For your chance to escape to a little slice of Italian heaven, book a trip to Sardinia’s city of Olbia. A rental car will allow you to tour this coastal paradise and journey into the beautiful countryside.
There aren’t many cities in the world where you can find medieval buildings amongst palm trees and ocean views, but Olbia has this and more. Picturesque squares dotted with cafés, and shops and stunning viewpoints of the Gulf add to this incredible atmosphere of tranquillity. Enjoy fresh coffee on the piazzas and relish in the historical sights, then hop in your rental car to Costa Smeralda for sun, sand and turquoise waters.
Hiring a car in Olbia
Hiring a cheap rental car is the best way to see Sardinia and pre-booking is a must during the summer season. Save big when using Airport Rentalsto find the ideal car hire for Olbia. Simply search your travel dates to view and compare deals from 19 car suppliers, including local brands such as Sicily by Car, and household names such as Enterprise and Hertz. Select by price or use filters to narrow in on options that suit your preferences.
Every booking confirmation is secure and includes exclusive Airport Rentals benefits. Our customers never have to worry about hidden fees, and have access to our 24/7 customer service line for booking assistance.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB)
Olbia Airport is one of Sardinia’s top transport hubs for visiting the Italian island. Its busiest season is in summer when flights from across Europe land daily. The terminal offers a mix of retail shops, restaurants, wine bars, an art gallery and even a garden with local plant life. WiFi is free and internet kiosks are also available for all guests.
On-site car rental agencies can be found at the arrivals hall in Terminal Autonoleggi, while off-site depots offer passenger pick-up services.
Exploring more of Sardinia? Pick up or drop off a rental car in Sassari, Nuoro, Oristano or other island locations.
Guide to driving a rental car in Olbia
Driving from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport to Olbia
Olbia Airport is conveniently located just a few kilometres south of the coastal city. Arrive in the city centre in under ten minutes taking the following route: exit the airport heading east on Via Degli Astronauti and continue on this road through the roundabout (3rd exit). Next, take the Strada Statale 125 to SS127, sticking to the right lanes toward Olbia Centro. Follow this road towards the city and take a right onto Via Roma to arrive downtown.
Driving tips for your Olbia rental car
Compared to mainland Italy, driving in Sardinia is much less stressful. Expect heightened traffic in rush hour times and during summer holidays in downtown Olbia.
● Drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left.
● Speed limits are as follows: 130 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on local roads and 50 km/h in urban areas.
● Share the road with motorcyclists and cyclists.
● When driving on the country roads you may have to brake for flocks of sheep.
● Bring along a road map in case your GPS fails.
For more on Italian road rules, scroll to the bottom of the Italy car rental page.
Parking options at Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport and Olbia
Find plenty of short-term and long-term parking directly across from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport. Pay €2 per hour up to 3 hours, then pay an additional €0.50 for each extra hour. Expect to pay €16 for the day, €26 for 2 days, €34 for 3 days, and only €3 for each additional day.
Street parking in Olbia city centre can be difficult to find, but there are parking garages scattered throughout the area. Most accommodation providers offer guest parking, or can at least recommend spots for your rental car. Be sure to abide by posted time limits.
Visiting other places in Europe? Plan the ultimate road trip route with our helpful driving distance guide and best road trip apps for an unforgettable journey.
