Top Destinations to Explore in March 2024

As March arrives, spring begins to awaken in the northern hemisphere, melting away the winter chill from many popular spots, all while avoiding the influx of tourists. Conversely, the southern hemisphere sees temperatures dropping, enticing adventurers and budget travelers for off-peak experiences.

Regardless of your travel desires, March is an excellent month to explore new destinations. Discover some of the finest places to visit this month.

Ideal March Getaways for Ultimate Relaxation

Gran Canaria, Spain

Why now? Refresh your mind and body with a relaxing tai chi getaway.

Gran Canaria offers an idyllic setting for a wellness retreat, surrounded by stunning sand dunes and pleasantly warm weather, with March temperatures consistently above 20°C (68°F) and more than seven hours of sunshine each day. This central gem of the Canary Islands is a hub for yoga, meditation, tai chi, and qigong retreats, particularly near Las Palmas, the island’s vibrant capital. Choose your retreat based on your preferences – after your morning tai chi practice, enjoy relaxation or get active. With numerous beaches to unwind on, don't miss the chance to explore the island’s scenic hiking paths as well.

Morocco

Why now? Catch reliable waves in this surf and yoga paradise.

Along the coast of Morocco, a series of surf camps stretch from Agadir to Essaouira, particularly around Taghazout and the tranquil fishing village of Tamraght. The surf conditions are consistently excellent from October to March, offering big, long, and reliable waves as the weather begins to warm. Most camps follow a familiar routine: start your day with sunrise yoga to get limber, then grab a surfboard and chase the best waves, with time to wander through the art galleries and souks of Essaouira’s historic medina.

Learn more about the optimal times to visit Morocco

The top destinations for adventure travel in March

Costa Rica

Why now? Experience stunning coasts, cloud forests, volcanoes, and exhilarating white-water rivers.

This small country boasts an impressive variety of landscapes and wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. Visit Costa Rica in March to enjoy the drier season along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as in the highlands (though occasional showers are still possible). It’s also after the busy US holiday rush, leading to fewer crowds. The biggest challenge will be choosing how to spend your time during your visit.

Discover more ideal times to explore Costa Rica

North Wales

Why now? Engage in outdoor activities amid blooming daffodils and playful lambs.

In springtime, Wales comes alive as lambs frolic across hills adorned with vibrant butter-yellow daffodils. Although sunshine isn't guaranteed, March offers a splendid opportunity to shake off winter and discover some of the UK’s hidden countryside gems. The Dee Valley is perfect for year-round adventures, with the River Dee providing thrilling white-water activities such as rafting, kayaking, body-boating, and stand-up paddleboarding.

The best places to travel to in March for culinary delights

New Brunswick, Canada

Why now? Indulge your sweet cravings against a snowy backdrop.

March marks maple syrup month in New Brunswick, a serene and less-traveled province filled with natural splendor and rich history. During this 'fifth season,' temperatures begin to rise above freezing, allowing sap to flow in maple trees. Sugar camps (or shacks) invite hungry guests to savor sugarbush events featuring hearty breakfasts of eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, and pancakes generously drizzled with that delicious syrup. With snow still on the ground, enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or winter hiking in stunning locales like Fundy National Park.

Istanbul, Turkey

Why now? Uncover bazaars, ancient marvels, and culinary delights in tranquility.

Istanbul never fails to impress, and in March, as the weather begins to warm up, you can enjoy great deals, fewer tourists, and more pleasant conditions. Make sure to allocate time to savor the greatest gift the Ottomans bestowed upon the world: food. It's no wonder the Spice Bazaar is bustling with activity! From simple kebabs to lavish meze spreads and the exquisite aubergine dish, imam bayıldı, few cuisines can match the indulgence of Turkey. In recent years, a variety of fantastic food-focused walking tours and cooking classes have emerged in Istanbul, offering a chance to pair a spring getaway with a culinary adventure.

Discover Istanbul's top locations with our neighborhood guide

The best places to travel to in March for culture

Tiwi Islands, Australia

Why now? Immerse yourself in the thrill of the annual Football Grand Final and Art Sale.

If you think the rest of Australia is passionate about football, wait until you witness the incredible enthusiasm of the Indigenous communities in this two-island archipelago, located 80km (50 miles) north of Darwin. Over a third of the island's population of just under 3000 actively participates in Aussie rules, many competing at high levels. As March progresses and the rains begin to subside, the annual Tiwi Islands Football Grand Final and Art Sale attracts fans of both sport and art, who travel from mainland Northern Territory to enjoy the game and acquire unique artworks from the “Islands of Smiles.”

Naples

Why now? Enjoy tranquil sites and an edgy city in early spring.

Naples embraces its character. This vibrant southern Italian city may appear a bit rough around the edges, but it boasts an unyielding spirit, a stunning location (along the Bay of Naples, beneath Mt Vesuvius), and, of course, the finest pizzas in Italy. March's off-peak season offers mild weather—neither too hot nor too cold—and the city is not yet overrun with tourists. This means you can explore must-see attractions like the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, filled with Pompeiian treasures, and visit Pompeii itself, a mere 45-minute train ride away, without the crowds.

The best places to visit in March for wildlife and nature

Kyūshū, Japan

Why now? Experience the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms in early sakura season.

A single cherry tree in bloom is lovely, but imagine 2000 trees bursting into bloom against the crisp spring sky—that's a stunning sight. Japan’s southern island of Kyūshū showcases its blossoms earlier than the more famous locations on Honshū. Its Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura trees begin to flower in mid-March across parks in Fukuoka, around the magnificent castle in Kumamoto, and in Yoshino Park in Kagoshima, beautifully framed by the imposing Mt Sakurajima.

Tobago

Why now? Observe vibrant bird species and watch nesting sea turtles.

This lush island off the South American coast embodies all the charm of a Caribbean paradise: swaying palm trees, a laid-back lifestyle, and abundant sunshine. But Tobago also offers delightful surprises. Instead of throngs of cruise passengers, this gem attracts nature enthusiasts, snorkelers, and divers. March delivers perfect beach weather, along with the arrival of nesting sea turtles—green, leatherback, and hawksbill—that return to their birthplace to lay eggs. Observe these majestic creatures as they laboriously make their way ashore, or get involved in conservation efforts to protect these endangered species.

Assam

Why now? Track tigers and rhinos during the prime wildlife-watching season.

March offers a great opportunity to encounter a one-horned rhino in India’s Kaziranga National Park. With the keen eyes and expertise of a skilled guide, you may also catch glimpses of tigers (Kaziranga boasts one of the highest densities), leopards, gaurs, elephants, and sloth bears.

Planning for the future? Discover the top places to visit each month of the year.