Craving some winter sunshine? While most of Europe shivers in the cold, destinations like the Canary Islands and Cyprus bask in temperatures over 20°C.
Imagine exploring ancient ruins without the crowds or celebrating carnival season in shorts – all while the rest of Europe bundles up in winter coats.
Ready to plan your winter escape? Below you’ll find everything you need to know about Europe’s warmest destinations this February.
Warmest Countries in Europe in February
While Mediterranean destinations offer relief from winter’s chill, February temperatures (mostly 14-18°C) are perfect for sightseeing but still too cool for beach activities.
Here are Europe’s warmest countries:
- Spain – particularly the Canary Islands, where temperatures reach 22°C
- Cyprus – second warmest country with temperatures up to 18°C
- Portugal – with Madeira reaching 17°C and Algarve around 16°C
- Malta – consistent mild temperatures around 16°C
- Greece – southern islands like Crete reaching 16°C, mainland around 14-15°C
12 Warmest Places in Europe in February
Ready to discover the perfect winter escape? From sun-soaked Spanish islands to historic Mediterranean cities, here’s your guide to Europe’s warmest February destinations
1. Canary Islands, Spain
The hottest place in Europe in February, where eternal spring reigns at 20-22°C.
While mainland Europe shivers, the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria offer perfect conditions for hiking Mount Teide’s volcanic landscapes.
February brings vibrant carnival celebrations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and opportunities to explore Gran Canaria’s dramatic mountain villages, while Lanzarote and Fuerteventura provide unique volcanic scenery without the summer crowds.
2. Cyprus
A warm place in Europe in February, where east meets west at a balmy 16-18°C.
Wander through ancient ruins, explore Byzantine churches, and trek the stunning Troodos Mountains.
Base yourself in vibrant Limassol or historic Paphos, where almond blossoms transform the landscape and winter crowds are refreshingly thin.
3. Malta and Gozo
Where is warm in February in Europe? Look no further than Malta’s honey-colored cities basking in 16-17°C sunshine.
Wander through Valletta’s baroque streets, explore Mdina’s silent alleyways, and discover megalithic temples without summer crowds.
A short ferry ride takes you to the more rural Gozo, where you can discover ancient temples like Ġgantija, dramatic coastal scenery including the Azure Window site, and traditional village life at a slower pace.
4. Madeira, Portugal
One of the best places to visit Europe in February, with balmy temperatures of 15-17°C.
Hike dramatic levada trails, explore Funchal’s botanical gardens, and warm up with local Madeira wine.
The February flower festival brings an explosion of color to this already stunning Atlantic isle.
5. Andalusia, Spain
One of the best places in Europe in February, this sun-drenched region enjoys temperatures of 14-17°C.
Base yourself in Málaga for vibrant art scenes and the Picasso Museum, or in Seville to explore its magnificent Alcázar palace.
Don’t miss Córdoba’s mesmerizing Mezquita or Granada’s stunning Alhambra, each offering a unique window into Andalusia’s Moorish heritage.
February offers perfect conditions for exploring the charming pueblos blancos (white villages) and enjoying tapas on historic plazas without summer’s intense heat and crowds.
6. Algarve, Portugal
The best place to go in Europe in February for combining coastal walks with historic exploration.
At 14-16°C, the conditions are perfect for discovering the region’s beauty and heritage.
Base yourself in larger cities like Albufeira or Lagos, which maintain a lively atmosphere and full services year-round, rather than smaller coastal towns where many hotels close for winter.
Perfect for golfing, coastal walks, and exploring historic centers without the summer crowds.
7. Sicily, Italy
Warm places in Europe in February include this beautiful island, where 14-16°C days provide perfect sightseeing conditions.
Base yourself in vibrant Palermo to explore baroque churches and bustling street markets, or head east to Catania under Mount Etna.
February is ideal for discovering Sicily’s UNESCO baroque towns like Ragusa, Noto, and Syracuse’s ancient island of Ortygia, with fewer tourists and perfect conditions for sampling winter specialties in local trattorias.
8. Costa Blanca, Spain
A warm welcome awaits on Spain’s ‘White Coast’, with February temperatures around 14-16°C.
Base yourself in Alicante city to explore its historic Santa Bárbara Castle and lively waterfront, or head to charming Altea with its picture-perfect old town topped by a blue-domed church.
February offers perfect conditions for walking the palm-lined promenades of Benidorm or exploring inland gems like the mountaintop village of Guadalest, without summer’s intense heat.
9. Valencia Region, Spain
Among the warmest places in Europe in February, Valencia shines at 14-16°C.
Begin in the stunning City of Arts and Sciences complex, then lose yourself in the historic Carmen district’s medieval streets.
Take day trips to charming Xàtiva with its hilltop castle, the Roman ruins of Sagunto, or the orange-grove surrounded monastery of El Puig.
The mild weather and carnival celebrations make this an ideal time to explore without summer’s crowds.
10. Athens & Attica Region, Greece
Clear winter skies and temperatures of 13-15°C make February ideal for exploring this historic region.
Start in Athens where you can climb the Acropolis without summer’s crowds and intense heat, then lose yourself in the charming Plaka neighborhood’s tavernas.
The Attica region offers plenty of day trips: explore the Temple of Poseidon perched dramatically on Cape Sounion’s cliffs, visit the ancient mysteries of Eleusis, or discover the premium wines of Mesogeia.
11. Crete, Greece
Best places to visit Europe in February include Greece’s largest island, with mild 14-16°C temperatures perfect for exploring.
Base yourself in the lively city of Heraklion to discover Minoan history at Knossos Palace, or choose charming Chania for its Venetian harbor and excellent food scene.
Winter is ideal for hiking the countless gorges without summer’s heat – try the lesser-known Agia Irini gorge or explore the White Mountains.
Many resort areas are quiet, but the main cities remain wonderfully authentic with locals filling traditional tavernas for warming mountain dishes and raki.
12. Nice & French Riviera
Though the coolest on our list (11-13°C), the French Riviera sparkles in February.
Nice comes alive with its famous carnival and festivities, while the coastal train makes it easy to explore the region’s highlights: Antibes’ charming old town, glamorous Cannes and Monte Carlo, medieval Èze, and Menton’s famous February lemon festival.
Perfect for sophisticated urban exploration and art museums without summer’s overwhelming crowds.
Final Thoughts on The Hottest Places to Go in Europe in February
Whether you’re seeking winter sun in the Canary Islands or exploring ancient ruins in Cyprus, February offers a unique opportunity to experience Europe’s warmest destinations without the summer crowds.
While swimming might be off the cards, you’ll find perfect conditions for sightseeing, hiking, and immersing yourself in local culture.
Ready for more European adventures? Check out these popular guides:
- 10 Snow-Dusted Winter Destinations in Germany You Can’t Miss!
- Ultimate Bucket List: 100 Unforgettable Things to Do in Europe
Discover more destination guides, travel tips, and seasonal recommendations on our Europe travel blog!
