European Cities to Visit in March
Picture this: it’s March, and you’re ready to shake off the winter cobwebs, pack your suitcase and head off on a new adventure. The beginning of spring, this is when Europe begins to wake up from its winter slumber, and is one of the most underrated months for a city break. Discover the best European cities to visit in March, whether you’re after cultural celebrations, spring blooms, natural phenomenon, or simply some sun.
What is Europe weather like in March?
Europe is a vast continent, and as such the weather varies greatly across it – particularly in March, which is a highly transitional month between winter and spring.
Northern Europe is still experiencing pretty brisk weather in March, with Baltic countries (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) and the UK and Ireland averaging around 6ºC (42ºF), while Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden) are even colder. However, daylight hours are on the up – most countries average around 12-13 hours in March, and the UK’s British Summertime comes into effect on the last Sunday in March, giving an extra hour of daylight.
Meanwhile, the warmest European cities to visit in March are in the Mediterranean and Southern Europe in Italy, Spain and Greece. Average temperatures around these areas can reach around 17°C (62ºF), though these areas usually see a great influx of tourists in the heat of late spring and summer. Visiting in March allows you to see these holiday hotspots before they’re at their busiest.
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
March is tulip season in the Netherlands, so if you want to see a burst of bright colors bloom after winter, then head to Amsterdam.
The Tulip Festival takes place from mid-March to early May, so March is the beginning of tulip season – but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Millions of tulips are beginning to bloom in and around Amsterdam, from neighborhood flowerbeds to landscaped gardens like Keukenhof Gardens, just outside of Amsterdam.
March is still off-peak season in Amsterdam, so you won’t have to jostle with busy crowds. There may be short rain showers and cool temperatures (around 10ºC/50ºF), but pack layers and waterproofs and you’ll be prepared.
Each fall in Keukenhof Gardens, gardeners plant around 7 million tulip bulbs by hand across three months.
2. Lisbon, Portugal
The bright yellow colors of Lisbon make it feel as though the sun is shining all year round, but March is when the weather really starts to warm up and the sun makes more of an appearance. Al fresco coffee and pastel de nata are back on the menu, though t’s also mild enough (around 18ºC/65°F) that exploring will feel like a breeze – and walking up Lisbon’s notoriously steep hills won’t see you drenched in sweat.
3. Oslo, Norway
If you’re after some warmth when looking for European cities to visit in March, then Norway isn’t for you. However, the spring equinox (20th March) is a great time to visit if you want to catch sight of the Northern Lights. Increased geomagnetic activity during the March equinox offers the best chance to witness the phenomenon in Oslo which, being in southern Norway, experiences it less often.
When you’re not aurora hunting, sightseeing is very much on the cards. Oslo can see between 10.5 to 13.5 hours of daylight depending on when in the month you visit – a dramatic increase from the depths of winter.
4. Seville, Spain
Warm up in Seville in March, where temperatures can reach up to 20ºF (68ºF) and the smell of orange trees fills the air as they blossom around the city. If you’re lucky, Seville’s Holy Week celebrations can fall in March (depending on when Easter is), which sees a week-long series of religious processions wind through the streets.
5. Athens, Greece
The balmy temperatures of Athens in March are a welcome relief from the scorching weather that can hit the Greek capital in the summertime. Forget waiting in line to see the iconic Acropolis, or jostling with crowds of tourists in its many museums – March is when the season is just beginning, and is much quieter. It’s warm enough to wander around and explore outside, but with temperatures dropping to lows of 8ºC (47°F) at night, definitely pack a jacket.
6. Dublin, Ireland
One of the liveliest European cities to visit in March, Dublin’s cobblestone streets are buzzing with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. While the day itself falls on 17th March each year, festivities begin a few days before with street performances, pub celebrations in the iconic Temple Bar, and plenty of music. Yes, it’s one of the busiest times to visit Dublin, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
7. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Spring in Dubrovnik is highly underrated; the sun is shining, the weather is warm but mild (around 15ºC/59ºF), and most restaurants and popular sites have reopened after the winters. The best part? You’ll have the Old Town (mostly) to yourself, as you’re still a few months away from the business of summer. It’s the perfect time for exploring this medieval city, although it might be a little chilly for a dip in the sea – unless you’re feeling particularly brave.
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One of the warmest European cities to visit in March is Agrigento, Sicily’s hilltop ancient city. The Italian island comes alive with almond blossom at the beginning of spring, with Agrigento celebrating both the Festival of Almond Blossom and the International Folklore Festival. White flowers cover the island, making famous sights like the Valley of the Temples even more beautiful.
9. Tirana, Albania
Once under the radar, Albania is now growing in popularity thanks to its affordability, natural beauty and laid-back energy. Its capital Tirana is a vibrant, buzzing city that blends history with modern culture, with traditional architecture next to trendy cafes. March is the first month of spring and Tirana is full of blooms and blossoms, while good weather makes it the perfect time to explore the city – without the crowds. Tirana warms up considerably, with daytime highs between 12–20°C (54–68°F).
Where should I visit in Europe in March?
In March, if you want warm weather then visit Portugal’s Algarve region or Seville; if you want festivals, visit Lisbon or Sicily; and if you want to see spring blooms, visit Amsterdam or Tirana.
Warm places to visit in Europe in March?
Head to southern Europe for warm places to visit in March, including Cyprus, Malta, Southern Spain (Seville or Malaga), and the Algarve region in Portugal, with highs often reaching 17-22°C (62.6-71.6°F)
Why is early spring so good for exploring European cities?
In early spring, most European cities are waking up from the cold, dark winter months. Flowers are blooming, al fresco dining is back on the menu, and seasonal attractions begin to reopen to the public – but it’s also one of the best times to visit to avoid peak season crowds, giving you time to explore many of these European cities undisturbed.
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About Jess Williamson
Jess is an experienced writer and editor, with 6 years' experience working within the whisky industry. Her work has taken her to Scotland and beyond, while her personal travel highlights include backpacking around Vietnam with her sister, trips to California, Madrid, and the Greek islands.
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