Olbia

Called by the Greeks Olbìa, ‘happy’, it is the hub of access to the island and the economic engine of Gallura.

In various corners of the city, vestiges of the past emerge. Many artifacts found in the excavations, including a treasure of nearly 900 gold coins, are kept in the Archaeological Museum, on the islet of Peddone. The Punic-Roman (later Christian) necropolis, comprising 450 tombs, has merged into the museum of the necropolis, which is located at the foot of the altar of the suggestive basilica of San Simplicio. Built between the end of the 11th and the beginning of the 12th century, it is the most important building of worship in the north-east, as well as the oldest Christian testimony on the island. You will also be struck by the baroque church of San Paolo with its iridescent majolica dome. The first evidence of man is attested from 4000-3500 BC.
The city overlooks a spectacular gulf, which protects the marine area of ​​Tavolara and gives access to the exclusive Costa Smeralda. In the immense coast of Olbia, among the myriad of turquoise coves, you will be spoiled for choice: the four splendid inlets of Porto Istana stand out, which are part of the protected area, and the Lido di Pittulongu, in particular La Playa, a favorite beach for olbiesi. Next, in sequence, you will find the beach of the Shark, the Pelican and further north, Mare e Rocce and Bados. To the north there is another long stretch of coastline: you will find white sand (or small pebbles) and crystal clear sea in Porto Rotondo, Marina di Cugnana and Portisco, in particular sa Rena Bianca. To the south, towards San Teodoro, there are the yellow-ocher beaches of Lido del Sole, Le Saline, Bunthe, Li Cuncheddi and Punta Corallina. At sea and archeology you can add the delights of the palate, do not miss the taste of Olbia mussels, washed down with Vermentino.

Attractions