Top 10: Best Places to Travel in February

And just like that, 2024 has come to an end and it’s time to start putting together travel plans in the new year. For us, February is one of the best months to enjoy a vacation—when you’re battling the post-holiday blues in January, it’s great to have a trip just around the corner to look forward to. What’s more, being the low season in lots of destinations, you’re also likely to enjoy slightly cheaper travel and accommodation expenses, making it all the sweeter! Today at Civitatis, we’re looking at the best places to travel in February 2025, so strap in!

1. Venice – Celebrate Carnival

Any time of the year is amazing, but visiting Venice in February is extra special for one reason in particular: Carnival. During this celebration, which is said to date back to the 12th century, the Floating City is rife with extravagant masked processions, parades, and private parties. This year, the famous festival will take place Delve into this cultural phenomenon, check out this Venetian Carnival tour, which delves into its medieval origins. Or, try a Venetian mask-making workshop! This year, the famous festival is set to take place from February 14th until March 4th, and about 3 million people are expected to descend upon the city.

Aside from Carnival activities, there’s much more on offer in this gorgeous city, largely defined by its extensive canal network, which can be best enjoyed from the water. Enjoy a gondola ride through the canals, and see the city’s iconic bridges, including the of Bridge of Sighs, is essential. Add a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace to complete your experience. As you walk around, you’ll come to realize that the city is a living museum, with art and culture at every turn.

Venice is one of the exceptions to the rule that vacationing is cheaper and more relaxed in February, but for us, the electric atmosphere and festivities make this added cost worthwhile.

2. Las Vegas – Sin City Without the Crowds

Welcome to Sin City! In February, you can enjoy Vegas at its very best. There are fewer crowds and generally lovely dry and sunny weather during the day, hovering around 59-66°F (15-19°C)—but be warned that the temperature drops at night! Moreover, being in the low season, flights and accommodation should be of good value.

When you get there, try your luck at the city’s world-famous casinos and year-round and star-studded entertainment. Mariah Carey for example currently has residency and is due to continue performing this coming February! It’s also a brilliant place to base yourself if you’re planning on visiting the Grand Canyon National Park—it’s a great time to visit, as crowds aren’t as heavy as they are during the Summer months. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, check out this Elvis Wedding in Las Vegas and seal your love with your significant other with the King of Rock’n’Roll as witness!

If gambling isn’t your thing, there’s much more to the city than that! Check out our blog: Top 11 Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling and also see our complete catalog of tours & experiences in Las Vegas.

3. The Maldives – Escape to Paradise

Fine white sand, crystal-clear waters, fantastic weather, and light crowds… If you want to relax in the shade of a palm tree in February, the Maldives might just be for you. At this time of year, you can enjoy some of the Maldive’s prime weather with temperatures of around 86°F (30°C), and no rain in sight.

Thanks to its crystal clear waters, Maldives is one of the world’s ultimate snorkeling destinations. Huraa Island is one of the top spots, thanks to its shallow waters, stunning seabed, and an incredible array of colorful sea creatures including parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish. Try snorkeling for yourself in Huraa!

If you love marine animals and coral reefs, but snorkeling isn’t for you… try this submarine tour in Maafushi, and see the Maldives’ incredible marine beauty from your seat!

4. New Orleans – Experience Mardi Gras

One of the most culturally rich cities in the US, New Orleans has an incredible spirit, cuisine, and range of attractions that will leave you wanting to stay for longer. The French Colonial style architecture and jazz (which you can enjoy on this New Orleans jazz tour) give the city a distinct flavor. However, far and away the best time to visit the city is during Mardi Gras which is mostly held in the two weeks before ‘Fat Tuesday’, which falls on March 4, 2025.

This holiday has its origins in French colonial traditions, first being celebrated in 1699. Over time, Mardi Gras has grown into a festivity that includes elaborate street parades, masked balls, and vibrant costumes. If you visit at this time of year, be sure to dress to fit the part—satin, sequins, features, wigs… anything goes! Learn more about the holiday at Mardi Gras World!

5. Cairo – Visit Egypt Without the Extreme Heat

If you’ve dreamt of visiting the Pyramids of Giza but are dreading the sweltering heat, February could be the perfect time for you to go. Among the must-see landmarks in Cairo are the Alabaster Mosque, dating back to the 19th century, the Grand Egyptian Museum, filled with statues, sarcophagi, and countless artifacts from the pharaohs, and the Khan el-Khalili market, one of the most famous bazaars in the Arab world. Discover many of these highlights on the Complete Cairo Tour, with entry tickets included.

What’s more, given the capital’s proximity to one of the Great Wonders of the Ancient World, you can’t miss the chance to enjoy a free tour of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. On top of that, Cairo is often the starting point for most organized trips exploring various parts of the country. If you’re planning to spend a week or more in this fascinating destination, here are some recommendations:

• Complete Egypt Tour, 8 days all-inclusive.
• Complete Egypt + Red Sea, 11 days all-inclusive.
• Complete Egypt + Lake Nasser, 11 days all-inclusive.

6. Rio de Janeiro – Explore ‘The Wonderful City’ during Carnaval

There’s no doubt about it: Rio de Janeiro Carnival is the biggest and most iconic in the world—with the aforementioned Venice coming in a close second! In Rio, celebrations start a little bit later than in Venice, and this year, they’ll take place starting from February 28.

Rio is one of Brazil’s largest cities and receives plenty of tourists year-round. In February, the weather is warm but pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 87°F (24°C to 31°C)—perfect conditions to explore the city and take a refreshing swim at the iconic Copacabana Beach.

While you can explore Rio on your own, you’d be better off booking this Rio de Janeiro Complete Tour, which includes transportation and entrance fees. It’s a great way to visit Christ the Redeemer (one of the New Seven Wonders of the World), take in the stunning views from Sugarloaf Mountain, or explore the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian.

7. Reikiavik – See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is another destination well worth exploring for a February getaway. While temperatures can be chilly, ranging from 28°F to 37°F (2°C to 3°C), it’s well worth putting up with the cold for what this city has in store…

Reykjavik is one of the world’s top spots for viewing the stunning Northern Lights. With Civitatis, you’ll find a number of activities that involve going to see the lights, including the standard Northern Lights Tour, as well as this Northern Lights & Laugarvatn Fontana Spa Tour.

The city also serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. We recommend you check out this Golden Circle Route tour. This route gives a wonderful view of Iceland’s varied landscape, passing by snow-covered geysers, waterfalls, and more all coming together to create a magical setting you’ll remember forever.

Once you’ve had enough of the cold it’s time to make your way to the Blue Lagoon, one of Europe’s most famous open-air spas. Open year-round, even in the heart of winter, immersing yourself in these hot springs is the perfect way to relax and warm up… all while enjoying Iceland’s otherworldly scenery.

8. Dubai – Skyscrapers and Desert Safaris

Let’s dive into some hot destinations for an offbeat February escape, starting with the United Arab Emirates! This remarkable country offers a perfect blend of modern cities, pristine beaches, and vast deserts. The bustling metropolis of Dubai, a city brimming with endless attractions and unforgettable experiences has in recent years become one of the world’s top-rated tourist destinations, and February is perhaps the best time to visit. With no rain and pleasant temperatures of 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), you’re free to chill out on the beach, visit famous landmarks, and walk around the city in comfort.

What’s more, from Dubai, you can also embark on a thrilling desert safari, or glide over golden dunes on a sandboard, and capping off the evening with a delicious dinner accompanied by mesmerizing dance performances. It’s like stepping into the enchanting world of A Thousand and One Nights!

9. Manila – Escape to the Phillipines in February

February is the perfect time to go to the Philippines, coinciding with the country’s coolest and driest season. Manila, the country’s capital, is an incredible, eclectic city with lots to see and do. Start in Intramuros, the 16th-century walled district that encapsulates Manila’s Spanish colonial past. The UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church stands as a testament to centuries of architectural and cultural transformation. Nearby, Casa Manila provides an immersive glimpse into the colonial-era lifestyle, meticulously recreating the world of the Filipino elite during Spanish rule. See it all for yourself on this Manila free walking tour.

Manila’s location makes it an exceptional base for adventure across the country. Volcanic landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches are just a day trip away. Whether you’re a history buff, food lover, or adventure seeker, Manila offers an unfiltered Philippine experience that goes far beyond typical tourist routes. Check out some brilliant day trip options from Manila below:

• Tagaytay Ridge Tour
• Villa Escudero Plantation Trip
• Pinatubo Volcano Excursion
• Day Trip to Pagsanjan Falls

10. Florida – Winter in the Sunshine State

Florida is the perfect destination to escape the cold and enjoy beaches, theme parks, nature, and vibrant cities. Start your adventure in Miami, where you can enjoy a free tour of Miami’s Downtown, or even grab a jet ski!

Don’t miss Orlando, a paradise for theme park enthusiasts. Spend a magical day at Disney World or embark on a creative adventure at LEGOLAND Florida. If theme parks aren’t your thing, don’t worry, we have you covered with this blog post talking about the best things to do in Orlando aside from theme parks.

Next, make your way to the Florida Keys, a stunning archipelago that includes Key West, the southernmost city in the United States. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, soak in an unforgettable sunset, and wrap up your trip by exploring Tampa or Naples, two of Florida’s hidden gems.

So, where are you headed? There are lots of great places to check out in February, but it’s good to be tactical so that you can get the most out of your trip, and save yourself some money! If you’re looking for things to do on your February adventure, be sure to check out more tours & experiences with Civitatis!