Why rent a car in Olbia?
Olbia is one of the main gateways to northern Sardinia and the famous Costa Smeralda. With a rental car, you can easily reach beautiful beaches such as Pittulongu, Porto Istana, and Capriccioli, as well as charming coastal towns like Porto Cervo and San Pantaleo.
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and discover hidden coves and scenic viewpoints. Start planning your trip by exploring car rental options across Sardinia.
Exploring northern Sardinia by car from Olbia
Routes and highlights from Olbia
Olbia is the main gateway to northern Sardinia and the starting point for exploring the Costa Smeralda, one of the most celebrated coastlines in the Mediterranean. The resort of Porto Cervo is approximately 30 km north via the SP94 and is the centrepiece of the Costa Smeralda with its turquoise coves and luxury marina. The Arcipelago della Maddalena, a national park of granite islands in the Strait of Bonifacio, is accessible by ferry from Palau, about 40 km north of Olbia. The Gallura interior, with its cork oak forests and dramatic granite rock formations, is within easy reach south and west of the city. The nuraghe of Arzachena, just 25 km north, are among the most accessible prehistoric monuments in Sardinia. For a longer drive, the town of Nuoro in the Barbagia highland region is approximately 90 km southwest and is a good base for exploring central Sardinia. For more destinations, see car rental in Sardinia and car rental in Italy.
Driving and parking in Olbia
Olbia city centre is compact and easy to navigate. Parking is available near the port and the main shopping streets. Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (IATA: OLB) is located just 4 km southeast of the city centre, making it one of the most centrally positioned airports in Sardinia. Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall with vehicles collected in the rental area outside. From the airport, the SS125 road connects south toward Nuoro and the east coast, while the SP94 runs north toward the Costa Smeralda.
Best time to rent a car in Olbia
May, June and September are the best months for exploring northern Sardinia by car. The Costa Smeralda is at its busiest in July and August, when parking near popular beaches is very competitive and roads to the main coves can be congested. Spring offers green Gallura hillsides and very light traffic. Autumn is warm and peaceful, with the sea still suitable for swimming through to October.
Car rental price in Olbia
The table below shows the lowest all-inclusive weekly rate for renting a car in Olbia, with full insurance and zero excess included. What you actually pay depends on the supplier, availability and how far ahead you book. Check the current price in the search above.
| Car type | From, 7 days |
|---|---|
| Small car (economy) | from €303 |
| Mid-size car | from €368 |
| Large car / SUV | from €460 |
Measured at 23 airports in September 2026, for a 7-day rental starting 10–17 October 2026. All-inclusive, zero excess, no credit card required. Prices vary by supplier, availability and how far ahead you book.
These prices typically include full insurance and zero excess when booking an all-inclusive rental. Prices can vary significantly between providers. If you want to avoid hidden costs, it’s worth taking a moment to compare car rental companies and rental conditions before booking. At MarSoleil, you can also find options without a credit card and no deposit.
