Visit Olbia
Olbia is a city steeped in history and culture. A visit to the historic centre, with its narrow streets and medieval buildings, is not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the National Archaeological Museum of Olbia, which houses a vast collection of archaeological finds from the city and the surrounding area.
Things to do in Olbia
Pedres Castle
Museum Civitatense, Basilica of San Simplicio
It is the most important religious monument in north-eastern Sardinia, as well as the oldest evidence of the spread of Christianity on the island, which is celebrated every year in the heart of Olbia with a vibrant festival that honours local traditions and identity.
Examples of Romanesque architecture are rare in Gallura, yet Olbia is home to the best-preserved basilica in the whole of Sardinia. San Simplicio, built at the behest of the judges of Gallura between the late 11th and early 12th centuries, is the most imposing building in the island’s Romanesque history. Initially, in the second half of the 11th century, the apse, piers, columns and part of the walls and naves were constructed; in a second phase (the early decades of the 12th century), the roof was erected and the naves and perimeter walls were completed; finally, in the mid-12th century, the façade was erected and the roof was finished.The church, dedicated to Bishop Simplicio, who died a martyr on 15 May AD 304 during the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian, stands on a hill that once lay outside the city walls. Let us now turn to the museum that the church has preserved:
The excavation carried out in the area surrounding the Basilica of San Simplicio has uncovered around 450 Roman-era tombs dating from 200 BC to 300 AD, representing a stratification of phases of extra-urban worship and necropolises spanning the first 2,000 years of the history of the city of Olbia, from its founding by the Phoenicians right up to the Middle Ages.
This archaeological site of outstanding importance provides tangible evidence of ancient Olbia, complementing the exhibition of artefacts at the Archaeological Museum; its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is a site integrated into the modern city, which has been built over the ancient settlement and its necropolis.
Boat trips
Olbia is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, offering plenty of opportunities for boat trips. You can opt for a tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago, a group of islands and islets situated just a few kilometres off the coast. This tour will allow you to admire the islands’ natural beauty, including their white beaches, turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery.
Another option is to go on a boat trip to spot dolphins. Dolphins are very common in this area and often approach boats to play and be stroked.
Nature walks
Sardinia is a region rich in natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes. There are numerous excursions starting from Olbia to explore the natural beauty of Gallura, the region in which the city is situated.
A very popular walk is the one to Cala Goloritze beach, one of Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches. The walk takes about 3 hours and follows a woodland path offering splendid views of the sea.
Another interesting walk is the one to the Riu Mulinu nuraghe, an ancient nuragic village situated about 10 kilometres from Olbia. The walk takes about 2 hours and follows a path through the Mediterranean scrub.
Olbia also offers plenty of other things to do, such as:
- Visit the beaches in the area
- Go shopping in the shops in the historic centre or in the city’s shopping centres.
- Savour Sardinian cuisine, rich in flavours and aromas.
How to book
Activities, tours and excursions in Olbia can be booked online via various websites, including Viator e GetYourGuide. These websites offer a wide range of activities and competitive prices.
Here are a few tips for booking your activities in Olbia:
- Book in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the high season.
- Read other travellers’ reviews carefully to choose the activity that suits you best.
- Compare prices on different websites before booking.
Examples of activities, tours and excursions
City tour
- Guided tour of the historic centre
- A visit to the National Archaeological Museum in Olbia
- A visit to the Cathedral of San Simplicio
Boat trips
- Tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago
- Dolphin-spotting tour
- Boat tour with lunch on board
Nature walks
- Excursion to Cala Goloritze beach
- Walk to the Riu Mulinu nuraghe
- Walk to the Su Gologone waterfall
Conclusion
Olbia is a city brimming with attractions and activities to suit all tastes. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday in this stunning Sardinian resort.
