Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in March for Perfect Spring Getaways

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As March rolls in with its mild weather and the promise of spring, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags and explore new destinations. The best countries to visit in March are those where you can witness the season’s transformation.

These places offer not only spectacular natural beauty but also unique cultural experiences that are far less crowded than in peak tourist seasons. This guide will walk you through ten countries where March is a magic window of opportunity for travellers looking for both adventure and relaxation.

Top 10 Beautiful Places to Visit in March This Spring 

March marks the arrival of spring, making it the perfect time to explore some of the world’s most stunning destinations. From blooming landscapes to vibrant cities, this list highlights the top 10 beautiful places that come alive with colour and culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, these spots offer the perfect spring getaway!

1. Japan

March is the beginning of spring in Japan, making it one of the most beautiful times to visit. The cherry blossoms, known as sakura, start blooming, and the country becomes a spectacle of pink and white flowers. Mild weather, clear skies, and a festive atmosphere make March the perfect time to explore Japan’s rich cultural heritage. With fewer crowds compared to peak tourist season, visitors can enjoy traditional festivals, historic landmarks, and the beauty of Japanese gardens in full bloom.

Things to Do:

Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami) in Tokyo or Kyoto: Enjoy picnics under blooming sakura trees in famous spots like Shinjuku Gyoen and Maruyama Park.

Visit Kyoto’s Temples: Explore historic temples like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari in peaceful spring surroundings.

Attend Spring Festivals: Participate in the Nagoya Castle Spring Festival or the Plum Blossom Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto.

Relax in an Onsen: Unwind in traditional hot springs, especially in Hakone or Beppu, with views of nature transitioning to spring.

2. Italy

March marks the start of spring in Italy, with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months. It’s an ideal time to explore the country’s historical cities, rolling countryside, and coastline. The temperatures are mild, allowing for comfortable sightseeing. Whether you want to wander through art-filled museums, enjoy Italy’s

famous cuisine, or take scenic countryside walks, March offers a relaxed and refreshing travel experience.

Things to Do:

Explore Rome’s Historical Sites: Visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon without the summer crowds.

Discover Tuscany’s Countryside: Enjoy a drive through vineyards, olive groves, and charming towns like Siena and San Gimignano.

Take a Gondola Ride in Venice: Experience the canals of Venice during a quieter time of year with fewer tourists.

Visit the Amalfi Coast: While not as crowded as in summer, you can still enjoy the stunning coastal views and visit picturesque towns like Positano.

3. Morocco

In March, Morocco begins to emerge from the winter chill, offering pleasant temperatures and sunny days, making it perfect for exploring its vibrant cities and desert landscapes. The country’s diverse scenery includes bustling medinas, stunning beaches, and the towering Atlas Mountains. Morocco’s unique blend of Arab, Berber, and French influences make it a culturally rich destination. Springtime also brings the blooming of wildflowers in the countryside, adding to the beauty of the landscapes.

Things to Do:

Explore Marrakech’s Medina: Wander through the souks, visit the stunning Bahia Palace, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.

Hike in the Atlas Mountains: Enjoy scenic treks through Berber villages, with the snow-capped peaks of Mount Toubkal in the distance.

Camp in the Sahara Desert: Take a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, spend a night in a desert camp, and watch the sunrise over the sand.

Visit Chefchaouen: Discover the picturesque blue city, famous for its painted streets, nestled in the Rif Mountains.

4. Spain

March is a wonderful time to visit Spain, with spring beginning to bring warmer weather and blooming flowers across the country. The cities are lively but not overcrowded, and the countryside is vibrant with fresh greenery. Spain’s cultural richness is on full display, from historic sites to its famous cuisine and local festivals. Whether you’re exploring the architectural wonders of Barcelona or enjoying the vibrant energy of Seville, March provides the perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Things to Do:

Discover Barcelona’s Gaudi Architecture: Visit La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló to see Gaudi’s unique creations.

Enjoy Seville’s Orange Blossoms: Stroll through the city’s historic streets, and visit the Alcazar and Seville Cathedral while enjoying the scent of blooming orange trees.

Hike in the Sierra Nevada Mountains: Explore trails offering views of snow-capped peaks and green valleys as the weather warms.

Attend Las Fallas Festival in Valencia: Experience the spectacle of giant effigies, fireworks, and parades during this famous spring festival.

5. Portugal

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March is an ideal time to visit Portugal, with spring in full swing and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The weather is mild, particularly in the Algarve and Lisbon, making it a great time for exploring the country’s historic cities and stunning coastlines. The blooming flowers and lush landscapes add to the country’s charm. Portugal’s rich culture, from its cuisine to its historic landmarks, offers a blend of relaxation and discovery for every traveller.

Things to Do:

Explore Lisbon’s Historic Neighbourhoods: Wander through Alfama, visit São Jorge Castle, and enjoy panoramic views from Miradouros.

Discover Porto’s Wine Cellars: Take a tour of the city’s famous Port wine cellars, and enjoy tastings along the scenic Douro River.

Hike in the Algarve: Explore the cliffs and beaches of the Algarve region, particularly along the Rota Vicentina trail.

Visit Sintra: Explore the fairytale-like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, surrounded by lush, green hills.

6. Greece

March in Greece is the start of spring, offering mild weather and fewer tourists. This is the perfect time to explore the country’s iconic historical sites, island landscapes, and picturesque villages. With the blooming of flowers and greenery, Greece takes on a fresh, vibrant charm, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. The islands are quieter, and the mainland’s archaeological wonders can be explored in a more peaceful setting.

Thing to Do:

Visit Athens’ Ancient Landmarks: Explore the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora in mild spring weather.

Island Hopping: Take a ferry to islands like Santorini, Mykonos, or Crete, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before the summer rush.

Hike Mount Olympus: For adventure seekers, hiking Greece’s highest mountain is an unforgettable experience in March’s cooler climate.

Relax in Nafplio: Wander through this charming coastal town, known for its Venetian architecture and nearby ruins like the Palamidi Fortress.

6. Netherlands

March is the beginning of tulip season in the Netherlands, making it a magical time to visit. The weather is still cool, but the fields of blooming tulips and daffodils create a vibrant and colourful landscape. The cities, like Amsterdam, are alive with culture, from world-class museums to charming canal-side streets. With fewer tourists compared to peak summer months, visitors can enjoy the country’s beauty and cultural richness at a relaxed pace.

Things to Do:

Visit the Keukenhof Gardens: Famous for its tulip displays, this garden is a must-see in March when the flowers begin to bloom.

Explore Amsterdam’s Museums: Visit the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House without the summer crowds.

Take a Canal Cruise: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Amsterdam’s iconic canals, lined with historic buildings and springtime blossoms.

Cycle Through the Countryside: Rent a bike and explore the Netherlands’ scenic countryside, passing by windmills and tulip fields.

8. Turkey

March is a fantastic time to visit Turkey, with the beginning of spring bringing mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. The cities are less crowded, and the weather is ideal for exploring the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveller.

Things to Do:

Explore Istanbul’s Historical Sites: Visit the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace without the summer crowds.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia: Soar over the unique rock formations and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia at sunrise.

Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools: Relax in the natural travertine terraces and hot springs of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit Ephesus: Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the Temple of Artemis and the Great Theatre.

9. France

March in France brings the first signs of spring, with blossoming trees and warming temperatures. The cities, particularly Paris, are less crowded, making it an excellent time to visit the country’s cultural and historical landmarks. From strolling through Paris’s parks to exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux, France in March is full of charm and beauty.

Things to Do:

Visit the Eiffel Tower: Enjoy Paris’s iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, with fewer tourists.

Explore the Loire Valley: Visit the region’s stunning châteaux, like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, as the gardens begin to bloom.

Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: Take a wine tour in Bordeaux, exploring some of the world’s most famous vineyards.

Stroll Through Montmartre: Wander the cobbled streets of this historic Paris neighbourhood, famous for its artistic heritage, charming cafés, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. As spring approaches, Montmartre becomes even more picturesque with blooming flowers and fewer crowds.

10. Egypt

March is an ideal time to visit Egypt, as the weather is warm but not overwhelmingly hot, making it perfect for exploring ancient monuments and the bustling cities. The crowds are lighter compared to the peak tourist months, allowing for a more relaxed experience of Egypt’s incredible historical and cultural sites. From the pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor, Egypt offers a journey into one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

Things to Do:

Visit the Pyramids of Giza: Explore the iconic Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and surrounding tombs in cooler, more comfortable temperatures.

Cruise the Nile River: Take a traditional felucca or a luxury cruise from Aswan to Luxor, passing ancient temples and lush landscapes along the river.

Explore the Temples of Luxor and Karnak: Wander through these magnificent ancient sites, discovering the intricate carvings and towering columns.

Dive in the Red Sea: Head to Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada for world-class diving and snorkelling in the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea.

Exploring these ten incredible destinations in March offers more than just a seasonal escape; it’s an opportunity to experience stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the refreshing renewal that spring brings to each location. Whether you’re looking to wander through blooming gardens, explore ancient ruins, or bask in the vibrant energy of bustling cities, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences during one of the most pleasant times of the year.

To make your journey truly seamless, consider planning with Thomas Cook. With their expertise in crafting personalised travel packages, you can leave the logistics to the professionals and focus solely on enjoying your adventure. From flights and accommodation to guided tours and exclusive experiences, Thomas Cook ensures every detail is taken care of, so you can create lasting memories without the hassle. Start your perfect spring getaway today!