Welcome to February, the month the place 28 days pack extra punch than anticipated. It is a time for love, journey and a splash of winter magic. Whereas some are hunkered beneath blankets ready for the winter blues to thaw, the savvy amongst us know it is prime time for a getaway.
Should you’re on the lookout for ultimate climate circumstances — heat or snowy — February is the height season for each ski destinations and Caribbean resorts. Nevertheless it’s additionally offseason in most locations in Europe, if you happen to’re looking for offers.
Every of our chosen spots has its distinctive attraction and causes to go to, from balmy climates for the winter-weary to cozy nooks for individuals who relish the chilliness. We have even thrown in some off-the-beaten-path locales for individuals who suppose they’ve seen all of it.
Prepare for some critical wanderlust: These are the ten finest locations to go to in February.
Cape City
Swap winter chills for summer time thrills in Cape Town. In February, you may bask within the sunshine, journey a cable automotive up Desk Mountain for panoramic metropolis views, or discover the colourful V&A Waterfront, a bustling hub of retailers, eateries and reside leisure.
For the extra adventurous, drive to Cape Level to face the place two oceans collide. Meals lovers ought to head to the Old Biscuit Mill marketplace for farm-to-table bites and artisanal treats like mushroom kabobs and biltong (air-cured meats) from varied distributors.
And ensure to take a look at Boulders Seaside, the place penguins waddle the shore like they’re auditioning for a feel-good rom-com.
TPG tip: The Silo Resort is an architectural marvel with its convex glass home windows — impressed by grain kernels — that glow like a harbor lantern at evening. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, the lodge options daring interiors, a rooftop pool and unparalleled views of Desk Mountain and the harbor. Charges begin at $1,686 per evening in February.
Lencois Maranhenses Nationwide Park, Brazil
Brazil’s Lencois Maranhenses National Park is not your common desert — it is a coastal wonderland. Added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Listing in 2024 and spotlighted in TPG’s list of the top destinations for 2025, this spot proves that not all deserts are bone-dry. February falls smack in the midst of the wet season (January to June) when the magic occurs. Rainwater transforms the dunes right into a maze of crystal-clear lagoons, making it seem like somebody dropped an infinity pool catalog into the Sahara.
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These lagoons are prime for swimming, snapping surreal images or marveling at nature’s genius. The park can also be quieter this time of 12 months, so you will really feel such as you’ve stumbled right into a secret world. Simply do not forget to pack sturdy sandals and loads of sunscreen — you will want each to discover this sandy paradise turned aquatic dreamscape.
TPG tip: Pousada Rancho das Dunas, on the sting of the nationwide park, presents romantic doubles, spacious triples and splendid chalets that include personal plunge swimming pools. Charges begin at $52 per evening in February.
Rhine River
“European river cruises are actually supplied as early as February,” mentioned Erina Pindar, COO and managing accomplice of SmartFlyer, noting that the first season runs from Might to October. This new shoulder season is a good time to expertise Europe’s winter wonderland alongside the Rhine with fewer crowds and loads of heat drinks.
Image this: snow-dusted castles, tranquil vineyards and comfy wine taverns close to Strasbourg, the place French and German flavors mix like a high-quality Alsace wine.
Romantic vibes abound, too. Sip a steaming Rudesheimer espresso (brandy, chocolate flakes, whipped cream — want we are saying extra?) in an enthralling German village or wander hand-in-hand by Colmar’s cobblestone streets. February additionally means discounted airfare and unique wintery perks like quieter museums and intimate guided excursions.
TPG tip: AmaWaterway’s “Captivating Rhine” seven-night journey takes you thru the center of Europe, with stops in Amsterdam, Dusseldorf, Rudesheim and Strasbourg on the Rhine. Discover the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, a stunningly stunning stretch of the river. This cruise blends historical past, tradition and pure magnificence. Charges begin at $2,490 for a seven-night cruise in February.
South Caicos, Turks and Caicos
On Feb. 15, when American Airways begins its inaugural flights from Miami to South Caicos, it is going to be the one U.S. provider providing direct service from the U.S. to the island. The identical day, Marriott’s latest Luxurious Assortment property opens its doorways, bringing a brand new stage of class to this serene island with its turquoise waters and untouched, rugged magnificence.
Identified for its unspoiled magnificence, South Caicos is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers. Spend your days kayaking by mangroves, diving amongst vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or just enjoyable on the powdery white sands of Lengthy Seaside. The close by Admiral Cockburn Land and Sea National Park presents unbelievable snorkeling alternatives, whereas native eating places like The Cove serve up recent ceviche and the catch of the day.
TPG tip: Clearly, it is best to e-book a room on the new Marriott property — Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Turks & Caicos. Charges begin at $1,153 or 114,000 Marriott Bonvoy factors per evening in February.
New Orleans
Quite a bit is occurring in New Orleans this February. The Tremendous Bowl lands Feb. 9, smack in the midst of Mardi Gras season (from Jan. 6 to March 4). Hungry? Emeril Lagasse is again at it with a recent new restaurant, 34 Restaurant & Bar, which is an homage to his Portuguese heritage. The Caesars complicated can also be formally open — although we’re nonetheless ready to see if the Nobu Resort makes its grand entrance by then.
Past the large occasions, stroll by the historic French Quarter to take in reside jazz on the newly restored Preservation Hall, or seize a muffuletta at Central Grocery & Deli, which just lately reopened following a three-year closure as a consequence of Hurricane Ida injury.
TPG tip: Since February can also be Black Historical past Month, test in to the Dew Drop Inn, one of many metropolis’s latest Black-owned accommodations. This historic music venue the place Ray Charles, Little Richard and Fat Domino carried out just lately reopened with 17 individually adorned rooms and a pool membership. Charges begin at $109 per evening in February — or $93 per evening if you happen to can show you are a musician.
Mexico Metropolis
You’ll hit the cultural jackpot in Mexico City during this month. Artwork Week steals the highlight with Zona Maco, Latin America’s prime modern artwork honest, operating Feb. 5-9. Assume world-class galleries, edgy installations and sufficient artwork to fill your Instagram for weeks. With common temperatures round 77 levels, the climate is good for wandering Chapultepec Park, gawking at Diego Rivera’s epic murals or pretending you are a neighborhood whereas sipping espresso in Condesa’s tree-lined streets.
And do not miss Dia de la Candelaria on Feb. 2 — a celebration the place tamales are the principle occasion. Talking of meals, deal with your self to the magic at Pujol in Polanco or the unbeatable tuna tostadas at Contramar in Roma Norte. For drinks, Licoreria Limantour delivers world-class cocktails, whereas Handshake Speakeasy presents a swanky, hidden vibe.
TPG tip: Keep on the Mexico City Marriott Reforma Hotel, which is on the stylish Paseo de la Reforma. Charges begin at $132 or 24,000 Marriott Bonvoy factors per evening in February.
The Dolomites, Italy
With the 2026 Winter Olympics set to take over these peaks, now’s the time to experience the Dolomites earlier than they’re crawling with skilled athletes. After carving up the slopes, gasoline up at La Stua de Michil restaurant, a one-Michelin-starred gem in Corvara the place chef Simone Cantafio works magic with native elements. Ristorante 1908 in Soprabolzano is a should for jaw-dropping views paired with creative dishes. Do not miss iconic spots like Lago di Braies, a pristine turquoise lake the place you may snap Instagram-worthy images, or the Seceda Ridgeline, accessible by way of gondola from Ortisei.
TPG tip: Forestis Dolomites is a smooth, trendy lodge that mixes pine-and-glass towers with a historic chalet constructed by the Habsburgs in 1912. Charges begin at $764 per evening.
Roatan, Honduras
Attending to Roatan simply acquired simpler due to Delta Air Lines’ new daily nonstop flights from Atlanta and United Airways’ elevated each day service from Houston. Meaning extra time snorkeling the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and fewer hours wasted in airports throughout layovers.
This hidden gem of the Caribbean is a diver’s dream, with crystal-clear waters teeming with colourful fish and coral, however there’s lots above sea stage, too. Assume zip lining by lush jungle canopies, feasting on recent lobster, and sipping icy Salva Vida beers on powdery white seashores.
TPG tip: Keep on the Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort and Spa. Charges begin at $280 or 55,000 IHG One Rewards factors per evening in February.
Vietnam
Vietnam’s railways are getting a glow-up, making practice journey the right means to take in the nation’s ecologically various landscapes. Hop on The Vietage for Champagne, high-quality French-Vietnamese eating and even a shoulder therapeutic massage as you glide from Da Nang to Quy Nhon. Should you’re feeling bold, the brand new SJourney takes you on a leisurely seven-night journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, with stops to discover royal palaces in Hue and plush rice fields in Ninh Binh.
TPG tip: Keep on the Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection in Vietnam’s tallest constructing. Charges begin at $164 or 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy factors per evening in February.
Scotland
Within the coronary heart of winter, Scotland transforms right into a charming wonderland of music and lightweight. Catch the tail-end of Glasgow’s Celtic Connections pageant, operating from Jan. 16 to Feb. 2. This international musical extravaganza options greater than 300 occasions spanning genres from folks, rock and blues, intertwined with vigorous ceilidhs (conventional Scottish gatherings).
Aberdeen’s Spectra Festival of Light, from Feb. 6 to 9, casts a magical glow over the Granite Metropolis, which turns into a canvas for internationally acclaimed artists’ extraordinary gentle and sound installations.
You may even catch a pure gentle present: Northern Scotland shares the identical latitude as some components of Scandinavia, so it is doable to identify the northern lights if circumstances enable. (Contemplating 2025 is a “solar maximum,” there is a good likelihood!)
TPG tip: The Fife Arms is a boutique lodge in Cairngorms National Park, one in every of seven International Dark Sky Parks in the UK. Through the day, the lodge can prepare outings for snow sports activities like sledding or snowboarding; at evening, it presents darkish sky excursions. Charges begin at $375 per evening in February.
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