Olbia
Gateway to the Costa Smeralda, with ancient Nuragic sites and a surprisingly charming old town.
About Olbia
Olbia is far more than just an airport and ferry terminal for the Costa Smeralda. This ancient city—founded by the Phoenicians and later a major Roman port—has a compact, increasingly attractive old town with the early Christian San Simplicio basilica, one of Sardinia's most important Romanesque churches. The harbour area has been revitalised with restaurants and bars, and the surrounding coastline beyond the mega-yacht marinas offers accessible beaches and excellent sailing. The real surprises are archaeological: the Nuraghe Riu Mulinu right in the city, and dozens more in the surrounding hills. Olbia is also the gateway to the wild, undeveloped Gallura interior—granite tafoni formations, cork oak forests, and authentic agriturismo.
Best Time to Visit
May to October. June and September avoid the August crush on the Costa Smeralda. Spring is ideal for archaeological sites and the inland Gallura countryside.
Local Tips
- Skip the Costa Smeralda prices.
Beautiful beaches don't have to cost a fortune. A local knows the free beaches near Olbia—Porto Istana, Pittulongu, Le Saline—that rival the Costa Smeralda without the celebrity price tags.
- Explore Nuragic sites.
The Gallura countryside is dotted with mysterious Bronze Age nuraghi. A local can guide you to the most impressive sites, including the Giant's Tomb of Sa Testa and the sacred well temple near Olbia.
- Eat at a Gallura agriturismo.
The farmhouses in the hills behind Olbia serve some of Sardinia's most authentic food—porceddu, zuppa gallurese, and seadas. A local knows which ones are the real deal versus tourist imitations.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders . The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
