Escape the winter blues or embrace the chill with these ten incredible destinations, perfectly timed for an unforgettable trip.
By a Seasoned Travel Correspondent | Published: January 19, 2026
February. It’s a month that often gets a bad rap—short, cold, and stuck in the post-holiday, pre-spring slump. But for the savvy traveler, February is a golden opportunity. It’s a time of vibrant festivals, perfect weather in the Southern Hemisphere, and snow-dusted landscapes at their most magical. The crowds of summer are a distant memory, and the world feels a little more authentic.
As a travel writer who has spent years chasing the perfect moment in every corner of the globe, I’ve learned that timing is everything. With Valentine’s Day and a long Presidents’ Day weekend (Monday, February 16, 2026) on the horizon, this is the ideal time to plan a getaway. Forget the generic beach resort; let’s find a trip that truly resonates. Here are my top 10 destinations for February 2026, each chosen for a very specific, very compelling reason.
1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The unparalleled energy of Rio’s Carnival is a life-list experience.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
There is one reason that towers above all others: Carnival. In 2026, the main Sambadrome parades are set to explode with color and rhythm on Sunday, February 15th, and Monday, February 16th. This isn’t just a party; it’s the cultural heartbeat of Brazil made manifest. Beyond the main event, the entire city buzzes with free street parties, known as blocos, for weeks. The weather is hot and sunny, the perfect backdrop for days spent on Ipanema or Copacabana beach before diving into the electric nightlife.
What to Do and See
While the Sambadrome is a must-see spectacle (book tickets far in advance!), the real soul of Carnival is in the blocos. Follow the sounds of samba to neighborhood parties like “Cordão da Bola Preta” or the more bohemian “Carmelitas” in Santa Teresa. During the day, take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views, or visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Explore the Selarón Steps, a vibrant mosaic art installation that captures the city’s creative spirit.
Expert Insider Tip: Don’t get stuck in the tourist-heavy South Zone. Venture to a bloco in a neighborhood like Laranjeiras or Botafogo for a more local experience. And hydrate! Buy bottled water from street vendors constantly. For a break from the chaos, spend an afternoon at the serene Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden).
Good for: Festivals & Nightlife, Beach Lovers, Cultural Immersion
2. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto in winter offers serene beauty without the spring crowds.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
Everyone talks about Kyoto’s cherry blossoms, but I’ll let you in on a secret: February is quietly one of the best months to visit. The tourist hordes have yet to descend, granting you a rare, peaceful intimacy with the city’s ancient temples and gardens. The crisp, cold air makes a visit to a traditional onsen (hot spring) in nearby Kurama an almost spiritual experience. Most importantly, February is the season for plum blossoms (ume), which bloom a month before the cherries and are, in many ways, more deeply cherished in Japanese culture. Their sweet fragrance fills the air at temples like Kitano Tenmangu.
What to Do and See
Wander through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove when it’s hushed and mystical in the morning mist. Explore the thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, which are far less crowded this time of year. Attend a plum blossom festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, often held on February 25th. Warm up with a bowl of rich, flavorful ramen at a tiny shop in the Gion district, and keep an eye out for a geisha (or geiko, as they’re known in Kyoto) shuffling to an appointment.
Expert Insider Tip: Book a stay in a traditional ryokan (inn). The experience of sleeping on tatami mats, enjoying an elaborate multi-course kaiseki dinner, and wearing a yukata (cotton kimono) is unforgettable. Many have their own private baths, perfect for a cold February night.
Good for: Cultural Immersion, Serenity, Food & Drink
3. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
The uniquely American celebration of Mardi Gras in the heart of the French Quarter.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
For a domestic trip that feels a world away, nothing beats New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Fat Tuesday falls on February 17, 2026, and the two weeks leading up to it are a whirlwind of parades, music, and revelry. Unlike Rio’s ticketed events, the core of New Orleans Mardi Gras is the series of elaborate, free parades organized by “Krewes” that roll through different parts of the city. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for spending all day and night outside soaking in the atmosphere.
What to Do and See
Stake out a spot on St. Charles Avenue (Uptown) to watch the grand parades like Endymion and Bacchus—it’s more family-friendly than the chaos of Bourbon Street. Catch handfuls of beads and other “throws.” Spend your days exploring the historic French Quarter, listening to live jazz on Frenchmen Street, and indulging in the city’s legendary cuisine. A beignet and café au lait from Café du Monde is non-negotiable. Take a streetcar ride through the Garden District to admire the antebellum mansions.
Expert Insider Tip: The real magic happens away from Bourbon Street. Follow the locals to Frenchmen Street for authentic live music venues. Also, learn the parade schedules and routes in advance. A great spot to watch is on a corner, where the marching bands often stop to put on a show.
Good for: Festivals & Nightlife, Food & Drink, Live Music
4. Tromsø, Norway
Chase the ethereal Aurora Borealis in the Arctic Capital.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
If your idea of a perfect February involves leaning into winter, Tromsø is your destination. Located 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, it’s one of the best places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights. By February, the perpetual darkness of the polar night is receding, giving you a few hours of beautiful, soft daylight for activities, while still leaving long, dark nights for aurora hunting. This balance is what makes February the sweet spot.
What to Do and See
The main event is, of course, the aurora. Book a guided tour where experts will take you to areas with the clearest skies. During the day, embrace the Arctic lifestyle: go dog sledding across silent, snowy plateaus, take a whale-watching tour (humpbacks and orcas are often in the fjords this time of year), or learn about the indigenous Sámi culture and try reindeer sledding. The city itself is charming, with the striking Arctic Cathedral and excellent museums.
Expert Insider Tip: Don’t just stay in the city to see the lights; light pollution is a real factor. The best tours are small-group “chases” in a van, which have the flexibility to drive for hours to escape cloud cover. Dress in layers—merino wool base layers, an insulated mid-layer, and a wind/waterproof outer shell are essential.
Good for: Adventure, Natural Wonders, Winter Scenery
5. The Riviera Maya, Mexico
Beyond the beach: ancient ruins and magical cenotes await in the Riviera Maya.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
For a guaranteed dose of sunshine that’s just a short flight away, the Riviera Maya is a classic for a reason. February is arguably the best month to be here. The hurricane season is long gone, the oppressive humidity of summer hasn’t arrived, and the holiday crowds have thinned. You’re left with endless days of sunshine, temperatures in the low 80s, and bathtub-warm Caribbean water. It’s the perfect weather for exploring everything this diverse coastline has to offer.
What to Do and See
Of course, there are the world-class beaches of Tulum and Playa del Carmen. But the real magic lies beyond the sand. Rent a car and explore the freshwater swimming holes known as cenotes—Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos are spectacular. Visit the stunning cliffside Mayan ruins of Tulum at sunrise before the tour buses arrive, or venture inland to the grand pyramids of Chichén Itzá or the less-crowded Coba, where you can still climb the main pyramid. The food scene in Tulum has become world-class, with jungle-side restaurants offering incredible culinary experiences.
Expert Insider Tip: Skip the massive all-inclusive resorts in Cancún and opt for a boutique hotel in Tulum or a chic condo in Playa del Carmen. For the best cenote experience, go early on a weekday to have these magical places almost to yourself. And always have pesos on hand for entrance fees, as many smaller sites don’t take credit cards.
Good for: Beaches & Relaxation, History & Culture, Adventure
6. Venice, Italy
Mystery and elegance at the historic Carnevale di Venezia.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
While Rio and New Orleans are about exuberant revelry, Venice’s Carnival is a different beast entirely: it’s about mystery, history, and elegance. The Carnevale di Venezia, which will run until Fat Tuesday on February 17, 2026, transforms the city into a living masquerade ball. People in exquisite, often historically accurate, costumes pose silently in the fog-draped piazzas. Outside of the main Carnival hubs, the city is in its low season, meaning you can explore its labyrinthine streets and canals with a quiet, melancholic beauty that you’ll never find in the summer.
What to Do and See
The heart of the action is St. Mark’s Square, where you can see the daily costume parades. But the real joy is simply getting lost. Wander through the Dorsoduro or Cannaregio districts, far from the crowds. Take a traghetto (a standing-only gondola ferry) across the Grand Canal like a local. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for a dose of modern art. In the evening, warm up with a hot chocolate at a historic café or try cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of wine at a local bacaro.
Expert Insider Tip: You don’t need to spend a fortune on a costume to participate. Buy a simple, beautifully crafted mask from a local artisan (avoid the cheap plastic imports) and wear it as you explore. It’s the perfect souvenir and your ticket into the spirit of Carnival. Also, book a “secret itineraries” tour of the Doge’s Palace to see Casanova’s prison cell and the hidden passageways.
Good for: Festivals, Culture & History, Romance
7. Park City, Utah, USA
World-class skiing and “The Greatest Snow on Earth®” in Park City.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
For skiers and snowboarders, February is the holy grail. The snow base is deep and reliable, and Utah’s legendary light, dry powder is at its peak. Park City is exceptionally easy to get to, just a 35-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport. The Sundance Film Festival will have just wrapped up at the end of January, meaning the celebrity crowds have departed, and you might find better availability and slightly lower prices for lodging, especially in early February. The Presidents’ Day weekend is a popular time, so bookending a trip around it is a smart move.
What to Do and See
With two world-class resorts, Park City Mountain Resort (the largest in the U.S.) and the luxurious Deer Valley (skiers only), you have thousands of acres of terrain to explore. Park City Mountain is great for its variety and lively town base, while Deer Valley is known for its impeccable grooming, five-star service, and gourmet on-mountain dining. Beyond skiing, you can explore the historic Main Street with its silver mining-era architecture, now home to art galleries, boutiques, and excellent restaurants. Or, for a unique thrill, try the bobsled experience at the Utah Olympic Park.
Expert Insider Tip: Take advantage of the free, efficient bus system to get between the resorts and Main Street—parking can be difficult and expensive. To save money, ski at Park City Mountain and then treat yourself to an upscale après-ski or dinner experience at one of Deer Valley’s renowned lodges, like the St. Regis, which you can access via a funicular.
Good for: Winter Sports, Mountain Scenery, Luxury
8. South Island, New Zealand
Summer adventures in the epic landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
Flip winter on its head and fly south—way south. February is the height of summer in New Zealand, offering long, warm, and relatively stable weather, perfect for the outdoor adventures the South Island is famous for. The school holidays are over, so it’s less crowded than January. This is the time to embark on that epic road trip you’ve always dreamed of, with landscapes that shift from glacial valleys and turquoise lakes to lush rainforests and dramatic coastlines.
What to Do and See
The itinerary is a highlight reel of natural wonders. Base yourself in Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World,” for bungee jumping, jet boating, and hiking. Take a scenic cruise or kayak trip through the majestic Milford Sound or the less-crowded Doubtful Sound. Hike a section of one of the “Great Walks,” like the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Marvel at the impossibly blue Lake Pukaki with Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country’s tallest peak, as a backdrop. Explore the glaciers of the West Coast, like Franz Josef and Fox.
Expert Insider Tip: Rent a campervan. It’s the quintessential Kiwi way to travel and gives you incredible freedom. You can wake up to a million-dollar view one day and be in a different national park the next. Be sure to book campsites, especially in popular areas like Fiordland, well in advance, as they fill up even in February.
Good for: Adventure, Road Trips, Natural Wonders, Hiking
9. Siem Reap, Cambodia
The awe-inspiring temples of Angkor in their best light.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
Visiting the temples of Angkor is a profound experience, but it can be grueling in the wrong weather. February is the absolute sweet spot. It’s firmly in the dry season, so you’ll have blue skies and virtually no rain. More importantly, the intense, draining heat and humidity of March and April have not yet set in. The temperatures are warm but manageable, allowing you to explore the vast temple complexes for hours without wilting. The rice paddies are still relatively green, providing a beautiful contrast to the ancient stone.
What to Do and See
The main draw is the Angkor Archaeological Park. Dedicate at least three days. Of course, you must see the sunrise over Angkor Wat. But don’t stop there. Explore the enigmatic stone faces of Bayon temple in Angkor Thom. Discover Ta Prohm, where giant tree roots have reclaimed the temple (the “Tomb Raider” temple). For a more intimate experience, rent a tuk-tuk and venture out to the beautifully preserved, pink-hued Banteay Srei or the sprawling, jungle-clad Preah Khan.
Expert Insider Tip: Beat the crowds by visiting the temples in reverse. While everyone else is at Angkor Wat for sunrise, start your day at Ta Prohm, then head to Angkor Thom. Visit Angkor Wat in the late afternoon, when the tour groups have left and the setting sun bathes the stone in a warm, golden light. It’s a much more magical experience.
Good for: History & Culture, Bucket List, Value Travel
10. Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Volcanic landscapes, eternal spring, and a world-class Carnival in Tenerife.
Why February 2026 is the Perfect Time
Want a European escape that offers warmth, spectacle, and incredible natural diversity? Look no further than Tenerife. Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” it boasts comfortable temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s in February—a perfect respite from winter back home. But the real draw is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, considered second only to Rio’s in scale and spectacle. The main events, including the Grand Parade (Coso Apoteosis), will take place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday (February 18, 2026), making it a perfect overlap with the other Carnivals on this list, but with a distinct Spanish flavor.
What to Do and See
The island’s diversity is staggering. One day you can be partying at Carnival in the capital, Santa Cruz. The next, you can be driving through the clouds into the otherworldly volcanic landscape of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take the cable car up Mount Teide (Spain’s highest peak) for incredible views above the cloud line. Hike through the lush, ancient laurel forests of Anaga Rural Park in the north. Relax on the golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas or the dramatic black sand beaches in the south.
Expert Insider Tip: Rent a car. It’s the only way to truly appreciate the island’s “mini-continent” diversity. You can drive from sun-drenched southern resorts to the misty, green north and up into the alpine-like volcanic park all in one day. Don’t miss a chance to swim in the natural rock pools at Garachico.
Good for: Festivals, Natural Wonders, Outdoor Activities, Warm Weather
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, find a moment of quiet contemplation, hit the slopes, or simply feel the sun on your face, February 2026 is brimming with potential. The key is to choose a destination that aligns with the experience you’re craving. So start planning, book that flight, and turn this short, often-forgotten month into the most memorable one of the year.
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