Travelling from Genoa to Olbia: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the Mediterranean route between Genoa, Italy's historic port city, and Olbia, Sardinia's gateway to the Costa Smeralda, offers travellers a scenic journey across the Tyrrhenian Sea. This popular connection spans approximately 388.5 km (241.4 miles) and provides a vital link between mainland Italy and the island paradise of Sardinia. While flights connect these destinations, the ferry route remains the preferred choice for many travellers seeking to bring vehicles or enjoy a leisurely sea crossing. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Genoa to Olbia, with a focus on the ferry experience, port information, and what to expect upon arrival in beautiful Olbia.

How to get from Genoa to Olbia: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Genoa to Olbia, you have two main transportation options: flying or taking a ferry across the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Flying between these destinations typically involves connecting flights through Rome or Milan, as direct flights are limited. While air travel is faster, it lacks the scenic experience and flexibility that ferry travel offers.

The ferry route from Genoa to Olbia spans 209.8 nautical miles and represents the most direct and convenient option for travellers, especially those wishing to bring their vehicles to Sardinia. With approximately 2 daily sailings (12 weekly and 48 monthly), this maritime connection provides regular service throughout the year.

Ferry crossings average around 11 hours and 41 minutes, making them ideal for overnight journeys where you can sleep in a cabin and wake up in Sardinia. The ferry experience offers panoramic sea views, comfortable amenities, and the practical advantage of bringing your car, which is invaluable for exploring Sardinia's diverse landscapes and hidden beaches.

Taking the ferry from Genoa to Olbia

You can take a ferry from Genoa to Olbia. Ferries sail in around 11 hours and 41 minutes with about 2 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 10 hours and 45 minutes and is provided by Grandi Navi Veloci. Ferry prices can range depending on operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry and time of year, with typical fares starting from around £249. Departures start as early as 08:45, with the last departure from Genoa to Olbia at 23:59.

Grandi Navi Veloci is the primary operator offering the fastest service on this route. Their modern fleet provides passengers with a comfortable crossing experience as you make your way to Sardinia. The ferry company offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from comfortable reclining seats to private cabins with en-suite facilities.

Onboard amenities typically include restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment areas to make your journey enjoyable. Many vessels feature outdoor deck spaces where you can take in the fresh sea air and spectacular Mediterranean views. Some ferries also offer cinema rooms, children's play areas, and even swimming pools during summer months.

While the route operates year-round, it's worth noting that sailing frequency increases during the summer tourist season (June to September). Booking in advance is highly recommended during this peak period, as spaces for both passengers and vehicles can fill up quickly.

For those travelling with vehicles, the ferries accommodate cars, motorcycles, campervans, and bicycles, allowing you complete freedom to explore Sardinia upon arrival. Vehicle height and length restrictions apply, so be sure to provide accurate measurements when booking.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Genoa)

Genoa's port is one of Italy's largest and busiest maritime hubs, situated close to the city centre. The ferry terminal is well-connected to the city's transportation network, making it easily accessible for travellers.

To reach the port, you can take advantage of several options. Public buses connect the main railway station (Genoa Piazza Principe) to the ferry terminal, with a journey time of approximately 15 minutes. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and provide a convenient door-to-door service. If you're driving to the port, follow signs for Porto di Genova and the ferry terminal. Several parking facilities are available nearby for both short and long-term stays.

The terminal itself offers essential facilities including ticket counters, waiting areas, restrooms, and small snack bars. There are luggage storage services available if you need to leave bags before boarding. Check-in typically opens 2-3 hours before departure, and vehicle check-in may close earlier than foot passenger access, so plan accordingly.

Arrival Port (Olbia)

Olbia's port, known as Isola Bianca, serves as the main gateway to northeastern Sardinia and is located about 2 kilometres from the city centre. The port is modern and well-organised, making disembarkation a straightforward process.

Upon arrival, foot passengers can reach Olbia's centre via the port shuttle bus, which runs regularly between the terminal and downtown. Taxis are also available at the port exit. If you've brought your own vehicle, the main roads leading to popular destinations are clearly signposted as you exit the port area.

The port terminal features tourist information desks where you can gather maps and local advice. There are also car rental agencies, ATMs, restrooms, and cafés. Just outside the port, you'll find more dining options and convenience stores where you can stock up on essentials before continuing your journey.

For those heading directly to Costa Smeralda or other northern Sardinian destinations, the port provides good road connections, with the SS125 coastal road easily accessible from the terminal.

Day Trip Possibilities

While the ferry journey between Genoa and Olbia takes approximately 11 hours and 41 minutes each way, a single-day round trip is not feasible. The earliest departure from Genoa is at 08:45, and with the crossing time, you would arrive in Olbia in the evening, leaving no time for exploration before needing to return.

For those interested in visiting Olbia from Genoa, we recommend planning at least a one-night stay, preferably longer to truly appreciate what the region has to offer. An ideal itinerary would involve taking an evening ferry from Genoa, sleeping onboard in a cabin, and arriving fresh in Olbia the following morning. This allows you a full day to explore the city and nearby attractions before either returning or continuing your Sardinian adventure.

If your schedule is extremely limited but you're determined to see Sardinia, consider flying instead of taking the ferry. While this guide focuses on sea travel, flights can get you to Olbia in under two hours, potentially allowing for a long day trip if you catch the earliest and latest flights available.

The most practical approach, however, is to plan a minimum 2-3 day stay in Olbia and the surrounding area. This gives you time to visit the beautiful beaches of Costa Smeralda, explore the archaeological sites, and experience the authentic Sardinian culture and cuisine without rushing.

Things to Do in Olbia

Olbia offers visitors a delightful mix of historical sites, beautiful beaches, and authentic Sardinian culture. Here are the top attractions to explore during your visit:

Basilica di San Simplicio

This 11th-century Romanesque church is Olbia's most important historical monument. Built using local granite, it houses interesting artifacts and provides insight into the region's religious heritage. Open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 with a midday closure, the basilica offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Archaeological Museum

The Museo Archeologico di Olbia showcases the city's rich past, from Nuragic civilisation artifacts to Roman remains. The highlight is a preserved ancient Roman ship. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00, it's an excellent introduction to the area's fascinating history.

Pittulongu Beach

Just 4km from Olbia's centre, this stunning white sand beach offers crystal-clear waters and excellent facilities. Perfect for families with its shallow entry, the beach also features restaurants serving fresh seafood. It's accessible by local bus or a short drive and is ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.

Tavolara Island

This dramatic limestone massif rising from the sea can be reached by boat tours departing from Olbia's marina. Once declared the world's smallest kingdom, the island offers hiking trails, pristine beaches, and a unique dining experience at the island's only restaurant. Tours operate daily during summer months.

Porto Cervo

A 30-minute drive from Olbia takes you to the heart of the glamorous Costa Smeralda. This luxury marina and village features high-end boutiques, exquisite restaurants, and people-watching opportunities. Even if luxury shopping isn't on your agenda, the stunning architecture and yacht-filled harbour make it worth a visit.

Olbia's Neighbourhoods

Olbia's compact centre is easily explored on foot, with distinct areas offering different experiences:

The historic centre (Centro Storico) features narrow streets lined with shops, cafés, and the main archaeological sites. Corso Umberto is the main shopping street, bustling with activity and lined with boutiques and restaurants.

For an authentic local experience, visit the San Simplicio neighbourhood around the basilica, where you'll find traditional homes and family-run trattorias serving regional specialties.

The waterfront area near the port offers seafood restaurants with harbour views and a more contemporary atmosphere. For nightlife, the streets around Piazza Regina Margherita come alive after dark with bars and music venues that stay open until late.

Weather in Olbia

Olbia enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. This makes it a year-round destination, though the character of your visit will vary significantly with the seasons.

Summer (June to September) brings temperatures consistently between 25-30°C (77-86°F), with July and August often exceeding 30°C. These months offer perfect beach weather with very little rainfall and sea temperatures warm enough for comfortable swimming. However, this is also when the city is most crowded and accommodation prices peak.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) are excellent times to visit, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices.

Winter (December to March) is mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 8°C (46°F), though rainfall increases significantly. While not ideal for beach activities, winter offers a quieter, more authentic experience of local life.

Regarding ferry operations, the Genoa-Olbia route runs year-round, but services may be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter months when strong winds and rough seas can occasionally cause delays or cancellations. The most reliable sailing conditions occur from May through October, coinciding with the main tourist season.

Cost of Visiting Olbia

Olbia offers options for various budgets, though prices tend to increase during the summer high season. Here's what you can expect in terms of costs:

A budget traveller can manage on approximately £60-80 per day, including a bed in a hostel or budget guesthouse (£25-35), meals at inexpensive restaurants or self-catering (£20-30), and public transportation or limited activities (£15).

Mid-range travellers should budget around £120-150 daily for a comfortable hotel room (£70-90), dining at mid-range restaurants (£30-40), and activities including museum entries and local tours (£20-30).

Luxury experiences in and around Olbia, particularly in Costa Smeralda, can easily exceed £300 per day with high-end hotels starting at £150, fine dining experiences (£60-100 per person), and exclusive activities or boat rentals.

To save money, consider visiting during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) when prices drop but the weather remains pleasant. Local markets like Mercato di Olbia offer fresh produce at reasonable prices if you're self-catering, and the municipal buses provide an affordable alternative to taxis for getting around.

Best Time to Visit Olbia

The ideal time to visit Olbia depends largely on your priorities and interests, though each season offers a different perspective on this charming Sardinian city.

Peak season (July-August) brings hot, sunny days perfect for enjoying the region's famous beaches and crystalline waters. This is when Olbia and the surrounding Costa Smeralda are most vibrant, with all attractions, restaurants, and nightlife venues operating at full capacity. However, this comes with higher prices, larger crowds, and the need to book accommodations and ferry tickets well in advance.

The shoulder seasons of late May to June and September to early October offer an excellent compromise. Temperatures remain warm (20-25°C), the sea is still comfortable for swimming, and you'll encounter significantly fewer tourists. Many consider September the perfect month to visit, as the water remains warm from the summer months while the crowds have largely departed.

The off-peak winter season (November-April) presents Olbia in its most authentic light. While many tourist-oriented businesses reduce their hours or close entirely, you'll experience local life and culture more genuinely. Winter visitors can enjoy historical sites and museums without crowds, though beach activities are limited to walks rather than swimming.

For cultural experiences, plan your visit around local festivals such as the Festa di San Simplicio in mid-May, when Olbia honours its patron saint with processions, traditional music, and street food. September brings wine harvest festivals in the surrounding countryside, offering insight into Sardinia's viticultural traditions.

For the most balanced experience combining good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowd levels, we recommend late May to early June or the month of September as the optimal times to visit Olbia.

Accommodation Options in Olbia

Finding the right place to stay in Olbia enhances your Sardinian adventure. The city offers accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets.

For budget-conscious travellers, consider guesthouses and B&Bs in the historic centre, with prices starting from around £50 per night. These often provide a more authentic experience with local hosts who can share insider tips about the area.

Couples might enjoy the boutique hotels near Corso Umberto, Olbia's main shopping street, where you can find charming rooms from £80-120 per night. Many offer terraces with views of the city or nearby coast.

Families travelling to Olbia should look at the apartment rentals and family-friendly hotels near Pittulongu Beach, typically ranging from £100-200 per night depending on size and amenities. These often provide more space and self-catering facilities.

For those continuing their journey around Sardinia, several campsites are located within 15-20 minutes of the city, offering pitches from £20-30 per night - perfect if you're bringing a vehicle from the Genoa ferry.

Getting Around Olbia

Navigating Olbia is relatively straightforward once you arrive by ferry from Genoa. The city centre is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore the main attractions on foot.

Public buses connect the port with the city centre and main beaches, with single tickets costing around £1.50. The ASPO bus company operates regular services throughout the city and to nearby coastal areas.

Taxis are readily available at the port and throughout the city, though they can be more expensive than public transport. Expect to pay around £10-15 for a journey from the port to the city centre.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Sardinia's stunning coastline and interior at your own pace. Several rental agencies operate in Olbia, with prices starting from about £30 per day. The road network is good, though parking in the city centre can be challenging during peak season.

For those who enjoy cycling, bike rentals are available from about £15 per day and provide a pleasant way to explore the flatter coastal areas around Olbia.

Plan Your Perfect Sardinian Getaway

The Genoa to Olbia ferry route offers a convenient gateway to the stunning island of Sardinia. With approximately 12 weekly sailings operated by Grandi Navi Veloci, you have plenty of flexibility when planning your trip. The journey takes around 11 hours 41 minutes on average, with the shortest crossing time being 10 hours 45 minutes.

Whether you choose a daytime sailing departing from 08:45 or opt for an overnight journey with departures until 23:59, the ferry provides a relaxing start to your Sardinian adventure. With fares starting from around £249, this sea route represents good value compared to the hassle of flying.

Remember that booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months when Sardinia becomes a popular destination. With 48 monthly sailings available year-round, you can visit this Mediterranean paradise in any season.

We recommend checking the latest schedules and booking your Genoa to Olbia ferry today to secure your preferred sailing date and the best available fares for your journey to this captivating Sardinian destination.