15 Warmest Places in Europe in February for Winter Sunshine

Warmest places in Europe in February

Looking for the warmest places in Europe in winter? February is one of the bleakest months of them all (although January and March are pretty tough too!) To help, we’ve put together some of the best warm places in Europe in February to help you plan some escapes to the sunshine!

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Where are the warmest places in Europe in February?

Need some winter sunshine?

I know exactly how you feel. I live in the UK and it is COLD and miserable in February!!

Still, Winter sun in Europe can often be hit or miss. Sometimes places like Spain and Portugal are AMAZING- often the hottest places in Europe in February. But other times… well, the weather gods don’t always get the memo.

Still, here are some places which are (almost!) guaranteed to provide some winter sun and are definitely the warmest places Europe in February.

There’s a pretty good chance they’ll also be warm in January and March too, but apparently, February is the month when we all crave some sunshine! (It’s also when school half term is too!)

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The warmest place in Europe in February – pick a European Island!

What I find really interesting is that most of these places are islands.

I should probably have paid better attention in geography, but I have no idea if they’re warm BECAUSE they’re islands- or because they happen to be a little closer to the equator than other places in mainland Europe. 

Sadly, many of these places are not easily reached on a road trip around Europe – but there’s nothing to say you can’t park up your car or camper and fly off for a few days to some of the best islands in Europe! 


Menorca, Spain – one of the hottest places in Europe in February!

Sailboats in  the water and along the rugged coast of Menorca Spain.
Menorca Spain- one of the warmest places in Europe in February, (and January and March!)

Recommended by Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Often overshadowed by its big sister Mallorca, the Balearic Island of Menorca is still somewhat of a hidden gem in Europe, and even more so in the winter months.

How warm does it get in February?

Benefitting from a mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful winter skies, and a lush landscape, it’s a great place to escape the winter blues and is easily one of hottest places in Europe in February.

It also doesn’t rain a lot in Menorca at any time of the year, but in the cooler months, December and January are typically wetter than February, which sees around 10.5 daylight hours and an average temperature of 15 degrees.

The winds will whip away any lingering clouds, and the island will be bathed under blue skies.

It may be one of the Warmest Places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

Some popular winter activities include:

  • discovering the island’s pristine secret beaches, which will be wonderfully deserted in February.
  • walking the incredible Camí de Cavalls  – an ancient track that circles the island and provides an incredible way to discover the island’s coastline and history.
  • Sampling gin  – the island’s tipple of choice – at a local distillery.
  • Or visiting the island’s archaeological ruins – Menorca is home to an impressive 1,500 megalithic sites which date back to the bronze age and are fascinating to explore.

By visiting Menorca in February, you’ll also benefit from seeing the island in its most authentic state. Even though it’s not as popular as some of the other islands in the Mediterranean, it still gets busy in the summer months when population numbers swell.

In winter,  cities will be much quieter and you’ll benefit from off-season prices too, although your accommodation options won’t be as plentiful.

But if you want to stay on the mainland of Europe, then you can also check out 7 of the warmest places in mainland Spain in winter.


Gran Canaria- one of the hottest places in Europe in March too!

Looking out at the mountainous coast of Gran Canaria!
Gran Canaria- one of the hottest places in Europe in February, January and March

Home to some of the best weather in Europe in March and February, he Island of Gran Canaria is the ideal destination to go to get some sunshine in Europe.

Although the Canary Islands are west of Africa, they still belong to Europe, are part of Spain, and are easily some of the best islands in Europe.

There are daily flights from all over Europe to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the winter, and it’s a popular escape for northern Europeans who want to get some sunshine. 

How warm does it get in February?

February is often cited as the best time to visit this area of Europe. The average temperature in Gran Canaria during winter is about 25-30 degrees in the South of the island.

In Las Palmas, temperatures will be around 15 degrees. Most tourists go to the southern part and it will be between 20-25 degrees in the water depending on which beach. 

It may be one of the Warmest Places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

One of the best things to do in Gran Canaria is to explore the old town in Las Palmas, known as Vegueta. This is also where you can find the same house that Christopher Colombus lived in for some time in between his voyages!

Some of the best beaches in Gran Canaria are Anfi Beach and Playa de Amadores along with Puerto Rico beach, which are all located in the south.

Las Canteras in Las Palmas is consistently ranked as one of the best city beaches in the world and it’s known for its great surfing. (While you’re there and working on your tan, here are some on the beach quotes for you to use on Instagram.) 

Visitors to Gran Canaria can also go hiking in the valleys which are full in bloom with plenty of wild fruits growing in the orchards and plantations. The Fataga Valley is one of the most popular hikes. 

Thanks to Christine from Christine Abroad for recommending Gran Canaria as one of the hottest places to visit in Europe in February!

Want to combine a trip somewhere warm with somewhere cold? Why not hire a motorhome and go motorhome skiing/ ski camping?


Tenerife- perfect winter sun in Europe destination

An aerial view of the coast of Tenerife and the beautiful beaches you'll find there.
Tenerife- one of the hottest islands in Europe in Winter

Recommended by Michelle from Greedy Gourmet

Tenerife is the place to be when it comes to catching some winter sunshine in Europe in February. It may not be the most beautiful island in the world– but it’s got a lot going for it, especially since it’s one of the warmest places in Europe in February.

It’s the largest of the Spanish Canary Islands. It’s easy to get to from most places in Europe and the flights are relatively inexpensive, especially around winter.

You’ll also find many sandy beaches on the island with stunning ocean views and cliff scenery.

How warm does it get in February?

The island maintains pleasant temperatures all year round, making it one of the best winter destinations in Europe.

If you go there anytime from November to February, you’ll find that the temperature always averages above 20 Celsius.

It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

The island of Tenerife is known for its dormant volcano called Mount Teide, which funnily enough is the island’s highest peak.

Hence, one of the best things to do on the island is to go take a hike at the Teide National Park. There you’ll experience breath-taking views of Mount Teide as well as Pico Viejo views.

Next, if you’ve got kids (or enthusiastic adults!), you should definitely visit the famous Siam Park. It is one of the BEST water parks in Europe, known for its Siamese-Thai theme. There you’ll find all types of rides: gentle, thrill rides, lazy rivers, even rides suitable for toddlers.

You also shouldn’t miss out on visiting Loro Park, which is a 13.5-hectare zoo. It’s home to a vast variety of animals and different plant species. It’s also a wonderful place to visit if you in Tenerife with your children.

But there are also plenty of water sports on offer in Tenerife, even in February- or just relax by the pool and enjoy some sunshine!

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    Sardinia- one of the hottest places in Europe in January

    The beautiful rock formations near the beaches of Sardinia.
    Sardinia- beautiful place for sunshine in Europe in February

    Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across the World

    Not many places in Europe can beat Sardinia in terms of winter sunshine. It’s also got some of the best beaches in Europe- just look at the colour of that water.

    How warm is it in February?

    Despite the fact that days are much shorter compared to the spring and summer, Sardinia still gets a good deal of sun and (especially on the coast) very mild temperatures, with places like Cagliari averaging 15 degrees Celsius during the day, and peaking 18 and even over 20 on very good days.

    The sea can get chilly in winter- it is the Mediterranean after all- but it should still be warm enough to sunbathe if you don’t fancy a paddle!

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    The best time to visit Sardinia in the winter is February. That’s when all Carnival celebrations are taking place.

    The mountain villages of Gennargentu and Barbagia celebrate their traditions with parades in local costumes which are quite unique – Mamoiada is the most famous one.

    Yet, for an adrenaline-filled Carnival make sure to head to Oristano – one of Sardinia’s main cities – for Sartiglia. This consists of a series of horse parades and shows with horsemen dressed in traditional costumes and wearing masks.

    The highlight is the race to catch a star hanging at the centre of the street with a spear.

    Other unmissable things to do in Sardinia in the winter include

    • visiting the many archeological sites – Su Nuraxi of Barumini is the most obvious that comes to mind, but Tharros on the west coast is another must-see;
    • going wine and food tasting – Sardinia is famous for its fantastic wines;
    • visiting the beautiful cities such as Cagliari, Alghero, Bosa and even Nuoro, where you’ll find an interesting ethnographic museum, perfect to learn more about the history and culture of the island.

    Lanzarote – one of the hottest places in Europe in February

    The beautiful sandy beaches of Lanzarote.
    Lanzarote- one of the hottest places in Europe in February

    Recommended by Claire from ZigZag on Earth

    Lanzarote is a brilliant destination for winter sun in February- only 3-5 hours away by plane from the main capital cities of Western Europe.

    So you could quickly be lying on the beach or walking around a volcano under the intense blue sky. Tempting, isn’t it?

    If you fancy sunbathing, some of the best beaches in Lanzarote are:

    • Papagayo on the South shore
    • Famara beach with high cliffs (especially at sunset)
    • the beaches of La Graciosa island, North of Lanzarote.

    How warm is it in February?

    During the whole European wintertime, you can expect daytime temperatures around 70°F / 21°C. The only inconvenience is sometimes the wind which comes from Africa. But otherwise, it offers great weather all winter long.

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    Lanzarote is not a beach-only destination! Some of the best things to do in Lanzarote are:

    • The tour of the magnificent Timanfaya National Park, with incredible volcanic landscapes where flora has hardly started recovering
    • The exploration of the lava tubes where the white structures created by artist César Manrique contrast with the dark rock,
    • Hiking all around the volcanoes on the island, particularly Montana Cuervo
    • Tasting the wines and learning how the grapes manage to grow despite the lack of rain!!!

    Malta – another great Winter Sun Europe destination

    The rugged coast and blue waters of Malta.
    Malta- Winter Sun in Europe in February

    Recommended by Dominika from Sunday in Wonderland

    Malta is a perfect European destination in winter- and visiting in February is the best time to see this beautiful island without any crowds!

    How warm is it in February?

    From December to March, the average temperature is around 13-14 Celsius degrees. Maybe it’s not the hottest place in Europe in February and perhaps not the best option for sunbathing and splashing in the sea, but you should remember that Malta is not only beautiful beaches.

    Visiting it in winter gives you perfect opportunities to enjoy all of its other attractions. And don’t let the average temperatures fool you. Malta is an extremely sunny country, with above-average hours of sunshine.

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    Above all, you need to visit the capital of Valletta. This unique city, full of culture, is perfect for winter getaways to enjoy its monuments and wonders.

    Also visit Mdina in winter. This city is a historical capital of the island. Often called The City of Silence, it is definitely a place to visit without many people around. Only then you can truly appreciate the real beauty of its mighty yet silent medieval walls.

    Other things to do in Malta are:

    • Calm sunsets in Golden Bay
    • the powerful waves in Ghasri Valley
    • Amazing views from Dingli Cliffs 

    Malta was a filming location for many cult movies & TV shows such as “Troy”, “The Count of Monte Cristo”, “Gladiator”, and “Game of Thrones”.

    If for no other reason, this is a perfect excuse to visit Malta in February and enjoy those locations without the crowds!


    Chania- one of the hottest places in Europe in winter

    The coastal villages of Chania, Crete.
    Chania Crete- Winter Sun in Europe in February

    Recommended by David from Delve into Europe

    Chania is a gorgeous old town in the west of Crete, the largest island in Greece and one of the most beautiful in the country.

    I’ve travelled many times in the eastern Mediterranean over the winter season, and you’ll normally get a good dose of winter sun and much-needed vitamin D. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Europe in October if you can’t make it there during the winter.

    How warm is it in February?

    Winter is the rainiest time of year in Chania, but you’ll still get 15-20 days of sunshine a month.

    Daytime temperatures range between 11 and 16 degrees Centigrade on the coast around Chania – very mild for Europe, even though the locals complain!

    It may be one of the hottest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    Some of the best things to do in Chania in winter include: 

    • visit the enchanting Old Town. It was built over several centuries, with the Venetians and Turks having a hand in things as well as the Cretans. The former Turkish area around Splantzia Square is the most attractive, with lots of narrow pedestrian-only streets and alleyways to explore.
    • the Venetian harbour. Some of the medieval warehouses have been turned into fantastic art exhibition spaces, and there’s also an ancient mosque to explore on the harbour. A winter afternoon is the best time of year to do the harbour wall walk, along the breakwater to the Venetian lighthouse. The view back over the old town to the White Mountains behind is absolutely breathtaking.
    • The beaches of the Chania region are hugely popular in summer and the shoulder seasons, but in winter you’ll virtually have them to yourself. There are some stunning beaches within an hour or two of Chania, from tiny Seitan Limania on the nearby Akrotiri peninsula to the unusual pink sand on the island of Elafonissi.

    Rethymnon, Crete – perfect winter destination in March

    Fishing boats sitting in the water in Crete, Greece.
    Crete- great destination in Europe for sunshine in February

    Recommended by Stephanie from Sofia Adventures

    One of my favourite places to escape the cold in Europe is Crete.

    While all the main cities in Crete are wonderful in winter, I do think there’s an extra bit of magic to visiting Rethymnon off-season.

    Heraklion and Chania have more tourists year-round, while Rethymnon stays a bit emptier. You’ll be able to enjoy the town’s iconic views all to yourself!

    How warm is it in February?

    The southernmost island in Greece never gets truly cold with temperatures staying between 9 degrees Celsius and 17 degrees Celsius all winter.

    Even though it can be chilly at times, most days are pleasant. And it’s the perfect way to explore Crete’s famous archaeology sites that are brutal to see in the heat of summer.

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    Some of my favourite things to do in Rethymnon in winter are

    • walk around the Venetian Harbor at Golden Hour
    • enjoy the sunset with a walk along the water.
    • visiting the Rimondi fountain
    • enjoying raki at Raki Ba Raki bar.

    You’ll also want to make sure to spend a few enjoyable meals enjoying Cretan cuisine and washing it down with some great local wine!

    Make sure to ask your server for wine recommendations since local wine isn’t exported as often as one might like so it’s hard to find outside of the island.

    You can visit as a day trip from Chania or Heraklion, but if you want to spend some time there are some beautiful Rethymnon hotels to pick from, including one built into an old Turkish Bath!


    Sicily – one of the hottest places in Europe in March

    The beautiful coat and blue waters of Sicily.
    Sicily- one of the warmest places in Europe in February

    Recommended by Emily from Wander-Lush

    Also one of the best places to spend Autumn in Europe, Sicily is a great destination for winter sun-seekers. The Aeolian Islands off the northern coast are no exception.

    You might have to contend with a pared-back ferry schedule and a few cafe closures, but as long as you’re prepared, the Aeolian Islands make for a great winter escape.

    How warm is it in February?

    It can get a little nippy in winter, with daytime temperatures dropping to the mid-teens/ 60s. Storm season falls in January, so February/March is an ideal time to go

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    In winter, the islands are lovely and quiet. You can still enjoy the quaint towns and fabulous restaurants each of the seven Aeolian Islands has to offer.

    Boat trips are still an option – you can pair two islands together to make a day trip. It’s also a pleasant time for hiking in the island hinterland.

    Treks range from the famous Stromboli volcano summit to short walks around the smaller islands, Salina and Vulcano.

    On Lipari, the biggest island, you can while away hours exploring the winding streets. Soak up some rays and get some people-watching in at the main plaza, or escape indoors to the world-class Archaeology Museum.

    It’s never too cold for a scoop of Sicilian gelato, and there are plenty of parlours to try.

    At the end of the day, no matter which island you’re on, you can curl up with a cocktail or a glass of red wine at a bar overlooking the water – or better still, on your own boutique hotel terrace.


    Cyprus – one of the hottest places in Europe in February

    An aerial view of the beautiful beaches of Cyprus.
    Cyprus- one of the hottest places in Europe in winter

    Recommended by Alexander from Destinavo

    Cyprus is a great destination to visit in wintertime for sunshine, and many of the coastal towns such as Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos are lively year-round thanks to the local population.

    What’s even better is to visit the resort town of Ayia Napa where you will find paradise beaches that are packed in the summer, but much quieter during the winter months, when the party hotels are mostly closed.

    How warm is it in February?

    The sun will still be shining with temperatures up to 20 degrees in February and water temperature around 18-20 degrees.

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    The best beaches to visit in Cyprus are:

    • Makronissos beach (in the picture)
    • Konnos Bay
    • the world-famous Nissi Beach. Here you’ll find golden sand beaches with various shades of crystal clear azure water. The snorkeling is fantastic and you could even go diving and explore some nearby shipwrecks as well.

    The best way to get around Cyprus is by renting a car. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, you could also drive up the mountains of Cyprus (there are some great hiking trails up there) or visit the capital Nicosia which is split into two parts between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

    Just 30 minutes by car, there is also the historical port town of Larnaca where you can find lots of charming restaurants, old buildings, and a nice beach boulevard.

    In Ayia Napa, there is also many restaurants and hotels to choose from, and a lovely marina where you can go for a stroll in the evening.

    In the outskirts of the town, you can also visit the Love Bridge which is a natural arch bridge with crystal clear azure blue water as well.


    Albufeira, Portugal – one of the hottest places in Europe in February

    Walking along the beautiful beaches of Albufeira in Portugal - one of the warmest places in Europe in February.
    Albufeira- one of the best places in mainland Europe for winter sunshine

    Recommended by Diana from the Elusive Family

    Albufeira is located in the beautiful Algarve region in southern Portugal and is a wonderful destination to get some much needed sunshine during Europe’s cold winter months.  

    The southern Portuguese coast is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February to see beautiful coastline, rugged cliffs, and the wild Atlantic ocean, especially if you’re campervanning in Portugal.

    How warm is it in February?

    Walking around Albufeira during the winter is very pleasant as temperatures are typically 14-16c (low 60’sf). Though it can get chilly and windy by the ocean, it’s a beautiful place to visit in the winter.

    Albufeira’s location on the Algarve is perfect for seeing the region. Located in the middle of the Algarve, there are numerous things to do in Albufeira in summer or winter, though in the winter the ocean will be quite a bit chillier. 

    It may be one of the warmest places in Europe in February, but what is there to DO?

    Albufeira has a lively atmosphere, where the main road, also known as The Strip has numerous shops and restaurants leading down to the Praia Oura.  

    Cafes, bars, restaurants and shops are one of the main draws of this area, and provide tourists with ample opportunities to purchase some great Portuguese gifts, including the option to purchase real cork from the cork forest in Portugal. 

    The city also has great restaurants and trying traditional Portuguese food is a must such as xerem or seafood as it will be fresh.

    After eating at any of Albufeira’s hundreds of restaurants, take a stroll to the galleria Corte -Real which sells contemporary art.

    Other places in mainland Europe which are warm(ish) in February include southern Italy, the French Riviera (mediterranean coast of France and Monaco) and Spain (near Malaga and Gibraltar.)

    Been somewhere amazing in Europe in February? Let me know where in the comments below!

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