February Half-term Holiday

February half term is the time when families can have the perfect getaway. Whether it's a big adventure for little explorers or a chance for older kids to enjoy family time, their way. After weeks of school routines and cold winter days, a break filled with new sights, exciting activities, and quality time together is just what’s needed.

The fun doesn't just begin when you arrive at your destination,  with P&O Ferries your half-term holiday starts the moment you step onboard. Ditch airport queues and baggage restrictions and instead stretch out, relax, and enjoy the journey at your leisure. Whether you set sail for a magical trip to Disneyland Paris or a skiing adventure in the Alps, travelling by ferry means you can bring everything you need!

Need flexibility? P&O Ferries offers Flexi Tickets for those last-minute changes, child-friendly entertainment, and even dog-friendly cabins—because every family member deserves a great February half-term holiday.

Where will your February half-term holiday take you? Let’s explore some of the best destinations for an unforgettable break.

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Best February Half Term Holiday Destinations

Families of all sizes (and ages) may find plenty of intriguing places to visit over the February half term holidays, spanning picturesque city getaways to snowy slopes. There is something for everyone, whether you're searching for a laid-back family road trip, an exciting ski vacation, or a cultural getaway.

Skiing holidays in February Half Term

The February half term is a great time to visit the slopes if your family enjoys winter activities. Some of Europe's top ski resorts are ideal for both novice and expert skiers. You may drive directly to the mountains, bypass lengthy airport security queues, and pack all your belongings on a ferry trip.

Top Ski Destinations

1. The French Alps: Well-known destinations like Chamonix and Les Deux Alpes have family-friendly après-ski events, kids' ski schools, and stunning slopes.

2. The Pyrenees: This area provides breathtaking scenery and family-friendly resorts like Font-Romeu, making it a more serene option than the Alps.

3. Austria’s Tirol Region: Families seeking breathtaking villages, top-notch ski runs, and a wide variety of winter activities beyond skiing will find paradise in Austria's Tirol Region.

For more ski holiday inspiration, check out our recommendations for the best Skiing Holiday Adventures.

February Half Term Holidays without snow

Not a fan of winter sports? No problem! There are plenty of other ways to make the most of February half term:

1. Coastal Escapes: Take a ferry to Northern France or the Netherlands and enjoy family-friendly seaside towns, historic castles, and fresh sea air.

2. Theme Park Thrills: Disneyland Paris is a magical destination all year round, and February half term is a fantastic time to visit without the peak summer crowds.

3. European Road Trips: Load up the car and embark on a family adventure across France, Belgium, or even Northern Ireland, and discover new landscapes at your own pace.

No matter your destination choice for holidays in February half-term, P&O Ferries makes getting there easy, comfortable, and fun.

A family day trip to Calais is an excellent method for anyone seeking a short getaway to explore French culture, delicious food, and nearby sights. Find out how to organise the ideal Family Day Trip to Calais today. And if they want to bring a friend along, P&O Ferries makes it easy with no extra cost for foot passengers.

February Half Term Holidays to France

There is something for every kind of tourist in France - that's what makes it an excellent option for a February half-term holiday. France offers amazing experiences whether you're organising a winter sports retreat, a relaxing break away for all the family, or a cultural city visit.

Best February Half Term Holidays - Firsts for Little Explorers

A trip to Paris over the February half-term holiday offers the chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. Imagine your children seeing the delights of the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, whilst munching on some freshly made croissants in a pretty café, or witnessing the Eiffel Tower shine for the first time.

Families may enter a magical world at Disneyland Paris. Both kids and adults will adore the experience. Here you will be able to witness the magic of Disney right before your child’s eyes when they meet their favourite characters, and enjoy every moment when going on exhilarating rides. Additionally, taking the car on a ferry trip makes it simple to see areas outside of the city too.

For more ideas on how to make the most of your trip, our guide on Things to Do in Paris offers lots of different options so no one will be bored.

February Half Term Holidays to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is also a great February half term holiday destination, with its ideal mix of culture, adventure, and activities for the entire family.

For parents with young children, Amsterdam's interactive museums such as the NEMO Science Museum and the Artis Royal Zoo offer everyone useful lessons and fun. A ferry trip along the city's renowned canals is also a must and provides a pleasant way of doing some sightseeing this February half term.

For families with teenagers, a February half term holiday to Amsterdam gives them the chance to enjoy a little independence. They can explore trendy spots like Jordaan or visit the Anne Frank House, gaining a deeper appreciation for history.

Want to explore beyond Amsterdam?  Find inspiration with our guide on all the Things to Do in Rotterdam.

With our ferry routes from Hull to Rotterdam, travelling to Amsterdam is easy, comfortable, and hassle-free. Start planning your trip with Ferries to Holland.

February Half Term Holidays to Northern Ireland

For families looking for a scenic getaway, Northern Ireland is an ideal place to spend the February half term break.

Begin in Belfast, where you can visit Titanic Belfast Museum, walk through Botanic Gardens, or take a mural tour to discover the city's history. Young families adore W5 Interactive Discovery Centre, which features masses of interactive science displays.

For nature lovers, the Giant's Causeway is a definite must-see this February holiday. Its rock formations are a magical backdrop for family walks and legends. A drive along the Causeway Coastal Route is stunning, crowned with Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle visits for a true Northern Irish adventure.

On the lookout for more hidden gems? Larne offers a charming coastal town with family-friendly activities. Check out Things to Do in Larne for more inspiration.

It's simple, flexible, and stress-free to travel to Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries' Cairnryan to Larne service. Plan your trip with our Ferries to Northern Ireland today and take your family on a relaxing (and equally unforgettable) February half-term holiday.

FAQs

Where to go on holiday in February half term?

There are plenty of February half term holiday destinations to explore with P&O Ferries. Whether you fancy a ski trip, a city break, or a coastal escape, there’s something for every family. Visit Disneyland Paris, explore Amsterdam’s museums, or take a scenic road trip through Northern Ireland—all with the ease of ferry travel.

When are February half term holidays?

The exact dates of February half term holidays vary depending on your child’s school, but they typically fall in the second half of February. Always check with your school for specific term dates before booking your trip.

What are the best family holidays for February half term?

For young children, Disneyland Paris or a countryside retreat in France is perfect. Teenagers will love Amsterdam or a skiing adventure. For road trips, Northern Ireland’s stunning landscapes offer great family time.

Where can I book my ferry for a February half term holiday?

Booking your ferry is simple with P&O Ferries. Choose from:

1. Dover to Calais for easy access to France and beyond

2. Hull to Rotterdam for trips to Holland

3. Cairnryan to Larne for exploring Northern Ireland

Plan your February half term getaway today and make memories with your family!

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