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.

What is the weather like in Italy in February?

The weather in Italy in February stills marks wintertime, so northern cities like Milan, Turin and Venice experience temperatures that range from 32°F to 50°F  (0°C to 10°C). 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 41°F to 55°F (5°C to 13°C). 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 46°F to 61°F (8°C to 16°C) 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 61°F (16°C), 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 41°F to 55°F (5°C to 13°C).

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 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C).

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 vacation 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.

Traveling 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 2.44 inches (62mm). In Rome, the average rainfall is higher at 3.62 inches (92mm), while in Florence, it is about 2.17 inches (55mm).

Venice experiences around 1.57 to 1.97 inches (40-50mm) of rainfall on average, and in Naples, the average rainfall is approximately 1.97 to 2.36 inches (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.

Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February vacation.

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 honors 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 colorful celebration of the blooming of almond trees in spring with folk music from around the world.

Plan your trip with our Italy itineraries

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.

Visit Italy in other months

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