Italy in February: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Average Temperatures in Rome, Italy: 55°F High • 39°F Low

In February, Italy is defined by cozy elegance, with crisp, often sunny days and a refreshing chill in the air. The cooler weather is perfect for exploring world-class museums and galleries without the heat and humidity of summer. This is the time to truly see the country’s magnificent "bones;” the intricate architecture and stunning landscapes, unadorned by summer foliage. The average temperature in Rome hovers between 55°F and 39°F, creating ideal conditions for long walks through historic streets, punctuated by the pleasure of a warm, rich caffè in a historic bar.

What to Expect

In February, the Italian experience varies dramatically by region, offering everything from the first hints of southern spring to the enchanting winter landscapes of the north.

• Southern Regions: In Sicily, February offers the first promise of spring. Feel the gentle warmth of the winter sun on your skin, a delightful contrast to the rest of Europe. The air begins to carry the sweet, delicate scent of almond blossoms and the great Greek temples of Agrigento stand in magnificent solitude against a bright blue winter sky.
• Central Regions: When you visit Rome and Florence, you will discover a tranquil and deeply cultural atmosphere. Feel the luxury of space as you gaze upon Renaissance masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery, with time and silence to truly appreciate them. In the early morning, hear your footsteps echo in a near-empty piazza and savor the rich, warming flavor of a traditional Tuscan bean soup after a day of discovery.
• Northern Regions: The winter mood is dramatic and enchanting in the Dolomites and Venice. Witness the breathtaking sight of snow-dusted peaks against a brilliant blue sky and feel the exhilarating rush of skiing fresh powder. In Venice, embrace the romance of a silent, misty morning, the sound of a lone boat motor carrying across the water, before warming up with a decadent hot chocolate on a Splendors of Italy 17-Day Tour.

With a quiet, romantic ambiance settling over the land, February is the perfect time to experience Italy's iconic destinations with an unmatched sense of intimacy and discovery. The off-season reveals unique cultural celebrations, from the world’s most famous Carnival to the first signs of spring.

Venice • Best Place for Carnival and Atmosphere

Experience the world’s most enchanting city as it transforms into a mysterious and fairy-tale stage for its legendary Carnival, a spectacle of masks, music, and mystery.

What to Expect

• Behold the surreal sight of elaborately costumed and masked figures gliding silently through misty, labyrinthine streets and across ancient bridges.
• Hear the festive sounds of classical music concerts held in historic palaces and churches, their melodies floating over the quiet canals.
• Feel the luxurious weight of a velvet cape and delight in the intricacy of a traditional mask at a private masquerade ball, stepping back in time for an unforgettable night on a Florence, Venice, and Milan Itinerary.

Sicily • Best Place for Great Weather

Discover an island basking in the mildest winter climate in Italy, where ancient wonders stand in peaceful solitude and the landscape awakens with the first blush of spring.

What to Expect

• Inhale the sweet, delicate fragrance of almond blossoms, as entire hillsides erupt in a sea of pink and white flowers during the annual festival.
• On a Highlights of Southern Italy and Sicily Tour, feel the gentle winter sun on your face as you explore the magnificent Greek temples of Agrigento, enjoying the dramatic ruins without the summer crowds.
• Taste the bright, zesty flavor of a freshly picked blood orange, a celebrated local crop that reaches its peak of sweetness in the winter months.

Rome • Best Place for Intimate Sightseeing

Explore the treasures of the Eternal City with a rare sense of peace and intimacy, allowing for a deeper and more personal connection with its epic history and art.

What to Expect

• Experience the awe of standing inside the Colosseum or the Pantheon on a quiet winter morning, feeling the immense weight of history without distraction.
• Enjoy a private, crowd-free tour of the Vatican Museums, allowing you to gaze upon the Sistine Chapel and other masterpieces in contemplative silence.
• Wander through the charming, ivy-clad streets of Trastevere on Zicasso’s Indulgent Rome to Venice Itinerary: Couple’s Getaway. Dip into a cozy trattoria for a plate of rich, warming cacio e pepe pasta.

The Dolomites • Best Place for Alpine Luxury

Retreat to a world-class winter destination, where majestic snow-covered peaks, thrilling ski runs, and sophisticated wellness sanctuaries offer the ultimate alpine escape.

What to Expect

• Feel the exhilarating rush of carving down a perfectly groomed ski slope in the vast Dolomiti Superski area, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Indulge in the sublime comfort of a five-star spa, soothing tired muscles in a heated outdoor pool while snowflakes gently fall around you.

Savor the gourmet Michelin-starred cuisine of the Alta Badia region on a Gastronomy Tour of Northern Italy. Enjoy exquisite dishes and fine wines by a roaring fireplace in a chic mountain lodge.

February in Italy is a month for unique and immersive experiences. Engage with vibrant traditions and indulge in the cozy pleasures of the winter season. The crisp weather invites you to celebrate at spectacular festivals, enjoy elegant alpine pursuits, and witness the very first signs of the coming spring. It's a season for creating rich, authentic memories.

Experience the Magic of Carnival in Venice

Immerse yourself in the world’s most famous pre-Lenten celebration, a tradition of masks, mystery, and revelry that has captivated imaginations for centuries.

What to Expect

• Attend an exclusive masquerade ball in a candlelit waterfront palace, dancing the night away in a scene straight out of a historical film.
• Watch the spectacular “Flight of the Angel,” an official Carnival event where an acrobat soars gracefully over the crowds in St. Mark’s Square.
• Take a private mask-making workshop on a From North to South Italy Tour: Rome, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast. Learn the ancient craft from a master artisan and create your own unique souvenir of this magical experience.

Indulge in Winter Sports and Wellness

Embrace the beauty of the Italian Alps, where world-class skiing and sophisticated spa culture combine for a perfect winter escape.

What to Expect

• Feel the crisp, cold air on your face as you glide along pristine cross-country ski trails through silent, snow-laden pine forests.
• Enjoy the Italian tradition of a multi-course lunch at a sun-drenched mountain hut, savoring hearty local specialties like Pizzoccheri alla Valtellinese with panoramic views.
• Rejuvenate your body and mind with a hay bath or other alpine wellness treatment, a unique and traditional way to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Savor the First Signs of Spring in Sicily

Witness the spectacular Almond Blossom Festival in the Valley of the Temples, a joyful celebration of nature’s reawakening against a backdrop of ancient history.

What to Expect

• Stand in awe before hillsides covered in a delicate blanket of pink and white blossoms, a stunning visual contrast to the golden stone of the Greek temples.
• Enjoy the festive atmosphere of local folk groups performing traditional music and dance as part of the week-long celebration.

On a Perfect Sicily Culinary Tour, taste a variety of delicious local sweets and pastries made from almonds, a tribute to the precious harvest and the island’s rich culinary traditions.

Italy in February is captivating. A romantic, intimate atmosphere is complemented by the unique thrill of Carnival and the beauty of the awakening landscape, all enjoyed without the peak-season crowds. Whether you wish to explore the wonders of ancient Rome in peace or immerse yourself in the alpine elegance of the Dolomites, you can create a journey that perfectly matches your preferences and travel dreams.

For more inspiration as you consider visiting the country in February, explore our Italy travel guide or start putting your plans in motion with ideas from our featured Italy tours and vacation packages. Our travel specialists are ready to assist you.