Transport Guide
How to Get to Ogliastra
Sardinia's most authentic and wild corner is waiting for you. Discover the best way to reach it: by plane, by ferry, or by car along the spectacular SS125.
By Plane
Three airports serve Ogliastra, with significant differences in connectivity and distance.
Cagliari-Elmas
Mario Mameli Airport
Sardinia's main hub with year-round domestic and international flights. Connected to major Italian and European cities by Ryanair, easyJet, Volotea and ITA Airways.
Olbia-Costa Smeralda
International Airport
Sardinia's second busiest airport, with strong seasonal low-cost presence (spring–summer). A great option if you're arriving from northern Europe or mainland Italy in the summer months.
Tortolì-Arbatax
Tortolì Airport
The local airport right in the heart of Ogliastra — wonderfully convenient but with limited seasonal flights. Neos operates summer charters from select northern Italian cities. Always check availability before planning.
⚠️ Always verify seasonal flight availability
By Ferry
The ferry crossing is an experience in itself: leave in the evening, wake up in Sardinia.
Port of Arbatax
Tortolì, Ogliastra
The most direct and convenient option: Tirrenia operates overnight ferries from Civitavecchia (Rome). Depart in the evening, arrive in Arbatax in the morning — right in the heart of Ogliastra. Cabins, reclining seats, and car transport all available.
Port of Cagliari
Cagliari, Sardinia
Port with excellent connections from Naples, Palermo and Civitavecchia (Tirrenia, GNV). After docking, follow the scenic SS125 northwards. A great choice if you also want to visit Cagliari.
Then ~2h by car via SS125 Orientale Sarda
Port of Olbia
Olbia, Sardinia
Sardinia's busiest port with frequent connections from Genoa, Livorno and Civitavecchia (Moby, Grimaldi, GNV). Ideal if you're coming from northern Italy or want to explore the Costa Smeralda too.
Then ~2.5h by car via SS125 / SS389
By Car
The SS125 Orientale Sarda is one of the most scenic coastal roads in Italy.
Driving times
- From Cagliari ~2 hrs
- From Olbia ~2.5 hrs
- From Nuoro ~1.5 hrs
- From Sassari ~3 hrs
🛣️ SS125 Orientale Sarda
Sardinia's most scenic coastal road. It runs parallel to the island's eastern coast between cliffs, coves, and the scent of Mediterranean scrubland. Take it slowly — every bend is a view.
- ⛽ Petrol stations in Tortolì, Lanusei, Bari Sardo
- 🔧 Mechanics available in Tortolì and Lanusei
- 📡 Variable mobile coverage in mountainous areas
🚘 Car Rental
A car is essential for freely exploring Ogliastra, especially the wild beaches and inland villages. Rental is available at:
- ✅ Tortolì Airport
- ✅ Tortolì town centre
- ✅ Cagliari Airport (more choice)
- ✅ Olbia Airport (more choice)
Book in advance during peak season (July–August)
Local Transport
Getting around without a car is possible, but requires planning.
ARST
Regional Buses
The Sardinian Regional Transport Company connects the main towns of Ogliastra with each other and with Cagliari, Nuoro and Olbia. Reduced frequencies — best for travel between main urban centres.
arst.sardegna.it →Trenino Verde
Seasonal Tourist Railway
A Sardinian icon: the narrow-gauge railway winds through breathtaking scenery of forests, mountains, and valleys. Running in summer on selected routes. A unique tourist experience — not everyday transport.
treninoverde.com →Rental Car
Recommended for the interior
To reach Cala Goloritzé, the Gorropu Gorge, the Nuragic villages of the interior and the more hidden beaches, a car is practically indispensable. Many inland roads are not served by public transport.
Arrival Map
Airports, ports and the final destination: Ogliastra.
Ready to go?
Now that you know how to get here, plan your Ogliastra adventure.