What's The Weather Like In Sardinia In January
Temperature
January is the predictably the coldest month in Sardinia, reaching an average temperature of around 10°C. During this time you can expect snow to fall on the mountains and stay there, giving rise to many picturesque photo opportunities if you choose to visit the mountainous regions of the Supramonte Mountains or the Gennargentu Mountains.
You can expect an average high temperature of around 14°C, generally around the coastal regions or inland in the south, and a low of around 6°C, with cool to cold evenings; a coat is definitely needed in January!
Sunshine Hours
Despite the lower temperatures, there is still plenty to explore in Sardinia during the first month of the year, with around 4 hours of average sunshine per day.
Sea Temperature
Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea is perhaps not to be advised during this time, as you can only expect to be greeted by 14°C, which isn't all that pleasant!
Rain
January is also in the heart of one of Sardinia's distinct rainy seasons, so you can expect around 18mm average throughout the month, generally falling centrally and in the north of the island, affecting 14 days of the month.
The weather might not be at its optimum during January in Sardinia, however city breaks in Cagliari are still very popular, and enjoying New Year festivities is also something you should look into.
Sardinia Hotels In January
Despite the fact that the amount of accommodation available in Sardinia is reduced during the winter period, especially in the tourist resorts, there are still plenty of hotels and apartments for rent if you are planning on enjoying everything the quieter season offers.
Carlos V Hotel
If you are staying in the north of the island, you will probably base yourself in Alghero. In that case, you have choices of accommodation, including the five star Carlos V Hotel. This hotel offers beautiful sea views and is within walking distance of everything you need. You could even choose a half board option if you don't want to venture too far.
Hotel Alma Di
Alternatively, Hotel Alma Di Alghero offers comfortable and modern surroundings.
T Hotel Cagliari
Perhaps you are staying in the capital, Cagliari, in which case the T Hotel Cagliari is a great choice. This is located centrally, on Piazza Giovanni XXIII, which basically means you're not going to have to walk too far to anything.
Sardinia Beaches For January
Porto Pollo
Generally speaking, the temperature of the Mediterranean Sea during this time of year does not particularly make for the best kind of beach day; however, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the wildness of the winter months on the coast, and you will generally experience better weather than you will inland. Porto Pollo, near Palau in the north of the island, is a very popular spot for surfers and kite-surfing, which can be enjoyed regardless of the time of year.
Bars And Restaurants
Choosing where to spend your evenings totally depends on where you're heading in Sardinia, but there's no denying that gastronomy is a major theme on the island. Sardinian's take their food and wine very seriously, which is great news for visitors.
Sabores
If you're in the capital, Cagliari, then Sabores is a great little stop off in the middle of shopping or sightseeing, with delicious deli sandwiches, perhaps with a glass of wine in sophisticated surroundings.
Agriturismo Candela
Alternatively, perhaps you're in exclusive Arzachena, in which case the rustic surroundings of Agriturismo Candela offers a great choice for a special occasion, with huge portions of local and Mediterranean dishes.
Il Giamaranto
If you are in Sassari then try Il Giamaranto, for real quality Italian food with seriously stylish presentation. This restaurant is very popular, and booking in advance is recommended.
Things To Do In Sardinia In January
Alghero
The first month of the year is obviously the start of New Year, and that means fun and festivities in Sardinia. You will find events happening all over the island, and if you are visiting during the New Year period, you should consider heading to Alghero in the north for the big night/first day of the year. Here you will find live music in many of the large piazzas around the area, especially in the picturesque old town, with a firework display lighting up the harbour.
Bogamari Sea Urchin Festival
On top of this, for something a little different, January is the start of the Bogamari Sea Urchin Festival, also in Alghero. If you've never tried sea urchins, this is your chance to give them a go, with freshly cooked bread and a glass of wine to wash it down. This is a traditional dish, and many restaurants reflect that during this festival.
Cagliari Cathedral & Teatro Lirico
If you prefer to visit the capital city to start your year off with a bang, Cagliari has plenty to keep you occupied. As well as the typical city-life things you can do, such as shopping and wonderful gastronomy, Cagliari has some beautiful architecture and history to explore, such as Cagliari Cathedral, and Teatro Lirico, to name just two. Built upwards from the coast, this is a pretty city to photograph too.
La Rinascente
Of course, you are going to want to shop a little, and the January sales may mean even more excuse! Cagliari has many narrow, cobbled streets with boutiques to explore, however, La Rinascente is the place to be for fashion, beauty, and homeware.
