Car Hire in Porto Rotondo
Porto Rotondo sits on Sardinia’s stunning north-eastern coastline and is just 14 kilometres from Olbia Airport, around a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic. The village is famous for its turquoise bays, sheltered coves, relaxed marina life and a compact, walkable centre. Hiring a car makes getting here incredibly easy and gives you complete freedom to discover the beaches and coastal roads of the Costa Smeralda at your own pace.
Getting to Porto Rotondo from Olbia Airport
The fastest route from Olbia Airport to Porto Rotondo is the SS125 towards Golfo Aranci, followed by local coastal roads into the village. The roads are well maintained, clearly signposted and straightforward even for first-time visitors. Most car hire companies have desks inside the airport terminal, so you can be on the road shortly after landing.
Parking in Porto Rotondo
Parking is available around the marina and in designated blue-line bays. During July and August spaces can fill up quickly, so arriving early or later in the evening makes life easier.
Why Hire a Car for Porto Rotondo?
Public transport in this part of Sardinia is limited, and taxis can be expensive during summer. A hire car gives you the flexibility to visit nearby beaches, explore quiet coves and reach neighbouring towns without relying on timetables.
Ideal for beach hopping
Many of the best beaches around Porto Rotondo, including Spiaggia Ira, Punta Volpe and Spiaggia dei Sassi, are easiest to reach with a car.
Access to the entire Costa Smeralda
With your own hire car you can explore Porto Cervo, Baia Sardinia, San Pantaleo and the wild cliffs north of Golfo Aranci.
Freedom for day trips
Having a rental opens up easy trips to Palau, La Maddalena and the rocky coastline of Capo d’Orso.
Car Hire with Rhino Car Hire
We compare prices from trusted car rental suppliers at Olbia Airport to help you find the right vehicle for your trip. Whether you need a compact car for the narrow village roads or a larger SUV for family travel, there are plenty of options available throughout the year.
What you get with your booking:
Clear, competitive pricing
A wide range of vehicles
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Unlimited mileage with most suppliers
24/7 customer support should you need help on the road
Booking early is strongly recommended during June to September, when demand across the Costa Smeralda is at its highest.
Best Things to See and Do with a Hire Car
Beaches around Porto Rotondo
Visit spotless bays such as Spiaggia Ira, Punta Asfodeli and Spiaggia di Marinella, each offering soft sand and crystal-clear water.
Porto Rotondo Marina
Enjoy a relaxed walk along the waterfront, browse boutique shops or enjoy dinner overlooking the harbour.
Coastal drives
Drive north to Porto Cervo for luxury shops, pristine beaches and dramatic viewpoints, or south to Olbia for historic churches and lively restaurants.
Sardinian cuisine
Use your hire car to reach countryside agriturismos where you can try local dishes like porceddu, fregola with seafood and regional wines.
Distances from Porto Rotondo
Olbia
10 miles
Porto Cervo
15 miles
Golfo Aranci
20 miles
Palau
25 miles
La Maddalena (via ferry from Palau)
30 miles
Porto Rotondo Car Hire FAQs
Do I need a car in Porto Rotondo?
Yes, especially if you want to visit beaches and explore the Costa Smeralda. Public transport is limited.
Is parking easy in Porto Rotondo?
Outside peak summer months it’s straightforward. In July and August it’s best to arrive early or later in the evening.
Can I drive on Sardinia’s ZTL (restricted) roads?
Some historic centres in Sardinia have ZTL zones. Always respect local signage to avoid fines.
Is driving in Sardinia easy?
Yes. Roads are well maintained, though coastal routes can be narrow and winding.
How far is Porto Rotondo from Olbia Airport?
Around 14 kilometres, typically a 20–30 minute drive.
Start Your Porto Rotondo Trip
Book your hire car today and enjoy the freedom to explore Porto Rotondo, the surrounding beaches and the wider Costa Smeralda at your own pace.