Though February is the shortest month, it’s a great time to reset. These destinations shake off winter doldrums with cultural events, design-focused festivals, new hotels, and natural escapes. Many appear on our Best Places to Go in 2026 list and have timely reasons to visit—Modernism Week in Palm Springs, the Verbier Festival in Shenzhen, the Winter Olympics in Milan, vintage-car events in Udaipur, and coastal wildlife and festivals on Costa Rica’s South Pacific. Below are why to go in February, where to stay, and quick intel for each pick. This gallery has been updated since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Caitlin Morton, Jing Yang, Jaclyn deGiorgio, Malavika Bhattacharya, and Anna Prendergast.
Palm Springs, California
Why go in February:
Palm Springs lives its mid-century-modern identity year-round but especially during Modernism Week (Feb 12–22, 2026), with hundreds of events: home tours, architecture talks, and signature self-driven house tours that open properties usually off-limits. Sunnylands, Walter Annenberg’s pink-roofed estate, and the city’s museums and vintage shops add to the appeal.
Where to stay:
Options range from tranquil boutiques to sprawling resorts. Casa Cody blends velvet interiors and wood-beamed cottages with the area’s stark modernism; Thompson Palm Springs places you near restaurants, vintage shops, and the art museum.
More intel:
The Best Things to Do in Palm Springs; The Best Airbnbs in Palm Springs; 23 Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs.
Shenzhen, China
Why go in February:
Transformed from a fishing village into a major Special Economic Zone, Shenzhen’s futuristic skyline anchors the Greater Bay Area. In 2026 the Verbier Festival travels from Switzerland to Shenzhen (Jan 30–Feb 8), showcasing global musical talent in the new Longgang International Art Centre. Shenzhen Design Week and Art Shenzhen round out a lively cultural calendar.
Where to stay:
Skyline-view luxury is on the rise: St. Regis opened a second Shenzhen property in Bao’an; Shangri‑La’s flagship in Nanshan has arrived; Rosewood and Mirage by MGM are scheduled debuts for 2026, expanding luxury options across the city.
More intel:
23 Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Visiting China; What to Know About Traveling to China for Business; It’s Now Easier Than Ever for Americans to Visit China—Here’s What to Know.
Milan, Italy
Why go in February:
Milan co-hosts the 2026 Winter Olympic Games (Feb 6–22) alongside Cortina d’Ampezzo, with events spread across a vast region. Design travelers may instead plan for Salone del Mobile (Design Week) in late April, but February offers access to Olympic-related energy and city-wide programming.
Where to stay:
New five-star openings are slated for 2026: Rosewood Milan in the fashion Quadrilatero; Six Senses in Brera with a rooftop bar and sky pool; Mett Milan occupying the top floors of the Torre Velasca. Classic choices include Park Hyatt Milano, Mandarin Oriental Milan, and Hotel Principe di Savoia for traditional grandeur.
More intel:
The Best Hotels in Milan; Italy’s newest thermal spa in Milan; how Peruvian cuisine fits into Milan’s dining scene; how Milan became Italy’s most forward-thinking city.
Udaipur, India
Why go in February:
Set in the Aravalli Hills, the 16th-century “lake city” is famed for Rajput palaces and havelis. The House of Things showcases Indian design with more than 200 homegrown brands. From Feb 20–22, the Oberoi Concourse d’Elegance returns, featuring vintage automobiles judged by international experts and celebrating classic European, American, and Indian heritage cars.
Where to stay:
The new 226-key Marriott sits on Fateh Sagar’s northern edge with marble terraces and carved jharokas. The Fairmont Udaipur Palace occupies forested grounds near the Monsoon Palace and channels Rajput-era design. Boutique Minimalist Hotels plans a 20-key property on Lake Pichola; Hilton is also expected in early 2026.
More intel:
Rajasthan as inspiration for fashion designers; 76 Best Things to Do in India; The Best Time to Visit India—and Where to Go on Your First Trip.
Costa Rica’s South Pacific Coast
Why go in February:
The southern coast’s rainforests, remote beaches, and biodiversity draw eco-minded travelers. Solar-powered boutique Kura and private villas such as Villa Kañik and Villa Sueño offer luxe, secluded stays. Envision festival (returning in 2026) brings underground music and wellness programming; Corcovado National Park’s conservation measures and a 50th anniversary underscore the area’s wildness.
Where to stay:
Corcovado Wilderness Lodge provides an immersive, off-grid experience on a private reserve accessible by boat, with jungle treks and snorkeling led by marine biologists. Sandglass’s Drake Bay property Tibo plans breezy treehouse-style bungalows with private pools, linking Uvita and Corcovado bases.
More intel:
The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica; The Best Hotels in Costa Rica; The Best Things to Do in Costa Rica: Surfing, Rainforests, and Treehouse Hotels.
