Having explored Portugal for half a decade, I’ve discovered that each month brings a unique flavor to the country, February in the Algarve is no exception. With its blend of mild weather, local culture, and much quieter tourist spots, February in this beautiful coastal region is a delight. Here’s 9 reasons why you should consider the Algarve for your February getaway!
Pleasant Weather for Exploring
First up is of course the weather. While the rest of Europe is still quite chilly, the Algarve enjoys much milder temperatures in February. The Algarve usually has temperatures, often around 15-18°C (59-64°F). Usually with around 6 hours of sunshine a day. A great place to get a boost of winter sunshine!
It’s cool enough for comfortable exploration but warm enough to enjoy outdoor cafes, and walks along the beach, or along cliffs. Plus, the occasional rainy day brings a cozy charm of its own. The Algarve has a Mediterranean climate, which means that winters are pleasantly mild, and the summers are hot and dry. When it does rain, its not often for more than an hour or two!
Affordable Travel
February is still the low season in the Algarve, and often seen as its quietest. You will find some of the cheapest accommodation, flights and car rental available. It’s the ideal time for budget travelers or anyone looking to stay at the Algarve’s luxury resorts without the summer prices!
Almond Blossoms in Bloom
In February, many parts of the Algarve transform into a sea of white and pink as the almond trees bloom. It’s the perfect excuse to head inland and discover many of the unique walking paths and trails that are well off the usual tourist circuit. The almond blossoms are accompanied by their own legend – brought to the Algarve by the Moors to make a white landscape during winter!
Carnival Celebrations
February in the Algarve means Carnival time! This is when towns like Loulé come alive with colorful parades, lively music, and dancing in the streets. Loulé’s Carnival is widely regarded as the biggest, and longest running carnival in Portugal. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the joyous side of Portuguese culture, and everyone’s welcome to join in the fun.
Empty Beaches
You’ve probably seen photos of places like Praia da Rocha and Praia do Camilo packed with people. During February in the Algarve, the beaches are less crowded, often almost empty. If you’re a fan of beach walks with nothing but the sound of the ocean, then now is the time to explore all of the famous hotspots.
Golfing with Less Crowds
The Algarve’s golf courses continue to be a draw in February. With fewer tourists around, you can easily book a round of golf on some of Europe’s top courses for very reasonable prices. The cooler temperatures make for a pleasant day on the greens, surrounded by spectacular landscapes.
Ideal for Bird Watching
For nature enthusiasts, the Algarve is a haven for bird watching through out the year. February brings its own flavour. The cooler temperatures bring a variety of migratory birds, making it a prime time for birdwatchers to grab their binoculars and enjoy the natural beauty. Flamingos can actually be found in the Algarve from November to March, so its a great time to explore the Algarve’s lagoons and wetland habitat like the Ria Formosa.
Genuine Interactions
February is still off-peak tourist season, which means you get a more authentic feel of local life. The towns and villages are quieter, allowing for genuine interactions with locals and an opportunity to savor the regional cuisine without the hustle and bustle. You won”t often need to book in advance. In some of the more touristy towns you won’t find ticket touts or restaurant hosts trying to convince you to enter their establishment. Febraury, changes how the Algarve feels.
Festivals and Events in the Algarve in February
Even during the winter months, the Algarve has a lively local events calendar.
- The biggest and most famous is Loulé Carnival held in the town of Loulé which will be head between the 9th and 13th February 2024.
- Silves, a traditional castle town in the central Algarve, hosts its own exhibition Mostra Silves Capital da Laranja, dedicated to all things Orange. 2024’s will be held between the 15th and 17th February.
- Volta ao Algarve. Portugal’s biggest cycling event is held annually in February. 2024 will be the 50th edition of the Volta ao Algarve. It will start in Portimão on the 14th February and end in Loulé on the 18th February.
Visiting the Algarve in February offers a unique experience – a blend of peaceful exploration and colorful festivities. Whether you’re interested in the natural beauty of the Algarve, or its traditional towns and villages, there’s something for everyone to be found. Will you be visiting this February?