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.
Silvia
Ravenna, Ferrara +8
I’m an Italian travel consultant, licensed tour guide, and passionate traveler with over 20 years of experience helping visitors discover the real Italy. I was born and raised in Ravenna, the extraordinary city of mosaics, where I work as a licensed tour guide. My background in Art at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ravenna deepened my love for mosaics and history, and I enjoy sharing this passion with travelers who want to experience Italy beyond the surface. I’m also a certified environmental hiking guide and tour leader, and I love combining culture, nature, and authentic local life. When I travel, or design experiences for others, I’m always looking for inspiring museums, beautiful landscapes, great food, and memorable wines. In recent years I’ve also started hosting cooking classes in my home, where guests learn traditional Italian recipes and enjoy genuine Italian hospitality. While Ravenna and Emilia-Romagna are my home base, I also offer travel expertise for Sardinia, especially the province of Oristano, an area I know and love for its wild coastline, traditions, and authentic culture.
Walter
Cagliari, Olbia +3
Hi! My name is Walter, I live in Cagliari, the capital of beautiful Sardinia. My family has Sardinian roots going back many generations, and like many locals, I feel deeply connected to my homeland. As a native Sardinian, I know the island inside and out — its places, traditions, customs, food, wine, and everyday way of life. Over the past 20 years, more visitors have discovered the historical, architectural, and natural beauty of Cagliari, and I’d be happy to help you experience it in an authentic and complete way. I have a degree in Political Science and International Relations, specialising in Social Innovation and Communication, and I’ve worked as a tour leader in Cagliari for the past four years. Before that, I spent 15 years in retail promoting Sardinia’s excellent food and wine, so I can also guide you through the best traditional dishes and drinks. I’m an eclectic person who loves travel, sport, good food, nature, and connecting with people. Contact me if you’d like help planning your trip to Sardinia — I’d be happy to share my local knowledge with you.