Olbia: Tour Between History and Archaeology with Aperitif
Step through millennia of Sardinian civilization, from nuraghi to medieval basilicas, and raise a glass to the Gulf of Olbia.
This guided archaeological tour in Olbia takes visitors through the layered history of Gallura, exploring prehistoric monuments, sacred sites, and medieval heritage across a half-day journey into north-eastern Sardinia. The experience is rated easy and suitable for a wide range of travelers. It concludes with a local aperitif overlooking one of the island's most scenic coastal views.
The Gallura region preserves some of the most significant nuragic remains on the island, and this tour brings you face to face with three of them: the Cabu Abbas nuraghe, the sacred well of Sa Testa, and the tomb of the giants of Monte e S'Abe. Each site sits within a landscape shaped by Mediterranean maquis, where wild herbs, cork oaks, and granite outcrops set a vivid backdrop for the journey through time.
Back in the city, the Basilica of San Simplicio anchors the tour to Olbia's medieval identity. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it remains one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Sardinia and a landmark of spiritual and civic heritage. The visit to the ruins of the castle of Pedres adds another layer to this encounter with the past.
The tour closes at a panoramic viewpoint above the Gulf of Olbia, where guests share a curated aperitif of local specialities. It is a fitting end that blends cultural discovery with the pleasure of Sardinian hospitality and landscape.
Tour Highlights
Explore the Cabu Abbas nuraghe, a well-preserved prehistoric complex set amid the Gallura countryside.
Visit the sacred well of Sa Testa, a nuragic water sanctuary tied to ancient ritual and belief.
Discover the tomb of the giants of Monte e S'Abe, a monumental collective burial site of the Bronze Age.
Tour the Basilica of San Simplicio, the medieval heart of Olbia and one of Sardinia's finest Romanesque churches.
Stop at a panoramic viewpoint above the Gulf of Olbia for sweeping coastal views.
Enjoy a curated aperitif of regional specialities to round off the day in true Sardinian style.
Walk through the Mediterranean maquis, a fragrant and biodiverse landscape framing each archaeological site.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a meeting with the guide followed by a walk through the historical centre of Olbia, including its churches and the Basilica of San Simplicio. This Romanesque landmark offers a grounding introduction to the city's long arc of history.
Drive to the Cabu Abbas nuraghe and the nearby sacred well of Sa Testa. A one-kilometre walk with an 80-metre elevation gain brings visitors through the maquis to these well-preserved nuragic structures, with approximately one hour on site.
Continue to the tomb of the giants of Monte e S'Abe, a monumental Bronze Age burial site, and then to the ruins of the medieval castle of Pedres. This section covers about one kilometre with a 70-metre elevation change and lasts approximately one and a half hours.
The tour concludes at a viewpoint overlooking the Gulf of Olbia, where guests enjoy an aperitif featuring local Sardinian specialities. It is a relaxed and scenic finale to a day of cultural and archaeological exploration.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional licensed guide for the full duration
- Guided visit to the Cabu Abbas nuraghe
- Guided visit to the sacred well of Sa Testa
- Guided visit to the tomb of the giants of Monte e S'Abe
- Visit to the ruins of the castle of Pedres
- Visit to the Basilica of San Simplicio and Olbia historical centre
- Aperitif of local Sardinian specialities at a panoramic viewpoint
Not Included
- Transport to and from the meeting point
- Personal travel insurance
- Any items of a personal nature
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Book Your Spot in Olbia
Secure your place on this half-day journey through the archaeological and medieval heritage of Gallura, and finish the day with a local aperitif above the Gulf of Olbia.
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