Are you still convinced that February is a transitional period between the Christmas feasts and the festive celebrations of Carnevale? Considering all the factors, it’s much more suitable for a vacation than you think. For example, prices are usually affordable, and it’s also the month of Saint Valentine, the festival of lovers…
Italy has many solutions, and they’re within reach of everyone. The offer is varied and includes romantic cities and historic villages, without forgetting the numerous ski resorts scattered along the boot. Here are some suggestions for deciding where to go on vacation in February in Italy.
1. Livigno, Lombardy – Northern Italy
Livigno is a Valtelline town perfect for those who love skiing. It’s located at the border with Switzerland and will allow you to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery. You can spend long days practicing various activities on the snow, from adrenaline-packed descents to acrobatic jumps, but also relax in a spa.
Livigno is famous for its traditional Valtelline cuisine, characterized by hearty dishes. Some of its most famous dishes include pizzoccheri (tagliatelle made from wheat and emmer, served with verza, cheese, and potatoes); or taroz (a special potato puree, beans, and fagiolini, served with butter and local cheese).
- Type of vacation: Winter sports
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €60.00 per room
2. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto – Northern Italy
Another perfect destination for a winter vacation is Cortina d’Ampezzo, located in the Veneto region.
Cortina d’Ampezzo was the setting for the first historic “cinepanettone” movie, “Vacanze di Natale” (1983), which created a comedy film genre that marked its history.
The location is characterized by lakes and vast wooded areas. It’s home to some of the most famous ski resorts in the country, appreciated especially by VIPs from the Italian entertainment industry.
- Type of vacation: Winter sports
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €55.00 per room
3. Milan, Lombardy – Northern Italy
Milan is an excellent destination for a brief vacation or weekend. It’s known as one of the capitals of fashion worldwide, but its main attraction is its cultural offerings.
Must-visit attractions include the Duomo and the terraces that offer stunning views, so make sure to buy tickets in advance. Book a tour at the Cenacolo Vinciano to get up close to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting “The Last Supper”, as well as the Cimitero Monumentale and the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana.
- Type of vacation: Cultural city break
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €48.00 per room
4. Torino, Piedmont – Northern Italy
Torino is one of the oldest cities in Italy, with an incredible historical and cultural value.
It’s a perfect destination for a visit during winter due to its extensive museum offer. From the Egyptian Museum to the Cinema Museum at Mole Antonelliana, passing through the Automobile Museum, which is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and families with children.
But it doesn’t end there! For centuries Torino was the seat of the powerful Savoy dynasty, determined to make its “capital” beautiful like Paris and Vienna. That’s why you can still admire stunning palaces in the city and nearby areas.
Consider booking the Torino + Piemonte Card beforehand, a tourist pass that offers free or discounted entry to most cultural attractions.
- Type of vacation: Cultural city break
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €50.00 per room
5. Terme di Saturnia, Tuscany – Central Italy
If cold temperatures make you feel stiff, what you need is to relax cocooned in the warm thermal waters of Saturnia.
From Saturnia’s hot springs, water flows at a constant temperature of 37.5°C and you can choose among three different complexes: the paid Thermal Park, the free Cascate del Mulino (falls), or the Spa & Golf Resort, where you can enjoy wellness services as well as have fun on the golf course.
If the weather is favorable and you’d like to visit nearby towns, you can stop by Pitigliano, Sovana, and Montemerano.
- Type of vacation: Weekend relaxation
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €55.00 per room
6. Terni and other villages of Umbria – Central Italy
Umbria has some of the most charming villages in Italy, capable of surprising for their simplicity but also for the abundance of unique attractions.
And one of these that does exceptionally well in February is Terni, which is the birthplace of Saint Valentine. Every year on February 14th, a fascinating fair is held to celebrate him, attracting couples and families alike.
But don’t miss other villages nearby, such as Assisi, Gubbio, and Orvieto, all less than an hour’s drive from Terni.
Art, history, and culture intertwine with local traditions that shouldn’t be missed. Additionally, Umbria is a romantic location perfect for a couples’ vacation.
- Type of vacation: Weekend relaxation-romantic, village stays
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €44.00 per room
7. Viareggio and Pisa, Tuscany – Central Italy
February often coincides with one of the most celebrated pagan festivals, Carnevale. For this reason, you might want to consider a brief stay in Viareggio, known for its spectacular Carnevale celebrations.
Viareggio’s Carnevale is one of the most important in Italy and will make you laugh with its elaborate allegorical floats and festive masquerade parties.
But don’t forget that Viraggio is just 30 minutes’ drive away from Pisa… so why not take advantage of it to admire this stunning city, famous for its Piazza dei Miracoli (Miracle Square) and the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Prepare yourself to be amazed by the beauty of Piazza dei Miracoli with its actual leaning tower, which has been a world-famous icon ever since.
- Type of vacation: Weekend relaxation, cultural city break
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €55.00 per room
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8. Gradara and Pesaro, Marche – Central Italy
Don’t you remember Paolo e Francesca’s love story told by Dante in The Divine Comedy?
You should definitely visit Gradara, a charming village in the Marches that made this eternal love story its backdrop.
In particular, on February 14th, an event called “Gradara d’amare” is organized, which fills the town’s streets with couples in love and features exhibitions, shows, and various activities.
Gradara is just 18 minutes’ drive away from Pesaro, a seaside city that has a unique charm even outside of peak season. It’s also known as the city of music, where Gioacchino Rossini was born; you can visit his birthplace, the Teatro Rossini (Rossini Theater), and the Conservatory, one of Italy’s most prestigious institutions.
- Type of vacation: Weekend relaxation, cultural city break
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €55.00 per room
9. Parco dell’Etna (Catania), Sicily – Southern Italy
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ski on Europe’s most active volcano? The Parco dell’Etna is a fantastic destination where you can enjoy a week of winter sports, hiking excursions, and activities for young people and families, along with visits to small towns that are rich in cultural gastronomy and an unparalleled natural heritage.
One of the best ski resorts in the park is Nicolosi, offering about 6 km of slopes and 5 lifts.
And don’t miss Acireale’s Carnevale, one of the most beautiful festivals in Italy, as well as its long history (making it one of the oldest).
Book a hotel or B&B starting from €60.00 per room to enjoy your stay at Parco dell’Etna.
- Type of vacation: Winter sports
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €60.00 per room
10. Parco Nazionale della Sila, Calabria – Southern Italy
The area of the National Park of Sila covers approximately 74,000 hectares on the Calabrian alpine plateaus, extending to mountains like Pollino and Aspromonte, as well as the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts.
In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty, which spans all directions, the park boasts a rich cultural heritage preserved in ancient villages.
The highest peaks of the park are Monte Botte Donato (1928 m) and Monte Gallone (1764 m). The national park is open to visitors throughout the year with hiking trails and bike paths that introduce you to the landscapes, history, and inhabitants of these places. Even during winter, this precious natural heritage has much to offer.
The park offers 24 km of slopes served by five lifts among its most appreciated stations: Lorica (a fraction of San Giovanni in Fiore).
Book a hotel or B&B starting from €51.00 per room to enjoy your stay in Parco Nazionale della Sila.
- Type of vacation: Winter sports
- Accommodation prices: Hotel and B&Bs starting at €51.00 per room
Conclusion
February is the perfect time to discover Italy’s hidden gems, with affordable prices, romantic atmosphere, and a plethora of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for winter sports, cultural city breaks, or weekend relaxation, there’s something for everyone in this incredible country.
So why wait? Book your trip to Italy today and experience the beauty, history, and romance that awaits you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is February a good time to visit Italy?
A: Yes, February is an excellent month to visit Italy. The weather is generally mild, prices are affordable, and there are many festivals and events to enjoy.
Q: What’s the best ski resort in Italy for beginners?
A: The best ski resorts for beginners in Italy are Livigno (Lombardy), Cortina d’Ampezzo (Veneto), and Torino (Piedmont). They offer gentle slopes, modern lifts, and a range of rentals and lessons.
Q: Can I visit the Colosseum in Rome during February?
A: Yes, you can visit the Colosseum in Rome during February. However, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, as crowds tend to be smaller during this time.
Q: What are some popular festivals and events in Italy during February?
A: Some popular festivals and events in Italy during February include Carnevale di Viareggio (Tuscany), Gradara d’amare (Marche), and the Festival of Saint Valentine (Umbria).
Q: Can I ski on Mount Vesuvius in Naples?
A: No, Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano and not suitable for skiing.
Q: What are some must-see attractions in Florence during February?
A: Some must-see attractions in Florence during February include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and Ponte Vecchio. It’s also a great time to visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David.
Q: Can I hike in the Dolomites during February?
A: Yes, you can hike in the Dolomites during February. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow, and make sure to check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.
Q: What are some popular ski resorts in Italy for families?
A: Some popular ski resorts in Italy for families include Cortina d’Ampezzo (Veneto), Livigno (Lombardy), and Bardonecchia (Piedmont). They offer a range of amenities, including childcare services, rental equipment, and kids’ programs.
