Public Transportation & Local Transit: Olbia

Public Transit Systems

Olbia's main public transportation system a local bus network operated by ASPO (Azienda Speciale per la Mobilità di Olbia). This network covers routes within the city.

The regional ARST network connects Olbia to other towns throughout Sardinia. These systems affordable ways to travel locally and regionally.

Routes & Fares

ASPO (local): Covers routes within Olbia city, including connections to nearby beaches like Pittulongu and the airport.
ARST (regional): The main bus station in Olbia a hub for regional buses connecting to Sassari, Cagliari, Palau, Santa Teresa Gallura, and other Sardinian destinations.
ASPO tickets: Single tickets (usually €1.00-€1.50) available at tabaccherie (tobacco shops), newsstands, or from the driver (often with a small surcharge).
ARST tickets: Purchase at designated sales points like bars, tabaccherie, newsstands, or sometimes from the driver. Helpful to buy them in advance for regional routes.

Local Bus Network

ASPO routes within Olbia city and nearby areas like Pittulongu beach and the airport.

Regional Connections

ARST buses connect Olbia to major towns across Sardinia, enabling island exploration.

Ticket Purchase

Tickets for ASPO and ARST available at tabaccherie, newsstands, or directly from the bus driver.

Service Information

Operating Hours

Buses generally run from early morning until late evening (around 8 PM - 10 PM).
Reduced service on Sundays and public holidays.
Frequency varies by route, with city center routes being more frequent.

Accessibility & Tips

Newer buses may ramps for wheelchair access, but older models might not. Accessibility limited in some areas.
Use Google Maps for route planning; it often integrates public transport schedules.
Validate your ticket immediately upon boarding using the machine on the bus.

Taxis & Local Rides

Licensed Taxis

White with a taxi sign on the roof. Find them at designated taxi stands (e.g., airport, train station, city center) or call by phone.

Typical Fares

Fares on a meter. Flag-fall fee plus per-kilometer rate. Surcharges for night service, Sundays/holidays, and luggage may apply. City center €10-€20. Airport to city center €15-€25.

Payment

Most taxis accept cash; some accept cards. Confirm payment options before starting your journey.

Ride-Sharing

Uber not widely available as a traditional ride-sharing service in Olbia or Sardinia due to local regulations. Direct hailing or calling more common.

Vehicle Rentals

Renting a car the most flexibility for exploring Sardinia. Motorcycle and scooter rentals available in Olbia, popular for navigating coastal roads and reaching hidden coves.

Car Rental

Requirements: Minimum age 21-25 (varies by company; a young driver surcharge often applies for those under 25).
You a valid national driving license and an International Driving Permit for non-EU licenses. A credit card needed for the deposit.
Companies: Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise) have offices at OLB airport and in the city. Local companies also exist.
Booking: Booking well in advance highly recommended, especially for summer travel, to secure your desired vehicle and rate.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Motorcycle and scooter rentals available in Olbia. Popular for navigating coastal roads and reaching hidden coves.
Requirements similar to car rental, usually needing a motorcycle endorsement on your license.
Helmets mandatory for all riders.
Explore hidden coves and scenic routes with a two-wheeler.

Driving Rules & Roads

Driving laws: Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory.
Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on main roads, and 110-130 km/h on highways.
Drink-driving laws strict. Use headlights outside urban areas, even during the day.

Road conditions: Generally good, especially on main arterial roads.
Secondary roads can be narrow and winding.
In summer, roads to popular beaches congested, leading to slower travel times.

Parking Details

Blue Lines

Indicate paid parking (use Parcometri machines for tickets or apps like EasyPark).

White Lines

Indicate free parking spaces.

Yellow Lines

For residents or disabled parking only. Avoid parking here.

Walking & Cycling

Explore Olbia's charm on foot or by bike.

Pedestrian Zones

Olbia's city center, including Corso Umberto I, Via Roma, and the waterfront, very pedestrian-friendly, with many pedestrianized streets.
Many beaches accessible by walking or a short bus ride.
Self-guided walking tours easy for the historical center.
Local tour guides may private or group historical walking tours.

Cycling Routes

Dedicated bicycle lanes within Olbia limited.
Cycling popular along coastal roads and for exploring rural areas, but caution advised when sharing roads with cars.
Some local shops bicycle rentals, from city bikes to mountain bikes.
No specific "no-go" areas. Exercise caution on busy roads without sidewalks or bike lanes.

Tour Buses

Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services less common. Local tour operators bus excursions to nearby attractions.

Water Taxis

Boat taxis and water transportation helpful for accessing islands like Tavolara and Molara, and for island-hopping in La Maddalena Archipelago.

Accessibility Services

Accessibility infrastructure varies. Newer public buildings and some hotels accessible, but many older establishments and public transport may challenges.

Unique Local Transport

Funiculars & Cable Cars

Cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport options not present in Olbia.
The landscape mainly explored by road or sea.
Focus on scenic drives and boat trips for varied views.

Adventure Tours

Some adventure companies quad bike tours for exploring inland trails.
These cater to specific interests beyond standard transport.
Check with local tour operators for availability.

Final Travel Advice

Exploring Olbia means enjoying its coastal beauty, historical layers, and local rhythms. Plan ahead for a seamless trip.

Embrace local culture, savor the cuisine, and create lasting memories in Sardinia.

Public Transportation & Local Transit