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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Olbia.
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Olbia is a treasure trove of enchanting experiences waiting to be uncovered, like a secret garden waiting to be explored.
From the pristine beaches to the vibrant markets and bustling bars, this coastal gem offers a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and tastes.
So come, let us embark on a journey of discovery through Olbia’s vibrant streets and meandering alleyways.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Olbia:
1. Porto Rotondo
A luxury resort town located on the northeastern coast of the island of Sardinia, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the pristine beaches with crystal-clear water. Visit the Piazzetta San Marco, the main square of Porto Rotondo, for dining and shopping.
Take a boat trip to explore the town’s stunning coastline. Attend the annual Smeralda 888 regatta event, which takes place every September.
Don’t miss: Take a swim or a waterfront stroll on Ira Beach. Visit the Church of San Lorenzo, a beautiful church that overlooks the marina.
Go for a hike to the Punta Volpe peninsula to admire the breathtaking views of the coastline.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a fan of seafood, try Ristorante Il Pomodoro for delicious seafood dishes. Renting a boat can get quite expensive, so it’s recommended to book in advance.
The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is sunny and warm.
2. San Pantaleo
San Pantaleo is a quaint village situated in the northeast of Sardinia, Italy. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique architecture.
What to see or do: Visit the weekly market on Thursdays to shop for handmade crafts, pottery, and local produce.
Don’t miss: The stunning Chiesa di San Pantaleo, a 19th-century church that towers over the village and provides a great panoramic view of the town.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the summer months to take advantage of the town’s many outdoor events, including music festivals and food fairs.
3. Basilica di San Simplicio
Basilica di San Simplicio is a historic church located in the city of Olbia, on the island of Sardinia, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the basilica’s stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. The church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture and features intricate carvings and elegant columns.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the basilica’s impressive apse, which is adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Jesus.
In addition, the church’s crypt is worth a visit and is home to the remains of several early Christian martyrs.
Insider travel tips: – The basilica is located just a short walk from the center of Olbia, so it is easy to combine a visit with a stroll around the city.
4. Isola Tavolara
Isola Tavolara is a small island located off the northeast coast of Sardinia, Italy.
What to see or do: – Enjoy the stunning beaches with crystal clear waters, such as Spiaggia Spalmatore and Cala Finanza.
Don’t miss: – The historic and mysterious Tavolara Palace, rumored to be an ancient Roman or even Phoenician settlement.
Insider travel tips: – Isola Tavolara is a popular tourist destination, so book accommodations and tours in advance.
5. Pittulongu
A tranquil village located on the coast of Olbia, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Enjoy the white sand beaches and clear blue waters, take a boat tour, explore the local shops and restaurants.
Don’t miss: The annual Fish Festival held in August, the 16th-century church of Santa Maria di Pittulongu.
Insider travel tips: Rent a car to explore the surrounding areas, try the local seafood dishes, and take a day trip to the nearby island of Tavolara.
6. Archaeological Museum of Olbia
The Archaeological Museum of Olbia is a museum dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Greek city of Olbia, located on the Black Sea coast of modern-day Ukraine.
What to see or do: The museum features exhibits with a range of artifacts, including pottery, sculptural works, and coins.
Visitors can explore the museum’s four main sections, which are dedicated to ancient Olbian society, its economy, religion, and everyday life.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the Charioteer of Delphi, a stunning bronze statue that is believed to have been created in Greece in the 5th century BCE.
Insider travel tips: If you have an interest in ancient history, the Archaeological Museum of Olbia is definitely worth a visit.
Be sure to bring a guidebook or tour guide to help you make the most of your visit, as the museum’s exhibits can be quite complex and challenging to interpret without some context.
Also, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the museum can be quite large and require a fair amount of walking to explore fully.
7. Nuraghe Riu Mulinu
A well-preserved Nuraghe, an ancient Sardinian stone structure.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive remains of Nuraghe Riu Mulinu, including its central tower, surrounding structures, and defensive walls. Admire the intricate stonework and imagine what life was like for the Nuragic people who built it.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the tower. Be sure to bring a camera and snap some photos of the beautiful scenery.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the site, as some areas may be uneven or rocky. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Nuraghe.
Plan your visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience.
8. Spiaggia di Porto Istana
Spiaggia di Porto Istana is a stunning beach located in Olbia, Sardinia, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy crystal-clear waters and fine white sand on this beautiful beach.
The beach is surrounded by stunning Mediterranean vegetation, and it offers a great opportunity to relax and soak up the sun.
Swimming and snorkeling are popular activities due to the calm and clear waters.
Don’t miss: Take a walk along the beach to enjoy the views of the island of Tavolara, one of the symbols of Sardinia.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds. It is also possible to rent boats and go on snorkeling excursions to explore the nearby marine life.
There are a few beach bars and restaurants on the beach, however, it’s recommended to bring a picnic to enjoy the beach to its fullest.
9. Basilica di San Simplicio
Basilica di San Simplicio is a historic church located in the city of Olbia, Sardinia. It is one of the most notable examples of Romanesque architecture on the island.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate design and architecture of the church, including its beautiful rose window and impressive bell tower. The interior of the basilica is decorated with frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the intricate details on the façade of the basilica, which includes images of animals and other figures from the Bible.
Insider travel tips: Keep in mind that the basilica is closed on Mondays and may have limited hours on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Also, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this important Sardinian landmark.
10. Spiaggia di Bados
Spiaggia di Bados is a stunning beach located near the town of Olbia, on the northeast coast of Sardinia.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax on the fine white sand, swim in the crystal clear waters, and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and paddle-boarding.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a walk along the beach at sunset, as the colors of the sky and the sea create a breathtaking sight.
Insider travel tips: Try to arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot on the beach, as it can get quite busy during peak season.
Also, be sure to bring water and sunscreen, as there are limited facilities nearby.
11. Sacred Well of Sa Testa
The Sacred Well of Sa Testa is a prehistoric sacred site located in Olbia, Sardinia, dating back to the Bronze Age.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe the well’s impressive structure, which is over 17 meters deep. The surrounding areas have several ancient remnants including carved rocks, stone coffins, and menhirs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo of the unique mosaics located inside the well’s chamber.
Insider travel tips: For a truly awe-inspiring experience, visit the well during the summer solstice when the emerging sun casts a beam of light into the well’s chamber.
Also, bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for a steep climb down to the well.
12. Spiaggia di Mare e Rocce
Spiaggia di Mare e Rocce is a picturesque beach located in Olbia, Sardinia.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day of sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is also great for snorkeling and exploring the nearby rock formations.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll along the shoreline and admire the stunning views of the coastline, or venture out onto the rocks for a unique perspective of the beach.
Insider travel tips: – Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on the beach.
13. Punta Molara
A beautiful secluded beach located in the northeastern coast of Sardinia.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal-clear water and soft white sand of the beach, take a refreshing swim or sunbathe in peace, and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
Don’t miss: Strolling along the shore, taking in the natural beauty of the area, and exploring the rocky formations that add character to the beach.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and some refreshments, as there are no facilities on the beach.
Also, keep in mind that the road leading to the beach can be quite narrow and winding, so drive with caution.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and to secure a parking spot.
14. Spiaggia di Cala Moresca
Cala Moresca Beach is an unspoiled hidden gem located in the vicinity of Olbia, Sardinia.
What to see or do: The beach is perfect for those seeking a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere.
Visitors can relax on the pristine white sand, swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and soak up the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
It’s a great spot for snorkeling too.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the scenic coastal trail leading to the beach – it’s a beautiful hike with panoramic views. Sunset at Cala Moresca is unforgettable too, so be sure to stay until the end of the day.
Insider travel tips: -There are no facilities on the beach, so make sure to bring your own snacks, drinks, and parasol.