March marks a global transition as the Northern Hemisphere awakens to spring while the Southern Hemisphere begins its autumnal shift. This pivotal month brings significant holidays and cultural festivities, from Ireland’s world-famous St. Patrick’s Day to colorful spring celebrations and ancient traditions marking seasonal change around the world.
Travel during this shoulder season offers significant advantages—reduced crowds at major attractions, moderate weather in typically extreme environments, and substantial savings compared to peak periods. Whether joining locals in national holiday celebrations, witnessing spectacular natural reawakenings, or immersing yourself in centuries-old festivals, March destinations provide compelling reasons to embark on late-winter escapes.
Dublin, Ireland: St. Patrick’s Day in Its Birthplace
Dublin transforms during mid-March for St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th), as Ireland’s capital hosts the most authentic celebration of the country’s patron saint and national identity. What began as a religious feast day has evolved into a five-day festival showcasing Irish culture, music, and heritage in the very streets where St. Patrick’s legacy began.
The St. Patrick’s Festival features the spectacular parade as its centerpiece, with elaborate floats, performers, and marching bands from around the world processing through central Dublin. Unlike the often solely celebratory nature of St. Patrick’s Day abroad, Dublin’s parade incorporates theatrical elements and artistic performances that explore Irish identity and contemporary culture alongside traditional representations.
Throughout the festival period, the city becomes an open-air celebration:
- Historic buildings illuminate in green during the Greening of the City
- Traditional music sessions spill from pubs across Temple Bar and beyond
- Streets fill with ceili (traditional dance) performances and workshops
- Literary events honor Ireland’s storytelling tradition in the UNESCO City of Literature
- Special exhibitions at national museums explore St. Patrick’s historical and cultural significance
Beyond organized events, Dublin’s famous pubs become centers of spontaneous celebration where visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and the legendary Irish gift for conversation. While certainly festive, the city maintains an authentic atmosphere that balances celebration with cultural substance.
For visitors seeking deeper connections to St. Patrick himself, March creates perfect conditions for day trips to sites associated with the saint, including the Rock of Cashel and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh, with special programming during this period illuminating the historical figure behind the celebration.
The combination of national significance, cultural depth, and festive atmosphere makes Dublin the ideal destination for experiencing St. Patrick’s Day as both celebration and cultural immersion.
Where to Stay: The historic Shelbourne hotel stands at the heart of Dublin on St. Stephen’s Green. This landmark 5-star hotel features pillow-top mattresses, marble bathrooms with luxury amenities, exclusive Health Club and Spa with swimming pool and thermal facilities, The Saddle Room restaurant serving Irish steak and seafood, and The Lord Mayor’s Lounge for afternoon tea—placing you steps from Trinity College, Grafton Street, and the National Gallery.
What to do: Experience Dublin’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s most popular visitor attraction. This seven-story experience explores the history of Ireland’s famous stout, culminating in panoramic views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar with your complimentary pint.
Kyoto, Japan: Early Cherry Blossom Season
March brings the first blush of Japan’s famous sakura (cherry blossom) season to Kyoto, creating magical scenes as delicate pink flowers frame ancient temples and traditional wooden architecture. While Tokyo’s blooms typically appear slightly later, Kyoto often experiences early flowering, particularly in sheltered temple gardens and along the Philosopher’s Path.
The cultural significance of cherry blossoms in Japanese culture transforms this natural phenomenon into a profound experience. Hanami (flower viewing) parties begin in parks and along riverbanks, with locals celebrating the transient beauty that symbolizes both life’s brilliance and impermanence. This centuries-old tradition connects visitors to the core of Japanese aesthetic principles.
Early March visitors benefit from significantly smaller crowds than during peak bloom in April. Major sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, and Fushimi Inari Shrine can be experienced without the shoulder-to-shoulder congestion that defines peak season. Accommodations remain more available and affordable, while still offering the possibility of catching early blossoms.
Beyond the cherry trees, March showcases additional seasonal delights:
- Plum blossoms continuing from February in significant temple gardens
- Special limited-edition spring wagashi (traditional sweets) in historic confectioneries
- Seasonal kaiseki cuisine featuring early spring vegetables and mountain herbs
- Spring maiko (apprentice geisha) performances with seasonal themes
The mild temperatures (typically 5-15°C/41-59°F) create ideal conditions for exploring Kyoto’s walkable districts and temple complexes without summer’s humidity or winter’s chill.
Where to Stay: The Mitsui Kyoto Hotel & Spa occupies a historic site in central Kyoto featuring a beautiful Japanese garden. This elegant property offers spacious rooms with traditional aesthetics, a stunning mineral spring spa, indoor pool, multiple dining venues, and proximity to Nijo Castle and Kyoto Imperial Palace—providing an authentic luxury experience in Japan’s ancient capital.
What to Book: Explore Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks with a Kyoto Temples and Shrines Day Tour featuring visits to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous torii gate pathways, and other UNESCO World Heritage sites that showcase Japan’s architectural and spiritual heritage.
Valencia, Spain: Las Fallas Festival
March transforms Valencia into Spain’s most spectacular festival destination during Las Fallas, a pyrotechnic celebration that combines artistic expression, satirical commentary, and controlled destruction. This UNESCO-recognized event sees neighborhoods throughout the city construct ninots—enormous sculpted figures often depicting politicians, celebrities, and cultural phenomena with satirical intent.
These artistic creations—some reaching several stories high—populate city squares for public viewing until the festival’s culmination on March 19th (St. Joseph’s Day). That night, in an event called La Cremà, all but the single most popular figure are ceremonially burned in a spectacular display of controlled fire that must be experienced to be believed.
The festival atmosphere builds throughout early March with daily events:
- La Mascletà—rhythmic firecracker displays at 2 PM daily in Plaza del Ayuntamiento
- La Despertà—”wake-up calls” of fireworks and brass bands through residential streets
- Flower offerings to the Virgin Mary creating an enormous display at the cathedral
- Parades featuring regional costumes, music, and centuries-old traditions
March also brings ideal conditions for exploring Valencia beyond the festival. Mediterranean temperatures (typically 12-19°C/54-66°F) create perfect weather for experiencing this underrated Spanish city’s combination of futuristic architecture at the City of Arts and Sciences, historic districts with Roman and Moorish influences, and the garden-filled riverbed park created in the former Turia River course.
Where to Stay: The Westin occupies one of Valencia’s most impressive Modernist buildings, 0.6 miles from the Cathedral. This exclusive hotel features Art Deco design in spacious air-conditioned rooms, a 2,789 square-foot spa and wellness center with indoor therapy pool and Finnish sauna, multiple dining venues including Rosemarino restaurant and SeaBar Valencia, and proximity to Mestalla Football Stadium and three metro stations—offering luxury accommodations near all festival activities.
What to do: Discover Valencia’s futuristic architecture with a City of Arts and Sciences Walking Tour, exploring the stunning complex designed by Santiago Calatrava featuring the Oceanogràfic aquarium, Hemisfèric IMAX cinema, and Science Museum—one of the most photographed architectural marvels in Spain.
Washington DC, USA: Cherry Blossom Festival Beginnings
Washington’s famous cherry trees—gifts from Japan in 1912—begin their spectacular bloom cycle in late March, transforming the Tidal Basin into a pink-hued wonderland against the backdrop of iconic national monuments. The National Cherry Blossom Festival officially begins in March, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the early stages of this world-famous natural display without April’s peak crowds.
March visitors benefit from significantly more accommodation availability, shorter restaurant waits, and more peaceful experiences at attractions like the Jefferson Memorial and FDR Memorial—both surrounded by cherry trees but often impossibly crowded during peak bloom.
Beyond the emerging blossoms, March offers Washington visitors distinctive advantages:
- Moderate temperatures (typically 5-15°C/41-59°F) ideal for monument walking tours
- Spring programming beginning at major museums and cultural institutions
- Uncrowded access to newly reopened attractions after winter maintenance
- Springtime special exhibitions at the Smithsonian museums
The combination of cultural richness, historical significance, and natural beauty makes Washington an ideal March destination before the crush of school groups and peak-season tourism arrives in April and May.
Where to Stay: The historic Willard InterContinental sits on Pennsylvania Avenue, 1,581 feet from the White House. This luxury hotel features elegant rooms with 50-inch Smart TVs, 24-hour fitness center and sauna, Café du Parc serving traditional French fare, private limo service, and proximity to the Metro Center subway station—placing you at the heart of the nation’s capital during cherry blossom season.
What to Book: Experience Washington’s iconic monuments and memorials with a National Mall Monuments and Memorials Tour, offering guided exploration of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and more—providing historical context and fascinating stories behind America’s most recognizable landmarks.
Jaipur, India: Holi Festival and Perfect Weather
March brings the vibrant Hindu festival of Holi to the “Pink City” of Jaipur, transforming Rajasthan’s capital into an explosion of color, music, and joyful celebration. This ancient spring festival sees participants throw colored powders and water at each other, temporarily breaking down social boundaries in a celebration that has become one of India’s most internationally recognized cultural events.
Jaipur’s historic buildings and palace courtyards provide spectacular backdrops for these celebrations, with the massive City Palace hosting one of the region’s most elaborate Holi events. The contrast of vibrant colors against the city’s trademark pink sandstone architecture creates unforgettable scenes and photographic opportunities.
March also brings ideal weather conditions to Rajasthan before summer’s extreme heat arrives. Temperatures typically range from 15-32°C (59-90°F)—warm enough for comfortable exploration but not yet reaching the 40°C+ (104°F+) temperatures common from April through June.
These conditions create perfect opportunities for experiencing Jaipur’s extraordinary cultural and architectural heritage:
- Exploring the astronomical instruments at the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar observatory
- Photographing the honeycomb-like Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) in soft morning light
- Venturing to the impressive Amber Fort on the city’s outskirts
- Shopping for textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts in the Old City bazaars
The combination of cultural celebration, architectural splendor, and ideal weather conditions makes March the perfect month to experience Rajasthan’s most colorful city.
Where to Stay: The Oberoi Rajvilas offers unique 5-star accommodations set amid 32 acres of beautiful gardens. This luxurious property features spacious rooms with modern interiors overlooking greenery, outdoor pool, three dining options including Surya Mahal serving international dishes and Rajmahal restaurant offering Indian specialties, full-service spa, fitness center, and free WiFi—providing a serene retreat 5 miles from the City Center and Hawa Mahal.
What to do: Explore Jaipur’s magnificent heritage with a guided tour of Amber Fort, Panna Meena Stepwell, Jal Mahal and the Royal Gaitor Tombs, featuring visits to several iconic attractions including the UNESCO World Heritage Amber Fort with its ornate mirror halls and courtyards, plus panoramic views from the hilltop fortresses—providing comprehensive insight into Rajasthan’s royal legacy.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Tulip Season Beginnings
March marks the beginning of Amsterdam’s transformation into a floral wonderland as the first tulips emerge at the Keukenhof Gardens and throughout the Dutch countryside. While April brings peak bloom, March offers early visitors the advantage of witnessing the progression from the first crocuses and daffodils to the initial tulip displays.
Keukenhof typically opens in late March, allowing visitors to experience the meticulously designed gardens with significantly smaller crowds than during April and May peak periods. The 79-acre park showcases over 7 million flowering bulbs in spectacular arrangements that highlight Dutch horticultural expertise developed over centuries.
Amsterdam itself emerges from winter in March with:
- Almond and plum trees blooming along canal paths
- Cafés reopening their waterfront terraces
- Museums launching major spring exhibitions
- Weekly markets expanding their offerings with spring flowers and produce
March temperatures (typically 4-10°C/39-50°F) create ideal conditions for exploring Amsterdam’s museum district, historic canal ring, and distinctive neighborhoods without summer’s tourist crowds. The softer spring light creates perfect conditions for photography along the UNESCO-listed canals.
For travelers seeking unique Dutch cultural experiences, March offers:
- Contemporary dance and theater during the annual Cinedans festival
- Classical music performances in historic venues during the Bachfestival
- Special exhibitions at major museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
- Celebrations around Dutch heritage sites reopening after winter maintenance
Where to Stay: Waldorf Astoria consists of six monumental 17th-century canal palaces set along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Herengracht. This 5-star hotel features uniquely decorated rooms with canal and courtyard garden views, luxury Guerlain spa with indoor swimming pool and treatment rooms, Spectrum restaurant, iconic Peacock Alley, intimate Vault Bar, and complimentary bike rental—placing you in the heart of Amsterdam within walking distance of Rembrandtplein and PC Hooftstraat shopping.
What to do: Experience Amsterdam from its most iconic perspective with an Amsterdam City Canal Cruise, gliding past the UNESCO-listed canal ring, historic merchant houses, Anne Frank House, and the city’s signature bridges while learning about 400 years of Dutch Golden Age history—a must-do experience that’s especially magical during early spring.
Patagonia, Chile and Argentina: Autumn Colors and Optimal Hiking
March brings Patagonia’s brief but spectacular autumn, transforming this wilderness region with golden foliage against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. As the Southern Hemisphere transitions to fall, Torres del Paine National Park and Los Glaciares National Park showcase extraordinary color changes in their southern beech forests while maintaining stable enough weather for hiking and outdoor activities.
This shoulder season creates the perfect balance for outdoor enthusiasts:
- Significantly reduced winds compared to summer months
- Fewer crowds on major hiking routes like the W Trek
- Extraordinary photography conditions with dramatic light and autumn colors
- Wildlife becoming more active during pre-winter feeding periods
March typically brings temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F)—cool enough for comfortable hiking but not yet experiencing winter’s extreme conditions. Rainfall decreases from summer levels, creating higher probabilities of clear views of the region’s famous peaks like Torres del Paine, Mount Fitz Roy, and Cerro Torre.
Visitors benefit from:
- End-of-season rates at lodges and hotels
- Greater availability for boat excursions to Grey Glacier and other sites
- Improved chances for puma and huemul deer sightings
- Atmospheric conditions creating extraordinary sunrises and sunsets
The combination of autumn colors, moderate weather, and reduced tourism creates a perfect window for experiencing Patagonia’s wilderness before winter conditions make access more challenging.
Where to Stay: Explora en Torres del Paine sits inside Torres del Paine National Park by the shore of Pehoe Lake. This all-inclusive property offers packages for 3 nights or more including all transportation, meals, beverages, and choice of more than 40 explorations by foot, horseback, or vehicle. Rooms feature breath-taking views of the Torres del Paine massif and Salto Chico waterfall, heated pool, sauna, outdoor hot tubs steps from Paine River, and the property’s own catamaran for lake crossings—providing the ultimate base for Patagonian adventures.
Costa Rica: Dry Season Wildlife and Beach Perfection
March brings Costa Rica’s dry season to its ideal peak, with consistently sunny days, minimal rainfall, and perfect conditions for experiencing the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and beach landscapes. This optimal weather window occurs just before Easter’s domestic tourism surge, creating a sweet spot for international visitors.
Wildlife viewing reaches prime conditions across Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems:
- Monteverde’s cloud forests host courtship displays from the resplendent quetzal
- Manuel Antonio’s beaches see increased monkey activity along forest edges
- Tortuguero’s canals become optimal for spotting caimans, river turtles, and tropical birds
- Corcovado’s remote trails offer improved chances for spotting elusive species like tapirs
The Pacific coast experiences perfect beach conditions with warm waters (typically 26°C/79°F) and consistently sunny days ideal for surfing, snorkeling, and relaxation. The Caribbean coast begins transitioning from its winter rainfall pattern, offering increased chances for clear days in regions like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita.
March temperatures vary by elevation but generally remain comfortable:
- Coastal areas: 23-33°C (73-91°F)
- Mid-elevations (San José): 16-27°C (61-81°F)
- Cloud forests: 14-21°C (57-70°F)
The optimal conditions come with moderate crowds—busy but not overwhelmed like the December-January high season—and reasonable accommodation availability except around university spring break periods.
Where to Stay: The Four Seasons Resort on Peninsula Papagayo features 4 swimming pools, 2 private beaches, golf courts, gym, and business center set on Papagayo Gulf. This luxury resort offers stylish rooms with rattan and bamboo furnishings, air conditioning, sitting areas, flat-screen cable TVs, and terraces with ocean views. Four on-site restaurants serve salads, vegetarian dishes, Italian cuisine, seafood, and local specialties, while the exclusive Tuanis Teen Center provides entertainment for teenage guests—creating the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
Planning Your March Holiday Adventure
March offers travelers unique opportunities to experience significant cultural celebrations, natural transitions, and ideal conditions in many destinations. From St. Patrick’s Day festivities to spring awakening festivals to autumn transitions in the Southern Hemisphere, this month provides distinctive travel experiences that showcase locations during their seasonal transformations.
Consider these factors when planning your March journey:
- Major festivals like St. Patrick’s Day and Las Fallas require advance booking for accommodations
- Spring break periods vary by country and region, affecting crowds and pricing
- Easter occasionally falls in late March, creating holiday periods in many countries
- Southern Hemisphere destinations begin autumn transitions with cooler nights
Whether joining locals in national holiday celebrations, witnessing natural transformations, or experiencing cultural festivals, March destinations offer compelling reasons to embark on late-winter escapes that combine authentic experiences with ideal travel conditions.
