Both January and February seem to be the wettest months in Rome, so when traveling to Rome in February it’s always advised to keep an umbrella and wet weather gear handy. But never mind the cloudy skies or chilly nights, Rome in February is still one of the romantic cities in Europe, setting the perfect scene for a cosy days and nights spent inside.

If you’re planning to visit Rome in February, check out our post for finding the most romantic spots to steal a kiss in Rome. Carnevale, the holiday period that lasts until Easter, is celebrated at the end of February.

Weather in Rome in February

The rainy weather in January usually just extends into rainy weather in February. February temperatures historically show highs in the mid-50s and lows in the mid-30s. Temperatures can seem even more extreme in wet or damp weather as well as wind chill. It’s best to plan on covering up with a good coat, scarf, and weather resistant shoes. Roman streets are known to flood easily, so a pair of rain boots could also come in handy. It’s always advised that if you head out for the day to bring an extra layer with you.

Looking for an umbrella or jacket or scarf?

Despite your best intentions you forgot an umbrella that suddenly became a necessity, or you didn’t pack enough warm clothes? For an inexpensive umbrella (and perhaps some cheeky novelty gifts) check out any one of the many Flying Tiger Copenhagen stores that are scattered all over the historic center. Inevitably when the cloud cover comes, there will be plenty of street salesmen stocked with umbrellas. We advise not purchasing from them as the quality of the umbrellas isn’t worth the €5-10 they’ll ask you.

If you’re looking for a jacket, head to one of the main streets full of shops. We’ve written about where to go shopping in Rome before. Look for an H&M, Zara or OVS for quick, ready-to-wear solutions that will keep you toasty as the temperatures drop.

Valentine’s Day in Rome

As with any big city, expect restaurants to go big for the most romantic day of the year. Make reservations at your restaurant of choice as early as possible, and if you need any ideas, take a look at our ROMAC restaurant guide by neighborhood for inspiration.

Flowers

Looking to buy flowers in Rome? Shopping for flowers in Rome can be a charming, nostalgic experience at any of the open-air markets, like Campo de’ Fiori or San Cosimato in Trastevere. Flower vendors often have pre-made bouquets for budgets as low as €10-15. You can also choose your own flowers and they’ll create one for you on the spot.

It’s also quite common to find flower vendors set up shop in any random piazza or street, especially around Valentine’s Day.

For a bit more higher end, look up a fancy fioraio in your neighborhood, a florist with a brick-and-mortar shop. Prices will be much higher, but the quality and selection of flowers will be higher as will be the artistry of the arrangement.

Chocolates

Our two favorite chocolate shops in Rome are two local, historic Roman chocolatiers: Said dal 1923 and Moriondo e Gariglio.

Said dal 1923 (Via Tiburtina, 135) is located close to Termini Station and features not only a large chocolate shop with boxes and confections of all sizes but also a restaurant. Stop in for lunch or just a cup of creamy hot chocolate while you shop for your significant other.

Moriondo e Gariglio (Via di Pie’ di Marmo 21-22) is a much smaller, one-room shop tucked away on a small street behind the Pantheon. The chocolatier was originally founded in 1850 in Turin but then moved to Rome nearly a century ago. As soon as you step in the shop you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped back in time. The family-run business is a relic of the past when most shops were managed this way.

Cards

If you’re looking for a nice card to write to your significant other, look up the nearest cartoleria in your neighborhood for all things paper. Flying Tiger Copenhagen would also have some nice cards and gifts for the occasion, but if possible, seek out the local, family-run option first and help support the local economy.

Carnevale in Rome

You’ve probably heard about the world-famous Carnevale celebrations that take place in Venice each year. Celebrations of the holiday in Rome pale in comparison, but don’t be surprised if you see small children dressed up as Disney or Marvel characters playing around in the piazzas, eating candy and throwing paper confetti at each other. Or even more common, the site of paper confetti covering streets and piazzas as evidence of a previous play date.

Nevertheless, the city hosts a series of celebrations, including a costumed parade in Piazza Navona, fireworks displays and concerts. Piazzas like Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna Piazza del Popolo, and Via del Corso play host to the city’s festivities each year. Events will start to take place on Sunday, February 23 continue for more than a week or so.

A Few Ways to Stay Warm Inside

The wet weather in Rome in February means it’s a good time to be inside. Some of our favorite ways to escape the chill is to visit one of the lesser known museums and sites or stop in one of Rome’s luxury hotels for spot of tea!

Visit Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

Museums

Perennial museums like the Vatican Museums and the Capitoline Museums are always a good idea. Or use the excuse of staying inside to visit some of the lesser known museums and sites like Villa Medici, Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, and Quirinal Palace.

Check out our recent post on 5 temporary exhibitions that are not-to-miss this winter! They’re an excellent excuse to escape the cold outside and gain some new perspectives inside.

High Tea at Babingtons Tea Room

High Tea in Rome

It’s true that Rome isn’t particularly known for it’s high tea culture, but that’s not to say that the city doesn’t have some world class high tea experiences available! Check out our post on High Tea in Rome to get the scoop on where to go!

*Is there anywhere else you would suggest taking high tea in Rome? Share you’re advice in the comments below!

Coffee Shop Culture

Looking for the nearest coffee shop to get some work done, dive into a good book, or just chat over a cappuccino? Coffee shop culture is a bit of a novelty in Rome (and Italy in general), but we put together a list of some of our favorite coffee shops and secret corners where you can get away for a cosy afternoon.

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Have you visited Rome in February? Share your experience with us in the comments below!