March marks the end of winter in the northern hemisphere and the tail end of summer in the southern hemisphere. It is a shoulder season that offers the best of both worlds—fewer crowds and more affordable travel, complemented by the perfect weather for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, a slice of paradise awaits you. If you’re wondering where are the best places to visit in March, here are 15 destinations to explore and enjoy.
1. San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is a beautiful blend of history and tropical scenery, making it one of the warm places to visit in March. The enchanting streets of Old San Juan, adorned with colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone roads, are calling out to history enthusiasts.
Explore the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and delve into the history of Puerto Rico at the Museo de las Américas.
For a day of sun and sand, you can visit the beautiful beaches of Isla Verde and Condado, where you will find turquoise waters meeting golden shores. Ocean Park is another great option for a more relaxed beach atmosphere, which is quite popular among locals.
You can also stroll along the Paseo de la Princesa, a picturesque promenade that runs along the city walls, and enjoy the stunning views of San Juan Bay.
2. Maldives
The Maldives stands out as one of the best places to travel to in March, offering a dreamy paradise with crystal-clear waters, luxurious overwater bungalows, and pristine beaches.
Experience the ultimate tropical accommodation with overwater bungalows directly accessing the turquoise lagoons. Maldivian resorts are known for offering romantic experiences such as private dinners on the beach and sunset cruises on traditional dhonis, allowing couples to immerse themselves in the romantic ambiance of the Indian Ocean.
Indulge in the Maldives’ unique underwater world during the warmth of March, explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with exotic marine life, or take a serene beach stroll along white sands. It’s an idyllic retreat tailor-made for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Consider visiting Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its manta ray and whale shark gatherings this season. You could even engage in a traditional Bodu Beru dance performance, a rhythmic celebration of Maldivian culture.
3. Maui, Hawaii
If you’re looking for hot places to go to in March, Maui offers a perfect blend of beach bliss and adventure. Begin your journey with sun-kissed strolls along the golden sands of Wailea Beach or the crescent-shaped Kapalua Bay, where turquoise waters invite you to unwind in the tropical paradise.
Then, take a scenic drive on the iconic Road to Hana for lush landscapes and waterfalls, and immerse yourself in Lahaina’s cultural richness with historical sites and a lively ambiance.
Get ready for an incredible adventure on the renowned Road to Hana. This stunning coastal road is a true feast for the senses, offering an abundance of lush rainforests, majestic waterfalls like Wailua Falls, and breathtaking ocean views.
March in Maui also marks the peak of humpback whale season, offering a chance to witness these majestic creatures during a whale-watching excursion.
4. Bali, Indonesia
Bali, also known as the Island of the Gods, is among the best countries to visit in March. It boasts a rich culture, stunning temples, and breathtaking landscapes. With comfortable surf temperatures and clear skies, March is the perfect time to explore ancient Uluwatu temples perched on cliffs, offering panoramic ocean views.
Attending the traditional Kecak dance performances during sunset can enhance your experience, creating a magical atmosphere amid historical surroundings.
If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud, check out the Ubud Monkey Forest, a beautiful sanctuary with ancient temples. Another great place to visit is the Ubud Art Market, where local artisans display their crafts.
You can make your visit even more special by participating in a traditional Balinese dance or art workshop, allowing you to connect with the island’s creative spirit.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Savor the end of summer in Cape Town, South Africa, exploring cultural wonders, touring vineyards, and tasting exquisite wines.
Immerse yourself in one of the good places to visit in March by joining the festivities of the Cape Town Carnival, a lively celebration of diversity and creativity. Admire the vividly colored floats, costumes, and spirited performances that brighten the streets, showcasing the city’s dynamic character.
A visit to Cape Town should include a trip to the iconic Table Mountain. To deepen your cultural experience, visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. This offers a poignant insight into South Africa’s fight for freedom.
Attending the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March is a must if you’re a music enthusiast. The festival attracts top artists from around the world, and you can get lost in the soulful rhythms and melodies that fill the city during this iconic event.
6. Athens, Greece
Athens, Greece, stands out as one of the best places to vacation in March, as it beautifully blends ancient history with modern living.
The city’s iconic landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Acropolis, become even more enchanting as spring approaches, making it an opportune time to explore before the peak tourist season. This ancient fortress contains several architectural and historical significance buildings, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
Just below the Acropolis, you’ll find the Acropolis Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the archaeological site. Other notable landmarks include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Agora.
For those interested in the local culture, the Plaka district offers a charming maze of narrow streets lined with traditional houses, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to sample local cuisine or pick up a unique souvenir.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, Netherlands, is also on the list of best places to vacation in March. The city comes to life with the blooming flowers, especially the iconic tulips that decorate its beautiful gardens and picturesque canals.
The most eagerly anticipated event during this season is the grand opening of Keukenhof Gardens, which is the world’s largest flower park and transforms into a vibrant spectacle of colors.
One of the must-visit places in Amsterdam is the Rijksmuseum, which houses some of the most significant pieces of Dutch art and history. It showcases works by famous artists like Rembrandt. The Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House are other notable attractions that offer unique insights into the city’s rich history.
Beyond the historical and cultural landmarks, Amsterdam hosts several exciting events in March. Among them is the DGTL Festival Amsterdam 2024, a popular music festival that attracts electronic music lovers from around the world.
8. Singapore
When considering where are the best places to visit in March, Singapore should be at the top of your list. The tropical climate is perfect for year-round outdoor adventures amid the lush gardens and towering skyscrapers.
Must-visit attractions include the Gardens by the Bay, which showcases the world’s largest glass greenhouse and offers breathtaking waterfront views. For beach lovers, Sentosa Island is a paradise. Known for its beaches, theme parks, golf courses, and marina, it’s perfect for basking under the sun and indulging in water sports.
Another iconic landmark is the ArtScience Museum, which uniquely combines art, science, design, media, architecture, and technology. Additionally, art enthusiasts can look forward to the iLight Marina Bay Festival. This annual event, held since 2010, features sustainable light art installations from local and international artists.
9. Jaipur, India
Jaipur stands out as a good place to visit in March with its stunning architectural wonders. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of Winds,’ a stunning five-story pink and red sandstone structure.
Another must-visit is the Amer Fort, a majestic fort-palace complex built in traditional Rajput style. Located atop a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the city and Maota Lake.
For a memorable March trip to India, experience the vitality of the Holi festival, filled with colors, music, dance, and delicious food. This joyous occasion symbolizes the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.
If you still have time to spare, visit Elefantastic, a sanctuary dedicated to lovingly caring for elephants. You can spend time with these gentle giants, learning about their habits and helping with their daily routines.
10. Arizona, USA
One of the best places to visit in March is the Grand Canyon, offering mild temperatures for comfortable hikes and sightseeing. Take advantage of the comfortable temperatures at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim for hikes and join ranger-led programs for insights into its geology, history, and ecology.
Experience the breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from famous viewpoints such as Mather Point and Yavapai Point. These viewpoints showcase the intricate rock formations of the canyon, which appear to come alive.
To capture the beauty of this picturesque destination, visit during sunrise or sunset when the interplay of light and shadows transforms the canyon’s colors into a mesmerizing display.
Prepare yourself to immerse in the local culture by walking through Grand Canyon Village. As you wander around the historic El Tovar Hotel and the iconic Hopi House, you will feel like you have been transported back in time.
11. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is a luxurious paradise and one of the best places to travel in March. It is a prime destination for serene lagoons, vibrant vistas, and turquoise waters.
One of the top attractions in Bora Bora is Matira Beach, often lauded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The warm March weather is perfect for relaxing on its pristine sands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the sun. For adrenaline junkies, a 4×4 excursion offers a thrilling exploration of the island’s rugged interior.
Mount Otemanu, a remnant of an extinct volcano, is another must-visit landmark. Its majestic peak, visible from nearly anywhere on the island, constantly reminds of Bora Bora’s volcanic origins. Alternatively, snorkel alongside colorful fish, manta rays, and even sharks at Coral Gardens or enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking on the tranquil lagoon.
12. Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia‘s iconic harbor city, is one of the best places to vacation in March. As autumn sets in, the city is bathed in a mild and pleasant climate, perfect for exploring Sydney’s renowned landmarks and engaging in outdoor activities.
One of Sydney’s most famous landmarks is the Sydney Opera House. This architectural masterpiece, characterized by its distinctive sail-shaped roofs, hosts a variety of performances, from opera to contemporary dance.
Other landmarks you can visit are The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, The Queen Victoria Building, and the Sydney Fish Market.
March is also a great time for catching the tail end of Bondi Beach’s surf season, when you can catch some waves or simply relax on the golden sands. It’s also just in time for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, a lively festival advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
13. Saint Lucia, Caribbean
Saint Lucia, a breathtaking Caribbean destination, is among the warm places to visit in March. Explore the Sulphur Springs and take a therapeutic mud bath in naturally heated pools or the enchanting Saint Lucia Rainforest to discover exotic flora and fauna as part of your unforgettable holiday experience.
One of the highlights in Saint Lucia is the majestic Pitons — twin volcanic spires recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even though the hike to the top may be a bit challenging, the reward of the breathtaking panoramic views of the island and sea is worth it.
The island’s serene beaches, on the other hand, invite relaxation, offering sun-soaked tranquility accompanied by the soothing sound of waves. Experience Saint Lucian culture by attending the weekly Gros Islet Street Party. This lively event celebrates local music, food, and community spirit, providing a glimpse of the island’s hospitality.
14. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia, is another of the best places to go in March, where you can discover the city’s historic charm. The Walled City of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobblestone streets and colorful facades, offers a walk back in time.
Explore cultural gems like the imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas for panoramic views of the city and harbor and the artistic flair of Getsemaní’s neighborhoods to admire its vibrant street murals, lively music scene, and bustling nightlife.
Head to Islas del Rosario or Isla Barú for sun-soaked escapes to pristine beaches and thrilling snorkeling. These tropical islands invite you to unwind on the white sandy beaches, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the abundant marine life.
The Zenu Gold Museum is another fascinating attraction. It houses a collection of gold artifacts and pottery from Colombia’s indigenous Zenú culture, offering insights into the rich history and heritage of the region.
15. Kyoto, Japan
Renowned among the best countries to visit in March, witness the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto, Japan’s cherry blossoms are in full bloom during this time. This spectacular floral display paints the city in hues of pink and white, creating an ethereal atmosphere that will leave you enchanted.
One of the best places to witness this natural extravaganza is Maruyama Park. As the most popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Kyoto, the park is home to hundreds of cherry trees, with the centerpiece being a large weeping cherry tree illuminated at night.
The historic Kiyomizu-dera temple, nestled on the hillside overlooking the city, offers another exceptional vantage point. Here, the cherry blossoms create a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the ancient temple and the cityscape beyond.
March also brings vibrant Hanami festivals. These celebrations foster a festive atmosphere, with locals and tourists gathering beneath the blooming cherry trees to enjoy picnics, music, and the beauty of the blossoms.
Takeaway
Traveling in March is not just a way to escape the cold weather but an opportunity to experience other parts of the world. This post highlights 15 destinations with a warm and inviting environment for exploration, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
As you plan your March adventure, let OneAir be your ultimate guide to uncover these extraordinary destinations. With our AI-powered service, the world is just one click away.
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