Porto Torres, with its 2,000 years of history, is the ideal destination for those who don’t want to miss out on culture while enjoying a seaside holiday.
Founded by Julius Caesar in 46 AD it still shows the remains of the ancient town of Turris Libisonis. If you visit the National Archaeological Museum and the archaeological area you can admire its important finds, the ancient spa and walk through the paved streets and houses decorated with splendid multi-coloured marble.
From the 11th century, the impressive Basilica of St Gavinus was the biggest Romanesque monument in Sardinia. It’s a unique church due to its unusual architecture.
Inside, in the majestic 16th century crypt, the relics of the three Martiri Turritani, the city’s patron saints, are kept.
From the 14th century Aragonese Tower which welcomes you to the port, you can walk along the bustling shopping street and reach even more archaeological sites, monuments and museums which make up the culture of the city.
Sun, sea, green areas, space for leisure and sport: there really is a lot to do when you visit Porto Torres. Do not miss a walk along the sea front to admire the breathtaking views, romantic little piazzas, pure white sandy beaches and crystalline sea.
There are lots of parks and green areas where you can spend a few hours relaxing, and for the sportier among you, the cycle path and nearby pine grove are ideal places for keeping fit or taking your dog for a walk. If you are a connoisseur of good food there is no lack of restaurants and trattorias where you can try out local specialties, and lively nightspots if you want to party.
Just a few miles’ boat ride away is Asinara, the island which was once a high security prison and home to many secrets of Italy’s recent history. It’s now a national park of great environmental value which you can reach by ferry. Beautiful landscapes, enchanted beaches and rare species of animal abound. All of this can be seen on foot, by boat, horse, catamaran, canoe, jeep and tourist train. If not, go trekking or try out one of the many different points where you can do scuba diving and visit one of the most important underwater Roman archaeological sites in the Mediterranean Sea.
Its enviable central position allows you to reach the nearby resorts of Stintino (20mins away), Alghero and the Alghero-Fertilia airport (40mins) and the famous Emerald Coast (Costa Smeralda, little more than 1hr). Near to everything and full of history, tradition and culture, Porto Torres is the ideal place for your Sardinian holiday.