Winter in Sardinia: Weather, Things to Do, Day Trips & Local Experiences
Bottom line: Winter in Sardinia is quiet, mild, authentic and deeply local. Expect 13–18°C days, empty beaches, excellent food, seasonal festivals, wine tastings in Gallura, olive oil mills in full production, easy hiking, and peaceful coastal towns. This is the best season for slow travel, long stays and discovering the real island.
Why Winter in Sardinia Is Special
Sardinia’s off-season (November to early April) is a peaceful, authentic and affordable period with mild temperatures, bright sunny days, fewer crowds and a deeper connection to local culture. With average daytime temperatures between 13°C and 18°C, winter feels more like northern Europe’s spring.
- Quiet beaches perfect for walks and photography
- Wine tastings in Gallura without summer crowds
- Olive oil mills in production (best time to visit!)
- Historic villages decorated for Christmas
- Mild hiking weather around Tavolara, San Pantaleo, Alà dei Sardi
- Authentic food experiences and winter specialties
- Great prices on long stays (see our winter rentals)
Winter Weather in Sardinia (Month by Month)
Thanks to Sardinia’s geography and the warmer Tyrrhenian Sea, winter here is gentle. Many guests are surprised by the amount of sunshine — between 4 and 6 daylight hours in midwinter, plus frequent clear skies.
- November: 17–22°C, long golden sunsets, perfect beach walks
- December: 14–18°C, Christmas markets, rural festivals
- January: 12–16°C, quietest month, great for hikes
- February: 13–17°C, almond trees begin to bloom
- March: 16–20°C, early spring light, ideal for outdoor trips
See our detailed climate reference table on winter in Sardinia.
Best Things to Do in Winter Around Olbia
1) Wine Tasting in Gallura
Winter is the perfect moment to explore Vermentino di Gallura wineries without summer crowds. Many estates stay open year-round and offer cellar tours, tastings, light lunches and pairing experiences.
- Visit estates in Monti, Berchidda, Arzachena and Calangianus
- Try Vermentino Superiore and Cannonau Riserva
- Combine with a visit to the Museo del Vino in Berchidda
2) Olive Oil Mills in Production
November to January is olive harvest season. Many frantoi (mills) welcome visitors for tastings of the year’s fresh “olio nuovo”. Expect peppery, bright-green oils and warm hospitality.
3) Day Trips to Tavolara & Capo Ceraso
While boat services are limited, winter offers empty viewpoints and crystal visibility. Hiking around Capo Figari, Capo Ceraso, Cala Moresca and Porto Istana is stunning this time of year.
4) Hot Springs & Wellness Days
- Terme di Rinaggiu (Tempio Pausania) natural springs
- Thermal pools in northern Sardinia (Santa Maria Coghinas)
- Local winter spa days in coastal resorts
5) Archaeology Without Crowds
Winter is ideal for exploring Sardinia’s ancient sites at your own pace:
- Nuraghe Riu Mulinu (Olbia)
- Giant’s Tombs in Arzachena
- Nuraghe La Prisgiona
- Sacred Well of Sa Testa
6) Christmas Markets & Local Festivals
From December onward, Olbia’s historic center lights up with seasonal decorations, music and food stalls. Inland villages such as Aggius, Bortigiadas and Calangianus offer warm, traditional winter events.
7) Photography & Empty Beaches
Winter is the season of dramatic skies and glowing sunsets. Pittulongu, Mare e Rocce, Cala Banana and La Playa are breathtaking and quiet. See our beach guide: Best beaches near Olbia.
FAQs About Winter in Sardinia
Is winter a good time to visit Sardinia?
Yes — mild weather, great food, fewer crowds and excellent prices make winter ideal for slow travel and long stays.
Are restaurants and shops open in winter?
Olbia stays open year-round. Coastal villages may be quieter but supermarkets, cafés and most traditional restaurants operate normally.
Can I swim in winter?
The sea is 14–17°C. Many swimmers enjoy cold-water dips; otherwise enjoy walks, sunsets and photography.