2025 Olbia Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

Olbia is located in the province of Sassari, in the north of Sardinia, Italy, the second largest island in the Mediterranean. The name of the city originated in Greek. It was called Olbia in Roman times, Civita in the Middle Ages, Terranova in the 1940s, and Olbia was restored after World War II. Although the name is of Greek origin, according to archaeological findings, the city of Olbia was first settled by the Nuragic or Phoenician peoples due to the presence of Greeks in the seventh century BC. It contains remains from the Nuracian era to the Roman era, when it was an important port, and in the Middle Ages, it was the capital of Galluras, one of the four independent states of Sardinia at the time. During the First Punic War, the Romans fought the Carthaginians and Sardinians near Olbia, where the Roman general Hanno was killed. Although Olbia is not a tourist city today, it is a port city for traveling to mainland Italy, with ships sailing back and forth every day. I usually like to choose a night boat and arrive early the next morning. For tourists, this saves a lot of time. And no matter what season it is, as long as it is a sunny day, you can watch the sunrise here, which may be a rare scene in your life. #italy #history #overseas travel #mediterranean #European travel #European tourism #ferry #sunrise #medieval #port #sea view

🌍Listen up, everyone! Sardinia is a magical island hidden in the Mediterranean! On one side, there's a sea so blue it glows paired with cotton candy beaches, and on the other, thousand-year-old ruins telling mysterious stories. You'd really be missing out if you don't visit in this lifetime! 📍Location: Olbia, Sardinia, Italy 🏝️Friends! Sardinia's sea is as clear as jelly! As the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, it hides milk-white beaches, emerald bays, and steep canyons. Every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy! 🌞The best time to visit is spring and summer! From April to August, the sunshine is perfect - you can jump into the jelly sea for fun or hike through canyons to chase mountain breezes. Locals flock to the beaches during their holidays, relaxing and playing in the water. The vacation atmosphere is at its peak - you'll regret not going! 🏖️【Coastal Edition】Sardinia's sea looks like it's been color-enhanced! Emerald green waters lap against milk-white beaches, lighthouses on cliffs twinkle, and you can just sit on a rock as the sea breeze lifts your skirt. Every casual photo looks like a romantic scene from a movie, and even time seems to slow down. 🏛️【Civilization Edition】Standing on the moss-covered Nuragic towers feels like touching a heartbeat from 3,000 years ago! These mysterious structures built from giant stones hide the wisdom of ancient Sardinians. With the sunset glow falling on the ruins, the weight of history pulls you straight into a time tunnel. 🌿【Hiking Edition】The trails of the Gennargentu Mountains are full of surprises! Wildflowers cover the hillsides, goats hop between rocks, and from the summit, you can see the emerald sea cutting through green mountains. When tired, just lie on the meadow and watch the clouds drift by - even breathing tastes like freedom. 🍷【Food Edition】In Sardinia, your stomach must also take a vacation! Bite into culurgiones (spinach and cheese dumplings) that burst with flavor, paired with a sip of tannic Cannonau red wine, then try a piece of freshly caught grilled octopus - so delicious your eyebrows might fall off. A true food paradise! ✨【Town Edition】The cobblestone streets of Alghero sing! Colorful houses hang lace curtains, accordion music from street performers drifts into cafes. Buy a saffron seafood paella and sit by the harbor, watching fishing boats return as the sunset turns the entire sea red. There's poetry in everyday life here. 【Diving Edition】Put on your goggles and plunge into the crystal sea! Underwater caves look like fairy tale castles, colorful fish swim past you, and occasionally you'll encounter shipwrecks covered in coral. Sunlight shines through the water in beams, turning diving into a dreamy underwater journey. 🏡【Vacation Edition】Sardinia is perfect for those who just want to relax! Glass houses on cliffs offer sea views from every window, private beaches with loungers await, and the butler brings you iced Sardinian honey lemon tea. Take a nap listening to the waves - this is what a vacation should be! 🌟【Must-Visit Edition】Sardinia compresses paradise into reality! If you want to see the sea, there are 1,800 kilometers of coastline to choose from. If you want to explore ancient ruins, 7,000 sites await your discovery. Whether you want to play wild or just relax, Sardinia can satisfy all your desires. If you don't visit in this lifetime, it will truly remain an unfulfilled wish on your travel bucket list!

📍Sardinia: The One-of-a-Kind Jellyfish Sea‼️ Here's a detailed guide for your trip to Sardinia: Pre-trip Preparations • Documents: Bring a valid passport. Obtain a visa in advance if required. • Clothing: Pack light, breathable summer clothes from May to October, with a light jacket for mornings and evenings. From November to April, bring warmer outerwear. • Other items: High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, swimming goggles, beach shoes, and any necessary medications. Transportation Guide • External transportation: Choose from four airports with direct flights to Sardinia. Cagliari Airport offers budget airlines like Ryanair. You can also take a ferry from cities on Italy's west coast, such as Genoa and Livorno. • Island transportation: Renting a car is recommended. Car rental services are available at airports and ports. A Chinese driver's license with a translation is sufficient. If you prefer not to drive, taxis are relatively convenient in southern cities like Cagliari. Recommended Attractions • Northern Region ◦ Costa Smeralda: Known for its crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and dramatic cliffs, it's one of Sardinia's most famous beaches. ◦ Pink Beach: Located on Budelli Island in the Maddalena archipelago, its pink sand is a mixture of various materials. Sailing boats are prohibited from anchoring here; access is by boat. • Northwestern Region: Features beaches, cliffs, and rocky coves. Inland, explore Romanesque churches and historical ruins, such as those in Alghero, where you can enjoy the old town scenery and sea caves. • Southern Region ◦ Cagliari: The capital city, home to historical sites like Cagliari Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis, as well as scenic spots like the Bastion of Saint Remy. ◦ Pula: Offers beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water activities. Food Recommendations • Seafood: Crab pasta, grilled sea bream, seafood salad, and more. The local seafood is fresh and delicious. • Meat: Roasted suckling pig is a specialty, marinated with local herbs and spices, resulting in crispy skin and tender meat. • Pasta: Fregola pasta, malloreddus (small gnocchi-like pasta), and other unique pasta dishes. Travel Itinerary • Five-Day Itinerary ◦ Day 1: Arrive in Cagliari, check in to your hotel, explore the city, enjoy the urban scenery, and savor local cuisine. ◦ Day 2: Join a boat trip to nearby waters to admire the Jellyfish Sea, swim, and snorkel. ◦ Day 3: Head to Pula, relax on the beach, and try water sports like surfing and windsurfing. ◦ Day 4: Visit Olbia, explore the old town, visit historical sites, and enjoy the sunset by the sea. ◦ Day 5: Go to the Costa Smeralda, stroll along the beach, participate in water activities, and prepare for your departure.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

Porto Istana Beach is a beautiful beach located in the northeast of the Italian island of Sardinia, near Olbia. The beach is famous for its fine white sand and clear blue waters, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The stunning view of the island of Tavolara, which stands out in the middle of the sea, adds to the beauty of the beach. Thanks to its shallow and calm waters, Porto Istana Beach is a great place to visit with children, and its diverse marine life makes it ideal for snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by Mediterranean plants, adding to its natural charm. There are also plenty of amenities near the beach, such as parasols, sunbeds, small bars and restaurants. Although it can be crowded during the summer, it is worth a visit for its beautiful and peaceful beach. It is also easily accessible by car from Olbia, making it a perfect short trip. 📍Porto Istana Beach #EuropeanTravel

Mere Ristorante is a restaurant in Olbia, a city on the northeastern coast of the Italian island of Sardinia. The restaurant is known for its fine dining experience, serving Sardinian and Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh local ingredients, especially seafood. Mere Ristorante is popular with locals and visitors looking for fine dining in Olbia due to its high quality dishes. In particular, the pasta with raw shrimp, a specialty of the island of Sardinia, and the aged fish were excellent! 📍Mere Ristorante Olbia Via Regina Elena, 61, 07026 Olbia SS, Italie #EuropeanTravel

this was so so beautiful 😍 the colours I'd the city and the beaches ate beyond our expectations and we were so so impressed! I would love to come again to this corner of the world and stay in this part of Sardenia. it is very very very pretty and chilled relaxing and Olbia is a great location between a few cities, live porto cerva, San Theodore and Maddalena Island.

During my recent visit to Olbia, Sardinia, I was enchanted by the natural beauty, historical charm, and vibrant local culture of this coastal town. Olbia, often seen as the gateway to the famous Costa Smeralda, is much more than just a transit point; it is a destination in its own right, with plenty to offer to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. One of the highlights of Olbia is its stunning beaches. Just a short drive from the town center, you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. Pittulongu Beach is particularly noteworthy, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the picturesque views of Tavolara Island in the distance. For those who prefer a quieter experience, Spiaggia del Pellicano offers a more tranquil setting, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. Exploring Olbia’s history is another must-do activity. The town’s archaeological museum, Museo Archeologico di Olbia, provides fascinating insights into the region’s ancient past. The museum houses artifacts from the Nuragic civilization, as well as Roman and Phoenician relics, offering a comprehensive overview of Olbia’s historical significance. Additionally, the Basilica di San Simplicio, a beautifully preserved Romanesque church dating back to the 11th century, is a testament to Olbia’s rich religious history and is well worth a visit. For those interested in shopping and dining, Corso Umberto I is the main street in Olbia and the heart of the town’s commercial and social life. The street is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. I highly recommend trying some of the local Sardinian cuisine, such as malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) or porceddu (roast suckling pig), at one of the traditional restaurants. The local wines, particularly Vermentino di Gallura, are also a treat for any wine enthusiast. One of the key aspects of visiting Olbia is its strategic location. The town is well-connected to other parts of Sardinia, making it an excellent base for exploring the island. Whether you plan to visit the luxurious resorts of Costa Smeralda, the rugged landscapes of the Gennargentu Mountains, or the ancient sites of Nuraghe La Prisgiona, Olbia provides easy access to all these attractions. Transportation in Olbia is straightforward. The town has a small but well-served airport, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, which offers flights to and from various European destinations. Renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to explore beyond the town itself, as public transportation, while available, may not be as convenient for reaching some of the more remote locations. Another important consideration is the timing of your visit. Sardinia’s peak tourist season is in the summer, particularly July and August. #myhiddengems #trip #mytravelhacks

#summerdestinations Absolute picture perfect spots - Porto istana & Spiaggia di Porto San Paolo beach in Olbia 🇮🇹. The softest beach sound and vitality of landscape is just wow! A perfect place for solitude, silence and relaxation. #spiaggiaportotaverna #portoistana #portosanpaolo #olbia #sardinia 🇮🇹

Nestled in the hills of Olbia, the Petra Segreta Resort & Spa awaits as your serene Sardinian escape 🌄. At Via Stazzu Malcusa, this boutique haven offers a blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the Mediterranean landscape, the scent of myrtle and rosemary wafting through your window 🌿. Each room, a cozy cocoon with bespoke furnishings and all the mod-cons for a comfy stay. The resort's wellness focus means you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments after a day exploring the emerald coast 🌊 or lounging by the infinity pool with a vista that stretches into eternity. Foodies, rejoice! The on-site restaurant serves up a gastronomic adventure with locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every bite is a celebration of Sardinian flavors 🍽️. Ready to lose yourself in the tranquility of Petra Segreta? It's not just a stay; it's a journey for the soul. #Olbia #OlbiaHotel #OlbiaTravel

Porto Palace is a beach located in Sardinia, Italy. This beach is famous for its white sand and clear sea water. Its beautiful location along Tavolara Beach makes it a popular destination for tourists looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday.The beach also offers stunning views of nearby Tavolara Island. Around the beach, you can also find facilities such as parking, restaurants,and other facilities for visitor comfort

#weekendgetaways Lovely beach near Olbia, from where you can take a walk to your right all the way to another small beach, where there are less people. It takes you 30 min bus ride from the city center of Olbia to get to this beach. I woul recommend to check the schedule of returning buses with a bus driver, so you don’t have to wait at the bus stop. Beautiful beach with nice sand and turquose water. I love it.

Orebia is very beautiful, with abundant water resources and many green plants, such as blue jacaranda, coral autumn begonia, short-tube hanging golden bell, and early-flowering lotus. Looking at the greenery and flowers everywhere, it will make you feel good. Moreover, Ethiopia is located on a plateau, with a sky as blue as Kunming, which is like going home for children who grew up in the Yungui Plateau. The transportation is also very safe.

Welcome to Olbia Often ignored in the mad dash to the Costa Smeralda, Olbia has more to offer than first meets the eye. Look beyond its industrial outskirts and you’ll find a fetching city with a centro storico (historic centre) crammed with boutiques, wine bars and cafe-rimmed piazzas. Olbia is a refreshingly authentic and affordable alternative to the purpose-built resorts stretching to the north and south. Located in a beautiful bay, the port, rail and air connections make it a lively city, but the beaches, the activity and commercial center also make it a thriving place that is lived in and enjoyed by its residents as well as tourists. The heart of Olbia is Piazza Regina Margherita, with its palaces and sidewalk cafes to enjoy along with Piazza Matteotti, enjoyed by the city's hip set. Corso Umberto is the main shopping street, lined with boutiques and stores, restaurants and cafes. Besides the area's beautiful beaches, there are plenty of sports to enjoy here, including horse riding, biking and hiking in the nearby hills, 4-wheel tours, and water sports like diving, sea kayaking and boating. There are boats that will take you to unspoiled islands of the Marine Protected Area or cruise along the rocky coastline. #mynovgetaway