Thinking about Florence in February? While the temperatures are cooler, this time of year has lots to offer – and provides more of a local feel.
February has short chilly days, but they can be brilliant and sunny and often crowd-free
One of the biggest perks?
Far fewer crowds… and this is just the beginning.
Florence in February – at a glance
While not as calm as January, strolling the streets in February is still very pleasant – and the smaller crowds make sightseeing much more enjoyable.
Here’s what you need to know about coming to visit Florence this time of year:
- Where to stay in Florence in February
- What’s the weather like? Does it rain or snow in February Florence?
- What to pack for visiting Florence in February? What to wear in February in Florence?
- Is February a good time to visit Florence?
- What food is in season in February in Florence?
- What are some things to do in Florence in February?
Where to stay in Florence in February
The Oltrarno is a very inviting place to stay in February, and the Santo Spirito neighborhood is perfect if you’re looking for more of a local vibe.
This is one of my absolute favorite areas, filled with local bars and restaurants, weekly markets on Sunday’s, and a perfect example of slow Italian living.
Some perfect spots for aperitivo in Santo Spirito include: Volume, Loggia Rooftop, Spirituum, and Il Santino.
Spirituum sets the mood for a Valentine’s Day drink
The neighborhood is just across the Ponte Vecchio from the historic center, so you can still reach the main museums/top attractions easily by foot. There are no large hotels in the area, so it’s best to find a cute apartment, grab some essentials, and get a feel for true Italian life in Florence.
February Florence Italy weather
If you’re hoping for noticeably warmer weather than January, February in Florence may fall a bit short. Snow is unlikely, but the winter chill the city is known for will still be very present.
Rain is common in February but one up-side is that it can create interesting perspectives to photograph
Rain is more likely during this month, and while there are some bright sunny days mixed-in, it’s best to be more cautious when preparing for your trip.
Generally, February in Florence can be described as cold and very wet, (stay with me – we are getting to the good parts soon), and average temperatures sit in the low 40s °F (mid-single digits °C), with daytime highs reaching the low 50s °F (low teens °C).
Organize your transport easily and stress-free for any trip to Florence and Tuscany:
What to pack for Florence in February
Packing tips for February in Florence
Since the weather is on the colder side, it’s especially important to pack for comfort – while also keeping in mind that rain is frequent.
My favorite companion in February is my compact umbrella, I carry it with me everywhere, and it has come in handy more than once. Plus it’s so small I barely even notice it’s there.
A scarf and a pair of gloves are true lifesavers when exploring the city – I always find it’s better to have them and not need them than to wish I had packed them at all.
Another essential is a nice jacket. This might seem obvious, but the right jacket can truly make or break your trip.
Otherwise, similar to our other winter packing guides, lots of warm layers are important to have on your trip. Thicker sweaters/pullovers, as well as leggings and tights, should also make it on the list.
Discover all our must-have items for any trip to Italy in the winter:
General Florence packing tips
These are a few of my essential packing recommendations, any time of year:
- Sunglasses! Yes it can be rainy in Florence occasionally, but the sun will be shining more often than not so you’ll want a good pair of sunglasses.
- Any medications you take, along with a list of these medications. I would recommend keeping these with you in your carry-on in a dedicated organizer, rather than packing them in your checked luggage.
- Photocopies or clear photographs saved on your phone of your passport – much safer than carrying your actual passport around Florence!
- Plug converters for your dual-voltage appliances. Voltage in Italy is 220, and in the US and some other countries, it’s 110. Most electronic devices will default to dual voltage, but you will need a plug adapter as the plug shapes are different here. This universal adapter covers you in multiple locations, perfect for travel to different parts of the world.
- Carrying a well-stocked first-aid kit gives you peace of mind when traveling. I always like having one with me when I travel, it’s very handy for when you need something quickly.
Finally, travel insurance isn’t something to pack per se, but it is something you should not forget!
It is not uncommon these days for visitors to have to deal with lost luggage or cancelled or delayed flights, and your credit card coverage may not be as extensive as you think.
Chances are you are not covered for what you need when these things happen!
What to wear in Florence in February
Just because the temperature drops doesn’t mean you have to freeze on your trip. With the right layers, Florence’s winter weather is easy to handle.
A good base layer makes all the difference. My go-to is a lightweight cashmere long-sleeve layered under a cozy turtleneck and a warm puffer.
It’s comfortable, not bulky, and perfect for full days of walking and sightseeing…even on the coldest February day.
No matter when you visit Italy, here are some essential things we recommend never leaving home without:
Use the arrows or scroll to view all recommendations
Is February a good time to visit Florence?
Arguably the best part about Florence during this month is the atmosphere. The city feels much quieter after the holiday rush, which allows for a much more intimate experience.
February is a great time to explore Florence and visit the iconic sights that made the city famous. Living here year-round, I’ve found it’s one of the best months to experience popular attractions without peak-season crowds.
That said, I still recommend booking top sights in advance – many offer online booking perks, and it’s always better to be safe.
February is also my favorite time to stop by Vivoli for an affogato: the lines are way shorter than in high season, and it’s just as good (if not better) when enjoyed without the wait.
Visit Vivoli for some of the best gelato/affogato in Florence
How crowded is Florence during February?
Early in the month Florence is pretty quiet, especially mid-week. Florence is typically busy on and around Valentine’s Day on February 14, as it is a popular destination for romantic city breaks.
Even in February you might find long lines at the Uffizi Gallery so it’s best to pre-book
Towards the end of the month, the city starts to get busier as Italians celebrate Carnival season.
However, even when it is busy for February, there are far fewer crowds than there are in the summer. So if you’re looking to escape the crowds of people at the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Galleria Accademia and Ponte Vecchio, February is an ideal time of year to visit Florence.
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Florentine dishes to try in February
February in Florence really leans into traditional Tuscan cooking. With fewer crowds and a calmer pace, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the classic dishes many locals enjoy – simple and hearty meals.
One standout ingredient in February is Cavallo Nero (Tuscan black kale), which can be found in many soups and sides in traditional trattoria’s.
Another must-try is bean-based dishes, which is a staple of Tuscan cuisine. Plates like fagioli all’uccelletto and white beans drizzled in oil, are great additions and pair perfectly with the colder weather.
Stop by Trattoria Nella – right in Centro Storico – for a cozy lunch with Tuscan favorites
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What to do during February in Florence
February Special dates in Florence
February may be winter, but there’s no shortage of things to do in Florence – here are some events and seasonal highlights to look out for…
February 1 – Carnevale di Firenze
Carnevale di Firenze is Florence’s annual Carnival celebration, known for its refined, historic character.
Rather than large street parties, the city marks Carnevale with elegant masked events, cultural performances, and celebrations inspired by Renaissance-era traditions.
In 2026, Florence’s main Carnevale festivities are concentrated on January 31 and February 1.
Highlights include the Grand Ball (Regine a Palazzo) held at Palazzo Vecchio and a Carnival parade through Florence’s historic center.
While Carnevale continues nationally later into February, Florence’s celebrations are intentionally focused on these select dates, offering a more intimate and curated experience.
February 14 – Valentine’s Day
Florence is one of the best cities to celebrate Valentine’s Day (I may be a bit biased). A cozy local trattoria or wine bar is my ideal setting for a more intimate evening.
Carnevale in Florence features masked parades through the historic center
For something extra special, a romantic stroll through Boboli Gardens, watching the sunset from Ponte Santa Trinita, or even a pasta-making class are all wonderful ways to make the day memorable.
Select hotels across the city also offer special experiences for Valentine’s Day. One standout option is Hotel Brunelleschi, which hosts a candlelight dinner with a curated set menu – perfect for your romantic evening.
Free Things to do in Florence in February
One of the best experiences in Florence happens on the first Sunday of every month, known as the Domenica al Museo.
You can see the Birth of Venus by Botticelli in the Uffizi Gallery for free once a month
On this day, many of Florence’s state-run museums offer free entry, making February an ideal time to visit places like the Medici Chapels, without the crowds… or the ticket price. It’s a great way to explore a different side of Florence while keeping your trip budget-friendly.
More ideas for things to do in Florence in February
February is a great month to slow down and learn something hands-on. A Tuscan cooking or pasta-making class is especially enjoyable in winter, focusing on hearty seasonal dishes like handmade pasta, sauces, and traditional desserts – plus, it’s a cozy indoor activity for colder or rainy days.
Here are some options to explore:
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To sum up…
Florence in February is a good time to visit if you’re interested in making the most of the museums, galleries and churches in the city. The colder weather means it’s still pretty quiet so you can explore without waiting in long lines. It can get busy around Valentine’s Day however so if you want to celebrate with your partner, be sure to book your restaurants in advance.
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