Olbia (Sardinia) / Italy

Olbia is located in the northeast of the Italian island of Sardinia and is the capital of the province of Gallura. In recent years, it has undergone a very rapid development, mainly due to the large influx of foreign tourists. This fact has influenced the economy of the entire island, and Olbia is now considered a city of the future. There is also a modern airport and a busy port used by cruise ships sailing the Mediterranean Sea.

What to taste in Olbia?

Local gastronomy focuses on Sardinian cuisine, offering a wide range of tasty dishes such as:

• Carassau – local bread served with almost every meal.
• Sabadas – ravioli with a filling of fresh ricotta, drizzled with hot honey.
• Pecorino Sardo – traditional aged sheep cheese.
• Mirtho – a popular myrtle liqueur.
• Cannonau di Sardegna – the most famous red wine.

Why will you love Olbia?

This picturesque town lies in a bay that is the gateway to the renowned Costa Smeralda – Emerald Coast. It is sought after not only for its white sandy beaches but also for its unique surrounding nature. It owes its name to the unusual color of the crystal-clear sea with shades of green and turquoise. The area is frequented by the wealthy and celebrities from around the world, and therefore there are many luxury hotels and villas, marinas, and golf courses. 

Practical tips:

• Official language: Italian, but in tourist areas, you can also communicate in English
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Opening hours in Sardinia generally: Monday – Saturday usually from 9:00 to 13:00 and then from 16:30 to 20:00. Shopping centers and supermarkets often open from 9:00 to 21:00. In tourist areas and during the main season (June-September), shops are often open on Sundays and have extended evening hours. 
• Public transport: In Olbia, it is provided by buses (ARST company) and trains, connecting the city with other regions of Sardinia. From the port, you can use a shuttle bus to the center 2 km away, which runs every 10 minutes and the journey also takes approximately 10 minutes.
• Weather: Olbia has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild and humid winters (averaging 10 – 15 °C) and hot sunny summers (exceeding 30 °C). The main tourist season is from May to September.

What to visit in Olbia?

• Coddu Vecchiu - “Tomb of the Giants” – one of the most famous archaeological sites, a necropolis dating back to the Bronze Age during the Nuragic civilization.
• Basilica of San Simplicio – built in the 11th century, surrounded by beautiful gardens, it is the oldest and most important sacred monument in Olbia.
• National Archaeological Museum – located on the island of Peddone, in front of the old port. The exhibits present the history of the city and the port, with an emphasis on the Phoenician, Greek, Punic, and Roman periods. You can see ancient cargo shipwrecks or a medieval ship here. 
• Porto Cervo – an exclusive seaside resort, a symbol of luxury, picturesque nature, and unforgettable atmosphere.
• Baia Sardinia – is one of the most famous resorts on the Emerald Coast (Costa Smeralda) with a beach with crystal-clear water and fine sand.
• Nuraghe la Prisgiona – another Nuragic archaeological site in the Capichera valley.

The most interesting from the history of Olbia:

It is not entirely clear who was responsible for founding the city. Some historical sources state that it was the mythological figure Iolao or Greek settlers from Marseille. However, the most likely founders were the Punic tribes, who were active here between the 6th and 4th centuries BC. During the Roman period, Olbia experienced great prosperity and became an important trading center. Then the city went through a period of decline and was subsequently chosen as the capital by the lords of Gallura. The medieval city was called Civita or Terranova. It regained its original Greek name only in 1939.

Useful information

• How to choose the right cruise?
• How to choose a cruise company?