15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in February
Searching for the best places to visit in Europe in February? Keep reading to discover which places are best during this winter month!
Escape the cold winter days and discover the beauty and magic of Europe in February. Whether you want to enjoy warm sun sunny days or winter wonderlands, Europe has it all. From beaches to old towns to cultural hotspots, you will find all of this and more below.
February is one of my favorite months to travel in Europe. I have always encountered amazing weather in Southern cities and mild temperatures up North. Plus in February there have always been fewer crowds, meaning you can travel to some of the most touristy places in the world and “actually” enjoy it without being shoulder to shoulder with others.
February also has some of the most festivals of the year! Explore these 15 best places to visit in Europe in February and find your perfect fit.
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In This Post
15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in February
☀️ Warmest Place to Visit in Europe in February: Tenerife, Canary Islands
🐠 Best Places to Visit in Europe in February for Off-Season Travel with Fewer Tourists: Dubrovnik, Croatia / Santorini Greece
🎭 Best Special Event to Attend in February: Carnival – Venice, Italy / Lemon Festival – Menton, France
❤️ Most Romantic Place to Visit in Europe in February: Paris, France
⛄️ Best Places to Visit in Europe in February for Snow: Interlaken, Switzerland
🎫 Best Places to Visit in Europe in February for an Off-the-beaten-track holiday: Ljubljana, Slovenia / Krakow, Poland
🥾 Best Place for Outdoor Activities: Interlaken, Switzerland
Menton, France
⭐️ Menton is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to experience a top European festival – Lemon Festival ⭐️
Menton is a beautiful destination to explore in February. Located on the French Riviera, this charming town is known for its relaxing atmosphere, colorful buildings, and picturesque gardens. It is one of the most beautiful places in the South of France and easily one of my favourite places in the region!
Temperatures: The climate in Menton during February is mild, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F).
Festivals/Events: The Menton Lemon Festival, or Fête du Citron, is the highlight of February. This festival usually takes place in the last two weeks of the month and is a citrus-infused event that fills the town with color and zest. It’s a unique and vibrant celebration that adds a burst of sunshine to the winter season.
Top Tours & Experiences
Venice, Italy
⭐️ Venice is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to experience a top European festival – Carnival ⭐️
Venice, famous for its unique charm and romantic ambiance, is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February. Venice’s picturesque canals and historic architecture make it one of the prettiest cities in Italy everyone should visit.
Temperatures: Venice in February experiences cool temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 9°C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F). Evenings can be chilly, so bring some warm clothing!
Festivals/Events: The Venice Carnival is the highlight of February. It’s a magical time to visit when the city is transformed into a colorful and mysterious world. The carnival features parades, traditional music, and elegant masked balls. This is the coolest time to visit Venice by FAR!
Top Tours & Experiences
Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is Portugal’s southernmost region and is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February. Known for its stunning coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and warm climate, the Algarve brings warmer weather compared to the rest of Europe.
February is an excellent time to explore the Algarve’s charming towns, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Best places to visit in Algarve:
- Faro: Explore the historic Old Town and the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
- Lagos: Visit the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and the historic slave market.
- Albufeira: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
- Tavira: Discover the picturesque riverside town with its Roman bridge.
- Sagres: Explore the dramatic cliffs and the Fortaleza de Sagres.
Temperatures: In February, the Algarve has daytime temperatures ranging from 11°C to 17°C (52°F to 63°F).
Festivals/Events: No special events in February in The Algarve.
Top Tours & Experiences
Santorini, Greece
⭐️ Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to experience a very touristy destination in the off season with fewer people ⭐️
Santorini, one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, is one of the best destinations to explore in February. Famous for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and crystal-clear waters, Santorini offers a unique and romantic experience.
February allows you to discover the island’s beauty without the summer crowds. You can explore beautiful villages, relax on the beaches, and soak in the world’s most famous sunset without thousands of other people.
💡 TIP: Even though Santorini is a touristy travel destination and some people consider it “overrated”, I LOVE IT. It is truly such a unique place and is incredibly beautiful. I tell everyone it’s a place they should visit and decide for themselves their own opinion.
Temperatures: In February, Santorini has daytime highs averaging around 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F). While it’s not a beach season, the climate is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Festivals/Events: No specific events or festivals in Santorini in February.
Top Tours & Experiences
Paris, France
⭐️ Paris is the most romantic place to visit in Europe in February ⭐️
Paris is one of the most romantic places in Europe and is perfect to explore in February. While the weather is chilly, the city’s charm remains unmatched. Paris has a large number of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum, which can be enjoyed without the summer crowds.
Temperatures: Paris experiences cold winters, in February the daytime highs average around 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F). Be prepared for cooler evenings, and pack warm clothing.
Festivals/Events: The main event to enjoy in February in Paris is Paris Fashion Week.
Top Tours & Experiences
Tenefire, Spain
⭐️ Tenerfire is the warmest place to visit in February in Europe ⭐️
Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands and with its subtropical climate, it offers a warm escape from the cold weather in much of Europe. The island has diverse landscapes, including beautiful beaches, lush forests, and the stunning Teide National Park. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to enjoy some winter sun.
Temperatures: February in Tenerife offers highs typically range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), while evenings remain pleasantly cool.
Festivals/Events: No specific special events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Puglia, Italy
Puglia is one of my absolute favorite regions in Italy and even one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. It is a hidden gem with a beautiful coastline, countless charming villages with whitewashed buildings and so much to see and do! I love Puglia and highly recommend it every month of the year.
It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February for many reasons. While here you can explore the region’s historic towns, such as:
💙 Alberobello: Known for its unique trulli houses, this UNESCO-listed town is a picturesque and historic treasure in Puglia.
💙 Lecce: Lecce boasts stunning Baroque architecture and a lively cultural scene.
💙 Ostuni: The “White City” offers whitewashed buildings, a charming old town, and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
💙 Polignano a Mare: A coastal gem with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a stunning old town perched above the sea.
💙 Matera: Famous for its ancient cave dwellings, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a captivating historical destination.
💙 Gallipoli: A coastal town with beautiful beaches, a historic center, and delicious seafood cuisine.
💙 Monopoli: A relaxing town along the sea with a more authentic vibe.
Temperatures: Day time highs typically range from 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Dubrovnik, Croatia
⭐️ Dubrovnik is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to experience a very touristy destination in the off season with fewer people ⭐️
Dubrovnik is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February with its well-preserved medieval walls, stunning architecture, and picturesque old town. February allows you to explore the city without the summer crowds, which can get pretty crazy.
Temperatures: February highs typically range from 11°C to 14°C (52°F to 57°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is a stunning city in Austria famous for its baroque architecture and old-money charm. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to soak in the historic charm and cultural richness of the city without the crowds. February also has a more cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing in cafes around the city.
Temperatures: Highs typically range from -1°C to 7°C (30°F to 45°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific festivals.
Top Tours & Experiences
Valencia, Spain
Valencia, one of the best places to visit in Europe in February, is best known for its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively atmosphere. The city’s Mediterranean climate makes it a welcoming escape from a cold winter.
I visited Valencia in February and was so surprised at how warm and sunny it was during the visit. It is such a nice break from the cold, cloudy days that Northern Europe experiences most of February. Plus, it is not the most touristy place in Spain so I was able to explore and enjoy the city without feeling the weight of tourist groups everywhere.
Temperatures: Highs typically range from 14°C to 19°C (57°F to 66°F).
Festivals/Events: February marks the celebration of Las Fallas, Valencia’s most famous festival. While the main festivities are in March, you can witness the early preparations, including the construction of elaborate paper mâché sculptures throughout the city.
Top Tours & Experiences
Ljubljana, Slovenia
⭐️ Ljubljana is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February for an off-the-beaten-track holiday ⭐️
Ljubljana is a small city with a picturesque Old Town and rich history making it a perfect place for a winter getaway. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February for a more off-the-beaten-track getaway to someplace new and exciting.
While here be sure to venture to Lake Bled, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Temperatures: Typically range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific events/festivals.
Top Tours & Experiences
Valletta, Malta
Malta is a small island nation with a history, stunning architecture, and Mediterranean charm. The capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved forts, cathedrals, and museums. February allows for comfortable exploration without the scorching summer heat or crowds.
Temperatures: Malta experiences mild winter temperatures in February, with daytime highs ranging from 14°C to 17°C (57°F to 63°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific festivals/events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken is a picturesque town/region in Switzerland surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. This is one of the top places to visit in Europe in February offering a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. February brings ideal conditions for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
💡 I have spent endless months traveling in Switzerland and truly think it is one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you are looking for the “postcard-perfect” place in Switzerland then head to Interlaken!
Best places to visit in Interlaken:
⭐️ Jungfraujoch: Known as the “Top of Europe,” it offers breathtaking views and a unique ice palace.
⭐️ Grindelwald: A picturesque mountain village, offering stunning vistas, hiking trails, and year-round outdoor adventures.
⭐️ Lauterbrunnen: Known for its enchanting valley dotted with waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is a serene Swiss destination, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
⭐️ Schynige Platte: A botanical garden with alpine flora and panoramic vistas.
⭐️ Lake Thun and Lake Brienz: Enjoy serene boat rides with stunning mountain backdrops.
⭐️ Harder Kulm: A viewpoint offering sweeping views of Interlaken and the surrounding region.
Temperatures: Interlaken in February experiences cold winter temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from -1°C to 6°C (30°F to 43°F). Be prepared for chilly weather and snow-covered landscapes.
Festivals/Events: No specific events/festivals.
Top Tours & Experiences
Krakow, Poland
⭐️ Krakow is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February for an off-the-beaten-track holiday ⭐️
Krakow, a city steeped in history and culture, is a fantastic destination to explore in February. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, Krakow offers a journey back in time. February allows for a unique and quieter experience, as you can explore its historic sites and museums without the crowds of the summer months.
Temperatures: Daytime highs averaging around -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F).
Festivals/Events: Krakow’s most notable February event is the Jewish Culture Festival, which showcases Jewish music, art, and cuisine.
Top Tours & Experiences
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February. Known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and natural beauty, Mallorca offers the perfect escape from winter’s chill.
Temperatures: Mallorca in February experiences cool but moderate temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific events/festivals.
Top Tours & Experiences
Travel Insurance
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