Europe | Destination Guides

Where is hot in February in Europe?

February is a fantastic month to explore Europe. While the first thing that comes to mind might be grey skies and winter weather, it’s not the case everywhere on the continent. There are incredible warm places in Europe to visit in February, and, since it’s low season you’ll enjoy the same beautiful places, delicious food, and local culture without the crowds and peak-season price tag for Europe tours and hotels. If you’re wondering “where is hot” in February in Europe, we’ve rounded up the very best places within Europe to chase winter sunshine, blue skies, and temperatures that often hover in the double digits. Here’s a guide to the warmest countries and regions to visit in Europe in February.

Southern Spain

The plaza de la plaza in Seville, Spain is a must-visit during springtime in Europe.
The plaza de la plaza in Seville, Spain is a must-visit in Europe.

Without a doubt, the top tip is to go south! And in southern Spain, particularly the popular region of Andalucia, the average February temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F). Down here you can enjoy a sunny day with lunch by the beach in Malaga, or explore the beautiful landmarks and sights of Seville without the crowds. Luxe hotspots like Marbella will have more affordable hotels, and it should be easier to get tickets to the Alhambra in Granda. Better yet, Cádiz Carnival is an 11-day street party each February!

Trafalgar’s 15-day Best of Spain spends quite some time along the Costa de Sol and exploring Andalucia’s favourite cities and destinations. It could be the perfect Europe tour for a warm February escape.

WHERE IS HOT IN FEBRUARY IN EUROPE: Best of Spain

Sicily, Italy

View of a cityscape featuring an ornate dome with a patterned roof, encountered on a walking tour, surrounded by other historic architectural elements, with mountains in the background.
View of a cityscape featuring an ornate dome with a patterned roof, encountered on a walking tour, surrounded by other historic architectural elements, with mountains in the background.

The southern Italian island of Sicily is another favourite for February sunshine. In the middle of winter the average daily temperature in Sicily tends to fall between 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), though by the coast is usually a bit warmer. That’s good news if you want to explore the beauty of Palermo’s old town, or connect with culture. In summer you might hear of temperatures in the 40s (100+°F), so you’ll love every cooler moment while exploring ancient ruins in the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.

February isn’t a sleepy month. You can join local festivals, such as Carnevale, when you can expect colorful celebrations with parades and festivities. Join Trafalgar’s Southern Italy and Sicily tour to discover the south for yourself.

READ NEXT: These are the 20 best winter sun destinations to experience this year 

Greece

Panoramic view of Kerkyra, capital of Corfu Island, Greece

If the sunkissed beaches of Greece are calling, there’s no reason you have to wait for the busy summer. The beautiful islands of Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, and Zakynthos offer plenty of charm and warmer winter climates, thanks to the influence of the Mediterranean Sea. Here you can go hiking, explore ancient ruins, and taste local cuisine, including dishes using seasonal produce not found during other seasons.

While it might be a little chilly to swim, there’s something to be said about cool dips – and you can work up a sweat (and courage) while exploring coastal trails and quiet villages. Off-season in Greece offers a more authentic experience, where you’ll have more chances to truly feel the warm hospitality of the Greek people. Trafalgar’s 14-day Secrets of Greece takes you over to Corfu.

READ NEXT: The Most Amazing Places to Visit in February

Algarve, Portugal

The cliffs of Algarve, Portugal are a stunning sight to behold. Explore the breathtaking views and rugged terrain, perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts alike.
The cliffs of Algarve, Portugal are a stunning sight to behold. Explore the breathtaking views and rugged terrain, perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts alike.

Portugal’s southern coastline is famous for its gorgeous golden cliffs that hide secret coves and hidden beaches. While these small patches of sand pack out in the summer months, locals love the winters here as the sun continues to beat down and the crowds disappear.  

Trafalgar’s Best of Portugal includes a few nights on the southern Algarve coast, where you’ll visit the charming historic coastal town Lagos, once the home of the legendary Henry the Navigator, and taste local seafood. 

READ NEXT: These are the warmest countries to visit in December for winter sun 

Canary Islands, Spain

La Graciosa Island in the Canary Islands of Spain

As subtropical islands closer to the coast of West Africa than Europe, Spain’s Canary Islands are the perfect winter escape in February. If your’e wondering where is hot in February in Europe, then no look not further. These eight islands are a treat for sun-seekers, with temperatures falling between 15°C (60°F) to 21°C (70°F) and just an average of 6mm of rainfall – making them the warmest European destination in February. 

Yes, even in February you can enjoy long days on the beach, explore volcanic landscapes, or simply relax by the pool. The most popular islands to visit are Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and La Palma, and each offers something different. On Tenerife you can’t miss Teide National Park, and February is a good time of year to explore.

Malta

This small island nation off the southern coast of Europe is a brilliant spot for a February visit. The daily averages in February range from 12°C (54°F) to 16°C (61°F), and while that’s into quite sun bathing weather it’s ideal for exploring the history, architecture and culture of Malta. 

On the beautiful island you can wander historic Valletta city, wandering its narrow streets to find famous landmarks, like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and its two Caravaggio masterpieces. You can also still take boat trips to the famous Blue Grotto, with its crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations, and you might catch the annual Carnival, a fun festivity with colorful parades.

French Riviera

Explore France's famous archway adorned with an abundance of fresh fruit, featured in our travel guide.
Explore France’s famous archway adorned with an abundance of fresh fruit, featured in our travel guide.

The south of France is generally at least three or four degrees warmer than the rest of the country, and the French Riviera claims to have around 300 days of sunshine a year. Both of those are good reasons to explore France’s southern coast.

On Trafalgar’s Wonderful France tour you’ll explore Monaco and the French Riviera over a few days, exploring beautiful Nice, the hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and coastal Saint-Tropez.

WHERE IS HOT IN FEBRUARY IN EUROPE: Wonderful France

Southern Italy

A traditional trullo house in Alberobello, Italy, ideal for family travel destinations, with a white stone facade, conical roofs, and decorations including hanging garlic and tomatoes.
A traditional trullo house in Alberobello, Italy, ideal for family travel destinations, with a white stone facade, conical roofs, and decorations including hanging garlic and tomatoes.

Italy is always a romantic destination, and where else would you rather be on Valentine’s Day? If you stick to southern Italy you can enjoy off-season rates and mild winter temperatures in the gorgeous Italian regions of Puglia and Calabria.

Lose yourself in the charming towns of Puglia, with their whitewashed houses and ancient olive trees. You could even stay in a trulli, a unique home to the region. Then explore the stunning coastal towns of Calabria, where winter sunshine will warm your soul. And, of course, a good red wine and bowl of pasta will make your heart sing.

READ NEXT: 10 amazing places to visit for winter sun in the USA 

Gibraltar

Sitting at the southern tip of Spain, the British territory of Gibraltar is a tiny outpost of the empire that receives plenty of sunshine in February. Cross to the Rock of Gibraltar where you can visit St. Michael’s Cave to see the Barbary Macaques (rock Apes) and learn more about the history of this place.

Settled by the Moors in the Middle Ages, it was ruled by Spain until it was ceded to the British in 1713. This strategic territory and naval base sits at the narrow entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, where half the world’s sea trade passes through the Strait of Gibraltar. You’ll pass through for a few hours on Trafalgar’s Best of Spain.

Madeira Island, Portugal

Similar to the Canary Islands, Portugal has its own subtropical island paradise closer to Africa than Europe. Madeira Island enjoys roughly the same temperatures for most of the year, with sunshine and day time highs in the 20s. The main island offers a rocky and dramatic landscape that’s popular with hikers.

Now you don’t have to wonder where is hot in February in Europe! Where are you planning to visit? Leave us a comment….

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