Best Places to Travel in March: Your Ultimate Travel Guide:March is the perfect time to travel for many reasons: the weather is changing, the crowds are thinner than in peak summer months, and it’s the perfect escape before the busy travel season begins. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, embrace the cold for some winter sports, or explore new cultures, there’s a destination for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to travel in March—from tropical beach escapes to snowy adventures and cultural celebrations.
Why March is a Great Time to Travel
March falls between the winter and spring seasons, making it an ideal time to explore a variety of destinations. For those who want to avoid the tourist rush of summer, March offers the perfect window. You’ll find better deals on flights, accommodations, and activities, plus you can enjoy the mild weather in many destinations.
- Weather: In many parts of the world, March offers a mix of mild temperatures, cooler nights, and pleasant days. Some destinations, especially in the Southern Hemisphere, are at the tail end of summer, while places in the Northern Hemisphere begin to thaw out from winter.
- Off-Season Prices: Since March is not the peak travel season for many destinations, you can score great deals on everything from flights to hotel rooms.
- Festivals & Events: March is also a month of many cultural celebrations. Whether it’s St Patrick’s Day, Mardi Gras, or the beginning of spring, you can be sure that there are lively events to enhance your travel experience.
March’s Top 10 Travel Destinations
From urban centres teeming with events and culture to tropical paradises, these are some of the top destinations to visit in March:
- Japan’s Kyoto
You are in for a treat if you are fortunate enough to visit Japan in March. March marks the beginning of cherry blossom season in Kyoto, one of the most iconic times of the year in Japan. In the city’s parks, temples, and streets, the delicate pink sakura blossoms are in full bloom.
Why Kyoto?
- Cherry Blossoms: Kyoto is one of the best places to witness the magical cherry blossoms in full bloom. Iconic spots like Maruyama Park, the Philosopher’s Path, and Kiyomizu Temple provide breathtaking views of the flowers.
- Cultural Heritage: Beautiful temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses can be found in Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. Because of its well-preserved architecture, the Gion District takes you back in time.
- Festivals: In March, the Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day) starts, which is a customary celebration that includes cultural activities and doll exhibits.
- Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis that blends modern urban life with rich history and culture. March is an excellent time to visit as the weather is pleasant, with warm days and cool nights, and it is ideal for exploring the city’s many landmarks.
Why Mexico City?
- Mild Weather: With temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 75°F (24°C), the weather is comfortable for sightseeing without the oppressive heat of summer.
- Cultural Sites: From the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan to the Frida Kahlo Museum and Chapultepec Park, there is no shortage of historical and cultural attractions.
- Festivals: March is the month of El Día de la Santa Cruz (Day of the Holy Cross), and the city comes alive with celebrations, parades, and festivals.
- Cape Town, South Africa
March is one of the best months to visit Cape Town, as it falls at the tail end of summer in the Southern Hemisphere. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the city offers a combination of stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Why Cape Town?
- Stunning Landscapes: With Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town is home to some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. Hike up Table Mountain, visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, or take a drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive.
- Beaches: March is ideal for enjoying Cape Town’s pristine beaches, including Clifton Beach and Camps Bay.
- Winelands: Take a day trip to the nearby Stellenbosch or Paternoster for wine tastings and stunning vineyard views.
- Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a great European destination to visit in March, especially for those who prefer fewer crowds and mild weather. The city’s Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination, but March offers a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and quiet streets.
Why Barcelona?
- Architecture: Barcelona is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with architectural gems like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló designed by Antoni Gaudí.
- Art and Culture: Wander through the city’s vibrant streets in El Born or the Gothic Quarter, or visit the Picasso Museum and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya.
- Beaches: March offers a tranquil seaside getaway because Barcelona’s beaches are less crowded.
- Queenstown, New Zealand
For adventure lovers, Queenstown is the perfect destination in March. This charming town on the South Island is known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. March is the beginning of autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, offering vibrant foliage and great weather for outdoor exploration.
Why Queenstown?
- Adventure Sports: Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world, offering everything from bungee jumping and skydiving to jet boating and hiking.
- Autumn Foliage: March is a great time to visit if you love stunning fall colors. The surrounding vineyards and forests turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
- Wine Tasting: Take a trip to nearby Central Otago for world-class wine tastings in one of New Zealand’s best wine regions.
- Rome, Italy
Rome is a year-round destination, but March provides a wonderful combination of mild weather and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The city is brimming with ancient history, artistic masterpieces, and delicious cuisine.
Why Rome?
- Historical Sites: Explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. March’s cooler temperatures make it ideal for walking through the ancient city.
- Cultural Events: Enjoy the RomaEuropa Festival with performances, theater, and dance, or explore the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Food: Indulge in Italian cuisine, from pizza and pasta to gelato, at some of the city’s finest trattorias and markets.
- Hawaii, USA
Hawaii is a great place to visit in March because of the pleasant tropical weather and stunning scenery that make it ideal for outdoor activities. Whether you’re seeking beaches, volcanoes, or cultural experiences, Hawaii offers it all.
Why Hawaii?
- Beaches and Surfing: The beaches in Maui and Oahu are perfect for both relaxation and water sports, especially surfing, as March marks the end of the surf season on the North Shore.
- Volcanos: Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to see active volcanoes and explore lava tubes.
- Culture: Enjoy Hawaiian festivals, like the Merrie Monarch Festival, which celebrates hula and Polynesian culture.
- Bali, Indonesia
March is an excellent time to visit Bali, as the island’s rainy season is winding down, and the crowds are still low. The lush landscapes, tranquil beaches, and spiritual atmosphere make Bali a top destination year-round.
Why Bali?
- Beaches and Water Sports: Bali is famous for its beaches, including Kuta Beach, Seminyak, and Ubud, where you can enjoy surfing, snorkeling, or simply lounging by the sea.
- Cultural Attractions: Bali offers rich cultural experiences, such as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, the Uluwatu Temple, and the Tanah Lot.
- Wellness Retreats: Bali is home to numerous wellness retreats offering yoga, meditation, and spa treatments for those looking to unwind.
- New Orleans, USA
March is an exciting time to visit New Orleans, especially for fans of lively celebrations and unique cultural experiences. The weather is mild, and the city is bursting with energy thanks to Mardi Gras festivities.
Why New Orleans?
- Mardi Gras: If you visit New Orleans in early March, you can experience the world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations, complete with parades, costumes, and incredible street parties.
- Jazz and Music: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and you’ll find live music pouring from every bar and club.
- Cuisine: Indulge in some of the best southern cuisine, including gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish, and beignets.You can also visit here for more info.
- Dubai, UAE
For a luxury escape, Dubai is a great choice in March, as the weather is ideal for exploring this modern city. Dubai provides a memorable experience and is well-known for its world-class shopping, tall skyscrapers, and desert adventures.
Why Dubai?
- Luxury Shopping and Dining: Explore Dubai Mall and shop in some of the world’s most luxurious retail outlets, or dine at world-renowned restaurants.
- Desert Safaris: Take a thrilling desert safari in the golden dunes just outside the city, or enjoy a