Where to go in February
Fancy a trip away this February? Here's where you need to go, whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a half-term adventure for the family.
Costa Rica
Bucharest
New Orleans
New Zealand
Treviso
Madeira
Singapore
Costa Rica
If you're looking for a week away on a sunny beach paradise with a clear conscience, Costa Rica is hard to beat. It's 27th on our Good Trip Index, with strong press freedoms and a good record on human rights and LGBTQI+ equality.
February is peak of the dry season, so for sunny blue skies and very little chance of rain this is the best month to head out and explore the beautiful coastlines and islands.
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Have a good tripBucharest | Romania
Eastern European city breaks are as popular as ever – hotels, food and drinks tend to be cheaper than their Western European counterparts, but there's no compromise of fascinating things to see and do.
The Romanian capital Bucharest is no exception. Loads of budget flights are heading there in 2024 and there's no shortage of historic sites, a grand old town, renowned galleries and museums and lively bars and restaurants. Bring your big coat and February will reward you with lesser crowds, so you can explore the top attractions in relative peace.
The top destinations for 2024
Haven't planned your big trip for 2024 yet? Here are our top picks for your next holiday.
Find out more...New Orleans | USA
February sees one of the most popular events in the US – Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans. Mardi Gras translates as 'fat Tuesday' in French, which reflects the origin of the festival as the last chance to eat rich and fatty food before lent.
The tradition was brought to the US by French Catholics and the celebrations are continued today in New Orleans thanks to its French heritage. During February there are float parades throughout the French Quarter organised by krewes – the most intricate floats are usually put together by Orpheus, Bacchus, and Endymion.
Where to celebrate Mardi Gras
Looking for one last blowout before Lent? Here are the best places around the world to celebrate Mardi Gras.
Find out more...New Zealand
If you're looking to escape the dreary British weather then head to New Zealand, which in February is enjoying the height of summer. The warm days and nights make it the perfect time to book a camper van and hit the open road. It's best to give yourself two weeks minimum to explore – the flight is long and you'll want to make the trip feel worth it.
There are two islands, North and South. The South is more mountainous and where you'll find popular sights like Mount Cook, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo and Christchurch. The North is home to the capital city, Auckland, hot springs at Rotorua and the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings films.
Our guide to Middle-earth
There's so much more to New Zealand than Hobbit-spotting – but while you're there...
Visit Middle-earthTreviso | Italy
Rather than heading to Venice for Valentine's, head to nearby Treviso – just as charming but not quite so busy. Plus it's a short train ride to Venice if you want to visit for the day, especially as the Venice Festival takes place during February.
Just north of the city you can visit the rolling hills that produce that most romantic of beverages – Prosecco. Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene has recently been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its unique viticulture.
Madeira | Portugal
Tired of your usual trip to the Canaries? Why not mix it up this February and give Madeira a go instead. This Portuguese island is located off the coast of Morocco and average temperatures in February can reach 19°C.
The island is volcanic, which means that although it may not have the sandiest of beaches there are plenty of interesting sites to explore, like the rugged Pico do Arieiro peak. Plus of course the island is known for its fortified wine, which you'll want to sample while you're there.
Where to go next
Swap your usual holiday destination for somewhere new and save yourself some money – even if you're skiing!
Change hassle-freeSingapore
Singapore is home to what's widely considered the world's best airport, Changi, meaning your holiday starts the moment you step off the plane. In fact you could probably spend more than a day exploring everything there is to do in the airport.
Once you step out of the airport the wonder continues, as Singapore is home to some incredibly interesting sites – like the futuristic Cloud Forest and the iconic Marina Bay resort. February is a great time to visit as it coincides with Chinese New Year and the end of monsoon season. This means less rain, less humidity and more sunshine.
Singapore Travel Guide
Here's everything you need to know about your trip to Singapore.
Hassle-free guide