6 European Cities To Visit In February As A Solo Traveller

There are several great European cities and countries that are suitable for solo female travellers in February. Here are some recommendations:

Barcelona, Spain:

Barcelona offers a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful architecture, and a mild climate even in February. The city is known for its safety and has a variety of attractions and activities to explore.

There are several enjoyable things about visiting Barcelona in February:

Weather: Barcelona experiences mild and pleasant weather in February. The city enjoys an average temperature of around 14°C (57°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city’s attractions.
Fewer Tourists: Compared to the peak tourist season, February sees fewer visitors in Barcelona. This means shorter queues at popular attractions, less crowded streets, and a more relaxed atmosphere. You’ll have a chance to enjoy the city’s major sights without the usual hustle and bustle.
Festivals: Barcelona hosts various exciting festivals and events in February. One of the highlights is the Santa Eulàlia Festival, which celebrates the city’s co-patron saint. This festival features parades, live music, traditional Catalan dances, fireworks, and many other cultural activities. The festival creates a vibrant and festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Cultural Exploration: With fewer tourists around, February is an excellent time to explore Barcelona’s cultural landmarks, including awe-inspiring architecture such as the famous Sagrada Família and Park Güell designed by Antoni Gaudí. You can also visit museums, art galleries, and historical sites like the Gothic Quarter or Montjuïc Castle at a more leisurely pace.
Carnival Celebrations: February also hosts Carnival, a vibrant and colorful festival celebrated worldwide. While not as massive as the ones in Rio de Janeiro or Venice, Barcelona’s Carnival still offers lively parades, street parties, and costumes. The neighborhood of Sitges, just outside Barcelona, is particularly known for its extravagant and flamboyant Carnival celebrations.
Gastronomy: Barcelona is renowned for its culinary scene, and February allows you to savor the city’s diverse food offerings without the long wait times commonly found in peak tourist seasons. You can indulge in traditional Catalan cuisine, including tapas, seafood, paella, and delightful sweets like churros or crema Catalana.

Overall, visiting Barcelona in February offers a more relaxed, authentic, and culturally rich experience, thanks to the mild weather, fewer tourists, festive events, and opportunities to explore the city’s landmarks at your own pace.

Prague, Czech Republic:

Prague is a charming and picturesque city with rich history and stunning architecture. It’s a safe and popular destination for solo travellers, and you can enjoy a cozy winter atmosphere during February.

Visiting Prague in February can be a unique and enjoyable experience for several reasons:

Winter Wonderland: Prague is often covered in a beautiful blanket of snow during February, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. The snow-covered rooftops, cobblestone streets, and iconic landmarks, such as Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, become even more picturesque, offering great opportunities for photography.
Fewer Crowds: February is considered the off-peak season for tourism in Prague. With fewer tourists around, you can explore the city’s attractions more peacefully and without long queues. This makes it a great time to appreciate the city’s charm and beauty while avoiding the crowds that the city usually attracts during the busier months.
Winter Activities: Prague offers a range of winter activities in February. You can go ice skating in local rinks, such as the one in the O2 arena or the famous ice rink in Ovocný trh square near Old Town Square. Additionally, you can enjoy sledding or skiing at nearby locations, such as the beautiful Krkonoše Mountains.
Czech Cuisine: Prague is known for its delicious and hearty Czech cuisine. In February, you can relish in warm and comforting dishes like goulash, traditional soups, and roasted meats, which are perfect for the winter season. The city’s cozy cafes and beer halls are also ideal for enjoying local delicacies and a warm cup of mulled wine.
Cultural Events and Festivals: Prague hosts several cultural events and festivals in February. The Prague Carnival takes place during this time, featuring colorful parades, masked balls, and traditional Czech folk dances. The European Film Festival offers a chance to explore international cinema, and the Fire and Ice Festival showcases ice sculptures and pyrotechnic displays.
Lower Prices: As February is considered the low season for tourism, you can often find discounted prices for accommodation, flights, and attractions. This can make your trip more budget-friendly, allowing you to experience the city’s renowned sights and activities without breaking the bank.

Overall, visiting Prague in February provides an opportunity to explore the city’s winter charm, enjoy winter activities, experience traditional Czech cuisine, and appreciate the cultural events that take place during this time, all while avoiding the crowds and enjoying potential cost savings.

Vienna, Austria:

Vienna is known for its classical music, stunning palaces, and vibrant arts scene. It’s a safe and welcoming city for solo travellers, with plenty of museums, cafes, and historical sites to explore.

There are several enjoyable things about visiting Vienna in February:

Vienna Ball Season: February is the peak of Vienna’s ball season. If you enjoy the elegance and glamour of ballroom dancing, you can attend one of the numerous prestigious balls held in the city’s stunning palaces and concert halls. It’s a unique opportunity to experience Vienna’s rich cultural heritage and immerse yourself in the Viennese tradition.
Delicious Viennese Cuisine: Vienna is known for its delectable cuisine, and February offers the chance to indulge in some seasonal specialties. You can try traditional comfort foods like hearty stews, sausages, and scrumptious pastries such as Apfelstrudel or Kaiserschmarrn. The cold weather adds to the charm of enjoying warm, traditional Viennese dishes.
Ice Skating: Vienna has several beautiful outdoor ice-skating rinks that open during the winter months. Skating at places like the Rathausplatz or the Vienna Ice Dream (Wiener Eistraum) can be a magical experience, especially in the evenings when the city is lit up. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater, gliding on ice against the backdrop of Vienna’s architectural landmarks is a memorable activity.
Light Art Festival: In February, Vienna hosts its annual Light Festival, known as “Vienna Illuminates.” During this time, the city’s buildings, monuments, and parks are transformed into colorful and mesmerizing light installations. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore Vienna’s streets at night and witness the cityscape in a completely different light.
Fewer Crowds and Lower Prices: Compared to the peak tourist season, February generally sees fewer tourists, resulting in shorter lines and less crowded attractions. It provides a more relaxed and intimate experience when visiting popular sites such as the Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere, or St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Additionally, you might find lower prices on accommodations and flights during this off-peak season.
Vienna Coffeehouse Culture: Vienna’s coffeehouse culture is an essential part of the city’s identity. In February, you can cozy up in one of the famous Viennese coffeehouses, enjoy a cup of traditional coffee, and savor delicious pastries while watching the world go by. The warm and inviting atmosphere of these cafés offers a perfect respite from the winter weather outside.

Overall, visiting Vienna in February allows you to experience the city’s cultural offerings, unique events, and culinary delights while avoiding heavy tourist crowds and benefiting from potentially lower prices.

Amsterdam, Netherlands:

Amsterdam is a picturesque city with beautiful canals and world-famous museums. It’s a safe and friendly destination for solo travellers, and you can enjoy the city’s unique ambiance and cultural attractions.

There are several enjoyable things about visiting Amsterdam in February:

Winter Activities: Amsterdam offers various winter activities during February, such as ice skating, skiing, and sledding. You can enjoy the local ice rinks or even visit surrounding areas for skiing options.
Fewer Crowds: February is considered the off-season for tourism in Amsterdam. With fewer tourists, you can explore the city at a more relaxed pace, avoiding long queues at popular attractions.
Cultural Events: Amsterdam hosts several cultural events and festivals in February. The Amsterdam Light Festival displays beautiful light installations throughout the city, creating a magical atmosphere. The Imagine Film Festival, showcasing fantastic and imaginative cinema, also takes place in February.
Romantic Atmosphere: Amsterdam in February has a romantic vibe, perfect for couples. The city lights up with Valentine’s Day decorations, and you can enjoy intimate canal cruises, gourmet dinners, or explore the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood.
Cosy Cafes and Bars: As the weather can be chilly in February, Amsterdam’s cozy cafes and bars offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can try traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels and bitterballen while sipping a hot drink.
Museums and Art Galleries: Amsterdam is renowned for its museums and art galleries. Visiting in February allows you to enjoy these cultural attractions without the crowds. The Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House are some must-visit places.
Shopping: Amsterdam offers a wide range of shopping opportunities. In February, you can take advantage of winter sales and find unique items while exploring the city’s trendy neighborhoods like De Pijp and the Nine Streets.
Tulips at Flower Markets: Although tulip season starts towards the end of February, Amsterdam’s flower markets still offer a colorful sight. You can explore the markets and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance while admiring the beautiful blooms.

Overall, visiting Amsterdam in February provides a chance to experience the city’s cultural highlights, enjoy winter activities, and explore the attractions with fewer crowds.

Reykjavik, Iceland:

If you don’t mind colder temperatures, Reykjavik offers breath-taking landscapes, incredible natural wonders such as the Northern Lights, and a cozy winter atmosphere. It’s considered very safe, and you can join organized tours to explore the otherworldly beauty of the Icelandic countryside.

There are several enjoyable things about visiting Reykjavik in February:

Northern Lights: February is one of the best months to see the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Reykjavik. The longer nights and clear skies increase the chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon.
Winter landscapes: Reykjavik’s surroundings transform into a winter wonderland in February. The picturesque landscapes covered in snow offer breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities like snowshoeing, skiing, and exploring ice caves.
Hot Springs and Geothermal Spas: Reykjavik is known for its geothermal activity, and visiting hot springs such as the Blue Lagoon or local geothermal spas is a popular winter activity. Soaking in the warm waters while surrounded by snow-covered scenery can be a truly relaxing and unique experience.
Winter Festivals: Reykjavik hosts various winter festivals in February, such as the Winter Lights Festival and Dark Music Days. These festivals offer cultural events, concerts, light installations, and other exciting activities that showcase Icelandic art and music.
Fewer crowds: Compared to the summer months, February sees fewer tourists in Reykjavik. This means you can enjoy attractions, restaurants, and activities without the hustle and bustle of peak season, providing a more tranquil and intimate experience.
Icelandic cuisine: February is a great time to indulge in authentic Icelandic cuisine. Local restaurants offer traditional dishes like Icelandic lamb, fish stew, and skyr (a traditional yogurt-like dessert). Foodies can also enjoy the annual Icelandic Food and Fun Festival, where top chefs create innovative dishes using local ingredients.
Unique Winter Events: Reykjavik hosts special winter events like the Winter Lights Festival’s Fireworks Display and the Reykjavik International Games. These events add to the festive atmosphere and provide opportunities to witness unique cultural celebrations.

Overall, visiting Reykjavik in February allows you to experience the magic of winter in Iceland, witness the Northern Lights, enjoy various winter festivals, and indulge in Icelandic cuisine—all without the large crowds of the summer season.

Lisbon, Portugal:

Lisbon is a vibrant and colorful city with a rich history, stunning viewpoints, and friendly locals. It’s safe and welcoming for solo travellers, and you can enjoy the city’s beautiful architecture, delicious food, and lively atmosphere.

There are several enjoyable things about visiting Lisbon in February. Here are a few reasons why:

Mild Weather: Lisbon experiences mild temperatures in February, making it pleasant for exploring the city. The average high temperature is around 15 °C (59 °F), attracting visitors who prefer milder climates.
Fewer Crowds: Compared to the peak tourist season, February is considered a quieter period, with fewer crowds. This means shorter queues at popular attractions, less crowded cafes and restaurants, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.
Festivities: Lisbon celebrates Carnival in February, which is an exciting time to visit. The city comes alive with colorful parades, street parties, and vibrant costumes. It’s a great opportunity to witness Portuguese traditions and join in the festive spirit.
Lower Prices: February is considered a shoulder season in Lisbon, resulting in lower prices for accommodation, flights, and tourist activities. This can make your trip more affordable and provide a better value for money.
Sightseeing Opportunities: With fewer crowds and milder temperatures, February provides an excellent opportunity to explore Lisbon’s iconic landmarks, such as the Lisbon Cathedral, Belem Tower, and the Jeronimos Monastery. These attractions are typically less crowded, allowing for a more enjoyable and relaxed visit.
Culinary Delights: Lisbon is renowned for its gastronomy, and February is a great time to immerse yourself in local culinary experiences. Enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes, seafood specialties, and try their famous pastel de nata (custard tart) in cozy cafes and restaurants.
Romantic Atmosphere: Lisbon’s narrow cobblestone streets, charming neighborhoods, and stunning viewpoints create a romantic ambiance. The mild February weather, coupled with fewer crowds, can make Lisbon an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a Valentine’s Day celebration.

Overall, visiting Lisbon in February offers a pleasant experience with milder weather, fewer crowds, unique festivities, and an opportunity to explore the city at a more relaxed pace.

Is it considerable?

Yes, but there are pros and cons of traveling alone to European cities/countries in February. Here are some reasons:

Pros:

Lower tourist crowds: February is considered the off-season for many European cities, which means you’ll encounter fewer tourists. This can result in shorter lines at popular attractions and a more authentic experience as you interact with locals.
Lower prices: During the off-season, prices for accommodation, flights, and attractions tend to be lower than peak season. This can make your trip more budget-friendly, allowing you to save money or spend it on other experiences.
Cultural events: Many European cities host events and festivals in February, such as Carnival in Venice or the Berlin Film Festival. Traveling alone can give you the flexibility to participate in these unique cultural experiences and immerse yourself in the local customs.
Scenic beauty: Several European cities boast picturesque landscapes and architectural marvels that look particularly stunning in winter. From snow-covered mountains in Switzerland to beautiful castles in Germany, travelling in February allows you to witness the beauty of these destinations in a different light.

Cons:

Cold weather: February is usually the coldest month in many European cities. If you dislike or are not accustomed to cold temperatures, this might not be the ideal time for you to visit. You will need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for sub-zero temperatures in some regions.
Limited daylight: The winter season means shorter daylight hours, resulting in less time to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. You may need to plan your itinerary accordingly and be aware that some attractions might close earlier than usual due to the reduced daylight.
Some attractions may be closed: In smaller cities or less touristy areas, some attractions or establishments may be closed or have reduced hours during the off-season. It’s important to research ahead of time to ensure that the places you want to visit will be open during your trip.
Less vibrant nightlife: The off-season can sometimes result in a quieter nightlife scene, with fewer events and parties happening. If you are looking for a lively nightlife experience, you might find it more challenging to find bustling clubs and bars during this time.

Conclusion

Remember, regardless of the destination you choose, take basic precautions to ensure your safety as a solo traveller, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding unsafe areas at night, and staying connected with someone trustworthy back home.