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.
Andrea
Latina, Rome +13
I'm Andrea, I have visited over 50 countries around the world. I speak English and Spanish, and traveling has always been my way of truly understanding how places work, not just seeing them. Despite this, Italy remains the place I'm most attached to. I've always lived and worked there, and over the years I've traveled extensively throughout the country: not as a tourist, but by immersing myself in local dynamics, getting to know the people, businesses, and regions firsthand. This is precisely what makes the difference. I've built a solid network of local contacts throughout Italy: entrepreneurs, professionals, and reliable operators, people I've worked with or know directly. These aren't generic suggestions, but real connections. I love Italy because it's incredibly diverse: each area has its own identity, rules, and opportunities. It's a country that can offer so much, but only if you know how to navigate it. I've invested years learning this firsthand, and today I can guide people in a practical, direct, and effective way. In short: I don't just offer advice, but access to a proven local network and concrete knowledge of the area!
Walter
Cagliari, Olbia +3
Hi! My name is Walter, I'm 38 years old and I live in Cagliari, the capital of the beautiful island of Sardinia. My family has had Sardinian roots for many generations and, like many Italians, we are deeply attached to our hometown. Many people ask me why my name is of German origin, but you know, in Italy we love international names! Like all native Sardinians, I love my homeland and know it inside and out — its places, traditions, and customs. Over the past 20 years, many visitors have been discovering the historical, architectural, and natural beauty of my city, and I will be happy to provide you with any information you need to make your visit authentic and complete. I have a degree in Political Science and International Relations, specializing in Social Innovation and Communication, and I have been working as a tour leader here in Cagliari for four years. Before that, I worked for 15 years in the retail sector promoting Sardinia's excellent food and wine, so I can also guide you through the selection of traditional dishes and drinks. I consider myself an eclectic person because I love many things, and I want to experience those I don't know yet. I'm an athlete and practice volleyball, soccer, and running. I love traveling, eating, and enjoying life while respecting nature and people. Contact me to help you plan your trip to Sardinia — I'll be happy to provide you with any information you need. :)