16 AMAZING Warm Places in Europe in February 2026

464

Every winter, when most travelers are fleeing Europe for the tropics, I lean in…and chase the sun across the continent. My wife is Austrian, so we’re based in Europe part of the year, and February has become one of my favorite months to explore its underrated warm-weather gems. Over the years, I’ve visited each of the places in this list firsthand, often returning more than once because they offer something rare: actual sunshine, mild temps, and way fewer crowds.

This list of 16 warm places in Europe for February 2026 isn’t based on wishful thinking…it’s built from personal experience, flight tracking research, and historical weather data. These are the destinations that consistently deliver good weather, easy access from major cities, and just enough going on to keep your trip exciting without feeling hectic. If you’re craving warmth without long-haul flights, here’s exactly where to go in Feb 2026.

Overview of Europe’s Climate in February

Europe in February is a mixed bag, but that’s exactly what makes it so fun to explore. While much of the north is blanketed in snow and the Alps are in full ski mode, pockets of the south are quietly basking in mild, sunny weather. Think 60s and blue skies in spots like southern Spain, Cyprus, or the Canary Islands, while Paris and Berlin are still bundled up in winter coats.

The Mediterranean is your best bet for warmth and light. Coastal areas in Portugal, Italy, and Greece often see 6–8 hours of sunshine a day, with temperatures hovering in the 55–65°F range. Not exactly beach weather, but ideal for outdoor cafes, hiking, and exploring ancient ruins without the heat or crowds.

The real beauty of February in Europe? You get access to both: cozy winter wonderlands and surprisingly sunny escapes…all just a short flight apart. Let’s dive into the warm European countries in February that you should know about.

Top Warm Destinations in Europe

In February, Europe offers several destinations where you can bask in mild temperatures and enjoy sunny days. Here are the hottest places in Europe in February:

1. Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife is hands down one of the warmest places in Europe in February. Expect average highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows around 15°C (59°F). Rain is minimal and the island sees 6–7 hours of sun per day.

February also means Carnival season, with colorful parades and music filling the streets of Santa Cruz…second only to Rio’s in size. Hike in Teide National Park, explore the volcanic beaches in Los Gigantes, or go whale watching along the southwest coast. Fewer tourists and lower prices compared to spring make it a great time to visit.

Direct flights from major European hubs arrive daily into Tenerife South (TFS), with service from Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling. I spent an entire day hiking through volcanic landscapes in shorts while my friends back home were bundled up in winter coats, feeling like I had discovered a secret tropical paradise. Whether you’re into nature, beaches, or local culture, Tenerife is the ultimate winter sun destination.

2. Corfu, Greece

While summer is Corfu‘s peak, February offers a quiet, affordable way to explore this green island. Average highs reach 15°C (59°F) with lows around 8°C (46°F) and 4–5 hours of sun daily. It’s a shoulder month, with light rain but often clear skies.

February brings the start of Apokries, Greece’s version of Carnival, with dancing, masks, and local parades in Corfu Town. Hike sections of the Corfu Trail, stroll along Liston Promenade, or visit the Achilleion Palace without the usual crowds. You won’t swim, but you will have incredible views and peace.

Direct flights are limited in winter, but Athens offers regular connections to Corfu via Aegean Airlines and Sky Express. I walked through the empty Achilleion Palace gardens on a crisp February morning, feeling like I had the entire imperial estate to myself while enjoying views of the sparkling Ionian Sea.

• Read next: Amazing Hidden Gems in Europe
• You may also like: Incredible Experiences in Corfu
• For more reading: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Bucket List

3. Madeira, Portugal

With its eternal spring climate, Madeira is a top February destination. Expect highs around 19°C (66°F), lows of 13°C (55°F), and 5–6 hours of daily sunshine. While occasional rain falls, it keeps the island beautifully lush.

February also means Madeira Carnival, a lively week of floats and samba-inspired dancing in Funchal. Beyond that, it’s all about hiking the scenic levadas, exploring the cloud forests of Ribeiro Frio, or enjoying a coastal viewpoint like Cabo Girão. Stay warm in oceanfront spas or wine bars, sampling the island’s famous fortified wine.

Funchal Airport is well-connected with winter flights from Lisbon, London, Frankfurt, and beyond via TAP, easyJet, and Jet2. I hiked through ancient laurel forests surrounded by mist and birdsong, feeling like I was exploring a lost world that existed nowhere else on Earth.

• Read next: Amazing Islands in Portugal
• You may also like: Incredible Things to Do in Madeira

4. Sicily, Italy

Sicily in February is crisp and quiet…perfect for cultural travelers. Daytime highs sit around 15°C (59°F) with lows near 9°C (48°F). Rain is occasional, but there are 4–5 hours of sun per day.

February marks the festive season of Carnevale, with parades in Acireale and traditional celebrations in Palermo. Explore ancient sites like the Valley of the Temples or Segesta without the crowds. Hike around Mount Etna’s snowy slopes, or enjoy a warm meal in a Palermo trattoria. This is peak citrus season, so don’t skip the blood oranges.

Fly into Palermo or Catania, with winter service from Ryanair, ITA Airways, and easyJet. I wandered through the ancient Valley of the Temples in complete solitude, watching almond blossoms frame 2,500-year-old columns while snow-capped Mount Etna loomed in the distance.

• Read next: Breathtaking Places in Sicily
• You may also like: Stunning & Affordable Places to Fly from Rome

5. Nice, France

Nice is bright and stylish in February, offering Mediterranean light and seasonal charm. Temperatures hover around 13°C (55°F) by day and 6°C (43°F) at night, with 5+ hours of sun and minimal rainfall. The star event? The spectacular Nice Carnival, which takes over the Promenade des Anglais with elaborate floats and flower battles.

February is also great for strolling Old Town, relaxing at seaside cafes, and visiting museums like the Matisse Museum. Less crowded than spring or summer, Nice still buzzes with local life. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is a major hub with winter flights via Air France, easyJet, and British Airways.

I watched the famous flower battles from the Promenade des Anglais while sipping café au lait, feeling like I was experiencing the most elegant carnival celebration in the world.

• Read next: Prettiest Places in the Mediterranean
• You may also like: Enchanting Places in Nice

6. Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca is calm and picturesque in February, offering almond blossoms, cool hikes, and a break from mass tourism. Average temps are 16°C (61°F) by day and 7°C (45°F) at night, with 5–6 hours of sunshine. It’s dry compared to the fall and great for walking the Serra de Tramuntana, exploring Valldemossa, or cycling quiet country roads.

Palma’s Old Town and harbor remain lively, with local markets and tapas bars still buzzing. Fewer tourists = better hotel deals. Palma Airport has winter flights from many cities, especially with Ryanair, Vueling, and Lufthansa.

I cycled through valleys covered in blooming almond trees, feeling like I was riding through an impressionist painting as pink and white petals drifted in the Mediterranean breeze.

• Read next: Warm Places in Europe to Visit in January

7. Gozo, Malta

The island of Gozo offers rustic, Mediterranean beauty without the crowds. February weather is mild with highs around 16°C (61°F), lows of 10°C (50°F), and about 6 hours of sun per day. Rain is occasional, but sunny breaks are common.

Hike along the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, visit the Citadel in Victoria, or soak in the quiet energy of Ramla Bay. February brings local village festivals and a more peaceful side of Maltese island life. Reach Gozo by ferry from Malta, which has direct flights from European hubs via Ryanair, Air Malta, and Wizz Air.

I explored the ancient Citadel with only a handful of locals around, feeling like I had discovered a medieval fortress that time had forgotten.

• Read next: Amazing Experiences in Gozo

8. Sarandë, Albania

Often overlooked, Sarandë is a budget-friendly coastal escape in southern Albania. February brings highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows around 7°C (45°F) with 4–5 hours of sun and some rain. While the beach scene is dormant, the UNESCO-listed Butrint ruins, Lëkurësi Castle, and nearby Blue Eye Spring are stunning and crowd-free.

Winter is peaceful, with quiet cafes and unbeatable prices. Flights arrive in Tirana, and from there it’s a scenic 4-hour drive…or ferry in from Corfu. I had the ancient Butrint ruins entirely to myself, wandering through Greek and Roman theaters while wild peacocks strutted across the archaeological site.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Albania
• You may also like: Amazing Attractions & Activities in the Balkans

9. Crete, Greece

Crete is Greece’s largest island, and February is off-season gold. Expect highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows around 9°C (48°F), with 5–6 hours of sun. Rain is light, and the scenery is green and peaceful.

Hike in the White Mountains, explore Rethymno Old Town, or visit Knossos Palace near Heraklion. February also marks the beginning of Apokries, with carnival events in Chania and other towns. While swimming is out, the island is ideal for quiet cultural adventures.

Winter flights land in Heraklion or Chania via Aegean, Sky Express, or connections through Athens. I explored the Minoan palace at Knossos without a single tour group, imagining ancient ceremonies in the throne room while winter wildflowers bloomed in the courtyards.

• Read next: Unique Greek Islands Experiences

10. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is all about slow winter travel. February highs reach 15°C (59°F), lows around 7°C (45°F), with 5 hours of sun daily. Expect a few showers, but also quiet beaches, historic villages, and delicious local food.

Visit Cagliari’s hilltop castle district, hike Su Gorropu Gorge, or enjoy hearty Sardinian cuisine like culurgiones and roasted meats. Carnival season includes traditional masks in towns like Mamoiada. Fly into Cagliari or Olbia with service from ITA Airways, Volotea, or Ryanair.

I watched traditional mask-wearing dancers in Mamoiada during carnival, feeling like I was witnessing ancient rituals that connected me to Sardinia’s mysterious prehistoric past.

• Read also: Top Things to Know Before Visiting Sardinia

11. Cyprus

Cyprus offers the warmest February weather in mainland Europe, with highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows around 8°C (46°F). It sees 6–7 hours of sunshine, and rainfall is tapering off by mid-month. Visit Paphos for ancient mosaics, the Tombs of the Kings, or hike in the Troodos Mountains, where you might even see snow.

Carnival season kicks off late February, especially in Limassol. Flights into Larnaca and Paphos run year-round from the UK and Europe via Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet. I hiked through snow-dusted pine forests in the Troodos Mountains in the morning, then enjoyed lunch by the Mediterranean coast in the afternoon. Only in Cyprus could you experience winter and spring in the same day! The country truly blends off-season charm with real winter sun.

• Read next: Cyprus Travel Guide

12. The Azores, Portugal

Wild and volcanic, the Azores offer dramatic scenery even in February. Highs average 17°C (63°F) with lows of 12°C (54°F) and 4–5 hours of sun. Rain is likely, but between showers, the landscapes are jaw-dropping.

Explore geothermal springs at Furnas, hike crater lakes like Sete Cidades, or go whale watching (some species are visible year-round). Fewer crowds make it serene and special. Flights land in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, with winter connections from Lisbon, Porto, and seasonal European cities via SATA and TAP Portugal.

I soaked in natural hot springs at Furnas while rain fell all around me, feeling like I was in nature’s own spa surrounded by volcanic steam and tropical vegetation.

• Read next: Top Attractions in São Miguel Island

13. Monaco

Monaco in February is quieter but still glitzy, with highs around 13°C (55°F) and lows near 6°C (43°F). Sunshine clocks in at 6 hours/day, and rainfall is low. Enjoy peaceful walks around the Port Hercules, explore the Prince’s Palace, or take in sea views from the Oceanographic Museum.

Winter is great for luxury hotel deals and fewer crowds in Monte Carlo. Fly into nearby Nice, then take a quick 40-minute train ride. I strolled through the Monte Carlo casino district without the usual crowds of supercars and tourists, feeling like I had this glamorous playground almost entirely to myself.

• Read next: Must-See Monaco Attractions

14. Andalusia, Spain

Southern Spain’s Andalusia is sunny and vibrant in February, with highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows around 8°C (46°F). Cities like Seville, Granada, and Córdoba shine in cooler months, letting you explore the Alhambra, Mezquita, and flamenco taverns without the heat. Almond blossoms start blooming and the region’s food scene—from tapas to churros—is in full swing.

Fly into Seville, Málaga, or Granada with winter flights via Vueling, Ryanair, and Iberia. I spent an entire afternoon in the Alhambra gardens with hardly another visitor, watching orange trees bloom against Moorish arches while snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains provided a dramatic backdrop.

• Read next: Ronda Bucket List

15. The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is peaceful in February…warmer than most of Europe and far less touristy. Expect highs around 17°C (63°F) and lows near 9°C (48°F), with 6+ hours of sunshine. While it’s not beach weather for swimming, the cliffs at Ponta da Piedade, seaside trails in Lagos, and small villages like Tavira are stunning.

Winter is ideal for budget travelers, hikers, and foodies. Fly into Faro with winter routes from major European cities via Ryanair, Wizz Air, and British Airways. I hiked the dramatic clifftop trails at Ponta da Piedade completely alone, watching waves crash against golden limestone formations while seabirds soared overhead.

• Read next: Must-Do Activities in the Algarve
• You may also like: Once-in-a-Lifetime Destinations in the Algarve

16. Naples, Italy

Naples is gritty, lively, and deeply local in February. Highs reach 14°C (57°F), lows drop to 6°C (43°F), and you’ll get around 5 hours of sun. Carnival season brings color and sweets like chiacchiere, and you can explore Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the Naples Archaeological Museum without the crowds.

Pizza is at its best here, and the sea air adds to the city’s edge. Direct flights to Naples International Airport run year-round from London, Paris, Barcelona, and more via Ryanair, easyJet, and ITA Airways. I explored the ancient streets of Pompeii in peaceful winter silence, imagining daily life in this frozen-in-time city while Mount Vesuvius loomed dramatically in the crisp February air.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Italy
• You may also like: Fun & Unique Things to Do in Naples
• For more reading: Best Things to Do in Naples