17 Warmest Places In Europe In February To Visit

Looking for the warmest places in Europe in February to escape the cold? This article will show you all the must-visit destinations for winter sun in Europe.

Christmas may be long gone, but the European winter is not over in February.

Thankfully, while the majority of Europe continues to require thick jackets this month, there are also plenty of European warmer destinations where you can enjoy balmy weather and some pleasant winter sun.

Limassol is one of the warmest places in Europe in December

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To help you escape the winter cold, I’ve compiled a list of 17 warm European destinations in February where you can get your much-needed sunshine fix after days of bleak cold.

From vibrant beach towns in Spain to stunning, spring-like islands in Portugal, here are some of the warmest places to visit in Europe in February!

Warmest Places In Europe In February

In no particular order, here are the warmest places in Europe in February that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Valletta, Malta

Malta ranks at the top of the list when it comes to warm places to go in Europe in February.

The climate here is Mediterranean all year round which promises mild winters with temperatures in February hovering just under 16 °C (60.8 °F).

Not sure where to go in Malta? The capital city, Valletta, is the perfect spot for a warm winter getaway.

Despite being one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with tons of fun things to do.

In fact, the city feels like a huge open-air museum thanks to the fortifications surrounding its perimeters, its wide streets, quaint old-town buildings, museums, Baroque architecture, and a great selection of interesting European landmarks with historical significance.

2. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one of the warmest places in Europe in December

The major and popular cities in Italy tend to still be freezing cold in February, but you can always escape to the islands down south for some warmer weather.

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean sea, Sicily is gorgeous and only moderately cold even in the winter months, with bearable temperatures averaging just above 10 °C (50 °F) in February.

Be sure to not miss out on the Sciacca Carnival that happens every February if you’re traveling to Sicily during this time of the year!

Expect exciting masquerade parades that will make you dance, festive orchestras, and street carts generously distributing drinks, grilled sausages, cannoli, and lots of wine.

Though it won’t be possible to swim, you’ll be able to get lost in its historical sites like the Valley of the Temples, and its stunning architecture, take in the view of Mount Etna and discover the beauty in its quaint cities like Palermo, Agrigento, Erice, and many more.

3. Cagliari, Italy

Cagliari is one of the warm places in Europe in February.

Nestled on the south coast of Sardinia (the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, after Sicily), Cagliari is the island’s historic capital filled with fascinating museums, ancient buildings, long stretches of sandy beaches, and narrow alleys filled with sights waiting to be explored.

While it may be a bit cold to head to the beach in February (you can expect temperatures with a high of 15 °C (59 °F) during this time of the year), there’s much more to do here than spending time by the ocean.

Also, if you love partying, you’ll be delighted to know that Cagliari has a pretty epic nightlife despite being a small city!

From hidden bars that serve inventive cocktails to trendy ones booming with live music, there are plenty of spots for you to wind down or have fun after the sun goes down.

4. Naples, Italy

Naples is one of the warmest places in Europe in February.

Despite being the third-largest city in Italy, Naples is often overshadowed by other more popular cities in Italy such as Rome, Venice, and Milan.

The seaside city is lovely to travel all year round, even in February when you can expect fewer crowds and things are also much cheaper than other more touristy cities.

Did you know that Naples is the birthplace of pizza and is widely known to have some of the best pizzerias in the whole of Italy? After a long day of sightseeing, be sure to treat yourself to a humble and authentic Neapolitan pizza!

You can get a large one for only about 4 euros at a typical pizzeria. For a memorable meal, make your way to Gorizia, a legendary pizzeria that has survived both world wars. Order the 1916 pizza for a delicious taste of flavors that have been passed down through generations.

Besides Pizzas, other places not to miss include the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace and Museum, Castel Nuovo, Palazzo Reale, and many more.

As for the weather, it might not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of warm places in Europe in February but with an average temperature of 13 °C (55.4 °F) and warm sunshine, you’ll not be freezing like in other parts of Europe.

5. Nice, France

Nice is one of the best cities to visit in France in winter. — *Nice old town*

Most cities in France remain cold in February, except for charming cities that line the French Riviera.

One of my favorite warm places in February in Europe is none other than Nice, a picturesque coastal city that provides a breath of fresh air and some precious sunshine from the winter cold.

Temperatures here usually hover around the 13 °C (55.4 °F) mark, and while it’s still a bit too chilly to spend time in the ocean, it’s warm enough for nice strolls along the Promenade des Anglais, sightseeing, or museum-hopping, and indulging in some delicious cuisine.

While you’re here in February, you’ll also get to be a part of Carnaval de Nice, Nice’s iconic, world-famous carnival that runs for 2 weeks in February!

Expect lively streets full of parades, floats, performances, and pop-up stores. This is truly one of the best winter festivals in Europe.

6. Malaga, Spain

Malaga is one of the warm cities in Europe in February.

The hottest European country in February is none other than Spain, and stunning Malaga is a true gem during the cold months.

Known for its golden sand beaches, and lively culture, Malaga is meant for those who love sunshine, food, and an overall laid-back vibe.

Winter temperatures are balmy even in January and February, (hovering around 18 °C (64.4 °F) but can go as high as 20 °C (68 °F) ) and you can either spend days at the beach, exploring fascinating historical sites or museum-hopping

The Picasso Museum is a must-see if you love art, after all, Malaga is the birthplace of world-renowned artist Pablo Picasso.

You can also go shopping or even window shopping on Larios Street. As for foodies, stuff yourself merry with tapas, fried sardines, and delicious Spanish sausage at cozy local bars, eateries, and beach BBQs.

7. Mijas, Spain

Mijas is one of the warm places to go in Europe in February.

Have more days to spare and want to explore beyond Malaga? Plenty of cute beach towns in Southern Spain such as Marbella, Mijas, and Gibraltar are just a train (or bus) ride away.

Of all of them, I have a soft spot for Mijas, a charming coastal town located just a 30-minute drive from Malaga.

Known for its Andalusian white village beauty, Mijas will sweep you off your feet with its picturesque whitewashed houses, cobblestoned streets, and lovely hiking trails.

If you’re traveling to Mijas in February, you can expect breezy weather that hovers around 20 °C (68 °F) during the day and chilly evenings. It’s the perfect season to go hiking and sightseeing.

Also, you’ll get to avoid the spring and summer crowds during this time of the year!

8. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are some of one of the warm European destinations in February.

Affectionately known as the Canaries, the Canary Islands are a cluster of rugged, sun-baked volcanic islands located off the African coast.

Coined as the destination that receives the most sunlight in Europe since it gets approximately 300 days of sunshine per year, the Canary Islands offer a warm February with their beautiful landscapes, relaxing resort towns, white sand beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

Each of the seven islands in the region has its charm, and you can decide which one is perfect for you depending on what you enjoy doing!

Paraglide and hike your way up one of the most impressive volcanoes in Europe at Tenerife ( which is also the largest island among the seven), explore Lanzarote’s sweeping vineyards with a wine glass in hand, slide down giant sand dunes much like the ones in the Sahara at Gran Canaria, or go on a stargazing adventure at La Palma.

9. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the warmest places in Europe in December

Barcelona may not be the warmest place in February in Europe, but the gentle winter sun can be felt on most days, which is why I rank it high on my list of warm cities in Europe in February.

If you prefer city explorations over spending hours by the beach, Barcelona may be your cup of tea as it has the best of both worlds.

Spend your days marveling at architectural wonders, (be sure not to miss out on masterpieces such as the Casa Batllo, La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and the Cathedral of Barcelona) and roaming through world-class museums, and nights indulging in tapas, seafood paella, and Spanish wine at lively restaurants and bars! There won’t be a moment of boredom in Barcelona, regardless of the weather.

You should however note that the weather in Barcelona in February can be a bit unpredictable, so be sure to pack some sweaters or lightweight jackets in case it gets cold on some days.

10. The Algarve, Portugal

Algarve is one of the best European cities to visit in December

Spain and Italy have their lovely collection of beach cities, but Portugal has its share too.

In fact, Portugal ranks high on my list of favorite warmest places in Europe in February.

My first representative from Portugal is the Algarve, a luring destination with plenty of beauty from craggy cliffs, expansive sea views, endless stretches of beaches, and ancient Moorish architecture, to delicious seafood.

With over 200 kilometers (124 miles) of stunning coastline and nearly 30 resort towns (this doesn’t even include its quaint fishing villages), the Algarve is fun for all types of travelers.

You can pick a bustling resort town if you enjoy a vibrant vibe and nightlife, or one of the smaller ones if you’d like to steer away from the crowds for a bit.

For a less touristy and more authentic experience, I recommend basing yourself at one of the towns along the east or west of the Algarve.

Oh, don’t miss out on the annual week-long Loulé Carnival if you’re traveling here at the end of February!

With temperatures oscillating between 16 °C and 17 °C (61 °F and 63 °F), the Algarve is one of the warmest places in Europe in February.

11. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira is one of the warm European destinations in February.

Frequently crowned the best island destination in the world, The Madeira Islands in Portugal consist of an archipelago of volcanic islands nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

The islands are blessed with a spring-like climate almost throughout the year, and the temperature rarely falls below 10 °C (50 °F) even on the coldest of winter days.

In February, you can expect balmy days with plenty of winter sun and pleasantly chilly evenings.

Madeira is the perfect vacation spot if you’re a beach lover! From gorgeous cliffs to natural lava pools, there’s plenty of fun here, whether you like swimming, mountain biking, surfing, or paragliding.

If you visit in February, you’ll also get to catch the Madeira Carnival, an annual celebration that’s known as one of the best festivals in Europe!

Expect vibrant street parades, musical performances, cultural activities, and an explosion of fun everywhere.

12. Azores Islands, Portugal

The Azores Islands are some of the warmest places in Europe in February.

Often compared to Madeira, the Azores Islands are just as beautiful though with quite different landscapes and vibes.

If you prefer white sand beaches and summery vibes, you’ll love Madeira, but if you’re up for getting off-the-beaten path and have a soft spot for nature, Azores is bound to be your cup of tea.

The Azores are known for their dreamy, mountainous scenery, natural wonders, hot springs (perfect for days when it’s cold), and hiking trails.

The islands are filled with spots that are largely under the radar, making it a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers who like to go where few have stepped foot on.

Do note though that the weather here is generally more unpredictable than in Madeira, so make sure to pack for a bit of cold and rain if you’re planning to venture into the great outdoors a lot.

And the best part is that you’ll probably get to catch sight of the first dots of spring blooms when you travel to the Azores in February!

13. Kos, Greece

Kos is one of the warm places in February in Europe.

Famed for its golden sand beaches, clear waters, and vibrant vibe, Kos is an island located in the east of Greece.

While most people flock to Kos in the summer months, traveling earlier in the year promises lesser crowds and relatively mild winters.

You can stroll along the island’s palm-lined harbor, catch a glimpse of the ruins of the Ancient Agora, or grab a coffee at one of the cute beachfront cafes! There’s plenty to do in Kos whether you’re in search of adventure or relaxation.

My best suggestion for people traveling to Kos is to rent a car and embark on a self-drive road trip from one end of the island to the other!

The island has great roads and is very easy to drive around! You’ll only need an hour to drive its whole length and you can plan plenty of beautiful pit stops along the way depending on what you’d like to see.

14. Crete, Greece

Crete is one of the warm cities in Europe in February. — *street in Chania*

Also home to glorious beaches, plenty of unique sights, and charming towns, Crete is the largest island in Greece.

Boasting over a thousand kilometers of coastline, Crete offers a variety of things to do for various travelers.

From the picturesque Chania to the charming and less touristy Rethymnon, the laid-back beach town of Sfakia, and the beautiful traditional village of Margarites, you can decide where to stay depending on what you’d like to see, your preferred vibe, and your budget.

From there, you can plan day trips between these different towns and villages since they all have different fun activities and sights to offer.

Plus, you can travel between Santorini and Crete in just 2 hours via a fast ferry that departs daily from ports on both ends!

15. Cyprus

*Cyprus is one of the warm European countries in February.*

With a subtropical Mediterranean climate, Cyprus also ranks high on this list of hot countries in Europe in February.

There are snowy winters up in the mountains, but the lowlands generally have average daytime temperatures that hover around 20 °C (68 °F).

You might want to keep your eyes on the weather forecast though, as you’ll have a 50/50 chance of encountering a rainy day which usually lasts just for a couple of hours.

If you’d like to go to the beach, cities on the south coast such as Limassol, Ayia Napa, and Larnaca promise shallower and warmer waters, and you’ll likely not need any warm clothes if you’re basing yourself here.

The weather is warm enough to spend hours sunbathing, swimming, and heading out to the sea on a yacht!

16. Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monte Carlo is one of the warmest places in Europe in February.

Bordered by France and also very close to Italy, Monaco is widely recognized as a “Billionaires’ Playground”.

If you’re ready to splurge a little on glamorous events, fine restaurants, extravagant luxury yachts, designer stores, and casinos, then you’ll have an unforgettable February in Monaco.

It may not be the warmest place in Europe in February, but temperatures are generally very comfortable and typically hover just under 15 °C (59 °F).

Most people make their way to Monte Carlo, Monaco’s glitzy district built on a steep slope.

You can catch a bus from Nice in less than an hour, making it a nice day trip if you’re not keen on splurging on overnight accommodation.

17. Sibenik, Croatia

Sibenik is one of the warmest European cities in February.

The last location on this list of warm European countries in February is charming Croatia.

Are you a fan of Game of Thrones but don’t want to rub shoulders with crowds in other touristy Croatian cities? Make your way to laid-back Sibenik, a stunning coastal city that served as a double for the show’s city of Braavos, which made its appearance in Season 5.

The most popular filming location here is the beautiful St. James Cathedral which was the backdrop of the Iron Bank of Braavos!

The weather in Sibenik isn’t sweltering in February but is nice and breezy as opposed to the majority of temperatures in Europe in February.

Pack along a good jacket for the colder mornings and evenings, and you should be good to go!

It’s also good to note that most of the popular sights in Sibenik are concentrated in the historic old town area which is extremely walkable and pleasant to explore.

Final Thoughts on the Warmest European Destinations in February

Gotten enough inspiration on the warmest places in Europe in February?

While the general temperature in Europe can still be brutal this time of the year, Europe is a huge continent, and countries like Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, and some parts of Italy and France are still blessed with mild winters and lovely sunshine.

Also, its shoulder season in most of these locations in February which means lesser crowds and much cheaper travel costs!

So, which warm destination do you have your eyes on for February? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

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