Are you planning a spring getaway in one of the European countries? Then, you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we share the best places to visit in Europe in March.
We traveled extensively in Europe in March and would love to share insights from our past trips.
London in the spring: Best places to visit in March in Europe
March in Europe is a time of transition, blending the remnants of winter with the hints of spring. It’s a month when you can watch cities come alive with the promise of warmer days and blossoming new life.
Navigating a continent as rich in culture and history as Europe can be challenging, so here’s your guide on where to go in March.
28 Best Places to Visit in Europe in March 2024 | Sunny Cities & Fun Festivals
Best places to visit in March in Europe
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March is considered a shoulder season in Europe, which makes it a cheaper time to travel almost anywhere. You’ll likely find great flight deals, budget accommodation, and mostly lower costs for activities than you’d be charged in summer.
You might also find fewer crowds of visitors. Still, it’s important to remember that March is often Easter time, and other festivals are happening in different cities, which can make it busier.
Cardiff in spring
Prague in the spring
If you want a more secluded or quiet vacation, aim for one of the European destinations that are still slightly wintery and yet to bloom with sunshine and fun.
Whether you want warm beaches as the northern hemisphere comes out of winter or there’s a festival that’s caught your eye, Europe in March is a fantastic time. Here are a few of the best places to visit for various reasons.
1. Edinburgh, Scotland – A more affordable visit
If you ask seasoned travelers when the best time to visit Edinburgh is, they’re probably not going to say March, but we disagree. This month is cheaper than the peak season, warmer than the winter months, and brings plenty of charm and beauty.
Princes Street and gardens view
March is the first month of spring in Edinburgh, so it’s still breezy and cool, but you’ll start to see the magnificent greenery that the country is known for coming out of its snowy sleep.
If you visit around March 17th, you will also experience St. Patrick’s Day in Edinburgh. This is a much bigger event in Ireland, but pubs around Scotland and the United Kingdom also participate and bring out festive cheer, music, and plenty of drinks.
Popular attractions like the Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, and the National Museum are open. We enjoyed soaking in the sun at the Princess Gardens, capturing the beautiful flowers, and taking in the breathtaking views from Arthur’s Seat.
Edinburgh’s average highs in March are around 7 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit), although when you consider that summer highs are only around 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit), the difference isn’t that big.
Read more: Check out our guide on how to spend 3 Days in Edinburgh .
2. Barcelona, Spain – To enjoy the pleasant spring weather
While it’s not quite warm in Barcelona yet, March brings some relief from the colder months here. You can expect temperatures ranging between 0 to 18 degrees Celsius (50 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit).
This pleasant weather means you can discover Barcelona’s magnificent city architecture, parks, and outdoor fun without freezing your fingertips. You can also enjoy a beach day or two, although we wouldn’t suggest trying to swim during March.
Nights are cooler, and you will likely experience rain during your visit. Bring spring clothing that lets you get sun on your skin, but don’t forget a rain jacket and warmer clothing once the sun goes down.
Inside Sagrada Familia
This is a quieter month for Barcelona regarding queues and crowds at tourist attractions. You can visit places like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the historic Gothic Quarter with little interruption.
Spending March in Barcelona means you can participate in the city’s festivities, like ‘Festa di Sant Medir’ and ‘Festes de Sant Josep Oriol.’
Read: 2 days in Barcelona itinerary | Best viewpoints in Barcelona | Best Barcelona souvenirs
3. Vienna, Austria – Visit the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) in early spring
March in Vienna is still colder, but this means you get to see so much of the city without sharing the sights with many other travelers.
The average temperature here, during the day, is about 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit). Some days could be as low as 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit), and most nights will still be below freezing.
A few showers are also expected throughout the month, often making it the perfect time to see a concert or stop at a cozy cafe for a cup of coffee.
The museums and the iconic palaces such as the Hofburg, Belvedere, and Schrunbrunn are also great options to keep busy in March. This brings a cool but welcoming atmosphere to Vienna.
You can also join walking tours – just remember to bundle up and stroll down the streets, admiring the city’s beauty. Then, in the evenings, cuddle up next to a fire and watch as the city lights create a new perspective.
The only time you’ll see a bustling Vienna in March is when Easter falls within the month. Even with the crowds, this is a brilliant time to visit the city and enjoy the festivities.
Read more: Our full guide on visiting Vienna in March has all the insider tips you need.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands – See the blooming tulips at Keukenhof Gardens
In March, you won’t see temperatures higher than 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit) in Amsterdam. But the later in the month you visit, the warmer it starts to get.
View of Amsterdam and canals in March
Visiting Amsterdam in March means you’ll still feel the chill of winter, but you get to enjoy the first signs of spring. This includes glimpses of the blooming tulips and other flowers in and around the city.
The Keukenhof Gardens open in mid-March, allowing the first visitors to see the tulips returning to life after sleeping all winter. The city does experience a lot of rain, though, since March is one of the wettest months of the year in Amsterdam .
Bring an umbrella and a pair of Wellington boots, and book your slots for the many museums around the city. Amsterdam in March allows you to enjoy more indoor activities — which the city has no shortage of — with fewer crowds since it’s not the most popular month to visit.
March is also the best time to catch Cinedans , the world’s largest and most diverse dance film festival.
Read: Amsterdam Brussels Paris itinerary
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia – For fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures
March is the shoulder season in Dubrovnik, which means all of the best specials on travel and much fewer tourists to share the space with.
You’ll save on your flight tickets, accommodation, and even a few activities this month (some are completely free, while you’d be charged in summer).
However, it is still chilly in Dubrovnik , and so many people wait for summer to visit.
A stay in Dubrovnik during March is still great for hiking, strolling the city streets, and even a day trip to Lokrum Island. If it’s raining, escape the wet weather by visiting the museums and churches.
Dubrovnik Fortress
Temperatures in Dubrovnik in March fluctuate quite a bit; you’ll have a few days that go as low as 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit) but then be surprised with pleasant days of around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit).
We suggest you pack accordingly, bringing along light layers and planning for rainy days. During March, the city usually has around 11 days of rain. However, you will have an average of six hours of sunlight daily, more than enough to discover the city’s historic sites.
Read more: Why we love visiting Croatia in March
6. Prague, Czech Republic – Catch the Spring Music Festival
Much like the cities near Prague, this side of Europe is still slightly cold in March. Average monthly highs tend to stay around the 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) mark, with nights dipping to about 2 degrees Celsius (35 degrees Fahrenheit).
March usually has around 16 days of rain, but the clouds start to disappear almost entirely towards the end of the month. Again, this city offers plenty of fantastic rainy-day activities, so you’ll never feel like a day is wasted here.
Just be sure to dress for cooler spring weather, and make sure you bring an umbrella with you. This is usually the quieter time in Prague, with only the shoulder-season travelers to stand ahead of you in lines to Prague Castle and other must-see landmarks.
A major bonus of visiting Prague in March is that this month has an almost full lineup of festivals and events in the city.
Look out for the Young Bohemia Prague Festival, Fun Fatale, and the Shockproof Film Festival. Not forgetting the Spring Music Festival , of course.
Prague’s historic old town is a popular Unesco World Heritage Site, and with fewer crowds, you can easily check off the Castle grounds, Vitus Cathedral, and Charles Bridge.
We loved photographing this historic city in March – early mornings or evenings with mist in the air make it a great place for moody captures for Instagram.
Read more : We have a more in-depth guide on what to expect when visiting Prague in March and April .
7. Bruges, Belgium – For the delicious delicacies
Nothing is better than savoring a sweet waffle, indulging in Belgian chocolate, or warming up with a refreshing beer (it works, we promise). And March in Bruges brings all of these experiences and more.
Despite the chilly weather, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your time in Belgium, try the many different restaurants and cafes, and taste the country’s cuisine. Bruges also promises stunning museums, such as the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Visiting during this month offers average daily highs of between 7 and 9 degrees Celsius (45 – 48 degrees Fahrenheit). There’s much less rain expected compared to the wetter winter months, usually less than six days in the whole month.
The city is still under a bit of winter’s blanket during March, but spring will slowly start to peek out, and you might just be able to see a few of the flowers begin their bloom.
8. Athens, Greece – The cheapest time to fly
If Greece is on your bucket list but worried about the crowds and expenses, you’ll love this good news! Thanks to the low season, March in Athens means much fewer crowds than you’d expect in Greece and slightly lower costs.
The average temperature for Athens in March is around 17 degrees Celsius (62 degrees Fahrenheit); even nighttime temperatures don’t usually drop below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit).
The mild temperatures are great for exploring the outdoor sites such as the Acropolis and learning about Athern’s rich history.
March is one of the cheapest months to book your flight to Athens. You’ll also enjoy cool, warm weather, with a few rainy days and glorious Greek sunshine. The winter chill is leaving, and spring is starting in March.
Even if you do wake up to rain, chances are it won’t last the full day anyway. We would not suggest that you try to go swimming or expect days of suntanning on the beaches in Athens in March, but there is still plenty of island city life to enjoy here.
9. Paris, France – The City of Love Beckons
Paris needs no introduction, with its timeless architecture and rich history. In March, the city’s green spaces awaken with the bloom of colorful flowers, and café terraces buzz with the first warmth of the year.
From the Louvre’s iconic glass pyramid to the majestic Eiffel Tower , Paris is a treasure trove for any visitor. Wander through cobbled streets, embrace the arts, and indulge in an incredible culinary scene.
The Musée d’Orsay, which once was a railway station, showcases a captivating collection of Impressionist art. Despite the tragedy, the Notre Dame Cathedral symbolizes Parisian resilience and architectural splendor.
Musee d’Orsay Paris France
For a unique perspective, take a boat cruise along the Seine River. Stop at Montmartre to experience its bohemian spirit and panoramic city views.
March is also an excellent time to visit the Palace of Versailles on a day trip – the crowds are sparse, and you can leisurely explore the grandeur of French history and gardens.
While March in Paris can still be brisk, temperatures climb from the single digits to low teens in Celsius. The tail end of winter in early March may bring some snow, but you might catch clear, sunny days as the month progresses.
Read : 4 days in Paris itinerary | Best time to visit Paris, France
10. Rome, Italy – For Brilliant Easter celebrations and quieter streets
We all know that Rome is a busy city, and when it’s hot, it’s sizzling! But March in Rome? That’s almost like visiting a different city (with all the same sights you’re looking for). This shoulder season month brings warm but still pleasant weather and far fewer throngs of people than you’ll see in summer.
You can expect temperatures of around 7 to 11 degrees Celsius (52 – 63 degrees Fahrenheit) in the city, which is comfortable enough to walk around – not too hot or too cold.
And since the city stays open year-round, there’s nothing that you’ll miss out on visiting at the start of spring.
This is also a good time to visit the Vatican City since there will be much more space to walk around and explore and fewer people to explore with.
Just be aware that when Easter falls in March, you will meet those typical Italian crowds visiting Rome. However, this is also a beautiful time in the city, making it worth it.
Read: How to spend 4 days in Rome | Best Rome Instagram spots
11. Reykjavik, Iceland – Grab the chance to see the Northern Lights
So many people list Iceland as a great destination to see the Northern Lights. And it is — if you’re visiting at the right time of the year. Since March in Iceland means days of less sun and more dark hours, it’s easier to see this natural phenomenon.
However, you do need to be aware that visiting Iceland in March will require warm clothing, heavy boots, and some good thawing out when you return to your hotel after seeking out the Aurora Borealis.
Average daytime temperatures in March range from -2 to 3.3 degrees Celsius (28 – 38 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is also quite moody, ranging from snow to rain and sprinkling in a bit of sunshine now and then.
From Reykjavik, you can embark on day tours (open all year round) to the Golden Circle or the South Coast . You can also book some winter excursions in March and soak in the natural beauty, such as snowmobiling or ice walks.
Iceland in March is cold but beautiful, and when you’re not spying on the gorgeous colors in the sky, you can enjoy the many stunning sights and attractions at a fraction of the cost you’d experience in the warmer months.
If you are worried about cooler temperatures, you can always head to the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon to enjoy the lukewarm geothermal waters.
Read more: Here’s a guide on how to plan your trip to Iceland
12. Lisbon, Portugal – Pleasant spring temperatures and Fado music
If it’s March warmth you’re after, Lisbon is the perfect place to find it. Here, you can expect average high temperatures of up to 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit), much warmer than other parts of Europe at this time of the year.
There also isn’t a lot of rain expected in March, generally, with just a few scattered showers that help bring spring freshness to the air. You can enjoy the Portuguese sun in March without having to bundle up too much or miss out on outdoor activities.
We recommend embarking on a walking tour of the historical sites and stopping at the Lisbon Cathedral, visiting the neighborhood of Alfama, and taking in the best views from its many (free) Miradouros.
Just be sure to have a light jacket and something rainproof for the odd occasion you get stuck in a shower. The mornings and nights are much cooler than the daytime, so wear layers.
March in Lisbon brings events and festivals galore, and everything is open, allowing you to explore the city to its fullest. It’s also not a bad time to hit the waves for a surfing session.
Other absolute must-sees in Lisbon include the Belem Tower, Jeromious Monastery, Santa Justa Lift, Carmo Convent, and the LX Factory . We love visiting in the off-season as it welcomes visitors with the best weather and is an excellent time to visit indoor and outdoor attractions (without too much heat and crowds).
Read: 2 days in Lisbon itinerary | How many days in Lisbon is enough
13. Munich, Germany – Springtime, beer, and winter sports
Landing in Germany at any time during the month of March will bring you a lucky packet of weather conditions. It could be cold and rainy, snowing, or you could be greeted by the sunniest day.
Regardless of the weather, though, March is a superb time to visit Munich for many reasons. One of these is the massive beer culture in the city, which includes St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
The Strong Beer Festival, a cousin of the famous Oktoberfest, is another popular excuse to visit Munich in March.
You can also plan a road trip from Munich to explore more of Bavaria . From Nuremberg to the prettiest Neuschwanstein Castle , you will find many popular places with fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit.
Since March isn’t too warm yet, with average highs of 10 degrees Celsius (49 degrees Fahrenheit), visiting Munich during this time of year still allows for some winter sports.
Be sure to pack for all kinds of weather, as you won’t know what to expect until you get there.
Read : 3 days in Munich itinerary
14. Nice, France – Don’t miss the Nice Carnival
Do you feel like more of a Mediterranean March trip? Nice, France is much sunnier than some of its neighbors towards the end of winter. The temperatures here usually sit at around 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit) — which is not hot, but it’s pleasant enough to sightsee.
It does get much cooler at night, so be prepared and bring warm pajamas. This seafront city receives plenty of hours of sunshine during the early spring months, although the sea is still too cold for most to enjoy swimming.
From late February to early March, the Nice Carnival is a must-see for anyone who gets the chance. Although this period will have the streets bustling with crowds, the brilliance of the carnival makes up for the lack of personal space.
The Mercantour National Park is also stunning in March, mostly covered in snow and offering a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. You may experience a day or two of rain during your stay, so bring waterproof jackets.
15. Cardiff, Wales, UK: The Land of Castles and Myth
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, bursts with a history that stretches back more than 2,000 years. This is one of the best cities to explore in the United Kingdom in the spring. We saw flowers blooming everywhere during our visit.
Also, the city offers a more intimate, yet equally engaging, experience compared to its European counterparts. With its impressive castles, lush parks, and bustling waterfront, Cardiff is a gem worth discovering.
Step back in time at Cardiff Castle, with its Roman walls and medieval fort nestled in the city’s heart. The Castle is a window into Welsh heritage and history, not to mention the unique Arcades for shopping and local eateries to satisfy your taste buds.
As you explore, you’ll find the local storytelling traditions come alive in the city’s many nooks and crannies.
In March, you can expect some sunny days (check the weather forecast if you are planning only a day trip to Cardiff from London), but temperatures are still in the single digits, with a high of 11 degrees Celcius (52 F).
Read: One day in Cardiff itinerary
16. Cinque Terre, Italy – Charming coastal villages in a less crowded setting
March is not considered one of the best months to visit Cinque Terre , but we’d disagree and tell you why.
In March, you start to see the temperatures rising here, going from icy winter to a more pleasant average of 11 degrees Celsius (52 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s also when the region begins to reopen after many restaurants and attractions close in winter.
Italy. Cinque Terre. Manarola
The scattered rain showers bring new growth of plants and flowers to the islands, and hiking is not just possible; it’s very delightful (if you don’t mind a bit of dampness). There’s also the bonus of all trails being free to hike until mid-March.
Everything does start to get more expensive in Cinque Terre towards the end of March, but if you visit early, you’ll still likely find a few budget-friendly hotels and flights.
If you’re here for Easter, you can expect major celebrations, bigger crowds, and the start of the busier season for these exquisite seaside villages. One of the best things to do in Cinque Terre is to walk/hike to various villages and hang out at a nice cafe in the spring (or soak in the sun during warmer weather).
Read: 10 days in Italy itinerary
17. Interlaken, Switzerland – Winter sports amid stunning alpine scenery
Okay, winter lovers, this is for you. Interlaken is cold in March! It is so cold that some days, the temperature stays below freezing all day. Typically, you can expect anything from -2 to 8 degrees Celsius (28 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), which can be quite wet.
Interlaken in March
So why would you visit a snowy, rainy Interlaken in March? Because it’s beautiful. The snowy mountains offer a magical scene, true year-round, especially in March. And if you’re a fan of skiing or snowboarding, this is the best time to visit.
March sees many honeymooners visiting Interlaken, which makes sense when you consider days spent speeding down snowy mountain slopes and evenings in front of a fire with a glass of wine.
You will get almost 12 hours of daylight, so there is plenty of time to see sights like Jungfrau Mountain and Schilthorn Mountain.
The colder months are also great for paragliding, skydiving, and even kayaking – you won’t be stuck indoors if you’re not afraid of the cold.
Read: Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary
18. Santorini, Greece – Enjoy a quieter Santorini in March
From cold to warm and welcoming, Santorini is for those who prefer a light sweater to a heavy-duty jacket and wish to include one of the Greek Islands for spring break.
The temperatures here in March can go as high as 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit) and usually don’t dip lower than 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
Traditional architecture of Oia village at Santorini island in Greece
The only downside to visiting right at the end of winter is that you will likely experience quite a few downpours. The weather makes up for it when it’s sunny, though, making you almost completely forget about how soaked you got just a day or two before.
The best part of visiting Santorini in March is that the conditions are still not ideal. The Aegean Sea is cool, and the weather is unpredictable, so there aren’t many people flocking to the island. This makes it quieter, but it also helps reduce the prices of flights and hotels.
You might still find a few places are closed since some will wait until the season kicks in, but you can enjoy the museums, the wines, and grabbing good days for a day trip to other islands or lazing on the gorgeous beaches.
19. Mostar, Bosnia Herzegovina – Where East Meets West
Mostar is a beautiful city, notable for its iconic bridge that spans the Neretva River. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Western influences converging to create a unique architectural and culinary landscape.
March in Mostar is particularly special, with landmarks free from the crowds and a welcoming atmosphere. Plus, you can expect warmer temperatures from late March onwards.
Check out the Old Bridge, or Stari Most, a symbol of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site in Mostar. It offers sublime views and is especially picturesque in March when the river flows strongly and the hills surrounding the city turn green.
You can usually see people jumping off the jump into the river in the summer months, but it is quite rare in March when the water is cold.
But you can indulge in a traditional Turkish coffee, which is warm, in one of the many cafes lining the bridge or brave the “mostari.”
The historic town features cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture, where you can take in the Kujundžiluk bazaar’s sights, scents, and sounds—sample cevapi, the region’s delightful minced meat dish, in a local restaurant. Be sure to visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for a panoramic view of the city (minaret entry fee is around 3 euros).
March offers a prelude to the dry and warm season, making it ideal for exploring without the heat.
Read : Balkan travel tips
20. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands: A Slice of Paradise
Eternally spring-like, Gran Canaria is an island of contrasts, with its stunning beaches, soaring mountains, and a rich tapestry of traditional Spanish culture infused with South American and African flavors.
March is the perfect time to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and embrace the local festivities that mark the beginning of the tourist season.
Beautiful view of Las Palmas city, Gran Canaria, Spain
Offering a multitude of contrasts, Gran Canaria is home to one of the world’s most unique cities, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, with its stunning Colonial architecture and the bustling atmosphere of its historic neighborhoods.
The island also boasts a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where you can hike through the island’s diverse landscapes. March in Gran Canaria is a springtime delight, with temperatures sitting comfortably in the mid-twenties.
Or delve into the island’s culture at the Canarian Museum, housed in the Columbus House. Columbus was said to have stayed in this traditional Canarian manor on his way to the Americas.
(Note that the Las Palmas Carnival takes place in February in Gran Canaria. It is a dazzling celebration of music, dance, and costumed revelry that rivals Rio’s carnival.)
21. Zadar, Croatia – For stunning sunsets on the Dalmatian Coast
If you’ve never had the chance to see Croatia before, visiting during spring is a fantastic first-time option. The weather is mild during March, which allows you to fully embrace the outdoor splendor without getting too hot and sweaty.
Cathedral of Zadar, Calle larga, Dalmatia, Croatia
Although it can be quite humid, and rain is not uncommon in March. Overall, the weather could be more pleasant to interfere with your Zadar itinerary plans.
The average temperature will stay around 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit) most days, getting cooler at night.
The best thing to do here is put on a few layers, pack an umbrella into your backpack, and venture out to explore the national parks with their waterfalls and natural wonders. There are also lots of little city streets to stroll down and find hidden gems while they’re still calm.
Check off the 11th-century St. Mary’s Convent (home to religious art), 12th-century St. Anastasia’s Cathedral, and the 9th-century pre-Romanesque Church of St. Donatus on your Croatia itinerary . Don’t miss the Greeting to the Sun (particularly on March 24) and the Sea Organ.
March in Zadar is also just before the tourist season begins, meaning crowds are fewer and prices are lower – all bonuses for those smart enough to book our trips in the shoulder seasons.
Read: Visit this coastal city and more in our 10 days in Croatia itinerary
2 2. Crete, Greece – Blooming wildflowers and lower prices
We’re not done with gorgeous Greek islands in March yet. And Crete may be one of the best warm places to visit in Greece in March.
View of Crete Harbour
The island is one of the first to see signs of spring in this region, and in March, warm temperatures could reach up to 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). How
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