Sassari, Italy

Capital City

With a population of 121,021, Sassari is the second-largest city in Sardinia, but its charm comes with a price. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city's history of foreign rule has left a legacy of red tape. While the neoclassical architecture and Fountain of the Rosello are undoubtedly picturesque, the reliance on tourism and services means the local economy can be volatile. Nonetheless, Sassari's cultural heritage, from the Faradda di li candareri festival to the National Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum, offer a unique experience for those willing to navigate its challenges.