Olbia is where most visitors to Sardinia's north-east arrive. The airport and the ferry port are both close to the town, and the coast beyond leads to the Costa Smeralda, the Gulf of Arzachena and the island of Tavolara. Mercure Olbia Hotel & Spa works well as a practical base for that reason. It is a branded business-and-leisure hotel, with the consistent standards, air-conditioned rooms and on-site services that travellers expect from an international chain, plus a spa in the name that suits the days after a long beach or boat trip. The setting is more convenient than romantic, which is its strength. Olbia itself is a working port town with a small historic centre, a Roman and Pisan past, a handful of good seafood restaurants and the lively Corso Umberto. Staying here means short transfers for early flights and ferries, easy access to rental cars and a wide choice of day trips by road or sea.
Location and getting around
Olbia sits at the top of a long inlet on the north-east coast, and the hotel is placed to make the most of the town's road links. The airport is a short drive away, the ferry terminal is close and the roads to Porto Cervo, Arzachena and Golfo Aranci all start here. Check the exact distance to the centre, the port and the beaches when you book, since they vary by route. Many day-trip operators collect guests from Olbia hotels, so you may not need a car for tours.
The rooms and facilities
Expect modern, comfortable rooms with air conditioning, a work desk, a private bathroom and good soundproofing. A breakfast buffet is typically available, and the hotel has a restaurant and bar. The spa and wellness area is a useful extra on hot days or rainy afternoons. Wi-Fi, reception staff who speak several languages and luggage storage are standard features. Parking is usually available, but confirm the arrangement and any charge when you book.
Who it suits and what to know: it suits travellers with early or late flights, couples on a road trip around the island, and families who want predictable rooms and services between beach days. It is less suited to those who want a seafront resort or a beachfront setting, because the town is a transit hub and the best beaches are a short drive away.
In summer, rooms sell quickly, so book early. Outside summer, rates fall and the hotel is a sensible base for exploring the archaeology and wine villages of Gallura. Ask the hotel about late check-out if you have an evening ferry.
Why stay here
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Spa and wellness area
- ✓On-site restaurant and bar
- ✓Breakfast buffet
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Parking (check when you book)
- ✓24-hour reception
- ✓Luggage storage
Good questions
Is the hotel good for early flights and ferries?+
Yes, Olbia's airport and ferry port are both close. Check the exact transfer time and arrange transport in advance for very early departures.
Can I reach the beaches from here?+
Pittulongu and the beaches of the Gulf of Olbia are a short drive away, and many tours to Costa Smeralda, Tavolara and La Maddalena collect guests in town.
Does the hotel have parking?+
Parking is usually available, but confirm the arrangement and any charge when you book.
