Where to Travel in February:
The Best Sun, City & Ski Escapes
February is one of those months that can feel a bit stuck in between. Winter is dragging on, spring still feels far away and that’s usually when the travel itch really kicks in. The good news is that February is actually a great time to get away, if you know where to look.
If you’re wondering where to travel in February, the options are better than you might think. This is the month for winter sun without extreme heat, city breaks without heavy crowds, and ski resorts at their snowy peak. It’s also a quieter, more relaxed time to travel, which makes it perfect for slower trips and more meaningful experiences.
In this guide, I’ve put together 10 destinations that truly work in February. You’ll find warm escapes, atmospheric cities, and reliable ski resorts, all chosen for good weather, great vibes, and realistic travel conditions. Whether you want sunshine, culture, or snow, this list will help you decide where to travel in February.
Where to travel in February: Hot destinations
February is a perfect month for chasing warmth without dealing with extreme heat or peak-season crowds. These hot destinations are ideal if you’re craving sunshine, relaxed days, and a break from winter without overcomplicating travel.
1. Gran Canaria
Why visit:
Gran Canaria is one of those winter sun destinations that’s easy, reliable, and still interesting. You get warm temperatures, long beaches, and a surprising amount of variety for one island. February is ideal here, with sunny days that are warm but not overwhelming. The south is perfect for switching off, while the centre and north offer mountains, local towns, and a more traditional feel. It’s great if you want a relaxed beach break but still like the idea of exploring without rushing.
Temperature in February:
Around 21–23°C during the day, with lots of sunshine.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 4.5 hours.
Little tip:
Stay in the south for the best weather, but plan a day trip inland to see the mountains and quieter villages. It adds balance to a beach-focused trip.
2. Cape verde
Why visit:
Cape Verde is ideal if you want proper winter sun without the crowds. February is one of the best months to visit, with warm days, cooling breezes and a very relaxed pace. The islands feel calm and unspoilt, perfect for switching off and slowing down. You can spend your days on long sandy beaches, take coastal walks, and enjoy simple, local food without feeling rushed. It’s a great choice if you want sunshine with a quieter, more laid-back vibe than Europe.
Temperature in February:
Around 24–26°C during the day, with low humidity.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 6 hours.
Little tip:
Choose Sal or Boa Vista for beach-focused trips, and look for smaller hotels if you want a more peaceful, local feel.
3. Marrakech
Why visit:
Marrakech is a great February destination if you want warmth, culture, and a complete change of scenery without a long flight. The weather is comfortable rather than hot, which makes exploring much more enjoyable. You can wander the souks, visit gardens and palaces, and sit outside for long lunches without feeling overheated. It’s busy enough to feel exciting, but calmer than spring, which gives the city a more relaxed rhythm.
Temperature in February:
Around 18–22°C during the day, with cooler evenings.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 3.5 hours.
Little tip:
Stay in a riad inside the medina for atmosphere, but plan quiet breaks during the day to avoid sensory overload.
4. Dubai
Why visit:
Dubai really comes into its own in February. The weather is warm but comfortable, which makes it ideal for mixing sightseeing with slow, relaxed days. You can spend mornings by the pool or beach, afternoons exploring neighbourhoods and markets, and evenings dining outside. It’s a good option if you want winter sun with excellent hotels, great food, and a very easy travel experience, especially if you’re short on time but want a proper reset.
Temperature in February:
Around 23–26°C during the day, with low humidity.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 7 hours.
Little tip:
Balance your trip by mixing beach time with older areas like Al Fahidi or a desert excursion, it makes the experience feel more rounded.
5. Phuket
Why visit:
Phuket is a brilliant February choice if you’re looking for proper heat, blue skies and a slower, tropical pace. This is dry season, so days are sunny and predictable, perfect for beach time and boat trips. What makes Phuket work so well is the balance. You can stay somewhere calm and relaxed, then dip into lively areas or cultural spots when you feel like it. It’s ideal if you want warmth, good food, and the option to do very little without getting bored.
Temperature in February:
Around 28–32°C during the day, with warm evenings.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 12 hours, usually with one stop.
Little tip:
Base yourself slightly outside the busiest areas for a quieter stay, and plan an early-morning island trip for calmer seas and fewer crowds.
Where to travel in February: Ski Resorts
February is peak ski season, which means reliable snow, well-groomed slopes and lively mountain villages. These ski resorts are ideal if you want proper winter scenery, great conditions, and a classic cold-weather escape done right.
6. St Moritz
Why visit:
St. Moritz is one of those places that feels special the moment you arrive. February is peak winter here, with excellent snow, blue skies and a crisp Alpine atmosphere. The resort combines beautiful scenery with a calm, elegant pace that never feels rushed. It’s ideal if you want skiing during the day and long lunches, walks, or relaxed evenings afterwards. Even if you ski lightly, the setting alone makes it worth the trip.
Temperature in February:
Around −5 to 3°C during the day, often sunny but cold.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 2 hours flight to Zurich, then just over 3 hours by train.
Little tip:
Take time to enjoy lunch on a sunny terrace and try traditional Swiss dishes like rösti or fondue, St. Moritz does slow winter dining very well.
7. Courchevel
Why visit:
Courchevel is a great February choice if you want excellent skiing with a polished, well-organised feel. It sits within Les Trois Vallées, the largest ski area in the world, so variety is guaranteed. February brings reliable snow and a lively but well-balanced atmosphere across its different villages. Whether you’re a confident skier or travelling with mixed abilities, it’s easy to tailor your days without feeling overwhelmed.
Temperature in February:
Around −6 to 2°C during the day, depending on altitude.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 1.5 hours flight to Geneva, then 2.5–3 hours by transfer.
Little tip:
Try a proper Savoyard dinner like tartiflette or raclette one evening, it’s filling, comforting, and perfect after a cold day on the slopes.
8. Val Thorens
Why visit:
Val Thorens is a solid choice for February if snow reliability is high on your list. As Europe’s highest ski resort, it usually has excellent conditions at this time of year, with a real winter feel from morning to night. The resort is purpose-built, which makes everything easy, from ski-in ski-out access to modern lifts. It’s ideal if you want to focus on skiing during the day and keep evenings relaxed and uncomplicated.
Temperature in February:
Around −8 to 1°C during the day, often cold but clear.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 1.5 hours flight to Geneva, then about 3 hours by transfer.
Little tip:
Book lunch in advance at a mountain restaurant and try classic Alpine dishes like tartiflette or diots, they’re perfect fuel for cold, high-altitude days.
Where to travel in February: City Breaks
February is a great month for city breaks if you choose places where the weather is comfortable and the pace feels calmer. These cities are ideal for walking, eating well, and exploring culture without peak-season crowds.
9. Lisbon
Why visit:
Lisbon is a lovely February city break if you want culture without the crowds. The weather is mild, the light is beautiful, and the city feels calmer than in spring or summer. It’s perfect for slow days spent walking through historic neighbourhoods, riding trams, and stopping often for coffee and pastries. February lets you enjoy Lisbon at an unhurried pace, which suits the city’s relaxed rhythm very well.
Temperature in February:
Around 15–18°C during the day, with cooler evenings.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 2.5 to 3 hours by direct flight.
Little tip:
Wear comfortable shoes for the hills and plan café stops along the way. A pastel de nata with coffee is almost mandatory between walks.
10. Buenos Aires
Why visit:
Buenos Aires is a great February destination if you want culture, food and atmosphere without rushing. It’s summer in Argentina, but the city feels lively rather than overwhelming, with long evenings and a strong café and dining culture. February is calmer than January, so neighbourhoods feel more local and relaxed. You can spend your days walking leafy streets, visiting museums, and enjoying slow meals that stretch late into the night.
Temperature in February:
Around 24–30°C during the day, warm but manageable.
Travel time from the UK:
Around 13–14 hours by direct flight.
Little tip:
Explore different neighbourhoods like Palermo and San Telmo on foot, and plan dinners late. Buenos Aires really comes alive in the evening, especially around food and wine.
