Bars & Aperitivo in Olbia, Golfo Aranci & Porto Rotondo
The Bottom Line: If you love sunset drinks, crafted cocktails, and authentic wine bars, the Olbia–Golfo Aranci–Porto Rotondo area is arguably one of the best destinations in North East Sardinia. From relaxed boulevard cafés and harbor-view terraces to intimate wine bars tucked into stone alleys and late-night cocktail lounges, this guide helps you find the perfect spot for every mood. Best of all, many of these gems are within easy reach of our Rental12 apartments & villas, allowing you to enjoy the night without worrying about long drives.
Stay close to your favorite bar streets and waterfront promenades: explore all properties in Olbia & North East Sardinia or use the crawlable property index to filter by area. Driving into town? Reserve private parking at Via Sassari 20 and review Olbia parking & ZTL rules before your aperitivo.
Spirits Boutique (Olbia)
Spirits Boutique is Olbia’s reference point for serious mixology. Tucked in the city, it feels like a curated living room with a backlit wall of premium bottles.
Expect classic cocktails prepared with surgical precision, original signatures, and a deep selection of rare gins and rums.
Insider Tip: Ask the bartenders for a recommendation based on your mood—they love guiding guests through their extensive whiskey and gin collection. Perfect for a refined pre-dinner drink.
Zenit (Olbia Waterfront)
Zenit sits directly on the waterfront boulevard near Olbia’s harbor. The focus is simple: relaxed atmosphere, outdoor tables facing the sea, and straightforward drinks.
It is the ideal spot to watch the massive ferries arrive and depart while enjoying a cold Ichnusa or a Spritz.
Insider Tip: Families love the open space here, as children can walk safely on the pedestrian boulevard while parents relax.
Seamphony Terrace (Olbia)
Seamphony Terrace is all about the view. Perched along the waterfront, it offers a front-row seat to Olbia’s gulf. In summer, this is one of the most scenic spots for a sunset drink, especially if you appreciate chilled white wines, bubbles, or a classic Aperol Spritz accompanied by light bar food.
The Wine Club (Olbia)
The Wine Club is a cozy, contemporary wine bar prioritizing quality. Expect a thoughtful list of Sardinian labels—especially Vermentino di Gallura and Cannonau. The intimate interior features shelves of bottles serving as décor. It’s a calm alternative to louder bars, perfect for couples.
Cafè Gregorio (Olbia)
Cafè Gregorio is a versatile all-day bar where you can start with a cappuccino and return for evening cocktails. Located near Viale Aldo Moro, it serves as a convenient "base" bar. The atmosphere is friendly and local, mixing residents with visitors effortlessly.
Cafè Bellavista (Olbia)
Cafè Bellavista offers open views and light-filled space. By day it’s a classic bar; by evening it’s a relaxed aperitivo spot. It is a solid choice for straightforward pricing, good coffee, and friendly service. A great meeting point before heading deeper into town.
Kemàni – Villa Sara (Olbia)
Kemàni – Villa Sara blends the feel of a wine bar with an elegant lounge. Located in a residential area, it feels more like a "villa garden," making it perfect for warm evenings. Expect a strong wine selection and cocktails that lean toward the classic side.
In Vino Veritas (Olbia)
In Vino Veritas sits at the entrance to the historic center. Part wine shop, part bar, it offers shelves of Italian and international bottles. Drop in for an aperitivo with a cheese board, or pick up a bottle to enjoy at your Rental12 apartment.
Art Academy (Olbia)
Art Academy fuses art, music, and mixology. Depending on the night, you might find live music, DJ sets, or exhibitions. It has a more "urban" feel than other spots, with drinks ranging from classic spritz to experimental combinations.
Mary Café Bistrot (Olbia)
Mary Café Bistrot feels like a neighborhood living room. Approachable for breakfast, lunch, or a relaxed aperitivo. If you prefer a quiet drink with good small plates rather than loud nightlife, this is your spot.
Friends (Olbia)
Friends (Avenue Friends) is a hub on Viale Aldo Moro. In the evening, this avenue becomes a promenade, and Friends anchors it with outdoor tables and music. Expect a broad menu of cocktails and snacks, popular with young locals and groups.
Planet Cafè (Olbia)
Planet Cafè is a reliable neighborhood favorite on Aldo Moro. Practical rather than design-driven, it’s a real Sardinian bar. Strong coffee by day, Spritz by night. A great place to feel the daily pulse of Olbia.
The Green Life (Olbia)
The Green Life leans toward healthy: fresh juices, salads, and lighter plates. Located near Via Cavour, the setting is bright and modern, perfect for a low-key aperitivo if you want a break from fried snacks.
Cafè Nina (San Pantaleo)
Cafè Nina sits in the square of San Pantaleo, the artisan village. By evening, it becomes one of the most atmospheric spots in the region. Tables under trees, glowing stone houses, and local wines make this a magical stop on your way back from the Costa Smeralda.
L’Ostrica Ubriaca (Golfo Aranci)
L’Ostrica Ubriaca boasts one of the best rooftop bars in Golfo Aranci. The terrace overlooks the sea and harbor, offering spectacular sunsets where the sky turns deep pink. Specializing in bubbles, white wines, and elegant cocktails, it’s the perfect choice for a celebratory evening or your final night in Sardinia.
Gintoneria Clipper (Golfo Aranci)
Clipper is a Golfo Aranci institution. Known as a gintoneria, it specializes in premium gin-based cocktails served in a nautical atmosphere. Located close to the seafront, it’s a great place to explore Mediterranean botanicals in your glass before or after dinner.
Banchina 13 (Golfo Aranci)
Banchina 13 captures the classic seaside bar feeling near the marina. Tables face the boats with a gentle breeze. Aperitivo here is honest and simple: spritz, local wines, and straightforward snacks. A relaxed alternative to the rooftop bars.
Tartarughino (Porto Rotondo)
Tartarughino is a legend in Porto Rotondo. Overlooking the marina, it hosts well-dressed crowds for aperitivo that often stretches into late-night dinner and drinks. The vibe is unmistakably Costa Smeralda: energetic, stylish, and fun.
Country Club (Porto Rotondo)
Country Club is a night venue known for DJ sets and a club-like atmosphere. It’s where nights often end. Note that dress codes can be stricter here, and it caters more to adults and nightlife lovers than families.
Ira Beach Club & Nearby Bars
Around Ira Beach, you will find clubs that transition from day to sunset. These are classic spots: turquoise water by day, aperitivo with feet in the sand by evening. Photogenic and relaxing, these spots are perfect for couples and groups wanting to soak in the Costa Smeralda light.
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Practical Tips for Bars & Aperitivo
- Timing: Aperitivo usually runs from about 18:00 to 20:30. Many bars stay open much later in summer.
- Kids: Children are generally welcome at outdoor tables early in the evening, especially in Olbia and Golfo Aranci.
- Driving: Plan a driver or taxi if you move between towns. Our guide to parking & ZTL helps you avoid fines.
- Dress code: Smart casual is usually enough, though clubs like Country Club can feel more dressy in August.
- Food: Many bars offer small aperitivo plates. For full dinners, see our restaurant guide.
- Seasonality: Olbia’s bars are more year-round, while Golfo Aranci and Porto Rotondo are more seasonal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does aperitivo usually start in Olbia?
Most bars start serving aperitivo from around 18:00. In high summer, the rhythm shifts later and many people arrive closer to 19:00–19:30.
Are children welcome in bars for aperitivo?
Yes. At outdoor tables and in earlier evening hours, children are widely accepted. Many families enjoy a spritz or soft drink together before dinner.
Do bars charge a cover or coperto for aperitivo?
Most bars do not add a separate cover charge for drinks, but some aperitivo formulas include a plate of snacks and are priced slightly higher.
Do I need to reserve a table at bars in summer?
For regular bars in Olbia, reservations are rarely necessary. For scenic rooftops in Golfo Aranci and Porto Rotondo in August, it helps to call ahead.
Is it possible to do a bar “crawl” on foot from a Rental12 apartment?
Yes. Many Rental12 apartments in Olbia are within walking distance of several bars, especially around the historic center, the port and Viale Aldo Moro.
What should I drink for a “local” aperitivo?
Typical choices include a glass of Vermentino di Gallura, a classic Aperol Spritz, a Negroni, or a simple Ichnusa beer.
Are non-alcoholic options common in bars?
Yes. Soft drinks, juices, non-alcoholic beers, and increasingly zero-alcohol cocktails are widely available.
Can I bring my dog to bars in Olbia and Golfo Aranci?
In most cases, yes – especially at outdoor tables. Sardinians are generally very fond of animals. Keep your dog on a lead.
Is tipping expected at bars in Sardinia?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Locals usually round up the bill or leave a small amount if service was especially friendly.
What is the dress code for rooftop bars?
Smart casual works well: shirts or polos, summer dresses. Beachwear is not appropriate at night in upscale venues.
How late do bars stay open in Olbia in low season?
In shoulder and winter months, many bars close around midnight. The city remains livelier than coastal villages.
Are there winter bars open in Golfo Aranci and Porto Rotondo?
Most seafront nightlife is seasonal. For reliable year-round options, base yourself in Olbia.
Is it safe to walk back to my apartment after drinks in Olbia?
Olbia’s central areas are generally safe and well-lit. Use normal city awareness, avoid very isolated shortcuts.
Can I pay by card in bars?
Most bars accept cards, but carrying some cash for small purchases is useful. Contactless payments are increasingly common.
Can I order food-only during aperitivo without drinks?
Yes, although the classic formula is a drink with small bites. Consider a restaurant for a full meal.
Where should I stay if I want nightlife but also easy day trips?
Olbia is the most practical base: it has year-round bars, good restaurants, easy access to beaches, ferries, and the airport.
How do I combine wine tastings with evening bars without driving?
Plan winery visits during the day with a designated driver or organized tour, then enjoy bars on foot in the evening.