Nuoro
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Latest page update: 30 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Introducing
Introducing Nuoro
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The city of Nuoro is the capital city of the Province of Nuoro with a population of 36,154 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 554 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 192 km² and lies 163 kilometres north of Cagliari, the regional capital of Sardinia. Occupying a central, inland position, Nuoro is known as a centre of Sardinian culture with a series of museums to visit and a history of attracting artists and writers. |
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One of those writers, D H Lawrence, is perhaps not the biggest advocate of sightseeing in the town; in his 1921 book Sea and Sardinia, he wrote "There's nothing to see in Nuoro", but did follow that up with the interesting caveat that "Happy is the town that has nothing to show", so make of that what you will. Nuoro does of course have some sights; among them are the Cathedral, the Museo d'Arte Provincia di Nuoro (shortened to "MAN"), and Piazza Satta with its open air sculptures.
What People Ask About Nuoro
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Discover Nuoro
Nuoro is a vibrant town located in the central part of Sardinia, within the province of Nuoro. Situated at the foot of Mount Ortobene, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a scenic and cultural heart of the island. The town is known for its blend of traditional Sardinian charm and modernity, with its historic centre featuring narrow streets, local shops, and beautiful squares.
Nuoro is renowned for its cultural significance, often referred to as the "city of writers" due to its connection to many of Sardinia's most celebrated authors, such as Grazia Deledda, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature. The town is home to several museums, including the Museo Deledda and the Museo Archeologico, which showcase Sardinia's rich history and cultural heritage.
Nearby, Mount Ortobene provides excellent hiking opportunities with trails leading to its summit, offering breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding landscape. Nuoro is also close to the charming village of Orgosolo, known for its famous murals depicting Sardinian life and history. Additionally, the beautiful beaches of the east coast, such as those near Orosei, are within a short drive, providing a contrast to the town’s mountain surroundings. With its combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and proximity to both the mountains and coast, Nuoro offers a well-rounded Sardinian experience.
Nuoro is renowned for its cultural significance, often referred to as the "city of writers" due to its connection to many of Sardinia's most celebrated authors, such as Grazia Deledda, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature. The town is home to several museums, including the Museo Deledda and the Museo Archeologico, which showcase Sardinia's rich history and cultural heritage.
Nearby, Mount Ortobene provides excellent hiking opportunities with trails leading to its summit, offering breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding landscape. Nuoro is also close to the charming village of Orgosolo, known for its famous murals depicting Sardinian life and history. Additionally, the beautiful beaches of the east coast, such as those near Orosei, are within a short drive, providing a contrast to the town’s mountain surroundings. With its combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and proximity to both the mountains and coast, Nuoro offers a well-rounded Sardinian experience.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Nuoro
- Museo della Vita e delle Tradizioni Popolari Sarde is one of Sardinia’s most important ethnographic museums. It contains traditional clothing, tools, musical instruments and household items. The exhibits provide insight into rural life across the island’s regions.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria della Neve is the city’s main church, located in the heart of Nuoro’s historic centre. The neoclassical façade opens into a spacious interior with vaulted ceilings and religious artworks. The surrounding square is used for festivals and gatherings.
- Museo Deleddiano is dedicated to Grazia Deledda, Sardinia’s Nobel Prize-winning author. Housed in her former home, the museum showcases personal belongings, manuscripts and photographs. It gives context to her novels, many of which were set in the surrounding area.
- Climbing Monte Ortobene is a popular local activity, offering views over Nuoro and central Sardinia. A road and several footpaths lead to the summit, where a large statue of Christ the Redeemer stands. Picnic areas and shaded rest stops line the route.
- Day trips to the villages of Barbagia give access to traditional crafts, murals and regional cuisine. Towns like Orgosolo, Mamoiada and Oliena are known for wine, masks and cultural festivals. Guided tours often include tastings and local artisans' workshops.
Nuoro Tours and Activities
Comune di Nuoro
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Province: Nuoro
Region: Sardinia Population: 33,611 (in 2024 - source) Size: 192 km² Elevation: 554 metres Highlights: cathedral, Museo d'Arte Provincia di Nuoro (MAN) Close by: Burgos, Supramonte, Cala Gonone, Orosei Gulf |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Nuoro
- Hotel Grillo is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Nuoro, offering a comfortable and modern stay. The hotel features well-appointed rooms with contemporary amenities, a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and a bar. Its central location allows easy access to the town’s attractions, including the Museum of the Sardinian Life and Popular Traditions and the nearby Gennargentu National Park. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Hotel Sandalia is a well-regarded 3-star hotel located just outside the centre of Nuoro, offering a peaceful retreat while still being close to the town’s key attractions. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving Sardinian dishes, and a spacious garden area. Its location makes it a great base for exploring Nuoro and the surrounding mountains and nature reserves. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- B&B Santu Predu is a family-run bed and breakfast located in a quiet area of Nuoro, offering an intimate and affordable stay. The B&B features comfortable rooms with traditional Sardinian décor, a delicious homemade breakfast, and a lovely garden. Its peaceful location is perfect for those seeking a more personal experience while still being within easy reach of the town centre and local attractions. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable).
- Residenza d'Epoca Regina d'Arborea is a boutique hotel located in the historical centre of Nuoro, offering a mix of modern comfort and historic charm. The property features elegant rooms, a small garden, and a café serving Sardinian coffee and pastries. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the town’s historical and cultural attractions, with easy access to museums and landmarks. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Hotel Su Gologone is a luxurious 4-star hotel located just outside Nuoro, set in a tranquil countryside setting. The hotel offers spacious rooms with traditional Sardinian décor, a large outdoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving local specialties. The peaceful location, combined with high-end amenities, makes this hotel ideal for guests seeking relaxation and a taste of Sardinia’s natural beauty. Price Guide: €€€€ (Luxury).
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Nuoro
- Ristorante Monti Blu: Situated in the historical centre, Monti Blu offers a creative approach to Sardinian cuisine. The menu includes refined dishes such as lamb with myrtle, homemade ravioli, and locally sourced cheeses, served in a stylish yet intimate space that also doubles as a cultural venue. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Il Rifugio: Located just outside the centre, Il Rifugio specialises in traditional mountain fare, including hearty meat stews, porcini mushrooms, and gnocchetti sardi. The rustic decor and generous portions make it a favourite for those looking to enjoy regional dishes in a warm and relaxed setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Epicurea: A small, modern eatery near the main piazza, Epicurea focuses on seasonal, locally inspired recipes. Expect dishes like fregula with vegetables, slow-cooked meats, and elegant desserts, with careful attention to presentation and flavour. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Dulcisu: Known for its regional cuisine and panoramic views from its hilltop position about 2 km from the centre, Dulcisu serves set menus featuring antipasti spreads, roast meats, handmade pasta, and Sardinian desserts. It’s a good option for a traditional meal in a peaceful setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Braceria Il Tetto: A relaxed spot near the town’s commercial area, Il Tetto is popular for its wood-fired pizzas and grilled meat dishes. With a large outdoor terrace and informal service, it’s well suited for families or casual dining. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Nuoro Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Nuoro
- Orgosolo (approx. 20 km southwest of Nuoro): A village renowned for its rich history and distinctive murals, Orgosolo is an artistic hub, with vibrant street art depicting local life, politics, and history. The town also offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Sardinian culture and explore the surrounding Gennargentu Mountains, which provide ample opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
- Dorgali (approx. 25 km east of Nuoro): A picturesque town nestled in the hills, Dorgali is the gateway to the stunning Gennargentu National Park and the famous Cala Gonone beaches. Visitors can enjoy the local archaeological sites, including the Nuraghe Mannu, or explore the surrounding landscapes, which offer exceptional hiking, canyoning, and rock climbing opportunities.
- Oliena (approx. 10 km north of Nuoro): Known for its traditional Sardinian architecture and beautiful landscapes, Oliena is famous for the Su Gologone Springs, a natural spring that provides crystal-clear waters in a stunning setting. The town is also known for its wine, particularly the Cannonau variety, and visitors can explore the nearby Tiscali, an ancient village nestled in a cave high in the mountains.
- Sorgono (approx. 30 km south of Nuoro): A quiet town set in the rolling hills of central Sardinia, Sorgono is perfect for those wanting to explore the heart of the island. Known for its rural charm, the town offers a relaxing environment, along with a selection of local crafts and products. The surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Tirso River Valley (approx. 35 km north of Nuoro): The Valle del Tirso is a striking natural landscape with rugged hills and fertile valleys. The area is perfect for those looking to experience rural Sardinia, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring small villages such as Sarule and Bitti, which are steeped in local traditions and folklore.
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
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Nuoro
Nuoro's train station is situated east of the city centre, a 15 minute walk (1.2 km) from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Train services from Nuoro are quite limited but you can take the train west to Macomer (1 hour 16 minutes), and then pick up the Trenino Verde, a scenic train route that crosses the interior towards the beautiful town of Bosa on the west coast. To reach Cagliari from Nuoro by public transport there are buses that head south, reaching the capital in 2 hours 39 minutes.
The most convenient airport for Nuoro is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport which is an hour and 12 minutes away by car (104 km). The next best option is Alghero Fertilia Airport which is slightly further away, a drive of an hour an 45 minutes (149 km). Further away still but with a similar journey time to Alghero Airport is Cagliari Elmas Airport which is an hour and 47 minutes by car, a distance of 175 kilometres.
Just a short distance away from Nuoro there are some great places to visit. To the west lies the hill town of Burgos, but there are even greater rewards to be had by journeying east towards the coast. Pass the Supramonte massif for great mountain views before arriving at the seaside town of Cala Gonone. From here you can take a boat ride along the beautiful Orosei Gulf with its cobalt blue water edging white sandy beaches, among which is Cala Goloritzè, considered to be one of the best on the island.
The most convenient airport for Nuoro is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport which is an hour and 12 minutes away by car (104 km). The next best option is Alghero Fertilia Airport which is slightly further away, a drive of an hour an 45 minutes (149 km). Further away still but with a similar journey time to Alghero Airport is Cagliari Elmas Airport which is an hour and 47 minutes by car, a distance of 175 kilometres.
Just a short distance away from Nuoro there are some great places to visit. To the west lies the hill town of Burgos, but there are even greater rewards to be had by journeying east towards the coast. Pass the Supramonte massif for great mountain views before arriving at the seaside town of Cala Gonone. From here you can take a boat ride along the beautiful Orosei Gulf with its cobalt blue water edging white sandy beaches, among which is Cala Goloritzè, considered to be one of the best on the island.
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Public transport: central train station, local buses
By train: Macomer - 1 hour 16 minutes |
By car: Oristano - 59 mins (88 km), Sassari - 1 hour 22' (119 km)
Fly to: Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport - 1 hour 12' by car (104 km) |
