Where to go in February - warm destinations and countries

February is not the most obvious month for a holiday. But I really love the idea of flying somewhere warm in February. Almost every year, I escape to a place where there’s no frost, where you can walk around in a T-shirt during the day, and throw on a hoodie and scarf in the evening. Somewhere with fresh fruit and seafood. To see vibrant cities, wide beaches, deserts, or ancient ruins. Such a week-long trip to a warm country gives you strength and energy all the way until summer.

Here are my favorite destinations that I’ve visited in winter, including in February.

Lisbon, Portugal: warm sun even in February

The average daytime temperature in Lisbon and along the coast in winter is +17℃. Thanks to its geographical location on the western coast of Europe, Lisbon is the sunniest capital on the continent, making it one of the ideal places for a winter getaway.

But the pleasant warm weather isn’t the only reason to visit the city in winter. In winter, there are more available hotel rooms, and they cost almost half as much as in summer. It’s the perfect place for a last-minute winter escape. The main advantage is that with fewer tourists you’ll enjoy much lower prices and shorter wait times at restaurants or in lines for viewpoints where you can get those Instagram-worthy photos.

What to do in Lisbon and surroundings in February:

The capital of Portugal keeps its appeal thanks to a multitude of attractions, especially the charming Old Town. Sightseeing is definitely more enjoyable in winter than in the summer heat. You can enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially in areas frequented mostly by locals like Bairro Alto and Alfama.
In winter, it’s also easier to get a seat on the iconic tram No. 28 that runs through the city, or to stroll the narrow, winding streets of Alfama, the oldest and must-see district of Lisbon.
Delicious Portuguese food and wine are available at good prices all year in Lisbon.

What to do not far from Lisbon:

Sintra is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal. It’s located just 30 km from Lisbon among the forests and mountains of Serra de Sintra. This is the most popular place for a day trip from the capital, with plenty to fill an entire day.
Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, is a breathtaking headland located 40 km west of Lisbon. It’s an area with a rugged coastline, amazing views, and majestic cliffs towering over 100 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. If you want to spend a day in nature, this is an excellent choice. The scenery is the reason to come here, and a hike or two is the best way to experience this beauty.
Visit charming Cascais and its beaches. Just half an hour by train from Lisbon is Cascais, which was once the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family and other aristocrats. Located at the edge of the Portuguese Riviera, Cascais has wonderful beaches with calm southern waters as well as wild ocean beaches to the north along the Serra de Sintra coast. Cascais is lively in summer, but in winter it’s quiet and very nice to walk by the ocean or relax in cafes, enjoying the wonderful views and architecture.
If you have extra time, plan a visit to Nazaré to see the biggest waves in the world. This pretty coastal town, which used to be a fishing village, has turned into a surfer’s mecca. There aren’t many major sights, but it’s pleasant to walk around and see the traditional fishermen’s houses. Most importantly, Nazaré is famous for surfing thanks to the huge waves at Praia do Norte beach, which can be seen only in winter.

Recommended reading: 10 day trip destinations from Lisbon

Where to stay in Lisbon:

B in B Lisbon Downtown Suites – a cozy hotel in the heart of Lisbon.
Rossio Apartments – small but cozy apartments with a view of Rossio square.
Memmo Alfama – Design Hotels – Boutique hotel, one of the few in this area, some rooms have terraces with a stunning view of the river.

Recommended reading: Winter in Portugal – Lisbon

Malaga, Spain: historic palaces, sunny beaches, and hiking in a gorge

A very interesting destination for a winter vacation. Here you’ll find an amazing mix of strolls through historic towns and Mozarabic palaces, visiting safari parks with children, and hiking the spectacular Caminito del Rey gorge. Plus, you have the unique opportunity to bask on a sunny beach and even go skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains. But let’s go step by step…

What to do in Malaga and around in February:

Enjoy the bright sun at Malagueta beach. Sunny days aren’t rare in winter, so plan a walk along the sea. Kids will love playing on the sand or at playgrounds while you soak up the warmth. In Malaga and other Costa del Sol towns, seafood restaurants are open year-round. Order espeto – sardines on a stick grilled over coals – and a glass of wine to savor the sea breeze and flavors.
Plan a trip to the white town of Ronda. This stunning town perched on a cliff has an incredible bridge over the Guadalevín River – Puente Nuevo. Enjoy walking around and tasting great tapas in local bars. Buses and trains run from Malaga to Ronda, the ride takes about an hour, tickets from 5 euro one way.
Visit one of the most beautiful towns on the coast – Marbella. Marbella in Spain promises exclusive relaxation for those who love to bask in pleasant sunshine. Stroll the palm-lined promenade and the old city, where Plaza de los Naranjos square has real orange trees, especially beautiful when ripe during winter.
Go to hike in El Chorro Gorge – the legendary Caminito del Rey. It’s a 7-kilometer trail along a spectacular gorge. You can do it entirely by yourself – I wrote about this in detail: Caminito del Rey – my experience hiking the King’s Path. Or buy a tour from one of Malaga’s agencies, which includes transfer and entry tickets (which can be hard to get last-minute).
Visit the caves of Nerja. If the weather turns bad, dive into the Nerja caves . The town is about an hour by bus from Malaga. These are some of the largest caves in the world, with a record stalagmite – 40 meters tall. Nerja itself is also a wonderful city; there’s the Balcony of Europe, many fine restaurants, and a beautiful old town to explore after the caves.
Visit the Alhambra in Granada. Alhambra – one of the most visited palaces in Europe. Tickets should be bought in advance, and visiting hours for the Nasrid Palace are strictly managed. There are fewer people in winter, so it’s a good time to go. Trains run to Granada (an hour’s ride), and you’ll find yourself in a beautiful city rich in Mozarabic culture. Plan an early train there and a late train back to see the Alhambra and stroll the city.

Recommended reading: Malaga – a guide to the capital of the Costa del Sol

Where to stay in Malaga:

Apartamentos Debambú≫ – Great place to stay, the apartment is very bright, clean, and spacious. Ideal location in the center of the old town.
H-A Hotel Trebol≫ – Great location, just a few minutes’ walk to tourist sites and many bars and restaurants. Short distance from the metro station, providing easy transfer to and from the airport. Friendly, attentive staff and simple self-service breakfast. There is an elevator and rooftop terrace.

Menton, France: warm sun and a lemon festival

In the warm, sunny town of Menton on the French Riviera, the annual lemon festival – Fete du Citron – takes place. Essentially, this is a three-week lemon celebration, with carnival, parades, and performances in honor of the lemon.

The best thing about Fete du Citron is the attractive lemon aroma that fills the entire town throughout the festival. Every year, the festival draws around 160,000 foreign visitors, and rumor has it that Queen Victoria attended in 1882. This colorful and engaging event is worth seeing at least once.

Festival FAQ:

The lemon festival runs from mid-February to early March 2026.
This year, Menton celebrates its lemons under the theme “Journey to the stars.”
The festival will feature fanfares, orchestras, dancers, and folk groups.
Throughout the entire festival, you can stroll among gigantic lemon sculptures.
These creations, over 11 meters tall, can be seen both day and night in the “Gardens of the World”.
There are Thursday night “flower corso” parades, and “golden fruit corso” parades on Sundays during the day.
At the same time, the town hosts a crafts fair and the Orchid Festival. Both fairs are in the Palais de l’Europe.

The Gardens of the World is a vast botanical garden packed with bright, colorful plants, trees, and flowers, creating a truly exotic atmosphere. The garden is beautiful year-round, and in February, during the festival, it matches the theme of nature and beauty.

What to do on the French Riviera in February:

See the Nice Carnival. The city is abuzz with theatrical parades, carnival shows, live bands, and performances; the atmosphere is incredible and unforgettable.
The Flower Battle in Nice during carnival. Literally over 100,000 flowers fall from the sky – it’s spectacular and truly unique.
Take a day trip to Monaco. Visit the Oceanographic Museum with kids. Admire the luxury cars parked in Monte Carlo. Or go into the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino and try your luck for €20. More about how to spend a day in Monaco.
Relax on Menton’s beaches under the winter sun. The French Riviera is the warmest place in France in winter. Lemon-scented Menton has wonderful sandy beaches where you can warm up on the shore.
Enjoy Provençal French cuisine. Seafood, delicious dishes, and amazing desserts will make winter tastier and warmer no matter what. Savor them with local wines grown nearby in Provence and the Rhone Valley.

Where to stay in Menton:

Ibis Styles Menton Centre≫ – Located in the center, a few steps from supermarkets, bars, and the beach. Rooms have great city views and balconies, perfectly clean, and all amenities are provided. Super comfortable beds. Central location, near Plage du Borrigo.
Le Vallaya Suites & Spa≫ – Excellent location near Plage pour les Chiens. Everything you need in the room, very new, very clean. There’s a small hot water pool and a beautiful courtyard.
Hôtel Vendôme Menton – Reouverture≫ – Beautiful terrace, great location, 250 meters from Plage des Sablettes.

Where to stay in Nice – the best districts for tourists

Jordan: discover ancient temples and the desert

Jordan is a great destination to explore the desert, ancient temples, and the Dead Sea, especially in winter. Daytime temperatures can be +15-20°C, but at night in the desert, you’ll need to dress warmly. You can swim in the Dead Sea and then warm up in the hottest waterfalls. See stunning Petra with its gorges and ancient tombs, climb Mount Nebo where Moses is said to be buried. This trip could be your most vivid memory, and in winter it will be a peaceful experience without crowds.

What to see in a week in Jordan in February:

See the ancient ruins of Jerash. Arriving in the Jordanian capital Amman, rent a car and first head to Jerash, where you’ll find well-preserved ruins of the Greco-Roman city of Gerasa.
Then head to the tomb of Moses, located on Mount Nebo. Near the town of Madaba, where you can see the mosaic map of the Holy Land, you’ll find Mount Nebo. From here, there’s an amazing view of the Dead Sea and Israeli shores. According to legend, this is where Moses first saw the Promised Land. Moses, the biblical leader who led the Jews to the Promised Land, is buried here.
Swim in the Dead Sea. Descending via a winding road to the world’s lowest point – 400 meters below sea level – you’ll arrive at Jordan’s Dead Sea shores. If you take a couple of large bottles of fresh water (to rinse off the salt), you can try floating in the super-salty water.
Soak in the thermal waterfalls of Ma’in. In the Ma’in gorge, hot waterfalls cascade down from the hills, with water temperatures reaching 45-60°C. There are public thermal pools for bathing. Try this amazing experience when hot water penetrates right to your bones.
Visit Petra – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Plan to visit Petra, which deserves a couple of days to explore. You’ll find breathtaking canyons, tombs, the old treasury, the monastery, and Roman ruins. Also, buy a night tour to Petra to see the Siq and Al-Khazneh illuminated by thousands of candles.
End your trip in the Wadi Rum desert. Here you’ll see Martian red landscapes that you may have only seen in movies. Unforgettable sunrises and sunsets among the red rocks and sands will stay with you for life!

Recommended reading: Top 10 things to do in Jordan in one week

Where to stay in Jordan:

La Maison Hotel ⋙ – Good hotel in Petra, located next to the entrance, as well as many restaurants and mini-markets nearby.
Mövenpick Resort Petra ⋙ – Amazing hotel in Petra, with gym, great pool and spa, fantastic terrace and rooftop restaurant to watch the sunset over Petra. Best location for Petra in Wadi Musa, as it is right by the entrance.
In the Wadi Rum desert you can choose from several luxury camps – Rum Legend luxury camp has great reviews.

Jordan road trip – route, highlights, and travel expenses

Palermo, Italy: for warm sun in Sicily

Only 11 rainy days all winter, pleasant weather, and a huge selection of culinary delights. All this awaits you in Sicily’s capital – Palermo, a city with unique charm and character. Travelers will enjoy unforgettable sunny relaxation, vivid experiences and gourmet treats. Here you’ll find bustling markets full of fresh herbs and spices, historic cathedrals covered in mosaics and frescoes, and stunning buildings with exquisite exteriors.

What to do in Palermo and surroundings in February:

Visit Antico Caffè Spinnato for coffee and cannoli. “Antico Caffè Spinnato” is a historic café famous for both its history and delicious menu. Built in 1860, this café has always been a popular local spot to discuss current events. Renowned for its fresh coffee and mouthwatering cannoli.
See Chiesa Santa Ninfa ai Crociferi. The Church of Saint Ninfa, designed in stunning baroque-mannerist style, was built in 1601. Known for its stone façade and cylindrical ceilings, it was one of the first buildings on Via Maqueda.
Stroll through Garibaldi Garden. Garibaldi Gardens is a stunning villa surrounded by ancient trees, their massive roots almost breaking through the ground. Here grows the city’s oldest tree (150 years). Despite its serene appearance, it was once a site for executions. Today, it’s a tranquil spot for strolls or for shopping at the weekend flea market.
Explore Piazza San Domenico. One of the many squares in Palermo’s historic heart, featuring many outstanding buildings such as the Column of the Immaculate Conception and the Church of San Domenico.
Tour Cattedrale di Palermo. Also known as Palermo Cathedral, this church is famous for its unique geometric patterns and marble interior. You can also visit the cathedral treasury, home to Constance of Aragon’s 13th-century jeweled crown.
Visit the beaches of Cefalù. Take a train to the white beaches of the small town of Cefalù, just an hour from Palermo. There is a beautiful promenade and white sand beach, where people sunbathe even in winter. Then enjoy coffee on the square near the Cefalù cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Recommended reading: Sicily road trip – what to see on the island in a week

Where to stay in Palermo:

Cattedrale Central Rooms – apartments in the city center but on a quiet street, very clean and with friendly staff.
Ballaro’ Hotel – Budget Room – hotel in a lovely historic building, next to the market and other sites, close to the railway station. Great breakfast. Helpful staff.
B&B Gallidoro – Bed & Breakfast in the city center. Rooms are very clean and have thoughtful touches. The breakfast room has everything you need.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: historic walls and azure bays

Dubrovnik in Croatia invites you to a warm retreat – a city that gets at most ten rainy days in winter, offering magical views and strolls along historic walls. With fewer tourists in winter, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore Croatia at your own pace without the crowds or summer heat.

Dubrovnik – the best areas for the tourists

What to do in Dubrovnik and around in February:

Walk along the city walls stretching for 2 kilometers around Dubrovnik. But be ready to pay about €30 for a ticket – the beautiful views come at a price.
Explore the lively and colorful Stradun – the main street in Old Dubrovnik, lined with restaurants, cafes, and charming local boutiques.
Admire the stunning Franciscan Monastery, a baroque church featuring one of the oldest pharmacies in the world.
Visit the Rector’s Palace – the former palace of the Great Council, now a museum dedicated to Dubrovnik’s history. Don’t miss Sponza Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance palace.
Take in the stunning views and remarkable architecture of Fort Lovrijenac, a fort rising nearly 40 meters on a cliff above the sea.
Take in the impressive beauty and decor of St. Ignatius Church.
Wander the Lazaretti – the former quarantine buildings now hosting exhibitions, cafes, restaurants, and more.
Admire the splendor of the Ploče Gate as you cross the bridge between Old Town and Ploče.
Ride the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for unmatched panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic beyond. On a clear day it’s said you can see up to 60 kilometers away.
Travel to the Pelješac Peninsula for oysters and wine. The drive from Dubrovnik to the peninsula is itself a delight, with sea and mountain views. There are dozens of oyster farms where you can try the freshest oysters. In winter, the oysters are lean and very tender – take this chance to try them.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik:

Apartments Kirigin≫ – Great place to stay in Dubrovnik. Amazing views of Lokrum island, the Adriatic, and the Old Town. Quiet district with little tourist traffic, near Sveti Jakov beach.
Apartments Lepur≫ – Very conveniently located in the Old Town near Pile gate. Clean, with great air conditioning.
Soleil Palace≫ – Absolutely new and luxurious apartment. Perfect location in the Old Town, so you don’t have to travel to reach the sights.

Valletta, Malta: see a spectacular carnival and bask in the sun

Malta is one of the warmest places in Europe in February and a very popular spot for those seeking winter sun. This archipelago is richly adorned with historic landmarks, best seen in the colder months. You won’t find heat or summer crowds. February brings mild warm temperatures – during the day it can be +15-20℃, and the island becomes very green – it feels like spring in February.

Valletta is the best base on Malta in February. There’s so much to enjoy: from historic streets to restaurants and a scenic coast. Even just wandering the streets is a treat. And there’s one of the brightest carnivals in Europe!

What to see in Malta in February:

Take a walk through the Maltese capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit sights such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral with Caravaggio’s famous “Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” as well as the Grand Master’s Palace and Upper Barrakka Gardens with a stunning view of the Grand Harbour.
Discover the ancient city of Mdina, also known as the “Silent City,” with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and panoramic island views. Located in the north of the island, Mdina served as the capital until the Middle Ages. Today, this well-preserved fortified city gives visitors a glimpse into Malta’s rich history and heritage.
Plan a trip to Gozo island to see the bays, salt pans, and natural scenery.
Boat trip to Comino – a must! Even if the sea is cold, the caves, rocky shores, and “Blue Lagoon” are incredibly beautiful for photos, fresh air, and few people.
Marsaxlokk – a picturesque fishing village in southeastern Malta, near Valletta. Known for its colorful traditional Maltese fishing boats called “luzzu” with painted eyes on the bow, believed to ward off evil and bring fishers home safely.
The Valletta Carnival is a must-see! I planned two nights in Valletta to fully enjoy the carnival parades. It’s incredibly fun, colorful, and musical – a dance festival you have to experience in Malta in February.

Recommended reading: Malta – how to plan a 7-day trip

Where to stay in Valletta

Mandera’s Boutique Suites & Dorms≫ – great value hotel – double rooms, a rooftop Jacuzzi pool, located near Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Tritoni Harbour suites – Valletta≫ – small but very clean and comfortable apartment with kitchen – great if you want to cook for yourself.
Jean de Valette Boutique Living≫ – studio apartments with private balconies.

Warm week in February – where to go for a winter holiday

Lisbon, Portugal: warm sun even in February