Olbia, often seen as the gateway to Sardinia’s stunning beaches and rugged coastlines, is also a city worth exploring in its own right. Its narrow streets, medieval churches, and lively parks make for a compact but fascinating urban experience. What makes Olbia stand out for city tours is its mix of historical sites and easy access for fun, compact rides. I particularly like the Olbia: Complete City Tour in Tuk-Tuk because it offers a quick yet comprehensive way to see key sights while zipping around on a tuk-tuk—perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of the city.
While Olbia isn’t sprawling like Rome or Florence, its small size makes it ideal for intimate, guided explorations. The list below showcases three top options, each offering a different way to discover Olbia’s charm—whether you prefer a brief overview or a more in-depth adventure.
1. Olbia: Complete City Tour in Tuk-Tuk
At number one, the Olbia: Complete City Tour in Tuk-Tuk earns its top spot with a 4.5/5 rating from 118 reviews and a full hour of travel through the city’s most interesting spots. This tour is perfect for those wanting to see the main sights without the fuss of walking or large buses. The tuk-tuk itself is a quirky, eco-friendly ride, offering access to narrow streets and alleyways that bigger vehicles can’t reach.
The tour covers highlights such as the Basilica di San Simplicio, an impressive Romanesque church dating back to the 11th century, and the San Paolo Church with its colorful dome that stands out in the cityscape. You also visit Fausto Noce Park, a lush green space that acts as Olbia’s peaceful heart. The driver’s friendly attitude and ability to customize the experience make it a favorite—though some reviews mention the tuk-tuk was tricky to find and that the driver didn’t drop guests back at the port, so plan accordingly. At $65.17 per person, the value for a quick, lively overview is excellent.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a rich, quick look at Olbia’s top sights with a fun, accessible ride. It’s a lively introduction that’s well worth the price.
2. Olbia: A Short Guided Tour of the City in Tuk-Tuk
Coming in with similar high praise, the Olbia: A Short Guided Tour of the City in Tuk-Tuk is slightly more affordable at $41.50 and lasts about 30 minutes. This compact tour is ideal if your schedule is tight but you still want a taste of Olbia’s highlights.
It takes you through the winding lanes of the historic center, with stops at the Basilica di San Simplicio, the Church of San Paolo with its colorful dome, and Fausto Noce Park, which was named the second-best green project in Italy in 2005. The route also includes a stroll along the main street of Olbia’s old town, giving you a feel for local life. Multiple reviews mention the driver being very friendly and that the experience is a great way to see the city without much effort. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting a quick, engaging ride.
Bottom Line: If time is limited but you want a friendly, informative ride around Olbia, this tour is a smart choice. It’s compact, fun, and offers good value.
3. Olbia: Golf Cart City Tour – Highlights & Photo Stops
For those who prefer a relaxed, comfortable experience, the Olbia: Golf Cart City Tour – Highlights & Photo Stops is a 30-minute to 1-hour adventure that emphasizes convenience and photo opportunities. Riding in a small electric golf cart, you get barrier-free access to Olbia’s most iconic landmarks, including the Basilica di San Simplicio, the Church of San Paolo, and Fausto Noce Park.
This tour is particularly suited for families or groups up to five people who want a quiet, engaging way to see the city. It features panoramic 360° views, engaging audio stories, and stops that allow for easy photo-taking—great for making memories or sharing on social media. The electric golf cart is eco-friendly and quiet, making the ride less intrusive but equally informative. The tour’s flexibility—offering multiple starting times and the option to arrange pickup—adds to its appeal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with small groups who appreciate comfort and great photo opportunities; it’s a low-effort way to get a comprehensive, scenic overview.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your time, budget, and travel style. If you want a quick, lively introduction to Olbia’s main sights, the short tuk-tuk tour offers great value and flexibility. For a more in-depth experience with a friendly driver, the full-hour tuk-tuk tour covers more ground and provides a richer narrative. If comfort and photo opportunities are your priorities, the golf cart tour may be your best bet, especially for small groups and families.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, since these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about whether you prefer a short, budget-friendly ride or a comprehensive, relaxed adventure—either way, Olbia’s compact size makes exploring its highlights a breeze.
In summary, Olbia offers a variety of city tours that suit different preferences. The lively tuk-tuk options are perfect for quick, engaging explorations, while the golf cart tour provides a comfortable, scenic experience. Whichever you choose, starting your day with one of these tours is a fantastic way to get a feel for Olbia before heading out to its nearby beaches or archaeological sites. Be sure to book early, and enjoy discovering Sardinia’s friendly capital from a new angle.
