Eastern Europe in March: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for March
Average temperature across Eastern Europe in March.
Country Weather in March
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russia | 2° | -4° | 42 mm | low | Freezing |
| Ukraine | 5° | -2° | 35 mm | low | Cold |
| Belarus | 3° | -4° | 43 mm | low | Freezing |
| Moldova | 8° | 0° | 32 mm | low | Cold |
| Lithuania | 4° | -3° | 41 mm | low | Cold |
| Latvia | 4° | -4° | 37 mm | low | Freezing |
| Estonia | 2° | -4° | 38 mm | low | Freezing |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
The Baltics (Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania)
A clear thaw sometimes appears in early spring with daytime temperatures edging above freezing; gulls become more active on the harbors of Tallinn and Riga and melting snow makes countryside muddy. Cherry and early apple blossoms may start in Lithuania by late March, while coastal fogs remain common. Layers, a light waterproof and shoes that can handle slush will make walking tours manageable.
Poland & the Northern Plain (Poland & Belarus)
Temperatures gradually climb and early spring can be changeable: March often brings rainy interludes and sudden frosts, with daytime highs moving through single digits into the low teens. Cherry blossom and early bulbs appear in municipal parks in Warsaw and Kraków, but countryside paths are often muddy. Pack a warm midlayer and a reliable rain jacket for museum days or city walks.
The Carpathians & Transylvania (southern Poland, Slovakia, western Ukraine & Romania)
Snowmelt begins in lower elevations during early spring, making trails muddy and rivers swollen; higher ridges retain snow well into April and even May on northerly aspects. Wildflowers start to appear in sheltered meadows in Romania’s Apuseni and Transylvanian foothills toward late spring. Pack waterproof trekking boots, gaiters, and be prepared for a mix of snow, slush and muddy tracks on mountain routes.
Ukraine & Moldova Lowlands (central & eastern Ukraine, Moldova)
Early spring is a season of rapid change: daytime temperatures rise through single digits into the low teens and agricultural plains start to turn green; however, strong winds and sudden storms still occur. Chişinău warms earlier than northern Ukraine and vineyards show early growth, making it a good shoulder-season visit. Bring a windproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and expect occasional rain.
Black Sea Coast & the Danube Plain (Romania, Bulgaria & southern Ukraine)
Early spring brings brighter days and faster warming - March and April often mean 10-18°C on sunny days and the first beachgoers appear along sheltered coves. Migratory birds are active in Danube Delta reserve and birdwatching season ramps up. Pack a light jacket for evenings and a field guide if you plan delta excursions; services in smaller resorts begin to reopen.
European Russia West of the Urals (St. Petersburg, Moscow & surrounding regions)
By early spring daylight increases markedly and you can see early thaw and melting snow in many towns, though secondary roads may be muddy and travel slower than in summer. Mosques and park buds open up and St. Petersburg slowly brightens toward its famous white nights. A warm, water-resistant coat and flexible footwear help with mixed conditions and quick transitions between indoors and out.