the best things to do in Sassari. It’s a 40-minute drive northeast of Sassari.

Castelsardo was founded by the Genoese Doria family. It takes its name from the castle (castello) that overlooks it, the Castello dei Doria, one of the best-kept castles in Sardinia that now houses the Museum of Mediterranean Weaving – the Museo dell’Intreccio Mediterraneo. Here you can learn more about the art of straw basket making that is typical of this area.

Castelsardo is especially famous for the rites of the Holy Week. The village itself is pleasant to explore, and you can either walk or go on a tuk-tuk tour to explore the main landmarks and take in the views.

The co-Cathedral of Castelsardo is particularly beautiful, and it’s located on a small hill overlooking the sea, making it incredibly scenic.

The rest of the small town is a series of meandering, narrow streets and colorful buildings that make it particularly photogenic and a pleasant place for a walk.

My post, A Short Guide To Castelsardo, shares more information about this lovely town.

Basilica di Saccargia

If you’re looking for some attractions closer to Sassari, consider going to the Basilica di Saccargia church – it’s a quick 15-minute drive, and it’s a very rewarding place to visit. I still remember the first time I saw it, as I was driving along a detour on my way to Sassari. It was so impressive that I had to stop to visit.

Located just outside the nearby Codrongianos village, Saccargia Basilica was first completed in 1116, on the pre-existing ruins of a monastery, thanks to the financial support of Costantino I di Torres.

Costantino I decided to build a church after visiting another monastery. There, he had prayed to the Virgin Mary for a son. His wish granted, so he decided to repay the monks by gifting them a new church and a place to live and pray.

The church is in a Romanesque-Pisan style. It is one of the most stunning churches on the island. Its silhouette, even from afar, is indeed a breathtaking sight. As a bonus, it is beautifully immersed in the countryside.

Villa Piercy

A bit more distant from Sassari (a-50 minute drive) Villa Piercy in Bolotana is well worth the drive, and truly a one-of-a-kind place in Sardinia. Last time I was there, in January, the entire area was completely quiet and the atmosphere was almost surreal.

The villa was built at the end of the 19th century by the British nobleman Benjamin Piercy. Back then, he was supervising the construction works of Sardinia’s railroad. This was his family’s private mansion. He often hosted parties to which he invited the most influential people of the time.

The manor has a wide and impressive garden in which you can admire a lot of tropical plants. It is beautifully immersed in the forest. Not far from it, you will also find the beautiful Burgos forest (one of Sardinia’s most impressive natural parks), which is pleasant to explore in any season. There’s also the small village of Burgos, home of a hilltop castle and of the Castle Museum.

Make sure to read my post, A Guide To Visiting Villa Piercy, for more guidance on how to visit this unique estate.

Easy Sassari Itinerary

For ease, I have created two easy-to-follow itineraries that will help you explore Sassari. They are based on how long you plan to stay in the city.

Half-day Sassari itinerary (3–4 hours)

Start: Piazza d’Italia

• Begin in Sassari’s main square and walk around the surrounding historic buildings.
• Duomo di San Nicola – 10 minutes away. Visit the cathedral and step inside for a quick look at the interior.
• Walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, one of the main historic streets lined with shops and cafés.
• Detour to see Santa Maria di Betlem, the church linked to the Candelieri tradition.
• Fontana di Rosello – End downhill at Sassari’s most iconic monument.

You could also stop for fainé before heading back.

Full-day Sassari itinerary (8 hours)

Morning: Historic center loop

• Start at Piazza d’Italia
• Visit San Nicola Cathedral
• Walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele
• Stop at Santa Maria di Betlem
• Continue to Fontana di Rosello

Lunch – Trattoria da Gian Luca is a 15-minute walk from the Fontana di Rosello and offers local specialties.

Afternoon: Culture and views

• Visit Museo Nazionale Sanna (1–2 hours)
• Walk through the Giardini Pubblici next door
• Explore local shops and cafés

Have extra time? Drive to Monte d’Accoddi if you want something unique nearby.

Where To Stay In Sassari

To be honest, I find the choice of hotels and good places to stay in Sassari to be a bit limited. For the longest time, since my sister lived there, I never needed to find a place to stay, as I’d stay at her place. She moved back to Cagliari in 2021, but since I visit often, I have tried a bunch of places, and these are my favorite ones:

• Hotel Carlo Felice – Outside the city center, which is still easy to reach by bus, this is my favorite hotel in town. The rooms are modern, comfortable, and spotless, the staff is nice, and the breakfast buffet is excellent. There’s abundant parking for guests in case you have a car.
• Les Suite Royales – Steps away from Piazza d’Italia, this family-run guest house is located in a historic building and features gorgeous rooms with classic furnishings.
• Locanda Carra Manna – In Sassari’s historic center, this small bed and breakfast has spacious, modern rooms, and it is perfect for couples. You will be close to the train station, in case you are arriving in Sassari by train.

Best Restaurants In Sassari

You won’t have trouble finding excellent food in Sassari. Together with my sister, I have tried a bunch of places, and these are my favorite ones:

• Re | Mi – This is one of the best gourmet pizza places in Sardinia. It’s outside the center of Sassari, a short walk from Hotel Carlo Felice. You will find a selection of appetizers to share, delicious pizzas, burgers, and decadent desserts.
• Il Giamaranto – You wouldn’t think much of this restaurant located in an unassuming building just outside the historic center of Sassari, but the food is delicious, and the service is spot on.
• Mesadoria – In the historic center of Sassari, this is one of the very few Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants in Sassari. They focus on contemporary Italian cuisine and use local ingredients.

How To Get To Sassari

Sassari is served by two main airports in northern Sardinia. The closest is Alghero Fertilia Airport (AHO). The other main gateway is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) on the northeast coast.

Here’s a quick overview of the distances and of how to get there.

• Closest airport: Alghero Fertilia (AHO)
• Distance: ~30 km / 19 miles
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Best option: car or direct bus

Good to know: Alghero Fertilia is the quickest and most convenient gateway.

• Alternative airport: Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB)
• Distance: ~100 km / 62 miles
• Driving time: about 1–1.5 hours
• Best option: car via SS729 Sassari–Olbia

Good to know: Olbia offers more flight options year-round.

From Alghero to Sassari

Distance: 35 km / 22 miles

By car

• Time: 35–40 minutes
• Route: SS291 var della Nurra
• Best for flexibility

My go-to company for car rental is Discover Cars. It’s what I use wherever I travel in the world. Make sure to also read my tips on renting a car in Alghero.

By train (ARST)

• Time: 30–35 minutes
• Direct regional line
• Stations in both city centers

Check out my Guide on How To Travel By Train In Sardinia for tips on using the train.

By bus (ARST)

• Time: 45–60 minutes
• More frequent departures than the train
• Stops near the central areas in both cities
• Timetable available on the official ARST website

By train from elsewhere in Sardinia

• Main hub: Sassari railway station
• Direct regional connections with:
  • Porto Torres (Trenitalia)
  • Alghero (ARST rail)
  • Olbia (Trenitalia)
  • Cagliari (Trenitalia)

Driving times from other places in Sardinia

• Stintino (1 hour)
• Castelsardo (45–50 min)
• Olbia (1–1.5 hours)
• Cagliari (2 hours)

Local tip: A car is helpful if you plan day trips beyond the historic center.

How To Move Around Sassari

Getting around Sassari is straightforward. The historic center is compact and best explored on foot, with the main sights within walking distance of Piazza d’Italia and the cathedral.

For longer distances, public transport works well. Local buses are operated by ATP Sassari and connect residential areas, the train station, and nearby districts. Taxis are available but not widely used for short trips.

If you plan to visit beaches or towns outside the city, you should rent a car.

Best Time To Visit Sassari

The best time to visit Sassari is during one of its traditional festivals, when the city feels most lively. The highlights are the Cavalcata Sarda in May and the Faradda dei Candelieri on August 14. If you visit at that time, make sure to book your stay well in advance.

Sassari is also particularly charming around Christmas. The historic center is decorated with beautiful lights and markets, and the cool winter weather makes walking pleasant.

Outside these periods, spring and early autumn offer mild temperatures.

In terms of crowds, the city is honestly never crowded with tourists outside of the festival season, so you won’t have to worry about that. It is still very much a local place.

FAQs on Sassari

Final Considerations

If you happen to be in Northern Sardinia, definitely consider spending a day or two in Sassari. The city offers a different side of Sardinia, shaped more by history and traditions than coastal scenery, and since it’s not touristy at all, it’s actually as authentic as it gets.

The city works well as a stop between Alghero, Stintino, and the inland towns, especially if you want to balance beaches with culture.

All in all, it’s an interesting place to visit that too many tourists still ignore, and it’s a real pity. Try to go before the crowds discover it.