Tuscany in February (2026): Weather, Things to Do & Travel Tips
Timeless Wanderers: Posted November 22, 2025
What to Expect in Tuscany in February
February is one of the quietest months in Tuscany, which is exactly why we enjoy travelling here at this time of year.
You won’t find the summer crowds in Florence, Siena, or the smaller hilltop towns, and you’ll have much more space to explore at your own pace.
Cafés and restaurants are still busy with locals, but the overall pace is noticeably slower.
The weather can be changeable.
Some days are cold and grey, while others can be bright and sunny enough to sit outside for a coffee.
You’ll need a warm jacket and layers, but don’t be surprised if you get some beautiful winter days along the way.
February is also a good month for your budget.
Accommodation is generally cheaper than during the main tourist season, and flights can be less expensive too.
And Tuscany isn’t completely quiet in February.
Carnevale brings parades, costumes, music, and celebrations to towns across the region, with Viareggio being one of the biggest and best-known celebrations.
For us, one of the best things about February is seeing a different side of Tuscany.
The vineyards are bare, the countryside is quieter, and the towns feel much more local than they do in summer.
If you don’t mind cooler and changeable weather and would rather avoid crowds, February can be a very good time to visit Tuscany.
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After more than 20 years of travelling to Tuscany—and loving it so much we decided to make it our home—we now live here and explore the region at a relaxed, local pace.
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Why Visit Tuscany in February?
February isn’t the obvious choice for a Tuscany trip, but there are some real advantages to visiting at this time of year.
The biggest one is the lack of crowds.
Florence and Siena are much easier to explore, with shorter waits at major museums and more space to enjoy the historic streets and piazzas.
The smaller towns can be especially enjoyable in winter.
Pienza, Volterra, and Montepulciano are quieter than they are during the warmer months, giving you more time to wander, stop for lunch, and take in the views without having to work around large groups of visitors.
The countryside has a completely different look too.
Vineyards are dormant, the hills are often green after the winter rain, and the landscape feels much quieter than it does during harvest season.
Wine tasting is still possible, although some wineries operate reduced winter hours or require advance bookings.
It’s always worth checking before setting off.
And then there is Carnevale.
February brings celebrations across Tuscany, from smaller local events to the famous carnival in Viareggio, with elaborate floats, costumes, music, and plenty of people turning out to enjoy the festivities.
For us, that’s what makes February interesting.
You get the quieter side of Tuscany, but there are still plenty of things happening if you know where to look.
*Read my full guide*
Viareggio, Italy: Best Things to Do (2026 Guide)
Tuscany Weather in February
February is still very much winter in Tuscany, but temperatures are generally manageable — cold enough for coats and scarves, but not icy.
You’ll likely experience a mix of sunny days, cloudy spells, and some rain.
Typical February temperatures:
Daytime: 8–12°C (46–54°F)
Evening: 2–5°C (35–41°F)
Coldest mornings: occasionally down to 0–1°C (32–34°F)
What the weather feels like
Crisp mornings with mist in the countryside
Soft winter light — fantastic for photography
Cooler evenings perfect for warm dinners and red wine
Variable conditions: sunny one day, drizzly the next
Snow is rare in cities like Florence and Siena, but possible (though light) in higher hill towns or the Apennines.
February also tends to have fewer rainy days compared to November and December, though showers are still possible.
8 Reasons to Visit Tuscany in February
We’ve spent plenty of time in Tuscany during the quieter months, and February has some real advantages if you don’t mind cooler weather.
1. Fewer Crowds
February is one of the quietest months of the year.
Florence is easier to explore, popular sights have shorter queues, and towns such as Siena and Pisa feel much less crowded.
2. Better Prices
Accommodation and flights can be considerably cheaper than during the main tourist season.
It’s also easier to find availability at restaurants and hotels without booking months ahead.
3. Carnevale
February brings Carnevale celebrations across Tuscany.
The biggest is the famous Carnival of Viareggio, but smaller towns also hold their own parades and local celebrations.
4. Long Tuscan Lunches
Winter is a great excuse to slow down over lunch.
Look for traditional dishes such as ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, wild boar ragù, and other hearty Tuscan specialities.
5. More Local Life
With fewer visitors around, you’ll see more of everyday Tuscany. Cafés and restaurants are filled mainly with locals, and smaller towns feel much less focused on tourism.
6. Easier Museum Visits
If you’ve ever stood in a long summer queue for the Uffizi or Accademia, you’ll appreciate February.
Major museums are generally much easier to visit without spending hours waiting outside.
7. A Different Countryside
The vineyards are dormant, the trees are bare, and winter weather can create a completely different look across the Tuscan hills.
On clear days, the low winter light can be beautiful.
8. A Romantic February Break
If you’re travelling around Valentine’s Day, Tuscany makes a lovely choice for a winter getaway.
Choose a hotel with a good restaurant, spend a long afternoon exploring a town, and finish the day with a leisurely dinner.
Our Take
February won’t suit everyone.
If warm weather and long days outside are important to you, wait for spring.
But if you prefer fewer crowds, lower prices, and a slower trip, February is definitely worth considering.
Read This Next
Best Things to Do in Tuscany (2026 Guide)
What to pack
Warm coat
Scarf, gloves, and a beanie (especially for mornings/evenings)
Waterproof shoes
Layers for flexible days
A compact umbrella
A warmer evening outfit if you plan on dinners outside the city center (old stone towns get chilly)
Festivals & Events in Tuscany in February
February may be quiet, but it certainly isn’t dull. Here are some of the key events you’ll likely encounter:
1. Carnevale (Carnival Season)
Late January through February
Tuscany celebrates Carnival with parades, floats, masks, costume parties, and plenty of festive food. Every town does it differently, but here are the main highlights:
Viareggio Carnival
The most famous carnival in Tuscany, known for its enormous papier-mâché floats, parades along the promenade, music, food stalls, and fireworks. It runs across several weekends.
Foiano della Chiana Carnival
One of Europe’s oldest carnivals, known for its giant handcrafted floats and strong local tradition.
Pietrasanta Carnival
Much smaller but very community-oriented — perfect if you want a local celebration.
Florence Carnevale
Florence hosts various smaller celebrations, pop-up events, children’s parades, and themed museum activities.
2. Valentine’s Day
14 February
Restaurants offer special menus, hotels add romantic packages, and towns like Florence, Siena, and Lucca feel especially magical in the winter air.
3. Wine & Food Experiences
February is the season of comfort food in Tuscany. Expect:
Truffle dishes (especially in the hills of Siena)
Slow-cooked stews
Ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and hearty soups
Local red wines served with winter pairings
Olive oil tastings from the recent harvest
Some wineries remain open for winter visits, especially those with indoor tasting rooms.
4. Art Exhibitions & Museum Events
Winter is exhibition season in Florence and Siena. With fewer crowds, February is one of the best months to enjoy:
The Uffizi
Accademia Gallery
Palazzo Pitti
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
Museo Nazionale del Bargello
Often, these institutions host winter-specific exhibits or extended evening hours.
Best Things to Do in Tuscany in February
February may be quieter in Tuscany, but there is still plenty to do. In fact, cooler temperatures and fewer visitors can make some experiences even easier to enjoy.
Here are some of our favourite things to do during a February trip.
1. Explore Florence Without the Summer Crowds
February is a great time to explore Florence’s major sights without the long queues you can expect during the warmer months.
Visit the Uffizi Gallery, see Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, climb the Duomo, walk across Ponte Vecchio, and spend time exploring neighbourhoods such as Santa Croce and Oltrarno.
2. Experience Carnevale
February is Carnevale season in Italy, and Tuscany has some excellent celebrations.
The Carnival of Viareggio is the biggest and most famous, known for its enormous floats and lively parades.
Smaller towns and villages also hold their own events, so check local dates if you’d like to include one during your trip.
3. Visit Siena
Siena is much quieter in February, making it a good time to explore the historic centre.
Visit Piazza del Campo, see the incredible Cathedral, and take your time wandering the narrow streets without the crowds you’ll find in summer.
4. Explore Tuscany’s Hilltop Towns
February is a lovely time to visit towns such as Montepulciano, Pienza, Cortona, and Volterra.
You’ll find fewer visitors, easier parking, and more space to explore the streets and viewpoints.
Just check opening hours before you go, as some attractions operate shorter winter hours.
5. Take a Tuscan Cooking Class
A cooking class is perfect for a cooler February day.
You’ll spend a few hours indoors learning how to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes, then sit down and enjoy what you’ve made.
It’s also a good way to experience Tuscan food beyond simply eating in restaurants.
6. Soak in a Tuscan Thermal Bath
Winter is one of our favourite times to enjoy Tuscany’s thermal waters.
Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo, Saturnia, and Chianciano Terme are all options, although opening arrangements can vary in winter, so check ahead before travelling.
7. Visit a Tuscan Winery
Wine tasting doesn’t stop in winter. Many wineries continue to welcome visitors, although some operate reduced hours or require advance reservations.
February is a particularly good time for cellar visits and tastings of Tuscany’s famous reds, including Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Our Tip:
If you’re planning to visit wineries in February, always book ahead rather than simply turning up. Winter opening hours can be limited.
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Winter City Break
Day 1: Florence – Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, evening Christmas market stroll.
Day 2: Day trip to Siena for the market and Gothic architecture.
Day 3: Lucca’s city walls by bicycle and hot chocolate in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
5-Day Countryside Escape
Days 1–2: Florence highlights.
Day 3: Chianti for winery tastings and olive oil sampling.
Day 4: Val d’Orcia — Pienza and Montepulciano under a winter mist.
Day 5: Hot springs soak in Bagno Vignoni.
How to Spend 7 Magical Days in Tuscany by Car
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in March.
Florence in February: What to Expect
Florence is truly lovely in February.
The city is calm and elegant, with locals going about their routines and only a handful of travellers exploring the sights.
You can walk the historic center in peace, enjoy restaurants without reservations, and easily visit museums that are normally packed.
What February feels like in Florence
Cool mornings, crisp afternoons
Easier restaurant bookings
A more intimate experience of the city
Warm cafes and wine bars perfect for winter evenings
A good month for photography — fewer crowds, softer light
Museums & Galleries
February is one of the best times of year to visit the Uffizi and Accademia. You can take your time, enjoy the art, and actually see the details.
Valentine’s Day in Florence
Florence is naturally romantic — the Arno at sunset, rooftop bars, candlelit trattorias.
February is perfect if you want a quieter, more intimate visit.
Tours of Florence
Joining a tour can help save you time waiting in line, allow you to learn more about Florence from a knowledgeable guide, and introduce you to sights that you may not be able to do on your own.
Here are some of the best tours in Florence.
This small group tour is the perfect way to get the most out of your visit to the Uffizi Gallery.
Climb the dome, visit the Baptistery, and tour the Opera del Duomo Museum with an experienced guide on this small group tour.
Take a guided tour of the Uffizi and Accademia.
Go shopping in the central market in Florence and then learn how to cook a Tuscan meal. This tour gets nothing but rave reviews.
Take a food tour of Florence or a 2-hour guided sightseeing bike tour.
Day Trips from Florence
Where to Stay in Florence — Hotel Recommendations
Luxury
Portrait Firenze — River-front suites, handcrafted interiors, and one of the best Ponte Vecchio views in the city; superb for a romantic, high-service stay.
Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy — Iconic 5-star on Piazza della Repubblica, minutes from the Duomo and Uffizi; classic luxe, great concierge service.
Mid-Range
Grand Hotel Minerva — Rooftop terrace and pool (seasonal), easy walk to Santa Maria Novella and the Duomo — excellent mix of comfort and location.
Hotel L’Orologio — Stylish, themed hotel on Piazza Santa Maria Novella; compact, polished rooms and very walkable to Florence’s highlights.
Boutique
Helvetia & Bristol Firenze – Starhotels Collezione — Elegant palazzo setting, antique details, and refined service — a short stroll from the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
Palazzo Vecchietti – Residenza d’Epoca — A tiny historic palazzo turned luxury-boutique property; feels like living in a Renaissance home. Fantastic location near Palazzo Strozzi.
Budget / Hostel
Ostello Bello Firenze — Highly rated, social hostel in the heart of Florence — private rooms available if you want budget with style and great communal spaces.
Hostel Archi Rossi — Simple, clean, and very central (near Santa Maria Novella train station) — great for budget travellers who want to be in the thick of things.
You can read my full guide on hotel recommendations and insights!
“Where to Stay in Florence : Best Neighbourhoods, Hotels & Insider Tips”
FAQs — Tuscany in February
Is February a good time to visit Tuscany?
Yes — fewer tourists, lower prices, and authentic local life. It’s ideal if you like quieter museums, cosy meals, and winter light over the hills.What’s the weather like in February?
Expect cool days (around 8–12°C) and chilly evenings (around 2–5°C). Mornings can be misty; higher hills and Apennines may see snow.Will there be festivals or events in February?
Yes — Carnevale runs through February (town parades, masks, and floats). There are also Valentine’s specials, local food events, and some winter exhibitions in Florence.Do attractions stay open in February?
Major museums and sights in Florence, Siena, and Pisa are open year-round. Some smaller rural attractions and agriturismi may have reduced hours — check ahead.Can I visit wineries and do tastings?
Yes — many wineries remain open for winter tastings and cellar tours, though some require appointments in the low season.Are thermal springs a good option in February?
Absolutely — hot springs like Saturnia Hot Springs and Bagno Vignoni are particularly lovely in winter (warm water + cool air = magic).Should I rent a car in February?
A car is great for countryside exploring, but check weather (fog, occasional frost) and be comfortable driving narrow regional roads. Trains work well between major cities.What should I pack for February in Tuscany?
Layered clothing: warm coat, sweaters, scarf, gloves, waterproof shoes/boots, and an umbrella. A smart outfit for dinners helps if you plan on nicer restaurants.Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in February.
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Do You Need Travel Insurance for Tuscany?
(Short Answer: Yes — It’s Still a Smart Idea)
Travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit Tuscany, but it’s one of the smartest things you can have when travelling in Italy.
Even in a relaxed destination like Tuscany, things can go wrong — from delayed flights and lost luggage to medical issues, rental car damage, or unexpected trip cancellations. And while Italy has excellent healthcare, medical treatment for visitors can still be costly without proper coverage.
As long-term travellers living in Italy, we’ve found SafetyWing to be a practical option for trips around Europe, offering coverage for medical care, travel delays, and lost belongings without complicated fine print.
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Final Thoughts
Tuscany in February isn’t the obvious choice, but that’s exactly why it’s so special.
The crowds are gone, the prices are lower, and the region feels wonderfully authentic.
Museums are more enjoyable, hill towns are peaceful, and the winter light makes even a simple walk feel cinematic.
And then there’s Carnevale — a burst of colour and joy that breaks up the quiet of winter.
If you’re dreaming of a trip where you can really take your time, enjoy local life, and sink into the charm of Tuscany at your own pace, February is one of the best months of the year to visit.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS – TRAINLINE – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.