As we move into a new year, it may seem as if the holiday season is ages away. But why wait? February half-term will soon be here, and you’ll have a whole week when the kids are off school to go and explore. Whether it’s a sun, ski or city trip, we’ve got a great solution for you. It’s bound to beat being stuck in the rainy UK in February!
Here are some of our best suggestions to get you started…
Go skiing in Tignes
A skiing break is brilliant for families as it keeps all ages busy during the day, with plenty of great food and activities to enjoy in the evenings too. Tignes is a top choice - lots of blue runs for beginners and younger skiers, alongside a range of ski schools. Plus, the town boasts an ice rink, bowling alley and cinema if you’d prefer to warm up indoors! Things never get too lively here, so heading out to try different restaurants, if you’ve got the kids in tow, is a doddle. Tignes is also less than three hours’ transfer from the two ski gateways, Turin and Geneva.
Hunt down history and culture in the Algarve
With its year-round sunshine and temperatures teetering in the mid to high teens, there’s no better time to uncover the history and culture of the Algarve. The whole clan will love exploring time-worn buildings, like the terracotta-tinged turrets at Silves Castle or Castelo de Tavira, with its beautiful botanical gardens. Both reward you with sweeping panoramic views if you climb to the top too. Pay a visit to the capital, Faro, and you’ll find history and culture aplenty. Explore the cobbled streets, sample the local delicacies and browse the shops.
Celebrate in Tenerife
The carnival is in town in Tenerife this winter, and luckily it overlaps with February half-term holidays this year! The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is second only to Rio de Janiero’s for scale and stature. The carnival takes place in the capital, but you don’t have to stay in the city. Opt for Puerto de la Cruz or even Costa Adeje and you’ll have gorgeous sandy beaches to enjoy some winter sun with your family before joining the celebrations.
Enjoy family-friendly fun in Antalya
This Turkish gem is primed for half-term getaways with its balmy winter temperatures and bounty of beautiful beaches. Make a beeline for Belek Beach where tots, teens and adults will enjoy the perfect-for-paddling shores and soft sand. Not to mention the choice of adrenaline-fuelled water sports on offer.
Relax in Madeira
For some slower-paced winter sun in February, Madeira is ideal. This relaxed island in the Atlantic is a vision of paradise even in winter, with warm temperatures, bright skies and botanical gardens overflowing with flowers. There are plenty of things to do for families in Madeira too, including whale and dolphin-watching experiences out at sea. Stay in Funchal and you can also enjoy the stunning Lido area overlooking the oceanfront. Take the cable car to the hillside village of Monte for majestic views across Funchal Harbour below.
Get active in Paphos
Cyprus is not just for summer – there’s plenty going on over the winter months too and February half-term is the prime time to whisk the whole gang away for a get up and go holiday. Thanks to its balmy climate, days on the beach aren’t out of the question, so sandcastle building is well and truly still on the cards. And whether you dip into the water or not, it’ll certainly be warm enough for a wander along the sand. Want to swap a slow stroll for a hardened hike? The Artemis trails are a great option, especially if you want to see more of the flora and fauna of the island.
Discover Palma
Fancy a city break in February half-term? Palma could be the place for you. The capital of Majorca is steeped in culture, from the intricately detailed spires of La Seu Cathedral to the authentic tapas bars in the centre of town. It’s perfect for introducing the kids to discovering historical attractions, with the added choice of taking a break at the beach of Ca’n Pere Antoni. Plus, even in February, you can expect winter sun temperatures of up to 15°C, so it should be warm enough to wander in comfort.
Decided on your ideal February half-term holiday? Whether it’s ski, sun or city you go for, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have the perfect trip for you.
Posted: 10th Nov 2022. Updated: 12th Dec 2024.