Tips when renting a car at Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB)
- Book early, very early: especially between the high season, from May to September, when Sardinia’s summer tourism peaks;
- A valid driver’s license and credit card are required in Sardinia: most foreign licenses are accepted, though an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended;
- Compact or economy cars are suggested and ideal for navigating narrow coastal roads and town centers;
- Inspect the car carefully at pickup and drop-off, and take photos and videos and save it for reference when you return the car;
- Parking can be limited in seaside towns during high season: look for marked public lots. Blue line main paid parking;
- Fuel stations near the airport and along main roads usually close at night, that’s why you need to plan refueling accordingly;
- Consider booking a vehicle with good air conditioning and GPS for comfort during long drives.
Why rent a car at Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB)
Renting a car at Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) is the most convenient way to explore the island of Sardinia and the hidden gems of the italian region.
Public transport options on the island are limited and many of the most beautiful beaches, villages and natural parks are accessible only by car because of the sandy road.
With a rental vehicle, you can drive along the island’s iconic coastline, reach hidden coves, and explore charming inland towns like San Pantaleo or Tempio Pausania.
The airport hosts all major international and local rental car companies within walking distance of the terminal, offering a fast and easy pickup process upon arrival.
Driving from Olbia Airport – Getting started
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is located just 4 km from Olbia’s city center, with easy access to Sardinia’s main road network:
- SS125 Orientale Sarda: runs along the east coast, perfect for scenic drives to San Teodoro, Orosei, and Cala Gonone;
- SS131 Carlo Felice: connects Olbia to Nuoro and the island’s central regions;
- SP82 and SP73: lead to the glamorous Costa Smeralda towns like Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia.
Most highways in Sardinia are toll-free. If you choose to visit hidden territory, expect winding mountain roads in inland areas. Drive carefully, especially at night, as rural roads can be narrow and unlit.
Explore Sardinia from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport
From Olbia Airport, you can reach many of Sardinia’s most breathtaking destinations in under two hours:
- Costa Smeralda (30–45 minutes): famous for its turquoise water, luxury resorts, and chic marinas like Porto Cervo;
- La Maddalena Archipelago (1.5 hours): accessible by ferry from Palau and offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters;
- San Teodoro (30 minutes): vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches like La Cinta, and great snorkeling spots;
- Orosei Gulf (1.5 hours): dramatic and fascinating cliffs, hidden coves, and coastal hiking trails;
- Alghero (2.5 hours): a charming Catalan-influenced town on the northwest coast.
A rental car gives you the freedom to explore both famous coastal routes and lesser-known inland villages at your own pace.
Recommended day trips and scenic routes
Are you planning your trip to Sardinia? Don’t miss these beautiful and fascinating roads:
- Costa Smeralda Drive: from Olbia to Porto Cervo and onward to Santa Teresa di Gallura, with spectacular sea views and scenic turnouts;
- Gennargentu Mountain Route: winding roads through the island’s heartland, ideal for nature lovers and photographers;
- La Maddalena Coastal Loop: a stunning circuit around the islands after taking the ferry from Palau;
- Orosei Coast Road (SS125): dramatic cliffs and turquoise coves make this one of Sardinia’s most beautiful drives;
- Gallura Wine Route: explore local vineyards and historic granite villages inland from Olbia.
These routes showcase Sardinia’s variety from glamorous coastal towns to beautiful countryside and natural wonders.
