20 of the best places to visit in February

This article contains affiliate links that will earn us revenue

Short haul

1. Les Arcs, France

Why go in February? For family-friendly skiing

Les Arcs is perfect for families looking for something a bit more challenging than nursery slopes but without the added pressure of a black run. There are plenty of broad, intermediate pistes here, while the Vanoise Express cable car will take you to La Plagne, the other side of the expansive Paradiski ski area, where off-piste areas will most certainly require the services of a guide. Back in Les Arcs, the seven towns and villages here are quiet enough for families, yet with plenty to do. Rather than rowdy nightclubs, you’ll find the likes of Mille8 aquatic centre at Arc 1800, or the Aiguille Rouge Illuminated Murals art trail — free to enter at Arc 2000.

Make it happen

If you’re already competent skiers, then self-catering can work out cheaper for groups than a hotel. Run by Chalet des Neiges, La Cime des Arcs offers 53 apartments in the heart of Arc 2000 near the lifts. Spacious and modern, they give you access to a pool and sauna.

If you may need ski lessons, consider Club Med’s Les Arcs Panorama. The all-inclusive prices cover lessons for adults and children.

Read our full guide to ski holidays

2. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Why go in February? For a meeting of land and sea under the aurora

It takes only three months for the Lofoten Islands, sitting above the Arctic Circle in Norway, to catch their first glimpse of the midnight sun after many weeks of 24-hour night or twilight — and February sits in the middle of the period when it all starts to shift. This is the month to balance having enough darkness to hope for a sighting of the northern lights, with at least a few hours of sun to light up these majestic islands, where mountain ranges meet the ocean. A highway threads along the chain as far as the concisely named village of A, passing old fishing settlements where wooden cabins perch on stilts at the water’s edge.

Make it happen

Get a taste of a fisherman’s life from the days of old by staying in one of the 38 cabins at Svinoya Rorbuer in the town of Svolvaer.

Wrap up warm for this snowy four-night, self-guided trip to the Lofoten Islands with Regent Holidays. It includes a stay in a cosy cabin, a tour with an expert photographer and optional activities including sea kayaking and a sea eagle Rib safari.

• How to see the northern lights
• Best northern lights cruises

3. Venice, Italy

A masked carnivalgoer at St Mark’s Square

ALAMY

Why go in February? For costumes and masquerades

For two weeks each February, Venice comes alive for carnival season. There are free and ticketed events throughout the city, ranging from concerts and operas to acrobatic performances and treasure hunts. At the centre of the action is St Mark’s Square, where there are daily shows featuring elaborate costumes and masks. For visitors, getting into the spirit of things means dressing up too, especially if attending one of the balls. Get organised well in advance, as prices for outfit hire tend to be steep.

Make it happen

For some respite away from the action, stay at the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa, which sits on its own private island and has shuttles to the mainland.

• Best things to do in Venice

4. Tenerife, Spain

Why go in February? Reliable winter sun without the long flight

In February, temperatures in Tenerife can reach a very agreeable 22C, helping to shake off some of that winter chill. You’ll be just in time for carnival in the capital, Santa Cruz, kicking off with a parade on the Friday before Shrove Tuesday, followed by two weeks of festivities. Elsewhere on the island, you can stargaze on Mount Teide, hike in Anaga Rural Park, or sip your way through Tenerife’s many excellent wineries. February is a particularly good time to spot whales too, with fin whales and humpbacks passing the island during their annual migration.

Make it happen

Hotel Emblematico Hi Suites puts you right in the centre of Santa Cruz and some rooms have kitchenettes if you want to cook your own meals.

For a good overview of the Canary Islands, Brightwater Holidays offers an eight-day Glorious Gardens of the Canary Islands tour that starts in Tenerife and includes a visit to Mount Teide.

• Read full guide to winter sun holidays

5. Valais, Switzerland

Why go in February? For hitting the ski runs in the most Alpine of settings

Assorted European half-term holidays can make ski resorts in the Alps busy in February, and this month is typically the best for finding powdery snow. If Switzerland is the heart of the Alps, then the canton of Valais is an excellent vignette: French-speaking in the west, German-speaking in the east, with the pinnacle of the Matterhorn almost halfway. Zermatt, Verbier and Crans-Montana are among the best-known resorts, but under-the-radar alternatives include Grimentz, which has kept much of its traditional wooden architecture, and the valley of the Lotschental — of interest even to non-skiers for its slightly scary Tschaggata carnival where revellers wear frightening masks.

Make it happen

The 32-room Alpina Eclectic Hôtel in Grimentz has an ideal location between the two main ski lift stations in the village, with an unfussy modern Alpine look inside and cycling facilities for the summer season.

While a doozy for intermediates, family-friendly Crans-Montana has plenty of activities for non-skiiers too, from ice skating to snow tubing and fatbiking. Gourmet food is to the fore in the upmarket village too. Stay near the gondola at the modern yet cosy Faern Valaisia, which has an indoor pool.

• When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

6. Vienna, Austria

Why go in February? For a city break without the crowds

With temperatures hovering around a chilly zero, February is not the most obvious time of year to visit Vienna, nor is it the most popular. But that’s the whole point: you get to enjoy this beauty of a baroque capital without the crowds. Better still, its famous coffee houses are perfect for escaping the cold, while a clutch of world-class museums provide a generous culture fix. For those wanting to live the high life, February is the tail end of the ball season, with events held at City Hall, the Vienna State Opera and Hofburg palace.

Make it happen

The Amauris Vienna is a gorgeous Relais & Châteaux property just down the road from the opera house.

• Best affordable hotels in Vienna

7. Valletta, Malta

Why go in February? For parade floats in a superb fortress city on the Med

It may be low season, but expect crowds the week before Ash Wednesday as this island nation comes out for carnival. Small but rich in historic sights, capital Valletta is the centre of the action, with larger-than-life floats parading colourful, often satirical, figures, along with dancers in equally eye-popping get-up. Elsewhere, festivities on the island of Gozo include the Nadur Carnival, and its more macabre themes. Costumed merriment aside, it’s a mild time in Malta, with temperatures around the low teens; not exactly beach weather, but a fine choice for some winter sun while staying just inside Europe.

Make it happen

By the waterfront in Senglea, one of the Three Cities across the water from Valletta, the Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour has 21 suavely contemporary suites inside a 16th-century bastion.

Get your bearings with a small-group guided walking tour of the capital, with a chance to explore the famous ruins of Pjazza Teatru Pjal and the Museum of Fine Arts.

• Best things to do in Malta

Mid and long haul

8. Koh Samui, Thailand

Why go in February? For a later start to perfect beach weather

Koh Samui and its neighbouring islands in the Gulf of Thailand are at their driest in February, after a short but intense wet season from October to December. This is Thailand’s second-largest island after Phuket, so expect plenty of variety in its beaches, activities and hotels. It’s also a gateway to the likes of jungle-clad Koh Phangan, an island to the north famous for its full moon parties, but with quieter areas too; and smaller Koh Tao, best for diving and snorkelling.

Make it happen

All-villa accommodation on a small private island just off the northeast shore of Koh Samui makes Cape Fahn a luxurious choice.

Wendy Wu has a three-night Koh Samui beach extension that can be added to any of its Thailand group tours or private itineraries.

• Best islands to visit in Thailand

9. New Orleans, US

Why go in February? For the biggest of parties in the home of good times

Old-world streets decked out in green, purple and gold announce the arrival of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. In the two weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday, parades and parties by “krewes” (carnival clubs) reach fever pitch with floats, jazz and body paint. It’s a busy time to visit, but much less humid than in Louisiana’s summer months, when temperatures are generally in the high 20s. You’ll find a more local vibe to Mardi Gras away from the heritage façades and tourist traps of the French Quarter.

Make it happen

Henry Howard Hotel is a townhouse dating from 1867, with a classical colonnade and part-contemporary design, one block back from a big parade route along St Charles Avenue.

Though it normally departs during summer, Travelsphere’s Best of the Deep South tour runs a special February edition so that guests can sample Mardi Gras in the Big Easy.

• The ultimate guide to Mardi Gras in New Orleans
• Best hotels in New Orleans

10. Eastern Cape, South Africa

Why go in February? For inspiring scenery and safaris in South Africa’s second-largest province

Summer in South Africa is both the driest time of year around Cape Town in the southwest and the wettest as you go northeast towards Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park. The picture is more diverse in the province of the Eastern Cape, where variety — in more than just climate — is key to the appeal. Its boundaries encompass coastal trails at the eastern end of the Garden Route, the semi-desert surrounds of the Karoo and Addo Elephant National Park where you may hope to tick off the big five. The Wild Coast to the east is as green and rugged as the name suggests.

Make it happen

Woodall Country House & Spa is ideally positioned for trips to see Addo’s elephants, and has spacious country estate-style rooms on a working citrus farm.

After a safari in Kruger National Park, Riviera Travel’s group tour journeys along the Garden Route before visiting the Winelands and Cape Town.

• Best stops on the Garden Route

11. Dubai, UAE

Why go in February? For not-too-scorching sightseeing and outdoor activities

By summer, the temperature in Dubai regularly tops 40C and many outdoor attractions close, but in February, you can make the most of mild, sunny days to see the sights in comfort. The city has countless sporty pursuits to try, from cycling along a converted camel track near Meydan Racecourse to zooming down the world’s longest urban zip line at Dubai Marina. Take a stroll around Global Village, which has pavilions showcasing the culture of over 90 countries, or head into the desert for dune bashing, sandboarding and quad biking.

Make it happen

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai has its own private beachfront, perfect for making the most of the winter sunshine. The hotel sits within easy reach of all the sights, including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina and the Palm Jumeirah.

Abercrombie & Kent’s seven-day the Emirates: From Desert to City itinerary offers six nights at the gorgeous One&Only One Za’abeel, plus a night in the desert at Al Maha, where you’ll be able to spot oryx and gazelle and whizz across the dunes on 4×4 drives.

• Best affordable hotels in Dubai

12. Baja California, Mexico

Why go in February? For extraordinary wildlife encounters

This is a generally dry and slightly cooler time of year across Mexico. Winter sun aside, the best reason to visit in February is to catch some incredible animal migrations. Millions of monarch butterflies are getting ready to fly north after their winter stay in the forested mountains of the Michoacan-Mexico State border. And in the lagoons on the coast of Baja California, grey whales come right up to visitor boats in some of the world’s most well-managed wildlife encounters. You’ll find both high-end resorts and abundant nature reserves along this 700-mile peninsula.

Make it happen

In the Baja Sur town of Loreto, which is often a base for whale-watching trips, La Mision Loreto Hotel is a modern outpost with hacienda-style touches, right on the shores of the Gulf of California.

After sailing the length of Baja California from Los Angeles, Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas will call at chichi Cabo San Lucas before exploring the beach-lined Mexican Riviera.

• Best hotels in Mexico

13. Ari Atoll, Maldives

Why go in February? For beach time and underwater discoveries in the clearest conditions

The almost 1,200 tropical islands of the Maldives experience their driest month in February. They are grouped into 26 atolls that lie in an elongated loop, like necklaces within a necklace, suspended in the midst of the Indian Ocean. Whale sharks tend to move to the eastern atolls around December and back west again in May, but at Ari Atoll on the western side these gentle giants can be spotted year-round.

Make it happen

Well placed for spotting whale sharks and manta rays, LUX* South Ari Atoll has overwater villas and thatched beach bungalows on a mile-long island, plus eight restaurants and plenty of family options.

Read our full review of LUX* South Ari Atoll

If you’d rather the security of a package, book with British Airways Holidays to throw in return flights and breakfast.

• Best overwater villas in the Maldives

14. Palawan, Philippines

Why go in February? For tropical island-hopping in comfortable climes

With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines defies easy categorisation, but it’s true that apart from along a narrow eastern fringe, February is the month with the lowest rainfall. It’s still high season and there are fewer tourists than in the New Year period, plus there’s a host of celebrations including Baguio’s flower festival, making February a great time to explore. Inland attractions include the Banaue Rice Terraces and the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, but the call of white sands and turquoise waters speaks loudest. The province of Palawan has world-class wreck diving and — in the Bacuit Archipelago around El Nido — a wonderland of limestone islets sheltering secret coves.

Make it happen

One of a small group of hotels dotted around northern Palawan, El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island has rooms in thatched cottages perched on stilts between sheltered waters and green cliffs.

Setting off from Manila, capital of the Philippines, Intrepid Travel’s eight-day group tour combines Palawan’s natural wonders with a chance to meet its indigenous Batak tribe.

• Best beaches in the Philippines

15. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Why go in February? For gorilla encounters and other wonders of nature

Most of Uganda gets two dry-ish seasons — December to February and June to September — and although the first is the wetter of the two, it’s also a less busy time to visit. Thinner vegetation at the end of this first lull in the rains makes it easier to spot wildlife. Uganda’s Western Region is home to many of the country’s biggest draws, from the elephants and lions of Murchison Falls National Park in the north, to the otherworldly flora of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in the south. Book well ahead for guided treks in the prime sanctuary for mountain gorillas.

Make it happen

At the southern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Rushaga Gorilla Lodge has comfortable cottages part-way in style between log cabins and safari tents.

Abercrombie & Kent has 11-day tours across Uganda, including three days in Bwindi. There’s also the chance to spot tree-climbing lions, and you can add on chimpanzee trekking. Accommodation is at the higher end throughout.

• Best safaris in Africa

16. Singapore

Why go in February? For glorious sunny days, low humidity and Chinese New Year celebrations

Singapore emerges from its rainy season in February and gears up to celebrate Chinese New Year with fireworks, light displays and city-wide entertainment. Sunny days and low humidity are perfect for wandering the city’s distinctive districts, including Chinatown with its temples and markets, Little India with its brightly coloured buildings and spice stalls, and Kampong Gelam whose gold-domed Sultan Mosque towers over fragrant Middle Eastern restaurants and bunting-strung shopping streets. Toasty warm nights mean you’ll still only need short sleeves after dark to watch the daily light show at the famous Gardens by the Bay.

Make it happen

Pan Pacific Singapore looms over the busy Orchard Road district like a giant, foliage-wrapped Jenga puzzle. Cool off after sightseeing on its fifth-floor beach terrace with city views.

See the best of the city with a tailored Singapore Past & Present itinerary from Inside Asia, which includes a street food tour, trip to the ArtScience Museum and a day of cycling through primary rainforest on Pulau Ubin Island.

17. Tasmania, Australia

Why go in February? For late summer days in Australia’s island state

The last days of January signal “back to school” across Australia, but temperatures remain near their summer highs well into February, accompanied by tropical rains in northern parts. At the other end of the continent, the island of Tasmania is at its sunniest and its landscapes are at their most inviting, from the vivid colours of the beaches at the Bay of Fires, to the epic vistas of Cradle Mountain. Add to that a mix of both familiar Australian critters and locally endemic wildlife (wallabies, wombats, Tasmanian devils), food and wine trails, plus cultural discoveries in the capital Hobart, and Australia’s outlier state promises a well-rounded holiday.

Make it happen

On the east coast en route from Hobart to the Bay of Fires, the Piermont Retreat is a beachside collection of stone cottages accompanied by a fine farm-to-table restaurant.

Fairy penguins, quaint coastal towns, rainforests, powder-white sands and pink peaks all await on Intrepid’s six-day Tasmanian group tour, which departs throughout February.

• The best Australian experiences

18. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why go in February? For samba and sequins in a spectacularly set city

While the pre-Lenten carnival season brightens up winter in its European home, over in Brazil the revelry happens at the height of summer. It’s a favourite Brazilian holiday time despite bursts of rain in much of the country — apart from the northeast, where Salvador and Recife have their own proud carnival traditions. If you’re looking for pure spectacle, Rio de Janeiro’s show tops the bill — whether you score a ticket to the dazzling parade at the 90,000-seat Sambadrome, or join in with the beating of drums at neighbourhood parties, watched over by Sugarloaf Mountain and the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

Make it happen

Belmond Copacabana Palace is as central to the Rio experience as the carnival and is right on Copacabana beach.

Silversea offers various itineraries in South America, usually starting or ending in Rio, including a ten-day voyage to Buenos Aires. There’s even a whopping 132-day world cruise from Miami to Nice, with two nights in Rio.

• Rio Carnival guide: everything you need to know

19. Atlantic Canada, Canada

Why go in February? For winter festivals and city hopping in the snow

In a country the size of Canada — nearly four million sq miles — it’s a pleasant surprise to find out the four great cities of Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto all lie within an eight-hour drive of each other. Clustered along the northeastern US border, these dynamic cities come alive in late January and February with festivals, parties and icy adventures. Quebec City’s huge Winter Carnival has dog sledding, night parades, ice canoeing, snow and ice sculptures and musical evenings — plus snow-set maple taffy. Late January and early February see Montreal’s amazing electronic dance music festival, Igloofest, where ravers fight the freeze well into the night, and Ottawa’s Winterlude festival celebrates indigenous culture with ice sculptures and shows. Toronto has the food-focused Winterlicious and Markham Jazzlicious WinterFest. Don’t forget to visit Niagara Falls along the way, and the Rideau Canal, which turns into the world’s largest ice rink each winter.

Make it happen

The Drake Hotel in Toronto is a Victorian-era original that fell on hard times, but has been revived in the 21st century with a fun, warehouse-conversion vibe.

Canada’s Eastern Cities by Train from Audley is a tour that can be adapted to your needs. The recommended route takes you through all four cities by train, spending two to three days in each, plus a day trip to Niagara Falls.

audleytravel.com

• Best hotels in Quebec

20. Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Why go in February? For rainforest wildlife and unspoilt sandy beaches

Central America’s eco-tourism star receives tropical downpours throughout the year in most places (hence its resplendent rainforest), but if you’re on the Pacific coast, February is a drier time — busy, but less so than January or Easter. Puntarenas Province covers most of Costa Rica’s western shore, including the tip of the Nicoya peninsula, where you’ll find relaxed beach vibes around the town of Montezuma. Further along are two of the country’s top national parks: Manuel Antonio (small and accessible, and very biodiverse) and more remote but stunning Corcovado on the Osa peninsula.

Make it happen

Perched on a green hillside between Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, Oxygen Jungle Villas has a Bali-inspired vibe and ocean views from the infinity pool.

Manuel Antonio features in Intrepid Travel’s 14-night Classic Costa Rica small-group escorted tour —which includes a visit to Tortuguero National Park and La Fortuna.

• Best places to see wildlife in Costa Rica

Have we missed anywhere? Share your tips in the comments below