Best Places to Visit in Europe in February 2023 (+ travel tips)
Christmas has passed and the excitement of starting a whole new year has dimmed, so now surely it’s time for a holiday? In fact, we think February might just be one of the most underrated months to travel to Europe, with a combination of smaller crowds, cheaper flights and great deals on accommodation. But where are the best places to visit in Europe in February? Luckily for you, we’re here to tell you.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, some winter sun or just a break from the mundanity of everyday life, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best places to visit in February in Europe. We’ve included something for every kind of traveller, whether you like it hot or cold. To help you choose, we’ve included where is hot in February in Europe, as well as some bonus destinations that will be a little chillier, but fabulous nonetheless.
So, what are you waiting for? Scroll through our list of where to go in February in Europe in 2023 and get planning your next holiday!
If you’re bored of the cold, rainy British weather already, you’re probably looking for a warm place in February in Europe. Whether you just can’t handle the cold or are looking to get a winter tan, we’ve compiled a list of the warmest places in Europe in February for you to enjoy. These five cities remain warm and sunny during February and are more or less pleasant throughout the entire year. So, if you’re desperate for some winter Vitamin D, these hot places in Europe in February are perfect for you!
The southernmost region of Portugal, close to North Africa, the Algarve is one of the warmest places in Europe in February to visit. You’ll experience pleasant temperatures ranging between 9-17°C, with almost no rainfall after its wettest month of January. Known for its golden sandy shores, magnificent landscape, rich culture and inspiring gastronomic scene, it’s surprising that this warm place in Europe in February has managed to remain under the radar when it comes to tourists. This means fewer crowds, quieter beaches and great deals on hotels, making the Algarve one of the best warm places in Europe in February. And aside from sunbathing, February is the perfect time to go hiking up cliffs and get involved in the region’s events and festivals that happen at this time of year, including the renowned Semana de Chocolate (chocolate week) and annual Loulé Carnival.
Another one of the warmest places in Europe in February is Kyrenia, Cyprus, where the temperature sticks between 6-16°C. Located on the northern side of the island, the Kyrenia region has plenty to offer tourists during the off-season of February. You’ll be able to enjoy clear blue skies and fewer crowds and queues at some of the city’s most renowned archeological sites and crusader castles. February is also the perfect time to take advantage of Kyrenia’s white-sand beaches, beautiful walks and other activities, such as scuba diving and volleyball.
Complete with winter sunshine, lively Carnival celebrations and plenty of fun activities for couples, families or even solo travellers, Barcelona is certainly one of the best places to visit in February in Europe. The Catalan capital is one of Europe’s top tourist destinations, especially during the summer months, when travellers like to take full advantage of the hot weather, coastal location and the Mediterranean sea. Barcelona isn’t just great during summer, though; it’s one of the best warm places Europe in February. With temperatures ranging between 9-15°C, the temperatures are perfectly pleasant for roaming the city streets and popping in and out of shops. And there’s an impressive selection of festivals and activities happening in the city at this time of year, including the Barcelona Carnical, Santa Eulàlia Festival, Chinese New Year Celebration and the Llum BCN – Festival Llum. Meanwhile, the nightlife and culinary scene won’t disappoint!
In the depths of winter, this glitzy city’s mild Mediterranean climate makes it one of the warmest places in Europe in February to get your Vitamin D fix. Often referred to as the ‘Billionaires Playground’, Monte Carlo is the perfect place to visit with your beloved on Valentine’s Day and treat them to something special. During this time of year, you can check out Monte Carlo’s most glamorous events and be immersed in its rich culture and sports scene. And averaging 10-13°C and the sun shining for a good 8 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to explore this magnificent European city! Be sure to pay a visit to the most famous casino in the world, Monte-Carlo Casino, or strolling along the quarters of Monaco-ville, or dining at fancu Michelin-starred restaurants. Monte Carlo, in Monaco, is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in February for anyone looking to spoil themselves or someone else.
More of the best places to visit in February in Europe
If you’re embracing the cold of winter instead of craving some sun, we’ve also rounded up some of the best colder places to visit in February in Europe. From snowy scenes to serene cities, we’ve got the best places to visit in Europe in February. So pack your woolly jumpers, hats and scarves and discover where to go in February in Europe:
The first cold destination on our list that’s good to visit in Europe in February is the world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik. In February, the entirety of Iceland is still in the depths of winter, with temperatures ranging from lows of -2°C to highs of just 3°C. The city is also almost entirely shrouded in darkness during this time of year, which gives you ample opportunity to spot the beauty of the Northern Lights. With reduced light pollution and minimal sunshine, this is the best time of year to see the colourful glow in the sky. The winter months also present opportunity for plenty of unique activities, such as ice caving, glacier hiking and whale watching.
Although February is one of the colder months in Venice, with temperatures sitting at around 8°C, it is still one of the best cities to visit in Europe in February. It is during this time of year that Venice comes alive with dark, romantic alleyways, traditional gondolas floating atop the mist, and quaint buildings looking particularly attractive. The chill in the air makes it perfect for you to sip on warming Italian coffee while nibbling on delicious, hot cicchetti. In February, one of the city’s most renowned annual events takes place, the Carnival of Venice, a 700 year old celebration that makes the city even more charming than usual.
The capital of the Netherlands is another one of the best places in February in Europe for those looking to snuggle in the coziness of Amsterdam’s chilly winter. During this time of year in Amsterdam, the climate can be very crisp, with temperatures ranging between 0-6°C and falling snow, dark nights and twinkling lights. You’ll be able to make the most of winter with trip to Amsterdam in February, with the city coming alive with a ton of night markets, piping hot street food and a range of fun activities. There will also be a number of celebrations and events, including Chinese New Year, De Koninck Blues Festival and the Wonderland Festival.
Situated at the base of the Julian Alps and beside the glacial Lake Bled, this resort town is one of the best places to visit in February in Europe. February is the last full month of the winter season here and is the perfect time to enjoy some snow and a number of festivals without the usual crowds. The most famous festival held in Bled is the Slovenian Mardi Gras, where you can enjoy dancing, parades, tasty treats and more. Bled can also be a very romantic city to visit for Valantine’s Day in February – take a ride in a traditional Pletna to Bled Island, where you can marvel at the picturesque views of the surrounding areas.
There you have it: the best places to visit in Europe in February in 2023! Whether you’re looking for a sunny winter getaway or a snowy one, you’re sure to find somewhere to holiday with loved ones on our list.
Techno-Mads 
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