As Europe emerges from the long, gloomy days of the winter season the cities come to life with a vibrant spring atmosphere.
The temperatures are mild and mostly sunny in March in Northern Europe. In the south the weather is warm and the sun can get hot enough for the occasional beach day.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious city break or hoping to visit nearby nature spots, March is the perfect time to travel. There are less tourists around and the prices of travel are much cheaper than in the summer months.
Each of these European cities has something unique to offer.
Florence, Italy
Spring is mild and sunny in Italy, and the city comes to life as everyone gathers to enjoy the sun after a long, gloomy winter. Another perk? The city sees fewer tourists visiting in March.
Florence is a charming and quintessentially-Italian city. You can’t miss the magnificent Florence Cathedral, whose red brick domes tower over the city.
March is the month where the Florentia New Year is celebrated, so there is a lively energy in the city. It’s also the best time to visit the Boboli Gardens just behind the Pitti Palace.
Enjoy the weather with a stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets and wander over the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge that stretches over the Arno River.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is often still chilly in March, the city hasn’t fully emerged from its sleepy winter atmosphere. For travelers seeking a romantic winter escape or a tranquil getaway, this is the perfect city.
Quaint and charming, the city is riddled with green spaces and has a small-town feel to it. Walk over the Dragon Bridge and spend an afternoon wandering around Congress Square and the surrounding streets.
In March the city comes to life with the LUV Fest celebrations that run from early February till the middle of March. The city hosts various cultural events that aim to celebrate Slovenian heritage.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
There is the occasional cloudy day in Croatia in March, but in general the weather is mild. Pack some jumpers for the days where there’s a cool gust.
March is a great time of the year to visit Dubrovnik as there aren’t as many cruise ships landing on the city’s shores.
The city dates back as far as the 7th century. Because of this there are different architectural styles throughout the city, although the most impressive is all the well-preserved medieval architecture.
In March the Dubrovnik Cathedral comes alive with Easter celebrations. There are processions, choirs, and art displays. Even if you aren’t religious it’s a remarkable cultural event.
After, learn about the local heritage at the annual Croatian Culture Week events held throughout the city.
Kotor, Montenegro
The weather in Montenegro in March is mild and steady, with not too much rainfall. It can get chilly during the night, but the daytime is mostly sunny and warm.
If you arrive in the first few days of March you’ll catch the last colorful processions that take place around the city as part of the Kotor Carnival! On the final day of the celebrations, the 3rd of March, there is a big concert in the Arms Square.
For panoramic views of the affair follow the Ladder of Kotor up some 1,350 stone steps that lead you to John’s Fortress.
Valencia, Spain
March is the perfect month to visit this coastal city in Spain. Skip the crowds of tourists and the scorching summer temperatures and enjoy the sunny days and fresh evenings that are characteristic of spring.
During March the famous Fallas of Valencia festival takes place. From the 1st to the 19th of March large ninots are paraded around the city. Each sculpture has a satirical twist that reflects the sense of humour of the city’s inhabitants.
Each day of the festival the ground shakes as the Mascletas (gunpowder fireworks) are set off around midday. The city’s colorful parades and fiestas culminate with the burning of the giant ninots on the last day.
Paris, France
Cool and sunny, March in Paris lends itself to long walks around this romantic city. Stroll along the banks of the river Seine and admire the elegant and extravagant renaissance buildings that line the avenues on either side of the river.
On St. Patrick’s Day the city comes alive with parades and live music events. For the best experience of the night, book yourself in at the Moulin Rouge!
March is also when the legendary Paris Fashion Week takes place. But that’s not all. Carnival festivities are held throughout the month in the lead up to Mardi Gras.
Gothenburg, Sweden
Cold and chilly, the weather in Gothenburg in March is still fairly wintery. You might even get some snow! Pack your winter layers for a city break in Gothenburg.
On a sunny day, don’t miss out on a stroll around the old district of Haga. The neighbourhood is riddled with 19th century wooden houses and craft shops. Hop on the blue and white trams that wind through the city’s charming streets from one attraction to the next.
March is the best time of year to explore the Gothenburg Botanical Gardens or take a boat tour of the Gothenburg Archipelago that is made up of thousands of little islands and islets.
London, England
Chilly but mostly dry, March in London marks the end of the harsh winter season. Spring in London is vibrant and mild, but you’ll still want to bring your thick layers and waterproofs just in case.
The biggest event of the month is St. Patrick’s Day. The city’s Irish community take to the streets and everyone joins in the music, dancing, and drinking. Knocking back a few pints of Guinness will be required!
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle with a morning at Kew Gardens. In early spring bright yellow daffodils and bright pink cherry blossoms brighten up the gardens.
Hamburg, Germany
Still cool and winter-like, the weather in Hamburg in March can be fairly cold. But the lack of crowds and enchanting city make up for the colder temperatures.
Built on the banks of the River Elbe, Hamburg’s distinctive red-brick buildings are incredibly charming.
In March the city celebrates the largest of its Hamburger Dom fairs. Featuring rides, food stalls, and plenty of music and drinking.
As the weather starts to warm up the city’s outdoor spots entice visitors with blooming flowers and scenic walks. Head to the Alster Lakes where you can go on a stroll or even rent a guided paddle boat tour.
Porto, Portugal
The city is blessed with mild to cool temperatures in March. Luckily even on chillier days the sun tends to be shining.
Colorful and vibrant, Porto is a picturesque city built on the banks of the Douro River. If you want to enjoy the early spring sun, head for a beer along the riverside. The walkway has lots of bars with gorgeously tiled facades.
A popular thing to do in March is take a tour of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon just outside the city. There are quaint fishing villages along the way where you can sample local seafood dishes.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
With cool days and especially chilly nights, Sarajevo still has an enchanting winter atmosphere in March but with less chance of rain and milder temperatures.
March is an ideal time to go hiking in the mountains surrounding the city, like the route up to the Umoljani village whose customs haven’t changed for centuries.
It’s also in March that the annual International Festival Sarajevo Winter takes place. It runs till the 21st of the month and sees the city come alive with art and culture events. Artists from all over the world travel to Sarajevo for the event and there is a unique theme each year.
Antwerp, Belgium
Cool and breezy, the weather in Antwerp in March is warmer than in winter but still relatively cold compared to other European cities. If you pack warm layers you can enjoy the city before the crowds of tourists start to arrive later in the year.
March is the best time of year to visit the stunning Antwerp Botanical Gardens that come alive with vibrant blooming flowers and budding plants. It’s also a popular month to go on a boat tour of the city’s busy port.
Make the most of the month’s dry days with a stroll through the medieval old town of the city, which culminates in the classic Grote Markt square.
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