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12 Best places to visit in February 2025 for every type of traveler
Discover the top 12 destinations for your perfect February getaway—from snowboarding in Sun Valley, Idaho to soaking in the winter sun in Cape Town, Africa, and more.
Whether you’re looking to escape the winter blues, plan a romantic Valentine’s getaway, or simply make the most of your vacation days, February is a great time to travel.
Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking, skiing, or even dog sledding, budget travelers can take advantage of off-peak accommodation, and party people have a variety of February festivals to choose from.
No matter your budget, weather preferences, or interests, this article will help you find the best places to visit in February. Discover the best places to visit along with insider tips on top activities and hangout spots.
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Best warm destinations to travel in February
Tired of gray winter skies and craving some summer sun? Ditch your thick coats and jet off to some of the best places to travel in February for a tropical escape.
1. Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
St. Thomas, off the East Coast of the United States, has plenty of options for travelers. With average winter temperatures at a pleasant 77°F (25°C), you can explore the city’s Danish-influenced architecture, indulge in lazy days at the beach, or even hike some offbeat trails.
Top activities
- Explore historic sites like Blackbeard’s Castle (where the pirate, Blackbeard is said to have lived), St. Thomas Synagogue (the oldest synagogue in the Americas), and Haagensen House (an 18th-century house that now hosts a museum about the Danish West Indies).
- Relax at local beaches like Magen’s Bay, Sapphire, or Coke Point Beach, or swim with sea lions and turtles at the Coral Ocean World Park.
- Take a ferry to St. John (a round trip costs $14 USD) and explore the Virgin Islands National Park. It’s also a great spot for whale watching.
- Head over to Frenchtown to both experience the Caribbean nightlife and shop for souvenirs. For more shopping options, visit Havensight Mall, and while there, you can also send home a postcard from the nearby Havensight Post Office.
Average travel cost
With February considered peak season in St. Thomas, you can expect to spend around $75-$100 per day, on average.
Language and cultural considerations
St. Thomas has a casual dress code. However, it’s advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and bathing suits are best reserved for beaches and pools. When it comes to tipping, a safe bet is 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants and $1-$2 per drink at bars.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s dry and sunny climate makes it one of the most popular places to travel in February. It’s perfect for beach lovers and those seeking an adrenaline rush with outdoor activities like surfing, rock climbing, ziplining, white water rafting, and scuba diving.
If you’re looking to indulge, grab a Costa Rica travel guide and search for its many wellness attractions. Body wraps with volcanic mud and tropical fruit, hydrotherapy, hot springs, and barefoot sandwalks are all great ways to experience Costa Rica’s famous pura vida (pure life) lifestyle.
Top activities
- Explore rainforests, active volcanoes, and cloud forests, such as those in Arenal Volcano National Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
- Go surfing in one of Costa Rica’s numerous beach towns like Nosara, Tamarindo, or Santa Teresa.
- Enjoy a soak at Ecotermales Fortuna’s magnesium-rich hotsprings—the perfect way to relax your muscles after adventure activities.
- If you’re a java enthusiast, then a tour of one of Costa Rica’s many coffee farms is a must-do.
Average travel cost
February is Costa Rica’s high season. This means your average cost per day can range between $120-$200, and if you’re indulging in expensive activities like deep sea fishing then costs can go up to $350.
Language and cultural considerations
Costa Rica, though casual in coastal areas, is predominantly conservative. This means modest clothing and minimal public displays of affection (PDAs). While most Costa Ricans (particularly in the major cities) speak English, knowing a few key phrases in Spanish will win you brownie points with the locals.
3. Cape Town, South Africa
Top activities
- Check out some of Cape Town’s iconic hiking trails like Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and Devil’s Peak.
- Explore the street art at Woodstock or visit the City Bowl area on the first Thursday of February, when most galleries stay open until 9:00 PM.
- Take the Franschhoek wine tram and go on a hop-on/hop-off wine-tasting tour across Cape Town’s popular vineyards.
- Visit food markets at Oranjezicht City, Mojo Market, or V&A Waterfront to sample local cuisine.
Average travel cost
Cape Town—even during its peak seasons—is quite affordable. Budget or mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $35 to $75 per day.
Language and cultural considerations
While South Africa has 11 official languages, English is widely spoken, making it accessible for international travelers. For safety, it’s advisable to avoid walking alone at night. Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings are quieter, so plan your activities accordingly. As for tipping, a standard 10% of the bill is customary in restaurants.
Best winter destinations to travel in February
Want to make an occasion out of the last snowfalls of winter before spring arrives? Or do you prefer escaping to a cozy mountain lodge to wait out the cold? We’ve curated three snow-packed destinations that you’ll love.
4. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City’s winter wonderland goes from early December to mid-March. So, if you’re missing the holiday cheer, this city is the perfect destination. Quebec City is also surrounded by mountain towns—such as Mont-Tremblant, Le Massif de Charlevoix, and Mont-Sainte-Anne to name a few—if you’re in the mood for some skiing or snowboarding.
If you’ve decided to go to Quebec this February, don’t forget your Canada travel guide.
Top activities
- Participate in the Annual Winter Carnival festivities, including snow sculptures, parades, ice castles, dog sledding, and various winter activities.
- Explore historical landmarks in Old Quebec like the Plains of Abraham (the site of the famous Battle of Québec) and Château Frontenac (the most photographed hotel in the world).
- Try skiing or snowboarding in one of the neighboring mountain ranges such as the Laurentian Mountains if you’re in the mood for some winter adventure.
- Go ice fishing on one of the frozen lakes such as Lac Beauport or Lac Saint-Charles.
Average travel cost
Quebec City is quite affordable for tourists with the average daily cost going from $60 for budget-conscious travelers to $200 for mid-range ones.
Language and cultural considerations
While both English and French are Canada’s official languages, Quebec City is predominantly French. This means dining etiquette in Quebec is slightly more formal than in other parts of Canada.
When it comes to tipping, Canada follows customs similar to those of the USA. A good baseline would be 15% to 20% of the bill (before tax).
5. Sun Valley, Idaho, USA
Sun Valley, located in the Wood River Valley, in south-central Idaho, USA is known for its great weather and world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities. While January might be the best time to visit, February (with an average snowfall of 40 inches) is also great.
Top activities
- Take a Gondola to the top of Bald Mountain and spend the day skiing or snowboarding down its slopes.
- Rent a snowmobile and explore Sun Valley’s winter wilderness on your own.
- Go to Knob Hill or Redfish Lake on dark nights to watch the stars and learn the constellations.
- Head to the Sun Valley Outdoor Ice Rink or Place D’Youville for some ice skating.
Average travel cost
Slightly expensive, the average for a trip to Sun Valley ranges between $80 to $350 per day.
Language and cultural considerations
Sun Valley (and the US in general) is pretty casual and friendly, so you don’t have to worry too much about the dress code. All indoor and many outdoor spaces prohibit smoking, so be mindful of these restrictions when traveling.
6. Courchevel, France
Planning an extravagant winter getaway? Courchevel, France is one of the best places to travel to in February. A luxurious ski resort in the French Alps, its diverse terrain, 600+ slopes, and reliable snow conditions, make it a popular winter destination. It’s also well-known for its fine dining experiences, boasting the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the Alps.
Top activities
- Get adventurous with outdoor activities like snowboarding, airboarding, hang gliding, and more.
- Rent a pack of huskies and explore the region on a dog sled instead of a snowmobile.
- Dine at an igloo restaurant, or even better, book a guide and build your own igloo.
- Go to the Courchevel Valley to learn Nordic or cross-country skiing—a great option for beginners.
Average travel cost
A trip to Courchevel in February can be quite expensive with the per day cost ranging from $500 to $1,000. Higher still, if you opt for gourmet dining or exclusive activities.
Language and cultural considerations
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases can help you interact better with locals. Courchevel is also pretty sophisticated, so make sure to dress elegantly when visiting upscale restaurants or nightclubs.
Best places to visit for holiday festivities in February
Still wondering where to go in February? It’s the Month of the Carnival, and over 50 countries celebrate it. Carnival is an explosion of color, confetti, and costumes to celebrate both history and life. So, if you’re still unsure where to go, why not plan your next vacation around one of these vibrant celebrations?
Here are three of the most popular places to visit in February, where the streets come alive with swirling dancers, dazzling costumes, and the contagious joy of carnival celebrations.
7. Venice, Italy
While Venice is always a preferred destination for travelers, the Carnival adds an extra layer of magic to the city. The origins of the Venetian Carnival can be traced back to the Middle Ages.
It typically lasts for about two weeks in February and is filled with parades, masked balls, and other festive events.
Top activities
- Join in the festivities by participating in parades, mask-making workshops, and other carnival events.
- Take a gondola ride through the canals, and visit historical landmarks in the city center like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge.
- Enjoy the street artist performances at local restaurants, theaters, and cafes.
Average travel cost
The higher demand during Carnival can increase the average daily cost to around $320 to $500 for food, travel, and accommodation. Most Carnival activities, however, are free and open to the public.
Language and cultural considerations
While Venice has a relaxed atmosphere, be sure to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Also, watch out for fines for things like sitting on pavements, pushing a bicycle, or feeding birds.
8. Barranquilla, Colombia
Second only to the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, the Barranquilla Carnival in Colombia is one of the world’s largest, with around 5.3 million people attending in 2024! If you grab a Colombia travel guide, you’ll likely find this vibrant celebration highly recommended.
It takes place between February 18 and February 21 every year and involves plenty of champeta music, dancing, elaborate costumes, and parades—perfect for a group vacation.
Top activities
- Attend the four official parades, each showcasing vibrant costumes and dance performances across different genres.
- Join one of the informal street parties that happen all over Barranquilla for some dancing, music, and foam spraying.
- Join a workshop and learn some of the dance styles like cumbia or champeta.
Average travel cost
On average, you can expect to spend about $110 to $200 per day during the carnival.
Language and cultural considerations
With dance being a vital expression of Colombian culture and the carnival, consider learning some basic dance moves. And don’t forget to pack some stellar, over-the-top outfits so you fit in on the dance floor — which you’ll find around every corner.
Tipping, though not mandatory, is appreciated. Some upscale restaurants might even ask if you want to leave a tip (or, propina) and 10% of the cost of your meal should do.
9. New Orleans, USA
A February vacation to New Orleans includes major attractions like months-long Mardi Gras celebrations, romantic cruises along the Mississippi River, and the February Arts Month celebrations. There’s something for everyone!
Top activities
- Attend one of the many Mardi Gras parades and catch beads and trinkets thrown from the floats.
- Wander through the historic streets of the French Quarter and visit iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and Bourbon Street.
- Participate in First Saturdays, where local galleries in the Arts District open their doors for free exhibitions and receptions.
Average travel cost
You can expect to spend around $500 daily if you plan to experience Mardi Gras fully — think parade tickets, renting floats, VIP party passes, and workshops.
Language and cultural considerations
There are pretty much no restrictions when it comes to Mardi Gras costumes. Local laws prohibit glass containers for safety. When it comes to parade etiquette, avoid grabbing beads from the ground or street.
Best budget-friendly destinations for a February vacation
Want to take an exotic yet affordable international trip? There are countless such places that make budget travel safe and fun. The trick is going during shoulder or low season. Everything’s cheaper and you get the sunny skies without the summer crowds.
Here are three of the best places to go in February that are (mostly) off-season during the winter.
10. Crete, Greece
Crete’s rich history, beautiful beaches, and quaint villages make it a tourist hotspot. And February’s mild weather, with just the right balance of sunshine and cloud cover, is perfect for exploring its ancient ruins and archaeological sites. So, grab your Greece tourist guide and add Crete to your February itinerary – it’s a destination that won’t disappoint!
Top activities
- Visit historical sites like the Palace of Knossos and the Venetian harbor of Chania.
- Tour the Cretan Olive Oil Farm and taste 30+ homemade products.
- Explore the ancient Minoan ruins in the Lasithi Plateau.
- Go cliff-jumping at Saint Spyridon, also called Seitan Limania (Satan’s Harbor), because of its dangerously strong currents and rocky terrain!
Average travel cost
The average daily cost for a trip to Crete can be around $80. Budget travelers can take it down to $45 by choosing the right accommodation and food spots.
Language and cultural considerations
In Greece, certain hand gestures, like holding up your hand with fingers spread wide and the palm facing another person (moutza) are highly offensive. Greeks are very polite and it’s a common practice to greet people when entering or exiting a place.
11. Mexico City, Mexico
Affordable accommodation and food, lovely weather, and plenty of free activities make Mexico City, a budget traveler’s ideal destination. Plus, compared to peak tourist seasons, February has fewer crowds.
Top activities
- Visit the various historical sites like the ancient pyramids of the Sun and Moon in Teotihuacan and Templo Mayor, the temple which was once the center of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan.
- Take a boat ride through the canals of Xochimilco, and while there, visit the eerie Island of Dolls—where countless dolls hang from the trees.
- Shop for antiques at La Lagunilla, a popular open-air market, or check out the artisanal market in La Ciudadela for souvenirs.
Average travel cost
Mexico is a relatively affordable place to visit in February with the daily cost for budget travelers being around $60.
Language and cultural considerations
Mexicans are pretty appreciative of tourists speaking Spanish as it’s easier for them to understand. It’s also common to start the day with a late breakfast and have lunch around 2:00 PM.
And while hosts generally serve alcohol during meals, especially dinner, it’s perfectly alright to decline if you’d prefer not to drink.
12. Koh Samui, Thailand
If you’re looking for a peaceful beach vacation — and sun, sea, and sand are your only requirements — then it can’t get better than Thailand’s Koh Samui island.
Top activities
- Explore the jungles, waterfalls, and caves of Ang Thong National Marine Park (a protected archipelago of 42 islands).
- Skip Chaweng Beach, and go to Lamai — it’s less crowded and great for both sunbathing and watersports.
- If you’re there on a Friday evening, go to Fisherman’s Village Walking Street, a night market filled with handmade clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and street food at super low prices.
- Visit the iconic temples of Wat Phra Yai, Wat Plai Laem, and Wat Khunaram — the last one houses the mummified remains of a monk who is believed to have achieved a state of deep meditation.
Average travel cost
One of the most affordable destinations on this list, you can enjoy a comfortable stay — boutique hotel, fine dining, and more — for as little as $30 per day.
Language and cultural considerations
While English isn’t widely spoken in Thailand, locals in tourist areas like Koh Samui are pretty good at it. Also, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and egg are staple ingredients in Thai cuisine. If you’re looking for vegetarian food, then try restaurants serving kin jay Buddhist cuisine.
When it comes to tipping, the standard is 10-15% of your bill.
Stay connected on your February trip with Holafly
When planning where to travel in February, don’t forget that reliable internet access is a must. You’ll need data for everything — researching local attractions, planning your routes, talking to family overseas, and posting travel vlogs on Instagram.
Here’s where Holafly’s embedded SIM card (eSIM) comes in as your go-to travel companion. With Holafly, you get unlimited data, a mobile hotspot daily allowance of up to 1 GB per day (in certain destinations), and no roaming charges for international calls made via apps like WhatsApp. Holafly is available in over 200 destinations around the world, and plans start as low as $5.90 per day.
Purchase your eSIM from the Holafly website before your trip and simply scan the QR code to activate your eSIM when you reach your destination. You can use the Holafly app (available on both Android and iOS) to manage your eSIM plans.
Ready to escape the February blues? Get planning for one of the destinations on this list and we’ll see you there! Happy travels!
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Originally from Michigan USA and currently based in Sarajevo Bosnia and Herzegovina, Armin Tanovic has five years of experience writing content and copy for both US and European marketing agencies. He’s written for travel brands like TravelPerk, and loves an adventure in the great outdoors. You can catch him off the beaten path exploring mountains and coastlines while drawing his writing inspiration from the scenery.
