15 Best Things to Do in Olbia, Sardinia (2024)

Find out what to do in Olbia, Sardinia. From its lovely beaches to its lively city scenes, the city of Olbia is bursting with things to see and do. Visit Olbia, Italy with our guide to the top things to do in the city.

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Welcome to Olbia, your gateway to Sardinia, an island brimming with natural beauty and an incredible cultural landscape. Olbia is a delightful city, home to a tight-knit community and plenty of tourist hot spots.

In this travel guide, we will explore the hidden gems of Olbia as well as its typical attractions, from a relaxing day at Porto Istana Beach to a cultural exploration of the San Simplicio area. I will take you to Parco Fausto Noce - one of the city’s most popular natural areas - as well as to Corso Umberto where you will get to feel the real pulse of Sardinia.

📜 A Brief History of Olbia

Olbia sits in northeastern Sardinia, Italy. A place with deep roots, it once thrived as a Greek spot. Its perch on the Gulf of Olbia, a slice of the Tyrrhenian Sea, marked it as key terrain.

History here saw Romans trouncing Carthaginian general Hanno in 259 BC. Pisan settlers rebooted the city in 1198, dubbing it Terranova Pausania, a name it kept until 1939. It became a medieval nexus in the Gallura judiciary circuit, with Tempio Pausania at its heart. Phoenician and Roman tombs pepper the land. The Pisan Romanesque Church of San Simplicio stands, a silent witness to its storied past.

Olbia means "happiness" in Greek. The city's Archaeological Museum sits on Peddone island, near the old port. It shows off its Phoenician, Greek, Punic, Roman past. The building looks like a docked ship, nodding to Olbia's sea legacy. Inside, you'll find ship parts, ancient gear. It tells stories, like the Vandal attack in 450 CE that killed Roman Olbia.

🔭 Where Is Olbia?

Olbia sits in northeastern Sardinia, a hub of history and nature. It's economic and tourist gold. It lies at 40°55′N 9°30′E, sprawling over 383.64 km². The city faces a stunning gulf, gateway to the Emerald Coast. Here, beaches like Porto Istana and Pittulongu dazzle with turquoise waters. It's a magnet for beach and history buffs.

Since ancient days, Olbia mattered. First, Greeks settled, then Romans, then Pisans took over. Its port, crucial for trade, links to Civitavecchia. The local economy? It's built on trade, fishing, cork, and tourists flocking to see ancient ruins and natural beauty.

🌍 Olbia Sardinia Map

👀 15 Things to Do in Olbia Sardinia

If you're lucky enough to visit Olbia, Sardinia, make sure to explore some of the following amazing activities and sights on this beautiful island off the coast of Italy:

Visit L'Area Naturale Marina Protetta Tavolara

🟢 Tavolara - Punta Coda Cavallo in Sardinia guards 15,357 hectares of sea, 76.094 km of coast. It's a marine gem. The place teams with life, land, and sea. It’s split up: Zone A’s off-limits, rescue and science only. Zones B and C have looser rules, diving and swimming okay under certain conditions. It’s a wildlife refuge, home to birds, reptiles, and mammals. Crucial for conservation, research.

Beaches, and granite cliffs define it. Capo Ceraso, Porto Istana beaches, and more. Molara and tiny islands show off worn granite, shaped by time. Plants and animals here are special, endemic species mix with Mediterranean scrub. The fauna? A big slice of Sardinia's vertebrates, underlining its ecological weight.

Visiting? Come early, have coins ready for parking. Snorkeling? It’s a must, dive into biodiversity.

Sailing Boat Tour from S. Teodoro-Puntaldia to Tavolara, Molara

🟢 The Sailing Boat Tour hits Sardinia's sweet spots in 7–8 hours, with a thumbs-up from 96% of its sailors. Costs you $108.55 to hop on. It breezes through Cala Brandinchi, dips into Molara's clear waters for a swim and a snorkel, then tops it off with an aperitif. Lunch? Served with a side of stunning coastlines.

Check out the Museum Civitatense Basilica di San Simplicio

🟢 San Simplicio in Olbia started as an ancient cathedral. Now it's a "Minor Basilica." A Romanesque relic, it marks 12th-century tales through stone and design.

Perched on a hill, this place has seen centuries of use. Since 750 BC, it's been a graveyard, a spot for deity worship tied to life and death cycles. The Romans built a temple here for Ceres. Later, it shifted to Christian use, honoring four martyrs of Olbia: Simplicio, Diocleziano, Fiorenzo, and Rosula.

Visitors find peace here, surrounded by history, old columns, and carvings. Two saint frescoes watch over. Saint Simplicio's relics rest beneath the altar, adding depth to the spiritual air. Simple in looks, both inside and out, it draws those keen on history and faith.

3 and a Half Hours Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching in Figarolo

Dive into the 🟢 "3 and a half hours Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching in Figarolo" tour. The DST team throws you into the heart of Figarolo's waters. You'll chase bottlenose dolphins, explore Capo Figari, and snorkel through Cala Greca's crystal waters. They kit you out with all you need—snorkels to snacks. It's raw nature, up close, no frills.

Go to Isola Rossa

🟢 Isola Rossa sits in Sardinia's north, a quaint fishing spot. Peace reigns here, perfect for unwind. It's wedged between Castelsardo and Santa Teresa, glowing pink in the sun. An island mirrors this hue offshore. Beaches here sparkle, waters clear, and a massive Spanish tower watches over. Ideal for quiet escapes, it boasts pink sand at Baia Trinita.

The village packs everything you need. Bars, eateries, shops, and a fish joint line the streets. You'll find sports, diving, bike and boat rentals. Even a doctor is on call. Aquafantasy water park is a kilometer away. Beaches feature white sand and red cliffs. Boats dot the harbor. It's a launchpad for northern Sardinia exploration.

Isola Rossa's waters are pristine, a diver's and surfer's haven. Marinedda beach is a surf spot, known for its annual Frozen Open. The area is dotted with ancient sites. Boat tours and Aquafantasy add spice to nights filled with music and pubs. A multifaceted destination, indeed.

Small Group Tour by MINIVAN La Maddalena & Caprera Island

🟢 Dive into the Mediterranean's heart for 6+ hours. La Maddalena and Caprera await. Price: $149. Discover landscapes, history. Pure exploration, no fluff.

Visit Tenute Olbios

🟢 Tenute Olbios nails the wine game. It's where exquisite meets local on a plate, surrounded by Sardinia's eye candy. They walk you through vine to wine, then let you taste the journey. This spot's a crash course in winemaking with a side of Sardinian flavor. Top marks for their tours, view, and brunch that's as rich as their grapes. A must-hit for anyone digging into Sardinia's wine and dine scene.

Wine & Food Tour in Tuk Tuk

🟢 Hit the streets of Sardinia in a tuk tuk. Dive into its wine and grub legacy. Two hours, starts at $106. Cruise through Olbia, and hit a hillside winery. Cellar tour, barrel room walk-through, then wine tasting. Three local pours meet Sardinian bites. Guides in five languages, ensuring no traveler feels left out. It's an intimate, private dive into Sardinian vines.yes shou

Riders loved the mix: tuk tuk fun, wine sips, local eats. They praised the novel combo, hailed it informative and tasty. Some gripes about pick-up spots, wished for chatty drivers. Still, it's stamped as a must-do for a taste of Sardinia.

Make a Pilgrimage to the Museo Archeologico di Olbia

🟢 The Museo Archeologico di Olbia cuts to the chase of ancient history. It's a ship-shaped beacon, anchoring you to Olbia's past. Inside, you find layers of human hustle: Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, all the way to modern times.

Two floors lay it bare. Bottom floor? Real ship bits, burnt cargo ships from a Vandal barbecue in 450 CE, and Italy's lone medieval shipwreck. Plus, a harbor model from the 2nd century.

Top floor digs into the deep past: pre-Nuragic, Nuragic, then Phoenician settlers around 750 BCE, and Greek squatters, making Olbia the Greek club of the western Med. It doesn't stop there. Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines - the museum packs it all.

This place is a must for history junkies. It serves up a slice of ancient life, showing off Olbia's role as Sardinia's front door and a maritime heavyweight. Stands out for its stash of Roman shipwrecks, Italy's top spot.

Small Group Tour Alghero, Capo Caccia & Neptuno's Grottos

🟢 For €135, dive into Sardinia's heart. The tour spans 8–9 hours. You hit Alghero, soak in Capo Caccia's views, and explore Neptuno's Grottos. It's raw Sardinia in a day.

You start with three hours in Alghero, tasting medieval air. Next, 30 minutes at Capo Caccia, where cliffs dare the sky. Then, Neptune's Grotto waits, but you pay extra to enter. This ride through time and nature offers a cancel-anytime ticket. Perfect for the wanderer in you.

Journey to Cala Sabina

🟢 Cala Sabina in Asinara National Park, Sardinia, is a standout. White sands, granite cliffs, and the park's only swim spot. Sand so fine, water so clear, it's like stepping into a postcard. You need permission to get there, by sea or trek. It's a slice of peace, wrapped in wild scrub. Beach lovers, this one's for you.

One Hour of Breath in a Beehive

For $55, 🟢 relax and meditate inside a beehive's buzz for an hour. This rare Sardinian chill pill lets you melt into bee hums. It's a journey inward, finding peace in the buzz.

Corso Umberto

At night, 🟢 Corso Umberto in Olbia lights up. It's where art meets life under twinkling lights. Shops and cafes line this social hub, offering a slice of Italian nightlife. A stroll here isn't just recommended, it's essential for soaking in Sardinia's vibe.

Dolphin Watching Tour with Snorkeling from Olbia

🟢 Travelers love the Dolphin Tour from Olbia. It scores a 98% like rate. The 3.5-hour trip welcomes anyone aged 4 to 80, maxing out at ten per group. It kicks off and wraps up at MOYS - Marina di Olbia. You'll snorkel, spot dolphins, sip local beer, and snack on Sardinian treats. It's a full dive into marine life.

Make a Pilgrimage to Porto Rotondo

Porto Rotondo sits on Sardinia's edge, duking it out with Porto Cervo in charm. Its streets, echoing Venice, pack a quiet winter punch with just a thousand locals. Come summer, the population explodes to 30,000. Think luxury hotels, 800 boat spots, and a jet-setter's dream.

The place buzzes with elite clubs, loud nights, and top-notch beaches. VIPs flock here, making it a see-and-be-seen spot, even without the Costa Smeralda label. It's the rival that keeps Porto Cervo on its toes.

Expect postcard views, mythical sands, and a marina that screams money. Crafted by Venetian moguls, it's a playground for the rich, with villas that ooze class. The vibe? Chill by day, party by night, with some of Italy's finest beaches thrown in.

It's pricey, but Porto Rotondo delivers with cool eateries, buzzing bars, and shops worth browsing. The marina invites leisurely walks, beach days, and easygoing vibes. A pricy gem, but worth the stroll and the sun.

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✈️ How to Get to Olbia, Sardinia

Here's a quick rundown of transportation options in Oblia, Sardinia:

🚙 Car Hire Sardinia Olbia Airport

Need a ride in Olbia? Check 🟢 GetTransfer.com. It's cheaper than taxis. Just need a car briefly? Their hourly rates win. Compare. You'll spot the difference. They're global. City or country, they've got you. Even helicopters and planes. Pricing's the kicker. No fixed rates. Drivers bid. You pick the best deal. Test it. They vow the lowest rates.

Olbia Airport in Sardinia is your go-to for car rentals. Options abound. From zippy economy cars for quick hops to plush sedans for the long hauls. SIXT stands out, offering sleek, feature-packed rides. Think child seats, extra drivers, and GPS for smooth island navigation.

• Rental desks work long hours, 08:00 to 23:00, holidays included. Need to drop off your car after hours? No problem, some companies have you covered.
• Feedback matters. Zest Car Rental scores high with customers for clear communication and solid service. They throw in perks like excess insurance, free cancellations, and 24/7 help, all without sneaky extras.

Prices and availability vary. It pays to shop around. Happy renters often highlight the ease of booking, car quality, and friendly airport staff. To nail the best rental experience, think about your needs. Type of car, add-ons like GPS, and insurance matter. Book early to snag better deals, especially when demand spikes.

🏕️ Camping Olbia Sardinia

Camping in Olbia, Sardinia, has something for everyone, from classic campgrounds to cool farm stays. It's a great mix of options for all kinds of travelers.

Camping Isuledda

🟢 Camping Isuledda is the go-to spot in northeast Sardinia, right where the Costa Smeralda's stunning beaches are. It's a solid 4-star place where you can set up camp or snag a rental, all next to the sea. Whether you're into tents or prefer a bit more comfort, they've got you covered. The beach is just a few steps away, and the La Maddalena archipelago is practically in your backyard. There's also a free kids club and a spa named "Mirage Panta Rei" that you won't want to miss. They're open from April 19 to November 4, 2024, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy the water, relax at the spa, or check out the beautiful archipelago.

Stazzu la Capretta Farm Camping B&B Guesthouse

🟢 Stazzu la Capretta offers a fresh twist on the typical camping vibe. Tucked away in a tranquil spot, it's just a short drive, 20 minutes to the beaches of Costa Smeralda and 30 to Olbia airport. This place combines the best of both worlds: a farm stay and a guesthouse, all set in the beauty of nature.

Starting at 70€ per night, you can choose from cozy rooms to an upscale Glamping Lodge Tent, breakfast not included. But hey, for an extra 9€ per person, you can enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast. Each accommodation comes with a handy kitchen corner and a gas BBQ, with a minimum three-night stay. This unique spot really lets you connect with nature and experience life on an authentic Sardinian farm that's been around for over 123 years.

👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Olbia and Sardinia

Exploring Olbia and Sardinia with a local guide who knows the ins and outs is definitely one of the coolest choices you can make for your trip. Check out some of our top favorite guided tours that we think you're going to absolutely love:

🍴 Where to Eat in Olbia Sardinia

Eating out in Olbia is pretty awesome. Here are a few spots we really like:

• Don Carlos
  Steakhouses get bloated. Don Carlos isn’t one. Prime cuts, no fluff. Starters that surprise.
• Summer Beach Restaurant - Adults Only
  Italian. Seafood. Right on the beach. Adults only. It’s not just food; it’s a scene.
• Be Free 100% Gluten Free
  Italian, vegetarian, and fully gluten-free. They focus on the good stuff without the gluten baggage.
• Agriturismo La Kustera
  Sardinian. Mediterranean. Authentic. La Kustera sticks to roots, serving local flavors without the frills.
• Mint Julep Cocktail & Pizza Gurmè
  Thin crusts, wild toppings. Cocktails that blend, not clash. Mint Julep plays no games.

🍝 Eat With a Sardinian Local!

Sardinia's a magnet for Italian food fans. 🟢 Eatwith is your key. They're kings of real-deal eats. Picture this: homemade Italian, right from a local's stove.

Eatwith's got reach, 130 spots, including Sardinia. They're choosy, hunting for diversity and richness. Skill level? Irrelevant. Hosts run from kitchen newbies to Michelin dazzlers. But, passion's the common thread. Dive into Sardinia's scene. It's nourishment for both soul and palate. Buon appetito!

🏨 Hotels Olbia Sardinia

Looking for a hotel room in Olbia? You've got plenty of choices! We suggest hitting up 🟢 Booking.com to snag the best deals. There, you can compare prices, dive into real reviews, and peek at actual photos. Plus, for an easy peasy search experience, just use the browser below. Happy hunting!

You might want to check out a couple of hotels we've stayed at in Olbia and really liked. Here's a quick rundown on them:

Doubletree by Hilton Olbia Sardinia

🟢 DoubleTree by Hilton in Olbia-Sardinia throws in a free pool and a view of the harbor. It's a brisk 10-minute walk from the heart of Olbia, perfect for city explorers. Guests get free gym and parking. No fuss about staying fit or finding a spot for your ride.

• Rooms pack air conditioning, HD TVs with premium channels, and free tea and coffee. Tilibbas Restaurant dishes out Italian meals, poolside or indoors. Choose your breakfast style and hit Flamingos Bar for a drink with Sky TV on.
• Situated in the industrial zone, it's a short drive from Pevero Golf Club and the Emerald Coast. Olbia Airport? Just 10 minutes away.
• Reviewers dig the rooms' comfort, space, and cleanliness. Breakfast scores high marks. The pool and staff charm guests. Yet, its spot, while great for airport and industrial access, might not suit beach bums or those craving a stroll in Olbia.

Hotel DP Olbia Sardinia

🟢 Hotel DP Olbia Sardinia sits in Sardinia's guts, a stone's throw from Olbia's sands. It's a quiet haven, far from city screams, perfect for peace seekers. Three clicks from Olbia, eight from Costa Smeralda airport, and one from Pittulongu beach. Easy in, easy out, with local gems nearby.

It's stacked with perks for a smooth stay. Think restaurant, pool, free net, AC, minibar, round-the-clock front desk, and a spot to iron your shirts. Beach shuttle? Got that too. Rooms stretch over four floors, decked out Mediterranean-style, packing all you need. Views of the Gulf of Olbia? Check.

Guests rave about the facilities, the clean, the comfy, and bang for buck. "Very Good" nods across the board, with kudos to the staff. Refreshed in 2021, the hotel's a hop from the beach and key spots like Pittulongu Beach and Olbia's port. Breakfast buffet, poolside bar, and a terrace are on the house.

The Gulf of Olbia's a playground of top-tier beaches and coves, Pittulongu leading the pack. It's a hit with Olbia locals, kid-friendly with shallow waters. Fully loaded with free parking, rentals for shades and loungers, and easy access for all.

Picking Hotel DP Olbia Sardinia? Expect a mix of luxe, comfort, and prime location for a standout Sardinia holiday.

🏘️ Bed and Breakfast Olbia Sardinia

Olbia's got a cool mix of B&Bs that'll catch your eye. Take the City Garden Guest House – it's smack in the middle of the city but feels like a quiet garden retreat. The rooms? They've got this cool, shabby chic vibe but don’t skimp on the modern stuff: think aircon, flat-screens, private bathrooms, and those little free toiletries that everyone loves. Plus, some rooms have terraces with views that’ll make you want to stay in all day. And location-wise, you're just a quick skip away from downtown, the airport, and all the best beaches.

People can't stop talking about Carpe Diem B&B – it's got rave reviews for being super close to everything you need, plus the beach. Then there’s B&B Kenzia, where the breakfast is amazing and the staff can't do enough for you. Olbia's also your gateway to awesome beaches like Pittulongu and loads of cool cultural spots and activities.

Whether you're into the rustic charm of places like B&B Pubulos or the more polished feel of Antares in the city center, Olbia's got you covered. You're looking at a range from homey to luxury, with all the perks like free Wi-Fi, parking, and some pretty great views thrown in. Basically, Olbia’s got something perfect for your trip to Sardinia.

🛍️ Shopping in Olbia Sardinia

Olbia's got a bit of everything for shoppers. Check out these go-to places:

• Centro Commerciale Terranova - This place has it all: fashion, food, a big supermarket, cafes, and even jewelry stores. Plus, it's super clean, with plenty of toilets and loads of parking space.
• Mercato Porto Romano - Imagine a lively market where you can stumble upon some really unique finds alongside the usual stuff. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely hunt for treasures.
• Artport Gallery - Art lovers, this one's for you. They've got a fantastic selection of art, adding a dash of culture to your shopping spree.
• Spirits Boutique - If you're into drinks, this is your paradise. They offer a great variety and have a cozy terrace where you can enjoy tastings.
• Galleria Auchan - It's huge and has everything you might need, from specialty shops and places to eat to a massive supermarket on the lower level.
• Sandali Amalia - On the lookout for genuine Sardinian sandals? This shop is known for its beautifully handmade, highly praised sandals.

🏖️ Olbia Sardinia Beaches

Olbia's beaches really stand out, each with its own character. Let's dive in:

• Porto Istana: A dream spot for snorkeling enthusiasts, teeming with colorful fish. Just a short drive from Olbia, you can rent all the beach gear you need, take out a kayak, or relax at one of the nearby snack bars.
• Doctor’s Beach: The clear waters, pink rocks, and surrounding scrub make this secluded beach a little slice of paradise. Remember, there aren't any shops around, so bring what you need.
• Porto Taverna: Famous for its stunning white sand and clear blue waters, this beach is a favorite for families and surfers alike. With plenty of options for gear rental and snacks, you're all set for a great day out.
• Cala Moresca: Offers breathtaking views with its pristine white sands and emerald green waters, nestled on the Golfo Aranci. It's all about untouched nature here, so pack accordingly.
• Spalmatore Beach: This gem on Tavolara Island features endless stretches of white sand. Accessible by ferry from Porto San Paolo, it's a back-to-basics kind of beach, focusing purely on natural beauty.

And more beach choices!

• Cala Brandinchi: Often called "Little Tahiti" because of its white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's an ideal spot for families, but keep in mind that entry is limited, so plan ahead. They've got bars and rental gear ready for you.
• Lu Impostu: Just next door to Cala Brandinchi, it boasts a lengthy stretch of sand. While entry might be limited, they've got everything you need for a day at the beach, from gear to refreshments.
• La Cinta: Close to San Teodoro, this beach is alive with fish and backed by a lagoon where flamingos roam. You'll find all the amenities you need for a comfortable visit.
• Le Saline: Its reddish sand attracts surfers and sailing buffs. A quick trip from Olbia gets you there, with free parking and easy beach access.
• Isuledda: Perfect for kids with its shallow, calm waters and stunning hues ranging from emerald green to turquoise and blue. Plenty of services are available to make your visit hassle-free.

🌡️ Olbia Sardinia Weather

Olbia, Sardinia, slings Mediterranean vibes with hot summers and chill winters. It's a solid pick, year-round.

Seasonal Weather Overview

⛅ Winter (December to February): Mild. 49°F to 59°F. December's the peak. Quiet. Perfect for peace seekers.
🌱 Spring (March to May): Warms up. March hits 61°F, May about 64°F. Days stretch. Nine hours of sun in May. Good for outdoor types.
🌞 Summer (June to September): Tourist magnet, especially July, August. Hits 81°F. Sea's warm in August, 77°F. Prime time, but crowded and pricey. Ferragosto spikes it.
🍂 Fall (October to November): Cools down. 65°F to 54°F. Tourists dip. Nature shines.

Rainfall and Sea Temperature

Rain's a mixed bag. November's wet. July's dry, beach-perfect. Sea's best in August, warm at 77°F. Stays nice June to September.

Best Time to Visit

May to September for the sun and sea heat. April, May, October for cooler, less crowded vibes. Cheaper too.

Tips for Visiting

Summer's slammed. Book early for July, August. Better rates, less hassle.
Shoulder Seasons (April, May, October) hit the sweet spot. Mild weather, fewer tourists. Sardinia's beauty without the bustle.

❓FAQs

Got questions about Olbia, Sardinia? You're not alone, and we've got you covered. Check out the answers to some of the top questions about this stunning destination:

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Olbia, Sardinia is just your gateway to Italy's endless charm. Dive into more discoveries with these reads. 'Buon Viaggio'!