How to get to Bosa: flights, car and bus to western Sardinia

How to get to Bosa

Bosa sits on the western coast of Sardinia, in the Planargia region. Its off-the-beaten-path position has helped preserve its authenticity, but requires some logistical planning to reach.

By air

Alghero-Fertilia Airport

The closest, about 45 km away. Served by Ryanair and other airlines from Milan, Rome, Bologna, Pisa and several European cities. From Alghero to Bosa the coastal road SP49 is one of Sardinia's most spectacular drives: 45 km of panoramic bends between cliffs and sea. Journey time about 1 hour.

Cagliari-Elmas Airport

About 180 km, the island's main hub. Connected with all of Italy and many international destinations. From Cagliari, Bosa is reached in about 2 hours 30 minutes via SS131 and SP19.

Olbia-Costa Smeralda Airport

About 200 km, an alternative for arrivals from northern Europe. From Olbia to Bosa about 2 hours 45 minutes via SS131.

By car

A car is the most convenient and recommended way to reach Bosa and explore the surroundings.

From Alghero

Two options: the coastal road SP49 (more scenic, 1 hour) or the inland road via Villanova Monteleone (faster, 45 minutes). The coastal route is highly recommended for its stunning scenery.

From Sassari

SS131 to Macomer, then SP19 to Bosa. About 1 hour 30 minutes. Alternative via Alghero and the coast road.

From Oristano

SP19 northward, crossing the Planargia. About 1 hour. Scenic and quiet road.

From Cagliari

SS131 (the "Carlo Felice") to Macomer or Paulilatino, then SP19/SP49 towards the coast. About 2 hours 30 minutes.

Parking

The centre of Bosa is partly pedestrianised. Free parking is available along the riverbank and near the cathedral. At Bosa Marina there are paid car parks in summer.

By ferry

The nearest ports are Olbia (200 km) and Porto Torres (130 km), connected with Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia and Barcelona. From Porto Torres to Bosa about 1 hour 45 minutes by car.

By bus

The ARST network connects Bosa with major Sardinian centres.

Bosa-Alghero: about 2 hours (via Villanova, not the coastal road)
Bosa-Macomer: 40 minutes (from Macomer connections to Cagliari by train)
Bosa-Oristano: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Services are limited, especially on Sundays. Always check timetables on the ARST website.

By train

Bosa has no railway station. The nearest is Macomer, on the Cagliari-Sassari-Olbia line. From Macomer ARST bus to Bosa (40 minutes). The Trenino Verde, Sardinia's tourist train, crosses spectacular landscapes but does not reach Bosa directly.

Practical tips

Car hire at Alghero-Fertilia is the best solution: competitive prices and maximum freedom
The coastal road SP49 is narrow and winding: beautiful but requires attention
In summer book car hire in advance: prices rise significantly in high season
Without a car, Bosa is reachable but getting around the area becomes complicated
The petrol station is in the centre of Bosa: fill up before excursions along the coast