March is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and embrace the arrival of spring or a great last chance to chase the last of the season’s snow. Whether you’re looking for mild weather down under in Australia, sun-drenched beaches in Los Angeles or cultural festivals in Europe and North Africa, this month offers a diverse range of travel opportunities. From warm weather escapes to scenic winter retreats, here are 10 beautiful vacation ideas and places to visit in March.
March marks the beginning of cherry blossom season in Kyoto, with delicate pink flowers blooming across the city’s historic temples and gardens. Popular viewing spots like Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path start to come alive with hanami (flower-viewing) celebrations. The mild temperatures make exploring Kyoto’s shrines, bamboo forests and tea houses especially pleasant. Clint Henderson, managing editor at The Points Guy says, “I love Japan in the winter and just before cherry blossom season is the perfect time to visit before the crowds arrive. The strong US dollar makes a vacation here a good bargain, especially outside Tokyo.”
Consider staying at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto for a luxurious riverside retreat or Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion for a stylish stay near the historic district.
For those seeking sunshine without the summer crowds, March is an ideal time to visit Los Angeles. With daytime highs in the 70s, you can soak up the sun at Venice Beach, hike to the Hollywood sign or explore the art scene in downtown LA. March also brings exciting events like the Los Angeles Marathon and food festivals showcasing the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
Stay at The Beverly Hills Hotel for classic Hollywood glamour or The Proper Hotel for a chic, modern stay in downtown LA.
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As Australia transitions from summer to autumn, Sydney enjoys warm temperatures and fewer tourists. Bondi Beach remains a great spot for a swim, while the city’s vibrant nightlife and world-class restaurants continue to impress. March is also a fantastic time to visit the Blue Mountains or take a coastal road trip to the scenic South Coast.
Riley Shelby, a San Francisco-based country counter and United Airlines Premier 1K member says, “If you crave warmer weather, head down under to Melbourne or Sydney, Australia and catch the last of their summer heat.”
Henderson agrees. “March is also a wonderful time to visit Australia where it’s still summer. … Perth and Brisbane have new flights that can be a bargain compared to Sydney.”
Consider booking a stay at the Park Hyatt Sydney for stunning views of the Opera House or The Old Clare Hotel for a trendy, boutique experience.
Dublin, Ireland
March in Dublin means one thing: St. Patrick’s Day. The Irish capital comes alive with parades, live music and a lively atmosphere in Temple Bar. Beyond the festivities, you can explore historic sites like Trinity College, stroll along the River Liffey or take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher.
Stay at The Merrion for a luxury experience or The Dean Dublin for a stylish, contemporary vibe.
Whistler offers some of the best late-season skiing in North America for those still craving winter sports. March brings longer days and milder temperatures. That’s a great combination for hitting the slopes. Scott Mayerowitz, travel expert and founder of GlobeTrotScott Strategies, says that this year, in particular, has been a great season with ample snowfall.
Shelby agrees. “March is ideal for savoring the tail end of winter, where early spring skiing usually offers reliable snow without slushy slopes.” Off the mountain, après-ski options range from cozy fireside lounges to lively bars in Whistler Village. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers ski-in/ski-out luxury, while Nita Lake Lodge provides a peaceful lakeside retreat.
March is one of the best times to visit Morocco, as the weather is warm but not scorching. Explore the bustling souks of Marrakech, take a camel ride in the Sahara Desert or visit the stunning blue city of Chefchaouen. This time of year is also perfect for hiking in the Atlas Mountains. Henderson says, “The weather in Morocco in March is fabulous and a strong US dollar makes it a deal. There is a luxury hotel boom underway and the high-speed rail makes getting around a fun way to see the country. I took it from Casablanca to Tangier, which is a charming city I can’t wait to get back to.”
Book a stay at the Royal Mansour Marrakech for opulent luxury or Riad Yasmine for a charming, boutique experience.
The US capital begins to bloom in March with the arrival of cherry blossoms. The National Cherry Blossom Festival starts late in the month and celebrates the stunning pink and white trees around the Tidal Basin. Take advantage of the pleasant spring weather to explore historic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian Museums.
Stay at The Hay-Adams for breathtaking views of the White House or The Line DC for a trendy, boutique stay in Adams Morgan.
March is a great time to visit the Amalfi Coast before the summer crowds arrive. The weather is cool but comfortable, perfect for exploring charming towns like Positano and Ravello. Coastal hikes, fresh seafood and breathtaking cliffside views make this a stunning springtime getaway.
Consider staying at Le Sirenuse for five-star luxury or Hotel Marincanto for an intimate boutique experience.
As summer comes to an end in the Southern Hemisphere, March is one of the best months to visit Patagonia. The landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park are still lush, and the trails are less crowded than in peak season. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot guanacos, condors and even pumas.
Stay at Explora Patagonia for an immersive adventure experience or EcoCamp Patagonia for a sustainable, eco-friendly retreat.
Phuket, Thailand
March is the tail end of Phuket’s dry season, meaning you’ll get warm weather and little rain. Enjoy the island’s famous beaches, take a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands or explore the cultural sights of Old Phuket Town. With fewer crowds than the peak months of January and February, it’s an excellent time to visit.
Stay at Amanpuri for a luxurious beachfront escape or The Slate for a stylish, design-forward resort experience.
For this article, we consulted the following travel experts for their personal insights.
At CNN Underscored, we bring you expertly curated travel recommendations backed by thorough research, firsthand experience and insights from seasoned travel experts. Our team of editors and contributors rigorously vet each destination by considering factors like seasonal trends, affordability and overall travel experience. For this guide, we consulted industry professionals, including airline elite status holders, travel strategists and destination experts to ensure you get the most informed and practical advice.
