Olbia Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Olbia, Sardinia? Our comprehensive travel guide will help you navigate the culture, food, attractions, and logistics of this Italian gem.


Introduction to Olbia

Olbia, a beautiful city in Sardinia, Italy, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travellers. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Olbia has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through our top picks of places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Olbia.

List of Places to Visit in Olbia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Olbia is steeped in history, and there are plenty of culturally significant attractions to visit. You can start by visiting some of the city’s museums, such as the Museo Archeologico Nazionale and the Museo Civico. These museums will introduce you to the history of Sardinia and Olbia, with a fascinating display of artefacts from ancient times. For history buffs, a visit to the Roman Aqueduct is a must-do.

Natural Attractions of Olbia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Olbia’s natural beauty is something that cannot be missed. With over 20 pristine beaches in the area, you can spend your day sunbathing, swimming or windsurfing. Head to the nearby La Maddalena Archipelago to marvel at its crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes or hike to Tavolara Island’s summit (Monte Cannone) to get a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Olbia

Olbia is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with plenty of trails leading through beautiful landscapes and secluded coves. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Olbia include the Ultissimo Poggio and Monte Morotiles, both of which offer stunning views of the sea and the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Olbia: Activities and Tours

Apart from the cultural and natural attractions, there are also plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained in Olbia. Hop on a boat tour to explore the city’s coastline, or create your leisurely DIY tour to discover the heart of the City. For beach lovers, there are several water sports activities to enjoy, such as snorkelling, kayaking and windsurfing. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, check out the city’s weekly markets and festivities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Olbia

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Olbia, we’ve got you covered with our suggested itinerary. We recommend starting with a few days exploring the stunning beaches and islands nearby, before moving on to the cultural and historical attractions of the city. Here are our top recommendations:

Day 1 – Arrive and Relax

Spend the day exploring Olbia’s chic marina and grabbing some delicious lunch near the water’s edge.

Day 2- Discover the Beaches

Hit up the beaches of Olbia and surrounding area! Try first Porto Istana or Marinas beach for the best beaches in Olbia.

Day 3 – Tavolara Island

Take a boat tour to hike up and get an unobstructed panoramic view of Tavolara Island.

Day 4 – La Maddalena Archipelago

Sail from Olbia’s marina to the pristine islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago. Spend your day discovering hidden coves, crystal-clear water, and cocktails after hours.

Day 5 – History and Culture

Explore Olbia’s cultural and historical landmarks, from the Museo Archeologico Nazionale to the Basilica of San Simplicio and other architectural masterpieces in Olbia.

Day 6 – Ultimate Food Experience

Take part in an authentic Italian culinary experience, either by joining a cooking class or visiting Olbia’s culinary hotspots.

Day 7 – Departure

Pack your bags and relax before heading to the airport.

Food and Drink Scene of Olbia

Must-Try Dishes

Sardinian cuisine is famous for its delicious and unique flavour, and Olbia is no different. When eating out in Olbia, don’t miss the opportunity to try the traditional dishes like Pane Carasau Bread, Mirto, Bottarga, Porceddu, and Seafood Specialties.

Local Beverages

Sardinia is known for a wide variety of local wines, including Cannonau and Vermentino, which pair perfectly with the region’s unique cuisine.

Where to Stay in Olbia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re looking for comfortable, affordable accommodation in Olbia, there are plenty of options available. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, there is something to suit every budget and preference.

What to Buy in Olbia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t forget to bring back some mementos from your trip to Olbia. From handmade ceramics and wool textiles to photographic memories, there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to choose from. We recommend that you get plenty of Mirto, olive oil, and Sardinian wine to take home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Olbia

Olbia is steeped in rich culture and customs. To blend with or respect the locals, it’s important to know their values and customs. Read up on how Olbia honours catholic traditions with religious celebrations, Artisanal heritage, and their love for their rich cultures.

Best Time to Visit Olbia

The best time to visit Olbia is during late spring or early autumn when the weather is milder and less crowded. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months (June-August) when the beaches, tourist attractions and restaurants are full and expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Olbia

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Explore the islands, outdoor adventures, cultural treasures and food scene
  • Get to know the friendly locals

Don’t:

  • Insist on speaking in English; Italian is the official language
  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Get frustrated with the pace of life; life in Olbia moves at a leisurely pace

Safety and Health

Safety in Olbia

Olbia is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. However, be mindful of your belongings and keep your passport and valuables in a secure place.

Health in Olbia

In terms of health and hygiene, Olbia has excellent medical facilities, and tap water is potable in most places. Still, it is advisable to drink bottled water as the taste, and mineral content can vary across the regions.

Getting to Olbia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Olbia

Olbia’s international airport is the closest airport to the city, with regular flights from different parts of Europe like Spain, Germany, UK, France, and other major cities within Italy.

Bus Stations Near Olbia

There are regular bus services to and from Olbia to major Italian cities, including Naples, Rome, and Florence.

Other Options

If you’re travelling from other European cities, taking the ferry could be a great option. Olbia’s port has regular ferry services to Civitavecchia, Pisa, Barcelona and some other cruise ports in Europe.

How to Get Around in Olbia

While walking and cycling are great options for exploring Olbia’s city centre, having a car rental during your stay is highly recommended. With the beautiful beaches and rugged terrain of the countryside, it’s the perfect way to discover the area. Car rental services are available from Olbia’s international airport.

Where to Go Next from Olbia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have a few extra days to spare and feel like exploring beyond Olbia, there are a few nearby destinations that are well worth a visit. We recommend heading to Alghero, Porto Cervo, and Castelsardo to explore the bustling nightlife and rich culture of these cities.

Conclusion

Olbia, a hidden gem of Sardinia, is a true delight for adventurers and history buffs alike. Its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture offer a unique and unforgettable vacation. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to pack your bags and book your trip to Olbia today. Bon Voyage!

Piazza Regina Margherita next to the Corso Umberto I Piazza Regina Margherita next to the Corso Umberto I Leaving Olbia by sea Leaving Olbia by sea View towards the port of Olbia View towards the port of Olbia Railway station Railway station Basilica di San Simplicio Basilica di San Simplicio Chiesa di San Paolo Chiesa di San Paolo Piazza Piazza "coperta" del Mercato An invitation for a drink An invitation for a drink