Recently updated on February 24th, 2025 at 11:15 am
March is the perfect time to explore Europe. It’s a bit a sweet spot, falling between the chill of winter and warmth of spring. During March you can expect fewer crowds and lower travel costs, yet there’s plenty of sunshine, snow and joy to be found at these European destinations. Picture tulips blooming in Dutch gardens, cozy cafes in historic cities, or thrilling ski runs in the Alps. March is when Europe wakes up, shaking off the more dormant season and getting ready for a vibrant summer ahead. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, or relaxation, here’s a list of where to vacation in Europe in March – along with some of the best Europe tours.
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Is March a good month to visit Europe?
March is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Yes, it’s the shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and better deals on flights, accommodation and tours. It means you can wander popular cities like Paris or Rome without the pressing crowds of summer or late spring.
Weather is, of course, a concern. Depending on which European destination you visit, you can expect a mix of crisp, sunny days in the south and lingering snow in the north. Yes, you could be in a t-shirt and shorts enjoying a sunny lunch at the beach in southern Spain, or off skiing in early spring snow in the Alps.
March is also packed with festivals and festivities. There’s St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, and its tulip season in the Netherlands. Plus this year carnival will fall in March, an event celebrated across the continent in many weird and wacky ways.
What are the warmest places in Europe in March?
If you’re chasing the sun in Europe this March, head south! Down there spring feels more like an early summer. Some of the warmest places in Europe are the Canary Islands, where temps hover around 20–25°C (68–77°F), or Madeira Island, who has the known “island of Eternal Spring.” Closer to the continent, Malta, Cyrus and Sicily are always quite delightful and warm. Or you could escape to southern Andalusia, where beautiful Seville can reach 20°C (68°F) or more, perfect for outdoor dining and sightseeing.
Top 3 European city breaks in March
March is a great month for a European city escape. The crowds are thinner, the weather is mild, and each destination throws up its own seasonal charm. Here are three standout picks:
1. Florence, Italy
As spring begins to bloom, Florence reveals its softer, quieter side. The birthplace of the Renaissance is firmly on the tourist trail, but March means fewer tourists. You can admire iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral, and Ponte Vecchio without the summer hustle. Enjoy early spring sunshine with a creamy gelato!
2. Seville, Spain
Seville in March is just magic. This area of southern Spain is notoriously warm in summer, so in spring the temperature is just right for wandering the stunning Alcázar or climbing La Giralda tower. You’ll be dining outdoors, snacking on tapas and small beers under blooming orange trees.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague sweeps your up in its fairytale, and the cooler March weather adds a cozy vibe as you explore the medieval streets of Old Town, or stroll along Charles Bridge. You can visit famous sites like Prague Castle or the Astronomical Clock without the rush, and end your day with mugs of mulled wine!
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Top 3 spots to embrace spring in Europe
March is a great month to see Europe step into spring w ith colorful blooms galore! Consider these European destinations:
1. Keukenhof, Netherlands
Known as the “Garden of Europe,” Keukenhof is a dream destination for flower lovers. Opening in mid-March, the gardens explode with a kaleidoscope of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in perfectly manicured displays. Pair your visit with a bike ride through the surrounding countryside, where endless tulip fields stretch to the horizon. A dream!
2. Scottish Highlands, Scotland
The Highlands in March are a feast for the senses. Crisp air, snow-dusted peaks, and wildflower-filled glens create a dramatic, peaceful landscape. Plus, March offers a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights dancing in the dark skies over Scotland’s rugged terrain.
3. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a fairytale destination, and in March snow still dusts the peaks, but the lake itself begins to thaw, creating stunning reflections. Here you can wander the lakeside, hike for breathtaking views, or enjoy a serene boat ride to the famous church on Bled Island.
European destinations with snow in March
If you’re a snow lover, Europe still offers plenty of wintry wonderlands in March. Look at these for a snowy escape:
1. St. Moritz, Switzerland
A world-famous winter retreat, St. Moritz combines luxury and natural beauty in the heart fo Switzerland. March offers excellent skiing conditions on its well-groomed slopes and scenic cross-country trails. Beyond skiing, you can enjoy ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, or relaxing at a lakeside spa. Add in breathtaking alpine scenery and the upscale vibe for a perfect Euro spring snow break.
2. Chamonix, France
Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, beautiful Chamonix is a favourite spot for ski enthusiasts. Expect breathtaking alpine views, cozy mountain lodges, and good conditions for late-season skiing. Off the slopes, the town has an epic après-ski scene. Plus you can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for jaw-dropping views of the snow-capped Alps.
3. Lapland, Finland
Who hasn’t dreamed of going to Lapland? And March is a magical time. There’s more daylight in March, yet the snow is pristine – and you can join exhilarating activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing through silent forests. If you’re lucky the Northern Lights will be dancing across the Arctic skies – and this year is meant to be better than usual!
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Unique March festivals and events
Europe starts to wake up with spring in March, and here are a few events to add to your calendar:
1. St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland
St. Patrick’s Day – which falls on March 17th each year – turns Ireland into a green-hued city-wide celebration of Irish culture. Expect lively parades, traditional music, and colorful street parades. Of course, there’s no better day to order a pint of Guinness, join the festivities, and experience the famous warmth of Irish hospitality firsthand.
2. Carnival in Venice, Italy
If Carnival falls in early March – as it does in 2025 – then Venice transforms into another world of costumes and masks. Gondolas glide along carrying elaborately dressed revelers, and locals rush about heading to opulent masquerade balls. Find your way to Piazza San Marco and enjoy a front-row seat to the drama and pageantry. If not Venice, lots of European destinations celebrate carnival in their own way.
3. Budapest Spring Festival in Hungary
The Budapest Spring Festival celebrates art, music, and dance at the city’s greatest venues, like the Hungarian State Opera and Palace of Arts. Visit in March and find yourself being a tourist by day, and enjoying world-class artistic performances by night.
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That’s our list of where to take a vacation in Europe in March. Would you add anywhere else? Leave us a comment…