Olbia Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Olbia, located in the beautiful region of Sardinia, Italy, is a city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled on the northeastern coast of the island, Olbia offers visitors a captivating mix of ancient ruins, pristine beaches, and vibrant city life.
One of the main attractions in Olbia is the historic center, where visitors can wander through charming narrow streets lined with traditional houses and quaint cafes. The city's rich history is evident in the remains of the Roman walls and the Romanesque San Simplicio Basilica, a must-visit for history enthusiasts. As you explore the streets, you'll also come across elegant piazzas and small shops selling local handicrafts, giving you a taste of authentic Sardinian culture.
For those seeking a relaxing escape, Olbia boasts a number of breathtaking beaches just a short distance away. The famous Pittulongu beach, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand, is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or indulging in water sports, and let the tranquil beauty of the coastline wash over you.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Olbia's surrounding areas. Just a short drive from the city, the stunning landscapes of the Costa Smeralda await. This stretch of coastline is renowned for its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and emerald green waters, making it a paradise for hikers and photography enthusiasts alike. Take a boat tour to discover the enchanting islands of La Maddalena Archipelago, where you can wander through pristine nature reserves and marvel at the vibrant marine life.
In the evenings, Olbia comes alive with a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Indulge in traditional Sardinian cuisine at one of the many restaurants, where you can savor local specialties like suckling pig, bottarga, and pecorino cheese. After dinner, head to one of the trendy bars or clubs in the city center, where you can dance the night away to the beats of both local and international DJs.
Olbia Attractions - What to See and Explore
Olbia offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Basilica di San Simplicio, Giants' grave of Su Mont'e s'Abe, Church of San Paolo, Pozzo sacro di Sa Testa. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Olbia – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Olbia, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Sardinian Ethnographic Museum (Nuoro), Basilica di Saccargia (Codrongianos), Cattedrale di San Pietro di Sorres (Borutta).
Best Time To Visit Olbia
Learn when is the best time to travel to Olbia weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Pizza
Pizza is a savory dish of Italian origin consisting of a usually round, flattened base of leavened wheat-based dough topped with tomatoes, cheese, and often various other ingredients which...
Dish
Pasta
Pasta is the Italian designation or name given to a type of starchy noodle or dumpling food or dish typically made from grain flour, commonly wheat, mixed into a paste or dough, usually...
Food
Ravioli
Ravioli are a type of pasta comprising a filling enveloped in thin pasta dough. Usually served in broth or with a sauce, they originated as a traditional food in Italian cuisine.
Pasta
Bottarga
Bottarga is a delicacy of salted, cured fish roe, typically of the grey mullet or the bluefin tuna. The best-known version is produced around the Mediterranean; similar foods are the...
Food
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a coffee-flavoured Italian dessert. It is made of ladyfingers dipped in coffee, layered with a whipped mixture of eggs, sugar and mascarpone cheese, flavoured with cocoa.
Dessert
Sardinia