5 Best Places to Visit in February

Traveloka Team
20 Mar 2025 - 6 min read

February might be the shortest month, but it’s brimming with travel opportunities that will leave you breathless. Whether you're looking for vibrant festivals, snowy escapes, or sunny beaches, this month has something for everyone. From the iconic Carnival in Rio to the serene winter landscapes of Lapland, we’ve curated the ultimate list of destinations to inspire your next adventure. Read on to discover five spectacular places to visit in February!

1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Bursting with energy and color, Rio de Janeiro is the place to be in February. Home to the world-famous Carnival, the city comes alive with vibrant parades, infectious samba beats, and dazzling costumes that light up the streets. Picture warm summer days filled with celebration, as millions gather to experience this unforgettable spectacle. But Rio is more than just Carnival—don’t miss the iconic Christ the Redeemer or the golden sands of Copacabana and Ipanema. It’s a city where every moment feels like a celebration!

Where is it?

Rio de Janeiro lies along the southeastern coast of Brazil, surrounded by lush hills and the glittering Atlantic Ocean.

Where to Stay

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro: Luxurious beachfront hotel with stunning views.
Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana: Iconic hotel with elegant rooms and a rich history.
Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery: Boutique hotel in a charming neighborhood.

Things to Do

Witness the iconic Carnival parades at the Sambadrome.
Hike up to Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of the city.
Relax on the famous Copacabana Beach and enjoy caipirinhas at sunset.

2. Venice, Italy

February in Venice is pure magic. Picture this: enchanting canals, romance in the air, and the city aglow with Valentine’s Day charm. But the real showstopper? The Venice Carnival. Slip on a mask and step into a world of dazzling costumes, glamorous masquerade balls, and an atmosphere like no other. Plus, February offers the perfect mix of cooler weather and fewer crowds—making it the ideal time to experience Venice at its most enchanting.

Where is it?

Venice is located in northeastern Italy and is famously built on a series of canals, making it one of the world’s most unique cities.

Where to Stay

The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel: Historic palace with lavish décor and canal views.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Nani Venice: Opulent hotel near St. Mark’s Square.
Ca' Sagredo Hotel: Beautiful hotel in a historic palazzo on the Grand Canal.

Things to Do

Float through the canals in a traditional gondola ride.
Experience the magic of the Venice Carnival, including its famous masks.
Explore the art and history of St. Mark’s Basilica.

3. Quebec City, Canada

February brings the magic of winter to life in Quebec City with one unmissable event: the Quebec Winter Carnival! As one of the biggest and oldest winter festivals in the world, it’s packed with excitement—think stunning ice sculptures, lively parades, and the iconic Bonhomme Carnival mascot. The city becomes a dazzling snowy wonderland, with charming streets to explore and cosy spots to escape the cold. It’s a winter experience like no other!

Where is it?

Quebec City is situated in eastern Canada, along the St. Lawrence River, blending old-world European charm with Canadian hospitality.

Where to Stay

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: Landmark hotel with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
Hotel Manoir Victoria: Charming hotel in the heart of Old Quebec.
Les Lofts Charest - By Les Lofts Vieux-Quebec: Upscale hotel with modern amenities and historic charm.

Things to Do

Visit the bustling Quebec Winter Carnival.
Marvel at the stunning ice sculptures scattered around the city.
Wander the historic streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4. Maui, Hawaii, USA

February is the ultimate time for whale watching in Maui, as majestic humpback whales make their way to these warm, inviting waters. This Hawaiian paradise offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with stunning beaches, breathtaking scenic drives, and awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes. The dry, mild weather sets the stage for unforgettable outdoor adventures—whether you're hiking through lush trails, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply basking in the island's golden sunshine. Maui in February is paradise at its peak!

Where is it?

Maui is one of the Hawaiian Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean. It’s famed for its diverse landscapes, from beaches to lush rainforests.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Luxurious beachfront resort with exceptional service.
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort: Sprawling resort with pools, a spa, and ocean views.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: Elegant resort with stunning golf courses and oceanfront access.

Things to Do

Watch humpback whales on a whale-watching tour.
Drive the scenic Road to Hana.
Relax on Wailea Beach or go snorkeling at Molokini Crater.

5. Lapland, Finland

Dreaming of chasing the Northern Lights? February in Lapland is your chance to make it happen! This Arctic wonderland is a snowy paradise, offering unforgettable adventures like racing through the wilderness on a husky sled, exploring Santa’s Village, and sleeping under the stars in a cozy glass igloo. With long, dark nights and crisp, clear skies, the stage is perfectly set for witnessing the breathtaking magic of the aurora borealis. Don’t just imagine it—experience it!

Where is it?

Lapland covers the northernmost regions of Finland and is known for its breathtaking Arctic landscapes and untouched wilderness.

Where to Stay

Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara Chalets: Unique resort with glass igloos for Northern Lights viewing.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel: Modern hotel with cosy treehouse accommodations.
Santa's Hotel Santa Claus: Luxurious glass igloos with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Things to Do

Watch the spectacular Northern Lights from a glass igloo.
Go husky sledding through snowy trails.
Visit the famous Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.

Make February Unforgettable

February offers a wide range of destinations to suit every type of traveller—from the vibrant festivities of Brazil and Italy to the serene beauty of Quebec and Lapland, and the tropical paradise of Maui. Start planning your February escape today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Need help deciding where to go? Use Traveloka to find flights, accommodations, and activities!

In This Article

• 1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Where is it?
• Where to Stay
• Things to Do
• 2. Venice, Italy
• Where is it?
• Where to Stay
• Things to Do
• 3. Quebec City, Canada
• Where is it?
• Where to Stay
• Things to Do
• 4. Maui, Hawaii, USA
• Where is it?
• Where to Stay
• Things to Do
• 5. Lapland, Finland
• Where is it?
• Where to Stay
• Things to Do
• Make February Unforgettable
Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
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