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February isn’t typically the most entertaining month of the year. Generally quite cold, nature isn’t at its finest, but does this mean we should avoid travelling? Certainly not, as February offers a variety of festivals and events across Europe. Notably, it’s the time for carnivals, these disguised celebrations that take diverse forms depending on the country and region. We’ve selected several for this list. Looking for a little getaway before spring? Here’s where to travel in February in Europe.
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In Jerez de la Frontera for the Jerez Festival | Spain
Where? Jerez de la Frontera, south of Seville, Andalusia (map)
When? For dates, check the official Jerez Festival website
Jerez de la Frontera is the Mecca of flamenco, and its festival, held in February, is a pilgrimage. Dancers from around forty countries gather here each year. The festival hosts around fifty performances, but dancing also spills onto the streets, with numerous events involving the public.
In Nice for Carnival | France
Where? Nice, in the Alpes-Maritimes, not far from Italy (map)
When? For dates, consult the official Nice Carnival website
Probably the most famous carnival in France, rivalled perhaps by Dunkirk’s (read below). For two weeks and three weekends, the Mediterranean city (📖 read our guide about Nice) is adorned with a thousand colours. The first edition of the Nice Carnival dates back to the late 13th century, showing how deeply rooted the traditions are. Not to be missed are the Grand Corso Carnavalesque (daytime parade), the nocturnal Corso and the Battle of Flowers.
In Venice for Carnival (also) | Italy
Where? Venice, in northeastern Italy, not far from the Slovenian border (map)
When? For dates, see the official Venice Carnival website
The world’s most famous carnival, with origins dating back to the 10th century, needs no introduction. It traditionally starts ten days before Ash Wednesday and is primarily held on the streets of Serenissima. Period masks and costumes are the norm. The water parade and the Flight of the Angel are two of the main highlights of every Venice Carnival.
👉 In fact, for a totally magical moment, have a look at our selections of hotels overlooking the Grand Canal or with private Jacuzzis.
In York for the Jorvik Viking Festival | United Kingdom
Where? York, east of Leeds, north-east England (map)
When? For dates, check the official Jorvik Viking Festival website
Devoured all six seasons of the Vikings series and looking for a destination to match your adventurous desires? Then the Jorvik Festival is for you. This largest Viking culture festival in Europe attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Why in February? It corresponds to the celebrations of the return of spring by the proud warriors of the time.
In Lucerne for Carnival | Swiss
Where? Lucerne, in northern Switzerland and south of Zurich (map)
When? For dates, see the official Lucerne Carnival website
Here’s another excellent destination to travel to in Europe in February. With or without snow, the Lucerne Carnival takes place annually in February and is one of the largest Swiss events in the field. It features numerous disguised brass bands parading through the streets and groups of Guggenmusik. Also, not to be missed: the grand monster parade, the Monstercorso.
In Berlin for the International Film Festival | Germany
Where? Berlin, Eastern Germany (map)
When? For dates, see the official Berlinale website
Germany’s answer to the Cannes Film Festival, the Berlin International Film Festival has been held annually since 1951. It’s one of the major events in European cinema, attracting numerous international stars and a loyal audience. In 2020, the Berlinale drew nearly 500,000 viewers. And it’s a great opportunity to explore the German capital. Berlin is undoubtedly among the best destinations in Europe to visit in February.
🛎️ A very cool stay. With this selection of trendy hotels in the Kreuzberg district, you’ll enjoy your nights in Berlin as much as your days.
In Dunkirk for Carnival | France
Where? Dunkirk, north of Lille (map)
When? For dates, consult this site created for Carnival lovers
As Mardi Gras approaches, Dunkirk goes wild. Its carnival is renowned throughout France for the constant revelry in the city streets. Join the bands and sing the famous “Cantate à Jean Bart”; the Dunkirk Carnival will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories.
In Binche for Carnival (again) | Belgium
Where? Binche, south of Brussels, in the Walloon Region (map)
When? For dates, go to the official Binche Carnival website
Here is one of the oldest carnivals in Belgium. It was even listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2003. The Binche Carnival, which dates back to the late 14th century, is notably famous for its Gilles, large characters who parade through the city streets to the sound of brass bands.
In Ivrea, for the Battle of the Oranges | Italy
Where? Ivrea, north of Turin, northwestern Italy (map)
When? For the dates of the next edition, visit this well-informed site
The Battle of the oranges in Ivrea, Italy, is a unique and vibrant festival, celebrated with a tradition of throwing oranges symbolizing rebellion against tyranny. Participants, divided into teams, engage in a playful yet intense battle using oranges as projectiles. This tradition commemorates a historical revolt by the city’s citizens against oppressive rulers. The festival is an exhilarating mix of combat, history, and local festivities, drawing visitors from all around to experience this one-of-a-kind event and participate in the colourful and symbolic skirmish.
That concludes where to travel in Europe in February. But of course, this list of destinations is not exhaustive. Feel free to share your ideas with us on our social networks or in the comments.