top places to visit in February

Best places to visit in February

February may be the shortest month of the year, but it certainly offers a delightful holiday experience. There are many destinations across the world offering diverse vacations. You could be skiing down the slopes of the Alps in Europe, or relaxing on the exquisite beaches in the Caribbean. Enjoy the best of the winter and summer seasons in countries around the world – the opportunities for a memorable holiday are endless! Let Travelstart guide you on the best places to visit in February.

Popular High Season Destinations in February

England, United Kingdom

February offers a quieter and cosier way to experience England, with fewer crowds at many popular attractions. Beyond London, Liverpool and Manchester, travellers can explore York’s medieval streets, Bath’s Georgian architecture and Oxford’s historic university buildings

  • Explore York’s medieval streets with fewer crowds
  • Visit Bath’s historic Roman Baths and Georgian landmarks
  • Discover Oxford’s famous university buildings and museums
  • Pack a warm, waterproof jacket for days of around 8°C

Germany

February offers a quieter way to experience Germany’s historic cities, snowy landscapes and fairytale castles. Explore the grand architecture and cosy beer halls of Munich, discover Berlin’s museums, admire Dresden’s architecture or journey along Bavaria’s Romantic Road.

  • Explore Berlin’s museums and historic landmarks
  • Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in its winter setting
  • Wander through the medieval streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber
  • Pack warm layers for chilly days of around 4°C

The Netherlands

February offers a peaceful way to explore the Netherlands, with fewer crowds, cosy cafés and atmospheric canal cities. Wander through Amsterdam, admire Rotterdam’s modern architecture, discover Utrecht’s historic centre or visit the museums and seaside attractions of The Hague.

  • Cruise along Amsterdam’s picturesque canals
  • Explore Rotterdam’s striking architecture and food halls
  • Discover Utrecht’s medieval streets and unique wharf cafés
  • Pack warm, waterproof layers for cool days of around 7°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in February

Italy

Skip the crowds and long queues by visiting Italy in February. Set your own pace as you visit the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican or enjoy classical Italian food in Rome. Catch the delightful festivals and song contest that happen across the country.

  • Admire the architecture at Doge’s Palace
  • Snap some pictures of the Colosseum
  • Meet the natives at the Aquarium of Genoa
  • Prepare for a cool to cold 8°C
Aerial panoramic view of popular resort city Kas in Turkey

Türkiye

Türkiye combines ancient ruins, rich cultural traditions and unforgettable cuisine with dramatic seasonal scenery. In February, explore the palaces, bazaars and art galleries of Istanbul, admire snow-dusted Cappadocia or discover the classical ruins near İzmir.

  • Relax in a traditional Turkish hamam
  • Take a weather-permitting hot-air balloon flight over Cappadocia
  • Explore the underground city of Derinkuyu
  • Pack warm layers for February days of around 5°C to 10°C
Saone river in Lyon city at evening,  France

France

February offers a quieter way to discover France’s historic landmarks, Gothic architecture and celebrated cuisine. Explore the museums and elegant streets of Paris, sample traditional dishes in Lyon, enjoy the milder French Riviera or admire the snow-covered scenery of the Alps.

  • Explore the magnificent châteaux of the Loire Valley
  • Wander through the historic streets of Strasbourg
  • Discover Nice’s old town and Mediterranean coastline
  • Pack layers for regional temperatures of around 5°C to 13°C

Events in February

Italy – Venice Carnival

The Carnival of Venice has people travelling from far and near to take part in the city’s biggest party. Join in the celebration as you admire elaborately designed costumes, colourful decorations and exquisite artworks. The event happens every year in the two to three weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday (dates shift according to Easter). The majority of the activities during the Venice Carnival occur in St. Mark’s Square. During the last Sunday and last Tuesday of the celebrations, various plays and awards ceremonies for best costume take place on the stage in the square.

weather icon A cool 9-13°C with minimal showers

Two to three weeks in mid-February to early-March

location iconVenice

Czech Republic – Let It Roll Winter

Let It Roll is one of the best winter events in Prague. The drum and bass festival has continued over the years to showcase the biggest and most exciting names of the music festival in the Czech Republic. All the acts have the accompaniment of state-of-the-art sound, light and visuals. Some stars that have featured at the event over the years include High Contrast, Noisia, Pendulum and Andy C.

weather icon 5°C daytime temperatures with some rain

One to two days in mid or late-February

location iconPrague

Switzerland – Momentum Ski Festival

The Momentum Ski Festival is all about taking the atmosphere and excitement of the World Cup ski race and making it accessible to snow sports enthusiasts in central Europe! Whether you’re into skiing or snowboarding, you’ll be welcomed at this event. Besides getting to test your own speed and watching the pros in action at the races, you’ll get to socialise with other snow sports lovers, enjoy entertainment and delicious lunches, and attend informative business conferences.

weather icon -3°C daytime temperatures

Four days in late-January, February or March

location iconSwitzerland – venues tend to change each year

Perfect Beach Weather Destinations in February

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in October to get great discounts on your February trip! Not ready to travel in February? Book your trip in November and travel in May to get the best deals!

Popular High Season Destinations in February

Zimbabwe

Make your way to Zimbabwe to experience the lush natural beauty of its landscapes, friendly vibe of its people, and magic of its precious cultural gems. Even during the rainy season, Zimbabwe is a place where the sun always seems to be shining.

  • Try traditional Zimbabwean cuisine
  • Visit the Khami Ruins in Bulawayo
  • Experience the cosmopolitan bustle of Harare
  • All you need is a light jacket at 26°C

Namibia

February showcases Namibia’s greener side, with hot weather, dramatic skies and occasional summer thunderstorms. Explore the museums and markets of Windhoek, enjoy Swakopmund’s cooler Atlantic coastline or venture into the country’s remarkable deserts and wildlife reserves with fewer visitors.

  • Admire the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei
  • Spot elephants, lions and rhinos in Etosha National Park
  • Explore the abandoned buildings of Kolmanskop ghost town
  • Pack sunblock and rain protection for days of around 30°C
Victoria Falls waterfall in Africa, between Zambia and Zimbabwe, one of the seven wonders of the world

Zambia

February’s summer rains transform Zambia into a lush destination filled with dramatic scenery, colourful birdlife and newborn animals. Browse the markets of Lusaka, experience the rising waters of Victoria Falls or explore the attractions around Livingstone.

  • Browse Lusaka’s colourful craft markets
  • Admire Victoria Falls as its water levels rise
  • Look for migratory birds and young wildlife
  • Expect warm, humid days of around 27°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in February

Chobe National Park is the oldest national park in Botswana. Watering in the Okavango Delta. Herd of elephants adults and cubs crossing a river in shallow water

Botswana

February reveals Botswana’s lush green-season landscapes, with dramatic skies, newborn animals and exceptional birdlife. Safari areas are generally quieter, while the Central Kalahari becomes a prime destination for spotting grazing wildlife and the predators that follow them.

  • Take a guided safari through the Central Kalahari
  • Admire the green landscapes of the Kgalagadi region
  • Spot migratory birds and newborn wildlife in Chobe
  • Prepare for rain and warm days of around 30°C
Victoria Falls waterfall in Africa, between Zambia and Zimbabwe, one of the seven wonders of the world

Zambia

February’s summer rains transform Zambia into a lush destination filled with dramatic scenery, colourful birdlife and newborn animals. Browse the markets of Lusaka, experience the rising waters of Victoria Falls or explore the attractions around Livingstone.

  • Browse Lusaka’s colourful craft markets
  • Admire Victoria Falls as its water levels rise
  • Look for migratory birds and young wildlife
  • Expect warm, humid days of around 27°C

Kenya

February’s warm, mostly dry weather creates excellent conditions for wildlife viewing, sightseeing and coastal escapes. Discover Nairobi’s energetic city life, search for elephants and big cats on safari or head to the Indian Ocean for clear water, sandy beaches and excellent diving.

  • Explore the wildlife-rich Ol Kinyei Conservancy
  • Take a game drive through expansive Tsavo East
  • Swim and relax on beautiful Diani Beach
  • Enjoy hot coastal temperatures of around 31°C

Events in February

Zanzibar – Sauti za Busara

Sauti za Busara is an exciting music festival that overtakes Stone Town for four days during February’s second weekend every year. The event primarily takes place in the Old Fort, while fringe events happen around Stone Town. There is even a carnival street parade! Musicians performing at Sauti za Busara come from all over Africa. Time your visit to Zanzibar just right so that you can get immersed in this thrilling music festival in Stone Town.

weather icon 33°C daytime temperatures

Second weekend of February

location iconStone Town, Zanzibar

South Africa – Stellenbosch Wine Festival

Get to Stellenbosch in February, and experience the town’s claim to fame: wine production. In fact, the Stellenbosch Wine Festival provides one of the best ways to discover the Winelands outside of Cape Town. Sample hundreds of wines from the area, from big award-winning producers to smaller, niche boutique wineries. The Stellenbosch Wine Festival takes place for three days on the last weekend of February.

weather icon 27°C daytime temperatures

Last weekend of February

location iconStellenbosch

Nigeria – Lagos Theatre Festival

The Lagos Theatre Festival is a major creative event that highlights the theatre makers in Nigeria. Get ready to enjoy hundreds of performances across a dozen venues around Lagos. Back in 2013, the British Council launched the festival as a way to provide a platform for playwrights and theatre production crews in the country. Make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to experience the locals’ wonderful creativity.

weather icon 34°C daytime temperatures

From late-February to early-March

location iconLagos

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in October to get great discounts on your February trip! Not ready to travel in February? Book your trip in November and travel in May to get the best deals!

Popular High Season Destinations in February

Mehrangharh Fort and Jaswant Thada mausoleum in the Blue city Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India

India

February brings generally dry and comfortable weather to many parts of India, creating ideal conditions for sightseeing, cultural experiences and beach holidays. Explore the colourful markets of Delhi, discover Jaipur’s grand palaces or unwind beside the Arabian Sea in Goa.

  • Admire the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra
  • Browse Delhi’s bustling markets and historic streets
  • Relax on Goa’s palm-fringed beaches
  • Expect regional daytime temperatures of around 24°C to 31°C

Dubai

If you visit Dubai in February, you’ll have the pleasure of relaxing with the city’s more tranquil conditions. Head outdoors and admire the stunning architecture. Go on a shopping spree in Dubai Mall and discover the city’s sacred mosques.

  • Sit and enjoy the sights at the Dubai Fountain
  • Get the best views from Burj Khalifa
  • Cool off with a trip to Aquaventure Waterpark
  • Enjoy more time outdoors at a warm 25°C

Saudi Arabia

Discover Saudi Arabia’s desert landscapes, ancient heritage and rapidly evolving cities. In February, the mild weather is ideal for exploring the museums, markets and striking architecture of Riyadh, wandering through historic Diriyah or visiting AlUla’s remarkable rock formations.

  • Discover Riyadh’s historic Al Masmak Fortress
  • Explore the traditional shops of Souq Al Zal
  • Visit the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district in Diriyah
  • Enjoy more time outdoors at a warm 25°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in February

Phillippines

February is a great time to visit the Philippines, with warm weather, lower rainfall and ideal conditions for exploring cities, beaches and islands. Discover the energy of Manila, unwind on the beaches of Cebu or explore the tropical scenery around Palawan.

  • Explore the historic district of Intramuros in Manila
  • Relax on the beaches around Cebu
  • Discover lagoons and limestone cliffs in Palawan
  • Enjoy warm February temperatures of around 27°C to 30°C

Thailand

February brings warm temperatures, lower rainfall and plenty of sunshine to many parts of Thailand. Explore the temples and markets of Bangkok, experience the nightlife of Phuket or unwind on the beaches of Krabi and the Phi Phi Islands.

  • Visit Bangkok’s magnificent Temple of Dawn
  • Explore Phuket’s beaches, markets and nightlife
  • Take a boat trip through the Phi Phi Islands
  • Dress lightly for hot February days of around 33°C

China

China offers striking seasonal contrasts, from Beijing’s crisp winter scenery to the milder landscapes of the south. Explore ancient temples, imperial palaces and traditional neighbourhoods, then experience the futuristic skylines of its modern cities.

  • Walk along a snow-dusted section of the Great Wall
  • Sample regional dishes and warming local specialities
  • Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing
  • Pack warm layers for February days of around 5°C in Beijing

Events in February

Hong Kong – Chinese New Year

If you’re looking for a place to experience the Chinese New Year, there is no place better than Hong Kong. Take in stunning sights at the International Chinese New Year Night Parade along Tsim Sha Tsui district. Watch the incredible fireworks show over Victoria Harbour. Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year celebrations are said to be among the liveliest and most colourful that travellers have experienced. The Chinese New Year is alternatively known as the Lunar New Year.

weather icon 14-18°C daytime temperatures

Between mid-January and mid-February

location iconHong Kong

Australia – St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival

The St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival, commonly known as Laneway, began as an indie music event in Melbourne in 2005, before growing in popularity and expanding to four more Australian cities – Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Fremantle – as well as Auckland in. Today, the event is still going strong, featuring big line-ups, with artists such as Mac DeMarco, The Internet, POND, Shame and Slowdive. Laneway is all about focusing on the best new and established acts in the industry. Look forward to good music in iconic locations, with great food and drinks to match.

weather icon 24-31°C daytime temperatures

From late-January to early-February

location iconAustralia

United Arab Emirates – Dubai Food Festival

Prepare for a gastronomic celebration! The Dubai Food Festival showcases the diverse culinary offerings of the city. Expect a packed schedule of events and offers. Dine on special set menus at the finest eateries in Dubai to help you discover the city’s hidden treasures. Take the family along to the Beach Canteen, where you can enjoy the city’s finest home-grown food concepts. At the Taste of Dubai, indulge in the opportunity to sample tasty dishes from leading restaurants and meet celebrity chefs from around the world.

weather icon 24°C daytime temperatures

From late-February to early-March

location iconDubai

Perfect Beach Weather Destinations in February

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in October to get great discounts on your February trip! Not ready to travel in February? Book your trip in November and travel in May to get the best deals!

Popular High Season Destinations in February

Manhattan panorama at sunset aerial view, New York, United States

USA

The United States offers everything from snowy mountain escapes to warm coastal holidays. In February, experience the energy of New York City, enjoy the entertainment of Las Vegas, explore the attractions of Orlando or unwind beside the ocean in Honolulu.

  • Take a scenic drive to Key West in Florida
  • Enjoy a snowy mountain escape in Montana
  • Explore the museums and landmarks of Washington, D.C.
  • Expect February weather ranging from snowy to warm and sunny

Canada

Canada combines snow-covered wilderness with vibrant cities and welcoming indoor attractions. In February, admire the natural beauty around Grande Prairie and Thunder Bay, or explore the restaurants, museums and neighbourhoods of Toronto and Vancouver.

  • Wander through the historic streets of Québec City
  • Sample French-Canadian cuisine in Montréal
  • Admire the snow-covered landscapes of Banff National Park
  • Pack for February temperatures ranging from about -8°C to 8°C
République Dominicaine - Bayahibe

The Dominican Republic

February brings warm sunshine, lower humidity and relatively little rainfall to the Dominican Republic. Relax on tropical beaches, admire the colonial architecture of Santo Domingo or enjoy the restaurants and nightlife of this lively Caribbean destination.

  • Swim and snorkel among colourful marine life
  • Explore Santo Domingo’s historic Colonial Zone
  • Relax on the white-sand beaches of Punta Cana
  • Enjoy sunny February days averaging around 28°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in February

Mexico

February offers warm days, comfortable evenings and generally dry weather across many popular parts of Mexico. Explore ancient Maya ruins, relax beside the Caribbean Sea or discover the museums, restaurants and colourful neighbourhoods of its vibrant cities.

  • Visit the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá
  • Snorkel in the clear waters off Akumal Beach
  • Explore Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen
  • Enjoy coastal February temperatures of around 25°C to 29°C
Sunny tropical beach with beach huts on piles with thatched roof  for tourists and some coconut palm trees at the side.  Canoe in front view. Panama

Panama

Panama’s tropical climate attracts beach lovers, adventure seekers and history enthusiasts. February falls within the dry season, bringing sunny conditions for exploring secluded islands, discovering Panama City’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and enjoying outdoor adventures.

  • Paddle along the Chagres River by dugout canoe to an Emberá village
  • View the Panama Canal from the Miraflores Visitor Center
  • Wander through the historic streets of Casco Viejo
  • Enjoy warm February temperatures of around 27°C

Cuba

February’s warm, dry weather creates excellent conditions for exploring Cuba’s colourful cities and Caribbean beaches. Swim at Varadero, admire the natural beauty of Cayo Coco or discover the history and elegant architecture of Hotel Nacional de Cuba.

  • Visit a traditional tobacco farm in the Viñales Valley
  • Cruise through Havana in a classic car
  • Sample a refreshing mojito in its birthplace
  • Relax on the beach in February temperatures of around 27°C

Events in February

Canada – Winterlude

Head to Ottawa in Canada during February and discover the country’s capital transformed into a winter wonderland. The event celebrates the snow and cold with numerous activities. Watch colourful parades, admire beautiful ice sculptures and enjoy live music. Winterlude even breaks a few records as the world’s biggest natural ice rink as well as the world’s biggest snow playground. There are even quirky events like the bed race on ice! Canadians have been celebrating this event for more than three decades.

weather icon -4°C daytime temperatures

Early to mid-February

location iconOttawa

USA – Mardi Gras

This major celebration may possibly need no introduction! The Mardi Gras takes place across numerous cities across the United States, and in other parts of the world. Get ready for a thrilling party scene involving colourful costumes and catching bright beads being thrown from stunning floats. There’s even a parade for the dogs! In New Orleans, the biggest, most intricate and extravagant floats are courtesy of the top “krewes”, Orpheus, Bacchus and Endymion. Don’t miss out on this exciting street celebration in the USA.

weather icon 7-17°C daytime temperatures

Fat Tuesday, depending on Easter Sunday

location iconNew Orleans, St Louis and Alabama

El Salvador – Permanent International Festival of Art and Culture

Make sure you’re in Suchitoto in El Salvador in February to catch this presentation of various art genres. Artists from more than 30 countries have taken part in this festival. You can look forward to music, opera, theatre and film productions by well-known national and international artists. Another drawcard is the fact that Suchitoto is something of an artist colony in northern El Salvador. This creative event makes February a wonderful time to visit Suchitoto.

weather icon 33°C daytime temperatures

Every weekend in February

location iconSuchitoto

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in October to get great discounts on your February trip! Not ready to travel in February? Book your trip in November and travel in May to get the best deals!

Popular High Season Destinations in February

Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil

February is one of the best times to visit Brazil, especially Rio de Janeiro. Experience the party atmosphere, enjoy scenic tours, indulge yourself with the country’s stunning beaches and discover amazing historic ruins.

  • Experience the charming scene at Lagoa de Jijoca
  • Have fun with the family at Beto Carrero World
  • Take amazing pictures at Iguazu Falls
  • Temperatures range from 26-30°C across Brazil
National Park Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile

Chile

Few destinations offer as much variety as Chile. February is well suited to hiking through Patagonia, tasting local cuisine in Santiago and following the colourful streets of Valparaíso towards the Pacific coast. Farther north, the Atacama delivers clear skies and extraordinary desert scenery.

  • Stargaze beneath the clear skies of the Atacama Desert
  • Photograph Valparaíso’s colourful hills and street art
  • Meet the mysterious moai of Rapa Nui
  • Pack for conditions ranging from cool 15°C days to sunny 30°C weather

Peru

Peru’s Pacific coast is warm and sunny, making Lima and the northern beaches attractive choices. The Andes are greener but wetter, so travellers visiting Cusco should allow flexibility for showers while enjoying the region’s museums, markets and historic architecture.

  • Explore the interesting Histórico de
  • Discover the colonial heart of Cusco
  • Watch the fountains at Lima’s Circuito Mágico del Agua
  • Step back in time at the ancient city of Chan Chan
  • Plan for highs of roughly 19°C in Cusco and 27°C in Lima

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in February

Colombia

Colombia’s position near the equator brings warm weather throughout the year, while February is generally drier in Bogotá and along the Caribbean coast. Relax on Playa Blanca, explore the museums of Bogotá, discover Medellín’s green spaces and mountain views, or wander through the colourful old city of Cartagena.

  • Ride Medellín’s cable cars for sweeping city views
  • Trek through the jungle to ancient Ciudad Perdida
  • Taste hearty bandeja paisa and sancocho
  • Expect temperatures ranging from roughly 15°C to 30°C

Argentina

Warm, late-summer days open up Argentina’s spectacular outdoor spaces. Head south to trek through Los Glaciares National Park and admire Perito Moreno Glacier, or experience the cafés, architecture and lively neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires.

  • Feast on traditional asado with local accompaniments
  • Discover tango culture and street art in Buenos Aires
  • Experience gaucho traditions in the countryside around Salta
  • Pack for regional highs ranging from around 18°C to 29°C
Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil

Yes. February brings hot summer weather that is ideal for enjoying Brazil’s coastline, although refreshing tropical showers are common in many regions. Balance beach days in Fortaleza with rainforest adventures, energetic cities and Brazil’s irresistible food and music.

  • Unwind on Fortaleza’s warm, sandy beaches
  • Paddle through the remarkable Amazon rainforest
  • Explore the viewpoints and neighbourhoods of Rio de Janeiro
  • Dress for humid February temperatures of around 30°C

Events in February

Brazil – International Coffee Week

This intense celebration is one of the biggest in the world. In Rio de Janeiro, close to 600 street parties take place! The city hosts more than a million people during the carnival. Then there’s the parade, which features stunningly-designed floats and stylishly-costumed samba dancers from various samba schools performing. And that’s just one city! The carnival takes place throughout Brazil. Prepare for this exciting party and you’ll definitely look to experience this Brazilian celebration again in the future.

weather icon 29°C daytime temperatures

5 days, starting Friday afternoon before Ash Wednesday

location iconBrazil

Argentina – Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia

The Mendoza grape harvest is the biggest wine celebration in Latin America. The festival at the end of the harvest brings thousands of visitors annually. It’s no surprise, since Mendoza is one of the eight wine capitals of the world. At the festival, join in the celebrations, which involve dancing, singing and wine tastings. Towards the latter part of the event, every wine region takes part in the Mendoza parade, where you can enjoy sights of floats and a Beauty Queen. There’s even an amazing light and sound show, presented by thousands of artists representing the passion of the vineyards.

weather icon 30°C daytime temperatures

Late-February to mid-March

location iconMendoza

Chile – Valdivian Week

In February, Chileans celebrate the foundation of their most beautiful city, Valdivia, with a week-long festival. The centre of this party is the entertaining music and spectacular fireworks at the waterfront promenade at Plaza de la República. During the fireworks show, take in a beautiful sight as many stylishly decorated boats sail down the Calle-Calle River. Throughout the event, enjoy a variety of concerts and explore the diverse stalls where you can purchase various souvenirs.

weather icon 24°C daytime temperatures

9-15 February

location iconValdivia

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in October to get great discounts on your February trip! Not ready to travel in February? Book your trip in November and travel in May to get the best deals!

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