Where to go on holiday in February
Molly Thompson
February is the shortest month but can sometimes feel the longest! Sunshine and warmth are in sight, but aren’t quite close enough. If you’re feeling a little flat, let these destinations put a spring in your step.
See our where to go, when guide for destination recommendations throughout the year.
Rome
February is a more pleasant, cooler month in countries like Italy, making it great for a city break. There are many cities from which to choose but Rome is a special city for a winter visit. If you’ve ever been to the Italian capital, you’ll know a defining characteristic of the city is the queues! Travelling at this time of year, popular attractions such as the Sistine chapel and Colosseum are still open but far less busy. February is also a lovely month to visit this romantic city because of Valentine’s Day. There’s also the famous Carnivale de Roma which takes place in February in Venice and Viareggio on the Tuscany coast.
Palazzo Manfredi
In a truly spectacular location in the very heart of Rome just moments away from the Colosseum, the Domus Aurea and the Roman Forum, the elegantly luxurious Palazzo Manfredi is ideal for exploring this historic city.
The Inn & View at the Spanish Steps
Located along Rome’s fashionable shopping street, Via dei Condotti, the Inn at the Spanish Steps offers a range of accommodation options, including contemporary style luxury apartments ideal for families or groups of friends.
Hotel Dei Mellini
Superbly located on the right bank of the River Tiber, Hotel dei Mellini enjoys easy access to the historic sights and attractions of Rome with the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza del Popolo all within a 15-20 minute walk.
Porto While Portugal’s mild winters might not be scorchingly hot, they are quieter. The prices offer great value in a destination already renowned for its affordability. Porto, Lisbon’s sister city, has undergone its own creative renewal. Medieval streets buzz with kerbside cafés and facelifted townhouses have been transformed into stylish hotels. The food scene is fabulous. Combine time on the coast with the terraced port vineyards of the Douro Valley, on a classy twin centre holiday.
Le Monumental Palace
Occupying a neoclassical style building dating back to 1923, the distinguished Maison Albar Hotels – Le Monumental Palace offers a refined 1930s inspired art deco interior and is within a short walk of the Bolhao Market, Livraria Lello bookstore and the Clerigos Tower.
PortoBay teatro
The theatrical themed PortoBay Teatro has been built on the site of the revered 1859 Teatro Baquet, once the haunt of the city’s artists and intellectuals.
Villa Foz Hotel & Spa
Surrounded by beautiful gardens and located on one of the finest avenues in Fozdo Douro, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa is a tastefully converted family residence overlooking the oceanfront.
The Caribbean In February, the Caribbean is widely considered to be one of the finest destinations to escape the dark cold months of a northern European winter. The peak season on the islands runs from mid-December to mid-April and should you wish to travel at this time it’s best to book early. Although these high season months feature the driest, warmest and sunniest days with low humidity and pleasantly cool evenings, travelling at this time does mean paying premium hotel rates and flight prices, and resorts and hotels can be crowded.
Case de Campo Resort & Villas, Dominican Republic
Set over an impressive 7,000 acres of well-manicured tropical grounds, exclusive Casa de Campo Resort & Villas is a vast complex home to award-winning golf courses, a yacht-filled marina, and a replica of the 16th century Mediterranean village Altos de Chavon.
Bequia Beach Hotel, St Vincent & The Grenadines
Bordering the sugary soft sands of gorgeous Friendship Beach on the little visited island of Bequia, family-run Bequia Beach Hotel blends understated luxury and elegance with authentic Caribbean charm.
Coral Reef Club, Barbados
Bordering a splendid white sandy beach on the west coast, guests at the highly commended Coral Reef Club have been enjoying the warmest of welcomes and exceptional service from the O’Hara family for more than 50 years.