March is a month of transformation, marking the transition from winter to spring in the Northern Hemisphere and offering a final brush of summer warmth in the South. This in-between season is ideal for travelers seeking unique experiences without the typical rush of crowds and peak prices.
Across the globe, March brings cherry blossoms to life in Japan, cultural festivalsto vibrant cities, and pristine hiking conditions to breathtaking landscapes. Here are 40 remarkable places to consider for your next March adventure, each destination promising a memorable experience and a new perspective. Nestled in the shadow of Mont Blanc, Chamonix transforms into a skier’s paradise each March. As winter winds down, the village remains snow-covered, yet warmer days bring comfort for al fresco dining.
The nearby resorts of Argentière and Vallorcine add to the variety, each offering breathtaking Alpine scenery. In town, cozy chalets and cafes provide inviting spots to unwind after a day on the slopes.
March is ideal for exploring Barcelona, with mild temperatures that bring life to its iconic sites like Park Güell and the Gothic Quarter. Gaudí’s masterpieces, including Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Família, are less crowded, allowing visitors a relaxed experience. Culinary enthusiasts can savor authentic Catalan cuisine in the Gràcia neighborhood, known for its vibrant local dining scene.
Tokyo offers an unforgettable hanami (cherry blossom viewing) experience each March. The blossoms in the Imperial Palace gardens and along the Sumida River create pink-hued landscapes across the city. Locals gather for festive outdoor gatherings, and Tokyo’s mix of historic temples and modern architecture adds depth to the seasonal beauty.
Lisbon in March offers mild weather and a unique charm. The Alfama district’s narrow streets wind up to panoramic views over the city, and a walk along Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as Pink Street, brings a taste of Lisbon’s nightlife. Famous landmarks, including the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda and the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, offer a mix of history and style, perfect for exploring before the summer crowds.
March is nesting season in the Galapagos, where visitors can spot green sea turtles, albatrosses, and the iconic marine iguanas along the shorelines. Though it’s a wet month, showers are brief, leaving plenty of sunny stretches for island exploration. Cruises and guided tours provide close-up views of these rare creatures in their natural habitat, making this a paradise for those looking to travel soloand witness nature’s marvels up close. March brings a warm, vibrant atmosphere to Cape Town as the summer season transitions into fall. Table Mountain is a prime spot for hiking, with trails suitable for all fitness levels. Cape Town’s Constantia Valley wine region also hosts harvest festivals, allowing visitors to taste world-class wines against scenic vineyard landscapes.
Belize’s warm weather and clear waters make March an ideal time for snorkeling and diving. At Hol Chan Marine Reserve, vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish create a diver’s paradise. Inland, lush jungles reveal diverse wildlife, including scarlet macaws and howler monkeys, for an exciting blend of adventure and nature. Iguazu Falls’ powerful cascades are breathtaking year-round, but March brings fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures. The Devil’s Throat viewpoint offers a close look at the falls, where mist and rainbows create a surreal sight. The surrounding rainforest also provides scenic trails for nature enthusiasts, rich with tropical flora and fauna. The equinox in March marks a magical time at Chichen Itza, where shadows form a serpent-like illusion on the Temple of Kukulcan. Beyond the ruins, the region’s cenotes and beachesoffer tranquil escapes, and coastal areas like Tulum and Valladolid provide additional Mayan sites and crystal-clear waters. March is the perfect time to explore the Cinque Terre, where the cooler weather makes hiking along coastal trails more comfortable. Each of the five cliffside towns offers scenic beauty, colorful homes, and access to traditional Italian trattorias. Local shops open after winter, adding an authentic experience to this UNESCO-listed destination.
Washington, D.C., mirrors Japan’s cherry blossom beauty, with blooming trees surrounding the Tidal Basin. The city’s monuments and museums are also accessible without the summer crowds, making it easy to combine cultural exploration with natural beauty. The cherry blossoms typically reach their peak toward the end of March, making it a captivating time to visit.
March brings Mendoza’s Vendimia wine harvest festival, a cultural event that celebrates Argentina’s world-renowned wines. The Andes provide a dramatic backdrop for vineyard tours and tastings, especially for Malbec, Mendoza’s signature varietal. Visitors can immerse themselves in Argentine tradition with live music, folkloric dance, and traditional asado (barbecue), making it one of the best travel destinationsfor wine lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. March brings ideal weather to Ha Long Bay, with mild temperatures and clear skies perfect for sightseeing. Cruises navigate the bay’s iconic limestone formations, providing stunning views of secluded islands and caves. Hanoi’s historic sites are also nearby, offering a deeper look into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
Moab is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with Arches and Canyonlands National Parks showcasing unique red rock formations. March’s cooler weather allows for comfortable hiking, rock climbing, and off-road excursions. The area’s scenic beauty, coupled with endless outdoor activities, makes it a top spot for nature lovers.
Luang Prabang’s dry season brings warm weather, ideal for exploring its Buddhist temples, including Wat Xieng Thong. The nearby Kuang Si Falls offers a picturesque retreat with turquoise waters perfect for a refreshing dip. River cruises and cave tours add depth to the experience, connecting visitors to the spiritual and natural wonders of Laos.
March is an idyllic time to explore the Windward Islands, with St. Lucia, Grenada, and Dominica offering diverse landscapes. St. Lucia’s Pitons, Grenada’s spice plantations, and Dominica’s lush rainforests each offer unique island experiences. Short inter-island flights make it easy to explore multiple islands during one visit.
March in Sicily means mild temperatures and blooming almond trees, especially around Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples. The city celebrates with Festa del Mandorlo in Fiore, a festival featuring traditional dances and delicacies. From coastal towns to baroque cities, Sicily’s early spring atmosphere brings a serene yet vibrant experience.
Mirissa on Sri Lanka’s southern coast offers unparalleled whale-watching opportunities in March, especially for the majestic blue whale. Nearby, Yala National Park boasts a high concentration of leopards, elephants, and other wildlife. Combining marine and land safaris makes Sri Lanka a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are legendary, featuring a bright green-dyed river, parades, and Irish-themed festivities. March offers a lively atmosphere, blending cultural celebrations with the city’s renowned food and music scenes. Indoor attractions like the Art Institute and comedy clubs provide entertainment despite chilly weather.
March is an excellent time to explore Paphos, where hiking trails in the Akamas Peninsula reveal breathtaking coastal views and blooming wildflowers. The city is rich in ancient Greek temples and ruins, and the season’s mild weather allows for extended outdoor exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
In March, Bergen offers a mix of winter and early spring, with clear nights perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights over the dramatic fjords. Sognefjord, Norway’s longest fjord, is easily accessible from Bergen by scenic day cruises, while the historic Bryggen wharf and colorful wooden housesprovide charm and character to this coastal city. As winter draws to a close, visitors can experience fewer tourists and lower hotel rates, making this an ideal time for a picturesque retreat. With warm weather and calm seas, March is the perfect month to relax on the beachesof Punta Mita. This coastal haven on the Riviera Nayarit is known for luxurious resorts, white sand beaches, and an array of aquatic activities. March also marks the tail end of humpback whale migration season, allowing visitors a last chance to catch these magnificent creatures as they pass through the region. Whitehorse in March offers a stunning view of the Northern Lights while the winter chill remains. With dog sledding, snowshoeing, and natural hot springs, visitors can experience the wilderness of the Yukon in comfort. A visit to the Kluane National Park adds to the adventure, while Whitehorse itself provides a window into Canadian heritage through museums dedicated to the region’s indigenous and Gold Rush history.
March in Sydney combines lingering summer warmth with the beginning of the Sydney Biennale and other arts festivals. Famous beaches, including Bondi and Manly, still offer perfect temperatures for swimming, and the outdoor activities around the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House are less crowded. March is also ideal for outdoor cinema events and the vibrant food scene, with fresh seafood and harbor views adding to the appeal. March brings Auckland’s cultural scene to life with the Auckland Arts Festival and the beginning of the wine harvest season in nearby vineyards. Visitors can enjoy live performances and exhibitions, and then escape to Waiheke Island for vineyard tours. The mild weather also makes it a fantastic time for outdoor excursions, from the beaches to hiking trails around Mount Eden and Rangitoto Island.
Taipei in March strikes a perfect balance, with temperatures comfortable enough for hiking Elephant Mountain for panoramic city views or exploring Taroko Gorge’s marble cliffs. Taipei’s famous night markets are bustling, offering local delicacies and souvenirs. Early spring flowers bloom in Yangmingshan National Park, adding a touch of color to the city’s natural landscapes.
Valencia’s Las Fallas festival fills the city with vibrant sculptures, parades, and fireworks in March, celebrating the arrival of spring with daily displays of fire and art. You can explore the city’s beautiful old quarter, enjoy authentic paella, and witness the ceremonial burning of giant effigies on St. Joseph’s Day. The city’s mild Mediterranean weather allows for comfortable outdoor sightseeing, from the historic cathedral to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
March in Yosemite offers peaceful snowy landscapes with fewer tourists. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or simply take in the beauty of snow-capped granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. Yosemite’s quieter trails provide a serene experience, while Badger Pass offers skiing for all skill levels, creating a winter wonderland that’s both beautiful and accessible.
Maui in March is prime time for whale watching as humpback whales make their way through Hawaiian waters. Haleakalā National Park provides stunning views from the summit, while the lush trails around the Kīpahulu District lead to waterfalls and scenic coastlines. With warm temperatures and seasonal events, Maui is perfect for beach days, hikes, and cultural immersion.
March in Svalbard brings sunlight back to this Arctic region, making it a prime month for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice cave exploration. The remote landscape, dotted with polar bears and reindeer, offers a unique experience for those seeking an Arctic adventure. Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s main town, provides comfortable lodgings with easy access to guided wilderness excursions.
Bermuda’s beaches come to life in March with daily sunshine and mild temperatures. Visitors can enjoy the island’s rose-tinted sands and explore the lively capital of Hamilton with its pastel-colored architecture. Bermuda’s maritime history, showcased at the Royal Naval Dockyard, and natural beauty make this a prime location for a relaxing island escape.
Munich’s Starkbierfest, or “strong beer festival,” in March offers a more relaxed alternative to Oktoberfest. Visitors can sample high-alcohol Starkbier brews alongside traditional Bavarian dishes. The city’s historic sites, including Marienplatz and the Munich Residenz, add depth to the visit, while the surrounding Alps offer skiing and snowboarding for those seeking winter sports.
Known for its pristine beaches and clear blue waters, Cozumel offers excellent snorkeling and diving in March. The island’s coral reefs, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, teem with marine life, making it a must-visit for water sports enthusiasts. For those preferring land, a walk through San Miguel’s town square and the Cozumel Island Museum provides insight into local culture and history.
Málaga’s sunny Mediterranean climate in March is ideal for beachside relaxation and city exploration. The historic Alcazaba fortress and the Picasso Museum offer cultural highlights, while the nearby Costa del Sol’s beaches provide warm sand and clear waters. Málaga’s culinary scene is vibrant, with seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood paired with local wines.
March in Galway is marked by lively St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with parades, music, and traditional dance. The city’s pubs, many with live folk music, provide cozy spots to enjoy Irish culture. With fewer tourists, it’s an ideal time to explore Connemara’s wild landscapes and the famous Cliffs of Moher, a short drive from Galway.
March in Chicago brings the unique spectacle of the Chicago River dyed green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. The city’s lively parades and festivities are complemented by its thriving dining and music scenes. Chicago’s iconic architecture, art galleries, and indoor attractions provide ample entertainment as spring begins to arrive.
Big Bend’s desert landscape comes to life with blooming wildflowers in March, providing colorful vistas against rugged mountains. The park’s clear skies make it a renowned spot for stargazing, and its vast network of trails is ideal for hiking, from river canyons to desert plateaus. The Rio Grande’s scenic float trips add a touch of adventure to the park’s stunning wilderness.
Vancouver’s early spring brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, making March an ideal time for exploring its waterfront neighborhoods, such as Gastown and Granville Island. Stanley Park offers biking and walking trails with views of snow-capped mountains and the city skyline. Vancouver’s rich dining scene and proximity to ski resorts make it a dynamic destination.
March is an excellent month to explore Paphos’s ancient history, with ruins of Greek temples, amphitheaters, and tombs surrounded by blossoming wildflowers. The Akamas Peninsula offers scenic coastal trails with views of the Mediterranean, and the city’s beaches provide a serene setting for relaxation. Paphos also celebrates Greek Orthodox Easter, bringing traditional festivities to the area.
March is one of the driest months in The Gambia, with warm temperatures perfect for beach days along the Atlantic coast. The country’s riverine forests and mangroves provide ample birdwatching opportunities, while the vibrant capital of Banjul offers a lively market scene. The Gambia’s unique mix of African and colonial history makes it an engaging and culturally rich destination.
Warm-weather destinations in March include Cape Town, the Yucatan Peninsula, and the Caribbean’s Windward Islands, each offering sunny skies and comfortable temperatures.
Moab, Ha Long Bay, and the Galapagos Islands are top picks for outdoor adventures in March, with ideal weather for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Mendoza, Argentina, hosts the Vendimia wine festival, while Washington, D.C., and Tokyo celebrate cherry blossom season. The Fallas Festival in Valencia is another exciting cultural event in March.
March’s shoulder season means lower prices in destinations like Luang Prabang, Belize, and Lisbon, making these places great for budget-conscious travelers.
Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, and Mirissa each offer stunning natural backdrops in March, from towering waterfalls to scenic coastlines perfect for whale watching.
March is the perfect month to embrace the changing seasons, and these destinations offer travelers unique ways to see the world’s beauty and culture during this transitional period. With fewer crowds, captivating festivals, and mild weather, March is an ideal time to visit many top locations that reveal their true charm and authenticity.
Spring travelers will find cultural treasures, blossoming landscapes, and weather that invites exploration without the constraints of extreme temperatures. As March unfolds, it invites travelers to experience the world through a refreshing lens, filled with new colors, cultures, and sights.