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Florence in February | Weather, Museums, Attractions & More
Florence is the capital province of the Tuscany region in Italy. It is considered to be Europe’s open-air museum of Renaissance art. Landmarks like Florence Duomo, Palazzo Pitti, Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, and Museo del Bargello are all exceptional examples of classic European architecture and design. One can truly discover the opulence and history of the city of Florence by stepping into any of these places. The interiors of these attractions are adorned with highly commendable collections of artworks including pieces by Michaelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, and many other renowned artists. Here’s all you need to know to plan your trip to Florence in February.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Florence?
February is the best time to visit Florence as it is the Carnival season. Since it is the low season, you can visit attractions with fewer crowds and get fantastic discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings.
Why You Should Visit Florence in February
- Florence in February lets you enjoy snow-free winters in Europe.
- February is part of the low season in Florence, meaning lesser waiting times at tourist hotspots.
- The Carnival is definitely a reason worth visiting Florence in February.
- Flight tickets and hotels are cheaper as it is off-peak season.
- Entry tickets to most attractions are also available at discounted rates.
What to Look Out for in Florence in February
- Florence gets a few showers in February. So do carry an umbrella.
- February is the windiest month in Florence; dress accordingly.
- Due to restricted crowds, some attractions may require you to book a timeslot before visiting.
- Events and shows may be canceled or change their timings due to the pandemic or weather conditions. Please stay updated on any such changes by checking the events’ official websites.
- Beware of pickpocketing during the Carnival, as the streets can get very loud and crowded.
Overview of Weather in Florence in February
It is winter in Florence in February with the days being cold and nights very chilly. The city gets about 4 hours of sunshine every day, under a mostly clear or partly clouded sky. It rains lightly for around 5 - 7 days, but hardly ever snows.
- Average Temperature: High - 12.5 ℃ Low - 2.5 ℃
- Average Rainfall: 63.7 mm
- Average Wind Speeds: 7.4 miles per hour
- Average Daylight: 10.5 Hours
Best Things to do in Florence in February
1. Uffizi Gallery
Art Gallery | Tourist Hotspot
The world’s most extensive collection of Italian Renaissance art can be found at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. The Gallery also has a curated collection of sculptures and paintings from the 12th to the 17th century, featuring renowned artists like Michaelangelo, Caravaggio, Giotto, Botticelli, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and many others. The gallery offers discounted entry tickets in February.
February Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM (Exit at 6:30 PM)
from €16
2. Florence Duomo
UNESCO Site | Tourist Hotspot
Florence’s most iconic Duomo is home to the world’s third-largest church - the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This Gothic church complex from the Renaissance also comprises five other must-see attractions - Brunelleschi's Dome, the Santa Reparata Church, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Museum of the Opera del Duomo. You can explore this tourist hotspot amidst fewer crowds in February.
February Timings: The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: Monday to Saturday from 10:15 AM to 4:45 PM
3. Accademia Gallery
Art Gallery | Top Attraction
The Accademia Gallery is an 18th-century art school turned into a museum. It houses classic paintings, sculptures, and a newly opened Museum of Musical Instruments. Admire Michelangelo’s David, and explore the Hall of the Prisoners, the Florentine Gothic Rooms, the Hall of Colossus, and more, in the less crowded month of February.
February Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM (Last entry at 5:45 PM)
from €20
4. Boboli Gardens
Open-Air Museum | UNESCO Site
The Boboli Gardens is a historic park that developed between the 15th and 19th centuries. Spanning 45 hectares of land, it is the largest open-air museum in Florence, brimming with sculptures, fountains, and grottoes. The Upper Botanical Garden and the Viale dei Cipressi are beautiful areas to explore on foot. Do visit the Gardens in February when the ticket prices are slashed.
February Timings: Daily from 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM)
Closed: 6 February
5. Palazzo Pitti
Museum | Historical Monument
The Palazzo Pitti is the largest museum complex in Florence. Here you will find the Royal Apartments, the Palantine Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Treasury of the Grand Dukes (the Silver Museum), the Porcelain Museum, the Carriage Museum, and the Museum of Costume and Fashion. You can explore all of these museums with a single discounted ticket when visiting in February.
February Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 1:30 PM to 6:50 PM
Free entry on the 5th of February
6. Palazzo Vecchio
Town Hall | Top Attraction
Florence’s town hall, Palazzo Vecchio, is a Medieval fortress built over Roman ruins. The Palace also functions as a museum that houses artworks from the Renaissance period and is definitely a building that encapsulates Florentine history. It also has a viewing tower and patrol watch walkway, which you must visit in February when there are fewer crowds.
February Timings: Friday to Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
7. Museo del Bargello
Art Museum | Historical Monument
Museo del Bargello is housed in a 13th-century palace, which is the oldest public building in Florence. The museum has one of the largest collections of Renaissance sculptures including Donatello’s marble statue of David and Michelangelo’s ‘Tondo Pitti’. Also on display, are collections of ceramics, enamels, textiles, tapestries, waxes, ivory, silver, armor, and coins. Make sure the museum is open on your desired dates in February before booking.
February Timings: Daily from 8:15 AM to 1:50 PM
Free entry on the 5th of February
Closed: 6th, 12th, 20th, and 26th of February.
8. Medici Chapel
Tomb Museum | Top Attraction
The Medici Chapels comprise the museum and the burial place of the Medici family. They were built next to the Basilica di San Lorenzo between the 16th and 17th centuries by Michelangelo and Buontalenti. The main highlights of the attraction are the Chapel of the Princes and the Sagrestia Nuova (New Sacristy), both of which are less crowded in February.
February Timings: Daily from 8:15 AM to 1:50 PM
Free entry on the 5th of February
Closed: 6th, 12th, 20th, and 26th of February
9. Siena Cathedral
Church | Historical Monument
Siena Cathedral is a church with an opulent facade, and white and green marble interiors adorned with some admirable examples of renaissance art. While the Piccolomini Library features Pinturicchio’s frescoes, the Crypt, the Museo dell'Opera, and the Baptistry of San Giovanni display fine examples of Sienese paintings done between the 13th and the 18th century. Explore the cathedral without much waiting time in February.
February Timings: Monday - Saturday from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
Sundays and public holidays: from 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
10. Day Trip to Pisa
Day Trip | International Landmark
An Italian holiday is incomplete without a trip to the historic city of Pisa. While you are in Florence, this becomes even more convenient with the many day trip options offered. In one day, you can see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Piazza Dei Miracoli, and even drop by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Gimignano, while riding on a luxury coach. Do book your guided tours for February, well in advance to ensure a spot.
from €24
11. Wine Tasting at Chianti
Day Trip | Culinary Experience
With hilly sceneries, some historic landmarks, and insta-worthy photo points on the way, a bus ride from Florence to Chianti is one not to miss. Here you can experience the Tuscan countryside while walking through the vineyards and tasting wine at the traditional wineries. You may also take home a few bottles of wine as souvenirs and gifts while you visit in February.
from €67
12. Day Trip to Cinque Terre
Day Trip | Nearby City
One of the best day trips from Florence is to the Italian coastal city of Cinque Terre. The city takes you through colorful fishing villages, narrow cobbled lanes, and picturesque viewpoints which are sure to mesmerize you. Although the beach waters may be too cold for a dip, you can sure try authentic Italian seafood while you are there in February.
from €840
Festivals in Florence in February
Carnevale
Date: 16th February 2023
Venue: All around Florence and other Italian cities
February is Carnival time in Italy. ‘Carnevale’, meaning ‘farewell to meat’ is Italy’s way of preparing for Lent with a carnival and food feast. The Carnival begins on Fat Thursday, also known as Giovedì Grasso (the last Thursday before the beginning of Lent). The week leading up to Lent is celebrated throughout the country with colorful gondola parades, floats, costumes, parties, masquerade balls, music and dance shows, and fun events for people of all ages. Lasagna, sausages, and other meat-based food are very popular this week.
Know more
Shrove Tuesday (Martedì Grasso or Mardi Gras)
Date: 21st February 2023
Venue: All around Florence and other Italian cities
Shrove Tuesday (Martedì Grasso or Mardi Gras) is the last Tuesday before Lent and the last day of Carnival celebrations in Italy. On this day, people eat all the special meats and sweets they cannot for the next 40 days and then prepare for Lent. Carnival delicacies like Frittelle (rice or semolina fritters), Cenci (fried dough topped with powdered sugar) and Schiacciata Alla Fiorentina (vanilla-flavored soft cake) are must-tries during this time.
Know moreEvents in Florence in February
TASTE 2023
Dates: 4th February 2023 - 6th February 2023
Venue: Fortezza da Basso, Florence
Pitti Immagine will be organizing its annual food festival ‘TASTE 2023’ in Florence in February. TASTE 2023 will offer an array of gourmet dishes, exotic flavors and spices, and various types of drinks made in Italy and abroad. Visitors can experience the best of Italian food and wine, through interactive pavilions, live demonstrations, taste testing, talks, and meetings with industry experts.
Know more
Danza in Fiera 2023 (17th Edition)
Dates: 20th February 2023 to 23rd February 2023 (TBA)
Venue: Fortezza da Basso, Florence
Danza in Fiera is an annual dance expo held in Florence in February. It is the biggest international event dedicated to the business and educational aspects of dance. More than 20000 performers attend the expo to participate in more than 400 dance-related events. There are also 17 different international dance competitions conducted as part of the expo.
Know more
Terre di Sienna Ultra-Marathon
Date: 26th February 2023
Venue: Chianti, Francigena, and Sienna, Italy
After having to cancel the annual event in 2022, the Terre di Sienna Ultra Marathon will return in February 2023. Runners can register themselves to compete in the 18 km, 32 km, or 50 km standard distance categories. There is also a 13 km non-competitive walk for those who wish to participate but do not compete. The route for the coming up season goes by the hills of Chianti, the long stretch of Francigena, and the very scenic Siena, enjoying the great vistas of the Tuscan countryside.
Know moreKnow Before You Visit Florence in February
Travel Essentials
What to Wear
What to Pack
Transport
Stay
Food
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) is used in Florence which is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+02:00)
- Currency: Euro | EUR | €
- Country code: +39
- Emergency number: Dial 112 for police, fire, and medical services
What to wear in Florence in February
- Heavy woolen clothing is recommended as it is very cold in Florence in February.
- A thick jacket and a pair of gloves should keep you comfortable outdoors.
- A poncho or a raincoat is advised to be carried when you step out, in case of rain.
- Layers of sweaters and scarves may be worn to stand the wind.
- Comfortable walking shoes over a pair of thick socks
What to Pack For Florence in February
- Heavy woolen clothes, sweaters, jackets, hoodies, scarves, and a pair of gloves are all recommended to stay comfortable in the chilly and windy weather.
- Do carry an umbrella, a poncho or raincoat, and maybe a pair of rain boots, as it rains a little in Florence in February.
- A comfortable pair of walking shoes and thick socks are a must as there is a lot to explore in Florence on foot.
- 3-pin to 2-pin adaptors with round pins for the C, F, and L type sockets found in Florence.
Getting Around Florence in February
- By Bus: Florence has a well-connected network of electric minibusses run by Autolinee Toscane that takes you all around Tuscany. You can buy bus tickets digitally on the Tabnet app and via text message by sending “Firenze” to 4880105. Physical tickets are available at vending machines, authorized stores, and official ticketing offices.
- By Tram: Trams are available in Florence between 5:30 AM and 12:00 AM. Although the connectivity is limited, it helps dodge peak traffic hours. Tram tickets can be bought physically at vending machines, official ticket offices, and registered retail stores.
- By Cab: Surprisingly, you cannot wave down a cab running on the street in Florence. Instead, you must go to the designated taxi stand at the nearest square or book one through your phone. You may do so by calling 0554242 / 0554390 / 0554798 / 0554499 or through the Taxi 4242 app.
Where to Stay in Florence in February
Florence offers a good variety of hostels, hotels, and apartments across the city for all budget groups. Here are some of the best places you can stay at while visiting Florence in February.
- Budget: Hotel Abaco, Santo Spirito Suite, Plus Florence Hostels & Hotels
- Mid-Range: FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli, Grand Amore Hotel and Spa - Ricci Collection, Hotel Atlantic Palace
- Luxury: Palazzo Portinari Salviati Residenza D'Epoca, Hotel Cardinal of Florence, Dreams Over Ponte Vecchio Apartments Florence
What to eat in Florence in February
Made from mostly wheat and basic natural ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic, and mushrooms, Italian cuisine is one of the most loved around the world. Here are some of the staples of the city of Florence you must try.
Lampredotto: Lampredotto is a Florentine folk dish made from the stomach of a cow. The tripe is slow-cooked in a seasoned vegetable broth and is usually served as a sandwich (panino co i' lampredotto). Lampredotto is served everywhere in Florence with either a spicy red or a minty green sauce.
Bottarga: Bottarga is the Italian word for salted, cured fish roe. In Italian cuisine, this dish is served as pasta topped with eggs of grey mullets, which are sun-dried for 6 months. Different restaurants in different parts of the country have their own variations of the delicacy, made from a variety of roe fishes including common ling, tuna, bonito, and black drum.
Explore Florence Through the Year
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Florence in February
Is February a good time to visit Florence?
February is a great time to visit Florence as it is the low season with fewer crowds at tourist hotspots and greater discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings. It is also the Carnival season in Italy.
What are the best things to do in Florence in February?
Some of the best things to do in Florence include visiting the historic sights and churches and admiring the artworks at the many renaissance museums across the city. In February, you can also witness the Carnevale celebrations in Florence and travel to the nearby cities of Pisa, Chianti, Cinque Terre, and Siena as well.
Is Florence cold in February?
February is the second coldest month in Florence with the temperature dropping as low as 2.5 ℃. February winds are the strongest of the year, making it feel even colder.
How hot is Florence in February?
It is winter in Florence in February with the maximum temperature going up to 12.5 ℃.
Can you swim in Florence in February?
No, it is not recommended to go swimming in Florence in February as the average sea temperature is around 13 ℃.
Is it sunny in Florence in February?
Florence generally sees clear or partly clouded skies in February. The days are about 10.5 hours long with 4 hours of sunshine.
What clothes to wear in Florence in February?
Heavy woolen clothing is recommended to be worn in Florence in February. Gloves, scarves, sweaters, hoodies, thick jackets, and thick socks should keep you warm and comfortable in the winter. It is advised to carry water-repelling clothes like raincoats and ponchos for the few rainy days as well.
Is it rainy in Florence in February?
It rains lightly for around 5 - 7 days in Florence in February, accumulating an average of 63.7 mm of rainfall.
Is Florence expensive to visit?
If visiting in February, Florence is one of the cheapest European countries to go to. Since it is the off-peak season, you can expect to get great bargains on airfare and hotel tariffs. The trip becomes even cheaper if you resort to public transport and walking to get around.
How safe is Florence?
The crime rates in Florence are pretty low, with occasional instances of bag-snatching or theft. However, do keep in mind that during the Carnival, there may be more instances of pickpocketing in the crowds. In case of any emergency, please dial 112 for police, fire services, and medical help.
What can I see in Florence in February?
February in Florence although chilly, offers tourists a lot of indoor attractions to truly experience Renaissance art and architecture. You can comfortably visit the Florence Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, Accademia Gallery, Museo del Bargello, and Medici Chapels, amidst the fewer crowds in February. Moreover, the Uffizi Gallery, Boboli Gardens, and the Palazzo Pitti & Palatine Gallery offer discounted entry tickets in February.
What are the major events in Florence in February?
The annual culinary exhibition of Florence ‘TASTE’ takes place in February. So does the annual dance expo ‘Danza in Fiera’. You may also want to go see, participate in or cheer at the Terre di Sienna Ultra Marathon in Sienna while visiting Florence in February.
What is the average temperature in Florence in February?
The average temperature in Florence during February ranges from 2.5 ℃ to 12.5 ℃.
What are the main festivals in Florence in February?
Florence prepares for Lent towards the end of February. This is the biggest celebration in all of Italy during this time. The Carnevale in Florence begins on Fat Thursday with celebrations that go on until Shrove Tuesday, just before the beginning of Lent.