Christmas has long since gone, January is nearly over, a February European break is definitely in order! Half term is fast approaching surprisingly quickly and it’s time for a trip. Even though February half term is arguably one of the least popular times for European travel, it is typically one of the least expensive.
I have always looked forward to a trip at this time of year. It is a chance to get out of town and potentially find out where to go in Europe in February for sun! Here are five different recommendations for fantastic February half term travel spots in Europe.
Lisbon – a fantastic city to visit in winter
Lisbon is a picturesque city, which can be explored over a weekend. Without a doubt it is worth extending your stay for a day or two, to see Sintra and its colourful castle, Cascais and Cabo de Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Through jump in tours , we hired a driver to take us to these locations on the same day. This was unquestionably the best choice; it prevented parking problems and had the advantage of a knowledgeable local.
Lisbon itself has a lot to offer. To begin with head to Martin Moniz Square and take the number 28 tram. Get off at Largo das Portas or Miradouro Luzia for amazing views across Lisbon. Castello de Sao Jorge is close by and is definitely worth exploring.
Walk down through the areas of Alfama and Baixa, you will find a lunch opportunity here. On the other hand you may prefer to eat on Rua Augusta, the main shopping street. Continue along the river to reach Lisbon’s two main squares; Rossio and Praca da Figueira.
Other destinations a little further out from the centre include Belem tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Parque Design Nacoes.
Whilst in town, don’t forget to sample some Ginjinha cherry liquor, which is particularly good served in a chocolate cup. Additionally, take the opportunity to taste an authentic Pasteis de Nata; Portugal’s famous custard tart.
Malta – a highly recommended choice for a February European Break
Malta has long been a popular European destination from the UK. It is pleasantly warm in February half term and on our last visit temperatures hit 20oC. Hiring a car means a 3-day weekend break gives enough time to explore much of the island as well as its smaller sister island, Gozo.
Valletta, the capital is a compact city of sand-coloured buildings and beautiful balconies; a pleasant place to amble around for a few hours. It is particularly worth visiting the saluting battery, St Johns Co-Cathedral and Lascaris war rooms; underground tunnel war HQ. Additionally, visit the three cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua just across the water, each with their forts and churches to explore.
Around 30 minutes drive from Valletta, is the silent city of Mdina, the formal medieval capital of Malta, another place you can happily stroll around for as long or short as you want.
Further places of interest in Malta include the Tarxian temple (Mnajdra and Hagar Qim), St. Pauls Bay and Marsaxlokk with its beautiful harbour and colourful boats.
We also spent a day discovering Gozo, an island with a stunning coastline which has much to offer. Its small capital Rabat features a citadel, which is a delight to explore, along with the large Church of St. John the Baptist at Xewkija. Marsalforn salt pans are worth a visit for the unique scenery. In addition spend time on the beautiful coastline, including the blue caves and the remains of the Azure window, which sadly collapsed in 2017.
Sardinia – Great for a February European Break.
Sardinia is a beautiful island off the coast of Italy surrounded by blue and green seas, with direct flights available all year round. You won’t cover the whole island in a weekend but by hiring a car it gives enough time to explore Cagliari and its surroundings.
Cagliari is the capital and is easily explored. Firstly visit the Castello region, along with the Cathedral, Archaeological Museum and Bastione de San Remy; well worth the climb for its amazing views. Be sure to continue down the hill from here to San Benedetto market, with its fresh Sardinian produce.
Additionally, not far outside Cagliari Parco Naturale Regionale Molentargius Saline, which is populated by flamingos. The place is particularly on a Sunday afternoon locals enjoying both the sun and beach restaurants. It is a good place to walk, relax and find some good food and drink.
Further afield from Cagliari, there is a beautiful coast road out towards Calasetta, with rugged beaches and beautiful views. It is also worth stopping at Nora and its archaeological site, an ancient pre-roman and roman town on a peninsula near Pula; here you can take in the history as well as admire the beautiful views.
East of Cagliari is Calamosca beach with its perfect views of the Torre di Calamosca. Following on from here there is a beautiful road east towards Villasimius, where a number of beautiful sandy beaches can be found. One of these was a perfect place for our lunch; I would suggest taking a picnic lunch as we did when leaving the main areas out of season. Sardinia is a great option for some February half term sun!
Berlin – Plenty to See and do on a February European Break
Although not as warm as my previous suggestions, Berlin has been added because of the vast number of museums and attractions that can be visited. Many of them are indoors, so even if the weather is wet and cold you do not have to spend the entire day outside.
Berlin, is a city rich in history, having been significantly impacted by the war and its aftermath. Not to be missed is the iconic Brandenburg gate, which once divided east and west Germany. The Reichstag building, seat of the German Government is nearby. If you book in advance, it is free to visit the roof and the dome for some spectacular views over Berlin.
Museum Island, surrounded by the river, with its 5 separate museums and the cathedral, again with fabulous rooftop views is also a great place to visit.
Additionally, the GDR museum, Tranenplast museum, Jewish museum and the German Spy museum all come highly recommended as they give an insight into Berlin’s past.
If you are happy outside in the colder weather, then a visit to Checkpoint Charlie, a walk along the East side gallery or a stroll through the large Tier Garten are all a must.
If you have an inner nerd then be sure to visit the Computerspiele museum which is full of historical computer games.
With so many flights available, Berlin is often a cheaper destination to reach during February half term.
Berlin is a fascinating city which is easy to navigate thanks to its metro system. It is well worth a visit and while you are there be sure you to try a beer along with currywurst and chips!
Stay in the UK – don’t rule it out!
‘There is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing’. For this reason, I have included the UK with its many options as one of my choices for a February European break. It may mean packing your wellies and raincoats, but there is always the chance of crisp and chilly sunny days during February half term.
The UK has a vast array of cities just waiting to be explored. Living close to London, this has always been our local city to visit, yet every time we always discover something we haven’t seen before. Definitely visit the popular attractions, museums, art galleries and markets. In addition, stroll along the riverbanks and parks, which are beautiful on a crisp but sunny February half term day. As well as this, visit the endless coffee shops, pubs and restaurants, and discover the more unusual things London has to offer.
City Breaks
The list of UK cities to visit is also endless; on a sunny winter day, York is a particularly beautiful place to visit with its cobbled streets, cathedral and museums. Consider Liverpool to discover its fascinating history or to go on a Beatles tour. Cardiff has some great shopping and is a good base to start exploring the Welsh castles, coastline and even the Brecon Beacons.
Coasts, Mountains and Countryside
It is not just the UK’s major cities which make a fantastic destination for a February half term break. Additionally, the country is full of historical sights, castles, stately homes and gardens, many of which are open in February. Day trips to the coast include Brighton, Whitstable or Walton on the Naze. Popular areas, such as Devon, Cornwall, the Lake District, Northumberland and the Peak District (to name just a few) are often most beautiful in the quieter season.
So, wrap up warm, be prepared for any weather, get out and about and enjoy the UK; you never know you may strike it lucky and be walking around in 15oC of sunshine and if not, you can always cheer yourself up with some fish and chips!
For a February half term breaks an apartments through Booking.com, Vrbo or Airbnb is an especially good option. As the days are much shorter in February this makes for a more comfortable evening and also gives the option of self-catering for some or all meals.
For more ideas or February European break suggestions then please contact me.