Best February Destinations for Food and Wine Lovers: New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, and Argentina
Ready to savor exceptional culinary experiences after New Year's resolutions? February offers prime opportunities for food and drink adventures in ideal destinations.
Perfect weather elevates wine regions in New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, brimming with vintages. Don't miss Singapore's thriving Michelin-starred dining scene. It's the ideal time to explore gourmet delights...
Enjoy Intimate Feasts on New Zealand’s South Island
February is an optimal time in New Zealand. Temperatures reach 20-30°C (68-86°F), but with schools back in session, popular spots like Abel Tasman National Park are less crowded. Ideal for hiking, kayaking, and camping amid golden beaches and forested headlands. Extend your trip to Marlborough, home to over 150 wineries heavy with grapes pre-harvest (March-May). Cycle between cellar doors in the sunny weather. The Marlborough Food and Wine Festival in Blenheim highlights local produce: cherries, strawberries, apricots; Kaikoura cheese and Cloudy Bay clams; blue cod and green-lipped mussels from Marlborough Sounds. Vineyard restaurants and seafood cruises offer further indulgence.
- Trip plan: Pair Abel Tasman activities with Nelson's arts scene, Marlborough wine tours, and Kaikoura whale-watching.
- Need to know: Ferries from North Island arrive at Picton, 62 miles (100 km) east of Nelson, 19 miles (30 km) north of Blenheim.
- Other months: Dec-Feb – warmest, busiest; Mar-May – cooler, food-focused, quieter; Jun-Aug – cold, wet; Sep-Nov – warming.
Discover Singapore’s Gardens, Dry Weather, and World-Class Dining
Just 1° north of the equator, Singapore maintains 27°C (81°F) year-round. February is among the driest months and less crowded post-Chinese New Year holiday. High humidity eases in green spaces like the Botanic Gardens or innovative Gardens by the Bay (opened 2012). Venture into surrounding rainforests. Above all, savor the food: hawker centers for affordable excellence, and Michelin-recognized spots since 2016. Try chili crab, spicy rendang curry, and unique Nonya cuisine.
- Trip plan: Balance sightseeing with street-food tours in authentic neighborhoods.
- Need to know: Chinese New Year varies annually; check current dates.
- Other months: Nov-Jan – wettest; Feb-Oct – hot, humid, drier.
Relax in Daylesford, Australia: Mineral Springs and Vibrant Food Scene
Escape Melbourne's summer heat with a drive to Daylesford in Victoria's central highlands. Settled by Swiss-Italian miners in the 19th century, it charms with European flair, artisan culture, and culinary excellence. Enjoy lakes, botanic gardens, galleries, farm stalls, and fine dining. Rejuvenate at 72 natural mineral springs—sample varying tastes on nature trails. Explore local vineyards too.
- Trip plan: 90 minutes from Melbourne; base for Macedon Ranges, villages, and gold-rush sites. Luxe stays suit romantic getaways.
- Need to know: For hotter days, ascend Mt Macedon (3314 ft/1010m), a historic elite retreat.
- Other months: Dec-Feb – hot; Mar-May – harvest, mild; Jun-Aug – cold, crisp; Sep-Nov – warming, blooming.
Celebrate Harvest Season in Mendoza, Argentina’s Wine Heartland
February peaks in Mendoza, Argentina's wine epicenter. Vineyards blanket hillsides, laden with fruit before March harvest. Festive bodegas (around 900) host tours, tastings, and events. Base in tree-lined Mendoza or stay at vineyard estates with Andean views. Dry, sunny days suit biking, hiking, horseback riding, and golf, followed by robust Malbec.
- Trip plan: Fly 2 hours from Buenos Aires. Tour vineyards; add walks, rides, or northern Cafayate wineries.
- Need to know: Vendimia Harvest Festival: first weekend in March.
- Other months: Dec-Jan – hottest; Feb-May – prime wine tours; Jun-Aug – cool, skiing nearby; Sep-Nov – spring blooms.
For more ideas, explore our book Where To Go When for 360 curated escapes, from family adventures to wildlife and retreats.
