Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Olbia. Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside OLB
Before heading into Olbia, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Italy vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Olbia is roughly 40 minutes from OLB via Bus Line 2 and 10. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Olbia from OLB
From OLB, the Bus Line 2 and 10 gets you to Olbia in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Bus Line 2 and 10 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Olbia, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
How to Spend Your Time in Olbia
If you head into Olbia, here are two things worth checking out:
Basilica di San Simplicio is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Corso Umberto I & Olbia Old Town is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside OLB, you can spend time at Sardegna Lounge or try Aelia Duty Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
In Olbia
If you make it into town, Anticas Licanzias is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Trattoria Pizzeria Terra Sarda.
Inside OLB
If you’re staying in the terminal, Briciole Bar is your main option. I Famosi Pasta & Pizza works too if you want something quick.
Luggage Storage at OLB
Luggage storage options at OLB can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Olbia for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at OLB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Olbia itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Italy that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at OLB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, OLB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Olbia doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from OLB, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.