Destinations that tempt us for a short getaway in Europe in February.
A short getaway to Europe in February is an excellent choice to start the new year off right. Whether you have in mind a romantic Valentines escape or youre looking for a destination with standout events and festivities this month, Europe offers plenty of options to break away from the everyday and enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Furthermore, lighter tourist traffic in many popular destinations and better prices on accommodation and air tickets make traveling this month even more enjoyable. To give you ideas, weve prepared a list of 7 European destinations that are ideal for trips in February.
Paris, France
Valentines Day in Paris? It may sound a little cliché, but its worth experiencing at least once. Culinary indulgences and dazzling sights create an irresistible combination that makes the French capital one of the most romantic cities in the world. The Eiffel Tower aglow at night, the Louvre Museum, strolls in Montmartre, bistros, patisseries, and idyllic walks along the Seine are compelling reasons for a whirlwind romantic escape.
Florence, Italy
There are places you cant help but fall in love with at first sight. Florence is one of them. Built along the banks of the Arno River, the capital of Tuscany is undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Synonymous with the Renaissance, art, romance, and aesthetics, Florence is a vast and vibrant open-air museum. Its historic center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brims with unique masterpieces of art and architecture. Tuscanys carnival is yet another good reason to add Florence to your travel plans. The seaside town of Viareggio, about an hour from Florence, is an excellent choice for February, as its annual carnival is renowned for its spectacular parades and events.
Venice, Italy
Venice is a captivating destination in every season, but during its famed Carnival the atmosphere is enchanting. Let yourself be swept up by the energy and allure of the romantic floating city that is unlike any other place in the world. Each year at this time the city becomes a vast theatrical stage. Harlequins, doges, countesses, domino masks, satyrs, barons, marquises, and Casanovas dressed in traditional Venetian costumes mingle in the streets of Venice. It is the worlds longest-running carnival and has its roots in the 14th century, when citizens of all social classes celebrated in disguise the end of winter and the arrival of spring.
Budapest, Hungary
Embracing the imposing Danube, with Budas hills to the west and Pest to the east, Budapest is undoubtedly one of Europes most beautiful cities. And winter suits it perfectly. The iconic Hungarian Parliament building and the large slabs of ice drifting on the Danube make for a truly impressive sight, while grand cafés, wonderful museums, restaurants serving goulash, and the famed baths are ideal havens after wintry walks around the city. Dont miss a ride on Tram 2 along the banks of the Danube. This line passes by almost everything worth seeing in the city center.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenias capital is romantic whether in sunshine or snow. Built around the lush green banks of the Ljubljanica River, Ljubljana is a small city (one of Europes smallest capitals) with distinctive architecture, an engaging cultural and nightlife scene, well-tended parks, and an extensive network of pedestrian zones and bike lanes. The innovative Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik shaped the citys profile in the early 20th century, building impressive bridges (such as the famous Triple Bridge, which is a symbol of the city) and churches, blending neoclassical style with Art Deco.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is wonderful in every season. A trip in February, however, will give you the chance to savor the magic of the Austrian capital with fewer crowds. The charm of the old town, classical music concerts, museums and galleries, Viennese coffeehouses, and the sight of Schönbrunn Palace and St. Charles Church blanketed in snow all lend the city a magical dimension. A must-do is a visit to the Vienna State Opera. Throughout the year, impressive performances are staged that can satisfy even the most demanding art lovers.
Porto, Portugal
Portugals second-largest city is a romantic destination worth discovering. Porto will steal your heart with its architecture, rich cultural heritage, superb flavors, and world-famous wine. Spread along the mouth of the Douro River in the north of the country, about 3 hours by train from Lisbon, Porto is one of Europes oldest centers and has been on UNESCOs World Heritage list since 1996. Take your time enjoying walks by the river, discover Ribeira, the citys most beautiful and historic neighborhood, admire the old houses with pastel facades and painted azulejos tiles, and of course taste the renowned Port wine wherever you are.
