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Travelling with Pets in Olbia
🇮🇹Olbia, Italy·Updated 19 June 2026
Olbia is Sardinia's main arrival point, with a busy ferry port and the Costa Smeralda airport, so most pet travellers reach it by sea or air. On land, ARST runs the regional and urban buses, and the rules for dogs are specific: small dogs travel free in an approved carrier, while medium and large dogs need a leash and a muzzle on board.
| Mode | Policy | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| ARST Bus (urban & regional) | Small dogs travel free in an approved carrier (max 50x30x25 cm). Medium and large dogs are allowed on the floor next to the passenger but must wear a leash and a muzzle and be registered in the canine registry. One dog per passenger. | 💡 Carry a muzzle for any medium or large dog even if it never normally wears one. Drivers can refuse boarding without it |
| Ferry to/from Olbia port | Moby, Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines all carry dogs to Olbia. Dogs need a ticket and valid documents; they are allowed on external decks and in a limited number of pet-friendly cabins (Grimaldi charges around 10 EUR per cabin). Pets are not allowed in common indoor areas. | 💡 Book a pet-friendly cabin early. They are few and sell out fast on summer crossings to and from Olbia |
| Taxi | Taxis in Olbia accept dogs at the driver's discretion. Small dogs in a carrier are rarely refused; for a larger dog, mention it when booking by phone. Drivers may ask for the dog to be muzzled or to sit on a blanket. | 💡 For airport or port transfers with a large dog, phone-book in advance and confirm the dog is accepted |
Arriving in Sardinia with a pet
EU-registered pets entering Italy need a valid EU pet passport, a microchip and an up-to-date rabies vaccination. Non-EU pets need an EU health certificate plus microchip and rabies vaccination. Ferry operators (Moby, Tirrenia, Grimaldi) and airlines flying into Olbia Costa Smeralda each have their own pet rules, so check documents and book any pet cabin or hold space before departure. ARST regional buses connect the port and airport to the centre and onward to Costa Smeralda towns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my dog on ARST buses in Olbia?
Yes. Small dogs travel free in an approved carrier (max 50x30x25 cm). Medium and large dogs are allowed on the floor beside you but must wear a leash and muzzle and be registered in the canine registry. Only one dog per passenger.
Can dogs travel on the ferry to Olbia?
Yes. Moby, Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines all carry dogs to Olbia with a ticket and valid documents. They travel on external decks or in a limited number of pet-friendly cabins, which sell out fast in summer, so book early.
What documents does my pet need to enter Sardinia?
EU pets need an EU pet passport, microchip and current rabies vaccination. Non-EU pets need an EU health certificate plus microchip and rabies vaccination. The same rules apply whether you arrive by ferry or by air at Olbia Costa Smeralda.
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Olbia
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
Antica Caresi B&B
★★★ · 9/10
€64/night
Gemma Di Gallura Charme B&B
★★★ · 8.6/10
€76/night
Tramas Hotel & Spa
★★★★ · 8.7/10
€150/night
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