Driving in Sardinia: Everything You Need to Know About ZTL Zones in Olbia, Cagliari, Porto Cervo, and Porto Rotondo

Planning to rent a car in Sardinia? Whether you're arriving in Olbia, exploring the coastlines near Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, or navigating the lively streets of Cagliari, understanding ZTL zones is key to a smooth, stress-free journey. At Rental12.com, we consistently rank among the top-rated hosts in Sardinia for guest driving support — and this guide is part of why. 💡

What Are ZTL Zones in Sardinia?

ZTL stands for Zona a Traffico Limitato, or "Limited Traffic Zone." These areas are common in Italian cities and are designed to protect the beauty and walkability of historic centers. In Sardinia, ZTLs are strictly enforced — and entering one without authorization can result in automatic fines of €65 or more, plus processing fees from your rental car company.

Important: Cameras monitor ZTL entrances, and fines are issued automatically even if you’re unaware you've entered a restricted area.

Where Are ZTL Zones Located in Sardinia?

🚗 Olbia

The ZTL in Olbia covers much of the old town, including Corso Umberto I, Via Regina Elena, Via delle Terme, and the areas surrounding Piazza Margherita. These streets are pedestrian-only during most hours of the day and evening, especially in summer. Seasonal rules may apply. Read our full Olbia ZTL guide.

🚙 Porto Cervo

In peak summer, Porto Cervo enforces temporary ZTL rules in the pedestrian zone around the main square, the marina, and the Promenade du Port. Keep an eye on updated signs, especially in July and August.

🅿️ Porto Rotondo

This elegant harbor town also restricts vehicle access in central areas near the marina and main piazza during high season. Streets become pedestrian-only in the evenings or on weekends.

🏙️ Cagliari

The capital city has multiple ZTLs in areas like the Castello district and around the Marina quarter. Signage is visible, but entrances may be narrow and easily missed — so stay alert, especially when using a GPS.

Tourists and ZTLs: Can You Enter?

Tourists cannot drive into most ZTL zones unless your accommodation has registered your license plate with the local authorities. Rental12 properties do not provide ZTL access—but we offer an even better solution.

🚘 Smart Parking: The Rental12 Advantage

For guests staying in Olbia’s historic center, we offer private, secure, gated parking with video surveillance at Via Sassari 20—located just outside the ZTL zone. It’s a quick 3-minute walk from most of our listings. Book parking in advance via rental12.com/parking and avoid fines, stress, and traffic.

✅ With this setup, you can drive into town, park safely, and walk to your apartment without ever entering a ZTL zone. It’s one of the reasons Rental12 guests consistently give us 5-star ratings for ease of arrival and location.

🧭 Essential Tips for Driving in Sardinia

• 📍 Use apps that highlight ZTLs, like Waze or ViaMichelin—not just Google Maps.
• 🚫 Look for the ZTL sign: a white circle with a red border — do NOT enter unless authorized.
• 🕐 Respect time-based restrictions: even if the ZTL is open during the day, it may close at night.
• 🅿️ When in doubt, park outside the center and walk in—it’s often quicker.
• 📄 Keep all rental documents and parking info printed or saved to your phone.
• 📞 When staying with Rental12, just ask us—we’ll tell you the safest route to your apartment.

🛡️ Final Word: Avoid Fines, Enjoy More

Each year, thousands of tourists in Sardinia receive ZTL fines without even realizing it. But not you 😉 — because you planned ahead with Rental12. With our secure parking solutions, guest support, and local expertise, you can drive with confidence and make the most of your stay.

Need help with directions or parking? Contact us any time, or visit the Olbia Municipality site for official updates.

For full legal definitions and active ZTL maps across Sardinia, see the official mobility portal of the Regione Autonoma della Sardegna: Sardegna Mobilita – Mobilità e Trasporti and Autonomous Region of Sardinia: regione.sardegna.it – Mobilità e Trasporti