15 Best Places To Go in Europe in February 2026

February is one of my favourite months to travel in Europe. Sure, the weather isn’t always reliable, but there’s a surplus of excellent events across the continent. From the age-old traditions of February’s lively carnival celebrations and the romantic call of Valentine’s Day abroad to ski slopes stacked with fresh powder and northern lights adventures in the Arctic – narrowing down the list of best places to visit in February in Europe is somewhat of a challenge.

That said, if you want to try to escape the cold, grey, gloomy days at home, there are a handful of warm places to visit in Europe in February, too. During the February half-term break, the middle of the month is also a popular time to see some of Europe’s most family-friendly holiday destinations. Plus, as a bonus, there are also usually plenty of deals to snap up in the off-season away from these significant events.

To help you plan where to go in Europe in February, I’ve split this article into five sections, covering ski and snow, winter sun, romantic escapes, cultured city breaks, and offbeat celebrations. I’ve also avoided generic tips like ‘go to London because it’s less busy’ and instead focused on destinations with something special happening in February, so you can make your well-timed visit particularly memorable.

Best European adventure, aurora, snow and ski destinations in February 2026

For fresh powder lovers, the best European vacations in February take place on the pistes, but skiing isn’t the only activity available this month. Northern lights chasing, snowshoeing, and Arctic adventures abound in the winter climates of the north. 

The French Alps

Arguably the most iconic ski destination on the planet, France’s reign as the ultimate place for first-class pistes and après-ski is undisputed. The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, with its more than 150 ski and winter sports resorts, has something for everyone — ranging from the most indulgent and luxe properties with direct access to some of Les 3 Vallées best ski runs to more affordable ski passes in Le Semnoz.

France’s slopes are also an excellent February half-term destination as they are quick and easy to reach, either on a short flight to Chambéry, Grenoble or Lyon or by bundling everyone in the car and driving over on the Channel Tunnel. Family-friendly ski resorts are in no short supply, with companies such as Sno having dedicated packages and lodges suitable for children of any age. Some chalets and resorts offer kids’ clubs, teens’ ski schools, or even creches and child care.

Another of the best events in February in Europe takes place around the upscale resort of Courchevel, where the Pyrotechnic Arts Festival brightens the skies with fireworks and torchlit evenings from the 10th February.

Nordland, Norway

Norway’s least populated region, Nordland, is perhaps best known for the cinematic Lofoten Islands. Here, the scenery is spectacular in February, when snow coats the dramatic peaks, and Rorbu cabins (traditional fishing huts) add a splash of colour. But there are plenty more winter snow adventures to have in the north of the country, with ski resorts around Narvik and snowshoeing in the Arctic — part of Lapland is also within Nordland’s borders. Best of all, some of Norway’s best long-distance train journeys depart and arrive from here, and the Nordland Travel Pass will allow you to explore the whole region car-free. 

But there are a couple of extra reasons why Norland is one of the best places to visit in Europe in Winter 2026. The aurora borealis (northern lights) are predicted to be particularly impressive between 2024 and 2026 as the 12-year Solar Cycle peaks, meaning that as long as there is a clear evening, the sky should put on a proper show pretty regularly, as we’ve even seen in southern Europe in recent years.

Tyrol, Austria 

The Austrian Alps come alive in winter, and with snow adventures and skiing among the best things to do in Austria, February is a fantastic time to visit this mountainous, scenic region. There is a huge array of ski resorts in this corner of Austria, ranging from famous slopes around Ischgl and Serfaus to more beginner-friendly runs at Kitzbühel. Cross-country skiing is also possible, while the younger ones have plenty of sledging opportunities.

February’s charm isn’t just fresh snow; the Tyrol region is laden with history and tradition. As in many other European countries, the February carnival time adds colour to the otherwise white landscapes. The parades of Tirolean Carnival, or Fasnacht, take place in most towns, and you can expect plenty of traditional dress alongside costumes of witches and wooden masks. Some of Tyrol’s best carnival events only occur every 3 to 5 years. In 2026, the Nassereith celebration at the start of the month is particularly special.

If you want a quick getaway, consider a long weekend in Innsbruck. One of the best cities in Europe to visit in February for a ski holiday, thanks to its proximity to the mountains, there are also enough museums and cultural attractions to fill at least one day. From Innsbruck, you’re also well-placed for some intense snow-covered treks in Karwendel Nature Park.

Where to go in February in Europe for Valentine’s Day

With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday in 2026, it’s perfectly timed for a romantic weekend getaway – a city break on one of the weekends is surely better than a bunch of roses. You could pick from any of the more romanticised cities on the continent, such as Paris, Florence or Prague. Or, you could plan where to go in Europe in February for Valentine’s Day around one of these extraordinary annual events instead.

Côte d’Azur, France

Paris might be France’s most obvious choice for a Valentine’s Day getaway, but if you want to turn your romantic trip into a week-long vacation, then a luxury visit to the French Riviera might be the perfect answer.

Best known for glamour, film festivals, pretty pastel-hued homes and one of Europe’s smallest countries, Monaco, there is no shortage of first-class restaurants and romantic resorts to steal away along the shoreline. However, a few of France’s best events are scheduled in the south during February, and I’d highly recommend you make your visit to the Côte d’Azur even more special by planning it around one of these.

Perhaps the most famous is Nice Carnival (11th February to 1st March 2026), one of the world’s biggest, where this upscale seaside resort comes alive with parades. The illuminated nighttime procession is particularly fantastic with flower battles and general revelry. The ridiculously attractive town of Menton, closer to the Italian border, also holds a big annual bash, the Fête du Citron, starting on the 14th February 2026. This Lemon Festival is a flamboyant, almost fantastical affair where the colours and flavours of citrus fruits set the stage for parades, artisan stores, and local produce tastings. Lastly, there’s also the short but sweet Fête du Mimosa (11th – 15th February), anchored around the blossoming of the locally beloved Mimosa trees, over Valentine’s Day itself.

Venice, Italy

An obvious choice for a romantic city break, Venice is certainly one of the best places to visit for Valentine’s Day — but I’m thinking about the magic of one of the world’s greatest carnivals. Thankfully, in 2026, the Venice Carnival starts earlier than last year (31st January to 17th February), so you can combine it with your Valentine’s weekend away.

Dating back to the 12th century (although some reports believe it was informally established some 200 years before), Venice Carnival has long been one of the greatest festivals on the planet, packed with colour, glam, debauchery and secrets — often concealed behind those fabled Venetian masks, which also date back to the Middle Ages. Nowadays, it’s a mix of grand and opulent ticket-only balls, street performers, competitions and parades. So why not whisk your loved one away for a visit to Venice in February to celebrate in this city of romance?

If you’d prefer another nearby romantic alternative, then consider Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, where Valentine’s Day is also a huge celebration. With many romantic and memorable things to do in Italy, there is no shortage of February city breaks to choose from.

Sitges, Spain

Sitges is one of Europe’s most gay-friendly destinations, making it an excellent and safe place for the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate Valentine’s Day. One of the oldest carnivals in Catalonia, huge parades, costumes and crowds descend on this seaside town, breaking its winter hibernation in the most kaleidoscopic way. This year, events begin on the 12th February, followed by two major parades, and the main LGBTQ+ clubs and bars host their own parties throughout the week. 

Away from the celebrations (although it’s nearly impossible to avoid them), you’ve got a couple of fantastic museums, such as Cau Ferrat, sea-view restaurants, and a cute, if small, Old Town to visit. Of course, one of Sitges’ main draws is the beach, and while it isn’t one of the warmest places to visit in February in Europe, you might get lucky with some sunny days to top up your tan.

Best European cities to visit in February

When putting together my picks of the best cities in Europe in February, I’ve focused on destinations with annual events scheduled, a strong food and bar scene (for those colder nights), and enough museums and cultural attractions to keep you busy in case of some showers. If you want affordable food and drink and a better chance of blue skies, consider Valletta (Malta), Lisbon (Portugal), or Chania (Crete, Greece). However, opt for one of these three northern European cities if you don’t mind a chill.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius’s tagline as the 2025 EU Green Capital was “the greenest city in the making”. Come in February, though, and chances are high that you’ll see it sparkling under a light coat of white snow. With temperatures at the start of the month usually hovering around 0°c (32°F), you’ll want to pack your warmest winter clothes. The reward? An off-season, crowd-free and affordable visit to Lithuania’s capital, when plenty of cultural events feature on the city’s February calendar.

Lithuanian cuisine is among my favourites, with heartwarming Cepelinai potato dumplings, delicious mushroom soups (the nationally famous Pink Soup is cold, so not ideal for winter), and plenty of berry-infused teas to keep you warm. Head to one of the many cavernous underground restaurants to avoid the outside chill. For craft beer fans, Zmogsala Beerfest, on the 7th of February 2026, is worth planning around. The SU-MENĖK art festival spotlights the city’s creative scene throughout February. Come on the 16th of February, when Vilnius celebrates one of the nation’s Independence days, the State Restoration, and you’ll experience processions, a bonfire, and plenty more.

Brussels, Belgium

Highly underrated, Brussels is often expected to be a sterile, bureaucratic Belgian city when first visited, but in reality it’s anything but. The country’s capital has excellent cuisine on nearly every street corner with global gastronomy well represented; the nation’s penchant for first-class craft beers ensures that the bars are tempting even on cold winter nights; and the city’s collection of celebrated cultural institutions, galleries and museums can fill countless rainy days. Plus, who doesn’t love Belgian chocolate?

As an added bonus for visiting this European city in February, you’ll also be treated to the Bright Festival of Lights, which runs from the 12th to the 15th of February 2026. Installations by local and international artists bring vibrant illumination to some of the city’s most prominent landmarks, bringing the otherwise cold nights to life.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Chic Copenhagen is one of the best European city breaks in February, thanks to the Vinterjazz Festival (until February 28th 2026), which adds an extra dimension to this already cultured city. For a whole month (2026 is the 25th anniversary, so the programme is even longer than usual), multiple concerts can be appreciated in various venues, ranging from chilly open-air performances to impressive contemporary concert halls. There are only a few free events, so you’ll want to scan the schedule to book tickets in advance.

Alongside the jazz concerts, you can still cram plenty into a two-day weekend visit to Copenhagen. Some 50 excellent museums offer respite from showers, with a few, such as the standout SMK Art Museum, easily occupying half a day. If opulent halls and royal history are more your thing, then the city’s handful of palaces and castles are sure to impress. Iconic sights such as the colourful 17th-century Nyhavn Canal and the admittedly overrated Little Mermaid statues round off any visit.

Of course, another bonus of visiting after Christmas and before the popular summer season is that accommodation prices are usually lower. Other ways to cut costs in Denmark are to consider hostels (there are plenty of trendy, private-room options), take a Copenhagen free walking tour (don’t forget to tip), get the Copenhagen Card and take the Havnebussen instead of a canal tour.

Warm European destinations in February for winter sun

If you’re wondering where to go in Europe in February for sun, then my suggestions of the best warm European destinations in January — the Algarve, Malta and the Canary Islands — still apply. However, February brings a few more excellent choices, with huge carnivals under (hopefully) blue skies being the main reason I’ve chosen them. And given how even the warmest winter destinations in Europe can’t guarantee endless blue days, at least if you get unlucky with some worse-than-expected weather, you’ll have these unforgettable cultural experiences to cherish instead.

Andalucia (or Tenerife), Spain

Spain’s southern Andalucia region is one of mainland Europe’s warmest winter destinations, with February daytime temperatures in Seville often reaching 17°C (62°F). Still, the odd shower and chilly evenings are to be expected, but thankfully, by night, you can warm up with the region’s incredible area of carnival celebrations.

No matter where you decide to visit in this passionate region, you’ll likely find a party. Some of the most famous festivals are the huge and often humorous street party of the Cádiz Carnival (12th February – 22nd February 2026), the similarly grand Málaga Carnival (7th February – 15th February 2026), which dates back hundreds of years, and the Carnaval Colombino in the lesser-visited Huelva. It’s a great time to plan a road trip through Andalucia to soak up the region’s culture of tapas, flamenco, and Islamic architecture, as prices and crowds are lower along the coast, with stops at the parties along the way.

But if you want to be a part of the biggest February festivities in Spain, then you’ll need to head to Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, for the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Flamboyant in all ways, this fifteen-day event consumes the island’s capital, and it comes with an added bonus: the temperatures are even warmer down here due to being closer to the Sahara than Spain proper. This year, events start in January and end on the 1st March, 2026.

Madeira, Portugal

With an almost year-round spring climate, the autonomous Portuguese archipelago of Madeira is one of Europe’s warmest destinations in February. Daytime temperatures around 16°C (61°F) are fairly common, though with occasional showers and chilly evenings, an umbrella and jacket are still recommended. Whether your February aim is to try and catch some winter sun, swim in natural pools formed from lava, or hike some of Portugal’s most impressive mountain trails above the clouds, you’ll find it all here.

Just be warned, unlike many of Europe’s best beach destinations, the majority of the beaches on Madeira are pebbly or volcanic sands. If you want the more typical golden sands on your doorstep, then you’ll need to take the two-hour ferry to Porto Santo, Madeira’s little sister, where a golden beach stretches out as far as the eye can see. With little tourism on this secondary island in the offseason, the hotels that do remain open year-round often offer great value deals.

However, as with many other destinations listed, Madeira’s February highlight is the start of the island’s two-week-long carnival (11th February – 22nd February 2026). Expect plenty of flower-themed costumes and colourful dancers washed back with the local Madeira wine or poncha (a typical sugarcane rum drink) across the island. However, the most significant celebrations are held in Funchal, the island’s capital.

Cyprus

Technically located in Western Asia, the Mediterranean nation of Cyprus is nonetheless considered one of the warmest places to visit in Europe in February. With a mild winter climate — temperatures are often around 15°C (59°F) with a mix of sunny and cloudy days in February — it’s a fairly reliable bet for a bit of winter sun if not a full beach holiday.

Across this beautiful island, you’ll find some spectacular shorelines, beaches and bays. And not only are the island’s golden sands and turquoise waters pretty, if slightly chilly, but there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained if rain showers do appear. From the ancient archaeological attractions of Pahos — such as the 4th-century BC Tombs of the Kings — to the border-defining city of Nicosia’s museums, Cyprus’s best attractions are varied and fascinating.

February also has another compelling reason to visit Cyprus: the carnival. Commencing around the middle of the month, you’ll find celebrations in plenty of towns and villages. Two of the biggest are in Paphos, which culminates in a grand parade, and Limassol (12th – 26th February 2026), renowned for its eating, dancing, and all-round revelry.

More ‘offbeat’ places to go in February 2026 in Europe

Ending on my favourite topic of visiting Europe’s most underrated cities and towns, here are a few more of my personal recommendations of where to go in Europe in February that are often criminally overlooked.

The Ore Mountains, Germany

If you didn’t make it to Germany’s festive markets in December, fear not; Christmas in Saxony continues into early February. The huge markets in the likes of Dresden will be long gone, but head into the snow-carpeted Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge in German) in Saxony for a few days leading up to the 2nd of February, and you’ll still be able to shop for Christmas ornaments, sip on glühwein and enjoy traditional events. It’s on this date that the region celebrations Lichtmess, or Candlemass, and in the pretty towns of Olbernhau and Zwönitzer, at 6 pm sharp, the “Lights Out” festival sees all the lights – Christmas and others – turned off, only a sea of people clutching candles now illuminating the town.

This East German region loves traditions, and the town of Seiffen is practically Santa’s Workshop year-round. Nearly all boutiques focus on crafting stars, angels, decorations, candles, and traditional wooden toys throughout the year. It’s especially great in December when old mining traditions come alive, but come at the tail end of January and stick around until February 2nd’s Lights Out to have a Christmassy experience at a snippet of the price. In 2025, the city of Chemnitz and the Ore Mountains were one of two European Capitals of Culture, giving even more reasons to visit, which will undoubtedly spill over into early 2026.

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Like many of the most popular places to visit in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Sarajevo’s tourism is often discussed in conversations about war. And while the country’s capital certainly has stories of horror to convey, I believe it’s important we don’t just visit cities because of their past, but also to see and learn from their blossoming future — modern Sarajevo is both a fascinating mix of cultures, religions and traditions, but also a forward-looking city of trendy coffee houses, galleries and festivities.

What makes Sarajevo one of the best European cities to visit in February for an offbeat break is the Sarajevo Winter Festival (starting on the 7th of February 2026), which features a packed programme from early February through mid-March. One of the annual cultural highlights in Bosnia & Herzegovina, you’ll find art exhibitions, literary events, concerts, theatre, and opera performances both within the city’s cultural institutions and in the nearby Olympic Mountains — the festival was actually first launched as part of their preparations to host the winter games. For an insight into this country’s culture often skipped by travellers, this February event makes for an ideal time to visit. That said, I’m not a fan of 2026’s AI Art theme!

Outside of the programmed events, you’ve got one of the most engrossing cities in Europe to explore. Do take time to learn about the country’s recent and hard-to-process history at the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide, and of course, you’ll likely want to learn more about the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which triggered the start of World War I. But away from this haunted past, delve into the city’s medley of architecture — there are glorious mosques, and Islamic-style touches inside Vijećnica (Town Hall) — and explore the ever-growing cafe culture, take it all in from the Yellow Fortress high above, and get lost in the bazaar of Baščaršija. You can even hit the slopes for a fraction of France’s prices in the resorts beyond the city limits.

Durham, England 

If you’re wondering where to go in Europe in February without flying, consider planning a UK staycation and visiting Durham during the half-term holidays. Stacked with important historical sites, such as Durham Castle and Cathedral — both of which have major Harry Potter vibes — alongside a decent energy and selection of affordable restaurants thanks to the student-heavy population, it’s one of my favourite destinations in England.

But the top two reasons to visit Durham in February are for the annual Fire & Ice event (27th & 28th of February 2026), when the city is decorated with interactive displays, frozen statues, and dusk fires blazing for a couple of days. Secondly, the impressive open-air Beamish Museum hosts a dedicated February half-term programme for children, which showcases bygone eras in reconstructed towns and houses, featuring actors and real-life rattling trams.

If you’re up in Scotland and don’t fancy crossing the border, you might want to plan a visit to Aberdeen instead for the SPECTRA Festival of Light (5th to 8th February 2026), which illuminates the gorgeous cobbled streets and modern corners of this often unsung Scottish city.