Travelling to and exploring Europe is something everybody wants to do at least once in their lives (Europeans included). And why not? This rather small-sized continent has a ton to offer, from staggering alpine views to pristine beaches to untouched, raw countrysides and even breathtaking architecture. In short, Europe is a travellers dream. A visit to Europe in February offers a number of advantages that you simply must keep in mind – balmy temperatures, smaller crowds and a chance to witness some amazing, fun festivals! Read on for our curation of the 14 places you can visit in Europe in the month of February. Some are warm, some are cold; but they all make for a perfect travel destination in February.

Algarve, Portugal

It was here that, in the 15th century, the Portuguese set off on the epic journey that led them to discover other peoples and cultures… and it is in the Algarve that we cheerfully welcome many of our visitors. Even the climate is mild and sunny all year round!

There’s no shortage of high quality beaches either. Sandy stretches as far as the eye can see, framed by golden cliffs, virtually deserted islands marking the boundary between Ria Formosa and the sea, and small coves sheltered by the rocks. The ocean, in every shade of blue and mostly calm and warm, invites you for long swims and to indulge in water sports.

And there are also the mountains, where people live in harmony with nature and maintain traditions that they love to share. And the cities. Silves preserves traces of its Arab past and Lagos from the time of the Discoveries. More cosmopolitan Portimão and Albufeira are bustling towns by night and day. Tavira is a showcase for traditional architecture and Faro, the gateway to the region, deserves a long stop to discover its beautiful historic centre.

To relax, you can have various treatments in the spas and thalassotherapy centres and in the Monchique Thermal Baths. There are also many internationally acclaimed golf courses where you can enjoy a spot of exercise. And hotels, tourist villages, resorts, from the simplest to the most sophisticated. In short, a varied array sharing a genuine love for hospitality.

You can use footpaths and cycle trails to get to know the region, such as the Algarve Way inland or the Vicentine Route along one of the best preserved coastal stretches. And boat rides are another ecological way to observe the flora and fauna.

At the table, you will be delighted with the fresh fish and seafood, either grilled or in a casserole. These are divine flavours which you can enjoy on a simple beach terrace or in the most refined Michelin-starred restaurants, where chefs turn out new versions of traditional cuisine. They are further experiences not to be missed on a visit to the region.

Tourist Attraction

• Ponta da Piedade
• Cape St. Vincent
• Praia da Rocha
• Ria Formosa
• Praia da Marinha
• Tavira Island
• Praia do Camilo
• Aquashow Park

Girne, Cyprus

Home to a beautiful crescent-shaped harbourfront and some stunning sandy beaches, Kyrenia (Girne) is one of the leading tourist resorts on the coastline of North Cyprus. Despite being a relatively small town, the tourism scene in Kyrenia is thriving and in the summer months, the Old Harbour is usually thronging with holiday makers visiting its many waterfront bars and restaurants, creating an atmosphere of excitement.

Interestingly, Kyrenia is where you will discover the largest British expat community on the island and features by far the most notable concentration of hotels, bars and eateries in North Cyprus. For tourists, it is the historical Old Town area where the most appealing sights reside. At the Old Harbour, an outlet of the North Cyprus Tourism Organisation (NCTO) is teeming with local tourist information and free regional maps, available in both Turkish and English.

Tourist Attraction

• Old Town
• Ikimiz
• Niazi’s restaurant and bar
• Corner Restaurant
• Kyrenia Tavern
• Beyti restaurant

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is a open minded city where culture and entertainment share a thriving space. Thanks to its modern and cosmopolitan flare and to the friendly and passionate character of madrileños, the Spanish capital makes everyone feel right at home while providing them with some of the world’s most interesting tourist attractions.

Over eighty museums and more than two thousand monuments -both historical and artistic-, contribute to the city’s richness, a cultural heritage without which it would be impossible to understand European and world history.

Madrid’s cultural legacy offers visitors an incomparable tour: El Paseo del Arte, an Art Walk which includes the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía National Museum and Art Centre, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and, more recently, CaixaForum. It is a unique survey through painting, sculpture, architecture and nature.

Madrid is one of the world’s liveliest, most entertaining and vibrant cities during the day, but even more so at night. The Spanish capital does not only offer art, shopping, nightlife and excellent gastronomy but it also presents both visitors and locals with all imaginable options for leisure

Tourist Attraction

• Royal Palace of Madrid
• Plaza Mayor
• Museo Nacional del Prado
• El Retiro Park
• Puerta del Sol
• Gran Vía, Madrid
• Temple of Debod
• Mercado de San Miguel

Barcelona, Spain

Catalonia’s vibrant capital, Barcelona is a stunning seaside city that flaunts her beauty and sunny lifestyle. Gorgeous scenery, breathtaking architecture, and superb cultural attractions make for an alluring destination. Of course, the balmy Mediterranean climate adds to the charm. Barcelona has an atmospheric medieval quarter, with an almost magical old-world ambience, but it’s even more famous for its Modernist architecture. Antoni Gaudí left a lasting mark on Barcelona with his avant-garde Surrealist buildings; several are UNESCO listed.

After all the sightseeing, tourists will want to simply relax and soak up the city’s joyous vibe. Stroll down La Rambla, where the locals hang out. Escape to the sandy beaches near the harbor, and linger over leisurely meals on outdoor terraces. Wander aimlessly and find hidden town squares, where street musicians strum melodies on Spanish guitars. Delightful surprises abound at every turn. Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Barcelona.

Tourist Attraction

• La Sagrada Familia
• Park Güell
• Casa Milà
• Casa Batlló
• La Rambla, Barcelona
• Gothic Quarter
• Mercado de La Boqueria
• Montjuïc

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Independent principality governed for seven centuries by the Grimaldi family, Monaco is the symbol of luxury. The main places of interest to discover in Monaco are:

• The Grimaldi Rock, where is located the Princely Palace and its changing of the Guard, but also the Oceanographic Museum and the neo-Romanesque cathedral of 1884;
• Monte-Carlo, with its prestigious Casino built in 1878, its Opera built by Charles Garnier, its gardens and terraces, its jewellery and haute couture shops, and its sumptuous hotels of “Belle Epoque” style ;
• The exotic garden featuring numerous tropical plants;
• The port and the location of Fontvieille, recent district built on the sea and home to offices and businesses.

Tourist Attraction

• Place du Casino
• Jardin du Casino
• Jardins de la Petite Afrique
• Hector Berlioz Statue
• Casino Monte-Carlo
• Prince’s Palace of Monaco
• Musée Matisse