March is a great month to travel because the world is in the midst of changing seasons. Europe starts warming up, parts of Asia are still enjoying dry, sunny weather, and destinations in the Southern Hemisphere begin to move into autumn. The season’s biggest single draw is Japan’s cherry blossom period. Japan welcomed a record 3.62 million international arrivals in March 2026 alone, part of an overall 10.68 million visitors in the first quarter of the year, a clear signal of just how much late March demand this one natural event generates.
That gives travelers plenty of choices. You can watch cherry blossoms appear in Japan, explore Morocco before the summer heat, spend a week on a Thai island, see wildlife in Costa Rica, or enjoy a quieter European city break. Timing matters, though early March is actually one of Japan’s least crowded travel windows, with hotel rates in Kyoto and Tokyo holding close to winter pricing before rising sharply once the blossoms open in late March, so travelers chasing lower costs and thinner crowds may prefer the first half of the month.
The best places to visit in March depend on what you want from your trip. For warm beaches, Thailand and the Maldives are excellent choices. For culture and spring scenery, Japan stands out. If you want wildlife and outdoor adventures, Costa Rica and South Africa are hard to beat.
Below, you’ll find 15 destinations worth considering, along with the best places to go, things to do, March weather, who each destination suits, and practical planning advice.
Best Places to Visit in March at a Glance
| Destination | Best For | March Experience | Recommended Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | Cherry blossoms and culture | Early spring | 7–14 days |
| Morocco | History and desert trips | Mild and comfortable | 5–10 days |
| Portugal | Cities and coastline | Mild spring weather | 5–8 days |
| Thailand | Beaches and islands | Hot and tropical | 7–14 days |
| Costa Rica | Wildlife and adventure | Dry season in many areas | 7–12 days |
| New Zealand | Road trips and hiking | Early autumn | 10–14 days |
| Spain | Culture and festivals | Spring-like in many areas | 5–10 days |
| Maldives | Beaches and diving | Warm and tropical | 5–8 days |
| Italy | Food, history and art | Cool to mild | 7–12 days |
| Greece | History and islands | Mild, before summer | 5–10 days |
| South Africa | Safari and scenery | Warm to mild | 7–14 days |
| Vietnam | Food and culture | Favorable in many regions | 7–14 days |
| Australia | Beaches and nature | Early autumn | 10–14 days |
| Mexico | Beaches and culture | Warm and generally dry | 7–12 days |
| Switzerland | Mountains and skiing | Winter-to-spring | 5–10 days |
Weather varies by region and can change from year to year. Check current forecasts before traveling.
15 Best Places to visit in March
1. Japan
Best for: Cherry blossoms, food, temples, culture and seasonal scenery
If there is one destination that immediately comes to mind when talking about March travel, it is Japan.
March marks the beginning of spring, although the experience depends heavily on where you are. Southern parts of the country generally warm up earlier, while northern areas can still feel like winter.
The biggest attraction is, of course, cherry blossom season. But there’s an important catch cherry blossoms do not appear everywhere at the same time. Their timing depends on location and weather.
The Japan National Tourism Organization notes that March is a transition period, with temperatures becoming milder while snow can remain in mountainous areas. (Japan National Tourism Organization)
Where to Go in Japan
- Tokyo is a good introduction to the country. You can combine modern neighborhoods with traditional gardens, temples and excellent food.
- Kyoto is ideal if you’re interested in temples, shrines and traditional Japanese architecture.
- Osaka is the place to go if food is high on your list. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki and countless other local dishes make the city a favorite among food lovers.
For an earlier taste of spring, consider Fukuoka or other parts of southern Japan.
Things to Do in March
Explore Tokyo’s parks and gardens
- Visit Kyoto’s temples
- Take a day trip toward Mount Fuji
- Experience a Japanese onsen
- Try regional Japanese food
- Check local cherry blossom forecasts
- Visit traditional markets
Is Japan Expensive in March?
It can be. Demand rises around cherry blossom season, particularly in popular cities.
If your dates are flexible, compare accommodation prices across several cities and avoid assuming that every part of Japan will be equally busy.
March tip: Pack layers. Tokyo and Kyoto can be cool, especially in the morning and evening.
2. Morocco
Best for: Desert adventures, markets, architecture and food
Morocco is one of those destinations that works particularly well when you want to spend most of your vacation outdoors.
March offers a useful middle ground. The weather is generally more comfortable for exploring cities than during the hottest part of summer, while the desert and mountain regions offer completely different experiences.
You can start your trip in Marrakech, travel north to Fez or Chefchaouen, then head toward the Sahara.
Best Places to Visit
- Marrakech
- Fez
- Chefchaouen
- Essaouira
- Agadir
- Merzouga
- Atlas Mountains
Why Visit Morocco in March?
Marrakech’s medina can be fascinating to explore, but walking through narrow streets for hours becomes much harder when temperatures are extremely high.
March allows more comfortable sightseeing.
You can visit palaces and gardens in the morning, spend the afternoon exploring markets, and enjoy Moroccan food in the evening.
Don’t Miss the Sahara
A trip into the Sahara is one of Morocco’s most memorable experiences.
Merzouga is one of the main gateways for desert excursions. A typical trip may include a camel ride, sunset views, a night in a desert camp, and sunrise over the dunes.
Remember that desert temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
3. Portugal
Best for: Couples, food, coastal scenery and European city breaks
Portugal is a smart choice for travelers who want Europe without the intense heat and crowds of summer.
March is still part of the wetter season in many areas, so you should not expect guaranteed sunshine. But temperatures are generally much more comfortable than during the peak summer months.
i) Lisbon
Lisbon is an excellent base for a first trip.
Spend time exploring Alfama, visit historic viewpoints, ride the city’s famous trams and take a day trip to Sintra.
ii) Porto
Porto offers a completely different atmosphere. Its riverside neighborhoods, historic buildings and food scene make it worth several days.
iii) Algarve
The Algarve is better suited to scenic walks and coastal exploration in March than to a traditional swimming holiday.
You can explore cliffs, beaches and small towns without the intense summer heat.
iv) Madeira
If nature is more important to you than city sightseeing, Madeira deserves a place on your list.
Its volcanic landscapes, hiking routes and dramatic coastline make it one of Portugal’s most interesting destinations for outdoor travelers.
4. Thailand
Best for: Beaches, islands, food and tropical vacations
If your idea of a March vacation involves warm water, palm trees and long days outside, Thailand should be near the top of your list.
March is generally hot, particularly as the country moves toward the hottest part of the year.
Thailand’s climate varies by region, so conditions are not identical everywhere. The Tourism Authority of Thailand provides regional weather information for travelers planning trips.
Where to Go
- Phuket is convenient and offers a wide choice of hotels, restaurants, and activities.
- Krabi is better if dramatic limestone cliffs and island excursions appeal to you.
- Koh Samui offers another island option and can work well for a slower vacation.
- Bangkok should not be ignored. The capital is packed with temples, markets, restaurants and neighborhoods worth exploring.
Things to Do
- Island hopping
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Temple visits
- Thai cooking classes
- Night markets
- Beach days
- Street-food tours
A Practical Warning
March can be hot. Don’t build an itinerary that has you walking outdoors from morning until night.
Start sightseeing early, take breaks during the hottest part of the day and keep water with you.
5. Costa Rica
Best for: Wildlife, rainforests, beaches and adventure
Costa Rica is a fantastic option for travelers who would rather explore than sit beside a hotel pool.
March falls toward the end of the dry season in many parts of the country, which can make it a convenient period for outdoor activities.
Where to Go
- Manuel Antonio combines rainforest, wildlife and beaches.
- Arenal is famous for its volcano and hot springs.
- Monteverde is known for cloud forests and adventure activities.
- Guanacaste is a strong choice for beaches and sunny weather.
What Makes Costa Rica Special?
The country packs an enormous amount of natural variety into a relatively small area.
One day you could be hiking through rainforest. The next, you could be relaxing beside the Pacific.
Wildlife is another major attraction. Depending on where you travel, you may see monkeys, sloths, colorful birds and other native species.
Things to Do
Wildlife watching
- Ziplining
- Hiking
- Surfing
- Volcano tours
- Hot springs
- Snorkeling
- National park visits
March tip: Popular beach towns can become busy during holiday periods, so book accommodation ahead if you have fixed dates.
6. New Zealand
Best for: Road trips, mountains, hiking and nature
March is early autumn in New Zealand, and that makes it a particularly attractive time for road trips.
The summer rush starts to fade, while many outdoor attractions remain accessible.
i) South Island
If dramatic landscapes are your priority, spend more time on the South Island.
Consider:
- Queenstown
- Wanaka
- Fiordland
- Milford Sound
- Christchurch
Queenstown is especially good for adventure activities, while Milford Sound offers some of the country’s most impressive scenery.
ii) North Island
The North Island offers a different experience.
Explore Auckland, Rotorua and geothermal areas around the central North Island.
Why March Works
You get a mixture of pleasant days, changing autumn scenery and fewer peak-summer pressures.
However, New Zealand’s weather can change quickly. A road trip should always include some flexibility.
7. Spain
Best for: Food, architecture, history and festivals
Spain is another European country that becomes attractive as winter gives way to spring.
Southern Spain is usually a better choice for warmer weather, while northern regions can still feel cool.
Best Places to Visit
- Seville
- Barcelona
- Madrid
- Valencia
- Málaga
- Granada
- Canary Islands
Experience Las Fallas in Valencia
One of March’s biggest European cultural events is Las Fallas, held in Valencia from March 15 to 19.
The festival is famous for enormous artistic sculptures, parades, fireworks and public celebrations.
If you want to attend, don’t treat it like a spontaneous weekend trip. Accommodation demand can be high.
Why Visit Spain in March?
You can explore historic neighborhoods, museums and restaurants without the summer heat.
Seville is particularly enjoyable for walking, while Barcelona offers a combination of architecture, food and Mediterranean atmosphere.
8. Maldives
Best for: Honeymoons, luxury, diving and pure relaxation
The Maldives is a straightforward choice if you want a tropical escape.
Instead of moving between several cities, you can spend most of your vacation on one island or resort.
March generally offers warm tropical conditions, making it popular for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
Things to Do
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Sunset cruises
- Island excursions
- Kayaking
- Water sports
- Resort dining
- Beach relaxation
Is the Maldives Worth Visiting in March?
For travelers who want a relaxing beach holiday, yes.
The main issue is cost. Resort accommodation and transfers can make the Maldives considerably more expensive than destinations such as Thailand or Vietnam.
Compare the complete package, not just the nightly room price.
9. Italy
Best for: History, food, art and romantic city breaks
Italy doesn’t need summer weather to be enjoyable.
In fact, March can be a great time to focus on the country’s cities and cultural attractions.
Rome is packed with ancient landmarks, Florence is a dream for art lovers, and Bologna is one of the country’s best destinations for food.
Where to Go
- Rome
- Florence
- Venice
- Naples
- Bologna
- Sicily
- Milan
Why March?
You can spend your days exploring museums, historic streets and restaurants without dealing with the same level of summer heat.
The downside is that coastal destinations may not yet have their full summer atmosphere.
If swimming and beach weather are your priority, choose a warmer destination.
10. Greece
Best for: Ancient history, food and quieter sightseeing
When most people imagine Greece, they picture blue skies, hot afternoons and packed summer islands.
March looks different.
This is a better month for travelers interested in history and local life than for people planning a traditional beach holiday.
i) Athens
Athens is the obvious starting point.
Visit the Acropolis, explore Plaka, spend time in museums and try traditional Greek dishes.
ii) Greek Islands
Some islands operate on a slower schedule in March.
Santorini can still be beautiful, but don’t expect every seasonal restaurant, beach club, or tour to be operating like it would in July.
Crete and Rhodes can be worth considering for travelers who want a quieter island experience.
11. South Africa
Best for: Safari, road trips, scenery and food
South Africa is one of the most diverse travel destinations on this list.
You can combine a city vacation, wine tasting, mountain scenery, beaches and safari in one trip.
i) Cape Town
Spend several days exploring Cape Town, Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula and nearby coastal areas.
ii) Kruger National Park
If wildlife is your priority, add a safari.
Kruger offers opportunities to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo and rhinos, although wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
iii) Garden Route
For road-trip lovers, the Garden Route provides beaches, forests, viewpoints and small coastal towns.
A South African itinerary can therefore be built around your interests rather than following one fixed route.
12. Vietnam
Best for: Food, culture, history and value
Vietnam is an excellent option if you want to travel well without spending as much as you might at a luxury beach resort.
March can offer favorable conditions in several parts of the country, but Vietnam’s weather varies significantly between north, central, and southern regions.
i) Hanoi
Explore the Old Quarter, eat local food and visit cultural landmarks.
ii) Hoi An
Hoi An is ideal for a slower few days. Walk through the old town, take a bicycle ride into the countryside or combine the trip with nearby Da Nang.
iii) Ho Chi Minh City
For a more energetic experience, head south.
The city has a strong food scene, museums, markets and historic attractions.
Other Places to Consider
- Ha Long Bay
- Ninh Binh
- Da Nang
- Hue
- Phu Quoc
March tip: Check weather region by region before planning your route.
13. Australia
Best for: Road trips, wildlife, beaches and outdoor adventures
March is early autumn in Australia.
Because the country is so large, conditions differ substantially from one region to another.
i) Sydney
Sydney is a good starting point for first-time visitors.
Combine the Opera House and Harbour Bridge with beaches, coastal walks, and neighborhoods such as The Rocks.
ii) Melbourne
Melbourne is better for travelers interested in food, coffee, arts and nearby road trips.
iii) Great Barrier Reef
If marine life is your priority, consider Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef.
iv) Tasmania
For nature lovers, Tasmania offers hiking, rugged coastlines and wildlife.
Important: Don’t attempt to see all of Australia in one short trip. Choose a region and explore it properly.
14. Mexico
Best for: Beaches, food, culture and warm weather
Mexico gives you an unusual amount of variety.
You can spend your vacation at a Caribbean resort, explore ancient ruins, eat your way through Mexico City or experience the culture of Oaxaca.
i) Beach Destinations
- Cancún
- Tulum
- Playa del Carmen
- Puerto Vallarta
ii) Cultural Destinations
- Mexico City
- Oaxaca
- Mérida
- San Miguel de Allende
March is generally attractive for travelers looking for warm conditions, but some resort areas can become especially busy around spring-break periods.
If you want a quieter trip, look beyond the most famous resort zones.
15. Switzerland
Best for: Mountains, skiing, scenic trains and winter landscapes
Switzerland is a good March destination for travelers who don’t mind cooler weather.
Higher elevations can still have plenty of snow, while lower areas begin transitioning toward spring.
Best Places to Visit
- Zermatt
- Interlaken
- Lucerne
- Grindelwald
- Zurich
- St. Moritz
Things to Do
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Scenic train journeys
- Mountain excursions
- Hiking where conditions permit
- Exploring alpine villages
- Visiting lakeside towns
March is particularly appealing if you want the possibility of combining winter activities with the first signs of spring.
Best Warm Places to Visit in March
March is a fantastic time to escape winter’s chill, but not all warm destinations are created equal this time of year some are hitting their absolute peak season, while others are just entering their hot and humid stretch. If you’re trying to escape cold weather, your best bet is to focus on tropical or subtropical destinations that are firmly in their dry season during March. Here’s a closer look at six top picks.
1. Thailand
March sits toward the tail end of Thailand’s cool, dry season, meaning you’ll still get plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures (often in the high 80s°F/low 30s°C) without the heaviest humidity of the following months. It’s ideal for beaches, islands, and water activities think snorkeling around Koh Phi Phi, island-hopping near Krabi, or simply relaxing on the white sand of Koh Samui. Just note that March is high season, so book accommodations and flights early.
2. Maldives
The Maldives is best for luxury resorts, snorkeling, and diving, and March falls squarely within its dry season, with calm seas and excellent underwater visibility. This is prime time to spot manta rays and reef sharks, and many resorts offer their best weather-related value just before the shoulder season kicks in. It’s a splurge-worthy destination, but the payoff is turquoise water and near-guaranteed sunshine.
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a good balance of warm weather, beaches, and wildlife, and March is one of the driest months of the year on the Pacific coast, making it ideal for beach time in spots like Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo. It’s also a great month for wildlife-watching, since drier trails make it easier to spot sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds in the national parks. The Caribbean side tends to be wetter, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
4. Mexico
Mexico offers both resort vacations and cultural experiences, and March gives travelers the best of both worlds. Beach destinations like Cancún, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta enjoy warm, dry, sunny weather, while inland cities like Oaxaca and Mexico City offer pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring markets, ruins, and colonial architecture without summer’s heat or crowds.
5. Vietnam
Vietnam is a strong option for warm-weather travel combined with food and culture, particularly in the south, where March brings dry, hot weather ideal for exploring Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, or the beaches of Phu Quoc. Central Vietnam, including Hoi An and Da Nang, also enjoys pleasant, drier conditions this time of year, while the north can still be cooler and hazier.
6. Mauritius
Mauritius is worth considering if you want another Indian Ocean beach destination, though it’s worth noting that March falls near the end of the island’s cyclone season, so occasional storms are still possible. That said, temperatures remain warm and inviting, and it’s a quieter, less crowded alternative to more heavily touristed beach spots, with excellent lagoon snorkeling and hiking in destinations like Black River Gorges.
Best Beach Destinations in March
| Destination | Best For | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Maldives | Luxury | Warm water and resort beaches |
| Thailand | Island hopping | Hot tropical conditions |
| Costa Rica | Nature + beaches | Dry-season conditions in many areas |
| Mexico | Resorts | Warm Caribbean and Pacific options |
| Mauritius | Relaxation | Tropical beach vacation |
| Vietnam | Value | Beaches plus cultural experiences |
For a purely relaxing beach holiday, the Maldives is difficult to beat.
For travelers who want beaches plus nightlife, food and sightseeing, Thailand or Mexico may offer more variety.
Best Places to Visit in March for Couples
March can be a particularly good month for couples because you can choose between romantic cities, tropical resorts, and adventure destinations all without fighting peak summer crowds or prices. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a honeymoon, or just craving quality time together, here’s a closer look at five destinations that shine this time of year.
1. Maldives: Best for Relaxation
For couples who want to do nothing but unwind together, the Maldives is hard to beat. Stay in an overwater villa, where you can step straight from your private deck into turquoise water, snorkel together over vibrant coral reefs just steps from your room, and spend your evenings watching the sunset with a drink in hand. March falls within the dry season, so you can count on calm seas and clear skies ideal for candlelit dinners on the beach or a private sunset cruise. It’s a splurge, but for pure, uninterrupted romance, few places compare.
2. Portugal: Best for a European Escape
Portugal in March offers mild, springlike weather that’s perfect for wandering hand-in-hand through cobblestone streets without the summer heat or tourist crush. Explore Lisbon’s hilly neighborhoods, ride the historic trams, and enjoy a leisurely dinner of fresh seafood and local wine. Take a day trip to Sintra, where fairy-tale palaces and misty hillsides make for a genuinely magical outing. Then head south to drive along the Algarve, stopping at dramatic cliffside viewpoints and quiet beach towns along the way. It’s an ideal mix of culture, scenery, and slower-paced romance.
3. Japan: Best for Culture
March timing in Japan can be especially rewarding, as it often coincides with the very start of cherry blossom season in southern regions, adding a soft, romantic backdrop to your trip. Combine Tokyo and Kyoto with seasonal scenery and excellent food think bustling markets and neon-lit dinners in Tokyo, followed by serene temples, bamboo groves, and traditional tea houses in Kyoto. The contrast between ultramodern and deeply traditional makes for a trip full of shared discovery, and the seasonal food (from hot pot to fresh sakura-themed sweets) adds another layer of enjoyment.
4. Italy: Best for Romance and Food
Italy has long been a classic choice for couples, and March offers pleasant temperatures with far thinner crowds than the summer months. Rome, Florence, and Venice provide plenty of options for couples, whether that’s tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, wandering Florence’s Renaissance streets hand-in-hand, or taking a quiet gondola ride through Venice’s canals before the tourist season ramps up. Add in long, unhurried meals of fresh pasta, local wine, and gelato, and it’s easy to see why Italy remains a top pick for romantic travel.
5. Costa Rica: Best for Adventure
Not every couple wants a slow, relaxed trip some prefer to bond over shared adventure. Choose Costa Rica if you would rather hike, surf, and explore rainforests than spend the whole trip at a resort. March falls in the dry season, making it a great time for zip-lining through cloud forests, learning to surf together on the Pacific coast, or spotting sloths and toucans on a guided rainforest hike. It’s a destination that rewards couples who want their romance mixed with a bit of adrenaline and fresh air.
Best Places to Visit in March for Families
Traveling with children changes the priorities. You need reliable transportation, manageable sightseeing days, suitable accommodation, and activities that appeal to different ages a destination that dazzles solo travelers or couples doesn’t always work when you’re juggling nap schedules, picky eaters, or restless teenagers. With that in mind, here are five destinations that hold up well for family trips in March.
1. Japan
Japan’s efficient rail system, food options, and combination of modern attractions and traditional culture make it a fascinating family destination. The shinkansen (bullet train) network makes covering long distances fast and stress-free, cutting down on the “are we there yet” factor that comes with long car rides. Kids tend to love the novelty of vending machine snacks, themed cafes, and attractions like Tokyo’s teamLab digital art museums or Osaka’s aquarium and theme parks, while parents can appreciate the safety, cleanliness, and punctuality that make logistics far easier. March’s mild spring weather and the possibility of catching early cherry blossoms in some regions add a scenic bonus.
2. Portugal
Portugal is an increasingly popular family pick, and Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve offer a mix of history, beaches, and family attractions that suit a range of ages. Lisbon’s hilly streets and vintage trams turn sightseeing into an adventure in themselves, while Porto offers a slower pace, riverside walks, and kid-friendly boat trips along the Douro. The Algarve region rounds things out with calmer beaches, tide pools to explore, and resort towns set up for family stays. March’s mild temperatures make outdoor time comfortable without the intense summer heat or crowds.
3. Spain
Spain is well suited to families thanks to its blend of culture and convenience. Large cities such as Barcelona and Madrid offer museums, parks, and plenty of family-friendly activities, from Barcelona’s whimsical Park Güell and beachfront promenade to Madrid’s expansive Retiro Park and interactive science museums. Both cities are easy to navigate with kids in tow, with reliable public transportation and no shortage of casual, family-friendly restaurants. March’s spring weather is typically mild and comfortable for a full day of walking and sightseeing.
4. Thailand
For families who want a more relaxed pace, beaches and resorts make Thailand appealing for families who want a more relaxed vacation rather than a packed sightseeing itinerary. Many resorts, particularly around Phuket and Krabi, cater specifically to families with kids’ clubs, shallow swimming areas, and easy access to gentle water activities. March still falls within the dry season, so you can count on sunny days by the pool or on the sand, with less pressure to stick to a rigid schedule than in a city-heavy destination.
5. Costa Rica
Costa Rica tends to work best for families with slightly older kids, making it a great option for older children who enjoy animals and outdoor activities like ziplining, wildlife spotting, and rainforest hikes. Sloths, monkeys, toucans, and sea turtles are all real possibilities on a guided tour, giving the trip an educational element that pairs naturally with adventure. March’s dry season conditions make hiking trails more manageable and outdoor excursions more predictable, though families with very young children may find the heat and activity level better suited to older kids and teens.
Best Affordable Places to Visit in March
The cheapest destination depends partly on where you are flying from. A destination with inexpensive hotels can still become expensive if flights are costly.
That said, Vietnam and Morocco can offer excellent value.
1. Vietnam
Street food, local transportation, and a wide range of accommodation make it possible to travel on different budgets.
2. Morocco
You can combine affordable local meals and riads with memorable experiences such as desert excursions.
3. Thailand
Thailand has everything from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury resorts, making it easier to adjust your budget.
4. Portugal
March can be more affordable than Portugal’s summer high season, although popular areas can still have strong demand.
5. Mexico
Look beyond the most expensive resort zones if keeping costs down is important.
Best Places for Nature and Adventure in March
For travelers who don’t want to spend their vacation sitting in a hotel, these destinations stand out.
1. Costa Rica
Rainforests, volcanoes, wildlife, and beaches.
2. New Zealand
Mountains, lakes, hiking and road trips.
3. South Africa
Safari, mountains, coastlines and scenic drives.
4. Switzerland
Alpine scenery, skiing and mountain villages.
5. Australia
Reefs, national parks and wildlife.
6. Morocco
Deserts, mountains and coastal landscapes.
Best March Festivals and Events
March isn’t just about weather. Several destinations become especially interesting because of annual celebrations that transform ordinary sightseeing into something far more memorable if the timing lines up, these events alone can be worth planning a trip around.
1. Las Fallas: Valencia
Held from March 15 to 19, Las Fallas is one of Spain’s most famous festivals, rooted in centuries-old traditions honoring Saint Joseph. Expect enormous sculptures, parades, fireworks, and busy streets, as neighborhoods across the city spend months building elaborate, satirical papier-mâché and wood figures called “fallas,” some standing several stories tall. The festival builds to a dramatic close on the final night, when nearly all of the sculptures are set ablaze in a ceremony known as “La Cremà .” Daily fireworks displays, street food, and round-the-clock celebrations make it an intense, immersive experience. If this is the reason for your trip, reserve accommodation early, as hotels fill up and prices rise well in advance.
2. Holi: India
Holi, often called the “festival of colors,” is one of India’s most joyful and visually striking celebrations. Holi is celebrated with colors, music, food, and community events, as people take to the streets to throw brightly colored powder and water at friends, family, and even strangers, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations vary by region, with some cities hosting massive public gatherings while others favor smaller, community-based festivities. The date changes every year, since it follows the lunar calendar, so check the official calendar before planning a trip specifically around Holi.
3. Cherry Blossom Season: Japan
Few natural events draw as many travelers as Japan’s cherry blossom season, when parks and streets fill with delicate pink and white blooms. Cherry blossom timing varies by city and year, influenced by regional climate and that year’s weather patterns, with southern cities typically blooming earlier than northern ones. This is one reason you should avoid booking an entire Japan itinerary based on a single expected flowering date instead, consider building flexibility into your trip or tracking seasonal forecasts closer to your travel dates, so you have a better chance of catching the blooms at their peak in at least one region.
4. St. Patrick’s Day: Ireland
March 17 brings celebrations across Ireland, with Dublin attracting large numbers of visitors for parades, live music, and lively pub gatherings that stretch throughout the city. Beyond the capital, smaller towns across the country host their own parades and community events, often with a more local, low-key atmosphere. Expect green-themed decorations, traditional Irish music sessions, and a festive mood throughout the country, making it a fitting destination for travelers who want to experience Irish culture and hospitality at its most exuberant.
Where Has the Best Weather in March?
There isn’t a single answer.
It depends on what you consider “good weather.”
1. Want Hot Weather?
Choose:
- Thailand
- Maldives
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
2. Want Mild Spring Weather?
Choose:
- Portugal
- Spain
- Italy
- Greece
3. Want Snow and Mountains?
Choose:
- Switzerland
- Japan
- New Zealand’s alpine regions
4. Want Autumn?
Choose:
- New Zealand
- Australia
- Parts of South Africa
March is unusual because you can experience completely different seasons depending on where you travel.
Is March a Good Month to Travel?
Yes, March is an excellent month for international travel if you choose your destination carefully.
The main advantage is variety.
Travelers looking for sunshine can head toward tropical destinations. Those interested in European sightseeing can take advantage of spring-like conditions before the hottest months. Japan offers the possibility of cherry blossoms, while New Zealand and Australia begin their autumn season.
International travel demand is also continuing to grow. According to UN Tourism, international tourist arrivals reached about 300 million in the first quarter of 2025, around 5% higher than the same period in 2024.
That doesn’t mean every March destination will be crowded, but it does reinforce the value of planning popular trips in advance.
How to Choose the Right March Destination
Instead of choosing a country simply because it appears on a “best destinations” list, start with your main goal.
If You Want a Beach Vacation
Choose: Maldives or Thailand
If You Want Cherry Blossoms
Choose: Japan
If You Want Wildlife
Choose: Costa Rica or South Africa
If You Want History and Culture
Choose: Japan, Italy or Morocco
If You Want a Romantic Trip
Choose: Portugal, Italy or Maldives
If You Want Adventure
Choose: Costa Rica or New Zealand
If You Want Affordable Travel
Choose: Vietnam or Morocco
If You Want Festivals
Choose: Spain or India
If You Want Mountains
Choose: Switzerland
This simple approach makes it much easier to narrow down the enormous number of destinations available in March.
March Travel Tips You Should Know
1. Check Weather by Region
Don’t rely only on a country’s average temperature.
Vietnam, Australia, Japan and the United States, for example, are large enough to have significant regional differences.
2. Book Around Major Events
Cherry blossom season, Las Fallas, Holi and St. Patrick’s Day can increase accommodation demand.
3. Don’t Assume March Means Cheap
March can be a shoulder season in some places but a peak period in others.
Always compare actual prices for your dates.
4. Pack Layers
For Europe, Japan, and other spring destinations, mornings and evenings can be much cooler than afternoons.
5. Check Visa Requirements
Visa rules depend on your nationality and destination. Always use official government or embassy information before booking.
6. Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can help protect you from certain unexpected expenses caused by cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, or other covered problems.
7. Leave Room in Your Itinerary
Trying to see five cities in seven days may look efficient on paper, but transportation can eat up much of your vacation.
Two or three well-chosen bases are often better than constantly changing hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in March?
The best places to visit in March include Japan, Thailand, Costa Rica, Portugal, Morocco, Maldives, Spain, New Zealand, South Africa, Vietnam, Italy and Mexico. Your best choice depends on weather, budget and the type of vacation you want.
Where is hot in March?
Thailand, the Maldives, Mexico and Costa Rica are among the better choices for travelers looking for warm weather and outdoor activities.
What is the best country to visit in March?
There is no single best country for everyone. Japan is excellent for culture and spring scenery, Thailand for beaches, Costa Rica for nature, and Portugal for a mild European getaway.
Where is the best place to visit in March for couples?
The Maldives is ideal for a relaxing romantic trip, while Portugal, Italy and Japan are better choices for couples who want sightseeing, food and culture.
Where should families travel in March?
Japan, Portugal, Spain, Thailand and Costa Rica are strong family options. Your choice should depend on the children’s ages and how much activity they can comfortably handle.
Where can I see cherry blossoms in March?
Japan is the most famous option. However, blossom timing varies considerably by location and year. Southern areas generally bloom earlier than colder northern regions.
What are the cheapest places to visit in March?
Vietnam and Morocco can provide good value for accommodation, food, and local experiences. Thailand can also work well for different budgets.
Is Europe worth visiting in March?
Yes. Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece can be excellent for sightseeing in March. However, don’t expect consistent summer beach weather.
Is March a good time to visit the Maldives?
Yes. March is generally a popular period for a warm tropical vacation in the Maldives, particularly for travelers interested in beaches, snorkeling, and diving.
Final Verdict: Where Should You Go in March?
March gives travelers an unusual amount of choice.
- If you’re dreaming about cherry blossoms and Japanese culture, choose Japan.
- If you want sun, beaches and tropical islands, Thailand or the Maldives should be on your shortlist.
- For wildlife and adventure, Costa Rica is an excellent choice.
- For European culture without the peak summer heat, consider Portugal, Spain or Italy.
- If you’re interested in desert landscapes and traditional markets, Morocco is a great option.
And if you’re looking for mountains and winter scenery, Switzerland can still deliver a snowy getaway in March.
The most important thing is not to choose a destination simply because it is labeled one of the “best places to visit in March.” Look at regional weather, events, prices, crowds, and the activities you actually want to do.
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Arman Ashraf is a content writer focused on travel and tourism. He creates practical, well-researched travel guides, destination articles, and travel tips designed to help readers plan trips with greater confidence. His work combines clear, engaging writing with SEO best practices, covering destinations, things to do, travel planning, and useful advice for travelers. Arman is committed to producing helpful content that makes discovering and planning travel easier.