Sassari
Sardinia's second city, with a proud university tradition and the magnificent Cavalcata festival.
About Sassari
Sassari is Sardinia's intellectual capital, home to one of Italy's oldest universities (founded 1562) and a proud, independent-minded city with a distinct identity from Cagliari. The centro storico is a fascinating maze of narrow streets with Spanish-influenced architecture—Sassari was under Aragonese rule for centuries—centred on the ornate baroque Cathedral of San Nicola and the Fonte Rosello, a beautiful late-Renaissance fountain. The city's greatest spectacle is the Cavalcata Sarda, held every May: a massive celebration of Sardinian identity with traditional costumes, horseback acrobatics, and folk music from across the island. The surrounding Romangia countryside produces excellent Cannonau wine and olive oil.
Best Time to Visit
May for the Cavalcata Sarda festival. April to October for pleasant weather. The Ferragosto candle procession (Candelieri) in August is another major tradition.
Local Tips
- See the Cavalcata Sarda.
This May festival brings together traditional costumes, music, and horsemanship from every corner of Sardinia. A local will explain the regional differences in dress and dance and secure the best parade viewing spot.
- Explore the old town's Spanish heritage.
Sassari's centro storico reveals centuries of Aragonese influence in its architecture, food, and dialect. A local can trace the Spanish layers through churches, palazzi, and the local cuisine's distinct flavours.
- Taste faine and Sassarese cuisine.
Sassari has its own cuisine distinct from the rest of Sardinia. Faine (chickpea flatbread, from the Genoese farinata) is the essential street food. A local knows the best friggitorie and the trattorias serving zimino and favata.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders . The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
