Romania in February: weather & travel tips

updated 11.12.2024

February in Romania might seem like just another winter month, but there’s more to it than cold weather. This is the time for centuries-old traditions, like Dragobete, Romania’s own day of love that predates Valentine’s Day, and Mucenicii, with its folklore about predicting the weather. Here’s what to expect from Romania’s weather this February.

Romania in February at a glance

  • Average temperatures stay chilly at 28°F to 39°F (-2°C to 4°C)
  • Snowfall continues, but you'll catch occasional sunny days
  • Still low season with excellent prices across the country
  • Perfect timing for winter sports and thermal spa visits without crowds

Is February a good time to visit Romania? 

February isn't the best time to visit Romania if you're hoping for mild weather and outdoor activities beyond winter sports.The weather in Romania in February is decidedly wintry, with cold temperatures and frequent snowfall, especially in the mountains.

Packing plenty of warm layers is a must – February’s weather can be tough for the unprepared. While the snow creates excellent skiing conditions in the Carpathian Mountains, it may complicate transportation in remote areas. You’ll also want to plan for short days, with around 10 hours of daylight. If you're still not sold, see our favorite places to visit in February.

Red cable car moving down in Poiana Brasov © Novie Charleen Magne/Shutterstock

Red cable car moving down in Poiana Brasov © Novie Charleen Magne/Shutterstock

Average daily temperatures in February

February in Romania is seriously cold. Daytime highs hover around 37°F (3°C), with nighttime lows dipping to about 23°F (-5°C). These are some of the chilliest temperatures you’ll encounter all year.

During the day, you might catch the occasional sunny spell, but the air stays crisp and cold. Evenings are even colder, so bundle up if you’re planning a nighttime stroll through a historic city. Expect around 32 mm of rainfall or snow over 7–8 days, usually coming in short bursts rather than long stretches.

What about the crowd and cost?

February is a great time for budget travelers. Outside of ski resorts, hotel prices hit their lowest, and you’ll find plenty of deals on accommodations and attractions. Tourist traffic is minimal in cities and cultural sites, though ski resorts will be busier.

If you'd prefer better weather and still want to avoid summer crowds and prices, consider visiting in April or October. These months bring milder temperatures and fewer tourists than the busy summer months (when prices can double, and popular spots are packed). See our full guide to when to go to Romania

fortress-poienari-arefu-romania-shutterstock_1287896929

Great for a Romanian vacation: Fortress Poienari, Arefu, Arges county Romania ©  Shutterstock

Things to do in Romania in February

Here are a few exciting activities to enjoy that match the weather in Romania in February, or check out our guide to uncover more top best things to do in Romania.

Snowshoeing in the Bucegi Mountains

There's nothing quite like strapping on snowshoes and exploring the pristine winter landscape of the Bucegi Mountains. You'll find well-marked trails starting from Bușteni resort, winding through snow-covered spruce forests and opening up to breathtaking views of the Prahovei Valley. The mountain huts along the way, like Cabana Caraiman, offer the perfect spot to warm up with a hot mulled wine. 

The thermal spas in Băile Felix

You haven't experienced true relaxation until you've soaked in the healing waters of Băile Felix during winter. These naturally heated pools stay at a toasty  68–113°F (20–45°C) year-round, and they're rich in minerals that locals swear by for joint health. The Apollo-Felix complex is your best bet - it's got both indoor and outdoor pools where you can float while snowflakes fall around you. 

Cityscape with old house of historical center of Sibiu town Transylvania, Romania ©  Chursina Viktoriia/Shutterstock

What to do in Romania? Visit Sibiu town Transylvania, Romania ©  Chursina Viktoriia/Shutterstock

Visit Peleș Castle's second floor winter collection rooms

February is actually one of the best times to explore the second floor of Peleș Castle. The winter collection rooms showcase the Romanian royal family's cold-weather lifestyle, including their impressive array of hunting trophies and cozy reading nooks. You'll see the Music Room in its winter decoration, and the Grand Armory looks especially dramatic against the snow-covered mountain backdrop through those neo-Renaissance windows.

Go ice skating at Ciucaș Arena in Brașov

This Olympic-sized rink offers public skating sessions throughout the day, and the evening sessions under the lights are particularly magical. You can rent quality skates right there, and if you're a bit wobbly, grab one of their penguin-shaped skating aids. The arena's café serves up some killer hot chocolate that's perfect for warming up between laps.

Cross-country ski at Harghita-Băi

One of Romania's hidden winter gems: the 9-mile (15-kilometer) cross-country ski trail at Harghita-Băi. This well-maintained route winds through snowy pine forests and rolling hills, with rest stops to catch your breath. It's great for both classic and skating techniques, and there's a local ski school for rentals and lessons if you're a beginner. Gentle slopes at the start make it an easy entry into the sport.

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The weather in Romania in February is great for an atmospheric Bran Castle © Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Romania in February

Check out some fantastic festivals and events that take place in February to add to your Romania travel itinerary.

  • International Sausage Festival: You'll find locals and visitors gathering in Nicolești to celebrate Romania's rich sausage-making traditions. There's plenty of tasting opportunities, demonstrations of traditional preparation methods, and competitions between local producers. 
  • Dragobete: Think of this as Romania's own version of Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 24th. Young couples participate in traditional courtship rituals, folk celebrations, and nature-focused festivities. It's deeply rooted in Romanian folklore and offers a more authentic alternative to the commercial Valentine's celebrations.
  • Arad Honey Festival: Here's where beekeepers from across the region showcase their finest honey products. You'll discover everything from raw honey to beauty products, plus get expert insights into beekeeping. 
  • Zilele Culturii Maghiare: This vibrant celebration in Satu Mare showcases Hungarian cultural heritage through traditional music, dance performances, art exhibitions, and authentic cuisine. You'll experience the rich cultural diversity of Romania's Hungarian community firsthand.

Plan your trip with our Romania itineraries

Ready to map out your adventure? Our Romania itineraries are full of expert advice, top recommendations, and local tips to help you make the most of your trip. For even more inspiration, check out our trip ideas gallery.

Want to leave the planning to the pros? Our tailor-made trips take care of every detail for you. Designed by local experts and fully customizable, they ensure a seamless travel experience with 24/7 support.

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 11.12.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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