Following Sardinia’s administrative reorganization in 2016 and finalized in 2021, the Province of Sassari changed significantly. The former territory was divided: the northern part became the Province of Gallura, Northeast Sardinia, while Sassari retained its historic heart, including the city of Sassari itself, parts of Logudoro, Nurra, and the coast stretching west and north.
Today, the new Province of Sassari represents a blend of Sardinia’s deepest traditions, spectacular nature, and a growing spirit of modernity, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from tourist crowds.
The story of Sassari is deeply rooted in Sardinian history:
Prehistoric Era: The island was already inhabited in Neolithic times, with impressive Nuragic structures like Monte d’Accoddi, a unique step, pyramid (ca. 4,000–3,000 BC) with mysterious religious purposes.
Phoenicians and Carthaginians: Coastal areas saw trading colonies, remnants of which are visible at sites like Porto Torres.
Roman Era: Sassari’s strategic position connected it to Rome. Ruins of roads, bridges, and thermal baths remain across the countryside.
Medieval Period: Sassari city emerged as a commune in the 13th century, grew wealthy under Pisan and Genoese influences, and later fell under Aragonese (Spanish) control, shaping its architecture and traditions.
Modern Times: Today, Sassari blends its proud historical past with Sardinia’s push toward autonomy, sustainability, and cultural revival.
At the heart of the province is Sassari, Sardinia’s second, largest city, and an underrated gem:
Piazza d’Italia: One of Italy’s largest and most elegant squares, a symbol of Sardinian unity and modern ambition.
Duomo di San Nicola: A majestic cathedral blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
Fontana di Rosello: A beautiful 17th, century fountain, a symbol of Sassari’s historic prosperity.
Museums: The Museo Nazionale Sanna houses Sardinia’s most important archaeological collections, from Nuragic bronzes to Roman artifacts.
Strolling through Sassari’s narrow alleys, visitors encounter atmospheric palaces, lively cafes, hidden churches, and vibrant street markets, a city that feels lived, in, proud, and distinctly Sardinian.
Sassari fiercely preserves its traditions:
Faradda di li Candareri (Descent of the Candelieri): Every August, enormous symbolic “candlesticks” are carried through the streets to fulfill an ancient vow to the Virgin Mary. This UNESCO, recognized event pulses with music, dance, and devotion.
Cavalcata Sarda: Every May, one of Sardinia’s grandest festivals features thousands parading in traditional costumes, accompanied by folk songs and horseback displays.
Art and Crafts: Traditional weaving, wood carving, and coral jewelry (especially in Alghero) continue to thrive, linking today’s artisans to ancient techniques.
The province is extraordinarily diverse in nature:
La Pelosa Beach (Stintino): Famous for its surreal turquoise waters and powdery white sand. Despite its popularity, strict visitor limits protect this fragile paradise.
Platamona Beach: A long stretch of golden sand north of Sassari city, ideal for family, friendly swimming.
Porto Torres Coast: Rocky coves and secret beaches surround this ancient Roman town, offering a more rustic seaside experience.
Asinara National Park: Once a prison island, now a wilderness sanctuary where you can spot wild albino donkeys, hike pristine trails, and snorkel in untouched waters.
Capo Caccia and Neptune’s Grotto: Dramatic cliffs and caves overlooking the sea, with breathtaking panoramic trails and a famous limestone cave complex accessible by boat or foot.
Nurra and Logudoro: Vast, empty landscapes of rolling hills, olive groves, sheep pastures, and abandoned medieval churches. Ideal for hiking, photography, and cultural immersion.
Lake Baratz: Sardinia’s only natural freshwater lake, surrounded by forests and a peaceful haven for birdwatching and kayaking.
Beyond Sassari city, the province is dotted with charming historic towns:
Castelsardo: A fortified medieval town rising above the sea, crowned by the Doria Castle and offering labyrinthine alleys, colorful houses, and stunning coastal views.
Porto Torres: A historic Roman town with ancient basilicas, mosaics, and an important ferry link to mainland Italy.
Sorso and Sennori: Traditional agricultural villages known for olive oil, wine, and beautiful countryside settings.
Ploaghe and Osilo: High hilltop towns offering traditional Sardinian life, ancient churches, and sweeping views.
Food in Sassari province reflects its agricultural roots and seafaring traditions:
Fainè: A chickpea flour pancake, introduced by Genoese sailors and now a local specialty.
Porceddu: Slow, roasted suckling pig, seasoned with myrtle and herbs, a Sardinian icon.
Casu Marzu: The infamous "rotten cheese," a strong, flavored local delicacy for the adventurous.
Seafood Dishes: Fresh lobster, bottarga (cured fish roe), and octopus salad are staples along the coast.
Wine: Sassari’s vineyards produce robust reds like Cannonau and elegant whites like Vermentino.
Food festivals ("sagre") are common, where travelers can taste local products straight from farmers and producers.
How to Reach Sassari: Fly into Alghero, Fertilia Airport, just 25 minutes from Sassari city, or ferry into Porto Torres from Genoa or Marseille.
Getting Around: A car is essential to explore the countryside and hidden beaches.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal, offering warm weather, fewer crowds, and vivid natural colors.
Where to Stay: Choose between historic city hotels in Sassari, agriturismi (farm stays) in the countryside, or seaside resorts near Stintino and Castelsardo.
The Province of Sassari is not just a place, it’s a living story of Sardinia’s ancient soul and vibrant present. Whether you're wandering through medieval alleys, lounging on a beach that feels like a dream, hiking through wilderness sanctuaries, or savoring a rustic meal under olive trees, Sassari offers a Sardinia that is authentic, profound, and unforgettable.
If you seek the real heart of Sardinia, timeless, beautiful, and proud, you will find it here in Sassari.
More Details
| High | Low | Sun | Rain | |
| Jan | 9 | 2 | 3 | 55 |
| Feb | 11 | 3 | 4 | 53 |
| Mar | 13 | 4 | 5 | 63 |
| Apr | 17 | 7 | 6 | 55 |
| May | 21 | 11 | 8 | 35 |
| Jun | 25 | 15 | 9 | 44 |
| Jul | 28 | 17 | 10 | 34 |
| Aug | 28 | 17 | 9 | 54 |
| Sep | 25 | 14 | 7 | 61 |
| Oct | 20 | 11 | 6 | 74 |
| Nov | 15 | 8 | 4 | 71 |
| Dec | 12 | 3 | 3 | 77 |
| Table Key: High - Average monthly high temperatures Low - Average monthly low temperatures Sun - Average hours of sunshine per day Rain - Average monthly rainfall in mm |
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