Car Hire Olbia - Mini guide to Olbia

The Sardinian port town of Olbia, which means “happy town”, has enjoyed steady economic progress since the sixties. With its historical sights and international airport, it has become the most important port town in northeastern Italy.

Olbia’s narrow streets are easily navigated and pedestrian-friendly. Start anywhere in the old town and you’ll see an abundance of open-air cafes and bars that are awash with tourists and sailors having a good time.

When in Olbia, a must see is the ex cathedral of the city, located in the charming old town and dedicated to Saint Simplicio, a bishop of Olbia from the 3rd century BC. Also of interest are the 24 shipwrecks, two of them from the age of Nero and at least 16 from the fifth century. A further six come from from the Judicial period.

There are plenty of attractive restaurants in Olbia to suit all budgets. The elegant Zhanto, just off the Corso, on Via delle Terme, offers quality food, and is a favourite with the locals. For the quintessential pizza, head to La Lanterna, off the other side of the Corso on Via Olbia.

If you feel like exploring the local area, a few kilometres from Olbia you’ll find the Castle of Pedres (Castello di Pedes). The architectural design comes from the Judicial period of Visconti in Gallura. Another fabulous monument is the Byzantine Castello di Sa Paulazza, located on a nearby hill.

Olbia International Airport is situated 11 miles south of the city and transportation is easily arranged to and from the airport. Buses run half-hourly to the airport from Piazza Regina Margherita. Olbia’s train station, just off Corso Umberto, is reachable from most major cities in Italy.