Best Places to Visit in March

Summary: March bridges the transition from winter to spring in the Northern Hemisphere and ushers in autumn in the Southern, presenting a wide range of travel opportunities. For those seeking cultural immersion and the early signs of spring, Japan offers an appealing start to its renowned cherry blossom season.

Conversely, Egypt provides consistent warmth and dry conditions, ideal for exploring ancient wonders without the intense heat of later months. Meanwhile, destinations like Costa Rica are in their dry season, making it an excellent time for nature and wildlife focused trips.

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1. Japan: Kyoto and Tokyo

March marks the beginning of the highly anticipated cherry blossom season across Japan, particularly in the south and central regions. While the peak bloom varies each year, early March can offer a quieter experience of the opening buds and the first bursts of colour in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo.

In Kyoto, explore historic temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where the crisp air enhances the contemplative atmosphere. Tokyo presents a contrast with its modern skyline and lively districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya, alongside peaceful gardens and parks where early cherry varieties may already be flowering.

This month provides a balance of cooler weather for extensive walking and the excitement of nature awakening.

2. Egypt: Nile Cruise, Luxor and Aswan

March offers some of the most comfortable weather for visiting Egypt's ancient sites, before the intense summer heat takes hold. A leisurely cruise along the River Nile from Luxor to Aswan provides a classic journey, stopping at key archaeological treasures.

In Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple stand as grand testaments to ancient pharaohs, their scale best appreciated in moderate temperatures. South in Aswan, the Philae Temple, located on an island, and the High Dam are easily accessible.

The desert air is typically dry and warm during the day, making exploration pleasant, with cooler evenings perfect for dining on a felucca or by the riverbank.

3. Portugal: Lisbon and Porto

Portugal in March offers mild, often sunny weather, making it an ideal choice for city breaks and coastal exploration before the summer crowds arrive. Lisbon, with its historic Alfama district, grand Comercio Square, and the iconic Belém Tower, invites exploration on foot.

The temperate conditions are perfect for riding the historic trams up steep hills or taking a day trip to the palaces of Sintra. Further north, Porto offers a different character, known for its Ribeira district alongside the Douro River, its port wine cellars, and the intricate azulejo tiles adorning many buildings.

Both cities benefit from comfortable temperatures, allowing for relaxed sightseeing and outdoor dining.

4. Costa Rica: Pacific Coast and Cloud Forests

March falls within Costa Rica's dry season, particularly on the Pacific side, making it an excellent time for nature lovers and adventurers. The Pacific coast beaches, such as those near Manuel Antonio National Park, offer sunshine and calm waters.

The park itself is a prime spot for observing capuchin monkeys, sloths, and diverse birdlife. Inland, the cooler, misty cloud forests of Monteverde provide a different experience, with suspended bridges offering unique perspectives of the canopy and its resident quetzals.

Water levels are typically lower in rivers, which can be advantageous for white-water rafting, while the drier trails are ideal for hiking.

5. Morocco: Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains

March brings comfortable, warm days and cool nights to Morocco, an ideal combination for exploring its busy cities and dramatic landscapes. Marrakech comes alive in the spring, with the Jemaa el-Fnaa square buzzing with storytellers and musicians, and the souks inviting discovery.

The Bahia Palace and Jardin Majorelle offer tranquil escapes from the city's energy. For a change of scenery, the Atlas Mountains are readily accessible for day trips or longer trekking.

Here, the snow-capped peaks provide a striking backdrop, and the valleys offer opportunities to experience traditional Berber villages, all under pleasant, clear skies before the intense heat of late spring and summer.

6. Chile: Patagonia (Torres del Paine)

March marks the transition from summer to autumn in Chilean Patagonia, offering a unique window to experience its raw beauty. While temperatures begin to cool, the weather can often be crisp and clear, providing excellent visibility for the region's dramatic landscapes.

The deciduous trees begin to change colour, painting the valleys in shades of gold and red, particularly in areas like Torres del Paine National Park. This month often sees fewer visitors than the peak summer period, allowing for a more serene experience on the hiking trails and around iconic granite peaks.

It's a prime time for active travellers willing to embrace changeable conditions and the start of a beautiful seasonal shift.

7. Jordan: Petra and Wadi Rum

Jordan in March offers superb conditions for exploring its historical treasures and desert landscapes. The ancient city of Petra, with its rock-cut architecture, including the famous Treasury and Monastery, is best navigated in mild temperatures, avoiding the intense summer sun.

The cooler air makes the extensive walking required to see the site's various features much more comfortable. Further south, the dramatic, expansive desert of Wadi Rum provides an ideal setting for camel treks, jeep safaris, and overnight stays in Bedouin camps.

The clear skies are perfect for stargazing, and the daytime warmth is pleasant without being oppressive.

8. Malta: Valletta and Gozo

March is an appealing time to visit Malta, offering pleasant, often sunny weather that is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the island's outdoor charms before the peak summer season. The capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invites exploration of its fortified streets, grand St. John's Co-Cathedral, and handsome harbours.

The archipelago's rich history is evident in its megalithic temples and ancient catacombs, which are comfortably visited in the spring air. Taking a ferry to the sister island of Gozo reveals a more tranquil pace, with opportunities for coastal walks and discovering charming villages.

While the sea may still be cool for swimming, the conditions are excellent for cultural discovery and scenic exploration.

9. Vietnam: Central and Southern Regions

March is generally a favourable month for exploring Vietnam, particularly its central and southern regions, where dry and warm conditions prevail. In Central Vietnam, the ancient town of Hoi An, with its lanterns and tailor shops, and the imperial city of Hue, are enjoyable in the comfortable climate.

Further south, cities like Ho Chi Minh City offer warm, dry weather, ideal for exploring its historical sites and busy markets. The Mekong Delta is also at its best, with river cruises and local market visits benefitting from the stable conditions.

The north, including Hanoi and Halong Bay, can still experience cooler, sometimes damp weather, making the central and south the primary focus for predictable sunshine.

10. New Zealand: South Island

As autumn begins in March, New Zealand's South Island transforms into a landscape of golden hues, offering a magnificent backdrop for outdoor activities. The air is often clear and crisp, and temperatures remain pleasant for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives around areas like Queenstown, Wanaka, and Fiordland National Park.

The changing foliage, particularly around the Arrowtown region, is striking. This shoulder season also means fewer crowds compared to the summer peak, allowing for a more serene experience of the fjords, mountains, and glacial lakes.

It’s an ideal time for those who appreciate natural beauty and outdoor exploration in a temperate climate.

Which March trip should you choose?

Your ideal March trip depends heavily on your desired climate and activities. For assured warmth and profound historical exploration, Egypt is a strong contender, offering comfortable conditions for ancient sites.

If you seek a lively cultural experience with the charm of emerging spring, Japan, particularly Kyoto and Tokyo, provides an early glimpse of cherry blossom season alongside its rich heritage. For a nature-focused adventure in warm, dry conditions, Costa Rica is excellent for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, cities like Lisbon and Porto in Portugal offer mild European city breaks, and Morocco combines urban bustle with mountain air. If autumn scenery and active outdoor pursuits appeal, Chilean Patagonia or New Zealand's South Island provide striking landscapes with fewer crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Is March a good month for beach holidays?

March offers good conditions for beach holidays in specific regions, particularly in parts of Central America like Costa Rica where it's the dry season, and in Southern Vietnam. Other destinations, such as Malta or even parts of Portugal, will be pleasant for coastal walks and sunshine, but the sea may still be too cool for comfortable swimming.

What kind of weather can I expect in the Northern Hemisphere in March?

Weather in the Northern Hemisphere in March is highly varied. Southern European cities like Lisbon and Valletta typically enjoy mild, sunny spring conditions. Further north, spring is just beginning, meaning changeable weather with a mix of cool, crisp days and possibly some rain. Desert regions like Jordan and Egypt are generally warm and dry.

Are there many crowds in March?

March generally falls into a shoulder season for many destinations, meaning fewer crowds than peak summer or winter. However, popular events like Japan's cherry blossom season, even in its early stages, can attract significant numbers of visitors to specific areas. Likewise, popular historical sites in Egypt can be busy due to favourable weather.

Is March suitable for hiking trips?

Yes, March is excellent for hiking in several regions. Patagonia in Chile and the South Island of New Zealand offer striking autumn landscapes for trekking. Morocco's Atlas Mountains provide pleasant conditions before the summer heat.

In Costa Rica, the dry season makes forest trails more accessible. Always check local conditions as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

What about safaris or wildlife viewing?

Costa Rica is a prime destination for wildlife viewing in March, with its dry season making animals more visible. You can spot monkeys, sloths, and diverse birdlife in its national parks and cloud forests.

Other featured destinations offer different types of natural encounters, such as birdwatching in wetland areas or marine life along coasts.

Can I visit cold weather destinations in March?

While this guide focuses on destinations transitioning to spring or autumn, parts of the Northern Hemisphere are still very much in winter in March, with opportunities for late-season skiing or cold-weather activities. However, for the destinations covered here, temperatures are generally rising or pleasantly mild, rather than intensely cold.

What kind of packing should I do for a March trip?

Packing for March requires versatility. For warm, dry destinations like Egypt or Costa Rica, light clothing, sun protection, and a light cover-up for evenings are appropriate. For places like Japan, Portugal, or Malta, layering is key, with sweaters, light jackets, and comfortable walking shoes.

For active trips in Patagonia or New Zealand, prepare for changeable weather with waterproofs and warm layers.

Is March a good time for budget travel?

As a shoulder season month for many places, March can offer good value compared to peak travel times. Accommodation and flight prices may be more favourable in some regions.

However, destinations with specific seasonal attractions, such as early cherry blossoms in Japan, might see higher demand and prices around those periods.

Final thoughts

March offers a compelling array of choices depending on your travel priorities. For a journey rooted in ancient history and reliable warmth, a Nile cruise through Egypt provides a comfortable and enriching experience, perfectly timed before the intense summer heat.

If you prefer a cultural escape infused with the beauty of emerging spring, Japan ’s early cherry blossom season around Kyoto and Tokyo offers a unique and memorable spectacle. Alternatively, for those seeking lively nature and outdoor adventure under a consistently warm sun, Costa Rica stands out as an excellent choice for wildlife and rainforest exploration.

Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.

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