February is often seen as a quiet month - that strange period when a new year is underway and everyone is still getting over the festivities and intense spending of Christmas. For many, the last thing we’re thinking about is jetting off on holiday. But what if we told you that actually, that’s a very good idea? February can be a fantastic month for travel to destinations all around the world. How do we know this? Well, here at Plum Guide, we’re the travel experts - this is our bread and butter. When it comes to top tips on where to travel and when to go, you can count on us. So, let’s get around to answering that all important question: where is the best place to travel to in February?
1. The Cotswolds, UK
Sheep grazing on a small hill in front of a church in the Cotswolds, England, UK
Covering large swathes of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, there’s nothing more cosy than frosty February morning walks and rambles in the Cotswolds. Stay in the many quaint villages dotted among the rolling hills, enjoying cosy pubs with roaring fires or a surprisingly large array of Michelin star restaurants.
Over The Threshold, Plum Guide home in the Cotswolds, UK
2. Vietnam
A small temple in the middle of a lake surrounded by mountains, Vietnam
The best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season when temperatures are milder and rain is minimal - February is therefore perfect. Although there may be slightly more crowds than at other times of the year, the weather is at its best, and the size of the country means you could spend weeks on end exploring. It’s well worth considering. If you’re lucky, the Vietnamese New Year celebration of Tet may also be taking place.
3. Summit County, USA
An icy blue lake in front of a pine forest and snowy mountains, Summit County, USA
Visiting Summit County in February is a great idea, as it’s prime ski season. Earlier on through December and January, the snow conditions can be a little marginal, limiting how many runs and terrain is open. By February, it’s almost guaranteed that any rocks, stumps, and fallen trees are now buried under several thick layers of snow. Grab your skis (or board) and head to Breckenridge ski resort for the best ski holiday possible.
The Pinewood Playground, Plum Guide home in Summit County, USA
4. Palawan, Philippines
An aerial view of a blue lagoon and tall grey cliffs, Palawan, Philippines
With so many different islands, it can be hard to pick just one in the Philippines, but if we had to narrow it down, we would have to highly recommend the province of Palawan. Here, you’ll find world-class diving opportunities, including several WWII wrecks, as well as iconic crystal clear blue waters with shimmering green limestone islets dotted amongst the reef. With the weather in February, it’s paradise.
5. Tyrol, Austria
A clear lake in front of tall snow-capped mountains in Tyrol, Austria
We don’t know a month that’s better for European skiing than February. With several months of prolonged, heavy snowfall already laid, you can expect to rip up the very best slopes that the Alps have to offer. Tyrol is the perfect destination - home to many iconic resorts and towns including Soelden, Kitzbuhel, and Ischgl. Altogether, there are over 80 ski areas with 3,000km of piste. Yes please.
Snowfall Snug, Plum Guide home in Tyrol, Austria
6. Oruro, Bolivia
A purple train at a station on a sunny day in Oruro, Bolivia
Speaking of carnivals, how about Oruro, in Bolivia? Steeped in rich history dating back to the 18th century, this underrated February trip will see you experience the ten-day Carnaval de Oruro - where parades of devils and dancers (up to 28,000 of them, with an accompanying 10,000 musicians) make their way up and down the high street of the city. They do this for 20 hours, without interruption. Fear not, you won’t be expected to join in.
7. Joshua Tree, USA
A large rock formation reflecting in the small lake beside it, Joshua Tree, USA
February is an excellent time of year to visit Joshua Tree. With the daily average temperatures sitting at 19°C, you won’t suffer under the intense heat of summer. Being the last month of winter, you can also expect to see some amazing wildflowers beginning to bloom. With hiking trails, campsites, and mountain bikes for hire, there is plenty here to keep any nature lover busy.
House of the Rising Sun, Plum Guide home in Joshua Tree, USA
8. Tasmania, Australia
A close up of two rocks in Dove Lake in front of tall mountains, Tasmania, Australia
On the topic of walks and rambles, Tasmania is an excellent place to stretch the legs. With Australia baking in late summer sun, February is a fantastic time to visit this beautiful island, 240km south of the Australian mainland. Set out on world-class treks and hikes through the many national parks, taking in the breathtaking coast, mountains, and rainforests in between. Alternatively, sample some of the finest Australian wine, and visit the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart.
9. Venice, Italy
An aerial view of the Grand Canal between terraced buildings in Venice, Italy
Usually, we like to recommend destinations in the shoulder season that are devoid of tourists. That’s not the case with Venice in February, though. In February, it’s carnival time. If you can handle the masses, expect a vibrant display of iconic, elaborate masks (a fantastic souvenir), with wild, colourful parades thronging the many streets and canals of this historic city. This is Venice at its very best - a memorable event that will live with you forever.
A Venetian Affair, Plum Guide home in Venice, Italy
10. Singapore
A view of lit buildings in a city reflecting in the water beside it in Singapore
Situated so close to the equator, Singapore is renowned for its intense heat and relentless humidity. However, February offers a little respite from this, making it the ideal time to go. We can highly recommend a visit to the incredible Gardens by the Bay, the streets of Kampong Glam (an old, colourful enclave dating back to the 1800s), as well as sampling the many wondrous hawker centres - huge halls full of some of the most delicious street food in all of Asia.
11. New Orleans, USA
A red tram and a dark green tram next to palm trees and apartments in New Orleans, USA
All around the world at any time of year, you’ll be hard pressed to find a town that’s as up for partying as New Orleans. In February, things somehow get even crazier, with the infamous Mardi Gras festival. Expect a wild carnival spirit, daily parades, and plenty more wonderful events. They'll somehow light up and colour the streets of this famous city even more so than before.
Downtown Oasis, Plum Guide home in New Orleans, USA
12. Banff, Canada
A large mountains with a cloud covering its peak in Banff, Canada
Speaking of winter sports, you should also cast your eye over Banff, Canada. While it’s definitely one of the coldest times of the year to be visiting Canada, it is also prime time for winter sports in the Canadian Rockies. Check out huge frozen waterfalls, glide across the snow on a dogsled, and ice skate on Lake Louise, in front of the iconic Fairmont Chateau. This is an underrated gem when it comes to looking at where to travel in February.
13. Barbados
Palm trees on the white sand looking out to sea at Bottom Bay Beach, Barbados
Winter sports and freezing temperatures not your style? Worry not. The best time to visit Barbados is February, right in the middle of the dry season. You'll experience less rainfall, and temperatures average around 30°C - perfect for the beach and a few cocktails, we think you’ll agree. On the west coast you have some of the most serene, beautiful beaches in the world, with blue waters and soft sand. Meanwhile, over on the east, you’ll find a dramatic, rugged Atlantic coast battered by eye-catching waves.
Lemons By The Sea, Plum Guide home in Barbados
14. Montevideo, Uruguay
A low-angle view of a large church and a statue in a town square in Montevideo, Uruguay
The capital and largest city of Uruguay, visiting Montevideo is always a good idea. However, in February there’s the added bonus of experiencing the longest carnival season in the world (running from January to March). You’ll find the warmest weather of the year accompanying music, singing, and dancing, all spilling out onto the streets in large parades. There’s also street stages known as ‘tablados’, and an artistic contest in the ‘Teatro de Verano’ (Summer Theatre).
15. Ibiza, Spain
Aerial view of boats in the bright blue sea next to a beach in Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is famous all around the world for its wild nightlife and party scene throughout the European summer - but have you ever wondered what it’s like in February? Experience a different side to the island during the Mediterranean winter, with a quieter, more laid back atmosphere. You can live like a true local and make the most of cheap food and drink deals, which are designed to tide bars and restaurants over through the quiet season. It’s lovely.
Opal Pink, Plum Guide home in Ibiza, Spain
16. Patagonia, Chile
A view of the inside of sculpted caves in General Carrera Lake in Chile, Patagonia
If you’re an outdoor lover looking at where to travel in February, Patagonia has to be high on the list. This is the summer period where the weather is mild and settled, allowing you to enjoy the full splendour of some of the most incredible scenery on earth - even if you opt for an underground adventure. Whether you’re trekking, climbing mountains at high altitude, rock climbing, cycling, road tripping, or kayaking, this is a destination that has it all, on the grandest of scales.
17. Amsterdam, Netherlands
A field of pink tulips by numerous brown windmills in Amsterdam, Netherlands
It’s bound to be freezing, but February in Amsterdam guarantees lower prices for flights and accommodation, as well as fewer crowds. Besides, all the best things to do in Amsterdam are indoors anyway, and we think the city looks particularly beautiful on a crisp winter morning. If it’s really cold, you may even get lucky with some of the canals freezing over, offering up the very unique opportunity of ice skating on them. Perhaps opt for a life jacket, though.
Happily Ever Rafter, Plum Guide home in Amsterdam, Netherlands
18. Oman
A minimalist brown fort on a sunny day in Oman
Yes, it’s true. The whole ‘oh man’ pun works well because the heat here really does make you think “oh man. It is very, very hot”. However, if you visit in February, you’ll find the temperatures much more agreeable - it's almost a Mediterranean climate, with the average daily temperature sitting around 24°C. From exploring the vast desert terrain to the Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Muscat, there are many hidden gems in this relatively unknown part of the Arabian peninsula.
19. Madrid, Spain
The tower of a tall, fancy building with a domed roof and impressive architecture in Madrid, Spain
If you want to experience Madrid like a local, then February is the time to do so. With tourist numbers low (and temperatures, for that matter), you’ll find you have the city all to yourself. Along the wide, elegant boulevards you’ll discover a rich wealth of European art in the Prado Museum, a world-famous football team at the Bernabeu Stadium, and an abundance of startling architecture.
Open Your Eyes, Plum Guide home in Madrid, Spain
20. Sri Lanka
A large green mountain with a waterfall in Sri Lanka
Rounding off our guide to where to travel in February, we have Sri Lanka. At this time of the year, the weather is wonderful - with warm, dry sunny days typifying most of the island. Whether you’re looking to make the most of the serene beaches, or jump on a train to experience the joys of the interior along with all of the island nation’s culinary delights, this destination makes for a fantastic holiday.
