places to visit in italy end of march

Italy in March – Where to Go + Weather 2024

Updated January 5, 2024

// By Margherita

Hello everyone! Welcome to a new series where we tell you all about our beloved country in all months of the year. Let’s start with Italy in March – where to go, weather info and best events! UPDATED JAN 2024

The secret has been out for a while – Spring is the best time to visit Italy! However, in Spring there are many festivities and bank holidays that can make top destinations really crowded. 

So, what about Italy in March? Well, technically most of March is still winter, but normally from mid-February onwards the weather starts to warm up , the days get longer and sunnier, and the ‘winter’ atmosphere slowly fades away.

To sum up, March marks the start of shoulder season, and it is a great time to visit Italy!

It’s still a good time to go skiing , and a wonderful time to visit cities , with only a fraction of visitors found in the warmer months. It’s also a good time to hike at lower altitudes, but it’s still too chilly to go to the beach. 

Let’s have a closer look at March weather in Italy , before moving on to what to visit, and the best festivals and events!

Weather in March in Italy

In Italy, March is the month when the weather starts taking a turn for the best, after months of wintry cold, rain and fog.

Now, when talking about weather in Italy, don’t forget that the country is really big, measuring approximately 1200 km from north to south. So, the weather changes dramatically from the Alps to Sicily, but we’ll do our best to provide a summary!

In northern Italy , average max temperatures in March are about 10°C, dipping to around 6°C at night. You may also encounter some rainy days, but the weather will be markedly warmer compared to winter, especially later in the month.

In the Alps , temperatures often stay below freezing, and it’s still a good time to ski – resorts typically close in late April. 

In Southern Italy , March offers typically Spring temperatures, with maximum around 16/20°C depending on where you go. It may still be too cold to go to the beach, but just the right temperature to go hiking or sightseeing around cities. 

Also, summer daylight saving generally comes into effect in Italy on the last weekend in March. As a result, the sun sets as late as 8 pm by the end of the month!

Where to Go in March in Italy

1) the dolomites .

March is great month to go skiing in Italy. The busiest months for skiing are typically January and February, so by March most of the crowds have gone – however, the snow may be a little more icy compared to earlier in the season. 

One of the best places to ski in Italy is Dolomiti Superski , a mammoth resort with 1200 km of slopes, connecting 12 ski areas, with options for everyone from beginners to daredevils.

You can easily access Dolomiti Superski from Cortina d’Ampezzo , Vigo di Fassa, Arabba and several more towns in the Trentino/Bolzano area, and with one ski pass you can ski wherever you like. 

If you are not into skiing, the Dolomites are still a wonderful place to explore in March – there should still be snow, allowing for stunning snowshoe or winter hikes. For that, we recommend the Seiser Alm area , a plateau where you can enjoy great views without the need to hike uphill!

Book your Dolomites tours here!

• Heart of the Dolomites: Full Day Tour by Car
• Dolomites Snowshoe Tour Near Cortina
• Dolomites Full Day Tour From Lake Garda

2) Valtellina

The Dolomites are wonderful, but they can busy, even in March. Another great skiing destination is Valtellina , not far from the Swiss border to the north of Milan. The best ski resort is Bormio , with slopes as high as 3000 meters, and historic baths dating back to Roman times for a post-ski soak. 

Another wonderful destination in Valtellina is Livigno , a town hidden away in a remote valley surrounded by mountains on all sides. It is also known as ‘Little Tibet’ due to the amount of snow it gets, and being close to the Swiss border, it’s also a tax free zone – shopping lovers, take note!

Let’s move away from the mountains and to one of Italy’s most beloved destinations – Venice.

Now, you all know that Venice is busy year round – spring and summer are high season, and winter also gets busy with Carnival celebrations. However, depending on when Carnival falls, by March celebrations may be over – allowing locals to enjoy a blissful tourist-free Venice until arrivals resume for Easter. 

If Venice is still too busy for you, why not go cycling in the Venetian Lagoon , or take a day trip to one of the lesser-known surrounding islands. Skip touristy Burano for just-as-colourful Mazzorbo , and don’t forget to check out Torcello !

Book your Venice tours here!

• Doge Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica: Skip-The-Line Tour
• Venice: Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Admission Ticket
• Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

Similarly to Venice, March in Rome is generally a pretty good time , with warm spring temperatures and low tourist numbers, which also translate in affordable accommodation.

Midweek you may even find sights like the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum devoid of queues – something you can just dream of the rest of the year. If you are a runner, take note of the Rome Marathon taking place in March – more info in the ‘events’ section below!

Once again, if touristy hotspots are too busy for you (or you’ve seen them already) Rome is full of lesser-known places to explore – Garbatella, Coppedè and Ostiense are some of my favourite neighbourhood.

Book your Rome tours here!

• Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Entry Tickets
• Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket
• Rome: Street Food Tour with Local Guide

March is a wonderful time to explore Southern Italy , including one of my wonderful places in the whole country – Matera . 

Matera is known for its Sassi , entire neighbourhoods of buildings excavated out of the calcareous rock, inhabited since the Paleolithic. The Sassi were once home to the poorest of the poor, but since postwar times they have been renovated and turned into modern homes, and even luxury hotels!

March is a great time to visit as most of the city is built out of pale stone. In summer, the heat is prohibitive, with the sun rays reflecting off the stone and making you feel as if you were in a greenhouse. It can get really hot as early as April/May, so March is just perfect!

Matera is located in Basilicata, not far from the stunning Puglia region, meaning you can easily combine both in one trip.

Book your Matera tours here!

• Matera: Guided Tour of Sassi di Matera
• Matera: Panoramic Tuk-Tuk Tour
• Matera: 007 “No Time to Die” Film Sites Walking Tour

6) Amalfi Coast

Let’s stay in Southern Italy , and explore one of the most beautiful stretches of coast of the entire country – the Amalfi Coast. 

Now, the Amalfi Coast is really a place you don’t want to explore during high season. Villages like Amalfi, Positano and Maiori are perched on hilltops and connected by twisty roads, making traffic and parking a real nightmare. On top of that, beaches along the coast are really tiny, and in summer, they are only accessible to residents.

March in the Amalfi Coast is still blissfully quiet . It’s also the ideal time to go hiking along trails like the Path of Gods – in summer, it gets too hot to hike comfortably. It’s still too cold to swim, but walking or sitting on the beach is also pleasant!

Book your Amalfi Coast tours here!

• From Amalfi Coast: Capri Full-Day Guided Trip
• From Sorrento: Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour
• Amalfi Coast: Boat and Snorkeling Tour in Small Group

Are you looking for sun and warm weather? The best place in Southern Italy to visit in March would definitely be Sicily. As the southernmost Italian region, it’s definitely the place that sees the most sunshine and warmest temperatures, routinely topping 20°C during the day. 

Similarly to other places around the country, March is shoulder season in Sicily , so tourist numbers are low and accommodation prices are at their most affordable. Places like Taormina and Erice , which get really busy in summer, are pleasant to explore, as are places like the Aeolian Islands .

If Easter falls in March, it’s a great time to visit to see Easter parades and celebrations, like the Misteri in Trapani. However, expect prices for transport and accommodation to be more expensive during Easter week, as many locals return home for the festivities.

Also, even though the weather may get really warm in Sicily in March , it would probably be too cold for the beach and swimming – plan your holiday in May or June if that’s what you want! 

Book your Sicily tours here!

• Catania: Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Day Trip with Tasting
• Etna: Guided Trekking Tour to Summit Craters
• From Catania: Valley of the Temples and Turkish Steps

March Events and Festivals in Italy

Carnival .

This celebration takes place just before the beginning of Lent, so the exact date changes from year to year. If Easter falls in late April, Carnival may take place in early March.

Celebrations change depending on where you go in Italy, but generally include parades with floats, people in fancy dress, masked parties and other assorted revelry. 

Some of the best-known Carnival celebrations in the country take place in Venice and Ivrea, home to the popular (and unique) Battle of the Oranges . They are both great events to attend, but expect higher prices and tourist numbers.

San Giuseppe/Father’s Day 

March 19th marks the day of San Giuseppe, which is also Father’s Day in Italy. Children celebrate it by giving gifts to their fathers, and it’s a popular occasion for families to eat out.

On Father’s Day, it’s also common to eat zeppole , fried doughnuts filled with cream and topped with a cherry. If you are visiting Italy in March , definitely pop into a patisserie and order one!

Rome Marathon

Are you a runner? Take note to visit Italy in March to join the Rome Marathon , taking place the fourth Sunday of the month. The course includes most of Rome’s famous sights, ending right in front of the Colosseum. 

Festa della Donna

March 8th is International Women’s Day , known as ‘Festa della Donna’ in Italy. It’s celebrated by giving ladies mimosa flowers, the symbol of the festivity. Ladies also often go out to eat with their friends, and sometimes clubs and restaurants organise special events.

Similarly to Carnival, Easter may fall in late March on some years. Easter traditionally marks the start of high season in tourist destinations around the country, so expect to find higher prices and more people around. 

At the same time, Easter is a good time to visit places organising festivals and parades – find out more in our post about Italy in April !

Looking for more month-by-month Italy guides? There you are!

• Italy in January – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in February – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in May – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in June – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in July – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in August – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in September – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in October – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in November – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in December – Where to Go + Weather

Fearlessly Italy

Italy in March – What to Do + Planning Tips (2024 Edition)

Are you thinking about traveling to Italy in March and not sure what to expect? You have landed in the very right place. From what to expect from the weather to what to do, we are going to give you all our local’s insights on planning a perfect Italy trip .

March in Italy is a sort of transition month. Why? Because it’s the month when winter steps aside for spring to start, the temperatures start to get milder, the winter slumber is almost over, the tourism season is about to kick off.

This makes it a bit of an unpredictable month and our guide wants to address all the info you need to know to plan a smooth trip and avoid surprises. We talk about what to book ahead, what to pack and wear, and obviously what are the best places to visit and activities to take part in.

Table of Contents

Is March a good month to visit Italy?

March is a great month to visit Italy . The tourist season isn’t in full swing yet so visiting even the busier landmarks is not a hassle and smaller crowds allow for a better experience. The weather is definitely more pleasant than in summer because you can walk for hours on end without sweating.

In my opinion, March is a fantastic month to plan your two-week Italy vacation as you can really enjoy it at your own pace. Even if you can stay only 10 days in Italy , it’s going to be a terrific trip with mostly lovely weather, long days, and smaller crowds.

Pros and cons of traveling to Italy in March

• Small crowds. Tourists are starting to arrive in big cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, but landmarks won’t be as crowded as in the peak seasons such as May or July.
• Better weather. Even though pretty unpredictable, in most regions of Italy , the weather in March is less cold than in February and walking is obviously more pleasant than in the summer months.
• Longer days. In March, the days get longer because of the approaching of the warm season and also because Italy adopts daylight saving time.
• Unpredictable weather. That’s right, even though not the coldest month of the year, March in Italy has in store a good deal of unpredictability for us. The weather can change quite suddenly so better if you come prepared.
• Possible rain. Showers in March in Italy are always around the corner.
• No swimming time. Even if you see clear and sunny skies, you can’t really swim anywhere in Italy in March as the water is still too cold.

Can you go to the beach in Italy in March?

Even though this is the month when spring starts, March in Italy is no beach time. By this, I mean that it’s not sunbathing and swimming time and definitely you can’t go wearing a bikini, but there are plenty of more things you can do on the beach in March.

When it’s calm and sunny, it’s a great time to go for a walk along the beach. In March, several sea resorts around Italy from the Amalfi Coast to Liguria’s Cinque Terre are starting to reopen after the winter slumber so you can enjoy also lunch or dinner with a view, afternoon coffee, or evening drinks.

Is Sorrento or Positano better in March?

I would probably recommend Sorrento or Naples as a base for your trips because Positano, Ravello, and the Amalfi Coast in general are not fully active yet. Sorrento is a bigger town and you have more chances to find a larger choice of hotels and restaurants.

Weather in Italy in March

Is Italy warm in March? Is March a rainy month in Italy? Being when the tourist season starts to kick off, many are the questions world travelers have about planning a trip to Italy in March.

In Italy, we have a saying “Marzo pazzerello, guarda il sole e prendi l’ombrello”, meaning “Crazy March, look at the sun and take the umbrella”. This is to stress how unpredictable the weather in March in Italy is, literally able to change within minutes.

Keep in mind that although March is the month that welcomes spring, for the first three weeks, it’s still winter. This means that warm clothes are necessary and in no way it’s beach time!

Weather in March in northern Italy

As for the other winter months, the northern Italian regions are colder than the south in March, too. Even though this is when spring starts, don’t be mistaken and keep wearing warm clothes if you travel to northern Italy in April .

• Milan: high 14°C (57°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Turin: high 14°C (57°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Aosta: high 14°C (57°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Venice: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Verona: high 14°C (57°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Bologna: high 14°C (57°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Ravenna: high 13°C (55°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Trieste: high 13°C (55°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Trento: high 10°C (50°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Bolzano: high 16°C (61°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Genoa: high 15°C (59°F) – low 9°C (48°F)

Weather in March in central Italy

Central Italy in March still sees some cold weather, especially at night. Rome enjoys some of the higher temps while cities like L’Aquila and Perugia are slightly colder.

• Rome: high 17°C (63°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Viterbo: high 14°C (57°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Florence: high 14°C (57°F) – low 1°C (34°F)
• Siena: high 16°C (61°F) – low 4°C (39F°)
• Pisa: high 15°C (59°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Lucca: high 15°C (59°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Perugia: high 13°C (55°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Assisi: high 13°C (55°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Arezzo: high 15°C (59°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• L’Aquila: high 10°C (50°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Campobasso: high 11°C (52°F) – low 4°C (39°F)

Weather in March in southern Italy

How warm is southern Italy in March? Is Amalfi warm in March? Southern Italy is very popular in summer so as soon as the nice weather starts creeping in, travelers start making plans and inquiries. This is one of the warmest areas in Italy all year round, and spring is a lovely time to enjoy the views without the scorching summer sun.

• Naples: high 17°C (63°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Caserta: high 16°C (61°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Salerno: high 16°C (61°F) – low 12°C (54°F)
• Amalfi Coast: high 16°C (61°F) – low 12°C (54°F)
• Sorrento: high 19°C (66°F) – low 13°C (55°F)
• Positano: high 19°C (66°F) – low 13°C (55°F)
• Bari: high 15°C (59°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Foggia: high 15°C (59°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Lecce: high 16°C (61°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Alberobello: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Ostuni: high 14°C (57°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Reggio Calabria: high 17°C (63°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Matera: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)

Weather in March in the Italian islands

In March, Sicily is slightly warmer than Sardinia, but both regions are perfect for sightseeing. Even though they are famous for their wonderful beaches, the temperatures are still not warm enough to sunbathe and swim as the water is still very cold.

• Palermo: high 17°C (63°F) – low 11°C (52°F)
• Agrigento: high 16°C (61°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Catania: high 18°C (64°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Taormina: high 16°C (61°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Siracusa: high 18°C (64°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Ragusa: high 18°C (64°F) – low 12°C (54°F)
• Cagliari: high 17°C (63°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Sassari: high 13°C (55°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Palau: high 14°C (57°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Nuoro: high 14°C (57°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Oristano: high 15°C (59°F) – low 10°C (50°F)

Important dates in Italy in March 2024

Except in the years of early Easter, usually, March in Italy is not a holiday month. There are, however, a few dates to mark if you like to blend in and take part in some local events.

• March 8th – International Women’s Day. Women’s Day in Italy is not a holiday and is usually celebrated in the evening by couples or groups of friends who go out for dinner or themed parties.
• March 19th – Father’s Day. Father’s Day is also not a holiday in Italy but you will see several themed events to celebrate fatherhood with children and their families, especially in parks or some kids-friendly restaurants.
• March 26th – Daylight saving time. On the night between Saturday 25th of March and Sunday 26th at 2 am, the time in Italy changes and you need to set your clock forward one hour.
• Lent. In 2024, Easter is on March 31st so the whole month of March is the Lent period. This doesn’t involve any particular holidays.

What to do in Italy in March

Join a local festival.

From the Eurochocolate in Perugia, Umbria, to the Mandorlo in Fiore festival in Agrigento, Sicily, In Italy in March there are several local fairs. Whether you are a cultural traveler, a foodie, or a photography enthusiast, Italy delivers for pretty much any passion and preference.

The nice weather and long days will help you enjoy the festival and take memorable pictures.

Celebrate Women’s Day

You will understand that Women’s Day is coming because the city will be filled with fluffy, yellow bunches of mimosa flowers around every corner. If you want to buy mimosa for the women close to you, you can find them in all flower shops as well as all flower street vendors in the city center who will have promptly switched their roses for the seasonal yellow blossoms.

Women’s Day is also celebrated with a nice dinner, by joining a themed party at a local nightclub or attending a live concert. Wherever you are, ask your hotel’s reception for any occasion in plan in their city and they will be happy to help.

Celebrate Father’s Day

On the 19th of March, in Italy, we celebrate San Giuseppe, Saint Joseph, and traditionally it’s Father’s Day. This is a lovely occasion to enjoy your time with your family by taking part in children’s and kids’ themed events and scavenger hunts in parks, restaurants, or museums. Do you need an idea?

In Rome, you can visit Explora Museum where they have different sections and activities depending on the age of your children. Whether you are traveling to Rome with a toddler or with older kids, Explora will have something planned out for every age.

Are you in the Liguria region? Don’t miss the wonderful Aquarium, one of the coolest places to visit in Genoa , where they will probably have special activities and multimedia installments for the day.

If you are in Veneto, the famous Gardaland entertainment park will certainly organize activities and promotions for the special day.

Visit an art city

Even though spring officially kicks off towards the end of the month, March in Italy is a lovely month for sightseeing.

The weather is very walking-friendly because it doesn’t get too cold anymore and it’s not too hot yet. When it’s a bit colder, wear an extra layer and you will be fine, and if it rains, duck into a cozy coffee shop for a coffee or cappuccino, and don’t worry, showers in March hardly last.

This is a fantastic time to explore Rome’s open-air ancient sites and archaeological sites like Ostia Antica, Pompeii, and Paestum. March is the month to discover the best things to do in Florence , visit beautiful cities like Verona, and also make a trendy trip to Milan for its art and fashion hubs.

Lovers of hiking and outdoor activities will be spoilt for choice over where to go in Italy in March. You can do some hiking along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast or the Cinque Terre for beautiful views.

The ski resorts of Trentino-Alto Adige’s Dolomites are still open through March, some even in April, when the winter season ends and locals get ready for the busy summer season.

Some places you can visit to hike in Trentino include Merano and its surroundings, Plose in the Isarco Valley, and the wonderful Val Gardena. If you don’t feel like skiing, don’t worry because in March in Trentino there is much more you can do such as walking in the woods, tasting local foods, and exploring quaint towns.

Take postcard-like pictures

Italy is very picturesque all over. This is probably why many cities and regions have often been the set of Italian and international movies. If you are visiting Italy in March when spring is at the beginning, the light and the colors are great for taking pictures.

This is especially true from Rome southward in locations like Puglia, Calabria, Basilicata, and Sicily, where you can find some places famous as screen tourism destinations. In Taormina, for example, Sicily, the HBO series “The White Lotus” was filmed.

Best places to visit in March in Italy

There’s hardly a bad time to visit Rome, but if you like quiet and are not scared by occasional rain showers, March is the month for you. Visiting the Colosseum and other busy landmarks is easier because of the shorter lines and you can actually enjoy the places.

For the sights that usually see the biggest crowds such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, I still recommend booking online your skip-the-line entrance or joining a private tour inclusive of fast-track access.

Rome in March enjoys a lovely light, temperatures start getting warmer, and days are longer. The onset of spring is visible also from the colorful flowers placed in the main squares and blossoming on the trees. This is a fantastic time to discover Rome’s wonderful squares , the gorgeous Roman fountains , and the city’s panoramic viewpoints.

Amalfi Coast

Winter is waving goodbye and tourist resorts such as the always-popular Amalfi Coast are getting ready to welcome the crowds. Restaurants and hotels are slowly reopening their doors, and local tourist services are available to help and assist.

This is a great time to explore more of the region, too, so apart from the Amalfi Coast and its scenic cliffside Positano town, you can visit Sorrento in the Sorrentine Peninsula facing the Bay of Naples, the beautiful Positano, and take a ferry to Capri or Ischia islands from Naples.

As I mentioned before, I suggest booking your hotel in Naples or Sorrento because the Amalfi Coast is still slowly emerging from winter hibernation.

Naples is one of my favorite cities in southern Italy . Enjoying a mild climate all year round, sightseeing in Naples in March is lovely. The weather is still a bit chilly but pleasant to walk around without sweating.

This is a great time to visit landmarks such as the Veiled Christ, the Duomo, and Maschio Angioino castle, walk in the central Spaccanapoli area and tuck into a delicious pizza.

March in Naples allows for lovely walks under the sun and along the beach, but it’s not time for swimming as temperatures are still cold and the water didn’t have the time to warm up.

Pompeii is a huge archaeological site that you can hardly visit in half a day. You can either stay a whole day or just visit half of it. I suggest booking a local guide because it will give a boost to your experience.

Because it’s so vast, open-air, and mostly uncovered, exploring it in summer is really challenging. Trust me, I did that and will never forget the sweating and the unforgiving sun. The next time I will visit Pompeii, it will certainly be any season but summer. If you are visiting Italy in March, this is a great month for this important landmark.

Right after the excitement of the Venice Carnival , in March the city is more tranquil and waits for the spring to unfold. Since there’s hardly a more scenic city than Venice, seize the occasion of tranquil streets and small crowds for a walk around its beautiful canals and bridges.

More importantly, as spring approaches, there will be less chance of flooding, and also humidity levels will be lower.

Appreciate the arrival of the new season in its longer days, colors, and scents, and take plenty of suggestive pictures of the local balconies leaning towards the water and full of flowers.

Florence really needs very little introduction. One of the most famous cities in Italy , so any time is a good time to visit. March, as spring approaches, is a great time to make Florence your base to explore more of Tuscany.

There are many easy day trips from Florence you can take to enjoy the natural landscape, the culture, and the traditions of its region. Soak in the greenery of the Chianti vineyards, visit medieval towns such as Siena and Lucca, pose in front of the Leaning Tower in Pisa , and relax in the soft rolling hills of the Val D’Orcia.

Perugia in winter is very cold, and even though March is when spring begins, don’t expect very mild temperatures. It doesn’t really rain much but expect chilly weather.

The main event taking place in Perugia in March and attracting thousands of visitors daily is Eurochocolate, a chocolate-themed kermess that in 2024 will be between March 15th and 24th. This is the very end of the month so you will most likely find warmer temperatures, longer days, and overall better weather.

Lapping the shores of Lombardia, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige, Lago di Garda is Italy’s largest lake. While March is still chilly at times, with spring approaching, it’s a nice month to visit. Being so huge and touching many towns, there are many places around Lake Garda you can go to.

Fans of outdoor activities and natural landscapes will love their holiday here. You can explore sights like Heller Garden which, after the winter break, reopens in March and displays over 3000 plant species together with works of Keith Haring, Roy Lichtenstein, Auguste Rodin, and Fernand Leger among others.

If you are into parks, a gorgeous one is Parco Sigurtà , located close to Peschiera del Garda in the Veneto region. After the usual winter closure, Parco Sigurtà reopens to the public on March 5th. Extending for over 600.000 square meters, enjoying the colors of spring here is a sensory overload starting with the tulip exhibition and a tribute to women on March 6th, 7th, and 8th when all women will enjoy free entrance.

Cinque Terre

For sure, if you are a fan of hiking and outdoor activities, the Cinque Terre is a fantastic place to do that and March offers great views and pleasant temperatures. The weather in March on the Italian Riviera will still be a bit chilly but the hiking routes will open again and the views are great.

Hike through the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Manarola, and take the train to reach nearby Levanto, the gorgeous Portovenere, and sea resorts like Lerici and Tellaro.

Agrigento, Sicily

In March, Agrigento shows off all its natural wonders, trees are blossoming, and spring is improving everyone’s mood. Agrigento is a lovely place to visit in March in Italy because of its annual literary festival known as Mandorlo in Fiore, Italian standing for “blossoming almond tree”. The 2024 edition of the Mandorlo in Fiore festival will take place between the 9th and the 17th of March.

During this festival, you can take part in the many activities organized for the occasion such as live shows and concerts, cooking shows, and educational workshops. Since you are in Agrigento, you really don’t want to miss a visit to the fantastic Valle dei Templi ancient Greek city, one of the highlights of the area.

Ostuni, Puglia

The white town of Ostuni in Puglia, the heel of Italy, is a fantastic town to visit any time of the year but obviously, spring is the best time because of the great weather. Even though March is still a little cold, it’s much less crowded than the rest of the spring months April and May so walking around Ostuni’s alleys is more peaceful and pleasant.

What to book ahead for Italy in March

• International flights. March is not Italy’s highest season but tourists are starting to flock, so if you are limited in your options and this is really the only time you can take your vacation, I recommend booking your airplane ticket well in advance to avoid surprises. If you have served your country, check out the potential military travel discounts on airlines and even hotel chains.
• Domestic travel. The same applies to domestic travel, be it trains or flights. Check out the different railway companies and airlines for availability and prices and make your itinerary ahead of time.
• Hotels. While cities like Rome and Florence have a large choice of hotels so if you can’t find a room in one you can easily switch to another, smaller towns might have fewer options, and booking early is your best bet.
• Restaurants. This is more recommended on days when you can predict some crowds such as Women’s Day or weekends.
• Famous landmarks. Sights like the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and Brunelleschi’s Dome in Florence can get very busy, especially on weekends. Book ahead online to secure your spot.
• Tickets to events. If you are planning to attend important events such as Perugia’s Eurochocolate, booking your tickets ahead is a good idea. They are very crowded and don’t want to wait in vain in line.

What to pack for Italy in March

• Travel documents. If you are from the European Union, your national ID paper will be enough. If you are coming from another continent, your passport is required, and a visa, too, depending on your nationality.
• Umbrella. Don’t forget to pack a foldable umbrella to carry around with you during the day.
• Backpack/crossbody bag. Handy to carry your valuables. A crossbody bag is a better option if you are visiting landmarks like the Colosseum where backpacks are not allowed.
• Camera. Italy is very picturesque, don’t forget your best camera!
• Reusable water bottle. This is very handy to refill with drinkable water from your hotel or restaurant so that you don’t have to buy a new one every time. Tap water in Italy is safe and good, so you can refill your bottle wherever you are.
• Creams and skincare products. Not always hotels include face creams and skincare products so better you pack your own.
• Medicines. In Italian pharmacies, you are going to find everything, but if you need medicines that require a prescription, I suggest you pack them from home as pharmacies might not be allowed to give them to you.

What to wear in March in Italy

• Underwear tops. These are great for layering, crucial in Italy in March.
• Sweaters/jumpers. March in Italy still requires heavy clothing, so sweaters and jumpers are the way to go.
• Long-sleeve tops. Wearing a top underneath your sweater is also great for layering, the secret to a comfortable trip to Italy in March.
• Winter coat or jacket. The warm season is coming but it’s not here yet, so a coat or winter jacket is still necessary, especially in the evening but sometimes also during the day. Also, keep in mind that the weather changes depending on the region and the north is always colder than the south.
• Lighter jacket. When outside it’s warm and sunny, particularly in the early afternoon, a light jacket might be preferable to a heavy coat.
• Walking shoes. A must wherever in Italy you go.
• Ankle boots. An extra pair of shoes is recommended and since it might rain, ankle boots are a good choice.
• Socks/tights. Not really time for barefoot sandals, so socks are necessary, or tights if you wear a skirt.
• Warm trousers. Very warm days at the end of the month might call for light spring trousers, but early days in northern regions still require wool or heavy cotton trousers.
• Hat and scarf. I suggest you pack a hat and a scarf to be sure. I use them all the way through May.
• Sunglasses. That’s right, the sun starts to be bright enough to make sunglasses a necessary item to pack.

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Discover the Magic of Italy in March: Your Ultimate Guide

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: December 6, 2023
• Post category: Italy

March in Italy is a magical time to visit. As a shoulder season, it offers the perfect balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices. While the temperatures can vary across different regions, ranging from chilly to balmy, it’s an ideal time to explore both indoor attractions and outdoor beauty.

Whether you’re interested in the historic streets of Rome , the scenic landscapes of Tuscany, the coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast , or the cultural immersion in Sicily, Italy in March has something for everyone. Embrace the unpredictable weather, immerse yourself in local festivals, and discover the charm of Italy in spring .

Key Takeaways:

• March in Italy is considered a shoulder season, offering milder weather and fewer crowds.
• Temperatures in different regions range from chilly to balmy, making it a great time for indoor attractions and outdoor exploration.
• Italy in March provides a diverse range of experiences, from historic cities and cultural events to scenic landscapes and coastal beauty.
• Be aware of holidays like Carnival and Easter, which can bring increased tourism and higher prices in certain areas.
• Pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures and embrace the beauty of Italy in March .

Weather in Italy in March

In March, Italy experiences a transition from winter to spring, making it an exciting time to visit. The weather in Italy varies depending on the region, but overall, it is considered mild. The average temperatures range from 35-60°F (2-16°C) in different parts of the country. Northern Italy tends to be colder, while southern Italy is relatively warmer. It’s important to pack layers and be prepared for possible rain.

March in Italy is a great time to explore indoor attractions and museums. With the milder weather, you can comfortably stroll through art galleries, visit historical sites, and marvel at the architectural wonders of Italy. Additionally, March brings the blossoming of flowers in outdoor spaces like gardens and parks, adding to the scenic beauty of the country.

While the weather can be unpredictable, March offers a unique travel experience in Italy. With fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season, you can enjoy a more relaxed and immersive journey. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history, or simply savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine, the mild weather in Italy in March provides the perfect backdrop for your adventures.

Holidays & Festivals in Italy in March

March in Italy is a time of celebration and cultural immersion, as the country comes alive with holidays and festivals. Two major holidays that can fall in March are Carnival and Easter. Carnival, known as Carnevale in Italian, is a vibrant and colorful event that often begins in February and extends into March. It is celebrated with parades, costume parties, and street performances in cities like Venice , Viareggio, and Ivrea. Easter, a moving holiday, sometimes falls in late March and is a significant religious celebration marked with processions, special church services, and traditional feasts.

Aside from Carnival and Easter, there are other festivals that take place in March, offering unique cultural experiences. International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8th, is a day to honor and appreciate women’s achievements and contributions. This day is marked by various events, concerts, and exhibitions across Italy. Another notable festival in March is Saint Joseph’s Day, celebrated on March 19th. It is a religious holiday dedicated to Saint Joseph, and in Sicily, it is celebrated with street processions, feasts, and the creation of elaborate and intricate altars.

In addition to these holidays, March in Italy offers various other events and activities. The Open Monuments Weekend takes place in March, providing access to usually closed monuments, palaces, and archaeological sites. It is a unique opportunity to explore Italy’s rich heritage and history. Wine conferences, marathons, and other cultural events can also be found throughout the country in March, adding to the excitement and diversity of the travel experience.

Why Visit Italy in March?

March can be an ideal time to visit Italy for several reasons. Firstly, it’s considered a shoulder season, meaning there are fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience. Additionally, prices for flights and accommodations are typically lower, making it a budget-friendly choice. If you’re interested in indoor attractions such as museums and shopping, March is a great time to explore without the summer heat or the winter chill. However, it’s important to be aware of holidays like Carnival and Easter, which can bring higher prices and larger crowds in certain areas.

Aside from the practical benefits, visiting Italy in March also offers unique experiences. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 35-60°F (2-16°C) in different parts of the country. This makes it pleasant for outdoor activities like exploring the charming streets of Rome, hiking along the picturesque Amalfi Coast, or immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of Tuscany. March is also a month filled with cultural celebrations and festivals, adding vibrancy to your travel experience. Whether it’s witnessing the colorful Carnival festivities or attending local events like the Open Monuments Weekend, there’s always something exciting happening in Italy in March.

Moreover, visiting Italy in March allows you to enjoy the country’s iconic attractions without the crowds. Popular landmarks such as the Colosseum in Rome or the leaning tower of Pisa are more accessible, giving you the chance to fully appreciate their historical significance. You can also indulge in Italy’s renowned cuisine and wine without long waiting times at restaurants. Whether you’re savoring a traditional pasta dish in a local trattoria or exploring the flavors of Sicilian street food, March offers a more intimate dining experience. Overall, visiting Italy in March combines affordability, pleasant weather, and cultural richness, making it a delightful time to explore this captivating country.

Exploring Tuscany in March

Tuscany, located in central Italy, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of picturesque landscapes, historic cities, and delicious cuisine. Visiting Tuscany in March offers a unique experience, as the region begins to awaken from winter and showcases its natural beauty.

The mild weather in March makes it an ideal time to explore the enchanting cities of Florence , Siena , and Pisa without the summer crowds. You’ll have the opportunity to visit iconic attractions such as the majestic Duomo in Florence, the historic Piazza del Campo in Siena, and the leaning tower of Pisa. The charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture of these cities create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for leisurely strolls and immersing yourself in the rich history of Tuscany.

One of the highlights of visiting Tuscany in March is witnessing the blossoming of flowers and the vibrant colors that adorn the region’s countryside. The rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves come to life, creating breathtaking landscapes that are a delight for nature lovers and photographers. Exploring the countryside on foot or by bike allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of Tuscany in its early spring splendor.

Table: Festivals and Events in Tuscany in March

During your visit to Tuscany in March , you can also immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in festivals and events. Festa di San Giovanni Decollato in Florence celebrates the city’s patron saint with processions, historical reenactments, and traditional food. Festa di San Giuseppe in Siena honors Saint Joseph with parades and street performances. These festive occasions provide a glimpse into the traditions and customs of Tuscany.

In summary, March is a wonderful time to explore Tuscany. From the historic cities to the breathtaking countryside, there is something for every traveler. Whether you’re indulging in the art and culture of Florence, savoring the iconic Tuscan cuisine, or simply taking in the scenic landscapes, Tuscany in March offers a unique and memorable experience.

Discovering Rome in March

March is the perfect time to explore the eternal city of Rome. With mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season, you can enjoy the iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed. From visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum to exploring the Vatican City, there are plenty of things to do and see in Rome in March .

One of the highlights of March in Rome is the annual Marathon, which attracts runners from around the world. You can witness the excitement and energy as participants race through the historic streets of the city. Additionally, Rome celebrates Saint Joseph’s Day in March, with festivals, markets, and cultural events taking place throughout the city. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions and experience the vibrant spirit of Rome.

March is also a time when the city’s parks and gardens come alive with the blooming of flowers. You can take leisurely strolls through the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese or enjoy the panoramic views from the Janiculum Hill. The mild temperatures make outdoor sightseeing pleasant, and you can take your time exploring the city’s many hidden gems.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere of the city, Rome in March offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of the eternal city.

Coastal Beauty in Amalfi Coast in March

Visiting the Amalfi Coast in March offers a more tranquil experience, as it is considered the shoulder season with fewer tourists compared to the summer months. While swimming and sunbathing may not be ideal due to the weather, there are still plenty of reasons to explore this stunning region.

The mild temperatures in March make it an ideal time for scenic hikes along the rugged coastline, allowing you to appreciate the dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns. The charming coastal towns of Positano , Amalfi, and Ravello can be explored without the crowds, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in their beauty. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets, admiring the colorful houses, or indulging in the delicious local cuisine, the Amalfi Coast in March offers a slower pace and a chance to savor the coastal charm.

“The Amalfi Coast is a place where the beauty of nature meets the enchantment of history. Exploring it in March allows you to truly appreciate its unique allure without the bustling crowds.”

One of the highlights of the Amalfi Coast is the world-famous Path of the Gods , a scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the azure Mediterranean Sea. March provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities, allowing you to embark on this unforgettable adventure. Additionally, you can visit the iconic Amalfi Cathedral, stroll through the lemon groves of Sorrento, or take a boat tour to the stunning island of Capri.

Table: Average Temperatures in Amalfi Coast in March

As shown in the table, the average temperatures in the Amalfi Coast range from 58-61°F (14-16°C) during March. While it may be slightly cooler, the mild weather allows for comfortable exploration and outdoor activities. Just be sure to pack layers and a light jacket to stay prepared for changing temperatures.

Overall, visiting the Amalfi Coast in March offers a chance to experience its coastal beauty in a more peaceful setting. Whether you’re captivated by the stunning landscapes, enchanted by the charming towns, or simply seeking a serene getaway, the Amalfi Coast in March is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Cultural Immersion in Sicily in March

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. In March, the island experiences mild temperatures, making it an excellent time to explore its cities, archaeological sites, and landscapes. Places like Palermo, Taormina, and Siracusa come alive with festivals and events. You can visit ancient ruins, medieval towns, and sample the local cuisine. Sicily’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic Mount Etna to beautiful beaches, offer opportunities for outdoor activities. March allows for a cultural immersion in Sicilian traditions, history, and scenery.

Immerse in Sicilian Festivals

Sicily in March is a time of vibrant festivals and events that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage. One of the most famous is the Feast of Saint Joseph, celebrated on March 19th. The city of Salemi in western Sicily hosts a grand procession and prepares traditional sweets known as “cuddureddi” in honor of Saint Joseph. Another notable festival is the “Infiorata” in Noto, where the streets are adorned with intricate flower carpets, creating a colorful and fragrant spectacle. These festivals provide a unique opportunity to witness Sicilian traditions and customs up close.

In addition to the cultural experiences, Sicily’s natural beauty shines in March. The countryside bursts with vibrant colors as flowers bloom across the landscapes. It’s the perfect time to explore the scenic coastal areas, take leisurely hikes through the countryside, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. Sicily’s diverse cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood, delicious pastries, and unique regional dishes awaiting discovery.

Whether you’re intrigued by ancient history, fascinated by cultural traditions, or simply drawn to the beauty of nature, Sicily in March offers a captivating journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

March Travel Tips for Italy

Traveling to Italy in March offers a unique experience, with milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. To make the most of your trip, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

Be Prepared for Variable Weather

March in Italy is a transition period, so the weather can be variable. It’s important to pack layers and be prepared for changing temperatures. While some days may be mild and sunny, others can be chilly and damp. Checking the forecast before your trip can help you plan accordingly.

Awareness of Holidays and Festivals

Although March is considered a shoulder season, be aware of holidays and festivals that can bring increased tourism and crowds to certain areas. Carnival and Easter, in particular, can lead to higher prices and larger crowds. Booking accommodations and attractions in advance is recommended to secure availability and potentially save money.

Explore Indoor Attractions and Cultural Events

March is a great time to explore Italy’s indoor attractions, such as museums and galleries, without the summer heat or winter chill. Many cities also host cultural events and festivals during this month, providing opportunities to immerse in the local culture. Embrace the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Italy during the shoulder season.

By following these travel tips, you can have a memorable and enjoyable experience exploring Italy in March. Whether you’re visiting Tuscany, Rome, the Amalfi Coast, or Sicily, embrace the beauty of Italy in spring and discover all that this wonderful country has to offer.

Embracing the Beauty of Italy in March

Italy in March offers a chance to embrace the country’s beauty without the peak tourist season crowds. From the magical landscapes of Tuscany to the historic sites of Rome, there is something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in art and culture, delicious cuisine, or scenic coastlines, Italy in March provides a diverse range of experiences.

Take advantage of the milder weather and explore the indoor attractions, museums, and galleries. Immerse yourself in local festivals and events. Embrace the charm of Italy in spring , with blooming flowers and vibrant atmospheres in every city and town.

“Italy in March is a hidden gem for travelers looking for an authentic experience. With fewer crowds, you have the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the locals. From sipping espresso at a local café to exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, March travel in Italy is full of surprises and discoveries.” – Travel enthusiast

The Must-See Destinations in Italy in March

• Tuscany: Explore the enchanting landscapes, visit the art masterpieces in Florence, and indulge in the finest wines and local delicacies.
• Rome: Discover the ancient ruins, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Eternal City.
• Amalfi Coast: Take in the breathtaking coastal views, explore the charming towns, and savor the fresh seafood.
• Sicily: Immerse yourself in the rich history, visit the impressive archaeological sites, and enjoy the unique blend of flavors in Sicilian cuisine.

March is the best time to visit Italy for an unforgettable travel experience. With mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant festivals, it offers the perfect balance of affordability and local immersion. Whether you choose to explore the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany, the historic sites of Rome , the coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast , or the cultural richness of Sicily , Italy in March has something for everyone.

One of the key Italy travel tips for March is to pack layers to adapt to the variable weather. While the temperatures range from 35-60°F (2-16°C) in different regions, it’s important to be prepared for possible rain and fluctuating temperatures. It’s also advisable to check the forecast and book accommodations and attractions in advance, especially during holidays like Carnival and Easter.

Embrace the charm of Italy in spring by exploring indoor attractions, museums, and galleries. Immerse yourself in the local festivals and events that make Italy come alive during this time of the year. From the art and culture to the delicious cuisine and picturesque coastlines, Italy in March is a delightful blend of beauty and authenticity.

So, pack your bags, get ready to embrace the unpredictable weather, and embark on an incredible journey to discover the magic of Italy in March – the best time to visit this captivating country.

What is the weather like in Italy in March?

In March, the weather in Italy can vary, ranging from chilly and damp to balmy by the end of the month. The average temperatures in different regions of Italy in March are: Northern Italy: 35-55°F (2-13°C), Central Italy: 45-60°F (7-16°C), and Southern Italy: 50-60°F (10-16°C).

Is March a good time to visit Italy?

March is considered a shoulder season in Italy, which means it’s one of the best times to visit. The weather is mild, prices are lower, and crowds are less dense compared to the high season.

Are there any holidays or festivals in Italy in March?

Yes, Italy celebrates holidays like Carnival and Easter in March. These holidays can bring increased tourism and celebration, leading to higher prices and larger crowds in certain areas. Other festivals like International Women’s Day and Saint Joseph’s Day also take place in March.

Why should I visit Italy in March?

March in Italy offers several advantages for travelers. It’s a shoulder season with fewer crowds, lower prices, and mild weather. It’s a great time to explore indoor attractions and museums without the summer heat or winter chill.

What are some recommended destinations to visit in Italy in March?

Tuscany, Rome, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily are popular destinations to visit in Italy in March. Tuscany offers beautiful landscapes and less crowded cities like Florence and Siena. Rome allows for outdoor sightseeing and hosts festivals and events. The Amalfi Coast provides a tranquil experience with scenic hikes along the coastline, while Sicily offers a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Any travel tips for visiting Italy in March?

When visiting Italy in March, it’s important to be prepared for variable weather and pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Check the forecast before your trip. Be aware of holidays like Carnival and Easter that may impact prices and crowds. Booking accommodations and attractions in advance is recommended. Embrace the indoor attractions and cultural events that Italy offers during the shoulder season.

What makes Italy in March special?

Italy in March combines the best of both worlds – affordable prices and a chance to fully immerse in the local atmosphere. The mild weather allows for outdoor exploration and enjoying the beauty of the country. Festivals and events add vibrancy to the travel experience, and the blooming of flowers adds charm to the landscapes.

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10 best places to visit in Italy in March 

Last updated on March 13th, 2024.

March in Italy is a good time to plan a visit.  

Much of the country remains chilly yet winter sunshine is prevalent in many places. On top of this, many destinations aren’t as busy as they are in summer. 

If March is a month that you’re thinking of visiting Italy, stick around till the end of this post. I’ll be listing 10 of the best places to visit in Italy in March. 

It will cover warm places in Italy in March and some of the best things to do in Italy in March. 

Some great places to add to your Italy bucket list , use this post to help plan your Italy trip . 

Annual holidays in Italy in March 

There are two notable public holidays in Italy that are worth noting. They’re unlikely to affect your travel plans but I think it’s useful to know about them. 

March 17 marks the Anniversary of the Unification of Italy ( Anniversario dell’Unità d’Italia ). Rome is likely the only place where you might see a small celebration in the city to mark the holiday. The day celebrates the birth of Italy as a modern nation state.  

March 19 is St. Joseph’s Day in Italy, more commonly known around the world as Father’s Day ( festa del papà ). Again, this won’t affect your travel plans but it’s useful to know about. 

How is the weather in Italy in March? 

As I outlined in ‘ when is the best time to visit Italy ’ the weather in Italy has become unpredictable.   Because of this, make sure to pack an umbrella, poncho and other useful travel essentials for Italy . 

10 best places to visit in Italy in March: Rome 

Rome in March isn’t a bad time to visit.  

Usual daytime temperatures in Rome in March hover around 60°F (15°C)* during the day to about 44°F (7°C) at night. Saying that, packing good outerwear is essential as temperatures can dip and it can feel quite cold. 

The plus of visiting Rome in March is that it may not yet be as busy. I say ‘may’ because Rome attracts so many visitors it’s rare to find a truly quiet period. However, you’re likely to encounter less visitors with children given that school is still in session. 

Another thing to note is the Easter holidays. They typically take place in April, meaning that you’ll avoid visiting Rome during a peak, and costly, period. 

Because of this, it makes Rome one of the best places to visit in Italy in March. 

Things to do in March in Rome 

If it’s your first time visiting Rome, needless to say you’ll want to see the city’s main attractions. 

And with comfortable temperatures in March in Rome, I think that it makes sightseeing more enjoyable. 

Some of my favorite top attractions to see in Rome include: 

• Booking a skip-the-line tour of the Colosseum     
• Seeing the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel     
• Booking tickets to enter St. Peter’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Pietro )   
• Getting tickets to see the Pantheon    
• Exploring the Roman Forum     
• Touring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus    
• Taking a guided tour of the Borghese Gallery ( Galleria Borghese )  
• Visiting the Trevi Fountain    
• Walking up the Spanish Steps   
• Taking a guided tour of the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo    
• Exploring the Capuchin Crypt     

Alongside the major sights in Rome, the city also hosts several annual events in March. They include: 

The Roma-Ostia half marathon ( Roma Ostia Mezza Maratona )  

The race starts in the EUR district of Rome and finishes near the beaches of Ostia. 

Free entry to Rome’s state museums 

Free is a word that we all like to hear.  

And on the first Sunday of every month, visitors can enjoy free entry to many of Rome’s museums. They include state museums like the Colosseum to religious museums like the Vatican . There is likely a specific timeframe for each museum so check the full list of participating museums for more details.  

Palermo 

Palermo Sicily is one of the best places to visit in Italy in March for several reasons. 

For one, the temperature in the capoluogo of Sicily tends to be milder than its northern counterparts. 

However, saying this doesn’t mean that it’s time to break out the flip flops and shorts. March in Sicily can still get quite cold. Depending on what part of Sicily, some areas can experience temperatures ranging between 41°F (5°C) to 50°F (10°C) at night. 

Pros of visiting Palermo in March 

Palermo in March is a quieter time of the year to visit. Weather wise, daytime temperatures can reach 61°F (16°C) and fall to 50°F (10°C) at night. 

The moderate March temperatures make for a more comfortable experience when visiting Palermo’s best attractions. We spent 2 days in Palermo in August and the high temperatures were unbearable.  

There’s no chance of this happening when visiting Palermo in March. 

Some of my favorite things to do in Palermo include: 

• Exploring Palermo Cathedral 
• Visiting Quattro Canti 
• Exploring the Royal Palace and the Palatine Chapel ( Palazzo Reale & La Cappella Palatina ) 
• Visiting Teatro Massimo  
• Trying the street food in Palermo  
• Browsing the produce at Ballarò (market) 
• Taking a trip to Monreale Cathedral  

Naples 

The city of incredible food, mind-blowing churches and an electric atmosphere, there’s never a dull moment in Naples Italy. 

One of the best places to visit in Italy in March, Naples makes a great early spring getaway.  

We spent one day in Naples and it wasn’t nearly long enough.

The weather in Naples in March is moderate with daytime temperatures around 58°F (14°C) and nighttime temperatures about 48°F (9°C). It can feel chilly especially if near the coast overlooking the Gulf of Naples. 

Things to do in Naples in March 

Many of Naples’ March events tend to revolve around religious festivities. And during this month, you’ll likely find several events celebrating the run-up to Easter.

These can range from special masses in churches in Naples to free concerts in the public square, Piazza Plebiscito. 

My favorite things to do in Naples Italy include: 

• Visiting the Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale di Napoli) 
• Admiring the architecture (and shops) inside Galleria Umberto I 
• Exploring the Spanish Quarter (I Quartieri Spagnoli) and have a drink at a local bar 
• Spending time inside Naples’ Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli) 
• Eating any type of Neapolitan pizza whether inside a pizzeria or at a food seller in town 
• Visiting the Museum Chapel Sansevero (Museo Cappella Sansevero) — booking tickets in advance is essential 

Map of Italy

Pompeii and Caserta 

Not far from Naples are two of the best places to visit in Italy in March.  

The archaeological site of Pompeii is one of the most popular, and fascinating, attractions in Italy.  

In brief, the city was destroyed by a volcanic eruption from Vesuvius in 79 CE. Today, the well-preserved site tells the tragic story of Pompeii and the people that perished that day. 

March is a good time to visit Pompeii. The mild temperatures of 57°F (14°C) to 68°F (20°C) make it comfortable and more enjoyable to fully enjoy the site.  

There are several ways to visit Pompeii. Naples to Pompeii is a straightforward journey and one you can do by car or public transport. 

Rome to Pompeii is another popular route and is also very doable. 

The third way to visit Pompeii is by joining a tour. They take care of all your transport needs, meaning all you have to do is enjoy the experience.

Some Pompeii tours to consider booking include: 

• Pompeii ruins – skip the line small group tour  
• Pompeii – small group tour with an archeologist    
• Pompeii archeological site entry ticket  
• Pompeii 2-hour private tour and skip-the-line tickets  

Caserta 

Caserta is home to the 19th century Royal Palace of Caserta ( Reggia di Caserta ). A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the palace is considered one of the finest examples of Italian Baroque and neoclassical architecture.  

The complex covers a humungous area of about 47,000sqm. It includes the main palace building, a large park and the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli. 

Its park was influenced by the gardens of Versailles in France , a feature you may recognize from the photo. 

Ultimately, this magnificent palace deserves sufficient time to fully appreciate its opulent interiors and picturesque park. Consider booking your tickets in advance and learn more about the Reggia di Caserta on a guided tour. 

Lecce 

Lecce is probably one of the friendliest places I’ve ever visited in Italy.  

The southern Italian city in Puglia makes the list of the best places to visit in March for good reason. 

Weather in Lecce in March can range from maximum highs of 54°F (12°C) to 64°F (18°C) during the day. At night, this range can fall between 41°F (5°C) and 50°F (10°C). Like Palermo, Lecce weather in March can get chillier than you might expect.  

The moderate weather makes a visit to the city nicknamed the ‘Florence of the south’ a pleasant one. 

Lecce is most famous for its Baroque architecture, particularly the use of local limestone called Lecce stone. Some notable Lecce attractions built with Lecce stone include the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. 

Other unmissable things to do in Lecce include: 

• Touring Lecce’s baroque architectural sights  
• Joining a street food and walking tour  
• Visiting the 2,000-year-old Roman Theater of Lecce ( Teatro Romano di Lecce ) 

Syracuse 

The Sicilian city of Syracuse ( Siracusa ) may be one of the warmest places in Italy in March. Syracuse already holds the title of the warmest place in winter in Italy so it wouldn’t be that surprising. 

March weather in Syracuse Sicily can range from highs of 75°F (24°C) during the day to 52°F (11°C) at night. Its higher temperatures are likely attributed to its position being in the south of Sicily.  

Like Naples, many events happening in Syracuse in March will likely have a religious angle and be connected to Easter. 

Aside from these events, Syracuse Sicily has plenty of top sights to see .

These include: 

• Visiting the Greek Theater of Syracuse ( Teatro Greco di Siracusa ) 
• Exploring Ortygia ( Ortigia ) island 
• Seeing Syracuse Cathedral ( Duomo di Siracusa ) 
• Admiring the papyrus in the Fountain of Arethusa ( Fonte Aretusa ) 

Taormina 

The pretty coastal town of Taormina is one of the most visited places on the east coast of Sicily . 

Even during the quieter months of the year, Taormina is never lacking in visitor numbers (read things to know about Taormina ). 

But if you’re planning on visiting Taormina, March isn’t a bad time of the year to go. The weather in Taormina in March won’t be like summer temperatures but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. 

Maximum highs in Taormina in March can range from 63°F (17°C) to 75°F (24°C). At night, temperatures can dip to around 52°F (11°C). 

These make for very pleasant temperatures for seeing the attractions in Taormina. It’s also why I added Taormina as one of the best places to visit in March. With our home in Sicily just 20 minutes away, Taormina is a town we frequently visit.  

Some of my favorite things to do in Taormina include: 

• Walking the sandbar to reach Isola Bella 
• Strolling through the main street of Via Roma in Taormina’s town center 
• Watch the sunset from Belvedere di Taormina 
• Watching a concert at the Ancient Theater of Taormina ( Teatro Antico di Taormina ) 

Bologna 

With the weather in Italy still veering on the chilly side in March, one city worth considering seeing is Bologna. 

March temperatures in Bologna can range from 58°F (14°C) during the day to around 39°F (4°C) at night. 

The moderate weather in Bologna in March makes it ideal for visiting the city’s sights. What’s more, the cooler temperatures mean you can indulge in some of the city’s heartiest and richest dishes.  

Bologna, and other parts of Emilia-Romagna, is known for having some of the best mouthwatering Italian comfort food . Keep warm with a big bowl of tortellini in brodo or a generous serving of tagliatelle con ragù alla Bolognese.  

Some fun things do in Bologna in March and year-round include: 

• Taking a tour of Bologna’s city center and seeing sights like Piazza Maggiore and the Tower of Asinelli ( Torre degli Asinelli ). 
• Joining a food tour of the city  
• Visiting the Sanctuary of the Madonna of St. Luke ( Santuario Madonna di San Luca ) 

Venice 

Is there ever a bad time to visit Venice? Well, the answer (for me at least) is yes and that’s during July or August. 

Extremely hot temperatures, crowds of people on and around every corner, Venice just isn’t enjoyable in summer. 

Give me Venice in winter , or a quieter season, and I’m there in a flash. It’s why I’ve placed Venice as one of the best places to visit in Italy in March. 

Weather in Venice in March 

The weather in Venice in March, like much of northern Italy, remains on the cooler side. 

To give you an idea, temperatures in March in Venice Italy can reach around 55°F (13°C) during the day. At night, this can dip to about 43°F (6°C).

But the good thing about visiting Venice in March is that you won’t have to second guess what to pack. Dress warmly, bring comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella, because early spring can be unpredictable. 

Things to do in Venice  

March in Venice comes after Carnevale in February and just before Easter in April. Crowds will be fewer, and you might just be able to fully enjoy the city and its many attractions.  

For first-time visitors to Venice, I usually suggest seeing some of the following. This is merely a guideline so choose the attractions that you most want to see. 

• Taking a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace ( Palazzo Ducale )  
• Visiting the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Marco ) 
• Enjoying a gondola ride on the Grand Canal  
• Visiting the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello  
• Seeing the exhibits at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection    
• Take a guided tour of the Academy Gallery ( Gallerie dell’Accademia ) 

The Dolomites 

Visiting the Dolomites ( Dolomiti ) in March is an interesting time of the year.  

Some parts of the mountain range, its surrounding lakes and towns may still have traces of snow. Other parts around the Dolomites and South Tyrol may look more springlike in appearance. 

It’s for this reason why the Dolomites features on this list of best places to visit in Italy in March. While still cold, there’s a good chance of experiencing winter sunshine in March in the Dolomites.  

Things to do in the Dolomites in March 

The region offers visitors a range of different activities to choose from. Ski resorts in the Dolomites at higher altitudes may still be operating in early March. Crowds, too, may also be fewer during this period. 

For non-skiers and winter sports enthusiasts, the milder March weather is a good time to visit towns around the Dolomites . We visited several on our Dolomites road trip during winter and enjoyed every second. 

Another plus about visiting the Dolomites in March is that you’ll know exactly what to pack.  

This area of northern Italy around the mountains tends to be cool for most of the year. Because of this, there’s no chance of packing the wrong clothing and footwear. 

What are your thoughts on this post of the best places to visit in Italy in March? Are there any places that stand out to you on the list? Let me know in the comments below. 

*Please note that temperatures listed are estimates based on previous years. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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36 thoughts on “ 10 best places to visit in Italy in March  ”

We are looking to go away for my birthday which is April, but are open with our dates starting in March so will have to look at Italy

That’s great, I hope you find some inspiration from this list

I didn’t know March is a great time to visit Italy. Thanks for sharing this information with us.

You’re welcome

Italy in March sounds wonderful, we are all in need of some warming spring sunshine by then!

Yes! And there is usually some sunny days in March to enjoy 😀

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Best Places to Visit in Italy in March 2022

March marks the transition between winter and spring and it shows great climatic variability and instability: be prepared to rapidly switch from warm sun to a shower of rain and always bring a wind jacket and a sweater with you!

If Easter is in March, you’d better avoid the most popular destinations, because they tend to get very crowded during that particular week of the year. In March, there are two special events in Italy: Women’s Day (March 8th), when it’s a common habit to offer a mimosa to ladies of any age, and Father’s Day (March 19th) when it’s a popular custom to eat “zeppole” (deep-fried dough filled with custard and sprinkled with icing sugar), especially in Naples and Southern Italy in general.

March is the perfect month for getting active and enjoying the open air after the cold winter. It’s the ideal period for sport and sightseeing.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

Best things to do in Italy in March

1. Your favorite outdoor activity in Riva del Garda (Trentino Alto Adige)

What : Riva del Garda is a small town on Garda Lake in Trentino Alto Adige. It’s a popular mountain destination and it’s especially loved by adventure and nature lovers. Here you can choose among many activities such as trekking, climbing, running, biking, diving, kayaking, and sailing.

What to see: Ponale trail, which is one of the most panoramic trails of the area, the church of S. Barbara, which is perched on top of a high hill, and the Fortress, which is an old castle with a drawbridge it houses an interesting archeological museum.

How long : 4-5 days

Why March : even though it’s still quite cold in the mountains, nature is starting to blossom and it’s nice to be in the open air again after winter.

Weather : the average temperature is 8°C with an alternation of sun and clouds.

Practical tips : have a look at this map showing all the outdoor activities you can do in Riva del Garda 

2. See the famous leaning tower of Pisa (Tuscany)

What: Pisa is one of the main cities of Tuscany and it has become worldwide famous for its iconic leaning tower. The construction works began in 1173, but after having built the first two floors, the tower started to lean on one side.

Since it did not fall, it was decided that it was ok to complete it, but the project went on for almost 2 centuries, due to the huge difficulties in the construction. The gradient has never ceased to increase and periodical maintenance works are needed!

What to see: the beautiful Square of Miracles is rich in monuments! After visiting the leaning tower, don’t miss the Cathedral dedicated to S. Maria Assunta and the Baptistery with its many sculptures. Other interesting spots are the Knights’ Square in Renaissance style and the monumental cemetery, where the most important local figures are buried.

How long : 1 day trip from Florence

Why March : the arrival of spring it’s the perfect period to go sightseeing and visit the main Italian monuments.

Weather : the average temperature is 12°C with sunny weather

Practical tips : the leaning tower is always very crowded and the line is long, so you’d better arrive towards 8.30-9 a.m. to be sure of entering early. A guided tour is also a very good choice to maximize your time in Pisa. If you are not interested in a tour and want to visit the leaning tower you should buy skip the line tickets here. 

You might want to check:  How to spend one day in Pisa. 

3. Enjoy the arrival of spring in Orcia Valley (Tuscany)

What : Orcia Valley is a countryside area in Tuscany which is characterized by hills, cultivated fields, vineyards, and small villages. It was especially celebrated by the painters of the Renaissance period and it became the symbol of idyllic country life.

What to see: among the most picturesque towns you can visit Pienza (romantic and quiet), Montalcino (to taste its renowned wine called Brunello), and Bagno Vignoni (a popular spa resort).

How long: 1 weekend

Why March : because of its mild climate and the beautiful spring landscape. Most tourists go there in summer, so now you can enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Practical tips : stay at a local farmhouse to make the best out of your weekend in the countryside. Choose a location also offering local wine tastings.

4. Visit the historic towns of San Gimignano & Volterra (Tuscany)

What: these medieval towns are often visited together and they are immersed in the beautiful hilly countryside that is typical of this Region. They are both rich in ancient buildings, towers, narrow alleys, and old city walls. They also keep many traces of the Etruscan period.

What to see: the highlights of San Gimignano are the richly decorated cathedral, the nice Piazza della Cisterna, and the panoramic Montestaffoli Fortress. You can start exploring Volterra from Palazzo dei Priori, which is really similar to Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. Don’t miss the Romanic cathedral and the baptistery and save some time to learn more about the Etruscan civilization at the Guarnacci Museum.

How long: 3-4 days

Why March: to enjoy the surrounding hilly landscape and to be able to visit these two gems without the crowds of tourists arriving later in spring.

Practical tips: choose either Pisa or Siena as the starting points of your visit!

You might also like:

• Things to do in Tuscany.
• The best hilltop towns to visit in Tuscany. 

5. Imagine being a king or a queen for a day at the royal palace of Venaria (Piemonte)

What : this was a former residence of the kings of Italy and it is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It is located close to Turin and it was used as a royal hunting reserve. It is really huge: 80.000 square meters of the palace and 60 hectares of park. Here you’ll learn more about the royal lifestyle and you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful and perfectly maintained park.

What to see : the best option to fully enjoy your visit is taking an audio guide, otherwise, you might miss something or get confused. The most important points of interest are the Honor Court with the Water Theater, the Royal Apartments, the Great Gallery, the Royal Stable, and the park with its central canal and its orchard.

How long: 1day trip from Turin

Why March: the orchard in the park blooms towards the end of the month, so it’s a great period for a visit!

Weather : the average temperature is 12°C with many cloudy and windy days

Practical tips : the best way to enjoy your visit is by renting the audio guide, active both indoor and outdoor. For more information check here.  

6. Enjoy the last snow-shoe walk of the season in Gran Paradiso National Park (Piemonte & Valle d’Aosta)

What : Gran Paradiso National Park offers countless spectacular trails for snowshoeing. The best areas are Orco Valley and Serrù Lake, Soana Valley, Cogne Valley, and the Lillaz Waterfall, Rhêmes Valley, and Valsavarenche.

What to see : one of the best spots to see in late winter/early spring is the frozen Lillaz Waterfall. If you like watching wild animals go to Valsavarenche, where you can admire some wild chamois and ibexes.

How long : 1 weekend

Why March: because it’s the last chance of the year to admire the frozen landscapes of this National Park.

Weather : the average temperature is 2°C with frequent snow. Check the weather forecast before planning your walk and beware of possible avalanches.

Practical tips: if you are not an expert, it’s best to go snow-shoeing with a local guide. 

7. Wander around the Old Town of Naples (Campania)

What: the Old Town of Naples is the largest one in Europe and it covers more than 17Km, which is 15% of the entire city. It is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List and it shows many traces of every historical period, from the Greek era to modern times.  

What to see: the best thing to do to immerse yourself in the authentic local atmosphere is just wandering around the narrow alleys and the picturesque streets of the city center. Another great walk is the underground guided tour leading you to discover a real “city below the city” with its many traces of the Greek and Roman periods as long as some pieces of heritage from World War I and II. Don’t miss the Cathedral and its Museum of the Treasure and save some time to visit the mysterious S. Severo Chapel.

Why March : you can find mild and sunny weather and the light on the sea is already summer-like! Spring is the best period to go sightseeing in Southern Italy to avoid hot weather.

Weather: the average temperature is 13°C with sunny weather

Practical tips: if you plan to spend some days in Naples, buy a Naples Pass. It is a prepaid card allowing you free access to public transport and offering several discounts for restaurants, guided tours, and attractions. For more information check here.  

You might be interested in: 

• 3 days in Naples
• Where to stay in Naples by a local. 

8. Enjoy the arrival of spring on Ischia Island (Campania)

What: Ischia is a small volcanic island located in the Gulf of Naples and it is famous for its natural landscapes and its hot springs. Tourists go there every season to enjoy its baths and its mild climate.

What to see: Maronti beach and its fumaroles, Sorgeto’s Baths to enjoy an open-air swim all year round, the view from the top of Aragonese Castle, and the baroque church of S. Maria Assunta.

Why March: the local natural landscape is particularly beautiful in spring. March is also the perfect time of the year to get ready for the sunny season thanks to a relaxing weekend at the spa!

Weather : the average temperature is 13°C with an alternation of sun and clouds.

Practical tips: choose a hotel including a spa and don’t miss the experience of swimming in the sea surrounded by warm water reaching up to 35°!

9. Trekking on Pantelleria Island (Sicily)

What: Pantelleria is located South of Sicily and it’s only 70Km away from the Tunisian coast. It’s a popular destination for adventure lovers thanks to its wild volcanic landscapes and its 500Km of trekking trails.

What to see: the volcanic lake called “The Mirror of Venus”, which is located inside a former crater in the heart of the island. Another popular spot is the Arch of the Elephant, which is a rocky formation reminding of a proboscis and plunging into the sea. If you like wild places reach Benikulà Cave and try its natural hot steam directly coming out of the rocks.

How long: 1 week

Why March: Scirocco wind starts to blow bringing an early spring

Weather : the average temperature is 13°C with sunny weather

Practical tips: have a look at this updated map to plan your favorite hikes.

10. Visit the picturesque village of Portofino (Liguria)

What: Portofino is a tiny village located near Genoa on the Northern coast of Italy. It is worldwide famous for its glamorous atmosphere and for being one of the favorite destinations of Italian and international celebrities. In summer it’s really crowded, fancy and busy but in other periods it’s just a picturesque and nice fishermen’s village hiding many beautiful pieces of cultural and historical heritage.

What to see: take the time to simply stroll in the streets and sit at a café in the main square to catch some glimpses of authentic local life. Don’t miss the views from the Brown Castle and the Lighthouse and visit the nice churches of S. Giorgio and S. Martino.

How long: 1day trip from Genoa

Why March: to enjoy a quiet and authentic atmosphere avoiding the crowds and the frenzy of the summer months.

Weather : the average temperature is 12°C with frequent rainfalls

Practical information: if you still have some time and it’s a sunny day, enjoy a pleasant scenic walk and reach the beautiful S. Fruttuoso Abbey.

You might want to check out:

• The best places to visit in Italy in September. 
• How to spend 2 weeks in Italy.
• How to spend 10 days in Italy.
• 4 Northern Italy itineraries
• A Southern Italy Itinerary.

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The Best Places in Italy to Visit in March

For those yearning to dive deep into the heart and soul of Italy during the magical springtime, specifically in March, choosing the right destinations can truly make your journey unforgettable. As the winter frost melts away, Italy begins to bask in the gentle warmth and blooming landscapes of early spring, making it a magnificent time to explore the diverse beauty this country has to offer. If you’re searching for the best places in Italy to visit in March, you’ve landed in the right place. From the breath-taking shores of the Amalfi Coast to the historical streets of Florence, let’s guide you through some of Italy’s most captivating spots to visit during this vibrant time of year. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first Italian getaway, make sure to check out valuable insights and tips on our dedicated website at ItalyOnFoot for an unforgettable exploration.

Discover Spring in the Amalfi Coast

When speaking of the Amalfi Coast during March, you’re addressing Italy’s picturesque paradise awakening with vibrant colors and a serene atmosphere. This period is calm before the storm of summer tourists, providing a peaceful yet visually stunning experience for visitors. The Amalfi Coast, with its majestic cliffs descending into the turquoise embrace of the Mediterranean, offers a breathtaking panorama that seems to almost celebrate the arrival of spring. Towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi, with their quaint homes painted in warm hues, appear even more enchanting with the backdrop of budding flowers and clearer skies. It’s an ideal time for long, uninterrupted walks along the coastal paths or leisurely exploration of these charming towns. The relatively cooler weather of March also makes for perfect conditions to indulge in the delicious local cuisine, where freshness is a staple in every succulent dish served.

Days in Florence

Florence in March is a revelation—an enchanting city shedding the last chills of winter, welcoming the first warm kisses of the spring sun. The city, a cradle of the Renaissance, is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate encounter with its unmatched art, architecture, and alleys brimming with centuries of history. The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia, housing some of the most renowned artworks in the world, can be enjoyed at a more leisurely pace. Meanwhile, the streets of Florence are beginning to buzz with outdoor cafés and eateries, inviting visitors to sit down and observe the city’s beauty over a cup of rich Italian coffee or a gelato. The Boboli Gardens and the Bardini Gardens are particularly special during this time, as the first blooms of the season add a splash of color to these historic green spaces, making them picture-perfect spots for those seeking the tranquility and romance of early spring in Florence.

Rome: A Timeless Spring Destination

March is a captivating time to visit Rome, where the past and present seamlessly blend against the canvas of spring’s renewal. The eternal city, with its endless historical treasures, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum, feels particularly alive as the cooler temperatures make way for more pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the outdoors. The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are less crowded, allowing for a more contemplative visit. Additionally, the city’s numerous parks and gardens, such as Villa Borghese, begin to flourish, offering a perfect setting for leisurely strolls or picnics under the early spring sun. Not to mention, Roman food markets and street food scenes are bustling with activity, showcasing seasonal delicacies and fresh produce that promise an authentic gastronomic journey.

Venice: Spring Serenade

Venice in March is a melody composed by quieter canals, softer lights, and a tranquil ambiance that precedes the arrival of the high tourist season. This is the time when Venice reveals its most authentic self. The misty mornings gradually give way to beautifully clear days, allowing the city to shimmer in the spring light. The crowds around iconic landmarks like Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge are thinner, affording visitors a chance to savor the city’s storied pathways and mysterious corners at a more personal pace. Additionally, the Venetian Carnevale often falls in February or early March, offering an extraordinary experience with its grand balls, intricate costumes, and vibrant parades setting the city abuzz with festivity and color. Even after the Carnevale, the city retains a festive atmosphere, filled with the promise of the coming warmth and blooming attractions. 

Sicily: An Early Taste of Summer

Visiting Sicily in March offers an early taste of summer with its relatively warm weather, fewer crowds, and the lush beauty of spring beginning to unfold across the island’s diverse landscapes. It’s a time when you can truly appreciate the ancient sites like the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento or the Roman mosaics in Villa Romana del Casale without the sweltering heat of summer. The cities are alive with local life, from the bustling markets of Palermo to the Baroque elegance of Noto and the vibrant streets of Catania. The countryside blooms with wildflowers, and the coastal areas, though still a bit chilly for swimming, are perfect for tranquil walks. Sicily in March also celebrates various festivals and events, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich traditions and lively culture.

As you can see, Italy’s allure in March knows no bounds, from the serene Amalfi Coast and the enchanting cityscapes of Florence to the timeless allure of Rome, Venice’s quiet charm, and Sicily’s early summer vibes. Each destination shines with its unique blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural vibrancy, making Italy a remarkable country to explore during this transitional season. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in art and history, enjoy scenic landscapes, or indulge in culinary delights, Italy in March presents a palette of experiences awaiting your discovery. So pack your bags and set off on an Italian spring adventure that promises to be as enriching as it is unforgettable.

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Italy in March: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

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Roman Forum in Rome, Italy

With its welcoming springtime weather, March is a fantastic time to visit Italy. As the winter chill gives way to sunny skies, the country comes alive with colorful parades, delicious seasonal produce, and fewer crowds.

In March, much of Italy enjoys warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for sightseeing in Rome's ancient ruins or exploring Venice's canals and piazzas.

While the likes of the Roman Forum, Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Michaelangelo’s David are always exciting experiences in Italy, this guide highlights some of the best places to visit and top things to do in March, from hiking Mount Etna to viewing spectacular floral displays and more.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Italy

Weather in Italy in March

Where to go in italy in march, what to do in italy in march, plan your trip to italy in march.

Tuscany, Italy

Average Temperatures in Rome, Italy: 63°F High • 52°F Low

March brings increasingly warm and sunny weather across much of Italy. While northern mountainous areas still see some rain and snow early in the month, cities like Rome and Naples enjoy over 10 hours of sunshine and temperatures of around 60°F during the day.

The pleasant weather makes March an ideal time for sightseeing, dining al fresco, vineyard tours, and views of vibrant wildflowers spread across the Italian peninsula.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Italy for a Wine Tour

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Grand Canal in Venice, Italy

Venice • Best Place for Sightseeing

As the crowds of summer are still months away, March is the perfect time to explore magical Venice. The city emerges from the winter fog as sunny days allow the marble architecture to gleam brightly once more.

Crisp air carries the sound of gondoliers’ songs and visitors can meander maze-like streets without fighting swarms of tourists. With festivals, pleasant weather, and relative tranquility, early spring grants travelers a glimpse into Venice’s enchanting past.

Learn more: 10 Most Romantic Places in Italy for Couples

Sicily • Best Place for Great Weather

As much of Italy continues to shake off winter's chill in March, the island of Sicily begins to bloom with pleasant springtime conditions. Sicily boasts highs around 60°F across its stunning coastal cities, historic ruins, and rolling hillsides during this shoulder season. Clear skies also create excellent visibility to admire Mount Etna’s dramatic, often mildly active peaks, and the wildflowers dotting a countryside rich with Greek and Roman artifacts.

With fewer crowds than in summer and far more sunshine than in winter, Sicily comes alive in March for hiking ancient trails, cycling through groves of olive and citrus trees, and exploring palazzos, vineyards, and markets at a comfortable pace.

Learn more: How to Visit Greece and Italy: 10, 14 and 21-Day Itinerary Ideas

Tuscany • Best Place for Families with Children

With its idyllic countryside and rich history, Tuscany enthralls adults and children. The warm daylight hours in March enable full days of exploration, when families can let their imaginations run wild in the medieval fortress city of Siena, climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and immerse themselves in art in Florence’s Uffizi Gallery.

Tuscany comes alive in March, with abundant wildflowers carpeting rolling hills, perfect for picnics under blossom-filled trees. With fewer crowds and better value than in summer, March welcomes parents to relax over wine tastings while the kids play in ancient piazzas or pick spring produce at local farms.

Learn more: 5 Dishes to Try on Your Trip to Tuscany

Sardinia • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

With warmer weather approaching, Sardinia’s miles of breathtaking coastline and scenic mountain hikes are open for travelers seeking tranquil trails and unspoiled beaches before peak season.

Along the way, visitors can discover Sardinia’s captivating cultural sites, vineyards, and seasonal cuisine with fewer crowds and more availability. March provides a peaceful glimpse into authentic island life before the busy summer months.

Learn more: Top 7 Things to Do in Southern Italy

Siena • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Enchanting Siena casts a romantic spell in March, when its medieval city centers and the Tuscan countryside bloom with life. Meander hand-in-hand past frescoed palaces and through vibrant markets and winding alleys, or linger over meals in intimate trattorias before an afternoon escape to hedge-lined wineries nestled in the hills.

As Siena shakes off winter’s quiet, spring’s mild climate and awakening charm make it an alluring retreat in which couples can bond beneath blue Italian skies.

Learn more: Our 9 Best Romantic Trips to Italy

Head for the hills and millions of wildflowers

In March, Italy’s rolling hills bloom brightly with millions of wildflowers. Exploring the countryside allows visitors to soak up brilliant carpets of wild irises mingling with fiery-red poppies and sunny daffodils along rugged trails and in vineyards.

The phenomenon of Mediterranean wildflowers carpeting idyllic rural landscapes reaches its crescendo along the Cinque Terre coastline in March. Renowned for its charm, with cliffside pastel villages perched dramatically above the sea, the region unveils halls of vibrant blooms towering above hiking trails connecting the five villages in early spring.

Watch snow and lava collide at Mt. Etna

A beguiling sight that’s unique to the volcanic peaks of Sicily occurs during late winter, when Mount Etna’s frequent mild eruptions collide with freezing summit temperatures to create fleeting icy structures.

Hiking Mount Etna in March presents intrepid travelers the chance to witness the volcanic mountain spewing molten lava, while simultaneously, crystalline icicles and mounds of snow cling to the higher elevations. The striking juxtaposition of freezing and fiery extremes evokes an alien, almost post-apocalyptic tableau. Etna remains one of Earth’s most restless volcanoes.

Step back in time at Pompeii

March welcomes travelers to explore the storied ruins of Pompeii before the summer crowds arrive. Crisp skies and moderate temperatures set the stage for immersive strolls through well-preserved Roman artifacts and buildings, transporting visitors back in time.

Without heavy crowds, one can vividly envision the daily workings of ancient shops, homes, theaters, and temples, capped off by panoramic views of nearby Vesuvius, which froze this lost city in time. March offers a quieter, more magical portal into Pompeii’s powerful past.

Teatro Antico di Taormina with Mt Etna in Sicily, Italy

From blooming countryside to the Vatican Museums, Venice’s canals, Mount Etna, and more, March welcomes visitors to uncover Italy. Exploring the country with fewer crowds allows deeper connections to its history and culture, while inviting activity in pleasant spring conditions before the summer crowds pour in.

Hungry to start planning your Italian March adventures? Our Italy travel guide offers further inspiration or you can find more information in our Italy tours .

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Best Places to Visit in Italy in March: Our Top 10 Picks

Looking for the best places to visit in Italy in March? You’ve struck gold!

We’ve handpicked our top 10 destinations just for you. Buckle up for a whirlwind Italian adventure that combines fewer crowds, gorgeous weather, and jaw-dropping sights.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

Ah, Venice! Known for its dreamy canals and artistic heritage. One step into the city and you’re walking into a painting. Notably, March is an ideal time to visit due to the lower tourist crowd.

You could witness the famed Carnevale di Venezia if your trip aligns with this vibrant festival. Your itinerary should undoubtedly include St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, and Doge’s Palace.

Quick Travel Tip: Explore the city early morning to experience Venice’s quiet charm before the day tourists swarm in.

2. Florence

Next stop, Florence, the cradle of Renaissance art and history. March brings pleasant weather perfect for leisurely walks through the city’s timeless streets.

A journey into the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery promises an encounter with illustrious art pieces.

Insider Knowledge: Most people don’t know that Florence’s Cathedral has a secret terrace with a stunning view. It’s accessible during a visit to the Duomo complex!

As they say, all roads lead to Rome, especially in March! This city’s historical charm is amplified by the serene atmosphere with fewer tourists at typically crowded sites.

Don’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and Vatican City.

Travel Tip: Make use of Rome’s extensive metro system to move around the city efficiently.

Welcome to Naples, the birthplace of pizza! A treat for the palate, Naples offers a rich culinary scene along with intriguing historical sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum.

In March, enjoy the scenic beauty of the nearby Amalfi Coast with fewer crowds.

Fun Fact: The Margherita pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Italy in 1889!

Let’s hop onto Sicily, a region reflecting a unique blend of cultures and rich history. March weather invites outdoor explorations, so don’t miss Mount Etna, Valle dei Templi, and Syracuse’s historic sites.

Insider Knowledge: Sicilian cuisine is known for its Arab influences. Be sure to try the “Cassata” dessert!

6. Sardinia

Next up is Sardinia, a paradise of unspoiled beaches and rugged mountains. If you’re visiting in late February or early March, you might catch Sa Sartiglia, a traditional equestrian tournament.

Don’t forget to explore the Nuraghe ruins, an impressive testimony to Sardinia’s ancient past.

Travel Tip: Sardinia’s public transportation is less reliable; consider renting a car for more freedom.

Welcome to Turin, Italy’s first capital. This city boasts an enchanting mix of culture, history, and the famous Aperitivo tradition.

The Egyptian Museum and the Mole Antonelliana are must-sees. And make sure you stop by one of Turin’s renowned cafes for an authentic Italian coffee experience.

Insider Tip: Turin is famous for its chocolate. Don’t miss trying Gianduja, a delicious hazelnut chocolate.

Buckle up foodies, we’re heading to Bologna, the food capital of Italy. March sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to savor Bologna’s rich gastronomic scene.

Be sure to join a walking tour of Europe’s oldest university and see the iconic Two Towers up close.

Quick Tip: If you’re a food lover, join a pasta making class or a food tour while you’re in Bologna.

9. Cinque Terre

Ah, the Cinque Terre, five brightly colored villages perched on rugged cliffs by the sea. The milder weather in March makes for excellent hiking conditions on the Sentiero Azzurro trail.

With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere in peace.

Travel Tip: Remember, cars aren’t allowed in the villages, so pack light!

Last but not least, we reach Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital. Top attractions include the impressive Duomo di Milano, the stylish Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

If your trip coincides with Milan Fashion Week, you’re in for a treat.

Insider Knowledge: The tiny vineyard next to the house where Leonardo lived during the painting of The Last Supper has been recently restored!

There you have it, the best places to visit in Italy in March! Each city holds its unique charm and appeal, promising unforgettable experiences. Be it the culture, history, or culinary delights, Italy in March is truly enchanting.

Additional Tips for Traveling in Italy in March

Don’t forget, the weather in March can be unpredictable. So pack layers, and a light rain jacket could come in handy. Navigating language barriers and local customs is part of the adventure, but learning a few Italian phrases can always help.

Finally, each city has its own transportation quirks, so research ahead and embrace the journey as much as the destination.

Happy travels, and as they say in Italy, “Buon Viaggio!” If you’re looking for more travel inspiration, check out our article on the most visited cities in Europe for a comprehensive guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in italy in march.

The weather in Italy during March varies across different regions. Generally, it is considered a shoulder season, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C. There might be occasional rain showers, so it’s advisable to pack accordingly.

Is March a good time to visit Italy?

Yes, March can be a great time to visit Italy. The tourist crowds are usually thinner, allowing you to explore popular attractions without long queues. Plus, the milder weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

What are the major events in Italy in March?

In March, you can witness a variety of events in Italy, such as Carnevale di Venezia in Venice or Women’s Day (Festa della Donna) celebrated nationwide on March 8. The dates of these events can vary, so it’s best to check in advance.

What should I pack for Italy in March?

Since the weather in March can be unpredictable, consider packing layers. A raincoat, comfortable walking shoes, and warmer clothing for the evenings are a good idea. Don’t forget a good camera to capture Italy’s stunning landscapes and architecture!

Can I visit the beach in Italy in March?

While the temperatures in March might not be warm enough for typical beach activities, you can still enjoy Italy’s coastal areas. The beautiful seaside towns of Amalfi Coast or Sardinia, for instance, offer scenic views and pleasant walks.

About Ronaldo Stewart

Wantigo was born out of a deep passion for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. With a keen sense of adventure and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I’ve traveled far and wide, immersing myself in the beauty and wonder of the world.

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Visiting Italy in March: where to go in March for an Italian spring

Italy in March is a particularly quiet month,  inviting you to adopt a slower pace during the low season. From the grandiose landscapes of Lake Como to the vineyards of Tuscany , follow us to uncover the best places to visit to experience la Dolce Vita! 

March in lake como: your spring mountain getaway

Lake Como in March has a very particular kind of magic . The weather in Italy in March   is still cool, but the fog that envelops the lake during the winter months has lifted, revealing the beauty of this unique landscape . 

What to do in Lake Como in March:

• Why we love Lake Como: Strolling through the narrow streets , one is immediately struck by Lake Como's old-fashioned and authentic charm , with its colourful houses, old bell towers and sleepy gardens.
• Our top activities in Lake Como: The weather in Lake Como in March lets you take full advantage of northern Italy's absolutely magnificent hiking trails . Start with the Traveler's Path (“Il Sentiero Del viandante”), bordered by Lake Como on one side and the mountains on the other, which offers an exceptional view of the opposite side of the lake.
• Lake Como with kids:  let your kids gaze up in wonder at the landscape before their eyes, as if painted with pastels . This peaceful destination is perfect for families who are are looking for a slow-paced holiday . To make the most of the lake, we recommend renting kayaks to make ripples on the lake. 

To pack your itinerary, consult our selection of the best things to do in Lake Como .  

Weather in Lake Como in March: 

• Weather forecast:  with mild temperatures during March , Lake Como is a spring dream, perfect for exploring the blooming gardens and quaint streets. 
• Average temperature : in March, temperatures sit around 10°C , although Lake Como in late March tends to get marginally warmer. 
• Average rainy days: 10 days.
• What to pack: make sure to pack plenty of layers as you'll likely get quite warm if doing lots of walking around Lake Como in March. Just don't forget to pack your waterproofs and umbrella ! 

March in Tuscany: a countryside retreat

Wanting to be surrounded by loved ones in Italy this March? Tuscany is one of the best places to visit in Italy in March to escape to nature in one of our Italian countryside villas . 

What to do in Tuscany in March: 

• Why we love Tuscany in March:  retreat to one of our luxury villas this March in Tuscany to unplug from the modern world . Make the most of the cooler weather in Tuscany in March , spending your days roaming the rolling green fields , visiting Tuscany's infamous vineyards and then stopping off for a hearty meal and warming c affè in a quaint trattoria .
• Our top activities in Tuscany: u nknown to ordinary tourists, " Toscani cigaris " are very famous among cigar lovers. With the help of your tailor, organise a private visit to one of the last Tuscan workshops, where cigars are still rolled by hand , with the purest respect for tradition.
• Tuscany with kids: go in search of treasure native to the region: the truffle . The truffle hunting season runs from mid-December to mid-March . Guided by a local hunter and his dogs, explore the centuries-old oak forests in search of this precious delicacy, to be accompanied by a good Chianti.

Discover our secluded Italian villas for a true countryside retreat , alone with nature. 

Weather in Tuscany in March

• Weather forecast:  making the transition from winter to spring , Tuscany is beginning to warm up over March. Perfect for avoiding the summer heat, enjoy mild days as the sun reclaims its place in the skies.
• Average temperature: range from 7°C to 15°C .
• Average rainy days: 7 to 8 days.
• What to pack:  unsure what to wear in Tuscany in March ? Plenty of layers is key as although you'll want to pack your coat , you'll quickly warm up when trekking through the undulating fields. 

For more inspiration from Italy's neighbour, check out our selection of the most beautiful French destinations for your family spring escape . 

March in sicily: a seaside escape 

Want to visit Sicily but dread the high-season crowds? Go in March! Temperatures are slowly rising , but the streets of Palermo, Catania and Syracuse are still deserted.

What to do in Sicily in March: 

• Why we love Sicily in March:  Sicily has some of the warmest temperatures in Italy in March yet this guaranteed sunshine does not bring hoards to tourists with it! Explore and take time to get to know the locals, renowned for their friendliness , when visiting Sicily in March. 
• Our top activities in Sicily:  you can spend your days exploring the centuries-old ruins , Renaissance palazzos and Baroque architecture that make Sicily a stunning mosaic of rich histories. The more adventurous may dare to take an invigorating swim in the Mediterranean on one of Sicily's best beaches .
• Sicily with kids: Make the most of the cooler weather to explore the many museums , maybe visiting Syracuse's ancient Greek theatre or Roman remains without constantly fretting about hourly SPF application!  

Weather in Sicily in March: 

• Weather forecast:  As one of the warmest Italian destinations, Sicily is one of the best places in Italy to visit in March . The weather in Sicily over March is mild although rain is frequent. 
• Average temperature: 7°C to 15°C . 
• Average rainy days: 8 days
• What to pack:  Sicily is relatively warm in March although still pack your wooly layers and waterproofs ! 

For more inspiration, discover our collection of large family-friendly holiday homes in Italy to gather everyone together this spring.

March on the amalfi coast: a romantic seaside dream 

Wondering where to visit in Italy in March ? As one of the most beautiful places in Italy , there's no better place to celebrate the coming of spring than on the Amalfi Coast , where pastel-coloured houses fling open their shutters and trattorias lay out their outdoor tables. 

What to do on the Amalfi Coast in March: 

• Why we love the Amalfi Coast in March: shake off the residual frost of winter on the Amalfi Coast where the dramatic cliffs plunge into the Tyrrhenian Sea and clusters of coloured houses perched along these dizzying roads. 
• Our top activities on the Amalfi Coast:  wander through this picturesque landscape, stopping for a limoncello aperitif along the way. For an adventure, hop on board a Vespa and wind through serpentine alleys that twist through the cliffs . 
• Amalfi Coast with kids:  With the sea's chilling waters still the preserve of the brave-hearted, choose one of our luxury Italian villas with swimming pools . Then spend the afternoons exploring the old fishing harbours or bring their history classes to life at the ancient Roman buildings in Ravello. 

Weather on the Amalfi Coast in March:

• Weather forecast: One of our favourite destinations in the south of Italy , the Amalfi Coast is certainly emerging from its winter slumber in March yet it can still be chilly , especially in the evening. 
• Average temperature: 13 °C
• What to pack:  Layers, layers, layers! The key to navigating the fluctuating weather on the Amalfi Coast in March is by packing plenty of layers , including a waterproof. 

Florence in March: an enchanting city escape 

For one of the best places to go in Italy , Florence in March still casts its ancient spell , brimming with historical monuments yet free from flocks of tourists . Take your time wandering down the cobblestone streets and Renaissance squares to transport yourself back in time.   

What to do in Florence in March: 

• Why we love the Florence in March:  without the hordes of tourists, listen closely to the whispers of the past tell you the story of the Renaissance and Medici family as you wander through the historic centre of Florence . You can visit the many galleries , cathedrals and museums without having to fight through swarms of tourists to get a ticket and get a coveted table at one of Italy's best Michelin-starred restaurants . 
• Our top activities in Florence: For a day of cultural hotspots , let the muses of the great Italian masters peer down at you from the walls of the Uffizi Gallery and feel goosebumps as the flickering candlelight dances on the stained glass in the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral. 
• Florence with kids:  Your little ones will find it impossible to get bored in Florence, with a never-ending supply activities . If you want to take your family into the countryside, let our luxury concierge team organise a wild truffle hunt in the surrounding of Florence or a horseback ride , trotting through the rolling fields. 

Weather in Florence in March:

• Weather forecast: With mild temperatures , enjoy the spring breeze as you explore the major attractions in Florence. Although showers are more common this time of year, the many museums, shops and cafés are perfect shelters from the showers. 
• Average temperature: 14°C . 
• What to pack:  Again, layers are your best friend and a good coat will let you embrace the Italian culture outdoor dining in March. Make sure to take a comfy pair of shoes as you'll be racking up your step count and a waterproof in case of showers! 

Spend time with your family in one of our Italian family-friendly villas as t he rhythm of the low season in Italy in March invites you to recharge your batteries and make the most of the many things to do in Italy in March . For your perfect spring escape , explore our collection of luxury villa rentals in Italy . 

To continue chasing the sun , browse through our guide to visiting Italy in April as the weather warms up and spring is in full swing. 

As Italy emerges from its winter hibernation, the transitional month of March is perfect for discovering Italy's natural beauty and rich heritage without the hordes of tourists. 

Make the most of cool breezes as you hike through the rolling fields around your luxury villa in Tuscany or up through the magnificent hiking trails around Lake Como . 

Equally, head on a city escape to Florence to view the Uffizi Gallery and Maria del Fiore cathedral without fighting alongside other tourists for the best viewing spot. 

There are many advantages to visiting Italy in March, as the mild temperatures and low season quietude makes it perfect for hiking and exploring at your own pace.

If you want to explore breathtaking landscapes , browse through our selection of Lake Como villas where colourful buildings look out onto the glistening lake as the majestic mountains loom in the backdrop. Equally, explore our Tuscany villas to lose yourself in a sea of green. 

If your looking to immerse yourself in the old-world charm and culture , what could be better than choosing one of our Florence villas . 

Explore Italy in March with your family in one of our luxury private villas . 

If you're an active family who love to keep busy, we recommend the charming Florence or Sicily . 

If you want to spend quality time together in a countryside retreat , what could be better than the rolling fields of Tuscany or the dramatic mountains of Lake Como . 

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• Where to go on holiday in Italy in March: 10 unmissable destinations
• Places and Tours

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March ? Here are ten ideas to make the most of the first days of spring.

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March when nature slowly awakens with its colors and the climate starts to get milder? From north to south, Italy is an infinite sequence of magnificent places to visit at any time of the year, but even more so when everybody want to spend more time outdoor, even though the air is still crisp.

Here are some excellent ideas for you to travel and discover new destinations, or to return to visit some of the milestones of Italy's immense cultural heritage. Art lovers, fans of nature walks, or perhaps food and wine enthusiasts, there really is something for everybody. Let's go right now to discover the top ten destinations  where to go on holiday in Italy in March.

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March to let winter go out on a high

Sea or mountain? City or nature? If you are thinking about where to go on holiday in Italy in March, the eternal dilemma has only one answer: both. This time of year, in fact, is ideal for traveling basically anywhere. The generally most popular destinations are not yet very crowded and the days are already long and warm enough to allow for beautiful walks.

Visit the picturesque villages that Italy is famous for, or some of the characteristic islands that pepper the Mediterranean. And why not take advantage of the return of the warm weather to stretch your legs on one of the many wonderful trekking paths that cross Italy? Furthermore, many cities have parks and villas with beautiful gardens that begin to bloom in March, perfect for pleasing art and nature lovers at the same time.

Let's begin our journey to discover the most beautiful places where to go on holiday in Italy in March from the small town of Alba . This ancient village, which boasts almost two thousand years of history, is practically the heart of the Langhe , a wonderful Piedmont region full of pretty villages, but mainly known for its wines and white truffles . It is no coincidence, in fact, that Alba has also been named a UNESCO Creative City for gastronomy. A must-see for food lovers, but not only them.

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Visit Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy (@visitchieti)

Chieti is a pretty town, mostly outside of mass tourism, which certainly helps to give it a dreamy and relaxed atmosphere. This, of course, doesn't mean there isn't plenty to do and see. Its history is very long and begins, according to legend, with the Greek hero Achilles who founded it, dedicating it to his mother.

8. Como and its lake

Villas, museums, monuments and of course the wonders of the lake bordered by villages and castles to be explored. Como is truly one of the top places where to go on holiday in Italy in March because it's able to fascinate everyone.

When spring is upon us, Umbria is definitely one of the places to be and Orvieto, in particular, will remain in your heart. It is a place rich in history, in the heart of the ancient region of Etruria .

By far its most famous monument, and rightly so, is the Duomo , among the most important cathedrals in the world. This church which admirably combines Gothic and Romanesque is a treasure chest of works by many great artists including Arnolfo di Cambio, Gentile da Fabriano, Beato Angelico and many others. It's particularly notable for its imposing façade whose golden mosaics shine in the sun.

Winter hasn't left yet, and the apple tree suddenly appears transformed in a cascade of fragrant stars. Pablo Neruda

6. Vernazza

Vernazza, in Liguria, is one of the most beautiful villages of the Cinque Terre. Perched on a promontory, this tiny town is made up of dry stone walls, loggias, colorful houses and small, steep streets that lead to the town small square. Here is the church of Santa Maria d'Antiochia , right in front of the port, which is the only natural one in the Cinque Terre.

A young and cultured city, Parma, home of the composer Toscanini, is one of the best places where  to go on holiday in Italy in March because it always offers so much to see and do. Its heart is a magnificent Romanesque style cathedral , with an octagonal baptistery. Not far away is the former monastery of San Paolo, where you can see an exceptional cycle of frescoes by Correggio , who is also the author of the paintings that decorate the awesome dome of the church of San Giovanni Evangelista.

4. Predazzo in Val di Fiemme

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Predazzo, Val di Fiemme (@visitpredazzo)

At an altitude of 1000 meters there is a small town with around four thousand inhabitants. It is Predazzo, the eastern gateway to the Val di Fiemme, and the link between the latter and the Val di Fassa. Here, between these two valleys in the Dolomites, there are some of the most beautiful landscapes in Trentino .

With its colorful houses reflected in the blue of the Mediterranean, the island of Procida seems almost drawn and is certainly one of the most pleasant places to wait for spring to arrive.

One of the best destinations to go on holiday in Italy in March, and not only then, is Tuscany and in particular Siena, one of its most beautiful town.

Surrounded by a countryside famous for its beauty, this lively medieval town, rich in history and traditions, never gets boring. Even a simple walk along its winding streets always reserves beautiful surprises, including suggestive views, artisan shops and typical restaurants where you can taste the exceptional local cuisine . Without forgetting, of course, its monuments, some of which are among the most precious of the Italian heritage. The Cathedral , for example, is a treasure chest of artworks that knows few comparisons, and the same can be said of the National Art Gallery , while the Palazzo Pubblico preserves a famous cycle of frescoes by Lorenzetti. With its high tower, the top of which is reached via more than four hundred steps, the Palazzo Pubblico delimits one of the most iconic Italian squares, Piazza del Campo , where in summer the famous Palio  takes place.

1. Where to go on holidays in Italy in March: Taormina

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March if not to Sicily? The island is incredibly rich in things to see , and has one of its most precious gems in Taormina. Goethe considered it a piece of paradise on Earth, and in fact anyone who visits cannot help but fall in love with this town.

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Best places to visit in italy.

Tourists and travel experts have long agreed that Italy is a special place, so much so that the country has become a de facto bucket list destination for just about everyone. Famous for its incredible food, rich historical sites, highly regarded art, charming small towns and picturesque cities, countrysides and coastlines, it's safe to say Italy's offerings are unmatched. U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in Italy considering a number of factors, from affordability and seasonality to sights and crowds, to help you decide exactly where to go. Have a favorite destination in Italy? Cast your vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Amalfi Coast

Cinque terre, tuscany, italy.

A standard stop on many European vacation itineraries , Rome is not to be missed. Italy’s capital city is a globally renowned cultural and historical powerhouse, boasting everything from ancient ruins and tranquil parks to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here, you'll find the most important relic from the Roman Empire (the Colosseum), some of Michelangelo's greatest works (in the Sistine Chapel), an 18th century Baroque-style fountain (the Trevi Fountain) and, of course, the center of Catholicism (Vatican City). Other can’t-miss tourist attractions in the Eternal City include the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church.

Situated in the scenic Tuscan valley, Florence woos travelers with old-world avenues leading to picturesque piazzas big and small. While you're soaking up the city's splendor, make sure to stop by the Piazza del Duomo, where the breathtaking Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is located, and the romantic Ponte Vecchio, a 14th century bridge overlooking the Arno River. Once central to the Renaissance movement, Florence also offers art aficionados the opportunity to see famous pieces by Michelangelo and other iconic artists of that period. As an added bonus, Florence is ideal for a daytrip to the Chianti wine region.

The journey to the cliff-side Amalfi Coast involves heart-stopping, hairpin turns on narrow roads, but travelers agree this is part of the fun. The region covers more than 30 miles of coastline and is home to 13 colorful seaside towns, each with its own story. Positano and Amalfi are the most popular, housing numerous hotels and sights. While here, hike, relax on the beach and eat to your heart's content (there are multiple Michelin-starred restaurants along the Amalfi Coast). For something more off-the-beaten-path, set your sights on Atrani. This humble fishing village boasts medieval whitewashed architecture, winding alleys and authentic Italian charm.

There are few destinations in the world that are quite like Venice. Its uniqueness can largely be attributed to the canals that run through this northern Italian city like roads, carrying water taxis and buses in addition to its fleet of famous gondolas. As such, there is a palpable bustle here that may surprise some first-timers. For a relaxing Venice vacation, seek out the smaller streets and canals away from the busy Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square. Just be sure to stroll across Rialto Bridge and tour the grand St. Mark’s Basilica at least once.

Cinque Terre, located on Italy's northern Ligurian coast, is made up of five picturesque towns – Manarola, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and Riomaggiore. Manarola, the region’s oldest town, boasts scenic vineyards, olive groves and a centuries-old bell tower. Meanwhile, Vernazza, often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, is well-known for its picture-perfect houses and grand medieval castle. The Cinque Terre offers an abundance of exciting activities, from boat tours and hiking to cooking classes and wine tastings. While here, don’t forget to save time for exploring the cliff-side Footpath Monterosso trail, a beautiful hiking path connecting Vernazza and Monterosso.

For centuries, this small island off the coast of southern Italy has attracted plenty of famous faces, from emperors to movie stars, due to its gorgeous scenery. Some of Capri's most amazing sights are best seen by boat, including the Faraglioni rock formations and the Blue Grotto, where sunlight turns the water into an unbelievably vivid shade of blue. On land, the Gardens of Augustus and Villa Jovis, an imperial palace, also provide spectacular views. Meanwhile, in the town center, visitors will find high-end shops and restaurants where they can relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Considered the land of the sirens in Greek mythology, Sorrento continues to lure people with its charm and stunning views. Here, vacationers can explore enchanting piazzas or relax near the water before watching the sun set behind the cliffs. Plus, lemons are big in Sorrento – both in size and in popularity – and the area is known as one of the best places in the world to taste authentic limoncello, a lemon-flavored liquor. It's also the perfect base for daytrips and boat tours to nearby Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and other popular Italian locales.

Italy's second-largest city is best known for its high fashion, playing host to Milan Fashion Week each winter and home to iconic fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Prada and Versace. Visitors can peruse such high-end brands at the dazzling Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. But Milan's architecture (including the Gothic Milan Cathedral and grand Teatro alla Scala opera house) and sites like Castello Sforzesco (which holds nearly 10 museums and exhibitions) are worth a visit on their own. What's more, the city is incredibly walkable, so feel free to explore on foot – with or without designer stilettos.   

Located about 30 miles from Verona, Lake Garda tends to be more approachable and wallet-friendly (if a bit more touristy) than Lake Como. Activities in this recreational hot spot include swimming and windsurfing, as well as hiking and taking a funicular to Mount Baldo. Lake Garda also attracts families with Gardaland Resort, which includes themed hotels as well as an amusement park, water park and aquarium. If you're looking to get away from the crowds, go beyond the main tourist sites to the quieter northern side of the lake, where you'll find the highest mountains and tucked-away towns.

If you're looking for Italy without the crowds, Tuscany is really all it's cracked up to be. Italy's famous countryside offers travelers spectacular landscapes dotted with romantic villas and castles equipped with wineries and superb restaurants. Don’t miss out on a visit to the walled city of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its medieval towers. What's more, Tuscan locales like Pisa (which offers much more than its leaning tower) and Siena are an easy drive from top destinations such as Bologna and Cinque Terre, perfect for daytrippers who don't want to stay in one place for too long.

Assisi, a medieval town with religious connections, sits on a hilltop in the lush landscapes of Umbria, just more than 100 miles north of Rome. This peaceful town's biggest draws are its sights dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, one of Italy's patron saints, including the Basilica of San Francesco, which houses his tomb as well as colorful frescos, and The Woods of San Francesco. Beyond its religious heritage, Assisi is worth a visit for its picturesque streets and sweeping views, while its location also makes it ideal for a truffle hunting excursion or wine tasting tour.

As the location of several ancient Greek legends, Sicily has an almost mythical quality. Once you visit for yourself, you'll see why so many writers were inspired by this island, which happens to be the largest in the Mediterranean. Be enchanted by Sicily's crystal-clear waters and golden beaches. Marvel at Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, or try hiking up it in summer or skiing down it in winter. Also save time for taking in the many cultures that have called this island home at its various cathedrals and archaeological sites.

This former Roman city in southern Italy is equal parts chilling and impressive. Pompeii was left almost completely intact after it was buried in ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Its astonishingly well-preserved ruins now provide present-day visitors a glimpse into what life was like during ancient times. True history buffs might also enjoy a trip to nearby Herculaneum, another city that was preserved by the same eruption, while more adventurous explorers should consider hiking to the top of Mount Vesuvius for jaw-dropping panoramas of the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula.

Best known for its Shakespeare ties, Verona appeals to fans of "Romeo and Juliet" with themed tours of the sights that allegedly inspired the play. But there is more to this city than its literary link. Verona, located about 15 miles east of Lake Garda, is also home to several impressive attractions and historic buildings (the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, after all). Travelers won't want to miss the Arena di Verona, a first-century Roman amphitheater that is still in use, and Giardino Giusti, a beautifully sculpted Renaissance garden.

Sardinia provides the best of both worlds. Costa Smeralda is all about luxury, with its lush beaches and coves overlooking yacht-filled waters. And away from all of the glitz and glamour of Costa Smeralda, you'll find a more laid-back side of the island, including small medieval towns where Sardinians still practice sheepherding and wear traditional clothing. What's more, Sardinia features several ancient ruins, such as UNESCO World Heritage-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini.

If you really want to treat yourself on your next vacation, Lake Como is where you want to be. Here, opulent villas and hotels line the shores and sandy beaches beckon to sun seekers. You'll see sleek sailboats and speedboats coasting in the middle of the lake, which is the perfect place to admire the region's surrounding hills. Meanwhile, for a lesson in luxury, tour one of the region’s grand villas; top picks among travelers include Villa Melzi d’Eril, Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Later, check out the Como Cathedral, a magnificent structure boasting Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

The small, crescent-shaped village of Portofino is known as a vacation hot spot for the rich and famous. The water surrounding Portofino is often filled with yachts and is great for swimming and diving. Plus, the area's beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an excellent place to unwind. When travelers need a break from relaxing, they can venture just outside of Portofino to check out historical sites like Castello Brown, an ancient military fortress with incredible views of the Marina di Portofino, and Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, a 10th century monastery that can only be reached by foot or ferry.

Thought to have been inhabited 12,000 years ago, Matera is one of the world's oldest continually occupied towns. Located in the Basilicata region in southern Italy, just west of Puglia, Matera's distinguishing features are its sassi (cave dwellings), which were inhabited until the 1950s. While here, look out for the many viewpoints, called belvederes, for a glimpse of the breathtaking cliffside. Visit Sasso Caveoso for the Casa Grotta cave house (inhabited until 1957) and the Santa Maria de Idris, a rupestrian church carved from the rocky landscape. Meanwhile, in Sasso Barisano – the oldest part of the city – you'll find modern comforts like hotels, restaurants and shops.

There are several reasons why Bologna, the capital of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is often called "la dotta, la grassa e la rossa" ("the learned, the fat and the red"). For one, it's home to the oldest university in Europe, the University of Bologna. The city is also a food lover's dream thanks to its world-renowned cuisine, which includes Italian staples like tortellini and lasagna Bolognese. Bologna even features a gelato university and the food-themed amusement park, FICO Eataly World. Plus, the city boasts an array of terra cotta-roofed medieval buildings, including a pair of leaning towers.

Located in the northwest corner of Italy, Turin is the perfect city break brimming with grand architecture, museums and delightful cuisine. Must-visit attractions include Mole Antonelliana (a former synagogue turned into a cinema museum), the 16th-century Royal Palace of Turin and the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum). Once you've toured the top sights, settle into local life by enjoying the city's riverside parks, street markets, football games and historic cafes. At the latter, you'll find unique coffee blends and decadent chocolate, as well as elaborate aperitif hours. On the long list of things Turin does right, you can find these three items at the top.   

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Best Places to Visit in Italy in March

Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This, therefore, means that many tourists usually visit the country’s famous locations, museums, ancient churches, and cathedrals. During peak season, tourist facilities and hotel rates shoot up, and people end up paying double the price compared to what they pay offseason for the same hotel.

In Italy, the main season for tourists typically goes from late spring and runs towards the end of summer. During this period, hordes of tourists visit the country to enjoy the sunny beaches and beautiful cities.

In March, the weather in Italy, just like any time of the year, usually varies depending on the area. It’s also unpredictable than the summer season. March sees both chilly days and slight showers compared to other warmer months.

If the vacation itinerary involves many outdoor activities and sports, you will quickly notice any slight weather changes. But if you plan to visit museums and churches for most of the trip, the weather will not affect your enjoyment. Besides, in Italy, the most famous sightseeing places are usually indoors, meaning the temperature outside is not a significant concern for tourists. Remember, the hotel prices and air face savings can make a little more rain than worthwhile.

Tourists must make reservations when planning to visit Italy in April and September, which is almost impossible considering work schedules and lifestyles. The next best travel month is March. During this time, the tourist season is not as full visitors can easily find accommodations and flights than in the peak season.

However, in March, the average weather may not be like that of summer seasons. But if you don’t mind, plan for your March visitation as you may be surprised by the advantages you get.

March Weather in Italy

In March, the weather in Italy is characterized by chilly and cold days, while some regions experience damp rainy days. However, after the second half of the month, typical sunny days resume. For instance, in Rome, the average temperature is about 60◦ Fahrenheit.

In March, any weather type is possible, so the month is said to be ‘crazy.’ If you plan to take more outdoor activities like hiking, March may not be the best month for that. However, if you plan on visiting beautiful monuments and churches in the country, March is a perfect time.

The first day of spring is the 21st of March, and summer begins towards the end of the month.

Northern Italy

The average temperature remains between 1◦ to 13◦ Celsius in Milan and other parts of Northern Italy. Precipitation is frequent in March, but chances of warm sunny days are higher than snowy days.

The average temperature ranges between 7◦ and 15◦ Celsius in Central Italy, including Rome. Sunny days are mostly experienced towards the end of the month, putting an end to the long winter season.

In Sicily and Northern Italy, March is usually relatively mild, with temperatures ranging between 11 to 16 degrees Celsius.

In Italy, festivals and events are typically held in different parts of the country all year round. Therefore, even if tourists visit offseason, they will still get many activities to take on and several places to tour. Some of the best places to visit in Italy in March are Rome, Verona, Florence, and Turin. All these places hold the most relevant Spring festivals in March.

Besides taking part in the spring festivals, tourists can also tour different cities in the country, beautiful examples of architecture and Italian art. Florence and Rome are known in the world as the best cities in terms of art, architecture, and culture. During off-seasons, most of the sightseeing spots and museums offer discounts to tourists.

March Festivals in Italy

The Festa Della Donna (International Women’s Day) falls on the 8th of March. The death of Caesar commemoration is usually held on the 15th of March in Rome. Different cultural events that include a marathon also takes place at the celebration.

The Rome marathon is quite popular among the people and is organized on either the fourth or third Sunday of the month. However, you need to confirm on their website because it sometimes falls in April, like in 2019.

The marathon is a 42km stretch through the city streets with the Roman Forum as the starting point while the finish line is by the Colosseum every year. Runners pass through the best-known capital locations and monuments, and this includes the Vatican. People from all walks of life take part in the marathon as it’s quite popular. Plus, casual runners can use the shorter route.

Saint Joseph’s feast day or Saint Giuseppe, also known as Father’s Day, is celebrated on March 19th. It was a national holiday, and traditionally, people lit bonfires throughout the country. According to tradition, children gift their fathers on this occasion, and nativity scenes are shown based on a Saint’s life. Zeppole is the typical food of the day.

There’s Tipicita, a festival about traditions and food in Fermo, Marche region.

People who like medieval events and festivals might find the Palio dei Somari quite interesting. The event is usually on the 19th of March with a historic parade as part of the celebration. It’s held in a medieval village – Torrita di Siena, in Tuscany near Siena City.

The largest and most important wine festival is known as VinItaly and takes place in Verona in March. People get to sample some of the best wines in Italy and local ones too made from vineyards around the locality.

Additionally, spring festivals are mostly celebrated in March in Italy. The Festa Della Primavera is held on the 21st of March in different parts of the country. The event usually has cultural events geared around performances and music. Plus, tourists are invited to taste regional foodstuffs during the festival.

If you love snowboarding or skiing, visit the Dolomites in the Northeast or the Italian Alps in the Northwest. Val Gardena in the Dolomites is one of the best resorts for a ski holiday. The network has 12 ski areas and great slopes ideal for pros and families alike. What’s more, longer days in March allows you to spend more time on the slopes as it’s usually pleasant and sunny.

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Life in Italy, Italian Language, Italian Culture, Italy News, Tourism News, Italian Food

Italy in March

Italy is known to be one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. However, this also means that thousands of tourists travel to the country to visit its many well known locations.  Its beautiful ancient churches, cathedrals, and museums do not go unnoticed and are visible to all. Because of this, rates of hotels and all other tourist facilities shoot up during peak season. Visitors often end up paying almost double than what they would off season, for the same hotel room. The primary tourist season in Italy goes from late Spring and to the end of Summer: in this period, you can expect hordes of tourists travelling to the country to enjoy its sunny beaches and its beautiful cities.

As with any time of year,  March weather in Italy  will vary depending on the region. It also tends to be more unpredictable than the Summer months. Compared to warmer months like  June , March sees quite a bit of rain  as well as chilly days . If your vacation itinerary includes lots of outdoor sports and activities, then the weather difference will certainly be noticeable. On the other hand, if you are planning to be indoors or visiting museums and churches for the majority of your trip, the differences in weather would not affect your enjoyment. Because most of Italy’s famous tourist attractions are located indoors, tourists should not be concerned about the weather. Keep in mind, the savings in airfare and hotel prices may make a little rain more than worthwhile!

… little but effective hints

Weather in march.

March in Italy is still marked by some cold and chilly days, with many regions experiencing damp, rainy days. However, particularly after the second half of the month, sunny days become usual: in Rome, for instance, you can expect an average temperature within the 60s Fahrenheit. Anyway, almost any weather is possible in March, which is why the month is known to be pazzo (crazy). So, if you are planning on a lot of travel outdoors or hiking, March might not be the right time . However, those who are just interested in visiting the many beautiful churches and monuments in the country may find March to be a perfect time of the year to do it.

March 21st is spring’s first day, and clocks are set to summer the last week of March.

In Milan , and other parts of Northern Italy , average temperature would remain between 1 and 13 degree Celsius (34 to 56 degrees Fahrenheit). Precipitation is still common in March, but a sunny, warm day is more likely than a snowy day.

The average temperature in Central Italy , including Rome, ranges between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius (43 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). Greater chances for sunny days toward the end of the month will show that the long Winter is finally over.

In Southern Italy and Sicily, March is quite mild, with temperatures remaining between 11 and 16 degrees Celsius (52 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit).

Where to visit in March

The best thing about Italy is that events and festivals are held all over the country throughout the year. So, even if visitors travel to Italy off season, they still have plenty of things to do. Some of the best places to visit in Italy in March are Turin, Rome, Florence and Verona . These are where the most relevant Spring Festivals are held in March. Beside taking part in them, visitors can also visit the cities, all beautiful examples of Italian art and architecture. Rome and Florence are widely regarded as two of the world’s best cities in terms of culture, art, and architecture. During the off-season, many of their museums and sightseeing locations offer discounts to visitors.

Festivals in March

International women’s day.

March, 8 th is the  Festa della Donna (International women’s day) .

The idea of adopting the Mimosa dates back to 1946, shortly after World War II ended and the first significant steps toward women’s rights were taken.

The mimosa, the most well-known version of the name “ Acacia Delbata ,” is extremely hardy in a variety of climates. Women are perfectly represented by this symbolism.

Commemoration of the death of Caesar

In Rome, the commemoration of the death of Caesar is held every March, on the  15 th . Various cultural events, including a marathon race, take place during the celebration, its fulchre being Caesar’s statue in the Roman Forum.

The famous marathon in Rome is usually organized on the third or fourth Sunday of the month (but please check the official website, sometimes it’s in April, as it is this year, 2019). The marathon runs its 42km stretch through many picturesque streets of the city, its starting point is at the Roman Forum, after which runners will pass by some of the best known monuments and locations of the capital, including the Vatican. The finish line is, every year, by the Colosseum. The marathon is quite popular and people from all over the world take part in it, and there is even a shorter route for casual runners.

Father’s Day

Saint Giuseppe or Saint Joseph’s feast day is celebrated on the 19 th  of March and is also known as Father’s Day . It used to be a national holiday in Italy and traditionally bonfires were lit through the country on the day. According to tradition, children give gifts to their fathers on the occasion. In many places, nativity scenes based on the life of the Saint are shown. Saint Joseph Day also have a typical food:  zeppole.

In Fermo, Marche, there’s  Tipicità , a festival about food and traditions from the Marche region. The festival is held at the “ Fermo Forum” in the city of the same name. Food and gastronomy are in the spotlight at the moment. It’s a way of attracting tourists from surrounding areas and showcasing the beauty of the Marche gastronomic tradition to the public.

The program includes dozens of stands and thousands of square meters to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. For more information, go to the event’s official website .

Palio dei Somari

For those who like medieval festivals and events , the  Palio dei Somari, a donkey race, may be quite interesting. The event takes place in “ Torrita di Siena “, a picturesque medieval village in Tuscany close to the city of Siena . The event takes place on the 19 th March. A historic parade is also a part of the celebrations.

Wine lovers would have a wonderful time in Italy in March, since the largest and the most important wine festival takes place in the month of March (or sometimes at the beginning of April), in Verona. The festival is known as VinItaly . During the festival, you can sample some of the best known wines of Italy, including local ones made from the vineyards around Verona.

Spring festivals are also quite commonly celebrated in Italy in March . The Festa della Primavera is usually held on the 21 st  of March in various different locations in the country. Usually the festival has some cultural events centered around music and performances. Visitors are also invited to taste a lot of typical regional food items during the festival itself.

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Tuscany In March – 9 Exclusive Gems to Explore In Spring

Tuscany in March offers a first glimpse of spring in the Italian countryside. However, if you’re looking to visit during this time, you might be wondering whether it’s worth the trip.

While the summer months may be more popular among tourists, March offers a unique opportunity to experience Tuscany in a more relaxed and authentic way. With milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and a host of cultural events and activities, March can be an ideal time to explore this charming region of central Italy.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Tuscany in March has something to offer everyone. Let’s dive in and explore everything

Tuscany In March: The Weather

While the weather in Tuscany in March can vary, it’s generally mild.

On average, you can expect temperatures that range from around 50°F to 61°F, along with occasional rain showers.

While it may not be warm enough for sunbathing or swimming, the cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or exploring the cities and towns of Tuscany.

Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the beginning of Tuscan’y gorgeous spring season just beginning, complete with blooming flowers and budding trees, adding a beautiful touch to the already stunning landscapes!

Best 9 Places to Visit in Tuscany in March

1. san gimignano.

While Tuscany is full of picturesque towns and cities, San Gimignano is one of the best places to visit in March. This charming little hilltop town is famous for its medieval architecture and medieval towers.

These towers were built during the 12th and 13th centuries by the region’s wealthy families as a sign of their power and wealth. At its peak, the town had up to 72 towers. Unfortunately, however, only 14 remain standing today.

Siena is another stunning medieval city and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tuscany in March.

Located in the heart of the region, Siena is home to some of Italy’s most important historical and cultural landmarks, including:

• Piazza del Campo
• Siena Cathedral
• Palazzo Pubblico.

3. Greve in Chianti

If you’ve ever had Chianti wine, then you’ve already had a small taste of this picturesque town.

Known for its vineyards , olive groves, and, you guessed it, charming medieval architecture, Greve in Chianti is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of rural Tuscany.

Greve’s visitors can enjoy quintessential winding Italian streets, bustling markets, and historic churches. Plus, the vineyards start coming to life in March with the first buds of spring, so you’ll get to enjoy some excellent wine along the way.

If you didn’t capture a photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa , did you even go to Tuscany?

Pisa, which is located in central Tuscany, is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower.

However, while the city may be most well-known for its leaning landmark, there is so much more to explore!

In March, the weather is starting to warm up, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s narrow streets and piazzas. Visit the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta or walk along the River Arno and take in the stunning views of the city’s historic architecture.

It’s worth noting that Pisa also has a lively food scene, with many restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Tuscan cuisines, such as Lampredotto or Pappardelle.

Just a short distance from Pisa, you’ll find the charming town of Lucca.

The city might be best known for its impressive Renaissance walls that have surrounded the historic center since the 16th century. Visitors can walk or cycle along the top of the walls to take in panoramic views of the city.

And, if you’re just as much of a fan of paper as Dwight Schrute , Lucca is also famous for its traditional paper production, and you can learn about this craft at the city’s Paper Museum.

6. Bagno Vignoni

If you need a place to reset both physically and spiritually, Bagno Vignoni is the town to visit.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Bagno Vignoni is a quaint medieval village known for its ancient thermal bath, which dates back to Roman times and is still in use today.

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a soak in the hot waters while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding rolling hills and vineyards.

With its unique charm and natural beauty, Bagno Vignoni is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tuscany in March.

7. Montepulciano

Montepulciano is another one of our favorite hilltop towns in Tuscany. You can’t really take a trip to Montepulciano without exploring the epic historic center, which offers some of the region’s most stunning architecture, including the Palazzo Comunale and the Duomo di Montepulciano.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb the Torre di Pulcinella to take in panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

While you’re there, make sure to sample the local wines at Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Arezzo is somewhat of a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. In March, however, the city truly comes to life with a variety of events and festivals, including the Giostra del Saracino. This one-of-a-kind medieval jousting tournament draws crowds from all over the world, taking visitors back in time to the medieval ages.

While in Arezzo, head to the Basilica di San Francesco. This beautiful church is home to some of the most important frescoes in Italy, including works by Piero della Francesca.

Lastly, we have Cortona , another beautiful hilltop town in Tuscany full of history and culture.

There’s no better way to start a day in Cortona than at the Piazza della Repubblica, which is the city’s central square. Here, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants, perfect for a morning coffee and a meal.

However, what Cortona is really known for are its museums, including the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca, which showcases numerous Etruscan artifacts, and the Fortezza Medicea, which is a 16th-century fortress turned museum, offering beautiful views of the countryside.

The Most Important Events in Tuscany in March

Palio dei somari (11th – 19th march – torrita di siena).

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Palio dei Somari is a traditional festival that has taken place in Torrita di Siena for more than 50 years.

The main attraction of the festival is a race where jockeys ride donkeys around the town’s central square, competing for a grand prize. Alongside the race, you’ll find parades, music, and other medieval-style festivities.

Torciata di San Giuseppe (19th March)

If you want to take place in a visually stunning Tuscan event, look no further than Torciata di San Giuseppe.

This traditional festival, which takes place in Montepulciano, involves a procession of participants carrying torches through the town’s streets, culminating in a bonfire in Piazza Grande.

The festival is a celebration of spring’s arrival and nature’s rebirth after winter. It is also a tribute to Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, who is said to have saved the town from a devastating earthquake in the 18th century.

Capodanno Fiorentino (25th March)

This annual celebration of the New Year takes place in Florence, celebrating a time when Florence used the Julian calendar, which began the new year on March 25th.

You’ll get to see a parade of people dressed in traditional costumes from the Renaissance period, the lighting of the “Brindellone” to celebrate the city’s ancient pagan rituals, and a massive firework show to end it off.

It’s a unique and fascinating time-honored tradition that has been celebrated for centuries — a must for any trip to Tuscany in March

A Day Trip to Tuscany In March

There are near-infinite itineraries we could give you for a springtime Tuscany day trip, so instead, we’ll give you a few ideas to play your own itinerary:

• Visit Wineries: Tuscany is famous for its wines, so take advantage of your trip and visit some wineries. Some of our personal favorites include Antinori, Castello di Ama, and Tenuta dell’Ornellaia in Bolgheri .
• Explore Some Hill Towns: You’ll find plenty of charming hill towns throughout Tuscany, and March is an excellent time to visit them since there are fewer tourists. Pitigliano , Montalcino, and Montepulciano are some of our favorites.
• Enjoy the Views: Tuscany’s rolling hills and picturesque landscapes are a sight to behold, so be sure to set aside some time to take them in. A UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for its wines and cypress trees, Val d’Orcia would be our top choice if we had to pick just one location. Popular activities there include hiking, biking, and soaking in the breathtaking views.

Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers

Is Tuscany Nice in March?

Overall, Tuscany can be a nice destination to visit in March as long as you’re prepared for some variability in the weather and are flexible with your plans. The region is far less crowded than in summer, and travel costs are often lower!

What to Wear in Tuscany in March?

In March, Tuscany can have unpredictable weather, so it’s important to pack accordingly. Consider dressing in layers, bring comfortable walking shoes, and have a waterproof jacket handy for potential rain!

Is March a Good Time to Visit Florence?

March is a great time to visit Florence, as the weather is decent, crowds are smaller than in summer, travel-related costs are down, and there are still plenty of events and festivals to enjoy.

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Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

The 25 Best Places to Visit in Italy

Italy is a country that is rich in history and culture. There are so many places to visit it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we will provide a guide for travelers on the 20 best places to visit in Italy. From bustling cities to stunning coastal towns, there is something for everyone. Plus, we’ll give you tips on traveling with kids and how long you should spend in each city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Italian vacation today!

Cinque Terre

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Florence is the capital city of Tuscany that is brimming with art and history. It was the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, and there are plenty of places to learn about this period of time.

It is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery. Both of which hold works from the most impressive masters of the western world:

• Michelangelo

Be sure to visit and climb the impressive Duomo at the heart of the city. The views atop the dome are some of the best in Italy, and the dome’s interior is decorated with Giorgio Vasari’s elaborate portrayal of heaven and hell .

What Should I See in Florence? Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Duomo, Baptistery, Ponte Vecchio, and the Boboli Gardens.

When Should I Visit Florence? Spring or fall. The summer gets hot and is packed with other tourists.

Traveling to Florence with kids: Florence is a great place to travel with kids. In between climbing towers and the duomo, be sure to stop by and grab some delicious gelato and walk through the Boboli Gardens.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Florence? While you could see the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery in a single day, we recommend a minimum of three or four days. This will give you enough time to visit the highlights and take your time around this amazing city. Honestly, though, I could spend a lifetime in Florence. It is my favorite Italian city!

There is no doubt that Rome is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. Over 10 million people make the trek to the Eternal City each year!

This ancient city is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican. The best part is Rome acts as one large open-air museum. You could see most of the top sights without paying a dime (except for flying and staying there, of course).

You can see the exterior of the Colosseum, Castel Sant’Angelo, and the Vatican just by walking around the city center. Some of the most important sites in Rome, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, are free to visit:

• Piazza Navona
• Spanish Steps
• Trevi Fountain
• Roman Forum
• Altar of the Fatherland
• Palatine Hill
• Campo de’ Fiori
• Arch of Constantine

For the foodies out there, Rome has some of Italy’s best food. Make sure to try traditional dishes like carbonara and amatriciana. Trust us; it’s just as good as you’re envisioning.

Do You Love Art?

Heading to Rome but unsure which of the 60-plus museums to visit? Here’s our pick of the top 10 museums in Rome.

What Should I See in Rome? Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and Borghese Museum. Walk around the city and see stunning cathedrals, places, and Renaissance architecture.

Heading to the Vatican? Find out who painted the Sistine Chapel ?

When Should I Visit Rome? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Rome with kids: Rome is a great place to travel with kids. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as visiting the Vatican Museums, exploring the Roman Forum, or taking an underground tour of the Colosseum. If you’re looking for something a little more active, try biking one of Rome’s oldest roadways: the Appian Way.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Rome? While you could spend weeks exploring Rome, we recommend staying at least 3-5 days to see the highlights and taste the local culture. If you’re pressed for time, tourism companies offer jam-packed city tours that can be done in 4-6 hours but feel too rushed in our experience.

There is no place quite like Venice. This unique city is built on canals and is full of charming bridges and beautiful architecture.

For those that like to see a lot in a short amount of time, Venice should be at the top of your list of places to see in Italy. You can practically explore all of the top sights in just one day. Be sure to visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge .

Interested in churches or architecture? We wrote a guide on the top 15 Venice cathedrals and churches you should see on your next visit.

Oh, and while you’re there, don’t forget to enjoy a ride in a gondola amongst the oldest buildings in Venice .

What Should I See in Venice? St. Mark’s Basilica, Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Venetian Ghetto.

When Should I Visit Venice? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Venice with kids: Venice can be a great place to travel with kids, regardless of age. Take a gondola ride, visit the dungeons of Doge’s Palace, and explore the unique creative art held in the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Venice? While you can see the major highlights in just 24 hours, we recommend a minimum of two days in Venice. This will give you enough time to explore the city, see all the highlights at a leisurely pace, and visit the neighboring islands of Murano , Burano , and Torcello .

Heading to Venice?

No Venetian trip is complete without visiting these top sights.

Milan is a fashion-forward city known for its high-end shopping. But there is more to Milan than just designer clothes and luxury brands.

Milan is home to some of the world’s best art, including Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper . Other highlights include the Duomo (shown above), the Sforza Castle, and the La Scala Opera House.

If you go to Milan expecting Rome or Florence, you’ll be let down. Milan takes some effort to experience and appreciate. It’s more industrial than other cities on our list and doesn’t feature as many “must-see” highlights. That said, Milan is still one of the best places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in Milan? Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (located in Santa Maria delle Grazie church), Duomo, Sforza Castle, La Scala Opera House, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

When Should I Visit Milan? Spring is the best time to visit Milan. Summer receives the most visitors, while Fall and Winter get fairly cold.

Traveling to Milan with kids: Of all the places on our list, Milan might be the least kid-friendly. While there are fun activities like climbing to the top of the Duomo, it’s more geared towards adults.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Milan? We recommend one or two days. This will give you enough time to see the highlights and do some shopping. We feel like Milan is a great place to see in between other cities, but maybe not a place you’d prioritize on your first visit to Italy.

Tuscany is a picturesque region of central Italy that is known for its rolling hills, cypress trees, and vineyards. This is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some of Italy’s best food and wine. If you’re already visiting Siena, Florence, or Pisa, it’s well worth taking a day trip to the Tuscany countryside.

What Should I See in Tuscany? Go to neighboring hill towns like San Gimignano, Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Volterra and visit a vineyard. Be sure to try Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti wines!

When Should I Visit Tuscany? Tuscany is beautiful year-round, but late Summer and Early Autumn are recommended since that is wine harvest season.

Traveling to Tuscany with kids: Tuscany isn’t the best spot for children. While it’s a nice break from the big cities on our list, the main highlight is exploring smaller towns and drinking wine.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Tuscany? Tuscany is a day-trip type of location. Rent a car or book a tour that leaves from Florence, and you’ll have a great time. If you’re really into trying a variety of wines from the region, then you could easily spend three-to-five days in the area.

Sienna is a hill town in central Italy known for its distinctive brick buildings and medieval architecture.

It gets compared to neighboring Florence regularly, but the comparison isn’t fair. If you’re heading to Sienna expecting Florence, then you’ll be let down.

Siena is a beautiful and quaint place for more leisurely activities, such as wandering the cobblestone streets and watching the sunset. If you’re more interested in relaxing and drinking wine than you are urban exploration, Sienna is one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Planning On Using Uber in Italy?

Uber in Italy isn’t as simple as you might expect. Here are some local alternatives and how to catch a cab.

What Should I See in Sienna? The Duomo, the Piazza del Campo, Torre del Mangia, and the Palazzo Pubblico.

When Should I Visit Sienna? Like most of Tuscany, it’s beautiful year-round.

Traveling to Sienna with kids: Sienna is a great place to travel with kids, as there are plenty of kid-friendly activities. Kids will love visiting the Duomo, exploring the Piazza del Campo, and learning about the city’s history.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Sienna? Sienna is a great city to visit if you are already spending time in other parts of central Italy. It’s fantastic for a day trip or overnight.

Lake Como is a stunning lake in northern Italy known for its scenic beauty, celebrity villas, and romantic charms.

It’s nestled at the foot of the Alps, just near the border with Switzerland. While not as large as Lake Garda (also on our list), it’s just as beautiful and offers some fantastic hiking if you’re up for the challenge.

The only downside to Lake Como is that it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Just as many people flock to Lake Como for its natural beauty as they do for the celebrities that have summer retreats here.

If you’re looking to experience the Italian Lake District and want to avoid large crowds, opt for Lake Garda instead.

What Should I See at Lake Como? The lakeside towns of Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.

When Should I Visit Lake Como? Lake Como is perfect year-round. It’s close enough to the mountains to offer some great skiing during the winter but is picture-perfect during the summer, spring, and autumn.

Traveling to Lake Como with kids: If you and your family is really into outdoor adventures, Lake Como is a great place to be. Go hiking nearby, rent a boat to explore the lakes, and take adventures to the local waterfalls in Orrido di Bellano.

How Much Time Should You Spend at Lake Como? It depends on what you want to do. If you’re just visiting the lakeside towns, a few days is enough. However, if you’re planning on doing some hiking or other activities, we recommend at least a week.

Chances are, if you picture a coastal Italian town in your head, it’s either Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.

Cinque Terre is a group of five small villages on the Italian Riviera that offer dramatic coastlines, colorful houses, and tasty vineyards. Each town is beautiful, but the highlight is Manarola (pictured in the photo above). Manarola is so beautiful that it was a highlight in Italy’s tourism campaign.

What Should I See in Cinque Terre? All five villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.

When Should I Visit Cinque Terre? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Cinque Terre with kids: Kids will love visiting the five villages, exploring the coastline, and hiking between all five villages (the trail is perfect for a day trip).

How Much Time Should You Spend in Cinque Terre? If you don’t think hiking or wine tasting is up your alley, you can make a long day trip from Florence (the train ride is about two and a half hours). If you want to hike or relax on the beach, it’s best to stay for a night or two.

Verona is a large city in northern Italy best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. But there’s much more to see in Verona than just the balcony where Romeo professed his love. This city contains a first-century Roman amphitheater, medieval castles, and lovely gardens. It’s extremely underrated, and we didn’t see many other tourists while visiting.

Stroll around town, grab some gelato, and experience an Italian town not often visited by tourists.

What Should I See in Verona? The balcony of Juliet’s House, Ponte Scaligero, the Roman Arena, and the Castelvecchio Museum.

When Should I Visit Verona? Northern Italy can be fairly cold during the winter, so keep that in mind while planning your trip. Otherwise, Verona is beautiful year-round.

Traveling to Verona with kids: Kids love exploring the Roman Arena, visiting Juliet’s House, and seeing the medieval castle. Our niece liked climbing to the top of Torre dei Lamberti as well.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Verona? If you’re quick about it, you could see Verona’s highlights in just a few hours. That said, it’s well worth spending the night and enjoying local pasta.

Turin is a capital city in northwestern Italy that is sometimes overshadowed by its more famous neighbors (Florence, Milan, and Venice). But Turin has plenty of sights and activities to keep visitors entertained, including the Egyptian Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Cathedral of San Giovanni.

What Should I See in Turin? The Egyptian Museum, La Venaria Reale, the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, Basilica of Superga, and the Mole Antonelliana.

When Should I Visit Turin? September and October are the best months to visit. The autumn colors are in bloom, and the weather is pleasant.

Traveling to Turin with kids: Kids love visiting the Egyptian Museum, exploring the Public Pellerina Park, and the Planetarium of Turin.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Turin? We recommend two or three days. This gives you enough time to see all of the key sights and explore the area in a leisurely place.

Pisa is a small city in central Italy known for its iconic leaning tower and is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy.

I’m sure native Pisans would disagree, but Pisa is so small that you can see everything in the city within two or three hours.

If you’re already in the area or traveling between Cinque Terre and Florence, it’s worth a quick stop for photos.

What Should I See in Pisa? The Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery.

When Should I Visit Pisa? Since you’ll be there for such a short amount of time, it doesn’t matter too much when you visit. Peak tourist season is from June – September.

Traveling to Pisa with kids: Our niece loved climbing the tower. It offers a fantastic view of the city and the neighboring Cathedral.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Pisa? Two or three hours. Maybe a little more if you plan to climb the tower.

Bergamo is a city in northern Italy that likely won’t be many itineraries, and that’s partially the reason it makes ours. While locally, it’s known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is surrounded by medieval walls, it has gone under the radar of tourists.

Bergamo locals are more than happy to chat about their beloved city and give you recommendations on where to get drinks and authentic food.

If your idea of traveling is exploring off-the-beaten-path options, Bergamo should make your list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in Bergamo? The Citta Alta, Colleoni Chapel, Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and Piazza Vecchia.

When Should I Visit Bergamo? It’s busiest in May and June, so we’d avoid those months. Even then though, there aren’t many tourists making their way to Bergamo.

Traveling to Bergamo with kids: The Citta Alta is a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring this ancient city and learning about Italian history.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Bergamo? You can explore the main sights and Old Town in a day, but it’s worth spending the night as it’s more affordable than most cities.

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. It’s a 50 km stretch of coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea, dotted with dramatic cliffs, picturesque colorful towns, and crystal clear waters.

It’s also home to some of the scariest roads we’ve come across thus far in our travels. Seriously, taking a bus to the Amalfi Coast is like a close brush with death.

The Perfect Day Trip to Amalfi

Planning on visiting Amalfi? You have a couple of options if you’re leaving from Rome. Click here to learn more.

What Should I See on the Amalfi Coast? The towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello.

When Should I Visit the Amalfi Coast? Head to the Amalfi Coast in May or September. They’re just outside the peak tourist season, but the weather is still enjoyable.

Traveling to the Amalfi Coast with kids: Go swimming for beautiful views of the cliffs and towns, hike Path of the Gods for one of the best coastal trails we’ve experienced, and rent kayaks to paddle around the coastline.

How Much Time Should You Spend on the Amalfi Coast? If you’re going to the Amalfi Coast for a beach vacation, we recommend three or four days. This will give you enough time to explore the towns and do some swimming and hiking. You could also take a long day trip from Naples and see the highlights.

Pompeii is a small town near Naples that was destroyed by a volcano in 79 AD. The entire town was covered in ash, preserving it for thousands of years. Today, it’s a popular archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see the town’s ruins.

Want to learn more about Mount Vesuvius and how it destroyed Pompeii? We wrote the guide on it.

What Should I See in Pompeii? The ruins of the town, including the Forum, the amphitheater, and the Villa of Mysteries.

When Should I Visit Pompeii? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Pompeii with kids: There’s only one thing to do here, but booking a tour guide made it more enjoyable. Our guide helped paint a picture of life before the eruption and made seeing the ruins more exciting.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Pompeii? You can see the whole site in about two or three hours. We recommend you take a day trip from Rome.

How to Visit Pompeii From Rome

Pompeii is one of Italy’s best history lessons. Explore the ancient ruins with our guide.

The Dolomites are a mountain range in northern Italy known for their dramatic peaks, alpine forests, and lovely meadows. They’re extraordinarily beautiful and popular destinations for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.

The scenery offered by the Dolomites is on par with the best mountain ranges I’ve seen in the United States, Western Canada, Iceland, and Switzerland. Seriously, as soon as you arrive, you’ll wish you had visited sooner.

What Should I See in the Dolomites? The peaks of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Val di Fassa valley, and the Marmolada glacier.

When Should I Visit the Dolomites? Spring, summer, or fall. Avoid the winter if you’re not interested in skiing.

Traveling to the Dolomites with kids: The Dolomites are a great place to visit with kids. The hiking and mountain biking offers some incredible views. We recommend the Cinque Torri and Tre Cime di Lavaredo hikes.

How Much Time Should You Spend in the Dolomites? We recommend three days. This will give you enough time for scenic drives, hiking, biking, and soaking up views you won’t get elsewhere.

Capri is an island off the coast of Sorrento and is known for its mountainous coastlines, luxury hotels, and designer shops.

While not a large island by any means, there are some great hiking and swimming holes. Plus, it’s fun to watch all of the boats and yachts drive by. Somehow there’s always a bigger yacht.

If you’re looking for a beach town, Capri is a must see place in Italy.

What Should I See in Capri? The Blue Grotto, Villa Jovis, Faraglioni rocks, and Capri town.

When Should I Visit Capri? Avoid the summer heat and explore Capri during the other three seasons.

Traveling to Capri with kids: Like most of the other beach towns and cities, some of your best options are to go swimming. Head to the Blue Grotto and explore an underwater cave and the most bright blue water I’ve ever seen.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Capri? Catch a boat from Sorrento and have a fantastic day trip filled with outdoor activities.

I admit the first time I visited Bologna, I didn’t get the appeal. I was looking in the wrong areas. Bologna has a beautiful historic center, but the heart of Bologna is its people.

Visit one of the many excellent restaurants, and the locals will gladly tell you about their city. Explore the University of Bologna for a history lesson in the world’s oldest university. Go walk through the streets and be amongst the people. That’s how you should enjoy Bologna.

Now, when I am helping friends decide on where to visit in Italy, Bologna makes the list.

What Should I See in Bologna? The Basilica di San Petronio, the Palazzo Re Enzo, the Fountain of Neptune, and the University of Bologna.

When Should I Visit Bologna? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Bologna with kids: If your children are interested in cars, Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini is a fascinating museum with a lot of classic Italian cars.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Bologna? We recommend spending a night or two in Bologna.

Mount Etna is an active volcano on the island of Sicily. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions on Italy’s largest island, and for a good reason. You can take a cable car to the top, hike around the crater, or even go skiing in the winter.

I’ve never hiked on an active volcano before Mount Etna, and the experience is very surreal. The dried lava and red coloration made me feel like I was walking on Mars.

Make sure you bring clothes you don’t mind getting dirty because you’re pants and sneakers are going to be covered in soot.

If you’re looking for a place to visit in Italy that is a little out of the norm, Mount Etna is must-see.

When Should I Visit Mount Etna? Spring or fall. Sicily in summer is brutal, so we advise skipping it. Winter is beautiful, and you can ski on the mountain.

How Much Time Should You Spend on Mount Etna? A day trip from Catania is enough time to see the highlights.

Taormina is a small town on the east coast of Sicily that sits atop a mountain. It’s known for its dramatic setting, with views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.

Taormina is also home to some of Sicily’s best beaches, as well as an ancient Greco-Roman amphitheater that is still in use today. Be sure to walk around the city at sunset for some of the most beautiful views in Italy.

Taormina holds a special place in my heart because I proposed to my wife right down the road from where this photo was taken.

No matter how many times I visit the country, Taormina always has a place on my list of must see places in Italy.

What Should I See in Taormina? The Greek Theater, the Piazza IX Aprile, and the beaches.

When Should I Visit Taormina? Avoid the summer heat and opt for spring or autumn.

Traveling to Taormina with kids: The Greek Theater is a great place to visit for a history lesson and fantastic views. Take a cable car down to the beach and enjoy the ocean.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Taormina? Taormina is best for a day trip to see the highlights. While you could spend a night or two there, it’s very expensive, and it would be more for relaxation than exploration.

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is a personal favorite of ours. Due to its proximity to Milan and Venice (it’s about halfway between both), it’s a great location to add to your Northern Italy itinerary.

The lake is surrounded by mountains and several picturesque towns along its shores. We recommend taking the 150 km (93 miles) scenic drive around the lake. Another cool option is to take the ferry between towns. Each town is beautiful in its own right, but Sirmione, at the south end of the lake, is our favorite and most popular with tourists.

You can’t go wrong with any of the towns in the Italian Lake District, as they’re all UNESCO World Heritage sites and worthy of adding to your list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See at Lake Garda? The lake towns of Sirmione, Malcesine, Limone Sul Garda, and Riva del Garda.

When Should I Visit Lake Garda? It’s beautiful all year round, but Lake Garda is best explored during the summer so you can take advantage of the crystal-clear water.

Traveling to Lake Garda with kids: All of the towns along the lake offer a variety of activities for children. but Sirmione is your best option. Go kayaking in Lake Garda, hike the nearby forests, explore Castle Scaligero, and visit Gardaland Theme Park.

How Much Time Should You Spend at Lake Garda? While you could visit the lake as a pit stop on your way to Venice or Milan, we think you should spend at least one night in a lakefront town. It’s a very romantic destination.

Naples is the third-largest Italian city and is known for its chaotic streets, passionate people, and of course, pizza. The pizza here is some of the best in the world, and you can’t visit Naples without trying it. Just be warned that it’s not like the pizza you’re used to in the United States. It’s thinner, has a slightly charred crust, and is often only topped with fresh mozzarella and basil.

Maybe more than any other city on the list, Naples feels the most lived-in. For whatever reason, we saw more people going about their day than elsewhere in the country. It was charming and offered a different atmosphere than Rome, Florence, and Milan.

What Should I See in Naples? Eat pizza (trust us, it’s amazing), visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum, and explore the historic city center. If time permits, take a day trip to Pompeii or Herculaneum.

When Should I Visit Naples? The best time to visit Naples is between March and May. Daytime temperatures hover in the 80s — making it perfect weather for the beach.

Traveling to Naples with kids: The Naples National Archaeological Museum is a great place to visit with kids. The museum has some cool ancient Roman artifacts. Also, did I mention that Naples has amazing pizza? Yeah, children will love that.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Naples? We recommend spending at least two days in Naples and southern Italy. Pompeii and Herculaneum are worth visiting, and you’ll need at least one day to eat your way through the city.

San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics and also one of Europe’s smallest countries (see map below). It’s located on the east coast of Italy and is completely landlocked by the country. San Marino is known for its medieval architecture, stunning mountain views, and tax-free status.

I know it’s cheating since San Marino is its own country, but it still makes our list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in San Marino? The Three Towers of San Marino, the Guaita Tower, the Cesta Tower, and Mount Titano.

When Should I Visit San Marino? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and winter cold.

Traveling to San Marino with kids: The Three Towers of San Marino are a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring the towers and learning about the country.

How Much Time Should You Spend in San Marino? We recommend visiting San Marino on a day trip from Florence or Bologna. It’s so small that you’ll easily see everything this country offers.

Apulia is a region in southern Italy that tourists often overlook due to how far it is from Rome and Naples. But this region has so much to offer, from its beautiful coastline to its centuries-old villages. Apulia is a great place to relax and enjoy the slow pace of life.

What Should I See in Apulia? The trulli houses, Alberobello, Ostuni, and Lecce.

When Should I Visit Apulia? Visit during the summer months so you can enjoy the crystal clear waters and do some cliff diving!

Traveling to Apulia with kids: The real highlight for kids is swimming in the warm Adriatic Sea. Some places offer kayaks for you to paddle along the coastline.

How Much Time Should You Should You Spend in Apulia? It takes a little over 2.5 hours to get from Naples to Bari and even longer to get to the smaller towns. If you plan on enjoying the beaches and sea, it’s best to spend at least one or two nights in Polignano a Mare or an equally beautiful beachtown.

Sardinia might not be as well known as Italy’s most famous island, Sicily, but this large island has equally compelling white-sand beaches, clear water, rugged coastlines, and unique culture.

Sardinia is a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of hiking trails and sightseeing options.

What Should I See in Sardinia? The beautiful beaches, Costa Smeralda (and La Madalena Archipelago), Porto Cervo, and the 1,500 BC Nuraghe (stone building).

When Should I Visit Sardinia? Avoid the summer months as they get very hot. Otherwise, spring, autumn, and winter are beautiful.

Traveling to Sardinia with kids: The beaches are a great place to visit with kids. The white-sand and azure-blue waters are fun and relaxing. Go hiking in La Maddalena and explore this beautiful island.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Sardinia? We recommend spending at least one week in Sardinia. This will give you enough time to relax on the beaches and explore the island.

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and is located on the island’s north coast. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, Mediterranean cuisine, and friendly people.

Palermo is a great place to explore Sicilain culture (note, it’s fairly different than Italian culture) and see some of the country’s most impressive buildings.

For history afficianados, Palermo is a great place to tour due to it’s role in Sicilian warfare and the Allied invasion of Sicily in World War II.

If you’re looking for a vacation spot that doesn’t include the mainland, Palermo should be on your list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in Palermo? The Norman Palace, the Cathedral of Palermo, Monreale Abbey, and Capuchin Catacombs.

When Should I Visit Palermo? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and winter cold.

Traveling to Palermo with kids: The Norman Palace is a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring this ancient palace and learning about Sicilian history.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Palermo? We recommend spending at least two days in Palermo. This will give you enough time to see all of the highlights and start your travels to other Sicilian cities, Syracuse, Catania, and Taramino.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on what type of beauty you are searching for.

Are you looking for natural beauty, or are you searching for architecturally beautiful places? If the former some places stand out for their natural beauty, including the beautiful beaches of the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, and Venice.

7 days is a short time to visit Italy, but it is possible to see some of the country’s highlights in this time frame. If you are pressed for time, we recommend focusing your trip on one specific region, such as Tuscany, Umbria, or Veneto. This will allow you to experience the area and not feel rushed. Unfortunately, this means you likely won’t be able to see any of the charming villages spread throughout Italy.

Oh, man. This answer is going to be different for everyone.

If you’re interested in art, you’ll want to stop by Rome, Florence, and Venice.

If you’re interested in architecture, you really can’t go wrong anywhere. Italy is a very old nation, so you’re bound to see really interesting buildings in any city or town.

Looking for natural beauty? The Amalfi Coast has some of the most beautiful towns in all of Italy, while the Dolomites offer some of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world.

Regardless of where you decide to go, you won’t regret visiting Italy.

The best time to visit Italy depends on what you want to do while there.

If you’re interested in outdoor activities, the spring and fall are ideal as the weather is milder.

If you’re interested in beach holidays, you’ll want to visit during the summer.

And if you’re interested in skiing, winter is the best time to go.

That being said, any time of year is a great time to visit Italy, as there is always something to see and do.

With over 10 million people visiting each year, Rome is the most visited city in Italy, followed by Florence and Venice.

Rome is a must-see for any traveler as it is home to some of the world’s most famous historical sites, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican.

Florence is a beautiful city located in Tuscany and is known for its art and architecture.

Venice is a unique city built on canals and is one of the most romantic places in the world.

Italy is a relatively expensive country to visit, but there are ways to save money.

If you’re interested in saving money on accommodation, we recommend staying in hostels.

Eating out can also be expensive, but there are ways to save money here. Look for places that have a “menu del giorno” which is a set lunch menu that is usually a fraction of the cost of ordering à la carte.

And finally, try to avoid tourist traps. These are places that are aimed at tourists and tend to be overpriced. Do some research before you go and visit places that are off the beaten path.

This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on what you want to see and do while you’re in Italy.

If you’re interested in seeing the main tourist attractions, we recommend spending at least a week in the country.

If you’re interested in exploring Italy’s smaller towns and villages, we recommend spending at least two to three weeks in the country.

And if you’re interested in getting to know Italy and its culture, we recommend spending at least a month in the country.

Of course, the more time you spend in Italy, the more you’ll be able to see and do. But even a short trip to Italy will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Recommended Booking Resources

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Kayak for Flights, Hotels, and Cars

Kayak.com makes it simple to plan your stay in Italy. All on one website, you can book your flights, hotels, and cars. The platform provides detailed descriptions, reviews, and ratings to help you choose the right place for your next stay in Italy.

Varied Accommodation Options with Booking.com

Booking.com provides a wide variety of accommodation options in Venice. From budget hostels to luxury hotels, you can find something that suits your budget and preferences.

Cheap Flights with Going.com

Going.com searches for cheap and rare flights and will notify you when one matches your home airport and a destination of your choice. We scored a non-stop, roundtrip flight from Newark (EWR) to Milan-Malpensa (MXP) for $359 in 2021 and then again from Philadelphia (PHL) to Marco Polo Airport (VCE) for $475 in 2023.

Hostelpass for Budget-Friendly Stays

HostelPass can help you save money on your accommodation. With a single flat fee, you can stay in hostels in Venice and other European cities.

Plan Your Excursions with Get Your Guide

Get Your Guide offers a range of guided tours and activities in Venice. Whether you want a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica or a cooking class, you can find it here.

Efficient Train Travel in Italy with Trainline

Trainline can help you navigate Italy’s extensive train system and get you to Venice’s Santa Lucia train and bus station. It’s an efficient way to travel between cities if you’re planning to visit more of Italy during your trip.

Pocket-Sized Wisdom: Venice Travel Guide 2023 Book

For an in-depth guide to Venice, consider purchasing the Venice Travel Guide 2023 . It’s packed with useful information, tips, and maps to help you make the most of your visit.

Sustainable Tourism: LifeStraw for Reusable Water Bottles

Help keep Venice beautiful by practicing sustainable tourism. Consider investing in a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter like LifeStraw . It’s eco-friendly and ensures you have safe drinking water wherever you go.

Walks of Italy for Culturally Rich Walking Tours

For a deep dive into Venice’s rich history and culture, consider booking a walking tour with Walks of Italy . The guides are knowledgeable, and the tours offer a great way to explore the city on foot while visiting the main sites and top attractions.

There you have it, the best places to visit in Italy. As I’m sure you realize by now, Italy is a country with much to offer! No matter what kind of vacation you are looking for, there is sure to be a city in Italy that suits your needs. From the art paradise of Florence to the stunning beaches of Sardinia, you cannot go wrong when planning a trip to this beautiful country. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream Italian vacation today! Where are some of your must-see places in Italy? Let us know in the comments below.

About Todd O'Rourke

Todd is an award-winning writer and filmmaker who co-founded Compass and Pine with his dog Leg. Together, they have traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, with their base of operations in Philadelphia.

He started Compass and Pine after living in Vicenza, Italy for three years and falling deeply in love with the country, the people, and, of course, the food.

His favorite city is Florence, Italy, and his favorite National Park is Olympic in Washington.

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November 25, 2022 at 11:42 pm

You and your dog are super cute! I’m excited to follow your next adventures (:

November 27, 2022 at 10:37 am

Hi Kathryn,

Thank you so much for the compliment. We look forward to sharing our adventures with you 🙂

Best, Todd & Leg

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Your Guide for Italy in March

Fall is my favorite time to visit Italy, but spring is my second choice because you can enjoy some mild weather, grab some low-season travel deals, and the kids have spring break! This is how we spent ten days in Italy last year. March is a great time to visit Italy, as the weather is starting to warm up, the crowds are smaller, and many exciting events and festivals are taking place throughout the country.

Technically, early March is still winter, giving you even more deals on hotels and flights. For flights, I like using Expedia, Booking for bundle deals with hotels, or just Google Flights for Hotels.

Table of Contents

Best places to visit italy in march.

Rome is a city that should be on everyone’s bucket list, and March is a great time to visit. The weather is mild, and fewer tourists make it easier to see the city’s famous sights, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican.

Florence is another must-visit city in Italy, and March is an excellent time to visit. The city is less crowded, and the weather is pleasant, making it a perfect time to explore the city’s museums, galleries, and historic buildings.

Venice is one of the most unique and romantic cities in the world. In March, the city is much quieter, and the weather is mild, making it an ideal time to explore its beautiful canals, stunning architecture, and delicious food.

Sorrento is a great city to visit in March as it tends to be warmer than the northern cities, and it is a great base city to visit Capi and the Almafi coast.

Typical March Weather in Northern Italy

In March, the weather in Northern Italy can be unpredictable. The temperature can range from 5°C to 15°C, and there is a possibility of rain and even snow. Packaging layers, including a warm coat, gloves, and a hat, is essential. The good news is that the days are getting longer, so you can enjoy more daylight hours.

Typical Weather in Southern Italy

The weather in Southern Italy is milder than the north, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is usually sunny, but there is still a chance of rain—pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.

What to pack for an Italy Trip in March

Preparing for changing weather is important when traveling to Italy in March. Here are some things to pack:

• A warm coat, gloves, and a hat for Northern Italy
• Layers of clothing, including a light jacket or sweater for Southern Italy
• Comfortable walking shoes
• An umbrella or raincoat
• A camera to capture all the beautiful sights
• Electrical adapters 
• A guidebook or map to help you navigate the country
• Super comfortable shoes for day walking and warm shoes for the night.
• Black and White T-shirts
• Black and white Tank Tops
• Black Leggings
• 3 Pairs of jeans
• Two Maxy dresses
• One Other pair of pants
• Two Cardigans 

How Long to Stay in Italy in March

Your interests and travel budget will determine how long your trip to Italy lasts. We advise at least a week to spend touring the most well-known cities, including Rome, Florence, and Venice. Other cities and areas, such as Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and the Italian Lakes, can be explored if you have more time, such as these. You can also take a two-week trip to some of the less popular but no less stunning locations, including Bologna, Naples, and Matera.

Planning a trip to Italy can be difficult because there is so much to see and do there. Consider taking a tour that visits the nation’s top attractions if you don’t have much time. Renting a car or taking the train are good options if you have more time and want to travel at your own pace.

A trip to Italy should last at least 10 days, in my opinion.

Is March a good time to visit Rome

I’ve been to Rome in March on two separate occasions and I think it’s a fantastic time to go. You will find fantastic flight deals to Rome in March. Typically, you can find flights for less than $600 or even less than $500, depending on what airport you are flying out of. You do need to book it in advance, as flights do go up, and as I have been seeing some Rome Tik%Tok videos this month, the town is pretty full even for February.

Where to Stay in Rome in March

In March, I find Monti to be one of my favorite neighborhoods in Rome. You can find fantastic flight deals to Rome in March. There are excellent restaurants and bars nearby, and the major attractions are easily accessible on foot. I also suggest Trastevere for couples. Although it’s farther away, it’s such a cool place to feel like a local. 

10 Things to do in Rome in March for Couples

• Book a rooftop hot tub at 77th Hotel and watch the sunset with a bubbly.
• Stroll through Villa Borghese, one of the most romantic parks in Rome, and take a picnic with you.
• Visit the Trevi Fountain, throw a coin over your shoulder, and make a wish. Do go early in the morning or stop by the evening.
• Go shopping and get some end-of-winter season deals.
• Take a cooking class together and learn how to make authentic Italian dishes.
• Explore the Vatican City, which is home to the world-famous Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Visit mass for Easter if you are there during Easter.
• Explore the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and authentic trattorias. This is my favorite neighborhood for people-watching, drinking, and eating.
• Stop by Ai Tre Scalini in Monti.
• Grab a delicious cocktail in Monti House Bar.

10 Unique Things to do in Rome in March for Families

• Time Elevator – a 5D cinema experience that takes you through the history of Rome, from its foundation to the present day.
• Villa Borghese: This is Rome’s most famous park and a perfect place for a picnic. Families can rent a bike or take a leisurely walk through the gardens, and the park also has several playgrounds for children.
• The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità): Located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, this ancient marble mask is said to bite off the hands of liars. Kids will love putting their hands in its mouth and taking a photo!
• Baths of Caracalla – a well-preserved ancient Roman bathhouse that is sure to impress both kids and adults alike with its grandeur and scale.
• Cinecittà: This is Rome’s largest film studio and has been the setting for many famous movies. The studio offers guided tours that take visitors behind the scenes and show how movies are made. Kids will love seeing sets from popular films like Ben-Hur and Gangs of New York.
• Bioparco: This is Rome’s zoo, which is home to over 200 different species of animals. The zoo also has a petting zoo and a playground, making it a great place for families with young children.
• Appian Way: Take a bike tour or a walk along this ancient road that once connected Rome to the south of Italy. You’ll see ancient tombs and ruins, and can take a break to explore the Catacombs of San Callisto.
• Palazzo Valentini: This palace has an underground museum that uses virtual technology to recreate ancient Rome. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, which let visitors explore ancient Roman houses, temples, and markets.
• The Pyramid of Cestius: Located near the Protestant Cemetery, this ancient pyramid is an unexpected sight in the middle of Rome. Kids will love the idea of exploring a real-life pyramid.
• Catacombs of San Callisto – an underground maze of tunnels that were used for Christian burials. A unique and fascinating way to learn about Rome’s early Christian history.
• Eat Gelato and buy Easter Baskets filled with Bacci chocolate. You can find these at grocery shops, and they are pretty affordable. I wish we had bought one at the beginning of our trip last year and eaten it throughout our vacation.

Tuscany in March

Just like the fall, March is also a great time to visit Tuscany. I recommend you visit smaller towns like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Chincianco, Orvieto, and Sienna. You can take a road trip from Rome to Florence or the train straight to Florence. Stay in Florence for at least 4 days and make day trips to Tuscany cities.

15 Unique Things to do in Tuscany in March

• Visit a hot spring. Our favorite has been the Terme in Chinciano and the Bagni San Fillipo. This is a good way to unwind and relax after walking so much in either Florence or Rome.
• Half-day trip to Sienna. Sienna is such a beautiful medieval town. You need to take an escalator up, and I find that kids and teens both love how unique it is.
• Visit the Etruscan Tombs in Sovana: Sovana is a small town located in the Maremma region of Tuscany. It’s known for its ancient Etruscan tombs, which are carved into the tuff stone that the town is built on. This is a great opportunity for families to learn about ancient Etruscan culture and history.
• Explore the Carrara Marble Quarries: The Carrara Marble Quarries are located in the Apuan Alps in Tuscany. The quarries have been in operation for over 2,000 years, and have provided marble for some of the world’s most famous sculptures and buildings. Families can take a tour of the quarries and even try their hand at carving their own piece of marble.
• Discover the Tarot Garden: The Tarot Garden is an outdoor sculpture garden located in the southern part of Tuscany. The garden was created by the French artist Niki de Saint Phalle, and features 22 large-scale sculptures that are based on the tarot cards. This is a unique and magical place that will delight both kids and adults.
• Attend the Joust of the Saracen in Arezzo: The Joust of the Saracen is a medieval festival that takes place in the town of Arezzo every year. The festival features a jousting competition between the four neighborhoods of the town, and includes elaborate costumes and pageantry. This is a great way to experience medieval culture and history in a fun and engaging way.
• Walk the Vie Cave in Pitigliano: The Vie Cave are a series of ancient Etruscan roads that are carved into the tuff stone in the town of Pitigliano. The roads are narrow and winding, and offer a unique and fascinating way to explore the town and its history.
• Visit the Apennine Wolf Center: The Apennine Wolf Center is located in the Casentino National Park in Tuscany. The center is dedicated to the conservation of the Apennine wolf, which is a native species to the area. Families can take a guided tour of the center and learn about the behavior and habitat of this majestic animal.
• Explore the Devil’s Valley: The Devil’s Valley is a natural park located in the town of Roccastrada in Tuscany. The park features a unique landscape of eroded rock formations and is said to have been the site of many supernatural events throughout history. Families can take a guided tour of the park and learn about its geology and folklore.
• Learn to make pizza and gelato: Tuscany is known for its delicious food, and what better way to experience it than by learning to make it yourself? Many towns in Tuscany offer cooking classes for families, where you can learn to make traditional Italian dishes like pizza and gelato.
• Walk the Lucca Walls: The town of Lucca is surrounded by ancient walls that were built in the 16th century. The walls offer a great way to explore the town and take in its history and architecture. Families can walk or bike along the walls and enjoy the views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
• Montepulciano: This hilltop town is known for its medieval architecture and world-renowned wine. Families can visit the Palazzo Comunale, the town’s main square, and take a wine-tasting tour of the region’s famous Vino Nobile. Check out these great tips on What to do With Kids in Montepulciano.
• Val d’Orcia: This scenic valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. Families can visit the historic town of Pienza, the hot springs in Bagno Vignoni, and take a scenic drive through the winding roads and cypress tree-lined hills. Stay at this magnificnetg B and B and ride horses or do a spa day.
• Arezzo: This historic town is often overlooked by tourists but has plenty to offer. Families can visit the medieval castle, admire the frescoes at the Church of San Francesco, and stroll through the town’s antique markets.
• Go shopping and let your kids pick where.

March Holidays and Festivals in Italy

• Festa della Donna: Festa della Donna or International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th in Italy. It is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Many events are organized throughout the country, including concerts, exhibitions, and parades.
• Carnevale di Venezia: Carnevale di Venezia is a festival held in Venice, which is known for its elaborate masks and costumes. The festival takes place in February and March and includes parades, parties, and concerts.
• Easter Easter is a significant holiday in Italy, and many events and traditions take place throughout the country. The most famous is the Holy Week celebrations in Rome, which include processions, masses, and other religious ceremonies.
• Anniversary of Caesar’s death: March 15. This is an important one to keep in mind id visiting Rome in March. This was happening when we visited last year, and it got hectic. Roads were closed, and hotel rates went up if you left the booking last minute. So this is essentially a marathon help in Ceasar’s honor. It is a 42 km course covering popular spots around the city, including the Vatican and Colosseum.
• One of the most important wine festivals in Italy is celebrated in a small town on the Tuscan coast called Lido di Camaiore. Over 100 producers, winemakers and international labels participate in Terre di Toscana , representing the most important wine areas and DOCs in the Tuscan region. It will occur on March 26 and March 27 this year. Read more here. https://terreditoscana.info/.
• Festa di San Giuseppe/Father’s Day in Italy.
• Florentine New Year, aka Feast of the Annunciation.
• Dantedì, National Dante Alighieri Day.
• Mid-­ to Late ­March – Pesto World Pesto Championship, Genoa.

Here is a table of Full Calendar of Events for Italy March 2023.

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Rome in March: all you need to know to plan your trip in 2024

All you need to know for a trip to Rome in March. What to expect from the weather, what to pack and what to do in Rome in the spring

March in Rome is a wonderful month.

This is the time when spring envelops the city and while the weather may well play tricks on you, usually you can expect mild temperatures and bright days, perfect for sightseeing.

The tail end of winter and start of spring also one of the rare moments when Rome knows a low tourism season.

While crowds do start creeping up in March (especially if you get an early Easter), this still often a good month for seeing Rome on a budget .

This is our guide to visiting Rome in March!

Need to know! You can find here >>> a list of official sources with regulations and restrictions that may affect your stay.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Weather in Rome in March

The 21st of March marks the start of the spring in Rome and indeed, March in Rome sees the transition from the tail end of winter to the start of spring proper.

The weather is notoriously changeable at this time and Italians even have a saying about it: ‘Marzo pazzerello, esce il sole prendi l’ombrello’ (‘Crazy March, the sun comes out, take the umbrella’).

However, inn general and climate change permitting, you should expect good weather with only the occasional shower of rain.

The  average temperature in Rome in March is   12C/53F  with a range from 17C/63F to 6C/43F degrees.

Usually you have about 7 days of rain in Rome in March and this tends to be heavy downpours rather than a drizzle.

A travel umbrella will be your best friend at this time although rain tends to come in forms of showers so, usually, you can simply find refuge somewhere and quickly resume sightseeing

What to wear in Rome in March

March in Rome sees changeable weather but usually mild temperature. Early mornings and evenings tend to be cold and you will need to wrap up a little more but overall, mid-season clothes and layers should suffice.

If you are traveling to Rome in March, it is important to pack:

• Good walking shoes, waterproof (ankle boots or winter sneakers are perfect)
• Socks and tights
• Long trousers
• Long sleeve tops
• Short sleeve ones
• Sweaters (woolen and lighter)
• Winter coat if used to warm climates (Italians tend to wear coats at this time), mid-season waterproof jacket if used to cold weather

Find here >>> my complete packing list for Rome in March

The crowds in Rome in March 2024

March is expected to be exceptionally busy in Rome this year. Raster falls at the end of the month; therefore it is safe to assume the week leading up to it and the last weekend in March will be exceptionally busy.

At this time, it is best to book accommodation and main attractions such as the Colosseum and the Vatican in advance, to secure a convenient slot.

Dates of notice in Rome in March

In 2024, Easter falls during the last weekend in March. This has a knock-on effect on dates of notice in March in Rome this year.

The 8th of March is international women’s day and Rome, like the rest of Italy, celebrates with mimosa flowers, the traditional gift to women (from men and from each other) which will find for sale at every corner. Often, on this day, attractions have discounts and even free entry for women.

The 19th of March , St Joseph’s, is marked by the Vatican Museums which stay close for the day.

Palm Sunday : The Sunday before easter, commemorating Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem.

The church celebrates distributing small olive branches or palm leaves to the people attending mass. 

Maundy Thursday : The Thursday before Easter is an important day for the Christian church and the many churches in Rome mark the occasion opening their doors until late in the day for a visit to the ‘sepolcri’ (sepulchers), the altars dressed up in purple draping to commemorate the passion of Jesus.

A visit to the ‘sepolcri’ is a religious ritual however, considering the beauty of many of Rome’s churches, many non religious locals and tourists also partake in it as a sightseeing opportunity.

Holy Friday / Good Friday (Venerdi’ Santo) : Rome sees important celebrations on the Holy Friday and the most important takes place near the Colosseum, where the Pope leads the  via crucis . 

It is important to know about this celebration not just if you want to participate but also for a very practical reason: the whole accessibility of the area changes during the  via crucis  and traffic is diverted, something you need to take into account especially if you happen to have accommodation in the area! 

Easter Sunday  is a great celebration in Rome but most attractions and tourist sites are open on this day. You may, however, encounter reduced public transport hours so planning extra time o get anywhere is a must

The best things to do in Rome in March

The  best things to see in Rome  in March are a mix of sightseeing, shopping and food experiences.

Visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine

The Colosseum is fantastic to visit in March.

At this time, the days are likely to be mild (in summer, it gets oppressively hot) and the crowds are usually thin enough to allow for a pleasant experience.

Access to the Colosseum is by booking only. There is a vast choice of tickets and tours to choose from. For ease, I have put together here >>> a list with the best tickets for the Colosseum and tours

March is also a good time to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine hill.

Both these areas house some of the most impressive Roman ruins in the city and they are outdoors, so you feel a little like walking in a park. Wonderful during mild March!

At this time, the blossoms start returning to the Palatine, making is truly stunning.

Good to know for March 2023! In March 2023, it again possible to buy tickets for the Roman Forum only (all others include the Colosseum)! These tickets are great if you have already seen the Colosseum in other occasions or you want to tap into some of the hidden gems of the Forum such as wonderful Santa Maria Antiqua and the so called Temple of Romulus. They are also much easier to get than the Colosseum ones and you don’t need to plan with as much notice! Info and tickets here.

Visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Vatican City

The Vatican Museums are exceptionally busy in March, especially in years such as 2024 and 2025, which see Easter celebrate at this time and the Jubilee.

The Museums are mostly famed for the stunning Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo; however, they are a treasure trove of art masterpieces and they can easily fill up a whole day.

I highly recommend getting a tour if you want to see the highlights or are short on time.

You can find here >>> my tips for Visiting the Vatican

Go to a free museum

In March many Rome museums and attractions are free to visit on the first Sunday of the month.

This is a great opportunity to visit some of Rome’s main attractions on a budget but be warned: crowds are intense and attractions such as the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery still require a reservation – the cost of tickets is, however, waived on this day.

Celebrate International Women’s Day with a branch of mimosas or a FREE visit to a cultural attraction

On the 8th of March, Italy celebrates International Women’s Day.

In Rome, you will notice many people selling and gifting mimosa flowers but you will also find initiatives such as free entry to cultural attraction for women on this day. Check sites of individual attractions for info and tickets.

You can read here >>> all about International Women’s Day in Italy (festa della donna)

Visit Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel SAnt’Angelo is one of my favorite attractions in Tome and a delight to visit in spring.

An ancient mausoleum turned Papal Fortress, it is a place full of history and, thanks to its location along the Tiber, one of the best places to catch fantastic views over Rome!

You can find here >>> my guide to Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome

Visit the Masterpieces of the Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery is one of the most beautiful art museums in Rome and the world.

It has an invaluable collection of paintings and statues by masters such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Bernini and Canova and it is an unmissable sight for art lovers.

Located inside the Borghese Gardens, it is lovely to visit I nMarch as you can easily mix a visit with a stroll along this park’s beautiful spaces.

Find here >>> our guide to the Borghese Gallery

Follow the footsteps of Bernini

Bernini is one of the most prolific artists who ever called Rome his home and has left many masterpieces in several locations in the city, including museums, churches and piazzas.

If you love his work or want to get familiar with Rome’s Baroque art, you can take a stroll around the city to admire his most significant creations.

You can do this in your own following our tips here >>> where to see Bernini in Rome

Visit Rome’s catacombs

Under Rome there is an extensive network of ancient tunnels: the catacombs.

The catacombs are early Christian cemeteries and one of the most fascinating sites in the city.

Accessible by guided tours only, they are a unique place to learn about the beginning of Christianity in the city and they are un aqua to the city.

I particularly recommend visiting the catacombs in March. Those on Via Appia are surrounded by stunning nature, perfect for a spring walk!

You can find here >>> my guide to Rome’s catacombs

Explore Rome piazzas

The spring is a glorious time to visit Rome’s famous piazzas. Head to Piazza Navona, Piazza del Pantheon,  Campo de’ fiori , the Trevi fountain and the Spanish steps but also allow yourself to explore some  hidden gems and parks.

Have a drink in one of Rome’s most beautiful terraces

March is a pleasant time to enjoy Rome’s stunning rooftop terraces.

If you fancy a drink with a view, you can find list of our favorite Rome terrace bars here .

Go to the park

Rome has beautiful parks and there is no time like the spring to enjoy them.

For grand and beautiful choose Villa Borghese (here you have the famous Borghese Gallery but also the small Rome zoo, a pond and playgrounds for kids) and get off the beaten path and explore Rome’s botanical gardens in Trastevere, stunning at this time.

Find here >>> our favorite parks in Rome

Take a stroll on the Tiber island

Rome has a small island, Isola Tiberina, which is an unusual and pretty spot to visit.

The island is close to Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto, very easy to add to a city center Rome itinerary, and it has interesting architecture and stories to tell, as well as a couple of lovely traditional restaurants.

You can learn here >>> all about the Tiber Island in Rome

Eat to your heart content on a Rome food tour

A food tour in spring can be a lovely way to mix sightseeing and food discoveries.

These are food tours worth considering:

 Rome Street Food Tour with local guide

  Trastevere evening Food tour

  Rome espresso, gelato and tiramisu tasting tour

When you are in Rome in March, the  glorious Roman food in season I recommend includes:

• Carbonara, Gricia, Amatriciana pasta: warming and tasting and perfect for the slightly cooler weather of this season
• Abbacchio scottadito (lamb cutlets)
• Seasonal vegetables , asparagus and chicory in particular
• Suppli, fried balls of rice with a melting mozzarella heart
• Coda alla vaccinara, oxtail

Go church hopping

Visiting churches is one of the best things to do in Rome any time of the year but it becomes exceptionally pleasurable (and handy!) in case of random rain showers

Some I love and recommend seeking out are Santa Prassede, San Luigi dei Francesi, Santa Maria della Vittoria and Santa Sabina but really: when you see a church in Rome, peek in as chances are it is worth a stop!

Churches are one of the  best free things to see in Rome !

March in Rome with kids

You can find here >>>> over 50 of my favorite  things to do in Rome with children  in March.

At a glance, things we love are:

Rome main sites

Rome historical sites are easy to visit with kids.

Some we find fun and easy to manage at all ages are:

• The Colosseum (especially if combined with the Forum and the Palatine Hill)
• Caracalla’s Baths, which have tons of space to run around
• Castel Sant’Angelo, especially for kids age 5 and up
• Villa Borghese, a park with anything for kids from a pond to bikes to playground and even a puppet theater!

Go to Explora

Explora  is Rome’s children’s museum and it is a wonderful place to explore with kids. In March, this is an exceptionally handy place to know for a rainy day or any time the weather doesn’t seem suitable for extended hours in the park

Learn a traditional craft

Indoor activities can be a lifesaver in Rome on a rainy day and one we adored was an art class we took with the wonderful people of Arte al Sole. the one we chose was a  mosaic making class  which was perfect for crafty kids.

Take a pasta or pizza-making class

Those I recommend for families with kids are:

Pasta making with Lucilla >>  read here our review  <<< If you contact her on Instagram and tell her I sent you, she’ll give you a special price! Tell her you found her on MamaLovesRome!

Pasta making class and gelato demonstration with Devour Tour / City experiences  >>>  read our review here <<< a fantastic class in Trastevere especially suitable for families with teens. 

With kids, we did just that with a local  pizza class for families  followed, of course, by tucking into our own creation! Book here >>>  pizza class for kids in Rome  <<< 

You can find many more of our  recommendations on great family tours in Rome here

I hope you enjoyed this post and it helped you plan your spring trip to Rome. Safe travels!

This post was first published in 2019 and has now been fully updated.

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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Italy in March 2024

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Are you thinking about visiting Italy in March?

As you may have heard, in Italy, March is the month of the year when the air turns crisp and the temperatures rise significantly .

Weather throughout the country is generally pleasant and with an increasing number of sunny days on the horizon, Italy in March is the perfect place to be!

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Italy in March

Whether you’re thinking of visiting for a short weekend break or venturing out on an Italian road trip, just know that you’ll be visiting Italy when the tourist crowds are yet to have arrived and when accommodation is even more affordable .

As you probably already know Italy is known for many things (not just Pizza and Pasta like many people imagine) and there is no better place to visit in Europe when you want to experience a wide variety of food and delicacies.

So put on a light coat, a pair of sunglasses and comfortable shoes: starting from north to south, let’s explore the best places to visit in March in Italy!

Is Italy worth visiting in March?

There are a plethora of reasons to visit Italy in March. The country is full of old villages and big cities worth exploring as well as some of the most beautiful countryside and coastlines that you can find in Europe.

So let’s start this inspirational travel guide by looking at a few of our reasons why you should be around this part of the world during the month of March.

• Even though spring doesn’t start until the end of March, we can safely say that winter can be considered a thing of the past. Temperatures go significantly up but at the same time, it won’t still be too hot. These are the optimal weather conditions to visit the country without suffering from the summer’s heat.
• Flights and accommodation prices are even more affordable . March is not the most popular month to travel to Italy and for this reason, you can find great deals if you book a few months in advance, as we usually recommend doing.
• Spring is the perfect time of the year to move around Italy as the weather is pleasant and the amount of things to see and do is endless! There’s no better time to organize a road trip or hop on the train and travel to different cities. We got you covered in our practical travel itinerary that covers 2 weeks in Italy and is perfect to follow if using public transport.

We believe that for the 3 reasons above, Italy in March is just a great time to explore the country and make the most of its beautiful landscapes and cities.

Italy in March weather 2023

March in Italy is a cold month even if temperatures are slightly increasing all over the country, the average temperature remains at 15 °C .

Expect to find rainy days too, so it’s a good idea to carry a small umbrella and a good rain jacket to protect yourself from the elements when walking around.

It’s not yet the best time to go to the beach if you’re thinking about visiting coastal towns, but it’s ideal to go sightseeing, go on excursions and visit museums or art galleries.

Since the weather is unstable , be sure to check the forecast before your trip and include both outdoor and indoor activities in your itinerary.

In March, we advise getting dressed in layers so you can easily add or remove clothes based on the temperatures you encounter.

Since you’ll be spending most of your time visiting attractions, wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or boots. You don’t need to carry wool clothing, but warm cotton is highly recommended.

Things to do in Italy in March

Let’s now take a look at the things to do in Italy in March , by starting with some of the most iconic places which are on the bucket list of many!

Venice in March

March in Venice is the ideal time to visit the city of canals and bridges and explore its invaluable artistic and architectural heritage. Finally, winter is gone, and the city seems to come to a new life.

Every year can change, but normally during this month the Carnival is celebrated. There’s no better time to be in Venice to see masks and costumes around the streets and piazzas.

With the nice weather, it’s great to visit the main attractions such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge as well as go on a gondola ride and admire the colors of the city from the Grand Canal.

There might be a chance of encountering the high tide and one or two rainy days, but it shouldn’t stop you to visit Venice in March.

In March, Venice’s New Year (Capodanno Veneziano) is also celebrated on the 1st of March, Women’s Day on the 8th of March with the Regatta delle Donne and, depending on the year, even Easter .

Since temperatures are around 15 °C, if you’re spending more than 2 days in Venice , we recommend visiting the Venetian Lagoon and other islands such as Murano, Burano and Torcello for the most fantastic experience possible.

Rome in March

Early spring is the perfect time to be in Rome, Italy’s capital city, also called the ‘Eternal City’ for the immense historical heritage that the city counts on.

If you’ve never been to Italy before, then Rome is a must-see destination for first time visitors, with a thousand attractions and hidden gems worth discovering. If you’re in Rome in March expect to find an average temperature of 16 °C, and some days with a peak of 22 °C.

This is the perfect weather to walk around its streets, wonderful piazzas and neighborhoods . Take your time to admire landmarks such as the Colosseum and Roman Forums , the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain , just to name a few (and book your tickets in advance to avoid long entrance queues).

In March, you can also celebrate Women’s Day, like the rest of Italy does, to commemorate the death of Julius Cesar on the 15th of March and see the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna covered with colorful flowers in bloom!

If traveling with family, it’s worth knowing that on the 19th of March, St. Joseph is celebrated which corresponds with Father’s Day in most Catholic countries. So there’s no better time to go out for an authentic Roman dinner in the Trastevere quarter and celebrate.

Amalfi Coast in March

Traveling to the Amalfi Coast in March is a good idea if you want to avoid the big crowds taking over the streets and beaches of this wonderful coastal area in the south of Italy.

Temperatures are around 16 °C which is just perfect to spend time exploring the towns, go hiking on the Path of the Gods (one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Italy) and plan day trips to close by destinations such as Sorrento, Pompeii and Naples.

March is still not a good time to go to the beach , go snorkeling or practice water sports, but you can still go on boat trips around the area or to the popular island of Capri while here.

Accommodation is very affordable, but be aware that many hotels and restaurants undergo renovation work during this time to get ready for the busy summer season.

If you’re in Positano or Amalfi , hop on a bus or hire a car or scooter and visit other villages of the Amalfi Coast . We recommend visiting Ravello, Cetara and Vietri sul Mare.

Wherever you’ll be on the Amalfi Coast, you can indulge in the delicious local cuisine and try the exquisite limoncello, a liqueur prepared with fresh lemons.

Florence in March

The ‘cradle of Renaissance’ is what people called Florence in the past. That’s because of its ancient history, and its artistic and architectural gems, this Italian city is one of those destinations that you have to visit at least once in your life.

Florence in March is the ideal time to wander around its beautiful cobblestoned streets , stare in front of the Duomo and the David by Michelangelo and visit its incredible museums, and more specifically the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries .

During Father’s Day in Florence, you should absolutely try the famous Zeppole di San Giuseppe , a lovely creamy pastry, traditionally prepared for this occasion. On the 25th of March, you can celebrate the Florentine New’s Year which corresponds with the start of spring (more or less) .

If you love chocolate and you’re here during the first days of the month, it’s worth going to the Chocolate Fair that takes place in Piazza Santa Croce.

With the rise in temperature it is also a great time to walk around the Giardini dei Boboli , not far from the city center and go for long walks along the Arno river .

In the case that you decide to spend more than 2 days in Florence , then why don’t you go and explore the wonderful Tuscan countryside? You could also cover Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano in one day if you plan your time wisely.

Naples in March

Naples, one of the most important cities in the south of Italy and of course, pizza’s motherland. Naples is just a great city to visit in March for so many reasons.

Temperatures during this month can easily reach 17 °C , and there is less chance of rainy days compared to the north of Italy.

This means Naples is worth visiting for its enjoyable weather perfect to explore the city on foot, walk down Spaccanapoli (the street dividing the city into two) where you can stop for a pizza or a sample of other traditional Neapolitan street foods .

Since March is not considered as the high season, you’ll most certainly find cheap accommodation in and around the city center and (almost) zero queues to visit the main attractions.

Make sure you visit the Cappella di San Severo with the statue of the Veiled Christ, the Santa Chiara cloister, Piazza Plebiscito and the Umberto I Gallery . From the Caracciolo promenade you can admire the Gulf of Naples and the volcano Vesuvius.

Another great panoramic spot to see the entire gulf is the Castel dell’Ovo. Depending on how many days in Naples you’ll spend, you also plan one or more day trips .

We really recommend visiting the archaeological site of Pompeii , spend a day in Sorrento or the Amalfi Coast or visit the islands of Ischia , Procida and Capri .

Milan in March

Milan is the fashion capital city and the second-largest metropolis after Rome. If you’re thinking about visiting Milan in March, then there’s no better time to go!

Temperature rise to 15 °C during this month which is ideal for strolling around the city centre and visiting the main landmarks. Check out the stunning Duomo di Milano , the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery and the Sforzesco Castle.

There’s no better time of the year to go on a nice walk along the Navigli or inside the Sempione Park and make the most of the nice weather.

On a rainy day , we recommend visiting some iconic museums such as the Museo del Novecento , the Pinacoteca di Brera and check out The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci inside the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

Go window-shopping , or on a shopping-spree if you’re traveling with a high budget, in the fashion district called Quadrilatero della Moda and indulge in the aperitivo ritual with a nice Aperol Spritz, since Milan claims to be the best place in Italy to try this experience.

If you’re staying in Milan for more than 2 days, then you can also visit nearby towns such as Mantua or Parma or visit the Lake Como .

Palermo in March

Palermo in Sicily is the southernmost big city in Italy and counts on a Mediterranean climate and in March temperatures can go up to 17 °C .

This pleasant climate is great for visiting the city’s beautiful artistic and architectural treasures learn more about its ancient past.

Sicilian food is considered one of the best in the country, so why don’t make the most of the enjoyable weather by joining this street food and history walking tour while you’re here?

During your walk, you’ll have the chance to visit Piazza Beati Paoli, the Cathedral , the Baroque square of Quattro Canti and the Pretoria fountain with a stop at the Capo Market .

Palermo faces the homonymous gulf and if the days are sunny and warm, you can spend some time at the beach Mondello , where locals love to hang out.

During this month, you can also visit nearby towns like the picturesque Cefalù and Monreale or go to the Valley of Temples in Agrigento and visit one of the most important ancient Greek archaeological sites in the world.

As you can see Italy in March is a great place to explore. Whichever destination you’re more inclined to visit, based on your personal preferences and interests, you’ll find a pleasant weather in March more or less all around the country.

Temperatures are ideal to visit landmarks and the main attractions and to avoid most of the tourist crowds of the summer months.

You probably won’t want to spend time on the beach or try any water sports yet, but you can plan day trips and excursions. Another positive note is in March prices for accommodation and flights are still not sky-high and this will allow you to save money.

So if Italy is on your list, and you weren’t sure if March was a good time, now you can be reassured that it’s a great choice.

While you’re here, be sure to read some of our best sustainable travel tips to ensure your stay has the best possible impact on the local environment.

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Explore the Riviera

Nice in march: a travel guide.

As March rolls in, bringing with it the gentle warmth of early spring, the picturesque city of Nice on the French Riviera (that I’m lucky to call home!) transforms into a haven of new beginnings and vibrant experiences.

March in Nice is a time when the air is filled with the scent of blooming flowers, the days gradually become longer, and the city streets start buzzing with renewed energy.

Moreover, the arrival of spring in Nice brings with it a calendar filled with events and festivities, like the Paris-Nice Bike Race and the end of the Nice Carnival, making it an ideal time for those who wish to experience the city’s lively atmosphere.

In this guide, you will find all the information you need to know before visiting Nice in March.

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera. You can also get a custom itinerary made by me here or check out my travel guides for Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez.

Is Nice worth visiting in March?

Absolutely, Nice is a fantastic destination to visit in March.

As spring begins to unfold, the city welcomes you with mild and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring its vibrant streets and stunning seafront.

An added advantage of visiting in March is the thinner crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience of the city’s many attractions, cafes, and shops. Events like MIPIM make day trips like Cannes more exciting as well.

The culinary scene also adapts to the season, with local restaurants serving fresh spring dishes that showcase the best of regional produce.

⛱️ Looking for the best places to eat, stay, and explore in Nice?

In my Nice Travel Guide , you will find all the best addresses, unique day trips, restaurants, hotels, and hidden gems in Nice. Planning your trip to the South of France has never been easier ❤️

Weather in Nice in March

In March, Nice experiences a gradual shift from the cooler winter months to the milder temperatures of spring.

The city typically sees daytime temperatures averaging around 14°C (57°F), which can rise to a more comfortable range in the middle of the day. However, evenings in Nice during March can be cooler, with temperatures often dipping down to around 7°C (45°F). March also brings its share of rainfall, with an average of about 65 mm over approximately 10 days.

Despite this, the month is moderately sunny, boasting around 186 hours of sunlight, allowing for pleasant days perfect for exploring the city’s attractions. While the sea temperature remains cool at about 13°C (55°F), making swimming less inviting, the overall weather conditions make March a lovely time to experience the vibrant city life and natural beauty of Nice without the peak season crowds.

✈️ Coming to Nice soon? It’s time to book your tours

• From Nice: French Riviera in One Day
• Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour
• Nice: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay
• From Nice: Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Day Tour
• Nice: Provence Village Tour with Wine and Produce Tasting

→ Check out the most popular French Riviera tours here

Where to stay in Nice in March

For a stay in Nice in March, there are several excellent hotel options across different neighborhoods, each offering its own unique charm and amenities.

Hôtel La Pérouse

This luxurious sea-front hotel has been a favorite since 1936. With just 53 rooms and suites, it offers a tranquil experience. Guests can choose rooms facing the Mediterranean Sea or the garden, and enjoy amenities like a cocktail bar on a scenic terrace, a seasonal pool, a sauna, and a solarium​ ​.

Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel

A landmark in Nice, this hotel offers modern and elegant rooms with air conditioning, large TVs, and espresso machines. Located just a short walk from the Old Town and the Promenade des Anglais, it also features a spa, steam room, and a rooftop restaurant and bar​ ​.

Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

This iconic Art Deco hotel offers modern rooms with sea or city views, two swimming pools, a sauna, and a steam room. Its location is ideal, being only a short distance from Old Town and other attractions​ ​.

Boscolo Nice Hôtel & Spa

Situated in the city center, this dazzling five-star property offers sophisticated rooms, a spa, an indoor pool, and a rooftop area. The hotel’s Italian restaurant and bar are perfect for enjoying local cuisine and drinks​ ​.

Le Meridien Nice

Located at the Promenade des Anglais, this hotel offers modern refinements and is a short walk from the beach. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more contemporary setting​ ​.

✈️ Need help planning your trip to the French Riviera?

Make the most out of your trip with a personalized itinerary made just for you or book a travel consultation where I will answer any questions you might have.

Best things to do in Nice in March

Day trips to nearby cities.

Utilize Nice’s convenient location to explore nearby gems like Cannes, Antibes, and the principality of Monaco. Each destination offers its unique charm, from glamorous beaches to historic old towns.

You can read about the best day trips from Nice here.

Explore the Gorges du Verdon

Venture out to the Gorges du Verdon, known as Europe’s Grand Canyon. Its breathtaking vistas and turquoise waters are perfect for hiking, photography, and appreciating nature’s grandeur.

Join a Local Food Tour

Experience the flavors of Nice with a guided food tour. Discover local specialties, visit traditional markets, and learn about the culinary history of the region.

Perfume Making Workshop

Travel to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, and partake in a perfume-making workshop. Learn the art of fragrance creation and make your personalized scent.’

Relaxing Stroll in Vieux Nice

Wander through the Old Town’s vibrant alleys, explore the Cours Saleya market, and enjoy the historic ambiance.

Monaco Day Trip

A short train ride takes you to Monaco, where you can explore luxury boutiques, the Monte Carlo Casino, and the beautiful gardens.

Wine Tasting in Local Vineyards

March is a fantastic time for visiting local vineyards, offering wine tastings and tours to understand the regional viticulture.

Climb Castle Hill

For panoramic views of Nice and the bay, hike up Castle Hill, which is filled with lush greenery and stunning vistas.

Visit the Matisse Museum

Delve into the artistic world of Henri Matisse at this dedicated museum, less crowded in March for a more personal experience.

Promenade des Anglais

Enjoy leisurely walks along this famous promenade, soaking in the Mediterranean views and the relaxed atmosphere.

Conclusion: Nice in March

That’s a wrap! Now you know everything there is to know about coming to Nice in March. I hope you love it.

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, check out my travel guides , follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

👗 Find all my favorite addresses in Nice on this travel guide.

📕 Get a personalized French Riviera itinerary here or check out my other travel planning services

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

• 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024
• 24 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice in 2024
• 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]
• 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France
• 10 Best Wine Tours from Nice [2024]

Camila Neves

Nice to meet you! My name is Cami and I am a full-time traveler and foodie. I live in Nice in the South of France and this blog is where I share my impressions and travel secrets.

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