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 weather in February?

The weather in Italy in February stills marks wintertime, so northern cities like Milan, Turin and Venice experience temperatures that range from freezing to 10°C (32–50°F). It can be quite cold, and snowfall is possible, especially in the Alps and the Dolomites.

Head to central Italy, however, and the likes of Rome, Florence and Pisa experience much milder temperatures and drier conditions.

Average temperatures typically range from 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F). Rainfall is possible but generally, it’s less frequent than early spring and the end of the calendar year.

Further south, around Naples, Sicily, and Sardinia, there is relatively mild weather throughout February. Temperatures can range from 8–16°C (46–61°F) with a higher chance of sunshine.

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Italy itineraries.

Is Italy warm in February?

In southern Italy, particularly in regions like Sicily and Sardinia, February temperatures can reach highs of around 16°C (61°F), which some may consider mild or even warm.

Coastal areas in southern Italy may have slightly milder temperatures compared to inland areas.

In central Italy, in cities like Rome and Florence, average temperatures range from around 5–(41–55°F).

While the weather in Italy in February may not be warm in the traditional sense, it can still be pleasant for sightseeing.

In northern Italy, including cities such as Milan and Venice, temperatures can range from freezing to 10°C (32–50°F).

It tends to be colder in these regions, and snowfall is possible, especially in mountainous areas.

Rough Guides tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Italy.

Is February a good time to visit Italy?

Yes. There are numerous reasons to visit Italy in February. First off, it is the tail end of the ski season and an excellent time for winter sports.

There is fantastic skiing, snowboarding and snow trekking in both the Alps and the Dolomites. As it is now term time, the school holiday season is over, and the slopes are far less crowded than in December.

Italy is also home to St Valentine and some will make the pilgrimage to his birthplace at Terni on February 14. You are better off visiting his personal basilica at San Valentino, a village 2km to the southwest, where he is now entombed.

Others, meanwhile, will aim to visit Casa di Giulietta, Verona's busiest attraction.

The town is the setting for Shakepeare’s famous romantic play, Romeo and Juliet, the picturesque balcony and bronze statue of Juliet at Casa di Giulietta has been attracting tourists for decades, despite not being anything to do with the story.

Southern regions of Italy, such as Sicily and Sardinia, experience relatively milder temperatures in February compared to the north. It can be an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or exploring coastal areas without the scorching summer heat or crowds of tourists.

Travelling to Italy in February can often be more budget-friendly, too. It's considered the low season, and you may find lower prices on accommodations, flights, and other travel expenses.

Experience this fabulous tailor-made 10-day trip through Southern Italy, where the charming towns of the Amalfi Coast are waiting to be discovered. Crystal-clear waters lap the island of Capri, Naples and its surroundings are a gourmet's paradise and historical wonders such as Pompeii beckon to be discovered.

Average rainfall in Italy in February

In February, the average rainfall in Milan is around 62mm. In Rome, the average rainfall is higher at 92mm, while in Florence, it is about 55mm.

Venice experiences around 40-50mm of rainfall on average, and in Naples, the average rainfall is approximately 50-60mm. Southern regions of Italy, such as Sicily and Sardinia, tend to have milder and less rainy winters compared to the northern parts of the country.

Festivals and events in Italy in February

Whether religious, traditional or cultural, there are literally thousands of festivals in Italy and sometimes the best are those that you come across unexpectedly in smaller towns. Some of the highlights for February are listed below:

• Festa di Sant’Agata (Feb 3–5). Riotous religious procession in Catania, Sicily that honours Saint Agatha, the patron saint of the city.
• Carnevale (weekend before Lent). Carnival festivities in Venice, plus many towns throughout Italy. when for four consecutive Sundays it stages an amazing parade of floats, or carri – colossal, lavishly designed papier-mâché models of politicians and celebrities
• Ivrea Battle of the Oranges (Carnival Sun–Shrove Tues). A messy few days when processions through the streets are an excuse to pelt each other with orange pulp; featuring piping, drumming, masked balls, historic processions and fireworks – that culminates in a bizarre three-day “Battle of the Oranges” when the whole town turns out to pelt each other with oranges – you have to wear a red hat if you don’t want to be a target.
• Almond Blossom Festival, Agrigento (ten days in mid-Feb). A colourful celebration of the blooming of almond trees in spring with folk music from around the world.

Ready for your dream trip to Italy in February?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without the planning or hassle. All of our planned itineraries are created by local travel experts and can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

• Italian Cities of the Renaissance (8 days): Enjoy a week in Italy, discovering the historical landmarks that the country's top cities have to offer; from the ancient sites of Rome, to the waterways of Venice and the cobbled streets of Florence.

• Piedmont Discovery (10 days): Piedmont is a culinary heaven, with world-class wines and truffles waiting to be discovered. The capital city Turin is a cultural center with a picture perfect skyline. Afterwards, continue to the countryside around Alba, with wine tastings, cooking classes and enjoying the mountains and nature.

• Or discover more Italy itineraries.

Visit Italy in other months

• January
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December