Renting a Car in Olbia: Essential Tips

Exploring Italy by car means freedom and the chance to discover small places at your own pace. However, the car rental market in Italy can feel complicated. On rental12.com we share honest, practical advice so your trip stays relaxed and predictable. 🚗✨

Our recommended partner: RENTSMART24.COM ✅

Use the code rental12 when booking and receive an extra 10% discount. Simple online booking, clear pricing, reliable service. 💡

Note: rental12.com is independent and not affiliated with RENTSMART24. Our recommendation is based on repeated positive feedback from guests and our own checks.

Understanding the Italian car rental market

Driving in Italy is straightforward for experienced drivers, but there are common pitfalls when it comes to rental cars. Frequent issues include unexpected fees at the counter, high deposits and long disputes over damage. The following tips help you avoid these problems.

Why you can trust this advice

We live and work locally in hospitality. This guidance is based on direct guest feedback, our own experiences and ongoing market checks. Our goal is simple: fair, reliable and up to date orientation. 🤝

Key points before you book

Be wary of “too cheap” offers: Extremely low prices often hide fees at the counter.
Check who the actual provider is: Brokers are not the real rental company. Verify the actual operator.
Clarify the insurance: Understand the excess and photograph the car thoroughly when you pick it up.
International Driving Permit: Non-EU licenses often require an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well.
ZTL zones: Avoid fines by learning about the ZTL rules in Olbia and parking near the historic center at our facility in Via Sassari 20.

Recommended car rental companies

These providers are consistently solid for our guests in Olbia:

RENTSMART24.COM
Avis
Sixt
Budget
Europcar
Hertz

Providers we tend to avoid

Based on repeated issues with fees or complaints:

AutoEuropa / Sicily by Car
CarTrawler
Goldcar
Green Motion
HolidayCars.com
Joyrent
Locauto
Noleggiare
OK Mobility

Simple step by step booking

Choose a provider from the list above or a reputable broker.
Double check pick up location and opening hours at Olbia Airport (OLB).
Use RENTSMART24 with the code rental12 for 10% off.

Extra tips that save time and money

Read recent reviews of the exact OLB branch where you will pick up the car.
Confirm fuel policy, mileage, deposit, additional drivers and insurance details.
Photograph the car at pick up and drop off from multiple angles.
Learn about ZTL and parking zones to avoid tickets.
Bring a physical credit card in the driver’s name.

Quick FAQ about car rental in Olbia

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

With a non-EU driving license many providers require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to the original license. Check this in the terms and conditions before booking.

How do ZTL zones work in Olbia?

ZTLs are restricted traffic zones monitored by cameras. Entering without permission leads to fines. You can find a detailed explanation here: Olbia ZTL explained.

Where can I park near the historic center?

Use our secure garage just outside the ZTL in Via Sassari 20. All information and booking: RENTAL12 Parking.

Which companies are the safest choice?

For Olbia we currently recommend: RENTSMART24, Avis, Sixt, Budget, Europcar and Hertz – based on repeated positive experiences from our guests.

What should I double check before paying?

Double check the deposit, excess, mileage limit, driver details and additional drivers. Note and photograph all existing damage before you leave the lot.

AZULIS_Villas_Golfo_Aranci_by_RENTAL12.jpg