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HomeRoad TripsEuropeSouth EuropeItalyNorthwestern Sardinia
sardinia, sardegna, isle, italy, italia, mountains, trees, river,  mediterranean, europe, landscape | Pikist

Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip

Sassari - Castelsardo - Porto Torres - Alghero - Bosa

Expect on your itinerary

Security Security
Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Historical sites Historical sites
Beach Beach
Wildlife Wildlife
Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages5 km353 h/stage1.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip in Italy?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 135EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 198EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 392EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 527EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 243EUR drive & more 63EUR sleep & more 319EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 598EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 841EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 324EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 517EUR eat & more 288EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 893EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,217EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 675EUR drive & more 100EUR sleep & more 165EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 409EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,084EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip Itinerary

The Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip is a 265km journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Italy. Starting in Sassari, the route takes you to Castelsardo, Alghero and Bosa, each offering its own unique experiences. Castelsardo, with its medieval castle and charming harbor, is a must-see. Alghero is a picturesque coastal town with plenty of culture, and Bosa is a historic town with narrow streets and a beautiful river. The best time to take this road trip is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and the countryside is lush and green. You’ll experience winding roads, partially narrow roads, and some of the best views in Italy. The overall road conditions are good, and the trip can be managed on a moderate budget. This road trip is suitable for every driver, and promises to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience.
number of days 3 number of days
route length 353 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Sassari

Distance 353 km Driving time 7.9 h Pace: slow 81.3 kWh Airports AHO , OLB
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Sassari is a charming city located in the northwest coastal region of Sardinia, Italy. It is the ideal starting point for the Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip and provides a great base for exploring the region's stunning natural beauty. The city of Sassari is steeped in history, and its narrow cobbled streets are lined with impressive historical buildings. The Cathedral of San Nicola, the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate and the Palazzo Ducale are all worth visiting. The local museum, Museo di Sassari, is also a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the area. Outdoors enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunity to explore the nearby beaches, mountain trails, and idyllic villages. The nearby coastal town of Alghero is well known for its beautiful beaches and seafood restaurants. The Parco Nazionale del Limbara is also a popular spot for hiking and wildlife watching. The closest international airport to Sassari is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB). There are car rentals available at the airport, making it easy for travelers to start their Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience or a chance to explore the natural beauty of Sardinia, Sassari is sure to please.

1 Sassari - Castelsardo

Distance 70 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: slow 16.1 kWh View map Itinerary
not recommended for caravans dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on a road trip from Sassari to Castelsardo and explore the beautiful landscapes of northern Sardinia! This 73 km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, so you can make the most of your trip by taking in the sights and sounds of the region. As you drive, you will be surrounded by winding roads and narrow sections, but the views of the lush countryside will make it all worth it. On your way to Castelsardo, make sure to visit the historical sites of the Nuraghe di Palmavera and the Nuraghe Santu Antine. These archaeological ruins are a testament to the region’s ancient history and provide a unique glimpse into the past. You can also take in the stunning views of the coastline as you drive along the scenic road. Finally, you will arrive in Castelsardo, a beautiful city with a long history. Here, you can explore the medieval castle, the Cathedral of San Antonio Abate, and the old harbor. You can also take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

2 Castelsardo - Porto Torres

Distance 34 km Driving time 0.7 h Pace: modest 8.9 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Castelsardo, Italy to Porto Torres, a journey of 33 km that will take less than an hour. As you drive, you will be surrounded by stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and you will even have the chance to drive through narrow sections of the road. Make sure to stay alert and enjoy the scenery! Along the way, you will have the chance to visit the beautiful city of Castelsardo, where you can explore the historic old town and its many churches, as well as the local markets. You will also be able to visit the nearby beaches and the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tergu. Porto Torres is home to many attractions, including the archaeological site of Sant'Antioco, the Basilica of San Gavino, and the Nuraghe Arrubiu. All of these places are sure to provide a great experience and will make your trip even more memorable. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

3 Porto Torres - Alghero

Distance 46 km Driving time 0.7 h Pace: fast 13.9 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing 36km journey from Porto Torres to Alghero! This drive will take you less than one hour, and you'll get to explore some of Italy's most stunning and interesting sites. Begin your journey in Porto Torres, a town with a rich history and plenty of places to explore. Visit the San Gavino Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, or the Tower of Porto Torres, a 16th-century tower that was once a defensive structure. Continue your drive to Alghero, a city with a unique Catalan-style architecture. Take a walk along the city walls and explore the beautiful churches, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria. Don't forget to visit the Palazzo d'Albis, a beautiful palace built in the 16th century. Along the way, you'll find plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the Italian countryside. Keep your eyes open for historical sites and scenic roads, and make sure to take plenty of pictures! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

4 Alghero - Bosa

Distance 44 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: modest 11.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Start your road trip in Alghero, the beautiful coastal town in Italy! A 44km drive along the scenic route will take you to the charming town of Bosa. Along the way, marvel at the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the winding roads that take you through the countryside. Be sure to keep an eye out for the historical sites and monuments that you'll pass, such as the Nuraghe Palmavera, which is one of the most important archaeological sites in the area. You'll also get to enjoy the unique landscape of the Alghero countryside, with its rolling hills and lush vegetation. Once you arrive in Bosa, you'll be able to explore the town's cobblestone streets and its many churches, palaces, and fortresses. Don't forget to take a stroll along the river and enjoy the beautiful views of the city. As you drive, be sure to take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of the area. Remember to keep an eye out for the more winding sections of the road. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

5 Bosa - Sassari

Distance 159 km Driving time 3.4 h Pace: modest 41.2 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station not recommended for caravans dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Bosa to Sassari! This 80 km journey will take you through some of the most stunning and historic sites of Italy. Be prepared for some steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections as you make your way to your destination. Along the way, make sure to take in the sights of the beautiful countryside, and take a few moments to appreciate the historical sites. Don't forget to stop in Bosa to visit the Castle of Malaspina and the Church of Santa Maria, and in Sassari to explore the Cathedral of San Nicola and the National Archaeological Museum. With fewer than two hours of driving time, this is a great stage of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, hop in the car and get ready for a wonderful journey from Bosa to Sassari!

  Sassari

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Sassari is a city in the northwest of Sardinia, Italy that provides the perfect ending to the Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip. The city is known for its lively atmosphere and the beautiful architecture, ranging from the medieval churches to the grand palace. The most popular tourist attractions include the Palazzo Ducale, a historic palace built in the 16th century, and the Cathedral of St. Nicholas. The Palazzo Ducale houses a number of art galleries and is a great place to explore the history of Sassari. The Cathedral of St. Nicholas is an impressive example of Italian Gothic architecture, and it is well worth a visit. For the nature lovers, there are plenty of activities to do in Sassari. The city is surrounded by the beautiful hills of the Logudoro Mountains, and the beaches of the Costa Verde are only a short drive away. There are also several parks and trails in the city, offering a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The closest international airport to Sassari is Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO), which is located about 40 kilometers from the city center. From here, travelers can easily make the journey to Sassari by car. Sassari is the perfect way to end a road trip around Northwestern Sardinia. With its rich history, lively atmosphere, and beautiful scenery, it is a great destination for both sightseeing and relaxation.

Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 265km journey through Northwestern Sardinia, Italy, where the pristine Mediterranean coastline meets timeless historical sites. Starting from Sassari, this Road Trip will take you through the enchanting towns of Castelsardo, Alghero, and Bosa, each offering a unique glimpse into the island's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Castelsardo: Explore the majestic Doria Castle that dates back to the 12th century, perched high above a charming harbor. Wander through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets and discover traditional basket weaving, a local artisan craft.
  • Alghero: Immerse yourself in a blend of Catalan and Italian culture in this fortified town. Visit the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria and enjoy the panoramic vistas from the ancient walls overlooking the Riviera del Corallo.
  • Bosa: Marvel at the colorful facades of the medieval houses in this riverside town. Explore the 12th-century Malaspina Castle, and take a leisurely stroll along the Temo River, the only navigable river in Sardinia.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for this Road Trip is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and the natural landscape is at its most vibrant. These seasons also offer the benefit of fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should be prepared for some winding and narrow stretches of Road, particularly along the coastal cliffs. However, the Roads are well-maintained, and the stunning views more than compensate for the challenging drives.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • This 265km route can be comfortably completed in a few days, allowing for leisurely exploration and frequent stops to soak in the views.
  • The Trip is accessible to drivers of varying experience, with clear signage and plenty of spots to rest and enjoy local cuisine.
  • Sardinia's Northwestern coast is dotted with prehistoric Nuragic complexes, mysterious megalithic structures unique to the island, adding an element of ancient history to your adventure.
  • The drive showcases diverse landscapes, from the azure waters of the Mediterranean to rolling hills covered in macchia, the aromatic Mediterranean shrubland.

A good choice for:

The Northwestern Sardinia Road Trip is more than just a Scenic Drive; it's a journey through the heart of Sardinian culture, history, and natural splendor. Whether you're a lover of the sea, a history buff, or simply in search of Italy's less-trodden paths, this Road Trip promises a treasure trove of experiences that will linger in your memory long after you've returned home.

Facts for safer driving in Italy

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 90 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 130 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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