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So, you’ve got January out of the way, and you’re itching for a vacation. February is cold, but it’s a beautiful time of year when you might catch the first glimpse of Spring. Plus, February is the month of carnival and other charming celebrations. Europe is a diverse continent with plenty of destinations for all kinds of breaks.
If you’re seeking a snowy escape, head to northern Europe, where you’ll find popular ski resorts. Perhaps you’re desperate for some winter sun. If so, there are plenty of Mediterranean spots with sea and sand aplenty. Or maybe you’re looking for a romantic city getaway? In Europe, you’re spoilt for choice.
From the awe-inspiring architecture of Austria to the romantic city of Rome, I’ve chosen my favorite places to visit in Europe this February. There are some obvious options, like Venice in Italy, and some lesser-known destinations, like Menton in France. And with plenty of fun-filled events going on, February is a great time to explore. So, let’s take a close look.
Berlin, Germany
Germany is known for its cold winters, and the capital city of Berlin is no different. Having lived in Germany for over a year, I know Germans love spending evenings and weekends socializing outside under warm lamps. There are few tourists in February because of the colder weather, but for me, the cold weather makes Germany even more charming.
In the last two weeks of February, the annual Berlin Film Festival, the Berlinale, takes place. So, if you’re a film buff, this is a no-brainer. Spot stars on the red carpet, watch an acclaimed film or wander through the European Film Market. This is a ticketed event and can sell out quickly.
If films aren’t your thing, take advantage of the quieter season and visit attractions such as the Reichstag Building, Charlottenburg Palace, or the Berlin TV Tower. You must register to visit the Reichstag Building even though it is free, but if you can visit, please do. This beautiful building offering panoramic views over the city was the highlight of my trip!
Bern, Switzerland
Bern is the capital of Switzerland, one of the most picturesque cities on the continent. Sure, Switzerland is cold in February, but the days are drawing out, allowing you more time to explore. The old town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a largely medieval city with a charming atmosphere. Bern is a small city by European standards, and you could easily explore it in a few days.
The old town is elevated and sits beside the sparkling blue Aare River. Together, the tall sandstone buildings and the ground-floor arcades make the longest-covered shopping promenade in the world. Enjoy the many attractions, and climb up the 254 steps to the top of the Bern Cathedral for amazing views.
During your explorations of the city, be sure to look for the 11 famous Renaissance fountains sprinkled throughout the city. If you’re in Bern on the Thursday after Ash Wednesday, you’re in for a treat. This is when the Bern Carnival kicks off by waking the town’s bear from hibernation, and performers and processions fill the streets.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is Belgium’s capital city, famous for its rich history and archaeological landmarks. The Grand Palace is just that, exceptionally grand, and it’s one of those buildings you have to see in person to appreciate its splendor. Sitting in front of the market square, this place is steeped in history. If you’re looking to splash the cash on retail therapy, head to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.
It’s also renowned for its beer, chocolate, and gastronomical scene. So, if you’re a foodie like me, you’ll love Brussels no matter the time of year you visit! But in February, when it’s cold outside, it doesn’t get much better than warming up with hearty food and a tasty beer after a day of exploring.
For several evenings in February, usually in the second to third week, Brussel’s Festival of Lights illuminates the city. Follow the lights and journey through the city with artistic and playful installations. It’s an incredible show, and much of it is free. However, some interactive activities require a small fee to participate.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre translates to “five towns,” and this destination is a string of five historic fishing villages sitting on the cliff faces overlooking the ocean. Monterosso is the largest village, and I recommend staying here during February as many of the restaurants and other attractions remain open during the off-season. The five towns are within walking distance, so you can hike along the scenic coastline and visit them all.
Vernazza is the most popular of the five villages, and many guest houses remain open. Colored houses surround the harbor, a postcard-perfect place to visit. Corniglia is at the heart of the five towns but is also the quietest for those seeking a super relaxing trip.
Riomaggiore also has a beautiful harbor and is the best place to watch the sunset colors dance over the town. Lastly, Manarola also has a tiny harbor full of colorful boats, and it is here that many locals sunbathe and cliff jump. Watch them from a cozy café or join in. Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful Mediterranean spots.
Cinque Terre is surrounded by picturesque mountains and is used to cultivate olives and grapes. This region, Liguria, is famous for its wine, pesto, and seafood and enjoys highs of 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Travelers looking for a picturesque and relaxing atmosphere with plenty of hiking routes full of tasty food and friendly locals will fall in love for sure!
Cologne, Germany
Cologne is one of the best German cities to visit in February, and that’s because it hosts a carnival that rivals many of the others in Europe. It’s undoubtedly the largest carnival in Germany, so the locals call the week-long celebration “the crazy days.” So, if you want to party German style, Cologne could be the destination for you.
Another reason to visit in February is to avoid the hustle and bustle of tourist season. Cologne Cathedral, also known as Kolner Dom, is one of the most impressive cathedrals I have ever stepped into. It is the largest Gothic church in northern Europe and took over six centuries to build. If you can climb the breathtaking 533 steps up the tower, I strongly recommend it for incredible panoramic views.
The temperature in February floats between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and snow is still possible, so be sure to wrap up warm. Thankfully, Cologne is home to the famous Lindt chocolate museum and factory. Stroll across the river and treat yourself to one of the best hot chocolates you’ll ever have!
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a hugely popular destination in the summer. It boasts medieval history, incredible beaches, turquoise sea, and warm temperatures, which is why so many holidaymakers travel here. It can get very crowded, though, which is why you should consider Dubrovnik during the off-season. And there are many reasons why February should be the month you visit.
On the 2nd of February, the locals begin their celebrations of the Patron Saint of Dubrovnik, St. Blaise. The festivities carry on into the 3rd of February, which is the Day of the City of Dubrovnik, one of the most important dates of the year. Processions, releasing of doves, performances, and parties are for all to enjoy, and it’s the best time to see Dubrovnik in its most authentic way. Mid-February is also the time for carnival, so be sure to join in the fun!
The walled city is imposing, but you’ll find beautiful Renaissance and Baroque architecture inside. See the city and walk along the walls to glimpse the fortresses, battlements, and patchwork red roofs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is beautiful and full of attractions to keep you busy.
One of the best ways to see the city and nearby islands is at Dubrovnik’s Panorama Restaurant, high up on the rockside. Take the cable car up and dine over the sparkling ocean. You’ve got a much better chance of securing a window seat and romantic meal in Feb, too. And with high February temperatures of 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you can feel summer arriving.
Florence, Italy
What better way to spend the month of love than at Europe’s open-air Museum of Renaissance Art? Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region in Italy and is home to historical landmarks like the Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery (home to the world’s largest collection of Italian Renaissance art), and Palazzo Pitti. What’s more, during February, there aren’t many tourists about. So, you can explore this romantic city at your own pace.
The Florence Carnival is one of the longest celebrations in Europe, starting in the first week of February and coming to an end in the first week of March. With giant papier-mâché floats and energetic performances, there’s never a dull day in Florence during February.
Every year since 2005, Florence has also hosted the Florence Craft Chocolate Fair in the middle of February for a week. Held in the Piazza Santa Croce, chocolate artists from all over the world gather here and celebrate everything chocolate. With unique flavors and plenty of samples to try, it’s a tasty treat for chocolate lovers.
The temperatures in February hover between 40 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, which is pleasant enough to explore without freezing over. There’s little chance of snow in February, but you might encounter rain, so be sure to pack waterproofs. However you choose to spend your trip to Florence, end your day with a stroll around the romantically lit streets and a hearty Italian meal.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is the capital city of Turkey and is on the European side of the country. Although Istanbul isn’t as warm as the other destinations on my list, it allows the charm of the Turkish capital to fill the chilly winter air. The beautiful call to prayer rings through the streets, and it’s a charming city to visit in February.
Avoid the heated crowds of the summer and visit Istanbul’s historic buildings like Hagia Sophia, Topaki Palace, and Sultanahmet Mosque. Revel in their beauty without being hurried along by other admirers. After a day of exploring, why not treat yourself to a warm and steamy retreat in a Turkish Bath or Hammam?
For a truly unique experience, head to the Grand Bazaar and the sprawling markets that offer local artisanal work and other goods. It is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops and stalls selling everything you could dream of. The colors and aromas are an exploding feast for the senses.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
For anyone looking to escape the cold winter weather, Lanzarote is a top choice. Lanzarote is one of the Canary Islands, and it is my favorite. February is still cold compared to the summer, and you’ll need to pack layers. But with temperatures hovering around 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, it is typically warmer than other European destinations.
The beaches are usually deserted except for a few locals, and you might have it all to yourself in February. I stayed near Playa Blanca, one of the few sandy beaches on this volcanic island. The capital of Lanzarote is Arrecife, and this charming town offers the vibrancy of city life without the scores of tourists.
If you’re looking for a more energetic activity, explore Timanfaya National Park. This is Lanazarote’s only active volcano, and you can explore the volcanic terrain on foot or by camel ride. Thankfully, it hasn’t erupted since 1824, but watch out for the erupting geysers!
Menton, France
Menton is one of the lesser-known destinations on my list, but it is a beautiful resort that deserves much more attention than it receives. Menton sits on the French Riviera, and thanks to its broad and shallow bay, coupled with shelter from the surrounding hills, it has its own microclimate. This means it is nearly always a couple of degrees warmer than other Cote d’Azur resorts.
This warmer climate means horticulture thrives here and is one of Europe’s leading citrus fruit growers. And in mid-February, for two weeks, locals host the world-famous Menton Lemon Festival, or Fete du Citron as it’s known in France. The carnival procession parades through the streets with entertainers. But the star of the show are the giant figures made almost entirely from lemons.
In addition to the parades, there are other spectacular events to enjoy, too. A candle-lit procession fills the streets every Thursday night, followed by fireworks. And each Friday evening, the Jardins de Bioves are illuminated by a brilliant light show. If you’re looking for a more peaceful moment, head to the golden bay and take a moment to soak up the tranquility of the February sea. The pastel-colored houses are a beautiful bonus.
Nice, France
Nice sits on the French Riviera, and it is one of the most popular destinations on the coast of southern France. The temperatures during February are mild, warm enough to venture outside without too many layers, but probably not warm enough to take a dip in the sea. Although some of the hardy locals do!
In February, the Carnival de Nice takes place, and it is one of the most popular and important winter events on the Cote d’Azur. It provides visitors with two weeks of celebrations with live performers from across the globe, pretty flower parades, and firework displays. This is a family-friendly event for families looking to bring the crew.
Aside from the carnival, there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy in the less busy winter season. The city’s old town, Vieux Nice, with pastel-colored homes and many art galleries, is a haven for art lovers. Or enjoy a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and find a cozy café to enjoy the views of the winter Mediterranean Sea.
Paris, France
Paris features in many of my top European lists, but I couldn’t not mention Paris as a place to visit in February. As one of the most romantic cities on the continent, if not the most romantic, how could it not get a mention? No matter what time you visit Paris, it’s a beautiful city with plenty of must-see attractions. But in February, the romantic atmosphere is on fire!
Thankfully, February is still the low season for tourists, which means you can enjoy top attractions like the Louvre or the Van Gogh Museum without having to compete with the flocking travelers. And because of this, the locals come out to enjoy their city too, so it’s a fantastic way to meet locals and soak up the authentic Parisian atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a romantic evening, head to the Eiffel Tower at night and enjoy the city of twinkling lights at the champagne bar. Or book yourself some tickets to see the sensual show, the Moulin Rouge. Alternatively, wander through the winding streets of the bohemian Montmartre or seek out the many historic cafes in the Latin Quarter.
Prague, Czech Republic
February in Prague is not the best time of year to work on your European tan, but it’s the perfect time to explore the city without the jostling crowds in the humid heat. The average daily temperature in February is around 35 degrees, so packing thermals is a must. Lower temps mean lower tourist numbers, so it’s a brilliant choice if you can brave the cold.
Prague is one of the most romantic cities in Europe, so what better time to visit during the month of love? The mix of striking neo-renaissance and baroque architecture, illuminated stone bridges over the river, and plenty of restaurants offering outdoor heating make it feel intimate. A river cruise is one of the best things to do in Prague!
And don’t forget the carnivals, and Prague offers plenty. This city hosts the Prague Bohemian Carnival, one of Europe’s largest, and takes place at the end of the month. The procession takes you through the squares full of live music, costume characters, and food and drink.
The Zabijacka Festival celebrates pork, and restaurants offer a wide range of winter-warming dishes. The Matejska Festival is a family-friendly event that provides entertainment for several weeks in mid-February. The Mala Inventura Festival celebrates dance with plenty of performances to enjoy. There’s so much more, so be sure to check out the local tourism site for dates and other festivals. Prague has a vibrant nightlife, too, so it’s a top destination for anyone looking for a party city break.
Rome, Italy
Rome is one of the busiest European cities in the summer, with tourists flocking from all over the world hoping to glimpse some of the best Roman ruins. As you might imagine, summertime in Rome is hot, humid, and crazy busy. So why not explore this incredible city and everything it has to offer in the cooler and less crowded month of February?
With an average daily temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s not too hot and not too cold. As the month of love, whisking your loved one, or even yourself, away to this romantic city is an excellent idea for some much-needed rest and recuperation. With cheaper accommodation and airfare, you have extra cash to splash on your visit.
Head to the world’s largest Roman amphitheater, the Colosseum, and enjoy the arena in peace. Or visit the world’s smallest country, the Vatican City, and top attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St Peter’s Basilica. Usually, in the summer, these attractions are full of tourists packed shoulder to shoulder like sardines. But in February, you can marvel at them at your own pace.
The month of love should be enjoyed, not rushed. In February, the locals come out to enjoy their city without hoards of visitors. Use this time to explore the city at its finest and dine in authentic restaurants. Enjoy unhurried conversations with the locals and, as they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
Seville, Spain
Seville is a major city in Spain, landlocked in the southwest. Seville has a special place in my heart, and it is a super romantic city that certainly leaves a mark on your heart. Seville is full of grand monuments and fantastic architecture, and the fresh scent of jasmine fills the atmosphere. Even in February, the blue skies and terracotta accents make you feel warm inside.
The lower temps see tourists thin out in winter, making it a fantastic time to explore. I visited in the height of summer, and in February, and for me, February won hands down. Visiting the Alcazar, Cathedral, and Plaza de Espana in February allows tourists to enjoy the sites without the humidity and crowds.
The Parque de Maria Luisa is a tranquil and romantic place to relax for a few hours. Even in February, the orange trees and the South American influence and plants provide a vibrant and warming feel. Stroll along the Guadalquivir River and pick up a tapas-inspired winter picnic. The average daytime temperature in February hovers around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can reach up to 65. Making Seville a top choice if you want to escape the winter chills.
Venice, Italy
This is one of the only options on my list, where February is one of the busiest times to visit. And that’s because the Venetians celebrate their world-famous Venetian Carnival in February. This is one of the most famous carnivals in the world, and it has been going since 1094. The most popular carnival treat is “fritole veneziane,” a sweet bread rolled with fruits and nuts and deep fried. It’s so tasty!
Every year, locals and tourists flock to the narrow streets to be inspired by the party of color and costumes and, of course, the elaborate masks. A handful of traditional mask-maker shops are dotted around the island, where you can purchase wearable masks for the carnival or as a souvenir. I bought a beautiful cream ceramic mask surrounded by leather with gold jewels as a souvenir. The authentic masks from Venezia Maschere are stunning, and mine still hangs proudly on my gallery wall.
If you’re seeking a destination with few tourists or are not keen on carnival, I wouldn’t recommend Venice in February or early March, as you cannot escape it. The carnival attracts around three million visitors every year. Instead, try visiting in January or another off-season month. But Venice is one of my favorite destinations in Europe, and everyone should visit it at least once in their lifetime.
Vienna, Austria
February in Vienna is ball season, which runs from the end of January to the start of March. Vienesse balls offer visitors a chance to visit opulent venues, sling on a glitzy gown or smart suit, and join in traditional dances. Although balls are held all year round, February is the best time to join in on such a memorable event. Some of the best include the Ball of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vienna Opera Ball.
Another of the best things to do in Vienna in February is to visit the Wiener Eistraum, one of the world’s biggest ice rinks. You’ll also find two levels to skate on, with the Sky Rink offering a 110-meter-long ramp and a unique experience. Listen to the sounds of the waltz and glide past the city hall, which completes the fairytale setting.
Explore the city itself without having to fight off the huge crowds. The Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien are popular attractions showcasing the city’s extravagant history and architecture. Temperatures average 40 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, so you’ll need to wrap up warm.
Final Thoughts
There are so many places to visit in Europe during the month of love. Even though winter and the colder temperatures remain, the low tourist season means you can explore the city at a more laid-back pace. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in the Alps or partying away at a carnival, February is a fabulous time to explore Europe.