Olbia

Located in the picturesque northeast of Sardinia, Olbia serves as the main gateway to the famous Emerald Coast and is not merely a transit point, but a distinctive city with a rich history. When planning how to get to Olbia, travellers can choose the most convenient route: the city boasts its own international airport, a major seaport, and railway connections to other parts of the island. Whether you arrive by plane or by car, your journey here will be a vibrant start to your acquaintance with Italy.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Sardinia is by air. The city is served by Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), which welcomes over 3,200,000 passengers annually and is conveniently located near the resort areas. This modern aviation hub is well-connected to the city, making it the priority choice for most tourists.

If direct flights are unavailable, you might consider flying into neighbouring cities, such as Alghero (107 km). There are also options to arrive on the neighbouring island of Corsica at the airports of Figari or Ajaccio, although this route will require complex logistics involving a ferry crossing.

Contrary to outdated information, Olbia is integrated into Sardinia's railway network, and a train journey can become a scenic part of your trip. The railway station is located near the city centre and connects it with key points on the island, such as Sassari and Cagliari.

If you are arriving from other regions, for instance via Alghero, the train is an excellent way to enjoy views of the local nature. However, for routes from the Corsica side (via Figari or Ajaccio), rail transport is not relevant due to the necessity of a sea crossing.

Bus services allow you to reach Olbia from other interesting locations while enjoying the views along the way. One of the most popular routes is the trip from the city of Alghero: the bus covers the distance of 163 km in approximately 3.5 hours, making this a convenient and relatively fast option for tourists.

For those planning a complex itinerary from other regions, there is a possibility to arrive from the direction of Figari. Although the distance is about 103 km, the travel time can reach 12.9 hours due to the need for a ferry crossing and transfers. This journey suits those who are in no rush and wish to see more diverse landscapes.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement but requires attention to logistics, especially when travelling from neighbouring islands. The drive from Alghero to Olbia is a comfortable route of 136 km, which will take only about 1.5 hours along a scenic highway.

If you are setting off from the Corsica side, for example from Figari (97 km journey) or Ajaccio (209 km), be sure to account for the time for the ferry crossing between Bonifacio and Santa Teresa Gallura. Excluding the wait for the ferry, the net travel time will be approximately 2.7 hours and 4.8 hours respectively, but in reality, the journey will take longer.

To ensure your trip to Olbia is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared several important recommendations. This sunny corner of Italy has its own specific features that are useful to know in advance.

1. Clothing and Climate. It is hot here in summer, so pack light clothing made of natural fabrics, a hat, and sunglasses. However, evenings can be breezy, so a light windbreaker or cardigan will be useful even in the warm season.
2. Transport. Although the city has buses and trains, to fully explore the surrounding beaches of the Costa Smeralda, it is highly recommended to rent a car.
3. Finances. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, but always carry cash for small purchases at kiosks or markets.
4. Siesta. Remember the traditional mid-day break. Many shops and establishments may close for lunch from 13:00 to 16:00. Plan your shopping and important errands for the morning or evening.
5. Communication. In tourist areas, staff speak English, but learning a couple of phrases in Italian (for example, "Buongiorno" and "Grazie") will earn you special appreciation from the locals.
6. Beach Etiquette. Strict rules apply on many beaches in Sardinia: it is strictly forbidden to take sand, shells, or stones as souvenirs — huge fines are imposed for this.
7. Safety. Olbia is a safe city, but as everywhere, you should keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places and not leave valuables in plain sight in your car.
8. Gastronomy. Be sure to try the local mussels (cozze), for which the region is famous. It is best to order them in simple trattorias near the port.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Italian hospitality and the beauty of Sardinian nature.