Sardinia is not only the ideal destination for summer holidays. Even in winter, this wonderful island offers plenty of entertainment opportunities, especially during end-of-year festivities. In this guide, we have selected some unmissable destinations to spend Christmas and New Year’s Eve on one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.
Towns and villages to visit on Christmas and New Year
One of the most recommended destinations to spend both Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Sardinia is certainly Cagliari: this regional capital, neglected in summer in favour of the coastal resorts, has a great artistic and cultural tradition. This tradition is expressed, at the end of the year, through Christmas markets, events, concerts and the traditional end of the year celebrations, which take place in the main town square.
Alghero is particularly famous for its winter celebrations that culminate in New Year’s Eve celebrations. In December, in fact, the city hosts the great feast of the Cap d’Any a l’Alguer, which attracts tens of thousands of people from the island and beyond. This event includes cultural events, shows and concerts every year. On New Year’s Eve, the event culminates with the most famous New Year’s Eve party in Sardinia, with concerts, fireworks and various shows.
Another beautiful place where you can spend New Year’s Eve is located in the north and is called Stintino: it is famous for the Pelosa beach, very crowded in summer. In winter, this beach looks quite different, and on New Year’s Eve it gets crowded to see the wonderful pyrotechnic show.
New Year’s Eve is also a special time in Castelsardo, an ancient village located in the north of the island. Its medieval atmospheremakes it particularly magical at this time of year, when it usually hosts leading figures from the Italian music scene.
Markets, spas, music and gastronomy
Among the most beautiful Christmas markets are those of Cagliari and Alghero, where you can taste delicious local specialities and find original gift ideas, linked to the traditions of the area. On the other hand, for New Year’s Eve celebrations, we cannot forget Olbia: this city celebrates New Year’s Eve in grand style, with fun, luxury and live music .
If you are looking for an alternative to the usual end-of-year celebrations, spas may be the best option for you. In Sardinia, there are wonderful spas such as Sardara, Casteldoria, Fordongianus that organise special New Year’s Eve days, with tasting of local products and irresistible wellness treatments.
A further alternative is the White Week: although the island is commonly associated with sun and sea, it should not be forgotten that Sardinia also has snow! You could ski on the slopes of Gennargentu, a great way to open the new year.
If you want to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve in Sardinia, taking part in events and attractions this region offers during holidays, check out our many offers to enjoy Christmas holidays with your family or friends, on one of Italy’s most beautiful islands.