My Sardinia

In Sardinia, there is a time for everything, especially the tourist sites. The famous churches of Sardinia, meaning those that have become must-see tourist stops, such as the Pisan churches of Santa Trinita di Saccargia near Sassari and the one in San Gavino in Porto Torres, are open all day and every day. The other churches observe the usual hours - meaning, they open at around 7 or 8 a.m. for the morning mass, and then close at around noon. You can visit again for the afternoon mass at 4 or 5 p.m., and until they close at 7 p.m. The more obscure and smaller churches open only for the early morning and evening masses, while the even smaller ones are open only on Sundays and holy days of obligation.

There will be cases wherein the structures (this could include old monasteries and convents as well as churches) will be closed for restoration (look out for the sign that says, “chiuso per restauro“), but it is not that difficult to persuade the workman or the priest to let you in and even show you around.

Museums and archaeological sites are usually closed on Mondays. Visit the museums from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. when they are likely to be open; they generally open for only a few hours in the afternoon. Remember also that they close earlier on Sundays, usually at around 12:30 p.m. Visit the archaeological sites from 9 a.m. until closing time, usually an hour before sunset. In winter, this hour could be around 4 p.m.; in summer, it is at 1 p.m. Most nuraghi are open to anyone at all hours, though the more important ones usually have set times (9 a.m. to sunset) and charge for admission.

In visiting these sites, always be respectful. Some nuraghi are next to private lands which you have to cross, so better seek permission first. Churches are as conservative here as they are in much of the Mediterranean; this means no shorts and no bare shoulders or arms for women. Also be aware of ongoing masses when you visit and avoid sightseeing when there is a service being held.