Croatia in February: Carnivals and Travel Tips
February is the last winter month in Croatia. The weather is still chilly, but the days are reasonably long. Being the off-tourist season, you will get great deals on hotels if you visit Croatia in February. Soak in the beautiful Adriatic views minus the tourist crowds, head to Platak for a thrilling ski adventure, enjoy the infectious energy of carnivals, and visit the lovely coastal town of Trogir, a Unesco World Heritage site. Croatia in winter makes for an excellent destination.
Croatia Weather in February
Though the February weather in Croatia is cold, there is a noticeable difference in temperatures in different parts of the country. The temperature in Zagreb can go as low as -1.8°C while the average high is 7°C. The popular coastal destinations of Dubrovnik and Split are warmer in comparison. In Dubrovnik, the average high temperature is 10°C and the low is 6.1°C. In Split, the mercury averages between 5.5°C and 11°C.
You are also likely to experience snow in Croatia in February, and not just in the mountains. Chances of rain are also higher along the coast. The country gets around 10 hours of daylight during this time.
For a seasonal overview, check our guide on the best time for visiting Croatia.
Weather in Croatia in February - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 3 | 8 | 13 | 15 | 20 | 23 | 27 | 27 | 22 | 15 | 8 | 4 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | -3 | -1 | 2 | 4 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 10 | 7 | 2 | -1 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 37.4 | 46.4 | 55.4 | 59 | 68 | 73.4 | 80.6 | 80.6 | 71.6 | 59 | 46.4 | 39.2 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 26.6 | 30.2 | 35.6 | 39.2 | 50 | 55.4 | 59 | 59 | 50 | 44.6 | 35.6 | 30.2 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 38 | 50 | 60 | 66 | 86 | 104 | 72 | 79 | 66 | 54 | 118 | 53 |
Why Visit Croatia in February
Croatia in February is packed with exciting things to do and see. Here are some reasons why you should visit this beautiful country in February:
- Carnivals and festivals: Croatia hosts some of the most fascinating carnivals and festivals in February. These include Rijeka Carnival, in which thousands of street performers entertain massive crowds and visitors; Zagrebdox, a documentary film festival that focuses on regional cinema; and the Feast of St. Blaise, which is observed in honor of Dubrovnik’s patron saint.
- Winter sports: While skiing in Platak, Sljeme, and Mukinje is considered the top-rated activity to do in Croatia, you can also try various snow sports in these ski resorts, like sledding and tobogganing.
- Off-season rates: Not sure if a trip to Croatia is expensive? If you are planning a trip in the peak summer season, you can expect to spend up to USD1300 for a party of two in a week. But in February, costs are relatively lower, as most hotels offer great off-season discounts in Croatia.
- Fewer crowds: The lovely coastline of Croatia is swarming with selfie-seekers and dawdling tourists in the summer months. You will have no such pesky experience if you are traveling in February. Enjoy the entire coastal destinations in a relatively crowd-free environment.
Where to go and what to do
February is a great month to explore the culturally rich and beautiful cities of Croatia. Admire the collection at the Museum of Contemporary Art that includes works by brilliant Croatian artists like Ivan Picelj and Aleksandar Srnec; visit the magnificent Zagreb Cathedral at Kaptol, with its neo-gothic altars and 19th-century stained glass; climb up Lotrščak Tower for a lovely view of the city bathed in the sunset glow.
If you are a Game of Thrones fan, you will recognize several locations on Dubrovnik’s famed city walls. You can also wander around the city’s historic Rector’s Palace with its Venetian-Gothic look and loggia façade, and take the Dubrovnik Cable Car to the hills.
In the charming coastal city of Split, on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, take a tour of the wonderful UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace dating back to the 4th century BC; soak in the Roman-era vibes at Peristil Square; and see the extensive collection at the Archaeological Museum that includes stone carvings and gems.
Visit the quaint little town of Trogir when there are few visitors around. Wander along its waterfront and labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets. Climb the 15th-century Kamerlengo, a fortress that offers superb views of the city center. Explore Trogir’s fine Cathedral (Katedrala Sv. Lovre), with its 13th-century Romanesque door and 14th-century bell tower. In February, the entire town is yours to explore.
Croatia is also emerging as a much-sought-after ski destination in Europe, and February is a great time to experience this. The otherworldly winter landscape of Plitvice National Park is a sight not to be missed. Speaking of winter landscapes, the castles of Varazdin Castle and Trakošćan look stunning in February.
Croatia is known for its thermal spas, some of them in use since Roman times, and the February chill is the perfect excuse for you to experience their soothing warmth. Top picks include spas at Sveti Martin na Muri, Tuhelj and Stubičke Toplice.
From enjoying winter sports to exploring ancient castles to urban attractions, Croatia never ceases to delight visitors. And what better way to discover Croatia’s beauty than in February, when the tourist crowds are low and accommodation rates are cheaper?
Reach out to our local travel experts to plan a customized tour of Croatia in February.
Other articles:
Croatia in January
Croatia in March
