Italy Weather in February

Embrace the romantic spirit of Italy in February as the country comes alive with Valentine's Day celebrations. Wander through Venice's enchanting alleys during the Carnival, adorned with masks and costumes, or indulge in the soul-stirring art and architecture of Florence. Want to know all about the weather in Italy in January? Keep reading as we share all our tips about the weather in Italy in February.

Italy in February at a glance

February is part of the low season in Italy, with cooler weather and far fewer visitors.

• Temperatures generally range from 40 to 55°F (4 to 13°C), with colder conditions in the north.
• It can be a good time to visit for city sightseeing and museums, though it’s not ideal for coastal travel.
• Crowds are low overall, except during Carnival in places like Venice.
• Costs are lower than most of the year, especially for accommodation.
   

What is the weather like in Italy in February?

February is still winter in Italy, and the weather reflects that. It’s cool, sometimes damp, and very region-dependent. In the north, cities like Milan and Venice are often gray and chilly. Rome stays a little warmer, while Sicily and the south get the mildest days. It’s not ideal for outdoor sightseeing all day, but it’s great for long museum visits, uncrowded piazzas, and warming up with a hot espresso.

The weather in Italy in February also means fewer tourists and lower prices. Rain is possible, especially in central and southern regions. You can expect 40 to 70mm depending on where you are but it rarely ruins a whole day. Up in the Alps, ski resorts are in full swing. And if you’re in Venice, Carnival brings a burst of color to the winter greys.

It’s not beach season, but if you don’t mind bundling up, February is a good time to visit without the crowds. This is a great time to plan your Italy itinerary. 

Average daily temperatures in February

February is still very much winter in Italy. Up north, places like Milan and Venice stay chilly, with daytime highs around 46 to 50°F (8 to 10°C). Rome hits closer to 54°F (12°C), and Sicily is the warmest at around 59°F (15°C). Nights can drop to freezing in the north, so if you're heading to the Alps or Dolomites, bring proper winter gear.

The weather in Italy in February is mixed—some sun, some rain, maybe even snow in the north. Sea temps sit at 57 to 59°F (14 to 15°C), which isn’t exactly swim-friendly. You’ll only get 10 to 11 hours of daylight, but that’s enough for a museum visit, a long lunch, and a sunset stroll.

Tourist numbers stay low this time of year, which means more room to breathe in the big cities. Just pack layers and expect to spend more time indoors than out.

  Ready to see Italy? Have our local Italy travel experts create the perfect customized itinerary.

Is February a good time to visit Italy?

February isn't Italy at its warmest, but it can still be a great time to visit if you plan right. Up north, the weather stays cold and damp, and you’ll want a coat and umbrella for cities like Milan or Venice. In the Dolomites, the snow is reliable, and ski season is in full swing.

Venice gets busy for Carnival, when streets fill with elaborate masks and late-night parties. Elsewhere, it’s quiet. Museums in Florence and Rome have fewer lines, and hotel prices drop across much of the country.

Sicily and the southern coast stay mild enough for walks and ruins, though some rural hotels shut for the season. If you don’t mind the chill, this can be a smart and affordable time to go. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Italy.

• Cold weather across the north and center
• Big crowds in Venice during Carnival
• Good skiing conditions in the Alps
• Lower prices and fewer tourists in most cities
• Many rural or beach towns are still in off-season

What about the crowd and cost?

February is firmly low season across most of Italy. Outside of Carnival, visitor numbers are light and prices for flights and accommodation are generally lower than in spring and summer. Major cities like Rome and Florence are noticeably quieter, making it easier to visit big-name sights without long waits. Northern regions can feel cold and gray, but central and southern Italy remain workable for city sightseeing.

Venice is the main exception. Venice sees a sharp rise in visitors during Carnival, with higher prices and busy streets concentrated around key dates. From March through May, crowds and costs steadily increase, while July and August bring peak season conditions nationwide. Late fall and early winter, outside of Christmas and New Year, tend to mirror February for value, though with shorter daylight hours and a higher chance of rain. See more in our guide to the best time to visit Italy. 
 

Where to go in Italy in February

Italy in February feels slower and more local. It’s cold in the north and mild in the south, but the rewards come in the form of quiet streets, uncrowded museums, and winter food at its best. Here are some of the best places to visit in Italy. 

Venice

Venice becomes something else entirely during Carnival. Streets and canals are filled with masks, costumes, and celebrations, while fog settles over the city in the early mornings. It’s cold and a little damp, but that only adds to the atmosphere. Outside the main events, you can walk through quiet neighborhoods and stop at small wine bars for snacks and local reds. It feels personal in a way that summer never allows.

Rome

Rome works well in February. You can walk for hours without the summer heat slowing you down, and major sights like the Vatican Museums or the Forum aren’t packed. Rain is possible, but it’s easy to duck into churches, galleries, or a warm trattoria. Seasonal Roman dishes show up on menus, especially artichokes and hearty pastas, and you don’t need to book every dinner weeks in advance. See our favorite day trips from Rome. 

Florence and Tuscany

Florence gets fewer day-trippers in February, so places like the Uffizi or the Accademia are less hectic. You actually get time to look at the art. Outside the city, the hill towns are quieter too. The countryside feels stripped back but beautiful, with fireplaces lit in wine estates and fields still bare from winter. It’s also peak black truffle season, which means some of the best food of the year is on the table right now. See our favorite things to do in Tuscany. 
 

What to do in Italy in February

February is prime time for Venice Carnival, truffle hunting, and citrus harvests. Here are some of the best things to do in Italy. 

Venice Carnival

Carnival in Venice is unlike anything else. You’ll see people in full 18th-century costume walking around St. Mark’s Square, stopping for espresso in full wigs and masks. It’s a mix of fancy private balls and public concerts, but even just wandering the streets feels like a time warp. 

Go truffle hunting

In regions like Umbria and Piedmont, February is still truffle season. You’ll head out with a guide and a trained dog early in the morning, walking through quiet woods and farmland. When the dog finds something, the guide explains how to spot the good ones and why certain trees matter. Most tours end with a rustic meal: pasta, eggs, or risotto topped with fresh truffle shavings.

Tour the Amalfi Coast

Without summer traffic, the coastal road is peaceful, and the towns feel local again. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are all open, just quiet. Hiking trails like the Path of the Gods are cooler and safer to walk. You’ll eat in family-run trattorias where the staff has time to chat, and you might even catch lemon harvest season. 

Planning your itinerary

Our Italy itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point—perfect for planning but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Italy itinerary 5 days: A quick trip to Italy’s must-see spots, usually focused on one or two iconic cities. Perfect if you want a taste of Italy’s famous art, history, and cuisine.
• Italy itinerary 7 days: A week in Italy allows you to experience both city life and a bit of countryside charm. You’ll have time to explore major sights and get a feel for Italy’s local culture.
• Italy itinerary 10 days: Ten days offers a good balance between Italy’s cities and scenic regions. You can enjoy both bustling urban highlights and quieter rural areas at a comfortable pace.
• Italy itinerary 14 days: With two weeks, you can take a deeper dive into Italy’s diverse regions. This itinerary covers a variety of landscapes, from historic towns to rolling vineyards and coastal views.
• Amalfi coast itinerary: A dedicated trip to Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast, known for its cliffside villages and stunning sea views. Perfect for leisurely days exploring charming towns and relaxing by the water.
• Tuscany itinerary: Explore the heart of Tuscany, famous for its medieval towns, vineyards, and Renaissance art. Ideal for wine tasting, scenic drives, and soaking up Italy’s countryside beauty.
• North Italy itinerary: A journey through northern Italy’s rich culture, lakes, and mountains. Expect elegant cities, picturesque lake towns, and a taste of Italy’s alpine regions.
• South Italy itinerary: Discover the unique character of southern Italy, from ancient ruins to sun-drenched beaches. This itinerary captures the laid-back vibe and rich traditions of Italy’s south.