With its unparalleled and distinguished historical and cultural legacy, Italy stands tall as one of the world’s top tourist hotspots. Italy has so much to offer, from ancient ruins to awe-inspiring architectural marvels. This allows Italy to cater to people of all kinds and in all different forms of weather too! Italy is not just a summer destination. You should experience Italy in February as well.
Whether you’re looking for a great place to ski, you want to walk along the countryside, or you just want to take in the historical sites, you simply can’t go wrong! And this is one of the more affordable times of the year to travel to Italy too!
In this guide, we share everything you need to know about traveling to Italy in February. You can discover the thrills, take in the sites, and relax during your holiday.
Get to know what to expect in terms of the season and how to plan your best trip!
Is February a Good Time to Visit Italy
In Italy, people consider February as an off-season, which means that it offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and a different experience from the peak season. Whether or not February is a good time to visit Italy depends on your travel preferences and priorities.
Benefits of Visiting Italy in February
The weather may not be as nice as in the summertime, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still have a great time.
In fact, there are some really great benefits to exploring Italy in February, which include:
- Fewer crowds
- Lower prices
- Cultural events
- Skiing opportunities
Since February falls into the off-season for most of Italy, that means you won’t have to wade through the heavy tourist crowds that plague the country in other parts of the year.
Those top tourist destinations and the famous cities in Italy will be far less crowded and enjoyable because you’re avoiding the peak season timeframes!
Thanks to this being the down season for areas that aren’t part of the ski regions, you can book your trip for cheaper than you might any other time of the year.
The exception to that is if you are going to the ski resorts, which are at their peak season this time of year.
Other places in Italy will be far more affordable, though.
In February, Italy has many different cultural events and festivities too. You can find romantic stays near Valentine’s Day, enjoyable carnivals and festivals in the warmer areas, and plenty of other activities to participate in.
If you’re a skier, this is the time for you! Some people prefer the warm weather of spring and summer, but if you come to Italy to ski, February is a fabulous time to visit!
Stay among the majestic Alps and have a blast in the snow. Take tons of pictures of the beautiful scenery, and have a blast!
Best Places in Italy in February
If you decide to visit Italy in February, there are several destinations that are worth considering:
Rome
Although February in Rome can be characterized by chilly and damp weather, it presents a superb opportunity to explore the city’s bountiful cultural riches unhindered by the usual bustling crowds.
Visitors can relish the freedom of leisurely exploring the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, and Roman Forum, all while indulging in the sumptuous local cuisine at traditional trattorias.
The Colosseum is perhaps one of the most visited places in Rome, and it’s absolutely grand! This building has stood tall for over two millennia. This has served as the site of gladiatorial contests and public spectacles and remains a captivating draw for millions of tourists annually.
Venice
Plan ahead if you want to come to Venice in February. This time of year, they have the famous Venice Carnival, which brings visitors from all over the world to enjoy a magical celebration.
Every part of Venice becomes part of the celebration, with glittering processions, masquerade balls, and street performances all around.
It’s a charming and enjoyable spectacle that you won’t want to miss, and it’s well worth the trip!
Tuscany
You will find that Tuscany has a reputation for being damp and chilly during February. That being said, you can still have a good time here with plenty of activities and adventures. Just bring your rain jacket!
Tuscany has really great choices for things like wine tasting, tasting local cuisine, and enjoying all of the charms of this small town location. Here you can find the best Tuscany villages to visit.
You can explore the medieval towns of Siena, San Gimignano, and Volterra and indulge in hearty Tuscan dishes like Ribollita (bread soup) and Bistecca alla Fiorentina (beefsteak).
If you are a fan of wine, then we highly recommend checking out these Tuscan wineries.
Florence
You won’t regret traveling to Florence in February. Their breathtaking art, inspiring architecture, and stunning Renaissance vibes bring you a unique experience.
Despite the colder climate during February, visitors can relish the freedom of unencumbered exploration of its renowned museums and galleries.
Taking a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Arno River or meandering through the quaint alleyways and charming streets of the city are also highly recommended.
Sicily
For visitors seeking more temperate climes, Sicily presents an ideal destination to visit in February. This charming island is renowned for its opulent past, breathtaking coastlines, and delectable cuisine.
Take the time to explore the storied archaeological sites of Agrigento, Siracusa, and Palermo.
You will also want to savor the mouthwatering local delicacies, such as arancini, cannoli, and granita.
Check out the top cities of Sicily to visit.
Milan
Milan is the fashion capital of Italy and is a must-see location if you love fashion. It’s a great place to go in February, and most of the activities or adventures will be indoors or in warm areas.
In February, they host Milan Fashion Week, one of the most attended fashion events globally. Fashion enthusiasts from all over the world come in for this annual event. If you plan a trip to Milan during fashion week, make sure to be prepared for higher prices and book early.
Besides the glamorous fashion shows, visitors can also delight in exploring the city’s resplendent architectural marvels and visiting some of its top-rated museums.
Such include the famed Last Supper painting by the great artist Leonardo da Vinci.
Weather in Italy in February
February is widely regarded as a month of heightened precipitation in Italy, where the amount of rainfall fluctuates between 20 to 40 mm depending on the geographic locale.
The northern cities of Italy, namely Milan, and Turin, are inclined to register more rainfall in comparison to their central and southern counterparts. This can account for as many as ten wet days per month.
In the northern enclaves, particularly in the mountainous regions like the Dolomites and the Alps, snowfall is a distinct possibility. During February, the ski resorts in these locales are fully operational. This allows ardent skiing aficionados to bask in the optimal skiing conditions of the year.
Notwithstanding, February also boasts of sunny and mild days, particularly in the central and southern regions of Italy. These regions are susceptible to receiving up to 10 hours of daylight, thereby rendering it a prime time to traverse the great outdoors and revel in the resplendent landscape.
How Cold is Italy in February?
The northern regions of Italy, including Milan, Turin, and Venice, typically experience chilly and damp conditions during February.
The temperatures are certainly chilly compared to other times of the year, with measurements that come in the right around 6°C (43°F) to 10°C (50°F).
At night, find ways to stay inside and stay warm while the temperatures drop lower to approximately 1°C (34°F) to 4°C (39°F). These regions can also witness snow and freezing rain, necessitating the inclusion of warm clothing and waterproof gear in your packing list.
The central regions of Italy, encompassing Rome, Florence, and Tuscany, tend to experience comparatively milder conditions during February than the northern regions.
While these areas are warmer than the North, they can be chilly and damp during February, with temps around 12°C (54°F) to 15°C (59°F). And those nighttime temperatures can stoop low, reaching 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F).
However, occasional cold snaps can occur, causing temperatures to plummet below freezing.
If you’re heading to Italy in February and want slightly warmer weather, the Southern regions have more temperate ratings. Locations like Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily are warmer than the majority of Italy this time of year, with temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) and 18°C (64°F).
You can still bask in the sunshine and adventure outside thanks to warmer temps and plenty of sun. It’s a great spot for outdoor travelers this time of year!
Start Your Spring in Italy
Italy is a seriously cool country overflowing with sweet historical and cultural spots, no wonder people from all over the world flock there.
February is the chill time of year, but it’s still well worth going. There are loads of pros to heading to Italy at this time, including fewer people, lower prices, and parties for Valentine’s Day and Carnivals.
When you’re stoked about planning your February vacation to Italy, you should check out top spots like Rome, Venice, Tuscany, Florence, Sicily, and Milan.
So, why not make Italy your February vacation spot and check out the sites and entertainment without battling the hectic crowds?
Previous month: Italy in January
Next month: Italy in March
FAQ
Is Rome too cold in February?
While Rome does have shorter and colder days than the rest of the year, you will find that most days reach a reasonable temperature. Spend the days outside romping about and then find indoor places to hang out when the temperatures drop at nighttime. But don't fret, chilly weather can be enjoyable for travelers looking to escape the heat. Just 'cause it's winter doesn't always mean blizzard conditions. And you probably won't be making any snowmen, as Rome ain't really a winter wonderland. Instead, cloudy skies and on-and-off rainfall are expected.
Is Amalfi Coast cold in February?
Down in Southern Italy lies the Amalfi Coast, where the weather is pretty Mediterranean. This location has warm temperatures all year long. The winters are milder, while the summers can get pretty hot! That being said, February can still be pretty chilly. Because there are fewer tourists, you can go see all the cool parts of town without all the usual commotion. Check out towns like Positano and Ravello, and don't forget to try the amazing local nosh.
Is February a good time to visit Italy for budget travelers?
February can be a good time to visit Italy for budget travelers. Flights and accommodations are often cheaper than during the peak tourist season in the summer, and there may be discounts on attractions and activities. You will find areas that have reduced hours or close completely during this low season, so be aware that you may have more limited choices in some areas.
What are the crowds like in Italy in February?
Compared to the peak tourist season in the summer, crowds in Italy in February are generally much smaller. While popular attractions may still have some visitors, you'll likely find shorter lines and fewer crowds overall. However, some popular ski resorts or winter destinations are still busy during school holidays, especially on weekends.
What should I know about Italian cuisine in February?
Italian cuisine varies by region, and February is a great time to try traditional winter dishes. In the north, hearty stews and soups made with local ingredients like polenta and game meats are popular. Pasta dishes with truffles or mushrooms are common in the central regions, while in the south, seafood dishes and hearty vegetable stews are popular. Additionally, many regions celebrate Carnevale with sweet pastries and fried foods, like frittelle and castagnole.