Let’s face it, February is the least fabulous of all the months. It’s shorter than all the others and following on from the festive joy of December and motivational newness of January, it can often be the month where things start to feel a bit drab. One way to turn your February into FABuary is to plan a holiday of epic proportions, and if you’re short on ideas we’ve got you covered!
We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best places to travel in February, to help you start booking…
Why travel in February?
Two reasons: to beat the aforementioned winter blues, but also because you’ll be met with fewer crowds and a different travelling experience! February is the low season for many areas of the world, so fewer tourists flock to those bucket list destinations giving you lots of time and space for yourself and your holiday! Bliss.
Where is the best tropical vacation in February?
There are plenty of tropical vacation destinations for February that you can add to your bucket list. If you’re looking for hot sunny weather or relaxing beach days, then Southeast Asia or Central America will be your best bet! Climates remain quite warm all times of year thanks to the equator, so you can go swimming, enjoy many cocktails in the sand, and bask in the glorious golden rays all winter long.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Ask any traveller to roll out their bucket list of best places to travel in February and Barcelona is sure to be right up the top. Brimming with must-see sights and cultural delights, there’s no shortage of activities and attractions in this vibrant city.
While February isn’t the peak season for travellers in Spain, it is a beautiful time to visit. Take advantage of having Barcelona’s many museums, attractions and restaurants at your disposal while the larger crowds are away.
What is the weather like in February?
Averaging temperatures between 5°C and 16°C, the weather in Barcelona in February is cool. Though the temperature is chilly, it’s not as cold as some other major cities of the Northern Hemisphere like New York or Berlin.
What can I do in Barcelona in February?
Barcelona is brimming with activity in February! The Llum Festival lights up the Poblenou neighbourhood which turns the streets into an ‘open air experimentation laboratory’ with light displays from artists, designers and architects from around the world. Santa Eulàlia’s day is on the 12th of February, and it’s a popular celebration for the locals, as the second patron saint is celebrated in Barcelona. The Santa Eulàlia festival is filled with concerts, processions, and authentic Catalan street parties.
The essential Barcelona sights are also a must. The Gothic Quarter with cobbled backstreets and Catalan Gothic architecture should be at the top of your list. Following closely is a visit to Sagrada Familia and Casta Batllo, along with a stroll down the city’s most famous street, Las Ramblas.

Image source:Contiki
2. Greece
Though summer is obviously the most popular time to visit this sunny land, Greece in February is still brimming with charm. You’ll be able to island hop in peace and photograph the ancient temples and ruins without thousands of tourists in frame. Not to mention all the tzatziki for you!
What is the weather like in February?
Much like the rest of Europe, Greece experiences cooler temperatures in February as winter comes to a close. The average temperature around this time of year sits between 6°C to 17°C thanks to that Mediterranean climate which makes the weather mild and not too icy!
What can I do in Greece in February?
February is the perfect time for you to travel to Athens, paying a visit to the historic city’s hot spots while the crowds are away. See all the cultural capital has to offer while the sun is shining during the day, kicking off with a visit to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, Parthenon, Kerameikos, Temple of Olympian Zeus or Ancient Agora. On rainy days or in the evenings, you should check out the National Archaeological Museum, Benaik Museum of Greek Culture, Byzantine & Christian Museum or the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.
Likewise, the major Greek Islands remain readily accessible during the cooler months and are relatively untouched by tourists during this time. From hiking the many trails in Corfu, to enjoying a local drop at Santorini wineries, there’s plenty to see and do in the Greek Islands in February. However, it’s important to note that outside of the high season some shops, hotels and restaurants might be closed and transport such as ferries and planes can be limited. Plan accordingly!
3. Rome, Italy
February is considered the ‘low season’ in Rome, making it perfect for Italian-bound travelers with a penchant for short queues and unimpeded views. Because it’s the low season, Rome in February is relatively quiet – there will still be other tourists at the major hot spots, but overall you’ll be able to take in the sights without having to squeeze your way through the crowd. Take your holiday slow, just how the Italian life is intended to be led.
What is the weather like in February?
Like many of its Mediterranean counterparts, the weather in Rome will be cool but pleasant. The average temperatures sit between 3°C and 16°C. Expect a few rainy days!
What can I do in Rome in February?
There are plenty of things to do in Rome in February, including visiting the popular attractions, which are less crowded than during the peak months. Make sure to visit the Colosseum and the Vatican, before taking in other sights like St Peter’s Basilica, the Palatino, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano.
Culture vultures will have their fill, with plenty of incredible museums to visit including The Museo e Galleria Borghese, Capitoline Museums and Museo Nazionale Romano. Finish off your days with delicious dinners in iconic spots such as Osteria Chiana, Agustarello a Testaccio or La Rinascente Food Hall. For the best pizza try Gino e Toto Sorbillo Pizzeria or L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. If you’re in the mood for some gelato try Gelateria della Palma or Don Nino.

Image source:Contiki
4. Paris, France
There are many reasons to visit Paris: the world-famous attractions, the cobbled city streets, the PASTRIES! All these reasons still apply to exploring the French capital in February. Plus, it’s a lot cheaper and quieter in the low season. Plus, what better city in the world to visit for Valentine’s Day? There’s nothing more romantic than seeing the City of Love dusted with a blanket of white snow.
What is the weather like in February?
If you’re travelling in February, be sure to pack lots of warm outer layers like sweaters, wool socks, scarves and a warm coat because the weather usually lingers between 3°C and 9°C degrees. But, if you find yourself cold in the most fashionable city in the world you can always keep warm the French way; go shopping!
What can I do in Paris in February?
Visit the city on the 14th of February with your partner for a romantic trip to remember. For those travelers looking for cultural experiences, enjoy quiet moments at the most popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, Sainte Chapelle and the Catacombs. Keep warm – and entertained – indoors at the famed museums such as The Louvre & Les Halles, Rodin, and Musée d’Orsay. Cap off your exploration with a cosy night in one of the city’s famed bars, like Cravan, Bar Hemingway, Les Trois 8 or Bisou. Find out more about the most underrated restaurants in Paris here.
5. Mexico
With its sandy beaches and mouth-watering local dishes calling your name, February is the perfect time to say ‘buenos días’ to Mexico. The climate in February is warm and dry, making it the perfect month to see the sights of Mexico City, or chill by the sea in Playa Del Carmen or Tulum.
What is the weather like in February?
One of the warmer options on this list of best places to travel to in February, average temperatures can range from lows of 15°C to highs of 30°C. Woof! Make sure to pack some short sleeves and linens.
What can I do in Mexico in February?
One word for you: Carnaval. In February, Mexico’s cities come alive with vibrant parades, music, dancing, fireworks and fun as they host the annual celebration preceding Lent. Some of the biggest Carnaval festivities can be found in Mazatlán, Cozumel and Veracruz. February in Mexico is also known as whale-watching season, with majestic grey whales coming into the lagoons and bays of the Baja Peninsula to calve their cute little baby whales.
You can also take advantage of the warmer weather to spend time in stunning historic attractions like the jungle ruins of Palenque, the ancient canals of Xochimilco in Mexico City, or the Mayan ruins Chichén Itzá. Adventure junkies can seek out thrills by diving or surfing in the vast array of beach towns and cities. Learn to surf in Ensenada, explore the cenotes in the Riviera Maya, go white water rafting in the rapids of the Río Antigua or take a hike Nevado de Toluca. The list is endless.

Image source:Contiki
6. New York City, USA
New York, it’s no wonder Alicia Keys – and everyone else – keeps singing about you. It’s the city of dreams and, in February, very chilly weather. Though it may be brisk, there’s no denying the allure of New York City in the winter months. Ice skating, snow, and plenty of hot cups of Joe – you’ll have a blast.
What is the weather like in February?
Temps vary from -3 to 10°C on average, with showers and some snowfall to be expected so make sure you pack plenty of warm and cosy layers.
What can I do in New York in February?
Take in the Super Bowl at a classic NYC hot spot like Empellón Al Pastor or Warren 77 for the ultimate American experience, or watch the New York Knicks play a basketball game at the iconic Madison Square Garden.
Layer up and take a stroll through Central Park, before heading indoors to the warmth of the city’s many attractions like the American Museum of Natural History, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Empire State Building or the iconic Statue of Liberty. Keep the momentum going with another day out and about in Brooklyn, taking in the attractions, street art and munching on delicious eats like bagels and New York Pizza.
7. Canada
Oh, Canada. Land of delicious poutine and snow-capped mountains. It’s perfect for a holiday around this time of year… You know those charming Insta photos of powdery white mountains and people walking through snowy towns in extravagant parkas? That’s Canada in February. And, this is peak skiing season, so grab your goggle and poles and hit those slopes!
What is the weather like in February?
On the east coast in Toronto, average temperatures in February sit around -5°C to 3°C with some snow and rain expected. Quebec and Montreal average between -18°C to 0°C. On the west coast in Vancouver, average temperatures of 2°C to 10°C can be expected, while close-by ski villages like Banff and Whistler Blackcomb in the Canadian Rockies range from -11°C to 2°C.
What can I do in Canada in February?
Skiing. Snow boarding. Après skiing. Are you sensing a theme? Along with classic wintry adventures, travelers will keep themselves busy with historical and cultural attractions in the major cities, which makes this country one of the best places to visit in February.
On the west coast, check out Vancouver for a vibrant city atmosphere and easy access to some of the parks in Alberta and British Columbia. Head to the east coast for some classic French Canadian charm in Québec and Montreal. Walk the romantic streets and enjoy the local traditions, like the festivities of Carnaval or treating yourself to local delicacies like poutine.
You can also pay a visit to the northwest city of Yellowknife, which is known as the best spot to see Aurora Borealis – the northern lights – in Canada.

Image source:Contiki
8. California, USA
As the winter weather begins to fade away on the American west coast, California is the perfect spot for an active adventure or relaxing holiday. California doesn’t see many of those classic winter-symptoms, so you can bask under the golden sun and hike and shop and mingle with the stars until you drop.
What is the weather like in February?
The weather varies depending on which part of the state you’re in, with cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco averaging around 8°C to 20°C. Meanwhile, the smaller villages and parks such as Yosemite Valley and Sequoia National Park are cooler and can average between lows of -5°C and highs of 15°C.
What can I do in California in February?
No trip to California is complete without a visit to Los Angeles, where you can see the Hollywood sights. In February, your celeb-sighting will be on point as the Awards Season continues. Or you can take a day trip to Anaheim and stroll down Main Street at Disneyland.
Take a hike, go camping or just bask in the stunning scenery of the state’s incredible parks like Big Sur, Yosemite, Redwood National and State Parks, Sequoia National Park and Death Valley National Park. Enjoy Lunar New Year celebrations in San Francisco, before seeing the iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Museum of Modern Art and Alcatraz. Then, head north and sample some of the region’s best wines in Napa Valley.
If you’re still feeling the festive vibe, why not visit some of The Holiday filming locations in LA?
9. New Zealand
In New Zealand the hills – and city streets – are alive with summer fun in the month of February. Warm weather and sunshine set the scene for adventure-filled days in the north and south islands of this wondrous country.
What is the weather like in February?
February is the end of summer in New Zealand, with average temperatures of about 15°C to 30°C across the country, so prepare to get some sun! Though, while the weather is warm, rainfall and the occasional cool day are to be expected as you move across this diverse landscape.
What can I do in New Zealand in February?
As the sunshine continues to radiate through this final summer month, spend your days experiencing life-changing adventures. On the South Island, try bungee-jumping, white water rafting or basically anything in the nation’s adventure capital Queenstown. Head for a hike in the stunning Marlborough Sounds, before hitting up the region’s award-winning wineries. Take a stroll or enjoy a picnic by the pristine blue waters of Lake Tekapo or Hokitika Gorge.
On the North Island, hit up Hobbiton to see the set of the iconic Lord of the Rings franchise. See the sparkling glow-worm caves of Waitomo, or test out the extreme cliff-face swing in Taupo. The wonders of New Zealand are all yours if you travel in February!

Image source:Contiki
10. South Africa
There’s never a bad time to visit South Africa, but February is up there as one of the best months to travel to this dreamy and diverse landscape. As the high point of the peak season from December to January begins to die down, February provides the same sunny weather, with smaller crowds.
What is the weather like in February?
The weather is warm and sunshine is overflowing, though cooler temperatures are to be expected in the evenings, with average temperatures of 16°C to 28°C.
What can I do in South Africa in February?
Cape Town is a must for first time visitors, who can take in the sights without the large lines and masses of tourists. Check out Table Mountain, Queens or Glen Beach, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and Robben Island. Venture out on a tour of the Winelands region, including Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl.
Sure to be at the top of everyone’s South Africa bucket list is a tour of Kruger National Park, where travellers will see the park brimming with lush greenery in February. Game viewing in February can be challenging as the animals keep away from main water sources and hide beneath thick vegetation, though from the safety of a 4WD you may be able to spot some of the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants and buffalos.
11. Croatia
Croatia has to be one of the most popular destinations right now, with tourists flocking to Dubrovnik and Plitvice Lakes National Park in the peak season of summer. But have you considered holidaying during the winter months? Sure, the wintry weather is cooler, but the country is as beautiful as ever and there’s so much to do.
As the temperature drops in the low season, be aware that ferry schedules and accommodation in coastal towns can be reduced or halted altogether.
What is the weather like in February?
Croatia’s Mediterranean climate means temperatures in cities like Dubrovnik, Zagreb and Split can average between 3°C to 16°C.
What can I do in Croatia in February?
Take your time strolling the somewhat quieter cobblestone streets of Zagreb, visiting the cities many attractions without the hefty queues. Then, enjoy snowy hikes or days spent skiing in nearby Medvednica Mountain. A trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park is still ideal for avid photographers, as the lakes, waterfalls and alpine forests transform into a fantastical winter wonderland.
Carnival kicks off in February ahead of Lent, with Rijeka, Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik and Samobor known for their euphoric celebrations. Another vibrant city-wide party takes place in Dubrovnik when the Feast of St Blaise is held in celebration of the city’s patron saint.

Image source:Contiki
12. Thailand
February is smack-bang in the middle of the high season for Thailand, meaning major crowds flock for sunshine-filled winter getaways. Though it’s considerably quieter than December and January, you should still expect a bustling atmosphere.
Eat your fill of pad thai, party on the beach and in bars, and spend the cold months under the sun for a significant mood boost – and maybe even get a tan you can bring home with you!
What is the weather like in February?
Temperatures around the country can vary, though thanks to the previous monsoon months the weather is overall quite cool and dry, with lots of sunny days to be enjoyed. In Bangkok temperatures of 22°C to 33°C should be expected, while the likes of Chiang Mai is cooler with averages of 13°C to 26°C.
What can I do in Thailand in February?
The stunning flower festival in Chiang Mai is a highlight for travellers, with flower-decorated floats parading through town. Take advantage of the lack of humidity and visit some of the country’s jaw dropping parks, like Khao Sok National Park or Erawan National Park. All of this makes Thailand one of the best places to travel in February. There also plenty of elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai and Phuket to visit for a beautiful and ethical wildlife experience.
February is also the perfect month to visit the Andaman Coast of Thailand, with the sunny conditions allowing for glorious relaxing days on the sandy shores in the likes of Phuket or the Trang Islands.
13. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the ideal tropical getaway and 100% one of the best places to travel to in February. You get rainforests and volcano hikes, colourful animals and birds, delicious food, and beautiful weather that’s sure to soothe the chill in your bones. Perfect for active travellers or those who just want to relax, you really can’t go wrong.
What is the weather like in February?
February is one of the best times to visit Costa Rica as the temperature lingers around 25°C and 29°C, and there is minimal rainfall during this time of year. Expect lots of sunshine and dry weather – so pack accordingly!
What can I do in Costa Rica in February?
With plenty of National Parks to hike through you won’t be bored at all. Want volcanoes? Visit Poás National Park. Stunning wildlife? Cahuita National Park! Adorable baby turtles? Tortuguero National Park. There’s something here for everyone. Let’s not forget the beaches that you can lounge at in your favourite bikini while sipping fruity cocktails,
For the adventurous travellers out there there’s plenty of ziplining, diving, and snorkeling to be done as well.

Image source:Contiki
14. Peru
Whether you’re sticking to Peru’s warmer coasts or braving the altitude of the Andes, Peru is one of the best places to travel to in February. Enjoy the culture of Lima, make friends with plenty of llamas, and party at plenty of local festivals.
What is the weather like in February?
Temperatures stay around 20°C to 26°C in February and you’ll be given some of the warmest temperatures of summer. It is a little humid around this time of year, though, so be prepared. Up in the mountains the weather will be a little cooler and a lot more variable, so if you’re planning on hiking make sure to pack an extra layer and a waterproof jacket.
What can I do in Peru in February?
Hike! Between Laguna 69 and Machu Picchu, Peru is no stranger to jaw-dropping views, and these are the perfect months to view them. Though, if you’d rather build up a tan instead of a sweat, there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to visit along the coast.
If you’re interested in local culture, February is a month with plenty of festivals across Peru. Lunahuana Adventure Sports Festival for those brave of heart – it features climbing, rafting, and mountain biking competitions! Or, if you want to celebrate along the shores of Lake Titicaca, La Fiesta Candelaria takes place there for two whole weeks.
Cusco and Lima are two stunning cities with so much to offer from art and history, to incredibly kind and friendly locals. And don’t forget to make the most of the mouth-watering Peruvian street food!
15. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka – a lush and gorgeous hidden gem in Asia. If you want sunshine and good food and immaculate vibes this February, this is where you need to go.
What is the weather like in February?
The weather during this time of year is totally blissful sitting between 23°C and 29°C. Though be mindful that rainfall still happens, so bring a good coat!
What can I do in Sri Lanka in February?
What can’t you do is the question. There are plenty of National Parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit, and the dry season makes February the best time to do so. You can book a few safari tours for your chance to spot some elegant looking young leopards in their natural habitat, or you can visit the impressive Sigiriya rock fortress for a hint of awe and history.
There are plenty of beaches to enjoy, and you can learn all about Buddhist culture and practices at the many temples dotted around the country. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Golden Temple of Dambulla are Buddhist areas of note in Sri Lanka.
Visit Yala National Park, take a beautiful train ride to Kandy, go snorkelling, and head for some whale-watching as well! The world is truly your oyster this February.