Italy in February: Weather, Carnivals and Romance
Although the weather of Italy in February may be missing the typical characteristics that many of us associate with the peninsula (sunny beaches and balmy countryside), there are still a good number of reasons to consider visiting Italy during this time of year. Shopaholics will love the end-of-the-season sales while touring Milan, while in Venice travelers can be part of its famous carnival. Similarly, the Alps are still suitable for skiing and snowboarding during this time of year, while there’s Valentine’s Day for anyone planning a romantic break in Florence.
- Carl
Italy weather in February
Italy’s ski resorts, including Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val d’Aosta, see plenty of fresh snowfall most years during February, ensuring they remain busy. This snow turns into regular showers of rain at lower altitudes, which means that you should not expect constantly clear skies during this month. When it comes to temperatures in Italy in February, northern regions can see thermometers fall below the freezing point at night and struggle to hit anything more than 5°C by day. Further south in Rome, peak temperatures reach 13°C.
For a seasonal over, read our travel article on the best time to visit Italy.
Weather in Italy in February - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 13 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 29 | 32 | 30 | 27 | 23 | 18 | 15 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 3 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 8 | 4 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 56 | 58 | 63 | 68 | 76 | 85 | 90 | 86 | 81 | 74 | 65 | 59 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 38 | 38 | 43 | 47 | 56 | 63 | 67 | 65 | 61 | 56 | 47 | 40 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 25 | 20 | 19 | 18 | 33 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 42 | 38 | 49 | 96 |
| Jan | Feb | Mar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 13 | 14 | 17 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 3 | 3 | 6 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 56 | 58 | 63 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 38 | 38 | 43 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 25 | 20 | 19 |
Why Visit Italy in February
Whether you are a self-proclaimed fashion enthusiast or keen to join the throngs at the Venice Carnival, there are plenty of reasons to visit Italy in February. Below we have listed a few of them.
- Low-season rates: Outside of ski resorts and Venice, accommodation rates can be substantially lower in February than at other times of the year, meaning you can budget an entire day at just USD 120 to USD 150 per person, with about USD 65 of this being spent on accommodation.
- Shorter queues: Since February is the low season in Italy, there is hardly any line outside attractions such as the Duomo in Florence and the archaeological museum in Naples. Once inside, it is much easier to get up close with their treasures too!
- Carnival time: It is during this month that masked balls and other events that together form the two-week Venice Carnival are organized. But this is not the only city to indulge in revelries during February. For something a little different, head instead to Ivrea where orange-throwing battles are organized in the town center.
- Valentine’s Day: Often said to be the most romantic nation, Valentine’s Day in Italy is unlike anywhere in the world. Be part of Valentine’s Day celebrations in Romeo and Juliet’s Verona or spend some quality time with your loved one among the epic vistas of Cinque Terre.
Where to go and what to do
Skiers and snowboarders can head for the Alps, Dolomites and even the volcanic slopes of Sicily’s Mount Etna during February. While on the Mediterranean’s largest island, do not miss out on a trip to the hilltop town of Taormina and the Greek temples of Agrigento. Cross the Strait of Messina and head for the Bay of Naples, which has a very different vibe during February compared to busy summer months. The Italian Lake District is a fine alternative in the north. You could use the opportunity provided by the lack of crowds to absorb, at your own leisure, the multitude of attractions linked to the ancient Rome in the modern Italian capital. Similarly, wine connoisseurs might like to sample last years’ vintages in the tasting rooms of Tuscany.
For more tips on the length of your vacation, check out our travel guide to how many days to spend in Italy.
What to bring
There is no great secret about what to pack for a trip to Italy in February, although there are a couple of points to note. Firstly, it would be foolhardy to travel anywhere in Italy in February without an umbrella, because you will encounter showers at some point during your stay. Secondly, puddles can linger on ancient streets for several days after rain, so be sure to pack a good pair of covered shoes — or buy some at a discount in Milan!
The weather in Italy in February should not prevent you from enjoying the fine food and incredible attractions that this country has to offer. What is more, with lower prices and events such as carnivals to look forward to, February could actually become your favorite month for exploring Italy. Connect with our travel experts in the country for a customized Italy itinerary.
Book one of our Italy tours in February.
Other articles:
Italy in January
Italy in March
