March Travel Destinations 2026: 15 Picks for Sun, Spring & City Trips

Where to travel in March? Fifteen destinations — each covered in depth with photo spots, weather, budget and March tips. From cherry blossom in Japan and tulips in Holland to the Canaries, Marrakesch and spring in Germany.

March travel destinations — spring trip with blossom, sun and coastal landscape
Martin Kleinheinz
Author
Martin Kleinheinz
Photographer · Content Creator · Hannover
Updated
12 July 2026

March in Germany is the month of false hope: one day of sun, three days of sleet — and suddenly the question is: where to travel in March? Whether a weekend short break, city trip, spring holiday with family or targeted sun trip: the third month of the year is very travel-friendly if you hit the right climate window.

This guide covers the main search intents: warm March destinations, cheap March holidays, Europe without crowds, Easter holiday destinations and photogenic spring spots. Each of the 15 destinations below is covered in depth — with image, atmosphere, photo spots, weather, budget and concrete March tips: Japan, Canaries, Madeira, Marrakesch, Andalusia, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Dubai, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Rome, Tuscany, Algarve, Jordan and Germany.

Planning: Plan a photo trip, Packing list. Germany: Most beautiful vacation spots, Hidden gems Northern Germany. Winter: November & winter destinations. Dream destinations: Dream travel destinations. Guided trips: Photo trips.

00
Overview

The 15 best March destinations at a glance

Legend: March = suitability specifically in March (★–★★★). Photo = subject variety and light (★–★★★★★). Budget = typical cost per person/week (flight from central Europe, mid-range accommodation).

#DestinationCategoryMarchAvg. temp.PhotoFlightBudget/week
1Japan (cherry blossom)Spring · Culture★★★8–18 °C★★★★★~11 h€3,500–6,000
2Canaries (Tenerife)Sun · Beach★★★18–24 °C★★★★~4.5 h€800–1,500
3MadeiraSun · Nature★★★16–20 °C★★★★★~4 h€1,200–2,500
4MarrakeschSun · Culture★★★15–25 °C★★★★★~4 h€900–2,000
5AndalusiaSpring · Culture★★★14–22 °C★★★★★~3 h€900–1,800
6Amsterdam & KeukenhofSpring · Flowers★★★6–12 °C★★★★~1 h€700–1,400
7LisbonCity · Coast★★★12–18 °C★★★★~3 h€600–1,200
8Dubai & UAESun · Luxury★★★22–30 °C★★★★~6 h€2,000–4,500
9Sri LankaSun · Nature★★★27–32 °C★★★★★~10 h€1,500–3,000
10Thailand (North & islands)Sun · Culture★★★25–35 °C★★★★★~11 h€1,200–2,500
11RomeCity · Culture★★★10–17 °C★★★★~2 h€800–1,600
12TuscanySpring · Landscape★★10–16 °C★★★★~2 h€900–1,800
13Algarve (Portugal)Sun · Coast★★★15–20 °C★★★★~3 h€600–1,200
14Jordan (Petra)Culture · Desert★★★12–22 °C★★★★★~5 h€1,200–2,500
15Germany springShort break · close★★5–14 °C★★★★€200–600

March travel destinations 2026 — comparison for holidays, city trips and sun

01
Timing

Why March is a strong travel month

March is neither high season nor low point — and that's exactly what makes it attractive. If you take holiday in March, you benefit from three advantages over summer and winter:

Price window before Easter
Before Easter holidays (depending on year, mid-March to early April), flights to southern Europe and the Canaries are often 20–40% cheaper than summer or Christmas season.
Climate windows worldwide
Sri Lanka and Thailand: dry season. Canaries & Morocco: pleasantly warm, not too hot. Japan: cherry blossom end of March. Andalusia: orange blossom and Semana Santa.
Less mass tourism
Rome, Lisbon, Tuscany — before the summer rush. Museums without hour-long queues. Hotels with availability.
Light for photographers
Spring light is soft and warm. Longer days than winter. Fog in Germany, golden evening light on the Mediterranean.

March is the month when you're not yet fighting the whole world for the same sunset — but you already have enough light not to flee straight back to the hotel afterwards.

Martin Kleinheinz
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02
Spring · Culture

1. Japan — cherry blossom (Sakura)

Japan — cherry blossom Sakura over temple and park in Kyoto
Japan in March/April: cherry blossom — the most photogenic natural event of the year.

The highlight of every March travel calendar: cherry blossom (sakura) in Tokyo and Kyoto typically starts last week of March to mid-April — weather dependent. Maruyama Park, Philosopher's Path, Fushimi Inari, Nara — subjects that sell themselves. For photographers and culture travellers, Japan in March is the ultimate bucket-list destination.

The route Tokyo → Kyoto → Nara → Osaka covers city energy and temple atmosphere. Shinkansen saves time, but light gear is essential — you'll be walking a lot. Check the bloom forecast (Japan Meteorological Corporation) shortly before departure: blossom shifts 1–2 weeks every year.

Highlights
Maruyama Park sakura, Philosopher's Path Kyoto, Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama bamboo, Nara Park, Shibuya Crossing, TeamLab
Photo spots
Maruyama Park (night illumination!), Philosopher's Path, Fushimi Inari (very early morning), Kiyomizu-dera, Shibuya from above
Ideal for
Photographers, culture travellers, couples, bucket-list trip — possible with children, but long and expensive
March weather
8–18 °C in Kyoto/Tokyo — layers, umbrella. Blossom peak end of March (weather dependent ±1–2 weeks)
Duration
10–14 days: 4 Tokyo + 5 Kyoto + day trips Nara/Osaka; JR Pass if taking multiple Shinkansen rides
Budget
€3,500–6,000/person/week — sakura season: book flights and hotels 6+ months ahead
Equipment
35 mm street + 24–70 mm for temples; light telephoto (70–200 mm) for blossom details; tripod for night illumination
Tip
Early bloom: south (Kyushu). Late bloom: north (Hokkaido in May). Main season Kyoto/Tokyo: last week of March. Early mornings at temples — bus parks full from 9 am
03
Sun · Beach

2. Canaries — sun guarantee, short flight

Canaries Tenerife — Teide volcano and Atlantic coast at sunset
Canaries: Teide, lava beaches and 18–24 °C — the classic for sun in March.

The Canaries are the classic for March holidays with sun: 4–5 hours' flight, 18–24 °C, little rain. Tenerife offers Teide National Park (above the clouds), Anaga forests, black lava beaches and a wild north coast. Cheaper than the Caribbean, closer than Dubai — and for families the most stress-free sun trip from central Europe.

For photographers, Tenerife with hire car pays off: Teide at sunrise (starry sky + volcanic landscape), Masca gorge, dragon tree, Anaga mist forests. South coast for beach and pool, north for drama. Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are alternatives — Tenerife has the greatest subject variety.

Highlights
Teide National Park, Masca gorge, Anaga forests, Los Cristianos/Playa de las Américas, Santa Cruz, starry skies at 2,000 m
Photo spots
Teide sunrise (permit for summit!), Masca gorge, dragon tree Icod, Anaga mist, black lava beaches
Ideal for
Families, couples, sun seekers, short break (4–7 days), first sun trip of the year
March weather
18–24 °C, dry, sea water 19–20 °C — swimmable for hardy types, hotel pools warm
Duration
5–10 days — 4 days minimum for Teide + coast; hire car almost essential for photo spots
Budget
€800–1,500/person/week — package deals in March often under €500/person; hire car +€30–50/day
Equipment
24–70 mm all-rounder; wide angle for Teide landscape; light jacket for mountains (10 °C difference)
Tip
Teide sunrise: book permit online (free, limited). Package deal saves money — hire car still worth it for Anaga and Masca
04
Sun · Nature

3. Madeira — flower island in the Atlantic

Madeira — Ponta de São Lourenço volcanic peninsula on the Atlantic
Madeira: levadas, cliffs and spring bloom — nature instead of party.

Madeira in March: spring bloom, 16–20 °C, levada hiking trails, cliffs and Funchal market halls. The flower market in Funchal and Levada do Caldeirão Verde are must-dos. Less party than the Canaries, more nature and photography — my favourite for couples and hikers who want sun without mass tourism.

The levada hiking trails (irrigated mountain channels) are unique: waterfall walls, rainforest atmosphere, cliff views. Pico do Arieiro at sunrise above the sea of clouds, Porto Moniz with natural pools, Ponta de São Lourenço as volcanic moonscape on the Atlantic. Cabo Girão — one of Europe's highest cliffs.

Highlights
Ponta de São Lourenço, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Pico do Arieiro, Porto Moniz, Funchal market & old town, Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos
Photo spots
Pico do Arieiro sunrise, Ponta de São Lourenço (volcanic), levada waterfalls, Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos sunset
Ideal for
Hikers, photographers, couples, relaxation without mass tourism — less suited for pure beach holidays
March weather
16–20 °C, mild, green — fog possible in mountains, coast often sunnier
Duration
5–8 days — 2 days Funchal, 3–4 levada hikes, 1 coast day
Budget
€1,200–2,500/person/week — short flight (4 h) keeps overall costs low
Equipment
24–70 mm for levadas; rain cover for camera — mist and spray at waterfalls
Tip
Madeira Flower Festival (depending on year, late March/April) — colourful street parades. Levada guides in foggy weather — safer and better spot knowledge. Winter context: November & winter destinations
05
Culture · Desert

4. Marrakesch — desert, souks & 25 degrees

Marrakesch — Jardin Majorelle blue garden and medina architecture
Marrakesch: medina, Majorelle and Agafay desert — pure colour and texture.

Marrakesch in March: 15–25 °C, dry, perfect for the medina, Jardin Majorelle and day trips to Agafay desert camp or the Atlas Mountains. Evenings on the rooftop terrace — no longer July heat. Strong content spot for photographers: colours, textures, architecture.

Photogenic: architecture, souks, desert camps at sunset, Jardin Majorelle in Yves Klein blue. Respect: don't photograph people in the medina secretly — ask or book a guide. Riad in the medina + 1–2 nights Agafay desert camp = perfect combo for 4–6 days.

Highlights
Medina & Djemaa el-Fna, Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, Agafay luxury camps, Atlas day trip, hammam, souks
Photo spots
Jardin Majorelle (early morning!), medina passages, Koutoubia evening light, Agafay sunset, Atlas panorama
Ideal for
Couples, culture fans, photographers, 4–6 days — city trip with desert excursion
March weather
15–25 °C, dry — perfect window before summer heat (unbearable from June)
Duration
4–6 days: 3 Marrakesch + 1–2 Agafay or Atlas
Budget
€900–2,000/person/week — riads cheaper than 5-star resorts, food affordable
Equipment
35 mm + 24–70 mm for medina; 70–200 mm for Atlas; discreet camera bag in souks
Tip
Book a riad in the medina — shoot in the morning before tour groups arrive. Guide = access + safety. More desert context: Dream travel destinations
06
Spring · Culture

5. Andalusia — orange blossom & Semana Santa

Andalusia — Alhambra Granada with snow-capped mountains and orange trees
Andalusia: Alhambra, orange blossom and white villages — spring in Spain.

Seville, Granada, Córdoba in March: 14–22 °C, orange trees in bloom, Alhambra without summer heat. Semana Santa (Holy Week) often falls in March — spectacular processions, but hotels booked out. Outside Holy Week: one of the best March destinations in Europe.

Road trip with hire car: Seville → Ronda → Granada → Córdoba — tapas, flamenco, architecture and white villages. Costa de la Luz for Atlantic sunsets. For photographers: Alcázar Seville, Alhambra, narrowest alleys in Ronda, orange blossom scent included.

Highlights
Alhambra Granada, Alcázar Seville, Mezquita Córdoba, Ronda Puente Nuevo, Costa de la Luz, flamenco tablao
Photo spots
Alhambra Generalife (evening light!), Alcázar gardens, Ronda bridge, orange blossom Seville, Costa de la Luz sunset
Ideal for
Culture, architecture, tapas, road trip with hire car, couples and friends
March weather
14–22 °C, sunny — jacket in the evening, often T-shirt weather during the day
Duration
7–10 days road trip — 3 cities minimum; 5 days compact (Granada + Seville)
Budget
€900–1,800/person/week — food cheap, Alhambra tickets €15–20 (book months ahead!)
Equipment
16–35 mm architecture + 70–200 mm details; polarising filter for sky and water
Tip
Alhambra tickets months ahead — popular even in March. Semana Santa: either experience it consciously (book early!) or choose the week before/after
07
Spring · Flowers

6. Amsterdam & Keukenhof — tulips from mid-March

Amsterdam — canals and tulip fields at Keukenhof in spring
Amsterdam & Keukenhof: 7 million tulips — the spring classic from central Europe.

Keukenhof typically opens mid-March to mid-May — 7 million tulips, hyacinths and daffodils. Combined with Amsterdam (canals, Jordaan, Rijksmuseum): classic spring holiday from central Europe in under 2 hours (flight or train).

Amsterdam in March: cool (6–12 °C), but photogenic — morning mist on the canals, cycling without summer crowds, museums without hour-long queues. Keukenhof: weekday instead of weekend, early morning for empty tulip fields. Flower fields outside (Lisse, Noordwijkerhout) reachable by bike or bus.

Highlights
Keukenhof, canal cruise, Jordaan, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, tulip fields Lisse, Vondelpark
Photo spots
Keukenhof tulip fields (wide angle!), canal mist morning, Jordaan alleys, flower fields by bike
Ideal for
Couples, photographers, short break (3–4 days), cyclists, families (Keukenhof child-friendly)
March weather
6–12 °C, changeable — rain jacket essential. Early March: less bloom. Late March: peak begins
Duration
3–4 days — 1 day Keukenhof, 2 days Amsterdam, optional tulip field bike tour
Budget
€700–1,400/person/week — train from central Europe often cheaper than flight; Keukenhof ticket around €20
Equipment
Wide angle for tulip fields, 85 mm for details — CPL for water and sky; rain cover
Tip
Keukenhof ticket online in advance. Weekday instead of weekend. Early March: less bloom, but less crowded. Late March: peak begins
08
City · Coast

7. Lisbon — light, tiles & 7 hills

Lisbon — Miradouro viewpoint over Alfama and the Tagus
Lisbon: yellow tram, azulejos and Sintra — affordable March classic.

Lisbon in March: 12–18 °C, sunny days possible, Alfama alleys, Belém, Sintra day trip. Cheaper than Barcelona or Paris, as photogenic as few other cities. One of the best cheap March holidays from central Europe.

The 7 hills deliver miradouros (viewpoints) on every corner — Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Portas do Sol, Graça. Azulejos (tiles), yellow tram 28, Pastéis de Belém. Sintra (Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira) as day trip — in March without summer queues.

Highlights
Alfama, Belém (tower, monastery), Sintra (Pena Palace), LX Factory, Time Out Market, Praia da Ursa (excursion)
Photo spots
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, yellow tram 28, Praia da Ursa, Pena Palace Sintra, Alfama blue hour
Ideal for
Solo, couples, foodies, 3–5 days — affordable entry to Portugal
March weather
12–18 °C, sunny days possible — jacket in the evening, wind on the coast
Duration
3–5 days city + 1 Sintra — 4 days ideal
Budget
€600–1,200/person/week — cheapest city destination on this list; food affordable
Equipment
35 mm street + 24–70 mm; light telephoto for tram and details
Tip
Tram 28 early morning — otherwise overcrowded. Sintra on weekdays. Combo with Algarve: 3 days Lisbon + 4 days south coast
09
Sun · Luxury

8. Dubai & UAE — luxury sun before the heat

Dubai — Burj Khalifa and desert dunes at sunset
Dubai: architecture, desert and pool — last comfortable season before summer heat.

March in Dubai: 22–30 °C — warm enough for pool and beach, but still bearable for desert safari and city exploration. Before extreme summer heat (from May), the last comfortable season. More expensive than Morocco, but maximum infrastructure and stopover option (Emirates).

For photographers: Burj Khalifa blue hour, desert dunes at sunset, Al Fahidi Historic District, Palm Jumeirah by drone (permit required!). Architecture trip par excellence — modern, quirky, Instagram-ready. Abu Dhabi (Sheikh Zayed Mosque) as day trip.

Highlights
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Al Fahidi, desert safari, Palm Jumeirah, Sheikh Zayed Mosque (Abu Dhabi), Dubai Mall
Photo spots
Burj Khalifa blue hour, desert dunes sunset, Al Fahidi alleys, Palm Jumeirah (drone with permit!)
Ideal for
Luxury holidays, stopover (Emirates), architecture photography, couples, 4–7 days
March weather
22–30 °C, dry — last window before 40-degree summer (May–September)
Duration
4–7 days — 2 city, 1 desert, 1–2 beach/pool; stopover 2–3 days
Budget
€2,000–4,500/person/week — hotels and restaurants expensive; desert safari from €80
Equipment
16–35 mm architecture; ND filter for bright desert; drone only with UAE permit
Tip
4 days is enough — 2 city, 1 desert, 1 beach/pool. Ramadan (variable) can affect opening hours — check in advance
10
Sun · Nature

9. Sri Lanka — dry season and variety

Sri Lanka — Nine Arch Bridge in green tea plantation landscape
Sri Lanka: tea plantations, Sigiriya and coast — one country, ten subjects.

March is high season on Sri Lanka's west and south coast: dry, 27–32 °C, calm sea. Sigiriya, tea country, train to Ella, Yala safari — one country, ten subjects. Long haul, but often cheaper than the Maldives.

Route Colombo → Sigiriya → Kandy → Ella → south coast (Galle/Mirissa) covers culture, nature and beach. Nine Arch Bridge at sunrise, Sigiriya rock (early!), tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, Galle Fort. Book driver with van — flexible for light and spontaneous stops.

Highlights
Sigiriya rock, Nine Arch Bridge Ella, tea country Nuwara Eliya, Yala safari, Galle Fort, Mirissa/Weligama coast
Photo spots
Nine Arch Bridge (train timing!), Sigiriya sunrise, tea plantations, Galle Fort, stilt fishermen (southwest)
Ideal for
Adventurers, nature lovers, photographers, 10–14 days — most varied long-haul trip on this list
March weather
27–32 °C west/south coast, dry — northeast monsoon, west perfect
Duration
10–14 days — under 10 days too hectic for the route
Budget
€1,500–3,000/person/week — cheap on the ground, driver around €50–70/day
Equipment
24–70 mm + 70–200 mm for wildlife; light telephoto for Sigiriya details
Tip
Book driver with van — flexible for light and spontaneous stops. Yala safari early morning. Train Ella: reserve 1st class
11
Sun · Culture

10. Thailand — cool north, dry islands

Thailand — longtail boat in turquoise bay near Krabi
Thailand: dry season — temples, street food and islands in one trip.

March in Thailand: dry season, in the north (Chiang Mai) more pleasant than April. Bangkok, Chiang Mai temples, islands (Koh Samui, Krabi) — good climate before pre-season heat. Affordable March holiday with great food and subject variety.

North: temples in morning mist, Doi Suthep, night bazaar, ethical elephant sanctuaries. Islands: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Krabi (Railay, Phi Phi) — longtail boats, limestone cliffs, turquoise water. Bangkok for street food and temples. North + island combo in 12–14 days with domestic flight.

Highlights
Chiang Mai temples, Doi Suthep, Bangkok Grand Palace, Koh Samui, Krabi Railay, Phi Phi, street food
Photo spots
Chiang Mai temples morning mist, Krabi longtail boats, Bangkok street food, Railay Beach sunset
Ideal for
Backpackers to boutique, families (Koh Samui), culture (Chiang Mai), 10–14 days
March weather
25–35 °C — north more pleasant (25–30 °C), islands dry and sunny
Duration
10–14 days: 4 Chiang Mai + 5–6 island; domestic flight saves time
Budget
€1,200–2,500/person/week — cheap on the ground, domestic flights from €30
Equipment
24–70 mm all-rounder; underwater for snorkelling; 35 mm for temples and street food
Tip
Songkran (Thai New Year) falls mid-April — March is quieter. Winter context: November & winter destinations
12
City · Culture

11. Rome — Colosseum without 40-degree queues

Rome — Colosseum and Roman Forum in golden spring light
Rome: antiquity, Trastevere and Vatican — culture before summer heat.

Rome in March: 10–17 °C, jacket in the evening, often sunny during the day. Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trastevere, Vatican — all doable without summer queues. Easter holiday in Rome (Vatican) is world-famous — book early if Holy Week.

For photographers: Colosseum blue hour, Trevi Fountain early morning (otherwise impossible), Castel Sant'Angelo from the bridge, Trastevere alleys. Vatican: St. Peter's Square, museums (Sistine Chapel) — online tickets essential. Pasta and gelato as side programme.

Highlights
Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican (St. Peter, museums), Trevi, Pantheon, Trastevere, Villa Borghese
Photo spots
Colosseum blue hour, Trevi early morning, Castel Sant'Angelo from Ponte Sant'Angelo, Trastevere alleys
Ideal for
Culture, history, couples, first Italy trip, 3–5 days
March weather
10–17 °C — jacket in the evening, often sunny and mild during the day
Duration
3–5 days — 4 days ideal for all highlights without rushing
Budget
€800–1,600/person/week — museums €15–20, food mid-range
Equipment
35 mm street + 24–70 mm; tripod for blue hour (Colosseum)
Tip
Omnia Card or separate online tickets — never queue on site. Holy Week: Vatican extreme — either experience it (book early!) or avoid
13
Spring · Landscape

12. Tuscany — cypresses & empty vineyards

Tuscany — Val d'Orcia cypress avenue in spring
Tuscany: fog, cypresses and empty roads — romance before the summer rush.

Tuscany in March: 10–16 °C, fog over Val d'Orcia, no vine leaves yet — but minimalist landscape and empty roads. San Gimignano, Siena, Montepulciano. Not for beach — but unbeatable for romance and photography.

Subjects: cypress avenues, terracotta farmhouses, rolling hills, medieval towers. Val d'Orcia (UNESCO) at sunrise in fog — iconic. Chianti region for wine tasting, Siena for Piazza del Campo. Hire car essential — public transport in the countryside is thin.

Highlights
Val d'Orcia, San Gimignano, Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza, Chianti wine roads, Montalcino
Photo spots
Val d'Orcia cypress avenue (Podere Belvedere), San Gimignano towers, Siena Piazza del Campo, fog sunrise
Ideal for
Couples, food & wine, landscape photography, road trip — not for beach holidays
March weather
10–16 °C, morning fog possible — rain jacket, layers
Duration
5–7 days road trip — 2 base locations (e.g. Val d'Orcia + Chianti)
Budget
€900–1,800/person/week — agriturismo cheaper than hotels in Siena
Equipment
16–35 mm landscape; 70–200 mm for compression; tripod for fog and blue hour
Tip
Hire car essential. Out early — fog lifts around 9 am. Easter holiday romantic, but book agriturismo early
14
Sun · Coast

13. Algarve — first sun in Europe

Algarve — Benagil cave and dramatic cliffs on the Portuguese coast
Algarve: cliffs, empty beaches and 15–20 °C — cheapest sun from central Europe.

The Algarve in March: 15–20 °C, first sunny days, empty beaches, dramatic cliffs (Benagil, Ponta da Piedade). Cheaper than the Canaries, 3-hour flight. Not yet swimming season — but perfect for coastal walks combined with city trip Faro/Lagos.

For photographers: Benagil cave (boat tour or swimming in summer — boat in March), Ponta da Piedade cliffs, Cabo de São Vicente (westernmost point of Europe), empty beaches at sunset. Lagos and Tavira for old town charm. Golfers find off-season prices.

Highlights
Benagil cave, Ponta da Piedade, Lagos old town, Cabo de São Vicente, Tavira, Faro, coastal trail (Via Algarviana)
Photo spots
Benagil (boat tour!), Ponta da Piedade cliffs, Cabo de São Vicente sunset, empty beaches Marinha
Ideal for
Cheap short break, couples, golfers, photographers, families (empty beaches)
March weather
15–20 °C, first sunny days — sea 16–17 °C, rather cool for swimming
Duration
4–7 days — 5 days ideal for west and east Algarve
Budget
€600–1,200/person/week — cheapest sun destination on this list
Equipment
16–35 mm coast + CPL; 70–200 mm for cliff details
Tip
Book Benagil boat tour early — less crowded in March than summer. Combo with Lisbon: 3+4 days. Hire car for cliff spots
15
Culture · Desert

14. Jordan — Petra at perfect temperature

Jordan — Petra Treasury at sunrise in the rock city
Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea — the climate window in March.

March in Jordan: 12–22 °C — ideal for Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. Summer (from June) gets extremely hot; winter can be cold. The climate window for culture and adventure holidays is narrow — March hits it perfectly.

Route Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum → Dead Sea in 7–10 days. Petra Treasury at sunrise (first hour in the morning for empty Siq!), Wadi Rum camp under the stars, Dead Sea floating. Jordan Pass saves entrance fees. For photographers: rock architecture, desert landscape, Bedouin camps.

Highlights
Petra (Treasury, Monastery), Wadi Rum (jeep + camp), Dead Sea, Jerash, Amman citadel, Aqaba (Red Sea)
Photo spots
Petra Treasury sunrise (empty Siq!), Wadi Rum sunset, Dead Sea, Monastery Petra (850 steps!)
Ideal for
Adventurers, photographers, culture fans, 7–10 days — physically fit (Petra = lots of walking)
March weather
12–22 °C — warm during the day, cool evenings in Wadi Rum (jacket!)
Duration
7–10 days — Petra alone deserves 2 full days
Budget
€1,200–2,500/person/week — Jordan Pass around €70–80 (Petra + Jerash included)
Equipment
24–70 mm + wide angle for Petra Siq; tripod for Wadi Rum stars; light jacket for evenings
Tip
Petra: 2-day ticket — first hour in the morning for empty Siq. Wadi Rum: 1 night camp minimum. Buy Jordan Pass online in advance
16
Germany · Close

15. Germany — spring on the doorstep

Germany spring — fruit blossom in Altes Land and Moselle vineyards
Germany: Altes Land, Moselle, Black Forest — spring without flying.

Not every March holiday needs a flight. Short breaks in March in Germany pay off for blossom, first hikes and city trips without jet lag. 5–14 °C, changeable — but fruit blossom, empty hiking trails and affordable accommodation.

Altes Land (Lower Saxony): fruit blossom end of March to mid-April — largest contiguous orchard area in northern Europe. Moselle Valley: first hikes in the vineyards, Burg Eltz, Cochem. Black Forest: waterfalls during snow melt, Triberg, few tourists. Hamburg, Dresden, Rügen as city trip alternatives.

Highlights
Altes Land fruit blossom, Moselle Valley (Burg Eltz, Cochem), Black Forest (Triberg), Hamburg Speicherstadt, Dresden old town, Rügen chalk cliffs
Photo spots
Altes Land blossom avenue, Burg Eltz morning, Triberg waterfalls, Hamburg Speicherstadt blue hour, Rügen chalk cliffs (windy!)
Ideal for
Short breaks, families, couples, budget travellers, photographers — no beach holiday
March weather
5–14 °C, changeable — layers, rain jacket, waterproof shoes
Duration
2–4 days short break — weekend or bridge days
Budget
€200–600/person/week — cheapest destination; car or train from 1–5 h
Equipment
24–70 mm all-rounder; rain cover; CPL for blossom and water
Tip
Altes Land: check blossom status end of March (blossom barometer). More: Hidden gems Northern Germany, Most beautiful vacation spots #11 Moselle, Black Forest #8
17
Short break

Short break in March — 3–4 days from central Europe

The search intent "short break March" is one of the strongest in spring: a long weekend or bridge days between winter and Easter — without weeks in the air. Best combinations by travel time:

DestinationTravel from EUDurationMarch highlightBudget
Amsterdam + KeukenhofFlight/train 1–4 h3–4 daysTulips from mid-March€700–1,400
LisbonFlight ~3 h3–5 daysSun, city, Sintra€600–1,200
Prague / ViennaTrain/flight 4–6 h2–3 daysCulture, coffee houses€500–1,000
Altes LandCar 1–3 h2 daysFruit blossom end of March€200–400
Moselle ValleyCar 3–5 h2–3 daysFirst vineyard hikes€300–600
HamburgTrain 2–4 h2–3 daysSpeicherstadt, harbour€400–800
Black ForestCar 3–6 h3–4 daysWaterfalls, hiking€400–800
AlgarveFlight ~3 h4–5 daysFirst sun, cliffs€600–1,200
RomeFlight ~2 h3–4 daysAntiquity without summer heat€800–1,600
CanariesFlight ~4.5 h5–7 daysSun, Teide€800–1,500

Short break March — quick picks by travel time and budget

18
Guide

Which March destination fits you?

You're looking for …Top pickAlternativeBudget tip
Sun & warmthCanariesMadeira, AlgarveAlgarve
Spring bloomJapan (sakura)Amsterdam/KeukenhofAltes Land (DE)
City tripLisbonRome, AmsterdamLisbon
Culture & desertMarrakeschJordanMarrakesch
Family holidayCanariesMadeira, Thailand (Koh Samui)Algarve
Romance for twoTuscanyMadeira, Moselle ValleyMoselle Valley (DE)
Photography & contentJapanMarrakesch, Sri LankaAndalusia
LuxuryDubaiMadeira boutique
Cheap March holidayAlgarveLisbon, GermanyShort break DE
Short break (3–4 days)AmsterdamLisbon, HamburgAltes Land
Long haulSri LankaThailand, JapanThailand
Hiking & natureMadeiraJordan, Black ForestBlack Forest (DE)

March destinations by trip type — quick decision

19
Easter

Easter holidays — destinations for the break

Easter holidays (depending on region and year, mid-March to late April) are the first travel high season of the year. Flights and hotels rise — if you plan Easter holiday, book 2–3 months ahead.

Easter with children
Canaries, Madeira, Algarve — short flight, sun, activities. Germany: Black Forest, Lake Constance (cool but family-friendly).
Romantic Easter
Tuscany, Moselle Valley, Madeira — little party, lots of atmosphere.
Cultural Easter
Rome (Vatican at Holy Week), Andalusia (Semana Santa in Seville), Jerusalem (globally relevant but complex).
Budget Easter
Lisbon, Algarve, short break Germany — travelling one week before or after school holidays saves 30%+.
Easter photography
Japan (sakura peak often at Easter!), Amsterdam (tulips), Altes Land (fruit blossom) — nature highlights during the break.
20
Practical

Planning — booking, packing & photo gear

When to book?
Japan sakura & Easter holidays: 3–6 months ahead. Canaries/Morocco: 4–8 weeks often enough. Last-minute in March possible outside school holidays.
Flight vs. car
Under 4 hours: car/train (Amsterdam, Prague, Moselle, Altes Land). Over 4 hours: flight. Canaries and Morocco: direct flights from many European airports.
March packing list
Layering: T-shirt + fleece + light jacket. Sun destinations: sunscreen even at 20 °C. Europe: umbrella. Hiking: waterproof shoes. Details: Photography travel packing list.
Photo gear
Spring: wide angle for blossom, 70–200 mm for details. Polarising filter for water and sky. Japan: light setup — lots of walking. More: Best travel camera, Camera backpack test.
Travel insurance
For long haul (Japan, Sri Lanka) check international health cover. Cancellation insurance sensible for Easter bookings.
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21
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about March destinations

Where to travel in March for sun?
Canaries (Tenerife), Madeira, Marrakesch, Algarve, Dubai, Sri Lanka and Thailand offer reliable sun and pleasant temperatures in March. Cheapest sun options from central Europe: Algarve and Canary package deals.
What are the best destinations in March?
Depends on goal: Japan for cherry blossom, Canaries for beach sun, Andalusia for culture, Amsterdam for tulips, Lisbon for cheap city trip, Jordan for Petra at ideal temperature. All 15 destinations in this guide in detail.
Where is it warm in Europe in March?
Warmest in Europe: Canaries (18–24 °C), Algarve and Andalusia (15–22 °C), Madeira (16–20 °C). Marrakesch is geographically in Africa but reachable from Europe in 4 hours (15–25 °C).
Is a holiday in March worth it?
Yes — March is off-season before Easter with lower prices, fewer tourists and spectacular natural events (sakura, tulips, fruit blossom). Weather in Germany is changeable; a planned March trip south or to the blossom is almost always worth it.
Where to travel cheaply in March?
Cheap March destinations: Lisbon, Algarve, short break in Germany (Altes Land, Moselle), Amsterdam with early-booker flight. Canary package deals in March often under €500.
Which city trip in March?
Lisbon, Rome, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Dresden, Vienna and Prague suit city trips in March — milder than January, cheaper than summer, museums without crowds.
Where to go with children in March?
Family-friendly: Canaries (short flight, sun), Madeira (nature), Algarve (beaches), Black Forest and Lake Constance in Germany. Japan with children possible but long and expensive.
When is cherry blossom in Japan?
Typically last week of March to mid-April in Tokyo and Kyoto — weather dependent, 1–2 weeks shift each year. Check bloom forecast shortly before travel.
When does Keukenhof open?
Keukenhof near Amsterdam usually opens mid-March to mid-May. Peak tulip bloom: late March to April. Weekdays less crowded than weekends.
Easter holiday — where in March/April?
Popular: Canaries, Madeira, Rome (Holy Week), Andalusia (Semana Santa), Algarve. Cheaper: travel one week before or after school holidays. Germany: Black Forest, Moselle, Altes Land.
Where can you swim in March?
In the sea: Canaries, Cape Verde, Sri Lanka, Thailand (south), Dubai — water 20–28 °C, swimmable for hardy types. Europe: Algarve and Andalusia rather cool (15–18 °C). Hotel pools on the Canaries and in Marrakesch warm enough year-round.
Which long-haul trip is worth it in March?
Japan (sakura), Sri Lanka (dry season), Thailand (dry season), Jordan (Petra temperature), Dubai (before the heat). March is ideal for long-haul destinations that are too hot or too wet in summer.
March holiday without flying — where?
Altes Land (fruit blossom), Moselle Valley, Black Forest, Hamburg, Dresden, Rügen off-season, Prague and Vienna by train. All under 6 hours from most central European cities.
Couples' holiday in March — what do you recommend?
Romance: Tuscany, Madeira, Moselle Valley, Marrakesch. Sun for two: Canaries, Algarve. Special experience: Japan sakura or Jordan Petra. Affordable and atmospheric: Lisbon or Amsterdam.
Is March a good travel time for Europe?
Yes — especially for southern Europe (Andalusia, Portugal, Italy), Holland (tulips) and cities (Rome, Lisbon). No summer heat yet, no July crowds, lower prices. Northern Europe and Scandinavia still cold in March (3–10 °C).
March or April — which is better?
March: cheaper, less crowded, sakura starts end of March. April: full bloom (Japan, Holland, Altes Land), warmer in southern Europe, but Easter holidays drive prices. Book flexibly if blossom is your goal.
Which March destination is best for beginner photographers?
Madeira and Marrakesch — short flight, strong subjects, manageable. Amsterdam for blossom. Lisbon for city. Japan and Sri Lanka for ambitious photographers with more gear and planning.
Transparency notice: This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is unaffected.
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