Drivers are well catered for in Olbia. You’ll find many roads in and out of the city, so you can stay in the area or venture out to explore more of the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia’s north-eastern coastline.

If you’re wanting to explore some of the city on foot, you’ll find there are several designated parking lots by the harbor, near to the historical sites, and within the bustling town.

It’s worth being aware that, as this is a popular destination for explorers, many of the main roads can become busy at peak times. So if you’re planning on traveling down routes such as the SS127, SP38 and the SS125, you may want to set off a little earlier as these can be congested.

Drive to one of the most visited monuments within the area, the Valle della Luna. Spectacular both day and night, the valley is in the north of the island, less than an hour and 20 minutes’ drive away. From Olbia, follow the main highway, the Strada Statale 125, until you reach the Liscia Culumba interchange, surrounded by hills of wild nature

Take the exit on to the SS133 and follow the winding roads to Santa Teresa Gallura. Pass the colorful buildings, and follow the signs for the Valle della Luna, just on from two emerald lagoons. Its name is driven from the peculiar color of the rocks as they shine a bright white color under the moonlight.

Take care while driving – the island’s roads tend to be full of corners, some of which are tighter than you might expect. Motorbikes are extremely popular around Olbia, so take extra care to check blind spots.

A rental car will give you the freedom to explore everything Olbia has to offer. From the impressive beaches and lively harbor to the prehistoric architecture, this is a city that will soon have you soaking up the charming Sardinian atmosphere.

Discover the sites by the waterfront

The perfect way to start your Olbia adventure is with a trip to the waterfront. Here you can explore a number of stunning monuments – including the 11^th-century Basillica of Saint Simplicio. Inside this quaint church you’ll find a statue of the city’s patron saint, as well as tall, stone archways and a small bell tower.

After you’ve taken in the cathedral, head towards the harbor. Here, you can spend hours just sitting back in one of the harbor-side restaurants and watching the large cruise ships come in to dock.

The harbor is also home to Olbia’s archaeological museum which is filled with interesting exhibits that showcase the city’s history. One of the most important exhibits in the whole museum is the relic of a Roman vessel, which was found in the old port.

Unwind on the emerald coast

When you rent a car in Olbia, you have the unique opportunity to explore the island’s beautiful emerald coast

With its rocky coves, sandy stretches and crystal-clear waters, Sardinia is home to some of the best beaches in the world. With the sun out, drive to the enticing palm beaches in the Budoni area, just 30 minutes away.  

Feel the powdery white sand underfoot, and watch the waves roll into the bay. A short drive north will see you paddling in the clear and calming waters of Cala Brandinchi. Behind the beach, clusters of pinewood trees create a leafy canopy, while out to sea, the imposing Tavolara Island rises from the waters.

Unearth the interesting Nuragic heritage

Trace the island’s ancient Nuragic civilization through the well-preserved prehistoric monuments surrounding Olbia. A 240 yard-long wall loops around the ancient, granite Riu Mulinu nuraghe, a tower that stills stands 16 feet tall.

Next, drive 10 minutes to the Sacred Well of Sa Testa. Accessed via a narrow passageway, it’s a shrine built around a spring, and is believed to date back around 3,500 years. It was used for rituals and worship, and its design is symbolic of the gateway between life and death. Important relics, such as jewelry and ancient tools, were found here, and it’s a fascinating place to visit.

Arguably the most important prehistoric site near Olbia is the fascinating 4,000-year-old Tomba Dei Giganti – Tomb of the Giants. Heavy rocks pile in the shape of the head of a bull. The 10-meter long chamber was once a burial ground, where sacred rituals took place. Artifacts from these three sites can be seen in the city’s archaeological museum.

Exploring the otherworldly sights in this beautiful area of Sardinia is made simple with car rental in Olbia.