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March is the ideal month for those who want to travel without tourist crowds and keep the trip budget-friendly. With spring arriving in the north and a seasonal slowdown in southern regions, this period opens up unique opportunities for lovers of sunshine, outdoor adventures and cultural discoveries.
Why is March a “golden window” for holidays? Experts from Lonely Planet note that March brings more sunny days to the northern hemisphere and makes popular destinations more accessible thanks to moderate prices and fewer tourists. In the southern hemisphere, meanwhile, the seasonal coolness creates ideal conditions for travellers looking for something special.
Top 7 destinations to visit in March 2026:
In March, many destinations are already warm, but not yet in high season — fewer tourists, gentler prices and more comfortable sightseeing.
Gran Canaria and Antigua are ideal for easy-going beach breaks, with mild climate, long promenades and calm turquoise seas.
Morocco and Costa Rica are perfect if you crave action: surfing, tropical trails, volcanoes and lush nature reserves.
Istanbul and Naples are dream city-breaks: rich gastronomy, deep history and authentic neighbourhoods to wander through.
Japan’s Kyushu island turns into a spring postcard in March, when the first cherry blossoms start to bloom and colour the landscapes.
March lets you pack maximum impressions into a smaller budget — from beaches and nature to historic cities and foodie discoveries.
1. Gran Canaria, Spain — paradise for relaxation
Gran Canaria, Spain is a true haven for relaxation. Sandy beaches, quiet seaside promenades and a soft, pleasant climate make your stay as relaxing as possible.
In March it’s already pleasantly warm here, but not yet hot and crowded. It’s the perfect time for long walks along the ocean, cosy hotels by the sea and a complete break from everyday rush in very comfortable weather.
2. Morocco — for those who want to catch the wave
Morocco is the perfect pick if you’re dreaming of catching waves. Surfing in this region attracts both beginners and pros thanks to ideal conditions and the warm waters of the Atlantic.
In March the weather is already stable and comfortable, while the ocean remains pleasantly warm. Surf schools and camps along the coast welcome guests with both intensive courses and laid-back schedules, always with sunsets over the Atlantic as your backdrop.
3. Costa Rica — outdoor adventures everywhere
Costa Rica is all about outdoor adventure: mountain trails, volcanoes, protected reserves and exotic beaches — a real paradise for active travellers and nature lovers.
March is often considered one of the best months to visit: you can combine jungle trekking, wildlife watching, swimming in the ocean and visiting national parks, while avoiding the heaviest rains of other seasons.
4. Istanbul, Turkey — a feast for foodies
Istanbul, Turkey is a pure gastronomic delight. Traditional bazaars, elegant restaurants and unique street food will turn your trip into a real gourmet journey.
In March, Istanbul is waking up after winter yet still remains pleasantly calm. It’s an excellent time to stroll narrow lanes, taste baklava, Turkish tea and coffee, and enjoy Bosphorus views without the intense summer heat.
5. Naples, Italy — the essence of Italian charm
Naples, Italy, offers that unmistakable southern Italian atmosphere. A city with a rich history, refined cuisine and views that inspire thousands of travellers every year.
In March, temperatures are already pleasant but without the scorching summer heat. Walking along the seafront, through the old quarters and up the surrounding hills is a real joy. You can mix museum visits, authentic Neapolitan pizza tastings and trips to Vesuvius or the Amalfi Coast.
6. Kyushu, Japan — the magic of cherry blossoms
Kyushu, Japan, is all about the magic of sakura. In March the island sees the start of cherry blossom season, creating spectacular natural scenes and attracting thousands of admirers of spring landscapes.
Itineraries around Kyushu can easily include hot springs, traditional small towns and modern cities. Blooming trees, soft air and a calm pace make this trip feel almost meditative.
7. Antigua — a dream spot for sun lovers
Antigua is the perfect place for sun worshippers. The island is famed for its golden beaches, turquoise waters and deeply relaxed island vibe.
In March, sunshine is reliable, the sea is warm and your days can be spent snorkelling, swimming or simply unwinding on a lounger under palm trees. It’s an excellent choice if you’re craving a total reset.
What to do in March 2026 in these destinations
March is not only an ideal time to travel, but also a chance to get maximum impressions for less money. Whether you’re after lazy beach days, outdoor adventures or cultural discoveries, March gives you a huge range of options.
On Gran Canaria and in Antigua, plan long days at the beach, walks along the seafront and romantic dinners by the ocean. The main goal here is to slow down and allow yourself to truly rest.
In Morocco and Costa Rica, put activities at the centre: surfing sessions, hikes, day trips to national parks, volcano visits, jungle trails and exploring authentic local towns.
In Istanbul and Naples, you can focus on food and culture: bazaars and markets, cafés, historic quarters, viewpoints, museums and long urban walks.
On Kyushu, plan strolls under blossoming cherry trees, visits to temples, onsen hot springs and traditional towns — March is ideal for a calm, contemplative rhythm with plenty of “movie-like” scenes.
Sample 1-day itinerary: a slow, sun-filled day on Gran Canaria
Morning: head to the ocean early, walk along the promenade and enjoy breakfast in a café with sea views. Afterwards, take time for a swim and some sunbathing on one of the sandy beaches.
Midday: have a relaxed lunch at a seafront restaurant with fresh fish and seafood. After lunch, explore the surroundings: picturesque villages, viewpoints or nearby natural parks.
Evening: enjoy a gentle stroll along the seafront, followed by dinner with local dishes and a glass of wine or a cocktail while watching the sunset.
This simple template can be easily adapted to other coastal destinations on the list — from Antigua to certain regions of Costa Rica.
Sample 2-day itinerary: urban weekend in Istanbul or Naples
Day 1 (culture & atmosphere): start with a walk through the historic centre, visiting key mosques, churches or cathedrals, then explore main squares and viewpoints. In the evening, enjoy dinner in a traditional restaurant and a stroll along the seafront or through the old districts.
Day 2 (food & views): visit local markets or bazaars, sample street food, then head to an observation point (a fortress, hill or tower) for panoramic city views. After lunch, keep the afternoon flexible — museums, shopping or simply getting lost in the streets with no fixed plan.
This kind of weekend works beautifully in both Istanbul and Naples — each city blends history, gastronomy and distinctive architecture in its own way.
How to get to these destinations in March
Many of the destinations in this list are reachable via convenient connections through major European hubs. In March, airfares are often lower than in the peak summer season, which helps to keep the overall trip cost down.
Gran Canaria, Antigua and Costa Rica usually require one or more connecting flights, so it is worth comparing several airlines and booking in advance to secure the best deals.
Istanbul and Naples are often served by regular and low-cost flights via big European cities. March is a great time to catch special offers and promotions.
For Japan (Kyushu), the most convenient option is usually to fly via a large Asian or regional hub and then continue with a domestic flight or high-speed train to your final stop.
March is more than just a convenient time to travel — it’s also your chance to get as many impressions as possible for less money. Whether you want a peaceful beach break, active outdoor adventures or culture-packed city trips, March offers endless possibilities.
Discover the best spring destinations and start planning your ideal March 2026 holiday now!
Source: Lonely Planet
11.02.2025
FAQ: travelling in March 2026
Why is March such a good month for travelling?
In many countries, the weather is already warming up in March, but high season hasn’t started yet. That means fewer tourists, better prices and a more comfortable experience overall.
Where can you already swim in the sea in March?
For proper beach weather and swimming, Gran Canaria, Antigua, certain resorts in Morocco and parts of Costa Rica are good options, with warm air and pleasant water temperatures.
Which destinations combine beach time with adventure?
Costa Rica and Morocco are perfect to mix beach days with surfing, hikes, visits to nature reserves and mountain or desert trips.
Is March a good choice for a romantic getaway?
Yes. Gran Canaria, Antigua, Naples and Istanbul are especially good for romantic escapes, with seafront promenades, viewpoints and charming old neighbourhoods.
Are flights in March cheaper than in summer?
Usually yes. Airfares in March tend to be lower than in peak summer, especially if you book a few months in advance and keep an eye on airline sales.
Is the weather unstable in March?
Shoulder season can bring some variability, so it’s important to check the forecast in advance and pick destinations with relatively stable March climates.
Which cities are best for a foodie city break?
Istanbul and Naples are fantastic for foodies: rich street food scenes, colourful markets, cafés and traditional restaurants with strong local character.
Is March a good time to see sakura in Japan?
Yes, on Kyushu island cherry blossom season usually starts around March, making it an excellent time to plan a trip for spring scenery.
Can I combine several countries in one March trip?
Absolutely. You can, for example, combine Istanbul with a European city, or plan an island-hopping route if you manage flight connections smartly.
How far in advance should I book accommodation for March?
Ideally 1–3 months ahead, especially if you’re heading to popular cities or islands where the best properties get booked early.
Is March suitable for travelling with kids?
Yes. The mild weather and absence of extreme heat make March a comfortable month for family trips, especially in Europe and beach destinations.
Can I combine remote work and vacation in March?
Yes. Many destinations on this list offer reliable internet, comfortable cafés and pleasant weather, so you can work during the day and explore after hours.
