Why choose to travel in Sardinia by car?
Sardinia is a magical and wonderful island. It is rich in magnificent coasts, lovely towns, and a hinterland that hides ancient mysteries and knowledge. The best way to get to know it? By car. And by boat, of course.
Olbia is a city centered around relaxation and simplicity. Everything is amplified when you decide to grant yourself the freedom to rent a car and visit the beaches, the coasts, and all the magnificent territory of Costa Smeralda.
Olbia has beautiful beaches and offers various activities – such as boat trips – to enjoy the sun and the climate of Sardinia.
The numbers of tourism in Olbia (2025)
According to open data from the Sardinia Region’s Tourism Observatory, in 2025 Olbia recorded 362,778 arrivals. The most frequented months: August (67,922 arrivals), July (65,960 arrivals), June (53,551 arrivals).
- August: 67,922 arrivals, 260,780 stays
- July: 65,960 arrivals, 249,774 stays
- June: 53,551 arrivals, 177,793 stays
Take the opportunity to visit them all from Capo Ceraso all the way to Golfo Aranci and continue north towards Palau, Santa Teresa Gallura and enjoy the stunning viewpoints and must-see locations.
Car rental at the airport
At the Costa Smeralda International Airport in Olbia, the main car rental companies such as EuropCar, Hertz, Sixt, and Noleggiare are present. In addition to the large car rental companies, you'll also find smaller, local businesses that offer excellent services, often at more economical rates, such as Only Sardinia and Ruvioli.
Car rental in the city
There are also car rentals located in the center of Olbia that offer free delivery of the car throughout the city: you can choose to rent in the center and have it brought directly to the port, airport, or other pick-up points. All this often without extra charges, with quick procedures.
Rent a car in Olbia without a credit card with Move Around Sardinia →
Free roads, no tolls
In Sardinia, there are no toll highways: you won’t have to bear the extra costs of tolls or queues at toll booths. You can move freely without tolls and enjoy the numerous provincial and state roads, many of which offer breathtaking views.
Amazing landscapes
You can drive on roads with coastal or countryside views… breathtaking! The roads in Sardinia are not just simple communication routes but real tourist experiences. Some roads hug the sea, while others pass through the thick Mediterranean scrub. Some are traveled by luxury cars, while others see shepherds moving their flocks from one pasture to another; in narrower stretches, it is advisable to drive calmly and with respect for those who live in those places.
- Scenic roads
- Alghero - Bosa
- Olbia - Porto Cervo
- Olbia - Golfo Aranci
Along the Olbia-Porto Cervo road, there are several viewpoints where you can admire the landscape and buy cold drinks or street food snacks.
Reduced traffic
Usually, the roads of Olbia and the main cities of northern Sardinia are not very crowded because the beaches and boat trips attract both residents and tourists. You can, therefore, enjoy a relaxed and stress-free drive. During peak hours – such as around 6 PM when returning from the beach – there are parts of the cities where small traffic jams occur. Keep this in mind if you need to catch the ferry or have other commitments. Remember that Olbia is a city of 60 thousand inhabitants, so its traffic cannot be compared to that of large metropolises. Information updated for 2026.
Getting around independently
Getting around Sardinia by public transport like buses or trains can be less straightforward because connections are not always widespread. Therefore, planning a holiday in Sardinia considering moving exclusively with these means requires attention and good organization. If you want to experience Sardinia and reach the hinterland from the coast or simply move between Olbia and Golfo Aranci or Palau, the most convenient solution remains to rent a car to get around independently. Information updated for 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to get around Sardinia?
- The best way to discover Sardinia is to rent a car. This allows you to explore the wonderful beaches, breathtaking views, and charming towns of the island with total freedom.
- Where can I rent a car in Olbia?
- In Olbia, you can rent a car at both Costa Smeralda airport and in the city center. Both large companies like Hertz and EuropCar and small local businesses with competitive rates are available.
- Are there tolls on the roads in Sardinia?
- In Sardinia, there are no toll highways, allowing you to move without additional costs. This is a significant advantage for enjoying your trip without financial worries.
- What are the most beautiful scenic roads to drive in Sardinia?
- Some of the most scenic roads include the Olbia-Porto Cervo and Olbia-Golfo Aranci routes. These roads offer incredible coastal landscapes and great stopping points to admire the views.
- Is it easy to find parking in tourist spots in Sardinia?
- In general, it is fairly easy to find parking in tourist areas, especially during the low season. However, in high season and in very crowded locations, it's advisable to arrive early to find a spot.
- Can I rent a car without a credit card in Sardinia?
- Yes, some rental companies like Move Around Sardinia allow you to rent a car without a credit card. Always check the specific conditions at the time of booking.
- What is the best season to visit Sardinia by car?
- The best season to visit Sardinia by car is spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and the beaches are not yet crowded. In summer, you may encounter some difficulties due to increased tourist influx.