Sassari is the second-largest city in Sardinia with a population of 122,000; it is also one of the oldest settlements in the city and has a great deal of history and important cultural establishments.
Located in the northwest region of Sardinia, this city is actually the fifth largest municipality in Italy and has a large economy based on tourism and the services industry. Although findings have dated settlements in Sassari to the Neolithic Age, the main settling of the city occurred during the Middle Ages. Throughout this time period, the ruling of the city changed hand numerous times as conflicts raged throughout Sardinia. As time progressed, Sassari developed and grew in size and now stands as the main city in the northern region of the island.
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1. Piazza d’Italia
In the center of the historic old town is the marvelous Piazza d’Italia – this square is one of the main public spaces in Sassari and has played an important role in the history of the city since its creation.
The architecture surrounding this square is very beautiful and several important buildings can be found here, including the Palazzo della Provincia and the Palazzo Giordano. In the center of the square is a large monument surrounded by palm trees, and you can also find a fantastic range of shops, restaurants, and cafes here too.
The Piazza d’Italia is a great starting point from which to explore Sassari, and it is also in close proximity to the Piazza Castello and the Giardini Pubblici.
2. Porto Ferro Beach
If you are looking for a secluded coastal retreat then look no further than the sublime Porto Ferro Beach. Located approximately 30 minutes to the west of Sassari, this quiet beach is a true paradise.
Beautiful soft and golden sands stretch for around 500m in a horseshoe and the gentle Mediterranean waters lap the beach. Furthermore, the coastline features a series of dramatic rocky cliff faces and shallow rock pools that are perfect to explore at low-tide.
The idyllic scenery, the beautiful Sardinia weather, and the beautiful beach make Porto Ferro a must-see place on a trip to Sassari.
3. Cattedrale di San Nicola
As the main church in Sassari, the Cathedral of Saint Nicolas holds an important place in the history of the city and is a truly gorgeous building. The façade of this church has a Roman style, but the structure also has other design elements including Gothic and Baroque.
Originally constructed in the 12th century, the cathedral was not truly finished until the 18th century, hence the wide range of architectural styles.
Aside from the impressive exterior, the interior of the church features some beautiful stained glass windows, several ornately decorated chapels, and a host of traditional religious iconography.
4. Visit Asinara National Park
Asinara is the third largest island in Sardinia and is located on the northern coast. Covering an area of 746km, this island has historically served as a prison camp but is now a protected area and a national park.
The rugged and rocky landscape of Asinara is perfect to explore and the island features a myriad of hiking trails to test your endurance and abilities. Aside from the hiking opportunities, Asinara is also home to some stunning beaches that hug the rugged coastline and the crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Don’t forget to look out for the endemic Albino Donkey or the various species of birds that frequent the region.
5. Chiesa di Santa Maria di Betlem
Located on the western outskirts of the old town center, the Church of Santa Maria di Betlem is another fine establishment that features a large ornate basilica dome and a Neoclassical design that was restored in the 18th century.
The front façade of this church features a typical large circular stained glass window and an ornate wooden door. Inside the church, there is a series of small decorative chapels dedicated to the Virgin Mary and a beautifully ornate golden altarpiece that dominates the main aisle.
6. Visit the historic town of Alghero
Sardinia has a plethora of historic coastal towns and one of the most famous is Alghero – this charming town is located 30 minutes to the west of Sassari and offers a fantastic location for a day trip.
Nestled on the coast of this town is the historic old center that has an array of narrow cobbled streets and the remnants of the defensive fortifications. Some circular towers are still in perfect condition, as are some fortified fortresses.
Walking along the promenade you can admire this stunning 16th-century network of defenses and even climb some of the towers to view Alghero from up high.
7. Basilica di Saccargia
If you go to the southeast of Sassari along E25 and go to SS729, you will end up stumbling upon the amazing Basilica di Saccargia. This wonderful church is literally located in the middle of nowhere and was abandoned during the 16th century.
Despite being abandoned, it remains in fantastic condition and is considered a true marvel of Romanesque architecture. Created entirely out of local stone, the church and bell tower feature a striped design and an ornate portico with black and white arches.
The interior of the church is just as decorative and features the main altar that is covered in a colorful fresco depicting the twelve apostles. Although this church is on the road, this is a place not to be missed on any trip to Sassari.
8. Lampianu Beach and coastline
Another hidden gem, the town, and the coastline of Lampianu offer some sublime landscapes to delve into. Lampianu's charming village can be found on the west coast of Sardinia and is located 30 minutes from Sassari.
Like Porto Ferro Beach, Lampianu offers a retreat from the crowd and is a great place to relax in the sun. Several small beaches and covers line this region of the coast with the most popular being the Spiaggia di Rena Majori which is just 5 minutes to the north of Lampianu.
Taking a day trip here will provide an abundance of possibilities – maybe you can simply sunbathe on the beaches, or maybe you will hike through the coastal trails and explore the hidden caves and coves?
9. Explore Capo Caccia
The northwestern coast of Sardinia is simply amazing and it has a range of golden beaches and fantastic cliff formations that are waiting to be explored. One particular part of this coastline is the Capo Caccia and the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Conte.
Right at the edge of the coast is a large promontory called Capo Caccia. This impressive cliff formation offers sweeping views of the Rada di Alghero bay and has a number of roads and trails to explore.
Furthermore, it is also known for its series of coastal caves and grottos such as the amazing Neptune’s Grotto.
10. Giardini Pubblici
Sassari has a plethora of stunning buildings, but it also has a selection of beautiful public parks; the Giardini Pubblici is the largest and the most popular of these open spaces. You can find this delightful park in the town center, only a 5-10 minute walk from the Piazza d’Italia.
In the center of the park is a circular pond and fountain, surrounded by some gorgeous exotic trees that provide shade. Furthermore, there is a series of footpaths that wind through the grounds and plenty of benches and lawns to relax on.
The Giardini Pubblici offers respite from a busy day of sight-seeing and is the perfect place to escape the city for a while.
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