10 Best Countries to Visit in February 2026: Winter Getaway
- Almosafer
- 2 days ago
- 7 min read
Travelling in February 2026 offers an amazing experience, providing a wonderful escape from the harsh winter cold and the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the mid-year holidays. But with so many tourist destinations to choose from, you may find it difficult to decide. Don't worry, Al-Musafir helps you determine the best countries to visit in February 2026 based on the latest events and weather forecasts.
February 2026 offers amazing travel options, from the sunny beaches and vibrant festivals of Thailand to the tranquil historical sites of Italy and the legendary Venice Carnival. Costa Rica shines with its tropical rainforests, while Japan is perfect for snow festivals and skiing in 2026. New Zealand invites visitors to explore its natural wonders, and the cities of southern Spain celebrate lively carnivals.
Whether you're looking for tropical sunshine or want to be at the heart of world events, here's your updated guide to the best destinations for February 2026:
Don't miss out on February 2026 trips:
The 2026 Winter Olympics: Get ready, Italy will be the centre of attention (Milan and Cortina), bringing a different flavour to winter tourism in Europe this year.
Ramadan in February: For the first time in years, the holy month of Ramadan will begin in mid-February 2026. This will change the tourist map of Dubai, Morocco and Turkey.
Escaping high prices: February is the ‘golden window’ before the expected crazy price hikes during the Easter season, which comes early this year.
1. Thailand
In February, Thailand is an enchanting destination that combines tropical beauty with cultural richness. Picturesque islands and vibrant cities such as Bangkok shine with a unique harmony between stunning nature and ancient heritage. The mild weather during this month provides the perfect opportunity to explore ancient temples and wander through lively street markets.
Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F)
Best Places to Visit in February: Grand Palace & Wat Phra, Ayutthaya Historical Park & Khao Sok National Park.
Popular Activities: Beach hopping, cultural festivals, hiking and Thai cooking classes.
Major airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi & Phuket International Airport.
2. Italy
Italy is less crowded in February, offering a unique experience of its rich history and culture, especially in cities such as Rome, Venice and Florence. The Venice Carnival is one of the highlights of February.
Average Temperature: 8°C in Rome
Best Places to Visit in February: The Colosseum, Uffizi Gallery, and St. Mark's Basilica.
Popular Activities: Skiing in the Alps and attending the Venice Carnival.
Major airports: Rome (Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport), Milan (Malpensa), and Venice (Marco Polo).
Flights to Italy With Almosafer
Hotels in Italy With Almosafer
Also Read:
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the best countries to visit in February for warm weather, offering a tropical paradise with sunny beaches and lush rainforests. It's perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.
Average Temperature: 27°C
Best Places to Visit in February: San José, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park.
Popular Activities: Zip-lining, surfing, and wildlife tours.
Major airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport.
Flights to Costa Rica With Almosafer
Hotels in Costa Rica With Almosafer
4. Japan
In February, Japan transforms into a wonderland, where enchanting snowy landscapes harmonise with vibrant cultural life. This period offers a unique opportunity to explore distinctive festivals and enjoy the tranquillity that reigns in its historic temples. The highlight of February is the Sapporo Snow Festival held in Hokkaido. Travellers can enjoy a unique experience by skiing on the slopes of this magnificent region. In Kyoto, visitors can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this season.
Average Temperature: 5°C in Tokyo
Best Places to Visit in February: Tokyo, Kyoto, Sapporo, and Hokkaido.
Popular Activities: Skiing in Hokkaido, attending the Sapporo Snow Festival, and exploring historic temples.
Major airports: Tokyo Narita and Haneda, and Osaka Kansai.
Flights to Japan With Almosafer
Hotels in Japan With Almosafer
5. New Zealand
February is the summer month in New Zealand. It offers the best conditions for exploring the breathtaking landscapes. From the beaches of the North Island to the mountains of the South Island, it is a haven for nature lovers.
Average Temperature: 20°C in Auckland
Best Places to Visit in February: The Southern Alps National Park, The Blue Lake, The Tongariro National Park, and Huka Falls.
Popular Activities: Hiking, bungee jumping, and wine tasting.
Major airports: Auckland Airport, Christchurch International Airport and Wellington International Airport.
Flights to New Zealand With Almosafer
Hotels in New Zealand With Almosafer
6. Spain
Spain in February offers a unique combination of mild weather and cultural celebrations, making it a great destination for travellers seeking a distinctive winter experience in Europe. Mallorca is characterised by its magnificent almond blossoms, while the vibrant streets of Barcelona are bustling with exciting activities. Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Mallorca are ideal places to visit in February. These cities offer incredible cultural and historical diversity, where travellers can discover historical landmarks and attend wonderful local festivals.
Average Temperature: 10°C in Madrid
Best Places to Visit in February: The Prado Museum, Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor, Cathedral of Santa María, Picasso Museum, Alhambra and the Canary Islands.
Popular Activities: Exploring historical landmarks, attending local festivals, and enjoying Mediterranean cuisine.
Major airports: Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport, and Palma de Mallorca Airport.
Flights to Spain With Almosafer
Hotels in Spain With Almosafer
7. South Africa
South Africa in February is a wildlife enthusiast's dream. The warm weather is perfect for safaris in Kruger National Park and exploring the vibrant city of Cape Town.
Average Temperature: 25°C in Cape Town
Best Places to Visit in February: Boulders Beach, V&A Waterfront, Robben Island, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route.
Popular Activities: Wildlife safaris, beach visits, and cultural tours.
Major airports: Cape Town International and O.R. Tambo International Airport.
Flights to South Africa With Almosafer
Hotels in South Africa With Almosafer
8. Canada
In February, Canada offers a winter wonderland experience. From the Northern Lights in the Yukon to the ski slopes of Whistler, it's a paradise for snow lovers and adventurers.
Average Temperature: -5°C in Toronto
Best Places to Visit in February: Jasper National Park, Niagara Falls, Mount Edith Cavell and Rideau Canal.
Popular Activities: Skiing, Ice hockey, and Northern Lights viewing.
Major airports: Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, and Montreal-Trudeau.
Flights to Canada With Almosafer
Hotels in Canada With Almosafer
9. United Arab Emirates
In February, the UAE becomes a magical place that blends modern luxury with old-world charm. Dubai offers towering skyscrapers and fine art museums, while Abu Dhabi showcases rich cultural traditions and handicrafts. For nature lovers, Sharjah's beautiful desert landscapes are a must-visit. Thanks to the pleasant weather, visitors can enjoy exciting desert safaris and explore these unique locations.
Average Temperature: 20°C in Dubai
Best Places to Visit in February: Khor Fakkan, Jebel Jai in Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the desert landscapes.
Popular Activities: Desert safaris, shopping in luxury malls, and cultural tours.
Major airports: Dubai International and Abu Dhabi International.
Flights to United Arab Emirates With Almosafer
Hotels in United Arab Emirates With Almosafer
Also Read:
10. Portugal
Offering mild weather and lower prices, Portugal in February is a budget traveller's dream. Explore the historic streets of Lisbon without the crowds - immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Portugal's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it one of the best countries to visit in February in Europe.
Average Temperature: 11°C
Best Places to Visit in February: St. George's Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, and Belém Tower.
Popular Activities: Historical Tours, Hiking and Nature Exploration, and Golfing.
Major airports: Lisbon Portela Airport and Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.
Flights to Portugal With Almosafer
Hotels in Portugal With Almosafer
February 2026 is your canvas for creating unforgettable travel stories. From the warm beaches of Costa Rica to the historical streets of Italy, each destination offers a unique slice of paradise. Embrace the adventure, and let these best countries to visit in February enrich your travel diary.
Ready to embark on your February adventure? Book your trip today and explore winter destinations. For more travel insights and tips, visit Almosafer Blog.
Also Read:
Interesting activities to try:
Frequently asked questions about travelling in February 2026
1. What is the cheapest tourist destination in February 2026?
Vietnam and Portugal are among the most affordable destinations this year. Portugal offers very low prices for accommodation in February (outside the peak season), while Vietnam remains a destination par excellence for those looking for high quality at a low price.
2. Is travelling to Europe in February a good idea?
Yes, provided you know your destination. If you are a fan of skiing or carnivals (such as Venice), it is the perfect time. If you are escaping the cold, we recommend heading to the Spanish Canary Islands or Cyprus, where the temperatures are mild.
3. How will Ramadan 2026 affect tourism in February?
Ramadan will begin around 18 February 2026. In the first half of the month, you will find festivals and bustling shopping, while in the second half, the atmosphere will shift to calm and spiritual celebrations at night. It is a great opportunity for those who want to experience both in one trip.
4. Where can I find the best ‘winter sun’ in February?
Without a doubt, Thailand, Costa Rica, and South Africa. These destinations are at the peak of their summer or dry season in February, guaranteeing cloudless skies and perfect swimming conditions.
5. Do I need a visa in advance for Thailand in 2026?
Thailand has recently updated its visa laws for many Arab and foreign nationalities (DTV visa and others). We always recommend checking the embassy website or the ‘Al-Musafir’ platform 30 days before booking.
.png)