Best Travel Destinations March | Updated

Looking for the best travel destinations in March? My top picks are:

1. Kyoto, Japan: For a magical transition from plum to early cherry blossoms.
2. Mendoza, Argentina: To celebrate the world-class autumn grape harvest.
3. Costa Rica: For peak sunshine, adventure, and abundant wildlife.
4. Egypt: To explore ancient wonders in perfect weather with fewer crowds.
5. Portugal: To catch the first mild days of a European spring on a budget.

But knowing where to go is only half the battle. March is a month of trade-offs, where the best weather can bring the biggest crowds and a once-in-a-lifetime festival can mean peak prices. Read on to learn the secrets of timing your trip perfectly, avoiding the crowds, and unlocking the best possible value.

March Travel at a Glance: Our Top Picks for 2026

To get you started, here is a high-level look at our top destinations for March. Use this table to find the vibe that best matches your travel style, then dive into the detailed deep-dive sections that follow.

The Best Destinations for March in Detail

Now, let’s explore what makes each of these places so special in March.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto in March is a city in beautiful anticipation. The sharp cold of winter has subsided, but the feverish energy of peak cherry blossom season has yet to arrive. This creates a magical atmosphere where you can experience two distinct floral seasons in a single month.

Why March is Magical: From Plums to Early Sakura

March in Kyoto is a story of two blossoms. The first half is dominated by the delicate plum blossoms (ume), the first true sign of spring. Celebrated with quiet reverence, they draw smaller, local crowds, allowing for a serene experience at places like the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, with its thousand-plus plum trees.

By the last week of March, the first buds of the iconic cherry blossoms (sakura) begin to open. Witnessing the first blooms along the Philosopher’s Path or in Maruyama Park before the massive April crowds descend is a truly special experience, offering a glimpse of the magic without the peak-season crush.

Weather, Crowds & Costs: A Practical Guide

• Weather: Expect crisp, cool weather (4-13°C / 39-56°F), perfect for walking. Dress in layers with a warm coat for the cooler mornings and evenings, especially in early March.
• Crowds: The first three weeks of March are wonderfully uncrowded. However, expect a dramatic shift in the last week when the cherry blossoms emerge, drawing large crowds to popular sites.
• Costs: Costs are moderate for most of the month but surge by 50-100% in the last week. If you want to see the first cherry blossoms, book accommodation 6 to 12 months in advance.

Key March Festivals & Events

• Higashiyama Hanatouro (Early to Mid-March): For ten days, thousands of lanterns illuminate a 5km route through the historic Higashiyama district, creating an enchanting wonderland. Many temples extend their hours for special nighttime viewings.
• Hina Matsuri (Girl’s Day – March 3rd): This festival celebrates girls’ health and happiness. At Shimogamo Shrine, you can see the Nagashibina ceremony, where dolls are floated down the river in paper boats.
• Geisha Dances (Late March): March marks the beginning of the annual spring dance performances by Kyoto’s five geisha districts, a rare and authentic opportunity to witness the refined arts of the geiko and maiko.

Itinerary Example:

A perfect three-day trip involves balancing iconic sights with seasonal beauty. Dedicate time to the plum blossoms at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and the enchanting Higashiyama Hanatouro lantern festival. Get an early start (by 7:30 am) to experience the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and hike the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds arrive. In the afternoons, explore Nishiki Market and the preserved streets of the Gion district.

What to Pack

Layers are key. You’ll need a warm coat for early March, swapped for a lighter jacket later in the month. A fleece or warm sweaters are essential. Most importantly, bring comfortable, waterproof walking shoes and an umbrella.

Mendoza, Argentina

March is when Mendoza, the heart of Argentina’s wine country, buzzes with the energy of the grape harvest. The sun-drenched days of summer give way to the crisp, golden light of autumn, and the air is filled with a palpable sense of celebration. A trip here is an immersion into the soul of South American wine culture.

Why March is Unmissable: The Vendimia Festival

The single greatest reason to visit is the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (National Grape Harvest Festival), a spectacular, week-long celebration that culminates in the first weekend of the month. It’s one of the world’s great harvest festivals, featuring parades of floats and gauchos (Vía Blanca and Carrusel) and culminating in the Acto Central—a stunning spectacle of light, music, and dance in a massive outdoor amphitheater.

Weather, Crowds & Costs: Navigating Harvest Season

• Weather: March weather is perfect: warm, sunny days around 27°C (81°F) followed by cool, crisp evenings around 14°C (58°F).
• Crowds & Costs: The Vendimia festival makes early March the absolute peak season for Mendoza. The city is packed, and prices are at their highest. You must book everything several months (if not a year) in advance. For fewer crowds and lower costs, visit in the second half of March; the harvest is still in full swing, and the weather remains beautiful.
• Safety: Mendoza is generally safe, but be aware of your surroundings in crowded festival areas to avoid petty theft.

Beyond the Vineyards: Andes Adventures & City Life

March’s mild weather is ideal for exploring the breathtaking landscapes. Take a day trip into the Andes to visit Aconcagua Provincial Park, home to the highest peak in the Americas. For a thrill, go white-water rafting on the Mendoza River or arrange a horseback ride with local gauchos. The city of Mendoza itself is beautiful and green, with a fantastic culinary scene renowned for its steak (parrillas).

Itinerary Example:

A balanced itinerary should include the Vendimia festivities, world-class wineries, and the majesty of the Andes. Spend a day immersed in the festival’s Carrusel parade and Acto Central (book tickets far in advance). Dedicate another day to wine tasting in the premier regions of the Uco Valley or Luján de Cuyo (book tastings in advance). Finally, take a full-day road trip into the Andes to see the staggering views at Aconcagua Provincial Park.

What to Pack

Bring layers: t-shirts for warm days and a sweater or light jacket for cool evenings. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is non-negotiable. If you plan on outdoor activities, bring sturdy shoes.

Costa Rica

March in Costa Rica is the country at its most vibrant. It’s the absolute peak of the dry season, a time of endless sunshine and optimal conditions for adventure. This is the Costa Rica you’ve seen in pictures: lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, pristine beaches, and volcanic landscapes unobscured by clouds.

Why March is Prime Time: Sunshine and Wildlife

The weather is the primary reason to visit. On the popular Pacific coast and in central regions, rain is a rarity. This has a wonderful side effect for wildlife enthusiasts: as water sources dry up, animals congregate around the remaining rivers, making them easier to spot. March is also the heart of the mating season for the magnificent Resplendent Quetzal in the cloud forests of Monteverde and a prime month for spotting migrating humpback whales off the Pacific coast.

Weather, Crowds & Costs: Maximizing the Dry Season

• Weather: Expect hot, sunny, and humid conditions, especially along the coasts where highs can hit 30-37°C (86-96°F). The Central Valley is more temperate.
• Crowds & Costs: This is high season, made busier by North American Spring Break. If Easter week (Semana Santa) falls in March, tourism peaks. National parks will be crowded, and hotels will be full. It is essential to book flights, cars, and accommodation several months in advance to avoid the highest prices.
• Safety: The main concerns are petty crime and road safety. Keep valuables out of sight in rental cars. Avoid driving at night if possible.

Essential March Experiences: Cloud Forests to Coastlines

March offers clear views of the iconic Arenal Volcano, and the nearby town of La Fortuna is the country’s adventure capital. Hike across lava fields, walk the Mistico Hanging Bridges, and soak in natural hot springs. The cooler Monteverde Cloud Forest offers an escape from the heat, with famous suspension bridges and the best chance to spot the Resplendent Quetzal. For a classic sun-and-sand vacation, Manuel Antonio National Park blends stunning beaches with rainforest trails where you’re almost guaranteed to see sloths and monkeys.

Itinerary Example:

A classic week-long adventure starts in La Fortuna for views of Arenal Volcano and hot springs. From there, travel to Monteverde for cloud forest hikes and hanging bridges. Finish on the Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio National Park for a mix of wildlife spotting, beach relaxation, and surfing.

What to Pack

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sturdy hiking shoes. A very light rain jacket is a good idea for the cloud forests. The sun is intense, so high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable. Don’t forget insect repellent.

Egypt

For the savvy traveler, March is one of the best times to visit Egypt. This shoulder season sweet spot sits perfectly between the crowded winter peak and the sweltering summer heat. The weather is sublime—cool enough for comfortable, full-day explorations of the monumental temples and tombs that line the Nile.

Why March is the Smart Choice: The Perfect Shoulder Season

The primary advantage is the balance of conditions. The large tour groups of winter have begun to dissipate, yet the temperatures remain pleasantly warm. This means you can stand before the Pyramids of Giza or wander through the sprawling Karnak Temple complex in relative comfort, soaking in the history without the dual pressures of massive crowds and scorching sun.

Weather, Crowds & Costs: Ideal Conditions for Exploration

• Weather: Expect delightful weather, with highs of 23-27°C (73-81°F) in Cairo and warmer temperatures further south in Luxor and Aswan. The Red Sea coast is idyllic for swimming. Rain is practically unheard of.
• Crowds & Costs: Crowd levels noticeably decrease from their winter peak, particularly in the second half of the month. Consequently, prices for flights and hotels begin to fall, offering excellent value.
• Ramadan: Ramadan is expected to begin around March 1st, 2026. This offers a unique cultural experience. Tourist sites remain open, and while life is quieter during the day, the streets come alive with a festive atmosphere after sunset.

Must-Do in March: Nile Cruising and Red Sea Diving

A Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan is the quintessential Egyptian journey, and March is the perfect time for it. The weather is ideal for lounging on the sundeck and for daily excursions to temples like Edfu and Kom Ombo. For a coastal escape, the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer idyllic conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving in their world-famous coral reefs.

Itinerary Example:

A classic 11-day trip starts in Cairo with the Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum. Follow this with a 4-night Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, covering the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, and other major temples. Be sure to include an early morning excursion to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel. Conclude your trip by flying to a Red Sea resort like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh for a few days of beach relaxation and snorkeling.

What to Pack

Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful. A light jacket is essential for cool evenings. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are a must for dusty archaeological sites. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Portugal

March in Portugal is a secret that seasoned travelers cherish. While much of Europe is still shaking off winter, Portugal awakens into a mild, colorful spring. This is the time to crave a European escape without the summer crowds or price tags. The weather is perfect for exploring the charismatic streets of Lisbon and the dramatic Algarve coast in peaceful solitude.

Why March is a Hidden Gem: Mild Weather and Lower Prices

The two biggest advantages are the pleasant weather and low-season value. The climate is mild and ideal for sightseeing that would be too strenuous in the summer heat. This is your chance to experience Portugal before the tourist season kicks in. You can wander through UNESCO sites without the crowds, which is paired with fantastic prices; hotel rates can be 30-40% lower than in summer.

Weather, Crowds & Costs: The Budget-Friendly Sweet Spot

• Weather: The weather is a “changeable spring.” The southern Algarve region is warmest, with highs of 19°C (66°F). Lisbon is slightly cooler at 18°C (64°F). Porto is cooler still and has the highest chance of rain.
• Crowds & Costs: March is firmly in the low season. Attractions are blissfully crowd-free, making it the best time for a budget-conscious traveler to find deals on flights and hotels.
• Safety: Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe. Just be mindful of pickpockets on crowded public transport in Lisbon and Porto.

City, Coast, and Countryside: Where to Go in March

Lisbon is the best all-around choice for a March trip, as it’s warmer and drier than Porto. The mild temperatures are perfect for getting lost in the cobbled streets of the Alfama district. While the ocean is too cold for swimming, the Algarve coast is stunning for hiking dramatic coastal trails. The fairytale town of Sintra, a must-do day trip from Lisbon, is magical without the suffocating summer crowds.

Itinerary Example:

For a week, base yourself in Lisbon for three days to explore its historic neighborhoods, ride Tram 28, and enjoy a Fado music performance. Take a day trip to Sintra to see Quinta da Regaleira and Pena Palace. Then, spend two days on the Algarve coast, basing yourself in a town like Lagos to take a boat tour of the Benagil Cave and hike the beautiful cliffs.

What to Pack

Versatility and layers are key. You’ll need a mix of t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and a sweater or fleece. A waterproof jacket is essential. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are an absolute must for the cobbled streets.

Interest-Based Travel Guides for March

For those traveling with a specific goal in mind, here are our top recommendations.

• Sun-Seekers & Beach Lovers: Costa Rica, Egypt (Red Sea)
• Budget Travelers: Portugal, Egypt
• Avoiding the Crowds: Portugal, Kyoto (first 3 weeks)
• Cultural Festivals & Events: Mendoza (Vendimia), Kyoto (Hanatouro)
• Adventure & Nature: Costa Rica, Patagonia
• Families with Children: Costa Rica, Egypt (Nile Cruise)

Essential Travel Planning & Resources

A little planning goes a long way in making your March trip seamless.

Booking Your March Getaway

Timing is crucial. Book far in advance (6-9 months) for destinations in peak season like Mendoza (Vendimia), Costa Rica, and late-March Kyoto (cherry blossoms). For low-season destinations like Portugal and Egypt, you may find last-minute deals.

Insider Tips for March Travel

• Pack in Layers: This is the universal rule for March.
• Check Local Holidays: Always check if your dates overlap with holidays like Semana Santa (Holy Week), which can impact crowds and costs.
• Embrace the Early Morning: The best way to beat the crowds at popular attractions is to arrive right when they open.

Stay Connected

Having data access upon landing is essential.

An eSIM is a digital SIM card you can download before you leave, allowing you to activate a data plan the moment you arrive. It’s a modern solution to avoid expensive roaming fees and the hassle of finding a local SIM card.

See our prepaid travel eSIM’s for Portugal

See our prepaid travel eSIM’s for Japan

See our prepaid travel eSIM’s for Argentina

See our prepaid travel eSIM’s for Costa Rica

See our prepaid travel eSIM’s for Egypt