In Gallura, a car is almost essential: the most beautiful beaches (Cala Brandinchi, Porto Istana, the coves of San Teodoro) are not served by public transport, and Palau — from where tours to La Maddalena depart — is 40 minutes away. Here’s how to rent without surprises and what budget to expect.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport hosts all the main companies with counters open until late evening: it’s the most convenient choice if you arrive by plane. If you arrive by ferry at Isola Bianca, some companies have offices at the port or offer a free shuttle from the terminal.
In August, an economy car starts from €60-90 per day, but booking by April can bring the price down to below €40. Comparing companies can save you quite a bit: rates for the same dates can vary by up to 50%. Always check the excess and security deposit required on your card.
The roads to Costa Smeralda and San Teodoro are scenic but narrow and busy in summer: leave early for beaches with restricted access like Cala Brandinchi. Parking in seaside locations is almost all paid (€4-10 per day); bring cash because not all accept cards.
An economy car is perfect for the coast: the narrow roads to the beaches, small parking spots, and low fuel consumption make a difference over a week. A compact SUV makes sense only if you are four with luggage or if you plan on driving on unpaved roads to coves like Cala Girgolu. A convertible or discovery vehicle is a luxury to enjoy on the scenic route to Palau — but in August, the surcharge is significant. An automatic transmission should be requested in advance: it’s still rare in Sardinia and goes quickly.
Book early with free cancellation and recheck prices in May: if they have dropped, cancel and rebook. Picking up in town rather than at the airport often costs 15-20% less, and a full week usually has better rates than 5 days. Pay attention to fuel: always choose the full-to-full option and take a 360-degree photo of the car at pickup, scratches included — disputes upon return are the most annoying cost of renting.
For just the city center and boat excursions from the port, no: everything is within walking distance. For the beaches (Pittulongu, Porto Istana, Cala Brandinchi) and to reach Palau or Costa Smeralda, yes: public transport is rare and slow.
In summer, yes: the tight parking spots at seaside locations and country roads increase the risk of minor damages. Full coverage without excess costs €10-20 more per day but avoids high security deposits and disputes upon return.
EU driving licenses are valid without formalities. For non-EU licenses, an international driving permit is required along with the original license. The minimum age is generally 21 (with a young driver surcharge up to 25), and the license must be at least one year old.
Almost always yes: the security deposit (€500-1500 depending on the car) is blocked on a credit card in the driver's name. Some companies accept debit cards with a surcharge or mandatory full coverage: check in advance to avoid being stranded at the counter.
Yes, and it’s a common strategy: spend days in the center of Olbia without a car for excursions and city visits, then rent for 2-3 days for beaches and Palau. In June and September, short rentals are easily found even last minute; in August, it’s better to book in advance anyway.