Are you planning a trip to Europe in February and are looking for some fun winter destination inspiration? Well, I’m more than happy to help out with that.
While many think the peak summer season of June to August is the best time to embark on a Euro trip, I’d argue that winter in Europe is where it’s at — namely, February.
It may be below-freezing in some parts of the continent, but things are heating up in others. Whether your scene is partying the night away at the carnival, hitting the snow of the Alps, or lazing under the Mediterranean Sun, a visit in February has something for everyone in Europe.
I’ve put together this mega guide to 13 incredible cities to visit in Europe in February. It’s jam-packed with winter getaway guides that may inspire you to discover a destination you never considered before.
1) Barcelona, Spain
Let’s face it. Barcelona is a vibrant, fun, surprising, and exciting destination year-round and has something for every style of traveler.
In summer, the Spain average high temperature is 96.8°F (36°C) which can be very hot for some people. While still on the chilly side, Barcelona is a bit warmer than the intensely low temperatures in other parts of Europe in February – thanks to its Mediterranean location. So, you can expect a winter sun with average temperatures of 59°F (15°C).
The city is one of the best places to visit in February because there are tons of things to do to keep you busy. Spend your days enjoying the artwork of Antoni Gaudi with fewer crowds, or go bar hopping and tapas in the Gothic District. Of course, you can’t forget to revel in the Barcelona nightlife (which always happens no matter the time of the year).
WHAT’S ON IN BARCELONA IN FEBRUARY:
- Barcelona Carnival – Held in the week leading up to Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent, Barcelona Carnival is a quintessential loud and proud Spanish celebration across this remarkable city. TimeOut calls Barcelona Carnival a week of “costume parties, traditions and general debauchery.” Kicking off on the famous central Barcelona strip of Las Ramblas, a week at Barcelona Carnival is a non-stop party.
- Sitges Carnival An offshoot of Barcelona’s massive carnival, Sitges Carnival is held in the coastal town just 35 km south of Barcelona. The week-long carnival is a wild time held concurrently with Barcelona Carnival! This carnival is widely considered one of the best festivals in the world. It is an explosion of music, parades, dancing, and constant partying for its 250,000 attendees. I’ve personally attended this carnival, and it’s absolutely incredible and well worth the day trip from Barcelona when it happens.
WHERE TO STAY IN BARCELONA IN FEBRUARY
- The W Hotel Barcelona – There’s no more iconic accommodation in Barcelona than The W Hotel. Located right at the end of the beach, it’s a famous landmark in the city, and the rates are far more affordable in February with fewer tourists.
- Claris Hotel & Spa GL – Located just off Barcelona’s prestigious Passeig de Gràcia Boulevard, this luxury hotel offers city views from its rooftop pool. It also has a unique art collection.
- Sant Jordi Hostels: If you’re a backpacker on a budget, or a friendly solo traveler looking to save on your stay, this is the place for you. Barcelona offers many low-cost accommodations. And my personal favorite is the highly-rated Sant Jordi Hostel chain. The Rock Palace location boasts a rooftop pool, while the Sagrada Familia location is perfect for skaters as it has a half-pipe inside the hostel (how cool is that?). The Grácia location is ideally located in a quieter Bohemian area of the city with an endless list of cool bars and restaurants.
2) Venice, Italy
The famous Italian “floating city” of Venice is a summer hotspot. But Venice is one of the best cities to visit in February. Why? Because this time marks the city’s most celebrated annual event – Carnival (or “Carnevale” in Italian).
Traditional Venetian masks are on full display around Venice, and the energy is fun-filled and excitable. The temperatures in the north of Italy may be considerably cooler than its southern counterparts during February. Still, the vibe down the canal side laneways and in the sprawling public squares of Venice is palpable.
Venice Carnival – One of the world’s most famous annual festivals, Venice Carnival (“Carnevale”), runs for a fortnight each February and marks the onset of the Christian holiday Lent. The carnival is a colorful tradition with participants wearing beautiful Venetian masks around the streets.
There are lots of events held throughout “Venezia” for Carnevale, including elaborate masked balls. It’s a great family-friendly event the kids will love, but solo travelers and couples will find something special too.
WHERE TO STAY IN VENICE
There are tons of incredible places to stay around Venice, and it just depends on where you want to be. Personally, I recommend a hotel near the train station or within a few minutes walk from the iconic Piazza San Marco.
- Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel – This cozy yet chic luxury hotel in Venice is truly vacation-worthy. With a perfect location, excellent service, and glowing reviews, you won’t forget your vacation in Venice if you stay here!
- Hotel Il Moro di Venezia – Located just footsteps away from Venice Santa Lucia Station, this well-priced hotel will be a great home base for your stay in the city! The delicious complimentary breakfast plus the comfortable and clean rooms make this a pleasant stay.
3) Cologne, Germany
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in February, Europe’s northern city of Cologne (“Köln”) is a good place to start. It is a stunning, historical German destination on the Rhine River, famed for its cathedral and charming Old Town.
The fourth largest German city is usually home to around one million permanent city residents and is known for its “college town” aesthetic. But in February each year, an influx of Germans from other cities and international visitors mean that for one week, the charming, historical city limits swell to maximum capacity to party away the “crazy days of Carnival.”
Cologne Carnival: Carnival season continues across Europe in February, with Cologne Carnival kicking off a week of annual festivities. These include massive street parties, parades, and a suspension of closing times for bars and pubs across the city for the duration of the event.
The festival has technically been running in Cologne since the Middle Ages, but the massive event of today has been celebrated for around 200 years. Be prepared for a crazy, action-packed event with a German beer-laden week of celebrations across the entire city wrapping up on Ash Wednesday.
WHERE TO STAY IN COLOGNE IN FEBRUARY
Here are a few ideas for your Cologne accommodation needs. No matter where you stay in the city, though, I’m sure you’ll love your stay as it is one of Germany’s coolest cities!
- Hyatt Regency Köln – Offering great views of the Cologne Cathedral and gourmet cuisine, this stylish business hotel is located in central Cologne directly beside the River Rhine.
- Maritim Hotel Köln – Centrally located in Cologne, this hotel provides excellent panoramic views of the River Rhine. The Maritim Köln offers elegant accommodation and a spa with a gym and indoor pool.
4) Helsinki, Finland + Arctic Circle Adventures
February in the Finnish capital of Helsinki rarely climbs above freezing, and snow commonly falls most days. If you’re a snow bunny, you’ll love this magical winter wonderland, and if you’re a winter sports fan – even better!
While Helsinki in February doesn’t have any major events, per se, it made my list because it’s a fantastic winter destination and renowned for its majestic, frozen landscape. It’s also the best place to catch a flight up to Kittilä. You can read about the trip I took there in my Flashpacking Finland post.
Here are a few more recommendations to get you started on where to travel in February if you visit Finland.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN HELSINKI IN FEBRUARY
- Shop at Market Square and Old Market Hall – These traditional Finnish markets in Helsinki sell local foods and handcrafted products. Market Square is an outdoor market located by the Harbor. Don’t worry. They have a warm cafe tent! Old Market Hall offers the same experience, but inside and directly next door to Market Square.
- Have a Sauna, Obviously – Saunas are a dime a dozen in Northern Europe, and Finland is no exception. Many public saunas in Helsinki have sadly closed down, but a few of the original – and the best – remain. Head to Löyly Sauna for a traditional Finnish sauna experience, with a spot to jump into the freezing Baltic Sea between sauna sessions like the locals do.
- Visit a Finnish Island and UNESCO World Heritage Site: Suomenlinna Island is one of Finland’s seven UNESCO heritage sites and is a great day trip to escape the city for a bit. After all, it’s just over ten minutes by ferry. This island is historically significant, dating back to the 1700s, and has seen a range of wars and battles, with many historical remnants remaining. And if the cold proves too much, it also has a brewery to enjoy a pint or three.
WHERE TO STAY IN HELSINKI IN FEBRUARY
- Lapland Hotels Bulevardi – With extremely luxurious rooms at affordable prices, you simply can’t beat the Lapland Hotels Bulevardi. It is in the city center, has amazing dining, and top-notch service, so you’ll truly love your winter getaway in Helsinki by staying here!
- Marski by Scandic – Scandic’s first signature hotel in Finland and offers accommodation just 300 metres from Helsinki Central Station, the Market Square and the Esplanadi shopping district.
5) Crete, Greece
The vast island of Crete is just 160 km (99 miles) south of the mainland of Greece and is a fantastic escape from the hubbub of Athens. It also has significantly fewer visitors (even in the off-season) than the quintessential Greek islands of Mykonos or Santorini.
It’s not so much that Crete has any major events during February to plan your trip around, but more about the fact that Crete is one of the warmest parts of Europe in the depths of winter. While many parts of Europe are freezing through sub-zero temperatures, Crete offers sunny, mild weather even during their off-season.
If escaping the cold is at the top of your February to-do list, Crete is where it’s at. And filling your time should be easy, as this huge expanse of the island covers over 8,000 square kilometers and has thousands of kilometers of gorgeous coastline. Here are a few things to keep you busy.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN CRETE IN FEBRUARY:
- Swim at One of Crete’s Many Beaches – Crete has over 500 beaches, and even in February, you’ll see locals and visitors splash around and enjoy the winter sun. A massive plus is that you can do this too, minus the throngs of tourists blocking the view. The sea is also much calmer in winter compared to summer, with less intense winds, which makes February ideal for surfing in Crete.
- Take Advantage of Winter Specials – In winter, prices across Crete are half the price as the same thing would cost in the booming summer months. This means you can have a luxury stay with cheap flights there and back and enjoy an endless array of dirt-cheap activities. Add to that a few queues, shorter waits in restaurants and cafes, and an overall feeling of more space.
- Go Chasing Waterfalls – The landscape of Crete is primarily hot and dry, but in February, the winter rainfall of the previous months has replenished creeks, gorges, and rivers. This means the island’s waterfalls are flowing gloriously once again. Visiting Crete in February means you’ll have a chance to see what the peak visitors don’t get to – the lush natural wonders of this ancient island. This time of year brings global canyoning fans to Crete, so give that a go while you’re at it.
WHERE TO STAY IN CRETE
- Domus Renier Boutique Hotel – Historic Hotels Worldwide – Offering views of the old port and the lighthouse, Domus Renier Boutique Hotel – Historic Hotels Worldwide is situated in Chania Town, in the heart of the old Venetian Harbour, 100 metres from Maritime Museum Of Chania.
- Chic Apartment with Views of Koules Fortress – Situated in a prime location , right opposite Venetian Fortress and the old city Harbor , the apartment offers luxurious accommodation and a breathtaking view from its private balcony.
6) St Moritz, Switzerland
Switzerland’s snowfields are a playground for the rich and famous in the winter months. That is why St. Moritz is one of Europe’s most esteemed winter destinations. It’s also one of the best European resort towns to visit in February, as it’s the peak season for snow bunnies.
Don’t think the fun ends at hitting the slopes for a taste of the best powder in Europe. A visit in February means a jam-packed calendar to make your Swiss Alps trip unforgettable.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN ST MORITZ IN FEBRUARY
- White Turf & Night Turf – “White Turf, a unique, exclusive, top-class event with exciting horse racing, gourmet catering, lively music, and inspiring art exhibitions, all taking place in winter sunshine on the frozen lake among the stunningly beautiful, snow-capped mountains of St Moritz.
- Club Dracula – Its name may be daunting, but this well-known members-only nightclub is the place to be seen in St Moritz – if you can wrangle a pass, of course!
- Treat Yourself to a Swiss Spending Spree – St Moritz is all about money, money, money. So it comes as no surprise that it’s full to the brim with luxury shops. Head to Via Serlas for a Rodeo Drive style retail therapy experience in St Moritz. Jimmy, Gucci, and Louis are waiting!
Getting there: You can easily reach St Moritz from a range of European cities, but the closest major airport is Zurich Airport in Switzerland.
From here, you can drive or take the train to St Moritz. The renowned Glacier Express (Chur [Switzerland] to St Moritz and Bernina Express (Tirano [Italy] to St Moritz) heritage railway services take you through the mountains with unparalleled Alps views.
WHERE TO STAY IN ST MORITZ IN FEBRUARY:
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz – If you’ve got the budget, staying at the world-class Kulm Hotel will easily be the highlight of your February Europe getaway! With world-class views, spa treatments, and dining, you’ll fall head over heels in love with St. Moritz.
7) Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland has exploded in popularity and is now a bonafide part of the European backpacking trail, despite being off the traditional beaten track.
The capital city, Reykjavik, has so much to offer the tourism industry. It’s no wonder 2 million international visitors now head there for volcanoes, lagoons, and a true sense of rest and relaxation. February is no exception despite having the coolest annual temperatures, with the Iceland average high temperature reaching just 3°C (37.4°F).
But be warned – Iceland is significantly more expensive than mainland European countries. Thankfully, a bit cheaper during a visit in February, but start saving your Icelandic króna’s now. It’s also a fantastic jumping-off point for exploring the rest of this unbelievable country. Iceland winter road trip, anyone?
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN REYKJAVIK:
- Experience the Northern Lights – November to February is the peak season to see the elusive Northern Lights of northern Europe, and Reykjavik is the ideal base to experience this popular travel bucket list item. A range of tours depart from Reykjavik, but I recommend Happy Tours. They run nighttime tours to the best vantage points most nights of the week during winter. What sets them apart is that you sail on a traditional fishing vessel away from the city to see the northern lights at their best and clearest. This tour company also has a “sighting guarantee,” which means you can join their tour again any other night for free to try again.
- Winter Lights Festival – This annual Reykjavik festival marks midwinter each February with a generous splash of much-needed color and light installations across the city. The best part is that all events have free entry, so visiting this fantastic city’s a great time.
- The Blue Lagoon – “Healing waters. A subterranean spa. Gourmet cuisine. Luxurious suites. Otherworldly vistas. A universe of radiant wellbeing.” A trip to Iceland would be incomplete without experiencing the magical Blue Lagoon! It’s one of the country’s most iconic tourist destinations and has the perfect geothermal pools to dip into during the winter.
WHERE TO STAY IN REYKJAVIK
- Canopy By Hilton – This hotel offers the ultimate Reykjavik city experience. The Canopy by Hilton is modern, with clean rooms and stylish fittings. Located around the corner from the famous Laugavegur shopping street, you couldn’t get a better base for exploring the city and its attractions.
- Hotel Reykjavík Centrum – Set on one of Reykjavik’s oldest streets, Adalstraeti, 200 metres from Reykjavik Art Museum. It offers a unique Viking exhibition centre, plus beautifully decorated rooms offering comfort and satisfaction. All feature modern décor, fresh bathrooms and wooden floors.
8) Prague, Czech Republic
In my opinion, whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or autumn – I’ll visit Prague anytime in an absolute heartbeat.
The capital of the Czech Republic, there’s a reason Prague is often the favorite world city of any seasoned traveler you ask. It’s magical in the snow, breathtaking in summer, and it has so much to see and do on any given day. I guarantee you’ll walk away from Prague with memories you’ll cherish forever.
Get lost in the fairytale charm, dine like royalty, and soak up all Prague has to offer! Read my 2-Day Prague Itinerary for all of my top recommendations.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN PRAGUE IN FEBRUARY
- Experience World-Class Czech Beer at the Source – Escape the nighttime winter chill and join a beer tour of Prague that will take you to some of Prague’s most legendary pubs. You’ll also get to taste some of the Czech Republic’s best brews — all capped off with a traditional Czech dinner.
- Tour Prague’s Centuries-old Jewish Quarter – Josefov, Prague’s Jewish Quarter, has withstood the worst of humanity and still stands firm in the center of the city. A walking tour is the best way to really begin to understand the history of Prague’s Jewish population and the foundations of Josefov. With your tour guide, you’ll visit beautifully preserved synagogues and Jewish cemeteries — unmissable and sobering.
- Cruise Prague’s Vltava River – The wind chill may be intense, but a winter cruise up Prague’s Vltava will take you past some of the city’s most beautiful architecture, including Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, and teach you so much about this epic city at the same time.
WHERE TO STAY IN PRAGUE IN FEBRUARY
- Hotel Aurus – This is my absolute favorite hotel in Prague! It’s in a fantastic location, affordably priced, and has everything you need for a comfortable stay in this magical city!
- The Emblem Prague Hotel – If you’re not travelling to Prague on a super tight budget, then this is where you NEED to stay! It’s an absolutely stunning luxury hotel, but it’s still affordable by luxury standards. Located right in the center of Prague, you’ll be steps away from the city’s main attractions. The rooms are spectacular, the food is divine, and the views are stunning.
9) Bruges, Belgium
The medieval Belgian city of Bruges is nicknamed “The Venice of the North”. It’s clear to see why, with its canals, cobblestone laneways, and ornate architecture.
February in Bruges doesn’t see extreme average temperature dips, but it’s still pretty cold. However, that doesn’t mean that Bruges slows down even for a second or that the iconic Belgian beer stops flowing.
Wandering the canals and admiring the architecture in Bruges will truly mesmerize you and will keep you coming back for more every winter.
Be sure to Climb the Belfry, as its most famous medieval landmark. If you can climb all 270 feet of this tower, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the city and beyond!
WHERE TO STAY IN BRUGES IN FEBRUARY
- Hotel Dukes’ Palace Brugge – This 5 star superior hotel is located in a unique 15th-century former ducal palace in Bruges and only 280 metres from the Markt. Dukes’ Palace Brugge includes classically elegant décor and luxurious 5-star facilities.
- Hotel Ter Brughe – Located along a scenic canal and only an 8-minute walk away from the Market Square, the Belfry of Bruges and the shopping district.
10) York, England
The ancient city of York is one of England’s most beautiful, historically significant, and charming cities. It is famed for the enormous Gothic cathedral, York Minster, and its cobblestone streets (including the historical “Shambles”).
By February, York is just emerging from its coldest month of the year, January. Average temperatures around this time are highs of 7°C (44.6°F) and lows of 1°C (33.8°F). But don’t let that stop you. There is still lots to do here.
York may have frosty cold weather and regularly snowy in February, but that only contributes to its magical lore!
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN YORK IN FEBRUARY
- Jorvik Viking Festival – York is the home of the largest Viking festival in Europe, believe it or not, and it’s well worth timing your visit to ensure you get to experience the action for yourself. For a week each February, York’s hotels are fully booked as visitors head to the city for this Norse celebration. Expect lots of staged Viking skirmishes and combats, workshops, and markets dotting the cobblestone streets of York.
- The Original Ghost Walk of York – Rug up against the freezing February night and join York’s longest-running nighttime ghost tour. Hear haunting ghost stories from the best storytellers in the business, traveling on foot to all of the places the scary tales took place. Haunting, hair raising and a hell of a good time.
Getting there: Manchester has the nearest major airport to York, but the United Kingdom is best explored from the ground, especially the sheer beauty of Yorkshire. You can reach York from London in just over three hours. There are lots of train and bus services between the two cities daily. The major northern city of Leeds is also only 45 minutes from York.
WHERE TO STAY IN YORK
- Guy Fawkes Inn, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western – Standing next to York Minster, Guy Fawkes Inn was the birthplace of the notorious plotter, Guido Fawkes. Each of the thirteen rooms have been decorated individually, feature antique feature, and many of the rooms also enjoy a landmark view.
- Stroll to Historic City Centre From Refurbished Flat – Start a new day in style in the double-head rain shower, refreshing with Pecksniff’s toiletries. This central apartment offers plenty more luxury touches, including a subway-tiled kitchen with marbled countertops, plus designer pendant lighting.
11) Chamonix, France
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (or simply “Chamonix”) is a popular ski resort at the base of the famous Mont Blanc – the tallest peak of the Alps region.
Mont Blanc is a big draw for tourists all year due to its breathtaking views. However, in February, the snow attracts serious Alpine sports fans and is considered the best spot to ski in the Alps. With France average high temperature of just 5°C (41°F), a visit here is a must for snow bunnies.
Chamonix is located at the junction of Italy, Switzerland, and France, offering amazing accessibility on your trip to other major destinations. If breathtaking mountain views and ski slopes sound like a good idea, don’t miss out on Chamonix!
Getting there: Most tourists visiting Chamonix fly into Switzerland’s Geneva Airport, which offers daily connections direct to Chamonix. Lyon Airport in France also offers a high-speed train to Chamonix.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN CHAMONIX IN FEBRUARY:
- Hit the Slopes – Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley offers a full range of slopes, altitudes and orientations. Seasoned skiers will enjoy a unique experience in stunning surroundings.
- Take a Husky Ride – Dogsledding is a tradition in Chamonix and very popular. So be sure to book your place well ahead of time on a husky ride across the white snow of this majestic Alps location.
- Experience Aiguille du Midi – The #1 recommended activity in Chamonix and Mont Blanc is climbing to the peaks of this mountain in the Mont Blanc region in a cable car. You’ll reach a height of 3,842m, so be prepared to be a little breathless with the altitude. But the sweeping views of the French Alps make all the huffing and puffing so worth it.Of course, hiking these heights isn’t for everyone. If that is too challenging for you, don’t worry. There are also a few cable cars available.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHAMONIX
- Alpina Eclectic Hotel – Offering views of Mont Blanc, this 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Chamonix, 950 metres from the Aiguille du Midi cable car and a 5-minute walk from the train station
- Luxury One-Bedroom Apartment With Jacuzzi – Studio Grace is a new luxury 1 bedroom apartment in the heart of the Chamonix Valley. Beautifully appointed and decorated throughout with a stunning private original Northern Lights cedar hot tub on the decking and fabulous views of Mt Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi.
12) Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a tourist magnet year-round. The island has mild temperatures, even in February. Being one of the warmest parts of Europe, even in the depths of winter, is just one reason Tenerife has made my list of the best European locations to visit in February.
On top of that, the Canary Islands are also beautiful. The beaches are stunning, the water turquoise, and the vibe relaxed as hell. Plus, it has one of the world’s biggest carnivals kicking off in February. You’re closer to the West Coast of Africa when you visit Tenerife, so sit back, sip a cocktail, and enjoy escaping the February chill for a little while.
The main reason to visit in February is to experience the Carnaval de Santa Cruz. A massive part of the European carnival scene, Carnaval de Santa Cruz, is Tenerife’s biggest annual celebration and is celebrated at the beginning of Lent. In fact, it’s right behind Brazil’s world-famous Carnival on the list of the world’s biggest.
Parades, parties, music, and huge celebrations are held across this beautiful island, and recent years have seen more than half a million attendees spill onto the island for the fortnight-long party.
WHERE TO STAY IN TENERIFE
- Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – This stylish, urban hotel with a spa is located in a colonial-style building. Feauturing hardwood floors and a modern décor.
- Ocean & volcano views, terrace, wifi, concierge, in Villa – If you are looking for spectacular sunsets in the ocean, stunning views of coast and Atlantic in an elegant home in a hillside villa, you have found your place: the “Modern” apartment in one of AD Alberto Dorner villas.
13) Innsbruck, Austria
The beautiful Alps city of Innsbruck has always been beloved by European travelers, especially during winter. The Winter Olympics have even been hosted in Innsbruck twice thanks to its epic alpine sports stage.
A more modern Austrian destination than its larger counterparts, Salzburg and Vienna, Innsbruck still has so much of the charm (and perfection) you should be accustomed to if you’ve ever been to this pristine country. February in Innsbruck is a busy time for tourism and one of the best months of the year to hit this chic city.
Getting there: You can fly into Innsbruck Airport with a series of European airlines. Alternatively, the Eurail system makes accessing the Austrian city from various locations easy. Salzburg is less than 2 hours away, Munich is less than 3 hours away, and Zurich is 3.5 hours away. The Austrian capital of Vienna is 4 hours by train.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN INNSBRUCK IN FEBRUARY
- Go Skiing in Innsbruck – That’s the name of the game in the Innsbruck region in winter. The slopes on the Stubai Innsbruck are sure to impress people of all ability levels. Thanks to the live cams in the ski resorts, you can always keep an eye on weather conditions.
- Kristallwelten – (“Crystals World”) is a massive exhibition and art experience from brand giant Swarovski. By using the brand’s famed crystals, the space has beautiful art installations, films, huge gardens, and visual experiences everywhere you look. There’s also a handy shuttle directly from Innsbruck to Wattens, where the exhibit is housed.
- Alpine Zoo Innsbruck – Open daily, Innsbruck’s Alpine Zoo has achieved the title of the highest-elevated zoo in Europe. But it is also the sanctuary for over 2,000 animals and plays an important role in animal conservation. They are doing a fantastic job with a conservation job aimed at saving a (currently unknown) mouse species. Stick around for when the church bells chime in the hour in Innsbruck. You’ll also hear a choir of the wolves of the Alpine Zoo join in, howling along with it.
WHERE TO STAY IN INNSBRUCK
Hotel Mondschein – Located right on the Inn River, the traditional Hotel Mondschein is just across the bridge from the Old Town of Innsbruck. Some of the comfortable rooms at Hotel Mondschein offer beautiful city views and a nature inspired starry sky. Decorated in blue marble and Swarovski crystals, the elegant bathrooms feature a hairdryer and a make-up mirror.
AM I MISSING ANY BEST PLACES TO GO IN FEBRUARY IN EUROPE?
Now, I probably could have extended this list to 30+ different best places to go in Europe in February because I absolutely love visiting Europe during winter! If you think there are any specific cities, festivals, or events that I need to add to my list, please do let me know! I’d love to hear where you enjoy traveling!
ESSENTIAL EUROPEAN WINTER TRAVEL TIPS:
- Pack accordingly for the weather! February in Europe is an icy, bone-chilling cold you can’t escape. So excellent quality winter clothes equipped to withstand snow and ice (and a TON of thermals)are just the beginning of what you should be packing. Thankfully, European stores are equipped with clothing and footwear designed for their own plunging temperatures. So if you forget anything, you can guarantee you’ll find what you’re looking for in any major city!
- Purchasing adequate travel insurance in advance of your trip goes without saying. But, if you are taking part in winter sports, add the mandatory extras. Trust me, breaking your leg on a mountain without insurance is not only stupid, but it will set you back hundreds of thousands of dollars – at least. Even catching a winter cold could require medical treatment if you get particularly sick. Travel insurance to cover you in Europe is totally affordable and a MUST. No excuses.
- It’s pretty obvious, but be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially during big events. Huge annual carnivals like those across Europe in February are prime time for pickpockets and thieves to get busy. Channel your inner dad and wear a money belt with your belongings safely tucked away — you won’t regret it.
- Most of all, enjoy visiting some of Europe’s best city’s at this magical time of year!
LOOKING FOR SOME MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION?
Are you still searching for where to visit in February? My travel blog is filled with helpful articles and itineraries that I’m sure you’ll love! Take a look through a few of my favorites below, and let me know what you think! Also, feel free to reach out to me with any questions!
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- The Ultimate SYDNEY Itinerary | How to Spend 4-7 Days Exploring Sydney, Australia
- The 40 Best Festival Quotes to Inspire Your Next Adventure
THANKS FOR READING ABOUT THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN EUROPE IN FEBRUARY!
SHARE THE EUROPEAN WINTER LOVE WITH YOUR TRAVEL SQUAD!
These are great suggestions.
Great list to explore Europe in Feb. I took a tour of Europe through this article. Prague and Barcelona is always in my bucket list. I think you missed Amsterdam.
Well in February there are numerous of things which you can plan although visiting all over is not easy as it can be but if you wish to visit and explore places then you can easily visit with the help of travel agency as they help you in booking tickets and arranging all things which you want from them.
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In any case, it’s extremely supportive and you’re the best for imparting it to us. Keep this work ongoing.
Appreciating the time and effort you put into your website and in depth information you offer. Awesome places to explore. I would like to suggest it to my friends so that we can plan a trip and take a time for ourselves in this busy schedule. Keep posting such wonderful places. Thanks!
This list is inspiring me to book a trip to Europe in February! Thanks for sharing all these ideas. Hallstatt Austria is another place I’ve been eyeing for winter travel
Such lovely places especially Iceland! I know all of them are worth visiting not just in February :) I would recommend Asturias, Spain, too if you’re into greenery scenes. Overall, this is very helpful. Thanks for sharing this :)
THanks for this! Using this guide to visit Europe in February next year!
thankyou for providing this useful information