The best places to visit in February range from romantic Valentine’s getaways and sun destinations to places covered in snow.
Beyond the romance of Valentine’s Day, February is ripe with opportunities to get away. You’ll find sunshine and festivals if you head south of the equator. And if you venture north you can enjoy the magic of the Aurora Borealis and winter wonderlands.
With that said, if you’re looking to avoid crowds, either at the beach or on the ski slopes, you should be aware of the February half-term (Monday 19 February to Friday 23 February) unless you’re taking your own family away. Flights during these weeks, as well as the cost of accommodation, can increase significantly so make sure you book well in advance.
The best long-haul places to visit in February
For anyone travelling from the UK, you have three continents and more than 40 countries to explore. There’s no need to travel far but with the below long-haul recommendations you could well be tempted.
1. Beijing, China
- Learn more: Beijing travel guide
- Why visit in February? Chinese New Year festivities from Feb. 10th to 17th
China’s New Year celebrations (also known as the Spring Festival or Chunjie) witness one of the largest human migrations in the world. More than half a billion people, travel from all across the country to their ancestral homes to ring in Chinese New Year with their loved ones.
Visiting Beijing at this time of year is a spectacle and one that I recommend you consider for your February travel plans. Be sure to kit yourself out in red as the locals do, then visit one of the famous Temple Fairs, such as the one at the Temple of Heaven, before the massive fireworks displays in Beijing.
Visiting the Forbidden City is a must on any trip to Beijing however, you will have to keep in mind the city will be extremely busy with visitors celebrating the New Year. Try exploring the many night markets of Beijing for incredible local dishes such as the Guijie (Ghost Street), Qianmen and Longfusi food streets.
2. Goa, India
- Learn more: Candolim travel guide
- Why visit in February? Pleasant temperatures and a myriad of cultural attractions
Goa makes my list of places to visit in February because of its warm weather and intriguing mix of European and Indian cultures.
Whilst many people associate India as a former British colony, Goa and its port actually spent a long time as a Portuguese territory, giving it a different flavour to the rest of India. Goa is a popular beach holiday destination with more than 103 km worth of stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches to explore during your stay.
Palolem and Candolim beaches stand out in North Goa, while Colva and Benaulim beaches are all the rage in South Goa. If you’ve had enough of frolicking on the beaches or yoga and meditation classes, visit Bom Jesus Basilica (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, which are among the city’s most recognised landmarks.
Goan cuisine is also highly rated for a reason, it’s delicious. Make sure you try as much as possible during your visit, including many incredible fish dishes inspired by Portuguese cuisine.
3. San Jose, Costa Rica
- Learn more: San Jose travel guide
- Why visit in February? To glimpse volcanic activity in Arenal Volcano National Park
One of the premier eco-tourism destinations on the planet, Costa Rica also shares coastlines with the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. This Central American gem is home to rainforests, volcanoes and beaches, with several biodiversity reserves making it a veritable paradise.
Travel to San Jose to begin your adventure into one of the most diverse countries in the world. The city is filled with culture, art and delicious food. While you’re there explore the barrios of Amon and Escalante before you venture out of the city for some outdoor adventures.
Walk among the clouds and the canopy at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or check out the Observation Lodge at Arenal Volcano National Park, both of which are just a couple of hour’s drive or bus trip away from San Jose. If you arrive in February you may even have a chance to see the Arenal Volcano erupt, as February to April is when it is most prone to volcanic activity.
4. New Orleans, USA
- Learn more: New Orleans travel guide
- Why visit in February? Experience the vibrant Mardi Gras Festival
Anyone travelling to a place called ‘The Big Easy’ knows they’re in for a treat. For those visiting New Orleans, expect to find it a warm and welcoming place, with the heat slowly rising until the end of February when the annual Mardi Gras Festival comes roaring into town. For a few days, the jewel of the south becomes a heady mix of live music, street parades and beaded revelry that rumbles on into the wee hours.
The food is great too, for some southern gems don’t miss fiery jambalaya, a shrimp po’boy and a bowl of succulent gumbo. Two of my favourite spots to try these are High Hat Cafe and Arnaud’s.
A visit to the French Quarter is a must too as there is no better image of New Orleans than this centuries-old neighbourhood that brought the Enlightenment to America. New Orleans during Mardi Gras, is definitely, one of the best places to go on holiday in February.
5. Quebec, Canada
- Learn more: Quebec travel guide
- Why visit in February? Enjoy the Quebec Winter Carnival until Feb 11th
For nearly 70 years, Quebec has played host to the world’s biggest and oldest winter carnival. The famous masquerade ball at Chateau Frontenac is one of the highlights, but there is also live music entertainment, interactive adventures for kids and outdoor sporting events. Please remember, with this being winter in Canada, you’ll need to wrap up warm and pack the right footwear for going outdoors.
For those wanting to really get out and about in the Canadian winter wonderland, head Northeast from Quebec City to Mont-Sainte-Anne for winter hikes and fantastic skiing and snowboarding. Mone-Sainte-Anne is the perfect ski resort for people of all abilities, even offering night skiing on 19 different trails. The resort is only 40 km outside of Quebec City, which makes it a great destination for a few days on the slopes.
Best places to visit in February in Europe
Would you rather stay a little closer to home? While temperatures are still pretty chilly across the majority of Europe, there are several spots blessed with milder temperatures too. Venture to the Mediterranean for a little sunshine and seasonal celebrations or enjoy a frosty winter wonderland in Scandinavia.
6. Tromso, Norway
- Learn more: Tromso travel guide
- Why visit in February? Snow sports and the spectacular Northern Lights
If you’re looking for a real winter adventure this February, then a trip to Tromso might cure your thirst for a wintery adventure. Whilst Norway is not the cheapest country in the world to visit, its wealth of incredible natural attractions does set it apart, especially during winter.
Tromso is a great place to see the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis, a true bucket list moment staring up at the incredible light show in the sky during the depth of the frozen Arctic winter. If you want to do more than admire the Aurora, try your hand at hiking and sledging or, kayaking the fjords past frozen stretches of water. Save some time to visit the Arctic Cathedral, with its shimmering glass mosaics, huge crystal chandeliers and magnificent pipe organ.
The best thing about visiting Tromso in February is that whilst it is icy, the days begin to noticeably lengthen and give you more opportunities to explore, whilst still being able to catch the stunning light show from the Aurora in the evenings.
7. Ibiza, Spain
- Learn more: Ibiza travel guide
- Why visit in February? Warm hiking trails (and nightlife)
Ibiza is far more than just parties. The island is incredibly beautiful, with dozens of picturesque towns to explore like Santa Agnes de Corona, Sant Mateu d’Albarca and Es Cubells. Ibiza, away from the partying, is filled with stunning scenery, beautiful weather, incredible food and a wonderfully relaxed way of living. But what’s it like in winter?
The beaches are still perfect for viewing sunsets and the occasional swim if the weather is a bit warmer, plus there are plenty of hiking trails all over the island. If you want to feel the party vibe, you can still feel the pulse of Ibiza during February, as many of the cafes and restaurants remain open.
Lola’s Club and LA MOVIDA continue to entice clubbers for the long winter nights. If you’re looking to travel somewhere close to home, Ibiza could be the destination for you this winter.
8. Valletta, Malta
- Learn more: Valletta travel guide
- Why visit in February? Join in with Carnival celebrations early in the month
Malta may be known as a summer destination but its capital, Valletta, is one of the best European cities to visit in February. Temperatures sit in the mid to high teens for those tired of the gloomy UK winter weather. Plus, this month sits during the country’s off-season, making it a brilliant time to explore Valletta’s medieval streets without the crowds.
After something a little more lively? Venture to Malta the week before Ash Wednesday (aka Pancake Day) and the entire island comes alive with vibrant carnival celebrations. Valletta hosts most of the festivities, including a huge parade featuring colourful floats and intricate costumes. It’s a feast for the eyes and something well worth incorporating into your February travel agenda.
9. Kos, Greece
- Learn more: Kos travel guide
- Why visit in February? Sun-soaked beaches and historic relics without the summer crowds
Why visit the island of Kos in February? Kos is just off the west coast of Turkey and is a popular destination during the summer. So much so, that this beautiful little island is often overcrowded, which is why visiting in February is the perfect time to beat the crowds and enjoy the island.
Kos is filled with history and you’ll find many impressive historical sites here, from fortresses belonging to the Knight’s Hospitaller to the remnants of the ancient Agora. As you might expect for an island in the Mediterranean, Kos has many stunning beaches too such as Kefalos, Marmari and Tigaki. Hiking up Mount Diekos or to the Antimachia lookout is the best way to get some stunning views of both Kos and its surrounding islands.
After a day spent exploring, relax and dine out for the evening at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town of Kos and enjoy incredible views of the Aegean Sea as the sunsets. Kos is one of Greece’s best islands to visit throughout the year, which is why it’s one of the best countries to visit in February for your winter break.
Find more holiday inspiration
Whether you’re looking to escape to somewhere hot in February or looking to head to the Alps for some skiing with the family in Europe during half term, KAYAK has the information you need.
Not sure if you have the time to get away during February? Why not look ahead to the best places to visit in March. Start planning now for your next spring break and get the best possible options on flights and accommodation before prices begin to rise.
For other inspiration, KAYAK Explore and travel guides bring the world to you. And for great value bookings, KAYAK is where you’ll find flights, car rental, and accommodation.
