Where to Travel in March
March is the month that really starts beckoning that travel itch. With it comes whispers of warm weather, flowers ready to bloom and a calendar of outdoor events ready to unfold across the globe. And for those travelers who haven’t had their fill of winter activities, there are plenty of destinations with ski slopes that have extended seasons primed for the taking.
It’s during March when travelers hope to stretch their legs and shake off the winter blues by exploring a new world. From the tropical shores of Brazil to the culinary landscape of Oaxaca, Mexico, and St. Patrick’s Day parades the world over, here’s where you should travel in March, based on a wide array of budgets and interests.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
There’s never a bad time to visit Mexico, but for many American and Canadian travelers, they are really ready for some sun and sand after making it through dreary February. Insane flight deals and short flight times to Cancun from most major U.S. airports (a roundtrip flight from Chicago may only set you back $200) make a trek to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula quite attractive.
Playa del Carmen is especially popular right now, with the opening of the brand-new luxury Palmaia - The House of AiA. And did we mention that average March temperatures hover around 84 degrees Fahrenheit?
Fernando de Noronha Island, Brazil
Recently relaxed visa regulations to Brazil has certainly made the entire country more accessible. As of June 2019, visa requirements were waived for Americans, Canadians, Australians and the Japanese.
While this opens up the entire country, travelers visiting in March should seek out Fernando de Noronha Island, one of the few places in Brazil that regulates its visitors for environmental reasons. Divers will relish the crystal-clear waters, the lack of development and unadulterated brushes with nature.
New York
New York is a year-round destination, but the start of spring is when the city starts to reawaken after its long winter nap. It's right before the heavy tourist season as well, so you can snag favorable hotel rates and beat the hordes of other visitors.
New York also loads up the March event calendar, so you can attend the Rendez-Vous with French Cinema film festival, the Jersey City Craft Brew Fest and the Macy's Flower Show, among others.
Bermuda
Beat the crowds (and the hefty price tags) when you make Bermuda your March getaway. It won't be warm enough to swim, but you can certainly soak up the rays with an average March temperature of 68 degrees.
Spring is a generally festive time for the island, too, especially on Good Friday, when Horseshoe Bay explodes with hundreds of colorful kites.
Tokyo
No doubt the highlight of Tokyo in March is sakura, or the cherry blossoms. But the rest of the month is packed with treasures as well.
There is the Fire Walking Festival at Mt. Takao, where monks chant and walk barefoot over a path of glowing embers, or you can visit the golden dragon at Asakusa's Sensoji Temple, which celebrates the founding of the temple. Temperatures are also an ideal 60 to 70 degrees this time of year.
Puerto Rico
Now is the time more than ever to show your love and support for Puerto Rico. The island has had a rough couple of years, making it especially hard on tourism. Still, it continues to show that it is one of the most resilient places on Earth, filled with warmth, beautiful scenery, and even more warm and beautiful people.
In 2020, there will be an increase in flights to San Juan from various U.S. hubs, meaning it's easier than ever for Americans to get to the island. Plus, several hotels are showing off renovations and new openings. Even if you've been to Puerto Rico before, it's worth traveling again for a whole new version of this incredible Caribbean island.
Canary Islands, Spain
While the rest of Europe is waiting to thaw out, the Canary Islands are balmy and beautiful come March. Plenty of sunshine, a coastal vibe, fantastic cuisine and volcanic wines make this archipelago off the coast of North Africa one of Europe's most intriguing.
Two of the best islands to visit in March are Gran Canaria or Tenerife, where the weather is most warm, especially on the southern sides of the islands. It may not be warm enough to swim (though, there are definitely hot days), but there is plenty of hiking, exploring the beautiful towns and villages, and soaking up that European way of life.
Washington, D.C.
The start of spring is one of the most magical times to visit Washington, D.C. If you've never had the opportunity to experience cherry blossom season, it is certainly worth adding to the bucket list. D.C.'s cherry trees are in full bloom from the end of March into early April, when the entire city explodes in hues of blush and pink.
The city is also home to 11 Smithsonian Institution museums, the National Zoo and an abundance of national monuments. And March is Women's History Month, with several events and exhibitions to celebrate.
Nepal
You don't have to chase Everest in order to make the most out of Nepal. In fact, Nepal is pushing its tourism highlights with a Visit Nepal 2020 campaign.
Be the first to get out on the more moderate trails in March as the snow melts and spring sets in. If you're looking to stay brand loyal, Kathmandu recently opened an Aloft as well as a Marriott.
Dublin
Don't let the Irish winter rain deter you — March is one of the best times to visit Ireland’s capital city of Dublin (and, truth be told, there's never really a “dry” season in Ireland). Without a doubt, one of the most festive times to visit Dublin is during the five-day St. Patrick's Festival, which culminates on March 17 each year.
The event attracts about 500,000 revelers, but if you're not into celebrating with hundreds of your closest friends, March is otherwise a relatively quiet month. You’ll be sure to snag great prices and shorter wait times for attractions.
Marrakech, Morocco
A packed calendar of events and delicious springtime weather makes Marrakech a wonderful place to visit in March. Average daily temperatures hover around 73 degrees, making it perfect for daytime adventures and cozy, crisp evenings huddled around a fire.
Explore the beautiful architecture, the colorful alleyways and markets, or score a seat at the Marrakech International Contemporary Dance, which has shows, workshops and classes in March. If you're feeling fancy, book a room at the newly opened Oberoi Marrakech.
Genoa, Italy
Everyone knows that visiting Italy is a good idea, which means it's hard to find a time of year when Italy is not crowded. March, however, happens to be one of those times. It's just close enough to winter to hit lower price points, but close enough to spring that the weather is becoming nice.
Consider Genoa, a city that is perfectly positioned along the Italian Riviera and has everything about Italy that you love — architecture, museums and delicious food. The Palazzo Ducale of Genoa, for instance, often has rotating exhibits, like the brand-new Michelangelo exhibit opening on March 26. It’s the first exhibition in the city dedicated specifically to the artist.
Sanibel Island, Florida
March is one of the absolute best times to visit Sanibel Island, not only because of the weather, but because of the sheer number of things to do.
The weather is warm enough to hit the beach. Plus, baseball fans can catch the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins who return each year for Spring Training.
The Maldives
You can snag great deals to this idyllic island nation in South Asia if you travel in March because you'll be going at the tail end of high season. As everyone is packing up to head home, you'll be able to swoop in on savings.
Monsoon season starts in May, so make sure to soak up the great weather beforehand. If you enjoy water activities like diving, snorkeling or surfing, March is the best time for visibility and waves.
Austin, Texas
Austin is arguably everyone's favorite city in Texas — and for good reason! There's so much in terms of dining, art, history and outdoor activities. Plus, it's a phenomenal city for audiophiles, with live music available in practically every bar.
March is one of the best times to head down south, especially if you're interested in going to some of the city’s annual events, like Rodeo Austin and South by Southwest Conference & Festivals.
Cambodia
Want to see centuries-old ruins, wander night markets and soak up thousands of years of history? From the culture in Phnom Penh to the history and architecture of Siem Reap, and even a few lovely beaches, Cambodia has it all — and for a fraction of the price compared to nearby destinations like Thailand.
The best time to go to Cambodia is March, when flights are at their lowest, according to Kayak. High season is June or July, so you'll also beat the crowds.
Chicago
The Windy City begins its spring thaw every year around March, and with rising temperatures, comes a slew of amazing reasons to visit Chicago in the early spring. St. Patrick's Day is iconic and a sight to be seen, when the city turns the Chicago River emerald green for two weeks each March. There are also two St. Patty's Day parades on March 17.
But even if you have no interest in celebrating the luck of the Irish, Chicago still provides plenty to do, from the Chicago Flower and Garden Show to the Good Food Festival.
Myanmar
Myanmar is one of those destinations that remains relatively under the radar. If you love archaeology, history, food, culture, temples and raw natural beauty, this is one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia. Plus, it's incredibly affordable once you get there.
March in Myanmar lands at the end of the cooler season, which means it's a great time to go before the weather gets too hot. Flights are also at their lowest this time of year, so you'll be able to score some great deals.
Manchester, Vermont
Sneak in the tail end of ski season with a visit to Manchester in March. Stratton Mountain, Bromley Mountain and Mount Snow all have late ski seasons, so you can squeeze in one last run of outdoor winter fun before the weather warms up and the summer tourists roll in.
This is also maple syrup season, when the local sugar makers begin production, so you can stock up on that liquid gold for the rest of the year.
Adelaide, Australia
As the Southern Hemisphere transitions into fall, March is a picture-perfect time to soak up the last of summer in South Australia, and Adelaide has plenty to see and do.
Weatherwise, this is Adelaide at its best, with mild, dry temperatures. Culture is at its peak, too, with the annual Adelaide Fringe festival, which runs through mid-March and is filled with live performances, music, dance and more. Plus, Adelaide allows visitors to experience some of Australia's wine country.
Las Vegas
Need a quick getaway to warm your bones? Las Vegas is heading into serious pool season come March, and you'll be able to capitalize on the shoulder season savings. Pack light layers and your walking shoes. You can enjoy a relatively crowd-free stroll along the Strip, before camping out at one of the many fabulous hotel pools in the afternoon.
If you're into college basketball, the city is humming with sports fans catching the games at the many bars and restaurants in town. You can even test your luck and put a bet down at one of Las Vegas' sportsbooks.
Valencia, Spain
For the ultimate Mediterranean holiday, it’s tough to beat Valencia, Spain. The city enjoys roughly 300 days of sunshine a year and a temperate climate that is really quite perfect any season.
But March is a wonderful time to get to this gem of a city because it's just before the throngs of tourists start to arrive. You can enjoy favorable hotel rates, balmy weather and the famous Las Fallas celebrations. This annual event brings together performance, culture, history and art.
Delhi, India
March is an ideal time to check Delhi off your bucket list. The weather is at the very best this time of year, before the humidity of summer sets in.
You'll be spending the majority of your time outdoors in Delhi, with so many wonderful sites to drink in, like the India Gate, the Red Fort (pictured) and the Lotus Temple. Or you can browse the shops in Sarojini Nagar market. Flowers in Delhi are in full bloom during March as well, so it will be a kaleidoscope of colors.
New Orleans
Early spring in New Orleans means a calendar that’s jam-packed with festivals. Sometimes, Mardi Gras lands in March, but it’s also a particularly good month for traveling foodies who want to taste everything this city has to offer.
Start with the New Orleans Bourbon Fest, and end with the annual New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. NOLA is a city that also loves to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, so you'll be in parade heaven if you weren’t already able to catch Mardi Gras.
Brussels
Shoulder season in the European Union capital means enticing hotel and flight rates. This is the time to take advantage of all that Brussels has to offer, from its craft brews to decadent chocolates.
Temperatures are still a tad crisp, around 50 degrees, but it will be worth it for the lack of crowds and the ease on your wallet.
Cairns, Australia
March may be the "wet" season in Cairns, Australia's tropical north, but this is why it's actually one of the best times to visit, especially if you love outdoor activity.
It's lush, green, and its rivers are running at full force — if you're into whitewater rafting, this is the time to be cruising down the Tully and Barron rivers. Hiking to waterfalls through the verdant rainforest is spectacular at this time of year as well. Plus, you'll be able to cool off and explore the vibrant Great Barrier Reef.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is one of the Crown Jewels of Mexico — it’s basically a microcosm of everything wonderful that the country has to offer. It's home to ancient ruins, Spanish architecture, beautiful new hotels, art, and is the heart of the country’s culinary scene.
The winter months, including March, are typically considered to be low season, so you'll find favorable hotel rates and fewer crowds. Still, the weather is warm enough during the day for wandering in the sunshine and cool in the evenings when you want to hunker down with a glass of local mezcal.
Death Valley, California
Each season brings its own enigmatic mystery to the wild beauty that is Death Valley National Park. But spring is by far one of the most beautiful, when the valleys explode in bright wildflowers.
The weather is also at its best during March, with warm, sunny days and cooler nights. Keep in mind that the end of March brings the spring break crowds, which is when lodging prices peak. But earlier in the month, visitors will still enjoy relatively cheaper prices.
Taipei, Taiwan
From night markets and street food, to cherry blossoms and festivals, March is one of the very best times to visit Taiwan's capital city. Peak tourism season is summer, so visitors can wander the alleys of Shilin night market before the rest of the crowds arrive.
Here is where you can really live the "eat like a local" dream. Because the weather in March can be somewhat unpredictable (like a rainstorm out of nowhere), you'll find the prices to be relatively lower than they are during peak travel times. Wander down Fortune Teller Alley to discover bars and nightclubs. Or venture out of the city to discover Beitou Hot Springs.
Istanbul
Springtime in Istanbul is nothing but pure magic in every sense. The Mediterranean weather is mild, hotel rates are low and crowds are manageable. Peak season is the summer, and this is when everything in Istanbul runs in extremes. Relish in the freedom to wander from attraction to attraction, like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, without wading your way through the throngs.
The weather won't go above 70 degrees until May, and you may still need an umbrella some days in March, but it's a small price to pay for the low prices and short wait times.
Brisbane, Australia
March is the tipping point right before the very peak travel season in Brisbane. The weather is warm and mild, but not as sticky as it can be during its summer. March is coming out of the wet season as well, so there are fewer days interrupted by rainstorms.
Visit the buzzing Brisbane City for the best restaurants, bars and shopping, or scoot out of town to North Stradbroke Island to spot whales, camp on the beach or go off-roading. There are also the Gondwana Rainforests, which are World Heritage-recognized.
Cape Town, South Africa
Shoulder season in Cape Town is the best time to visit. Not only are temperatures mild and perfect, hovering around 70 degrees, but there are fewer crowds, lower prices and, most importantly, the start of the annual wine harvest.
During this time, many of the wineries in and around Cape Town allow visitors to take part in the winemaking process. Cape Town also hosts the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March. It's all about food, wine and culture in this multicultural South African city.
Colorado
If you're still clinging to ski season, you'll be glad to know it's alive and well deep into March in Colorado. This means the state’s 22,000 acres of trails at 28 resorts are still in full swing into early spring. The weather does warm up slightly in March, too, allowing for more time outdoors without feeling the sting of the cold.
March is also the time to discover two of Aspen's three, free Hi-Fi Concert Series shows.
Kyoto, Japan
With the end of the winter rains comes the start of a beautiful spring in Kyoto, full of bright colors and vibrant festivals. While difficult to predict the exact date, cherry blossom season is at full bloom in March, when the walkways and riverbanks in the city blush pink and purple with beautiful blossoms.
March is also time for the Hanatoro Festival, when thousands of lanterns light up the Higashiyama district. The weather is fresh and balmy as well, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s.
Canouan Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
There are beach vacations, and then there's Canouan Island. Part of the Grenadine archipelago, Canouan is one of the islands that takes a bit of legwork to get to — but that's why you'll like it. The island is only 5 square miles and is essentially a sandbar from which to snorkel, sunbathe, paddle board or simply just sit.
It is that idyllic island escape you've been looking for — your Robinson Crusoe moment come to life with a luxury twist. Case in point: Mandarin Oriental reopened a 26-suite luxury hotel in 2018.
Charleston, South Carolina
Food? Heritage? The outdoors? Check, check and check. Charleston hits all the right notes when it comes to year-round travel, but March is of particular interest. Take, for example, the Charleston Wine and Food Festival, which features more than 100 events and experiences.
There is also the Charleston Antiques Show, art museums, golf courses and spas. There's no wrong time to visit Charleston, but if you pair your trip with one of its March events, you're certainly raising the bar.
Amman, Jordan
March gives way to verdant valleys carpeted in wildflowers, mild temperatures and a lower volume of tourists, making this one of the best times to visit Amman, Jordan. The rain begins to taper off as well, and migratory birds are making their way to the forests.
This means March is prime hiking season in Jordan, and one of the best times to visit the country's nature reserves. The end of March brings high season, so be sure to sneak in before the rest of the crowds do.
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
March is the very early beginning of peak travel season for Victoria and the rest of Vancouver Island. Temperatures start to climb, rain subsides, and the hills and trees begin to bloom with beautiful cherry blossoms and azaleas. Visit the wild and rugged Tofino coast, where sandy beaches offer year-round surfing opportunities.
March is when prices and crowds are incredibly low, so you may even have the entire swath of beach all to yourself. The desolate stretches are hauntingly beautiful and provide a perfect spot to catch your breath before the heaps of summer tourists start to visit.