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Best Places to Visit in February

07/01/2026


February doesn’t have to mean grey skies and frozen toes. For UK travellers, February is the perfect time to escape winter and explore somewhere new. From winter sun and February half-term holidays to weekend breaks, cool-cations, and Valentine’s Day escapes, these are the very best places to visit in February 2026.

We’re kicking off this list with something a little different! Ready to trade your winter sun for a little more fun in 2026?

Cool-cations are one of the biggest travel trends for 2026, and February is peak season for embracing colder climates. Ski holidays remain a major draw, with the Alps offering snow-dusted scenery, world-class resorts and charming alpine villages. France, Italy and Switzerland are particularly popular with UK travellers wanting reliable snow conditions.

But beyond skiing and snowboarding, cool-cations are about enjoying winter itself. Snowy landscapes, crisp air, spa retreats and slow travel experiences are attracting travellers who want something different from traditional winter sun holidays.

Top Short-Haul Winter Sun Destinations in February

Close to home holidays remain hugely popular for UK travellers in February, with multiple destinations offering winter sun without long flights or jet lag.

The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are among the most reliable destinations to visit in February, offering year-round sunshine and comfortably warm temperatures just a short flight from the UK. Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote shine during winter, with golden beaches, volcanic landscapes and scenic coastal walks at their best. Can't decide which island is perfect for you? Why not visit them all on a Winter Sun Canary Island Cruise! Now that's what we call turning up the heat on your winter holiday. 

Morocco

Another short-haul destination growing in popularity for February holidays is Morocco. While Marrakech enchants with colourful souks, historic palaces and rooftop dining, Agadir offers a laid-back beach atmosphere and stylish resorts. Holidaying in February avoids the intense summer heat, making it one of the best months to enjoy Morocco’s culture, cuisine and desert-inspired landscapes. Plus with riads and affordable flights, you'll find the perfect pocket-friendly package.

Madeira & Portugal

Madeira and Portugal’s Algarve are ideal February destinations for travellers seeking gentle warmth and scenic beauty. The island of Madeira offers dramatic cliffs, lush gardens and peaceful levada walks, all better enjoyed in mild winter temperatures. Meanwhile, the family favourite Algarve feels calm and uncrowded in February, with golden beaches, charming towns and coastal trails bathed in soft sunshine. Perfect for a slower, more restorative winter escape.

Best Valentine’s Day Holidays

Love is in the air, and as every hopeless romantic knows, when you find ‘the one’, everything clicks into place... of course, by ‘the one’ we mean the perfect holiday.

Valentine’s Day in February is one of the most popular times of year for romantic travel, and 2026 is no different. Faraway destinations like Dubai, the Maldives, and Cape Verde are popular choices for Valentine’s Day holidays, offering a combination of luxury, winter sun, and unforgettable experiences.

For couples who prefer classic romantic city breaks, European favourites such as Paris, Florence, Venice, and Lisbon remain timeless choices. With fewer crowds, cosy cafes and beautiful architecture, February city breaks create the perfect setting for blossoming romantic travellers.

Best Faraway Destinations for February

Long-haul travel in February is all about guaranteed sunshine, and 2026 is no exception.

The Caribbean

The Caribbean remains one of the best destinations to visit in February, especially for UK travellers seeking winter sun. With warm temperatures, low humidity and minimal rainfall, February sits firmly within the Caribbean’s dry season, making it ideal for beach holidays. Barbados is a standout choice, offering a relaxed atmosphere, calm seas and a balance of luxury and local culture that works just as well for couples as it does for families. The Dominican Republic is equally popular in February, particularly for families, thanks to its excellent all-inclusive resorts, reliable sunshine and school-holiday appeal.

Egypt

Egypt’s Red Sea coast is a top February holiday choice, offering warm, sunny days without the extreme summer heat. With average temperatures sitting around 20°C, destinations such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are perfect for winter sun escapes. Especially for those travellers who look for excellent snorkelling, coral reefs and clear waters. A bonus? February also delivers outstanding value. With many high-quality all-inclusive resorts reducing prices for the shoulder season months, Egypt is a popular and affordable winter getaway compared to other long-haul destinations.

Goa, India

For travellers looking for something more adventurous, there’s no better place to have your Eat, Pray, Love moment than on the golden shores of Goa. This Indian gem is at its best in February, combining warm temperatures, blue skies and low humidity at the peak of its dry season. A surfing paradise with the boho vibe to match, enjoy Goa’s beaches, historic towns and laid-back coastal lifestyle without the intensity of the monsoon or extreme heat. February also brings lively markets, cultural festivals and buzzing nightlife, making Goa a top destination for travellers seeking a truly unforgettable winter escape.

Best Weekend City Breaks in February

Ok city lovers, we hear you... and we've got some last minute offers you won't want to miss! February is a great month for weekend breaks, especially for travellers looking to make the most of off-peak travel. European city breaks are particularly appealing at this time of year, with destinations like Lisbon, Porto and Seville offering mild temperatures, fewer crowds and plenty of cultural highlights. Sicily is also emerging as a popular city break destination, combining historic cities, local markets and excellent food.

Within the UK, February weekend breaks offer a different kind of charm. Cities such as York and Edinburgh feel especially atmospheric in winter, with historic streets, cosy pubs and seasonal events creating the perfect backdrop for a short escape. Did you know we also sell UK short breaks and stay-cations at Hays Travel? 

Stop waiting for the holiday countdown. Browse, book, and thank us later!

Our last minute holidays are just the ticket to your February fun. Whether you're dreaming of a short break or a faraway adventure, a beach escape or city break, snag a perfect holiday right now at an unbeatable price.