Olbia is a coastal city in northeastern Sardinia and a gateway to the island’s famous Costa Smeralda. Its relaxed waterfront setting is complemented by a historic center of narrow streets, small squares, cafés, and traditional Sardinian restaurants. The Basilica of San Simplicio, built from local granite, is one of the city’s most notable historic landmarks.

The surrounding coastline is where Olbia truly opens up, with sheltered bays, clear turquoise water, and beaches backed by Mediterranean vegetation. Nearby Porto Cervo is known for its marina and upscale atmosphere, while the beaches of San Teodoro and the islands of Tavolara and Molara offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips. Sardinian cuisine features prominently throughout the area, with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, pecorino cheese, and local wines. Olbia also makes an excellent starting point for a road trip through northeastern Sardinia, where small villages, archaeological sites, and rugged coastal landscapes can be found beyond the main resorts.