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What is the best place to travel in February?
February is a great time to travel to destinations that may not be within your budget during the summer months. However, while most destinations are considered off-peak at this time of year, some cities like Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans see an influx of tourists due to the festival season.
Where you’re likely to travel in February will depend on whether you’re looking for an off-season deal or to catch the end of the ski season. You’ll find the warmest temperatures in the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Central America. Alternatively, Europe can also offer some winter sun with destinations like the Canary Islands and Portugal seeing highs of up to 21°C (70°F), perfect for a start-of-year beach getaway or if you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s Day trip.
Top tips for planning a February vacation
February offers something for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for a cheap business class deal with an international airline or to tick an experience like visiting Machu Picchu off your vision board. Although you can expect airports and hotels to be busier over Valentine’s Day weekend and in school districts with mid-term holidays, the rest of the month offers great opportunities for making the most of your travel budget.
It’s worth spending a little extra time planning a February vacation, especially if you’re visiting a country that’s experiencing its off-peak or dry season. Weather conditions may not be what you expect, and it’s possible some attractions and experiences aren’t available due to the lower tourist crowds. Always take the time to do a little extra research, whether you’re using our travel guides or watching content creators on TikTok and YouTube.
20 places to travel in February 2026 for an off-season deal or winter sun
While February is the perfect time to visit a warm place to catch some winter sun, it’s also an opportunity for travelers to take advantage of last-minute deals and discounts for destinations that are experiencing their off-peak season.
If you’ve always wanted to visit a hot country but don’t want to vacation during a time of high humidity, February is a great alternative. Below, we’re sharing 20 of the best places to visit in late winter to kickstart your 2026 travel itinerary.
1. San Jose, Costa Rica
- Where to stay: Barceló San Jose
- What to do: Visit Cocos Island National Park
February is right in the middle of Costa Rica’s dry season, making it the best time to visit for those who want to avoid the rainy season. This destination continues to top the list of the best places to visit with its “pura vida” lifestyle focused on gratitude, positivity, and wellbeing. It has something for everyone, with its protected jungles and deserted beaches, a tropical paradise for nature lovers.
No trip is complete without visiting Cocos Island National Park, famous for its diving and as one of the best spots for dolphin watching. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to manta rays, sea turtles, and other diverse marine life. Prefer the land to the sea? Head to La Amistad National Park, where you’ll find the country’s highest mountain, Cerro Chirripó.
Prefer the land to the sea? Head to La Amistad National Park, where you’ll find the country’s highest mountain, Cerro Chirripó.
Photo by reisegraf.ch on Shutterstock
2. Thailand, Southeast Asia
- Where to stay: Akara Hotel Bangkok
- What to do: Indulge in a (very affordable!) wellness treatment
We’ve predicted that Southeast Asia is going to be one of the best summer vacation spots for 2026, but you don’t have to wait until then to visit! Thailand has been topping the list of places to visit for years, thanks to its affordability and widespread appeal. As Thailand has become more popular, it’s seen an influx of luxury resorts and hotel chains, offering everything from wellness retreats to beach getaways.
February is when Thailand has lower humidity, making it easier for visitors from cooler climates to explore areas like Krabi and Phuket without worrying about the heat. With the lower tourist crowds, it’s often easier to get last-minute tickets for experiences like snorkeling, or if you want to be more flexible with your island hopping.
As Thailand has become more popular, it’s seen an influx of luxury resorts and hotel chains, offering everything from wellness retreats to beach getaways.
Photo by satit sewtiw on Shutterstock
3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Where to stay: The Myst Dong Khoi
- What to do: Sample local cuisine, like Bánh xèo and Bò né.
2025 was a milestone year for Vietnam, marking 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War. Ho Chi Minh City – still known in some parts as “Saigon” – hosted a series of celebrations and events to mark the anniversary of its national reunification. If you’ve been waiting to visit Vietnam, February 2026 is the first opportunity to do so following the anniversary celebrations, giving you a chance to explore the country without the recent tourist crowds.
If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City in February, you’ll also be able to take part in the Lunar New Year and celebrate the Vietnamese New Year on February 17th. 2025 is the perfect time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, as Vietnam is quickly starting to earn a name for itself with its culinary delights and bustling nightlife, giving it more widespread appeal for tourists outside of the backpacking niche.
If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City in February, you’ll also be able to take part in the Lunar New Year and celebrate the Vietnamese New Year.
Photo by Huy Thoai on Shutterstock
4. Schweitzer, Idaho
- Where to stay: Pend Oreille Shores Resort
- What to do: Hit the best slopes in the USA.
You don’t have to head to Europe to hit the slopes. Idaho is home to Sun Valley, one of the top ski destinations in the United States. February is a great time for skiing in the U.S., as you can expect smaller crowds, while enjoying milder temperatures and reasonable snowfall.
Pend Oreille Shores Resort is just a 30-minute drive from Schweitzer, ideal for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the slopes for a quieter accommodation option. Schweitzer makes it easy to choose from a range of ticket options, including beginner lift tickets and twilight lift tickets.
Idaho is home to Sun Valley, one of the top ski destinations in the United States.
Photo by SharpLumberjack on Shutterstock
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
- Where to stay: Hotel Hans
- What to do: Embrace the feeling of “hygge” with a digital detox.
February falls in that awkward in-between time where it feels like winter is finally coming to an end, but it’s not yet spring. If you’re struggling to get through the winter blues, it’s time to embrace the Scandinavian feeling of ‘“hygge” with a vacation to the country’s capital. It’s the perfect option if you want a slower vacation or a weekend city break.
Copenhagen is often overlooked in favor of more glamorous cities like London and Paris, but there’s more than enough to fill a week-long itinerary here. Rosenborg Castle is one of the most popular historic sites in the city, while you can pick up some authentic Scandinavian souvenirs in Strøget, one of Europe’s largest pedestrian streets.
Rosenborg Castle is one of the most popular historic sites in the city.
Photo by kavalenkava on Shutterstock
6. Maldives
- Where to stay: Island Luxury Boutique Hotel, Fulhadhoo
- What to do: Go snorkeling to see the manta rays
No destination in the world is talked about as much as the Maldives. It’s become the must-visit destination for celebrities, influencers, and everyday travel enthusiasts alike. The Republic of Maldives is nestled in the Indian Ocean in South Asia to the Southwest of India and Sri Lanka. There are 26 atolls and over 1,000 islands that make up the Maldives, making them a dream come true for island hoppers.
It is quickly becoming a go-to choice for honeymoons and romantic getaways. It’s one of our favorite February vacation ideas as the month offers ideal conditions for diving and snorkeling without the summer crowds. If you’ve always dreamt of seeing manta rays, this is the time to visit! February also falls outside of the monsoon season (May to November) and is warm and dry without being too humid.
Maldives is quickly becoming a go-to choice for honeymoons and romantic getaways.
Photo by Sven Hansche on Shutterstock
7. Washington, D.C.
- Where to stay: Phoenix Park Hotel
- What to do: Explore the city’s diverse range of museums and historic sites.
February is Black History Month and a time of reflection. While you might be tempted to book a trip to somewhere like Mexico or Chile, February is the ideal time for an educational trip closer to home. Washington D.C. is a year-round destination with a myriad of museums and exhibitions to visit – many of them open to the public for free.
While famous museums like the Smithsonian and National Archives will attract visitors for every season, February is when the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the National Museum of African American History and Culture are at their busiest. Washington D.C. is a walkable city, making it ideal for a weekend break, with plenty of independent restaurants, quirky bookshops, and stand-alone boutiques to visit.
February is Black History Month and a time of reflection.
Photo by ItzaVU on Shutterstock
8. Paris, France
- Where to stay: B Montmartre
- What to do: Visit Disneyland during its slow season
If you’re a regular reader of the ZenHotels blog, you’ll know that we’re fans of Paris. We’ve already written several in-depth guides for navigating the French capital, from where to stay for a memorable trip to our list of the most popular tourist attractions, and even how to dress like a Parisienne.
February is also an ideal time to visit Disneyland Paris, especially this year as the park prepares to open its long-awaited World of Frozen expansion in late March. You can explore most of the park without the summer crowds and take advantage of shorter lines for rides and character meet and greets without splurging on a Premier Access pass. If you’re staying in Paris, you can reach the theme park in just 45 minutes by direct train.
February is a great chance to experience Paris at your own pace.
Photo by Sven Hansche on Shutterstock
9. Vienna, Austria
- Where to stay: MAXX by Steigenberger Hotel Vienna
- What to do: Attend one of Vienna’s famous classical balls
While cities like Paris and Rome continue to top the list of the best places to visit in Europe, don’t overlook Vienna! The city is considered one of the best places to live in Europe, with a wave of new hotels opening throughout the area. February is when Vienna hosts its iconic balls that capture an imperial tradition and offer a unique chance to get dressed up and dance in the city’s most famous buildings. Make sure to practice your Viennese Waltz before grabbing a ticket for the Vienna Philharmonic Ball, Vienna Opera Ball, or the Johann Strauss Ball.
Vienna is considered one of the best places to live in Europe, with a wave of new hotels opening throughout the area.
Photo by Eder Paisan on Shutterstock
10. Tokyo, Japan
- Where to stay: Park Hyatt Tokyo
- What to do: Enjoy some of the best views of Mt. Fuji
2026 is bringing major changes for tourists to Japan, and February is a great time to visit if you’re happy to deal with colder temperatures in exchange for a better deal. Make sure to do your research on the new tourist measures being introduced, even if you’re heading back to Japan on a return visit.
Theme park enthusiasts will want to take advantage of the smaller crowds to visit Universal Studios, Sanrio Puroland, and Tokyo DisneySea. Another unexpected benefit of visiting in February is that you can expect to get a better view of Mount Fuji, whether you’re planning a hike or taking a bullet train across Japan.
Are you planning your first visit to Tokyo? We’ve got you covered with our list of the 15 best hotels to stay in Tokyo and our in-depth guide of must-visit attractions and experiences to add to your itinerary.
2026 is bringing major changes for tourists to Japan, and February is a great time to visit if you’re happy to deal with colder temperatures in exchange for a better deal.
Photo by Maxime Bouchinet on Shutterstock
11. Dolomites, Italy
- Where to stay: Hotel Garni Snaltnerhof
- What to do: Enjoy the best ski conditions with stunning UNESCO World Heritage scenery.
Italy offers some of the best ski experiences that you’ll find anywhere in Europe, including in the Dolomites. What makes this region special is its UNESCO World Heritage scenery, giving you an unforgettable experience, even if you’re planning to spend your time sampling hot chocolate instead of jumping on the ski lift.
If you’re planning to hit up the slopes at several different resorts, you’ll want to invest in a Dolomiti Superski pass, as this will give you ski access at 12 different resorts. More experienced skiers will want to head to the slopes at Arabba-Marmolda, where you can expect to get some of the most ideal conditions of the year in February.
What makes this region special is its UNESCO World Heritage scenery, giving you an unforgettable experience, even if you’re planning to spend your time sampling hot chocolate instead of jumping on the ski lift.
Photo by Yuriy Biryukov on Shutterstock
12. Reykjavik, Iceland
- Where to stay: Hotel Holt – The Art Hotel
- What to do: Indulge in a trip to a natural hot spring, like Blue Lagoon.
Iceland is another location constantly topping the list of best places to vacation in February. The month is one of the darkest of the year in Iceland, giving you the best chance of catching the showstopping display of the northern lights. You’ll want to add extra layers to your travel checklist, including sturdy boots and thermal tops.
The Winter Lights Festival is hosted annually in Reykjavik with a range of cultural events held throughout the surrounding area, including art installations. It’s worth noting that the unpredictable weather in February means some activities on your travel itinerary may become unavailable at short notice. However, there’s still plenty to do throughout Reykjavik, from horseback riding to relaxing in the natural hot springs or glacier hiking.
The Winter Lights Festival is hosted annually in Reykjavik with a range of cultural events held throughout the surrounding area, including art installations.
Photo by Fueled by Time on Shutterstock
13. New Orleans, United States
- Where to stay: Hotel Mazarin
- What to do: Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans’ French Quarter
Blanche DuBois in Tennessee Williams’ play “A Streetcar Named Desire”, set in New Orleans, famously said that “I don’t want realism, I want magic”. If you want magic, look no further than New Orleans in February. Mardi Gras is the hallmark event of the year for the city, with carnival events happening from February to March. Expect to see daily parades, street performers, and masquerade balls taking over the famous French Quarter.
New Orleans is known for its mouth-watering culinary delights, from gumbo to jambalaya. Musicians like Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and Louis Armstrong provide the soundtrack of the city, often playing out loud from restaurants and nightclubs all day long. Make sure to pack a costume, comfortable shoes, and a mask if you want to take part in the parades.
Mardi Gras is the hallmark event of the year for the city, with carnival events happening from February to March.
Photo by Adam McCullough on Shutterstock
14. Cusco, Peru, South America
- Where to stay: Andenes By Mountain Lodges of Peru
- What to do: Explore South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city
Everyone has destinations that are on their bucket list, whether you’ve always dreamt of climbing Mount Everest or seeing the penguins in Antarctica. Peru is one of those places that most of us talk about visiting, drawn to the country by the allure of its historic ruins, including Machu Picchu, and outdoor experiences.
February can be a tricky, but rewarding, time to visit Peru. You’ll be there in the middle of the country’s wet season, meaning you can expect regular rainfall and for the main Inca Trail to be closed; however, there are alternative routes and the train is still available. However, you’ll be rewarded with lower prices for hotels and tours and fewer crowds, giving you a more tranquil experience – just don’t forget your waterproof gear!
Cusco is South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city.
Photo by Chengwei Tu on Shutterstock
15. Kingston, Jamaica
- Where to stay: The Courtleigh Hotel and Suites
- What to do: Explore the Bob Marley Museum
Every reggae music fan needs to visit Jamaica at least once. February is one of the best times to explore Jamaica, especially if you’re planning on doing outdoor activities across the island. Visiting during its driest month provides ideal conditions for snorkeling and swimming as the sea is often the calmest.
February also marks the birthday of Bob Marley, with the island hosting a range of events and concerts. He was born just two hours outside of Kingston in Nine Mile, with tourists still able to visit where he was born. Bob Marley Museum is one of Jamaica’s top attractions, set within a 19th-century colonial-style home purchased by Marley in the 1970s. Music aficionados can visit Tuff Gong, where Marley recorded his albums, and Trench Town Culture Yard, considered the birthplace of reggae music.
February is one of the best times to explore Jamaica, especially if you’re planning on doing outdoor activities across the island.
Photo by Photo Spirit on Shutterstock
16. Finland, Europe
- Where to stay: VALO Hotel & Work Helsinki
- What to do: Head to the countryside to catch the Northern Lights
The start of 2026 falls within the peak of the current solar cycle, meaning you have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights with the naked eye. If you’re not interested in a beach vacation and want to experience outdoor sports during winter, a destination like Finland is the perfect alternative. While you’re likely to see the Northern Lights, you can also try something new with dog sledding, cross-country skiing, or taking part in Finland’s sauna culture.
February is relatively quiet after the New Year’s Eve rush, and you can expect to find more affordable vacation deals, whether you’re heading to Helsinki or a town like Rovaniemi, considered the home of Santa Claus, or Saariselka, the northernmost town in Finland.
If you’re not interested in a beach vacation and want to experience outdoor sports during winter, a destination like Finland is the perfect alternative.
Photo by Roman Babakin on Shutterstock
17. Ibiza, Spain
- Where to stay: El Hotel Pacha
- What to do: Discover the sandy beaches and lively nightlife.
Ibiza is one of the go-to destinations for holidaymakers during the summer, but February offers a unique opportunity to experience the island like a local. Expect a more laid-back experience than the intense clubbing atmosphere that takes over during peak season. February is when you’ll get some of the best deals for a trip to Ibiza, with food, drinks, and experiences usually being more affordable as tourist numbers fall.
If you want a Mardi Gras experience without crossing the Atlantic, you can experience a Carnival atmosphere in Ibiza with parades and parties held throughout February. Although famous for its nightclubs, those who prefer a more laid-back vacation can reconnect with nature on the north side of the island. There are plenty of remote beaches to explore, with Ibiza Horse Valley being a popular choice for animal lovers who want to explore the island on horseback.
February is when you’ll get some of the best deals for a trip to Ibiza, with food, drinks, and experiences usually being more affordable as tourist numbers fall.
Photo by Helena GARCIA HUERTAS on Shutterstock
18. Singapore, Singapore
- Where to stay: Marina Bay Sands Hotel
- What to do: Celebrate the Chinese New Year in the city
Singapore is a destination that you might have been considering for a summer vacation, until you saw the daily temperatures. It’s a well-known fact that Singapore’s humidity can make it a difficult place to visit for Westerners who aren’t as accustomed to the heat.
February is a sweet spot for visiting the country as you’ll experience it during a time of lower humidity, with less rainfall and more pleasant temperatures. However, you can still expect daily temperatures to range between 24 and 31°C, so don’t pack your winter clothes! You’ll want to take advantage of the better weather to focus on outdoor experiences, including if you’re making a return visit to Singapore. MacRitchie Nature Trail, the beaches at Lazarus Island, and the Gardens by the Bay are outdoor activities you’ll want to do earlier in the day before the humidity and temperatures start to rise.
February is a sweet spot for visiting the country as you’ll experience it during a time of lower humidity, with less rainfall and more pleasant temperatures.
Photo by Real_Seal on Shutterstock
19. Venice, Italy
- Where to stay: Hotel San Cassiano Ca’Favretto
- What to do: Dress up and attend the Carnival of Venice
Another city famous for its carnival is Venice. Although you can expect February to be the coldest time of year, it gives you a chance to get up close to Venice’s iconic Gothic architecture without the bustling summer crowds. Carnival changes annually, ending on Shrove Tuesday before the start of Lent, just like Mardi Gras. This carnival can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with the modern celebration revived in 1979.
Famous for its Venetian masks, the Carnival of Venice is centered around Saint Mark’s Square. The theme for 2026 is “Olympus, the origins of play”, running from 7th to 7th February. You can’t leave Venice without a traditional gondola ride down Canal Grande and a visit to Doge’s Palace, the Basilica di San Marco, and Piazza San Marco.
Carnival changes annually, ending on Shrove Tuesday before the start of Lent, just like Mardi Gras.
Photo by anna_minaeva on Shutterstock
20. Colombia, South America
- Where to stay: Caribe by Faranda Hotel
- What to do: Attend the Carnaval de Barranquilla
Many countries that offer warm weather in February are also experiencing their dry season during this time, meaning you can take advantage of more comfortable temperatures and avoid the rain showers that are common during hotter months. If you’ve always wanted to visit South America, February is a chance to explore Colombia without having to leave the beach before 1 PM. If you’re a sunworshipper or enjoy staying outdoors from morning to evening, you’ll get a better experience discovering the hidden gems of Colombia in February, rather than visiting during July or August.
Don’t forget to make time for discovering the country’s history by exploring the ancient Lost City of Ciudad Perdida, exploring the rainforests at Tayrona National Park, and visiting the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira.
Carnival allows you to experience the best of Colombian culture up close and personal, from sampling local cuisine to immersing yourself in the colorful parades and catching live entertainment.
Photo by Gary C. Tognoni on Shutterstock
Plan a stress-free February vacation with ZenHotels
February vacations are a chance to escape the cold and grey weather of late winter and treat yourself to a getaway. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or want to book a long weekend away, February is the perfect time to grab a bargain. Some of the most popular destinations in the world – like Japan – are in their off-peak season, giving you a unique chance to visit without the usual tourist crowds.
At ZenHotels, it’s our goal to make your travel dreams a reality. Wherever you’re heading this February, we’ve got hotel and accommodation options to suit your budget and travel needs. Book the best hotel rates in over 220 countries with ZenHotels and download our mobile app to access exclusive rates even lower than on our website.
