What to Do in Rome in February 2026: Weather, Carnival, Food & Top Attractions Without Crowds

February in Rome offers the perfect time for peaceful strolls through the Eternal City, without summer’s crushing tourist crowds and with hints of spring beginning to creep into the crisp air.

The carnival atmosphere, soft lighting, and aromas of seasonal Roman dishes transform this month into a truly unique experience that captures Rome at its most authentic and charming.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover what to wear for February weather, which attractions to prioritize, what seasonal specialties to try, and how to make your February 2026 trip to Rome genuinely special – whether you’re seeking romance, cultural immersion, or unforgettable family memories.

Rome in February 2026 – What You Need to Know

Before planning your Roman adventure, make sure you’re familiar with current regulations and documentation required for entering the country, as these can change and impact your travel plans.

February Weather in Rome: Temperature Ranges and Travel Tips

February weather in Rome typically brings cold but sunny conditions, with occasional rainfall that rarely disrupts sightseeing plans for extended periods.

February in Rome marks the end of winter season. Early in the month, days remain short and precipitation remains possible, but as the month progresses toward its end, weather conditions improve noticeably and the beginning of spring becomes tangible in the air.

Average temperatures in Rome during February hover around 9°C (48°F), with minimum temperatures dropping to 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 14°C (57°F), making it slightly milder than January’s chill.

Typically, February in Rome experiences about 6 days of heavy and substantial rainfall, so you should keep an umbrella handy. However, rain usually comes in the form of passing showers, so you can generally find shelter somewhere and quickly resume your Rome sightseeing adventures once it passes.

Packing Guide for February in Rome: Clothing and Footwear Tips

Winter clothing remains essential in Rome during February, though pack some lighter garments in case the weather turns unexpectedly warm (last year we were wearing short sleeves during February!).

Indoor heating keeps restaurants and attractions comfortable, but it’s never hot or even warm enough to completely shed your sweaters, so remember to dress appropriately in layers when venturing outdoors.

If you’re traveling to Rome in February, it’s important to pack:

  • Comfortable waterproof walking shoes (ankle boots, knee-high boots without heavy lining work best)
  • Warm socks and tights for extra insulation
  • Long pants for cooler days
  • Long-sleeve tops for layering
  • Short-sleeve clothes for unexpectedly warm days
  • Warm sweaters (wool blend recommended)
  • Winter coat (ideally waterproof or water-resistant), scarf for warmth

February Events and Festivities in Rome: What to Expect

Generally, February qualifies as low season in Rome and typically doesn’t experience large crowds of tourists. However, there are several events worth noting that could impact your visit.

  • February 14th (in 2026, Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday): Saint Valentine’s Day isn’t a traditional Roman holiday but rather a commercial one. It won’t affect sightseeing at major attractions, but it might disrupt peaceful evening plans: make sure you’ve booked restaurant reservations well in advance if you have a special place you want to visit, and check whether restaurants are charging additional fees for “special Valentine’s Day menus” that can significantly inflate costs.
  • Carnival (dates vary each year): The exact carnival dates differ annually, but if you’re in Rome during February, you’ll likely experience at least some of the festivities. Carnival here isn’t as traditional as in other parts of Italy (like Venice or Viareggio), and in Rome it’s primarily a children’s celebration: little ones dress up in costumes and the streets fill with colorful confetti. Carnival typically doesn’t interfere with sightseeing schedules or museum and attraction operating hours. In 2026, Martedì Grasso (Mardi Gras) falls on February 17th.

Top Attractions, Activities, and Seasonal Experiences in Rome This February

The absolute best experiences Rome offers in February combine world-class sightseeing, excellent shopping opportunities, and unforgettable culinary adventures that showcase winter specialties.

1. Visit the Colosseum – The Colosseum becomes absolutely fantastic to visit during February (that’s when I last visited it!). During this time, you’ll practically have the arena to yourself, and while rain can certainly make your visit less comfortable, the complete absence of crushing crowds more than compensates for any weather-related discomfort.

Colosseum tickets are available from many sources and vendors. Prices start from €16 for basic access and can reach several hundred euros if you choose private guided tours with exclusive experiences.

>>> To help you navigate all the options and avoid overpaying, you can find my comprehensive guide to the best Colosseum tickets here. <<<

2. Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. February, especially toward the end of the month, also provides ideal timing for visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. During this period, flowers begin blooming on the Palatine, transforming it into a genuinely beautiful destination that offers early hints of spring’s arrival.

>>> See my comprehensive Roman Forum guide here <<<
>>> See my detailed Palatine Hill guide here <<<

3. Visit Vatican City and the Vatican Museums. Significantly reduced crowds make February an excellent time to visit the normally packed Vatican Museums without the overwhelming summer chaos. Make sure you’ve secured tickets well in advance, as even during low season, popular time slots can sell out.

>>> Find my complete Vatican visiting guide here with insider tips for tickets and tours <<<

4. Visit Borghese Gallery. Borghese Gallery ranks among Rome’s most exquisite art museums and represents an absolute must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and culture lovers. Nestled within the beautiful Borghese Gardens, a sprawling patrician park in central Rome, Borghese Gallery houses masterpieces by legendary artists including Bernini, Canova, and Raphael, creating a true feast for the eyes that showcases Italian artistic mastery.

The gallery’s indoor setting makes it perfect for rainy Roman afternoons when outdoor sightseeing becomes less appealing. I highly recommend planning your visit here, then crossing through the gardens to treat yourself to a warm beverage with spectacular views at Casina Valadier – a panoramic restaurant and café overlooking the Pincio terrace, which offers one of Rome’s most stunning citywide vistas.

Advance ticket purchase for the gallery is absolutely mandatory: you can reserve your ticket here.

5. Visit Domus Aurea. Domus Aurea represents Emperor Nero’s palace and stands as one of Rome’s most fascinating archaeological sites. This imperial palace dates back to the 1st century AD, and historians describe it as the largest and most luxurious structure ever constructed in ancient times.

The “palace” is absolutely stunning, but don’t imagine a fairy-tale castle or opulent palace in its original glory!

Immediately after Nero’s death, his palace was systematically destroyed, and now it exists as an ongoing archaeological excavation site located entirely underground!

Entering it today, you find yourself in a series of tunnels and spaces that were once filled with natural light and still preserve the grandeur of their creator’s vision along with some of the original decorations and frescoes. This makes a fantastic destination to explore during cold afternoons when you want to escape winter weather.

>>> My complete visit description and tips for planning your own visit can be found here <<<

6. Visit Palazzo Barberini and the Barberini Mithraeum. Art lovers absolutely must not miss visiting the magnificent Palazzo Barberini – an elegant baroque palace that currently houses the National Gallery of Ancient Art.

Designed by masters including Maderno, Bernini, and Borromini, Palazzo Barberini stands as one of Rome’s most stunning examples of baroque residential architecture and ranks among the city’s finest museums (housing some of the best Caravaggio paintings in Rome!).

>>> Here you can read everything about Palazzo Barberini and its artistic treasures. <<<

If you’re fascinated by Rome’s underground attractions and want to experience something genuinely unique, then you must plan a visit to the Barberini Mithraeum, located beneath the palace itself.

The Mithraeum represents an ancient underground chamber dedicated to worshipping Mithras – a solar deity of Iranian origin and one of the most popular gods of the Roman Empire.

The Mithraeum opens only on selected dates and requires guided tours conducted in Italian. For this reason, I recommend it specifically for people with deep interests in ancient history and religions, or those wanting to discover a genuinely unusual attraction that most Rome visitors never experience!

>>> You can read our comprehensive Barberini Mithraeum guide here. <<<

7. Explore Rome’s Piazzas. All of Rome’s major attractions and principal squares can be comfortably visited during this time of year without overwhelming crowds.

Head to Piazza Navona, Piazza del Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, but also explore some hidden treasures that tourists often miss.

During January, when summer vacation season has ended for local residents, Roman daily life is in full swing, so as soon as you venture beyond the most popular tourist districts, you’ll discover how locals actually live and experience authentic Roman culture.

8. Go Shopping. If you love shopping, February in Rome might prove to be paradise for you! During this period, you’ll typically catch the end of winter sales in Rome, plus you can discover the first items from new seasonal collections hitting the stores.

>>> Check out our guide to Rome’s best shopping streets to discover the top addresses where you can find wonderful items for shopping at excellent prices. <<<

9. Warm Up with Tea or Delicious Hot Chocolate. February in Rome can still feel quite cold and crisp. So if you want to warm up properly, what about treating yourself to a comforting cup of tea or rich, decadent hot chocolate?

>>> Here you can find my curated selection of the best tea houses in Rome.<<<

If you’re a chocolate enthusiast, then your perfect destination is SAID, Rome’s artisanal chocolate factory that creates some of the city’s most incredible hot chocolate experiences.

10. Attend an Opera or Concert. Rome boasts an excellent opera and ballet program throughout the winter season. Music lovers should also explore the programming at Auditorium Parco della Musica, a wonderful venue in the Eternal City that hosts everything from classical performances to contemporary concerts.

11. Try Traditional Roman Food During a Rome Food Tour. Delicious Roman cuisine pairs exceptionally well with cooler weather, making February perfect for culinary exploration. Therefore, embark on a “foodie” tour to taste everything Rome has to offer visitors seeking authentic flavors.

These are tours worth seriously considering:

If you’re in Rome during February, don’t forget to try both traditional Roman seasonal foods and special “carnival” sweets that are offered only during this time of year, making your visit extra special.

During this season, I recommend trying the following traditional local foods that locals especially enjoy:

  • Carbonara, Gricia, Amatriciana: warming and flavorful pasta dishes that are absolutely perfect for the slightly cooler weather during this season.
  • Trippa, a hearty warming dish for culinary adventurers willing to try traditional Roman tripe
  • Supplì, fried rice balls with melting mozzarella centers that are crispy outside and gooey inside
  • Coda alla vaccinara – oxtail stew, a rich and satisfying Roman specialty perfect for cold days
  • Frappe and castagnole – special “carnival” sweets (fried or baked pastries with dough and sugar) available only during this festive season

12. Visit an Exhibition. Rome hosts numerous exhibitions year-round, and February provides excellent timing for museum visits when indoor cultural activities become especially appealing.

13. Visit Local Churches. Visiting Roman churches ranks among the best activities in Rome during any season, but winter makes it exceptionally pleasant (and convenient!).

Churches offer free admission, are often absolutely stunning, and provide perfect shelter from rain and cold weather. Some that I love and highly recommend visiting include Santa Prassede, San Luigi dei Francesi, Santa Maria della Vittoria, and Santa Sabina, but honestly: whenever you spot a church in Rome, peek inside because you’ll likely discover hidden treasures.

14. Visit Rome’s Catacombs. Rome’s catacombs are underground Christian burial sites dating from the earliest centuries of the Christian era. These burial grounds are structured as vast networks of tunnels located beneath the modern city, offering fascinating and unique insights into early Christian life.

Rome has several catacombs open to visitors, and the one I most recommend visiting is San Callisto, which ranks among the largest and most impressive in Rome. You can purchase tickets here.

Family-Friendly Activities and Kids’ Attractions in Rome During February

These are my favorite activities to enjoy in Rome with kids during February.

1. Visit Rome’s Main Tourist Attractions. I believe it’s never too early to introduce children to Rome’s incredible sightseeing opportunities and get them excited about history and culture!

Guides that will help you plan your family visits include:

2. Participate in Carnival Celebrations. Carnival for children in Rome is what Halloween is in other parts of the world: a time to dress up in costumes and surprise friends with jokes or playful tricks (Italians say: “A carnevale, ogni scherzo vale” – at carnival, every joke is fair game).

The best way to experience this beloved tradition is to bring costumes with you and allow your children to wander around the city in their favorite outfits, joining in the festive atmosphere.

Most carnival foods in Rome typically appeal to children: especially “frappe” – sweet fried crispy pastry that’s offered in pastry shops throughout Rome during this special season.

3. Visit Explora Children’s Museum. Explora serves as Rome’s dedicated children’s museum and provides a wonderful destination for families with kids of various ages. During February, this becomes an exceptionally convenient indoor option for rainy days or anytime when weather doesn’t seem suitable for extended hours in parks and outdoor activities.

4. Take an Art Class. Indoor activities can be absolute lifesavers in Rome during winter, and one that we absolutely loved was the art class we took with the wonderful people at Arte al Sole. We chose the mosaic-making class, which proved perfect for crafty children who enjoy hands-on creative projects and learning traditional Roman techniques.

5. Learn to Make Your Own Pizza. On a cold February day, nothing beats staying in a cozy kitchen and preparing warm, delicious food together as a family. With the kids, we did exactly that by taking a family pizza-making class, followed by enjoying our own homemade creations while learning about authentic Italian cooking methods.

6. Visit the “Welcome to Rome” Exhibition. “Welcome to Rome” is a small permanent indoor exhibition that tells Rome’s story through spectacular 3D light reconstructions of Rome’s major landmarks plus a short educational film.

This makes a fantastic destination to visit with children because it’s relatively compact, designed to be both entertaining and educational – the short film also provides a good excuse to sit down and rest for a while! Most suitable for children aged 6 and up who can appreciate the historical content.

7. Visit Leonardo’s Museum of Inventions. If you need to quickly escape from rain or simply want to have fun indoors during a February afternoon in Rome, head to the Leonardo Museum in Palazzo Cancelleria (address: Piazza della Cancelleria, near Campo de’ Fiori).

This is a small but fascinating permanent exhibition featuring many of Leonardo’s machines that children can actually touch and try out (not all, but most), plus there’s a table where they can test their skills building Leonardo’s self-supporting bridge design.

It’s genuinely fun and not nearly as easy as it looks! This provides an excellent puzzle that keeps them entertained while stimulating their problem-solving abilities!

Important to know: the museum also has a secret underground lake! Don’t miss exploring this hidden feature during your visit.

Strategically Located Hotels and Accommodations in Rome for February

Rome offers hotels perfectly suited for every type of traveler, regardless of budget constraints or travel style preferences. Below you’ll find direct links to accommodations strategically located within walking distance of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and must-see attractions. Why specifically these hotels? Because your time in Rome is precious and limited – you don’t want to waste valuable sightseeing hours commuting simply because you’re staying far from essential sites like the Pantheon or Spanish Steps.

I hope you enjoyed this comprehensive article and that it helps you plan your perfect winter trip to Rome during February 2026!