Totally Rome
Rome in February
Carnival season, low prices and the first hints of spring — Rome in February.
Carnival
Carnevale (the week before Lent, typically in February) fills Rome's pastry shops with frappe (crispy fried pastry ribbons) and castagnole (fried dough balls dusted with sugar). The Roman celebration is low-key compared to Venice, but the seasonal pastries are worth seeking out specifically.
The weather
February is cold but often shows the first signs of change — by late February, temperatures can reach 12–14°C on clear afternoons and the light begins to have the quality of early spring. The first almond trees flower in the Orto Botanico and Villa Borghese gardens from mid-month.
Valentine's Day
Rome is a popular Valentine's destination — restaurants fill up on February 14th and prix-fixe menus replace normal service at many places. Book well ahead if your visit includes that date, or embrace the opportunity to eat early and avoid the evening rush.
Prices
Still at their winter low, making February one of the best value months. Hotel rates and flight prices typically hit their annual floor in January and February before beginning to climb toward spring.
