Nora Archaeological Area (Area Archeologica di Nora) Tours and Activities
The ancient city of Nora was once among the most powerful settlements on Sardinia. Founded by the Phoenicians, this coastal capital later became an important Punic and Roman metropolis. Inside the ruins, you can visit a Roman theater and baths and see mosaic fragments and other archaeological artefacts.
The Basics
Set on the Cape of Pula promontory, south of Cagliari, the ancient city of Nora is one of Sardinia’s most important archeological sites. Beginning in the 8th century BC, Nora thrived for over a millennia before the threat of Arab raids drove residents from this coastal stronghold in the 8th century AD. The site is only accessible on a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance or join a day trip from Cagliari.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Nora Archaeological Site (Area Archeologica di Nora) is on Capo di Pula on Sardinia’s southeastern coast, below Cagliari. Drive to the nearby modern town of Nora and take a shuttle bus to the site, or opt for a tour that includes transportation from Cagliari.
When to Get There
The archaeological site is open year-round. If you go in the summer, be aware that Sardinia’s midday temperatures can be grueling, and the best time to visit would be in the morning or late afternoon.
Highlights of the Nora Archaeological Site
Among the most notable ruins inside the site are a column from the Temple of Tanit, which was dedicated to the worship of the Carthaginian Venus; a 2nd-century Roman theater overlooking the sea; the remains of Roman baths; and four tetrastyle columns and mosaic floors from a Roman villa. The 17th-century Torre del Coltellazzo, built on top of what had been a Phoenician acropolis, looms over the ancient town.
The Basics
Set on the Cape of Pula promontory, south of Cagliari, the ancient city of Nora is one of Sardinia’s most important archeological sites. Beginning in the 8th century BC, Nora thrived for over a millennia before the threat of Arab raids drove residents from this coastal stronghold in the 8th century AD. The site is only accessible on a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance or join a day trip from Cagliari.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The site is outdoors and must be explored on foot, so choose sturdy shoes and wear a hat and sunscreen.
- The ruins are spread over rough terrain and are only partially accessible to wheelchair users; request information and assistance at the information office.
- The Pula promontory has a lovely stretch of beach, so pack your suit to take a swim break before or after touring the site. Keep in mind that visitors are not allowed to enter the site wearing bathing suits.
- There is a snack bar and souvenir shop inside the site.
- You can take in beautiful views of the sea and coastline from the ruins at the far point of the cape.
How to Get There
The Nora Archaeological Site (Area Archeologica di Nora) is on Capo di Pula on Sardinia’s southeastern coast, below Cagliari. Drive to the nearby modern town of Nora and take a shuttle bus to the site, or opt for a tour that includes transportation from Cagliari.
When to Get There
The archaeological site is open year-round. If you go in the summer, be aware that Sardinia’s midday temperatures can be grueling, and the best time to visit would be in the morning or late afternoon.
Highlights of the Nora Archaeological Site
Among the most notable ruins inside the site are a column from the Temple of Tanit, which was dedicated to the worship of the Carthaginian Venus; a 2nd-century Roman theater overlooking the sea; the remains of Roman baths; and four tetrastyle columns and mosaic floors from a Roman villa. The 17th-century Torre del Coltellazzo, built on top of what had been a Phoenician acropolis, looms over the ancient town.
Address: Nora Province of Cagliari, 09010, Italy
Admission: Varies
8 Tours and Activities to Experience Nora Archaeological Area (Area Archeologica di Nora)
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Private Half-Day Trip from Cagliari to Nora Ruins
Discover three of southern Sardinia’s most important ancient landmarks on this private, half-day tour. Don’t worry about the logistics: the itinerary includes round-trip transportation from your area accommodation or port. Meet your driver and set off first for Nora, where you’ll find the ruins of an ancient city first founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century BC (entry own expense). Then, you’ll visit an ancient Roman necropolis and amphitheater.
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From
$112.78
Price varies by group size
From
$112.78
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Cagliari Shore Excursion: Archaeological Nuraghe and Nora Tour
This Cagliari shore excursion allows cruise passengers to explore the Phoenician ruins of Nora and a nuraghe—a distinctive Nuragic-era structure. With a guide in the lead there’s no need to worry about navigation from your port of call; just take your time visiting the archeological ruins that are emblematic of Sardinia’s distinct, sometimes puzzling, pre-historic culture.
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From
$156.23
Price varies by group size
From
$156.23
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Cagliari Shore Excursion: Nora Archaeological Site and Pula Town
Beat the crowds and travel at your own pace on this half-day private shore excursion from Cagliari port to the archaeological site at Nora. Tour the Roman and Phoenician ruins with your private guide, seeing sights from the Temple of Tanit to the Roman theater. Next, shop for souvenirs at the craft shops of the charming town of Pula.
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From
$156.23
Price varies by group size
From
$156.23
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Tour to the ancient roman city of Nora
6
The ancient city of Nora is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Its particular location on the coast facilitated the settlement of the Phoenicians in the VIII century BC and after of the Carthaginians, but it was in Roman times that Nora experienced its heyday becoming the first capital of Sardinia.
We will discover together the old neighborhoods, the luxurious villas decorated with mosaics, the baths, the temples, the ancient cobbled streets and the splendid theater.
Not only archaeology, but also relax! The entire area is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, perfect setting for taking amazing photos, which will be part of your memories, with the Tower of Coltellazzo standing in the background and a golden beach that leads us to the church of Sant’Efisio, one of the most beloved saints by Sardinian people to whom is dedicated one of the longest procession in Europe which takes place at the beginning of May.
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From
$68.58
Price varies by group size
From
$68.58
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Cagliari: Nora Archaeological Site Tour from Chia
4
A trip to Sardinia wouldn't be complete without visiting ancient ruins. They're a true marvel, but unfortunately most visitors often spend more time wandering through them than actively learning about them. This tour makes it possible to do both. Walk through the ruins of the pre-Roman Sardinian village, Nora, with a guide to learn about Phoenician urban planning, art, and history. Plus, skip-the-line admission fees are included, and you can upgrade for a private-tour experience if you wish.
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From
$107.79
Price varies by group size
From
$107.79
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Excursion to Nora
Visit the Roman archaeological site of Nora on a day trip from Cagliari, and discover the wonders of the ruined coastal settlement as you explore. After leaving your private vehicle, enter the site with a prebooked ticket to wander amid archaeological highlights such as the Temple of Aesculapius and an ancient necropolis. Round-trip hotel transport is included for a relaxing experience.
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From
$84.78
From
$84.78
The archaeological site of Nora
Enjoy the visit to one of the most fascinating archaeological sites on the island and one of the best examples of Roman ruins in Sardinia.
In Nora you will walk through the ruins of amazing buildings of the Roman times, such as the different thermal baths and the beautiful theatre, while admiring the breathtaking scenery around the site and the Mediterranean sea at its best.
On the way back to Cagliari you will have the chance to spot pink flamingos in the area of Santa Gilla and have a panoramic drive of the city of Cagliari.
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From
$84.78
From
$84.78
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
8 days Escorted Tour Sardinia Amore Mio
Guaranteed departures group travel: small, friendly group limited to 25/30 participants only!
An ancient land with an ancient language, Sardinia is a uniquely fascinating place, forged by many centuries of culture and history, in its strategic position at the center of the Mediterranean. Its awe-inspiring treasures of the past, such as the Nuraghic bronzes in Cagliari and the Megalithic tombs of the giants, can be admired in the island’s many museums, or in its archaeological areas, some dating back as far as the 7th century BC.
Travel to Sardinia with their idyllic climate, archaeology treasures, dramatic vistas and hearty cuisine that embodies all things Sardinian.
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From
$2,422.15
From
$2,422.15
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More
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