European destination with new BA flights that used to have ‘dolphin currency’ and has the best beach in the world

A EUROPEAN destination that used to have a ‘dolphin currency’ and is close to the world’s best beach is now even more accessible from the UK.

British Airways will soon launch flights to Olbia – a coastal Italian town located in Sardinia.

GettyOlbia sits on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia[/caption] AlamyThe ‘dolphin currency’ used in the town pre-dated coin currency[/caption]

Whilst known for being a port and airport town, Olbia has a long history.

In fact, the town used to have a dolphin currency, which was dolphin-shaped coins, also known as Olbia dolphins.

Originally used as sacrificial objects for the worship of Apollo, the Olbia dolphins were later used as a form of currency for the ancient Greek colony of Olbia, before coins existed.

At its historic core, Olbia has an archeological museum and two churches.

The museum was first opened in the 1980s, but since has been a work in progress since.

It is home to local artefacts, from Roman amulets to pottery, and even the relic of a Roman vessel discovered in the old port.

The Chiesa di San Paolo church is built on the site of an ancient temple, has a multi-coloured dome and a stone exterior.

The town’s other significant church – the Basilica minore di San Simplicio – sits just outside the heart of town and is a Romanesque granite church dating back to the eleventh century.

Away from the more historical attractions is Corso Umberto – a lively shop-lined street, which leads uphill from the waterfront.

Piazza Margherita is also well-known in the town and is often considered the hub of the town.

Many narrow lanes lead off this hub, featuring old buildings and little squares.

In the summer months, visitors can head out on a day-long boat excursion to explore the coast and nearby resorts.

The town boats plenty of places to stay and places to eat, so visitors won’t be short of choice.

Many of the town’s restaurants serve local dishes, including locally-made wine.

Away from Olbia town, Sardinia also boasts the world’s best beach.

GettyThe town features history builds. piazzas and narrow winding alleys[/caption]

Recently named on the top 50 best beaches in the world list, Cala Goloritzè features unique rock formations and white sand and pebbles.

The beach is about a two-and-a-half hour drive from Olbia, so would be a good day trip when exploring the rest of the Sardinina.

Flights direct from the UK take around two-and-a-half hours.

The new British Airways direct flight route from London City to Olbia, Sardinia will operate weekly from May 25 and increase to twice weekly from July 16 to September 28.

Also in Italy is a little-known town, which has been dubbed the ‘city of ice cream’, with £15 UK flights.

Plus, the European seaside town is selling breaks for 84p.

GettyBritish Airways flights from London City Airport will launch to the destination in May[/caption]