Weekend in Oristano

The main square, named after the medieval judge who ruled the Giudicato of Arborea. The centrepiece is a statue of Eleonora herself. It's a good place to sit on a bench and watch l

Tip: The best spot for a coffee is the bar at the north-east corner of the square—cheaper than the tourist-facing cafés. The statue is a meeting point for locals, not just tourists.

A 13th-century Pisan tower attached to the cathedral. You can climb it for panoramic views over Oristano and the surrounding plain. The climb is narrow and steep, but the view at t

Tip: Go just before sunset for the best light on the rooftops and the Gulf of Oristano. The staircase gets tight, so leave bags at the bottom.

A medieval church with a distinctive severe façade and a simple, airy interior. The highlight is the collection of wooden altarpieces and a serene cloister adjacent to the building.

Tip: The cloister is often quiet mid-morning, perfect for a break from the sun. Look for the small fresco fragments on the cloister walls.

A large city park with mature trees, walking paths, and a playground. Good for a morning run or a picnic. The park also has an open-air archaeological area with Phoenician and Roman remains.

Tip: Bring your own snacks and water—there’s no café inside. The archaeological area is unmarked, so ask at the tourist office for a map.

An archaeological museum housed in a former monastery. The highlight is the collection of nuragic bronzes and Roman pottery. Entry is a few euros and includes a small temporary exhibition.

Tip: The museum is small—allow an hour. Ask at the desk for the audio guide, which adds context to the bronzes. Closed on Mondays.