Guided Tour of Olbia: History, Nuraghi & Scenic Aperitif4.7(590 Reviews)5 hours
From€77.50per person
Listing ID : 57493
4.7(590 Reviews)
Guided Tour of Olbia: History, Nuraghi & Scenic Aperitif
5hDuration
English, Spanish, ItalianSpeaking Guide
Mobile ticketAccepted
About this experience
Duration6 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtOlbia
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish, Italian
Guided Archaeological Tour — Olbia, Sardinia
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
1
Meeting and Olbia Historical Centre
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.
2
Cabu Abbas Nuraghe and Sa Testa Sacred Well
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.
3
Tomb of the Giants and Castle of Pedres
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.
4
Panoramic Viewpoint and Aperitif
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
The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection for outdoor segments.
Duration
6 hours total. Walking segments are rated easy, with distances of approximately 1 km per site and elevation gains of 70–80 metres.
What to Bring
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a light layer for cooler conditions in elevated areas.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. The itinerary may be adjusted due to adverse weather conditions.
Accessibility
The tour involves walking on natural, uneven terrain at archaeological sites. It is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility limitations.
Age Range
The tour is suitable for participants of most ages given its easy difficulty rating. Children should be accompanied by an adult at all times on site.
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.
What archaeological sites are visited on this tour? ▼
The tour visits the Cabu Abbas nuraghe, the sacred well of Sa Testa, and the tomb of the giants of Monte e S'Abe, as well as the ruins of the medieval castle of Pedres and the Basilica of San Simplicio in central Olbia.
How physically demanding is this tour? ▼
The tour is rated easy. Each walking segment covers approximately one kilometre with elevation differences of 70 to 80 metres, making it accessible to most participants in reasonable health.
What does the aperitif include? ▼
The aperitif features local Sardinian specialities and is enjoyed at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Gulf of Olbia. Specific items may vary depending on the season and availability.
Can the itinerary change on the day of the tour? ▼
Yes, the itinerary is subject to modification based on weather conditions. The guide will make necessary adjustments to ensure safety and an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Is transport between sites included? ▼
Transport between the city centre and the archaeological sites in the surrounding area is part of the tour logistics, as the sites are located outside the urban centre of Olbia. Personal transport to the meeting point is not included.
Is this tour suitable for children? ▼
Given the easy difficulty level, children can participate when accompanied by an adult. The walking distances are manageable, though natural terrain at archaeological sites requires careful supervision of young participants.
Olbia TourSardinia ArchaeologyNuragic SitesGallura HeritageGuided Walking TourTomb of the GiantsCabu AbbasBasilica San SimplicioMediterranean MaquisGulf of OlbiaSardinia HistoryCultural Day Trip
This tour is set in Olbia, the main gateway city of north-eastern Sardinia, within the Gallura sub-region. Gallura is known for its granite landscapes, Mediterranean maquis, and one of the highest concentrations of nuragic monuments in Sardinia. The tour connects central Olbia — including the medieval Basilica of San Simplicio — with surrounding archaeological sites such as Cabu Abbas, Sa Testa, and Monte e S'Abe, all located within a short drive of the city. The panoramic finale overlooks the Gulf of Olbia, a sheltered inlet that has been a strategic maritime point since Phoenician and Roman times. This region draws visitors interested in prehistory, Romanesque architecture, and authentic Sardinian culture beyond the coastal resorts.
Location: Olbia, Gallura, North-Eastern Sardinia, Italy | Tour Type: Guided Archaeological and Cultural Walking Tour | Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 6 Hours | Sites: Cabu Abbas Nuraghe, Sa Testa Sacred Well, Tomb of the Giants Monte e S'Abe, Castle of Pedres, Basilica of San Simplicio | Experience Includes: Local Aperitif, Panoramic Viewpoint, Mediterranean Maquis Walk | Ideal For: History Enthusiasts, Culture Travelers, Families, First-Time Sardinia Visitors
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