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The best places to visit in February include romantic getaways, sun holidays and cool city breaks. 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 Northern Lights.
Budget on your mind? Skip to KAYAK’s top data-backed picks based on popularity, flight, and hotel prices.
Note: To skip the crowds avoid travelling during the February half-term (Monday 17 February to Friday 21 February 2025). Flights during these weeks can also increase significantly.
The best long-haul places to visit in February
Hoping to escape the cold of the UK? Or maybe you just need a complete change of scene somewhere far away? Here are some of the best international holiday destinations to visit this February.
1. Beijing, China
- Learn more: Beijing travel guide
- Why visit in February? Chinese New Year festivities (January 29th to February 2nd)
China’s New Year (also known as the Spring Festival or Chunjie) witnesses one of the largest human migrations in the world. Visiting Beijing at this time of year is a one-of-a-kind spectacle.
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. A visit to the many night markets of Beijing is another must. My food tips would be to try the Guijie (Ghost Street), Qianmen and Longfusi food streets.
Keep in mind the city will be extremely busy with visitors celebrating the New Year.
2. Goa, India
- Learn more: Guide to the best times to visit India
- Why visit in February? Pleasant temperatures and a myriad of cultural attractions
Goa is one of the best places to visit in February for sun. The area and its main port spent a long time as a Portuguese territory, giving it a different feel to the rest of India. A popular beach holiday destination, Goa has over 103 km of stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches to explore.
Palolem and Candolim beaches stand out in North Goa, while Colva and Benaulim beaches are popular in South Goa. For some culture, 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 delicious, too. Make sure you try the many incredible fish dishes inspired by Portuguese cuisine.
3. San Jose, Costa Rica
- Learn more: San José 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.
San José is filled with culture, art and delicious food. While you’re there explore the barrios of Amon and Escalante before leaving 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 these attractions are just a couple of hour’s drive or bus trip away from San Jose.
You might even 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. Expect a warm and welcoming place, with the heat slowly rising until the end of February when the annual Mardi Gras Festival is celebrated. For a few days, New Orleans becomes a heady mix of live music, street parades and beaded revelry.
A visit to the French Quarter and a healthy dose of indulging in local foods are highly recommended 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.
If you do decide to celebrate Mardi Gras this February, make sure you book your accommodation well in advance.
5. Quebec, Canada
- Learn more: Québec travel guide
- Why visit in February? Enjoy the Quebec Winter Carnival until Feb 16th
For nearly 70 years, Québec has hosted 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.
After the celebrations head Northeast for about 40km from Québec City to Mont-Sainte-Anne for winter hikes and fantastic skiing and snowboarding. Mone-Sainte-Anne is the perfect ski resort for all abilities. There’s even night skiing on 19 different trails.
Just remember to wrap up warm and pack the right footwear as winter in Canada can be extremely cold.
Best places to visit in February in Europe
When it comes to where to travel in February closer to the UK, check out these European destinations. While temperatures are still low across most of the continent, there are a few spots blessed with milder temperatures.
6. Tromso, Norway
- Learn more: Tromsø travel guide
- Why visit in February? Snow sports and the spectacular Northern Lights
For a real winter adventure this February visit Tromsø. Whilst Norway is not the cheapest country in the world to visit, its wealth of incredible natural attractions sets it apart, especially in winter.
Tromsø 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 Tromsø 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
Ibiza is far more than just parties. The island is 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. The vibe is also more calm with the majority of clubs closed until the summer. That said, many of the cafes and restaurants remain open. 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.
Where to go in February on a budget
Fancy a break but don’t want to spend too much? Here’s my favourite pick for a cheap February holiday. Top tip: avoid visiting around Valentine’s week for even cheaper deals on flights and hotels.
10. Budapest, Hungary
- Learn more: Great winter city breaks
- Why visit in February? Snowy scenes and quieter streets
With flight prices averaging around £150, Budapest has to be one of the best European cities to visit in February if you’re sticking to a tight travel budget. It’s also a magical place to visit in the winter months – thanks, in part, to its amazing thermal spas that were even more relaxing on cooler days. It’s not uncommon to see the city blanketed in snow. Plus, February is definitely one of the quietest months to visit if you’d rather avoid the crowds.
As well as booking a bathing session at the beautiful Gellert Baths, I’d recommend spending an afternoon wandering around Buda Hill. It’s where you’ll find the picture-perfect Fisherman’s Bastion, plus the Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle with its multi-coloured tiled roof. Need a reprieve from the cold? Check out the Hungarian National Gallery or swot up on the city’s war history at the Hospital in the Rock museum.
On the Pest side of the city, there’s even more to enjoy. Tick off icons like the elegant Hungarian Parliament Building and St Stephen’s Basilica. You can then warm up with a strong glass of palinka (traditional fruit brandy) in
FAQs about February breaks
If a Valentine’s getaway is on your mind, you’ll have no shortage of awesome places to visit in February. Enjoy a sun-soaked beach escape in Goa or stroll hand in hand through Valletta’s historic streets. Adventure-seekers will also love a trip to Costa Rica to glimpse volcanic explosions and walk through mesmerising cloud forests.
For a snowy getaway in Europe, you can’t go wrong with enchanting Tromsø. Budapest is another great wintery option that won’t leave quite as much of a dent in your bank balance. Or why not venture south to the Med where things are beginning to warm up a little in Greece and Spain?
Data-backed picks from KAYAK
If seasonal events aren’t on your wishlist, why not consider one of the destinations below? These destinations are based on KAYAK flight and hotel data, taking into account budget, weather, and popularity (so you can avoid the crowds). For personalised recommendations based on your location and chosen destination check out the Best Time to Travel tool.
Find more holiday inspiration
The following information refers to the destinations listed in the table.
Recommendation ranking within table:
Our recommendation ranking of where to go is calculated based on average flight prices, average hotel prices, popularity, average temperature, and average precipitation. Flight prices, hotel prices, popularity, and precipitation constitute inverse factors, meaning the lower the better. Average temperature optimal values are taken as the median for the destination, and a difference is calculated for the month from this reference point. The smaller the difference, the more desirable the city is to visit in this month. This temperature factor weighs twice as much as popularity and precipitation.
From the ranked destination lists, destination exclusions may have been applied in cases of insufficient data or according to the official travel advisory at the time when the data analysis was conducted.
Flight and hotel prices:
Average prices are estimated from KAYAK internal data from the search period ‘01-07-2024’ to ‘15-11-2024’ for the travel period ‘01-01-2025 - 28-02-2025'. Flight prices include economy class return trips for one traveller, and hotel prices represent the nightly rates for a standard double room for hotels with three stars or below. Price insights may vary depending on the exact departure airport and over time as travel dates are approaching.
Popularity:
Monthly crowd estimates for each destination are determined by internal flight and hotel search data. This incorporates the latest historical insights from the past year collected on ‘15-01-2024’. For each destination, this popularity estimate is pulled for the particular month to gauge where it might not be too crowded.
Weather (average monthly temperature and precipitation):
Weather data is pulled from a third-party site, Weatherbase, and has not been verified by KAYAK. Monthly average temperature and precipitation data isbased on historical insights from the past 102 years. Weatherbase data is updated in real-time from the US Census Bureau and other databases worldwide.
The post The 10 best places to visit in February for a winter break appeared first on KAYAK Blog UK.
