Olbia is a proper port town, with a sparkling harbour that connects it with many other ports on Sardinia and beyond. But it would be a shame to just pass through, Olbia is historic and beautiful, with an elegant, palm tree-lined waterfront, a wonderfully rambling historic centre, and numerous idyllic piazzas lined with cafes, bars and restaurants. Some of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Olbia are in the historic centre, graceful villas and palazzos converted into B&Bs or traditional hotels. Olbia is also the gateway to the North East Coast's show-stopping, pearly-white beaches, and we've found some charming hotels just outside town, along the coast, right up against Sardinia’s most idyllic beaches, or in the lush, rural hinterland.
It was the Aga Khan who created the Costa Smeralda, by spending millions building luxurious hotels and resorts along the gorgeous stretch of coast. And it still has a reputation for being expensive, but our Gurus advise you to overlook that reputation, because there are plenty of great value options in Olbia, and accommodation that’s perfectly suited to a family beach break, as well as a perfect honeymoon. Olbia is also a good place to stay for access to the Supramonte Mountains and their spectacular walking trails, and it overlooks the gulf where the Tavolara and Molara Islands nestle.
Before the Aga Khan, Olbia was a picturesque fishing port surrounded by hills and the delicious scent of wild herbs. Walking around the old town you can still get a sense of that, especially along the Corse Umberto. The Town Hall, numerous churches, and Archaeological Museum are all worth seeing for yourself — Sardinia has numerous archaeological sites, and there’s a really excellent collection of items in Olbia’s museum. Arguably the coastline around Olbia is prettier than the town itself. The fertile hinterland is what made this area so attractive to the Phoenicians, then Romans, then Carthaginians.
As you can imagine, this is an incredibly busy destination during the peak summer months. So if you want to guarantee your room in one of the best places to stay in Olbia in July or August, do your homework and book well ahead.
