Olbia city by the sea, Sardinian culture and calm
Visit Olbia city for a compact, approachable base that pairs clear coastal light with everyday Sardinian life, so you can balance beach time with market mornings and relaxed, walkable evenings. The town’s scale makes getting around simple, with a working waterfront, neighbourhood cafes and food stalls that showcase fresh seafood and regional produce. Regular connections and straightforward routes put a variety of beaches and coastal landscapes within easy reach, ideal for short excursions or a slower, seaside stay. Plan in shoulder seasons for mild weather and fewer crowds, and expect practical transport options, honest local hospitality and a leisurely pace that turns efficient travel into memorable days.
The Nuragic sacred well of Sa Testa, just outside Olbia, dates from the 15th to the 13th centuries BCE, and its granite steps still lead down to the underground water chamber.
Historic Olbia, Sites and Squares
Begin in Olbia’s compact historic quarter, where layers of the city are close at hand and easy to read. Explore the subterranean remains at Necropoli San Simplicio , then pause to take in the spare Roman stonework and quiet gardens of the Basilica di San Simplicio . Across from the basilica a broad public space invites slow walking and photography at Piazza San Simplicio , while a lovingly restored waterside carousel adds a touch of surprise for families, or anyone who enjoys a brief escape from the city pace. These sites sit close together, which makes a short, focused walking loop the most practical way to experience Olbia’s earliest chapters without losing time for the rest of your day.
The Tavolara, Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area was established in 1997 and safeguards about 15,000 hectares of sea along the coasts of Olbia, Loiri Porto San Paolo and San Teodoro.
Olbia Dining, Restaurants and Bars
Olbia’s compact dining scene serves everything from inventive small plates to hearty steaks, and it is easy to build an evening that fits your mood. For regional flavours and a relaxed piazza setting try Rosinita - Experience Local Food , or head for seafood and contemporary pasta at Mere Ristorante Olbia . If you want classic Sardinian hospitality, book a table at Ristorante da Paolo , while Ristorante La Lanterna Olbia Italy since 1980 offers a familiar local atmosphere. For meat lovers there is DON CARLOS , and if cocktails are your priority, the playful menus at mint julep cocktail bar, food&shop make a good late stop. These options cluster close enough for a restaurant hop, or a single relaxed evening out.
Vermentino di Gallura is Sardinia’s only DOCG wine, recognised by the region as the island’s sole DOCG denomination.
Olbia Stays and Local Services
For a practical and comfortable base consider the centrally located B&B La Casa di Pier , which pairs homemade breakfasts with easy access to transport, or the serene courtyard and attentive touches at B&b St joseph Olbia . When you need a moment of self-care, book time at Garra Rufa Beach , a modern beauty and wellness spot. For quick market runs or local produce pick-ups there is NaturaSì , and if the evening calls for a relaxed pint or a friendly table, drop into Red Lyon Irish Pub steak house . These options keep practical needs covered while leaving time for exploration.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is about 4 km from the city centre.