Bosa
Bosa
⭐ Ranked #38 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Quiet and unassuming as the seaside town of Bosa is, it delivers a knock-out punch as soon as you gaze upon its incredible nest of brightly-coloured buildings.
Situated in the Province of Oristano in Sardinia, Bosa lies on the banks of the River Temo, a few kilometres inland of its beach resort called Marina di Bosa. The town can boast a beautiful Baroque cathedral as well as a 12th century castle, loftily perched in a commanding position. |
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What People Ask About Bosa
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Overview
Overview
Waterside dining
Cross Bosa's main bridge, the Ponte Vecchio ("old bridge" - there are numerous bridges in Italy that carry that name but not to be confused with the uber-famous one in Florence), and you arrive on the northern banks of the River Temo. To the left and right you'll find some lovely places to eat by the water, but carry on ahead at this stage to visit the Cattedrale dell'Immacolata. The mainly Baroque cathedral was built in the 15th century; it has a Rococo facade and a beautiful dome of multi-coloured majolica tiles.
Turn left out of the castle along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II for a few minutes and you'll eventually reach Piazza Costituzione at the heart of the centro storico (the historic centre). This is the buzziest square in the old town with its fountain and elegant buildings surrounding the restaurants with their al-fresco dining options.
Turn left out of the castle along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II for a few minutes and you'll eventually reach Piazza Costituzione at the heart of the centro storico (the historic centre). This is the buzziest square in the old town with its fountain and elegant buildings surrounding the restaurants with their al-fresco dining options.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Up to the castle
After a snack, coffee or lunch, depending what time of day it is, you can make your way into the heart of Bosa and gradually work your way up to the castle, Castello Malaspina which offers the best possible vantage point over the town.
Some stamina is required as it's steep in places but there's a good chance you won't notice any fatigue as you're too busy enjoying the surroundings. The houses are painted in a variety of colours and as they're so tightly-packed together, you'll find plenty of shady spots and some of the town's best restaurants away from the hotter, busier areas down below.
I always recommend renting a car to get the very best out of Sardinia but Bosa is a place that can easily be visited by public transport. From the town centre you can catch a bus to the bustling town of Alghero, a journey time of just over an hour.
Some stamina is required as it's steep in places but there's a good chance you won't notice any fatigue as you're too busy enjoying the surroundings. The houses are painted in a variety of colours and as they're so tightly-packed together, you'll find plenty of shady spots and some of the town's best restaurants away from the hotter, busier areas down below.
I always recommend renting a car to get the very best out of Sardinia but Bosa is a place that can easily be visited by public transport. From the town centre you can catch a bus to the bustling town of Alghero, a journey time of just over an hour.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Bosa
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Tra Fiume e Mare (Between River and Sea)
Listing headline: Tra Fiume e Mare (Between River and Sea)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel Isola Rossa Located near the historic centre of Bosa, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding hills and the river, a restaurant serving traditional Sardinian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the excellent service, and the proximity to Bosa’s main attractions, including the Bosa Castle and the picturesque old town. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Locanda degli Artisti Situated just outside the town centre, this cosy bed and breakfast features modern rooms with rustic touches, a beautiful garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Bosa’s medieval streets and local attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Al Gabbiano Set near the coast, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a restaurant serving local dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the friendly service, and the short walk to Bosa’s beach and nearby historical sites. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Su Birde Located a short drive from Bosa, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the surrounding countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the tranquil rural setting, the authentic Sardinian experience, and the short drive to both Bosa’s cultural sites and the coast. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Sa Pischedda Set just outside the town centre, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with scenic views, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality from the hosts, the quiet environment, and the easy access to Bosa’s historical centre and nearby beaches. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Sa Nassa: Located along the Temo River, Sa Nassa specializes in traditional Sardinian seafood dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes options such as spaghetti with clams, grilled fish, and risotto with seafood. The scenic setting and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for a relaxed yet authentic meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Locanda di Corte: Situated in the heart of Bosa’s historic centre, Locanda di Corte offers a refined take on Sardinian cuisine. Known for its creative dishes like risotto with saffron and seafood, and tender lamb with rosemary, the restaurant provides a unique dining experience. The intimate setting and attentive service create a memorable atmosphere. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Al Gambero Rosso: Located near the marina, Al Gambero Rosso is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Sardinian dishes. The menu includes local specialties like fregola (Sardinian pasta), grilled fish, and seafood pasta. The friendly service and relaxed setting make it a perfect spot for a casual meal by the water. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Borgo S. Ignazio: A blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavours, Ristorante Borgo S. Ignazio offers a variety of dishes using fresh, local ingredients. The menu includes pastas, roasted meats, and fresh vegetables, all prepared with a modern twist. The cozy, intimate setting and excellent wine list make it ideal for a special occasion. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Old Bridge Restaurant: Known for its stunning panoramic views and diverse menu, Old Bridge Restaurant offers a mix of traditional Sardinian dishes and contemporary flavours. Dishes such as risotto with truffle, seafood pasta, and meat-based mains are paired with a great selection of local wines. The elegant atmosphere and breathtaking views make it perfect for a memorable dining experience. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Nearby Places
Nearby Places
- Alghero (approx. 35 km north of Bosa): A coastal town with Catalan influences, Alghero is known for its charming old town, stunning beaches, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the medieval walls, the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the nearby Neptune’s Grotto, a sea cave accessible by boat. Alghero offers a mix of culture, history, and seaside relaxation.
- Tharros (approx. 60 km southeast of Bosa): An ancient Phoenician and Roman settlement, Tharros is an archaeological site located on the Sinis Peninsula. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, including its temples, baths, and defensive walls, while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and countryside. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's ancient past.
- Is Arutas (approx. 45 km south of Bosa): Famous for its unique quartz sand, Is Arutas beach is one of the most striking beaches on Sardinia's west coast. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and fine, white sand made up of tiny pebbles of quartz. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the tranquil coastal environment.
- Santu Lussurgiu (approx. 50 km east of Bosa): A picturesque town in the Montiferru region, Santu Lussurgiu is famous for its medieval architecture and its historic centre, which features stone houses and narrow streets. The town is also known for its natural springs and the nearby forests, making it a peaceful spot for hiking and outdoor exploration.
- Oristano (approx. 75 km southeast of Bosa): The capital of the province, Oristano offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the medieval Torre di Mariano II, the Church of San Francesco, and the nearby Sinis wetlands, which are home to a variety of bird species. Oristano is also known for its annual Sartiglia festival, a traditional equestrian event held during Carnival.
Sardinia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sardinia
1. Bosa
2. La Maddalena Archipelago
3. Alghero
4. Su Nuraxi di Barumini
5. Santa Teresa Gallura
6. Asinara
7. Gulf of Orosei
8. La Pelosa Beach
9. Gennargentu National Park
10. Tavolara
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sardinia
1. Bosa
2. La Maddalena Archipelago
3. Alghero
4. Su Nuraxi di Barumini
5. Santa Teresa Gallura
6. Asinara
7. Gulf of Orosei
8. La Pelosa Beach
9. Gennargentu National Park
10. Tavolara
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sardinia
Getting There
Getting There
By Rail: Bosa does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Macomer, about 35 km away. Trains from major cities like Cagliari (approximately 2 hours by train) and Sassari (about 1 hour by train) connect to Macomer. From the station, you can take a bus or taxi to Bosa, which takes around 40 minutes.
By Road: Bosa is approximately 150 km from Cagliari, and the drive takes around 2 hours via the SS131 road. From Alghero, it’s about 50 km, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS292 road. There are several car parks near the town centre, though parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports: The nearest international airport to Bosa is Alghero-Fertilia Airport (Aeroporto di Alghero-Fertilia), located about 55 km away. The drive takes around 1 hour. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle directly to Bosa, or alternatively, rent a car for the journey.
Another alternative is Cagliari Elmas Airport (Aeroporto di Cagliari-Elmas), about 150 km away. The drive takes around 2 hours. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Cagliari's train station and then catch a train to Macomer, followed by a bus or taxi to Bosa.
Additional Transport Options: Local buses connect Bosa to nearby towns such as Alghero and Cagliari, offering a convenient and affordable way to reach the town. These buses are frequent during the tourist season.
By Road: Bosa is approximately 150 km from Cagliari, and the drive takes around 2 hours via the SS131 road. From Alghero, it’s about 50 km, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the SS292 road. There are several car parks near the town centre, though parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports: The nearest international airport to Bosa is Alghero-Fertilia Airport (Aeroporto di Alghero-Fertilia), located about 55 km away. The drive takes around 1 hour. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle directly to Bosa, or alternatively, rent a car for the journey.
Another alternative is Cagliari Elmas Airport (Aeroporto di Cagliari-Elmas), about 150 km away. The drive takes around 2 hours. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Cagliari's train station and then catch a train to Macomer, followed by a bus or taxi to Bosa.
Additional Transport Options: Local buses connect Bosa to nearby towns such as Alghero and Cagliari, offering a convenient and affordable way to reach the town. These buses are frequent during the tourist season.
