Visit Olbia Italy: Best Beaches and Attractions to Do

Visit Olbia and discover one of Sardinia’s most exciting coastal hubs. Located in the island’s northeast, Olbia is more than just a stopover for Costa Smeralda, it’s a destination in its own right. From exploring Nuragic ruins to sailing around secret coves, this guide covers all the top things to do for travelers aged 28 to 50 looking for real, memorable experiences. Whether you’re here to unwind on the sand, dive into local food spots, or enjoy wine tasting and wineries in Sardinia, Olbia serves up the perfect mix of seaside charm, culture, and flavor.

Visit Olbia and the best things to do

Explore the historic center

Start your visit to Olbia with a walk through its lively old town, where narrow cobblestone streets and colorful facades invite you to slow down and take it all in. At the heart of it is Piazza Regina Margherita, a buzzing square surrounded by cafés, gelaterias, and restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to classic Sardinian dishes. It’s the perfect base if you’re planning to stay in town and want to feel part of the local scene.

Experience Olbia by night

Once the sun dips below the horizon, Olbia by night transforms into a lively hub where locals and travelers gather to enjoy the best of Sardinian evenings. Start with a sunset stroll along Corso Umberto I, the city’s main street, lined with wine bars, gelaterias, and open-air cafés. Head toward Piazza Regina Margherita to catch live music or sip a cocktail with views of the softly lit harbor.

Visit the Basilica of San Simplicio

Step just outside the center of Olbia and you’ll find the Basilica of San Simplicio, a granite masterpiece that’s stood since the 11th century. Built during the shift from Roman to Byzantine rule, this church is one of the island’s most important religious sites, and easily one of the most beautiful. Its understated façade hides centuries of history, including ancient frescoes and Roman tombs beneath the floor.

Heads up to St. Paul Apostle Church

Tucked in the heart of Olbia’s old town, St. Paul Apostle Church is hard to miss, especially thanks to its colorful majolica-tiled dome gleaming in the sunlight. Built over ancient foundations and rebuilt in the 18th century, this granite church is a peaceful stop during your city stroll. Step inside to admire its bright interiors and simple, elegant design that reflects Sardinia’s understated religious architecture.

Explore Cala Brandinchi

Cala Brandinchi is often dubbed “Little Tahiti” for good reason. With powdery white sand and shallow, crystal-clear water, it’s one of Sardinia’s most photogenic beaches, and easily one of the best day trips from Olbia. While it’s no secret in peak summer (July and August can be packed), visit early in the day or off-season for a slice of beach paradise all to yourself.

Sunbathe at Porto Istana beach

Craving a quieter beach near Olbia for a laid-back afternoon? Porto Istana is a fantastic pick. Just 20 minutes from town, this sandy stretch offers calm, shallow waters perfect for a dip, especially if you’re visiting with kids or just want a peaceful swim. The real showstopper? The view of Tavolara and Molara islands rising from the sea like giant stone ships. After your swim, grab a table at one of the nearby restaurants and treat yourself to a fresh seafood lunch paired with local Sardinian wine.

Catch the sunset at Rena Bianca beach

Tucked away in Santa Teresa Gallura, Rena Bianca is the kind of beach that turns casual visitors into lifelong Sardinia fans. With powdery white sand and shallow, turquoise water, it’s perfect for a refreshing dip after a morning of sightseeing or ferry-hopping. Framed by pink granite rocks and views of Corsica on clear days, it’s wildly photogenic, so don’t forget your camera.

Visit Olbia and the best things to do around

Wander through San Teodoro’s beaches

Just 30 minutes south of Olbia, San Teodoro is where beach life meets buzz. Famous for La Cinta Beach, with its long stretch of white sand and surreal turquoise water, this coastal town is a must for anyone chasing sun, sea, and a little Sardinian flair. Spend the day snorkeling in clear shallows or lounging with views of Tavolara Island, then stick around for the lively summer nightlife, think beachside aperitivi and open-air bars that go late. While public transport can get you there, renting a car is your best bet if you’re planning to beach-hop or head inland for more off-the-radar spots.

Explore the glamour of Costa Smeralda

If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean luxury, visit Costa Smeralda Italy, an iconic slice of Sardinia known for its emerald waters, chic resorts, and VIP marina scene. Just under an hour’s drive from Olbia, this legendary coastline is home to picture-perfect beaches like Liscia Ruja and Spiaggia del Principe, plus high-end restaurants, designer shops, and celebrity-approved clubs.

Drive to Porto Cervo

40 minutes from Olbia, Porto Cervo is Costa Smeralda’s glitziest spot, where luxury yachts gleam in the marina and designer stores line sun-drenched piazzas. But you don’t need an A-list budget to enjoy it. Come for a scenic stroll along the harbor, grab a spritz with a sea view, and soak up the glam Mediterranean vibes. Between the elegant Aragonese-style buildings, upscale art galleries, and golden beaches nearby, Porto Cervo is one of the most memorable day trips from Olbia.

Explore the Maddalena Archipelago

50 minutes north of Olbia, hop on a ferry and visit La Maddalena Italy, a must for anyone craving turquoise waters and island vibes. The Maddalena Archipelago is a protected national park and one of Sardinia’s most jaw-dropping natural escapes. Expect dreamlike beaches, secret coves, and even WWII shipwreck sites if you’re into diving. Wander the village of La Maddalena itself, where pastel buildings hide seafood trattorias, gelato shops, and laid-back boutiques. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Olbia, especially in summer, so plan ahead and bring your swimsuit.

Good to Know before visiting Olbia, Italy