Southern Europe in March: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for March
Average temperature across Southern Europe in March.
Country Weather in March
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Italy | 16° | 6° | 59 mm | moderate | Cool |
| Spain | 16° | 5° | 25 mm | moderate | Cool |
| Greece | 16° | 8° | 54 mm | moderate | Cool |
| Portugal | 18° | 10° | 49 mm | moderate | Cool |
| Cyprus | 18° | 7° | 45 mm | high | Cool |
| Malta | high | ||||
| Andorra | 9° | 0° | 58 mm | moderate | Cold |
| San Marino | 13° | 4° | 65 mm | moderate | Cold |
| Vatican City | 15° | 6° | 56 mm | moderate | Cool |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
Iberian Peninsula (Spain & Portugal)
Early spring often feels changeable across the peninsula: warm, sunny afternoons can be interrupted by sudden downpours, especially in the northwest and along the Atlantic. Southern cities like Seville and Málaga begin to heat up - by late March you can have 20-25°C days - while the north will still be cool; expect pollen if you have allergies. It’s a lovely time for walking in Córdoba’s patios or catching early-blooming almond trees in Extremadura; bring a light waterproof and a few warm layers for evenings.
Southern France & the Riviera (Provence, Côte d’Azur, Languedoc)
By early spring warm spells can arrive suddenly, with wisteria and almond trees blooming across Provence and the Luberon fairly early; daytime temperatures around Avignon and Arles can be pleasantly cool to mild. Rain is still possible, and the mistral remains an occasional nuisance for coastal diners and cyclists. This is an excellent shoulder season for visiting historic towns and vineyards before the summer crowds arrive.
Italian Peninsula, Sicily & Sardinia (Italy)
Spring brings cherry and citrus blossoms across the peninsula and island olive groves; by March-April Rome and Florence warm into the high teens while coastal Sardinia and Sicily enjoy comfortable 18-22°C days. Rainfall diminishes compared with winter, though afternoon showers are possible in the north. This is a superb time for walking historic city centers with fewer tourists, and for visiting Tuscany’s countryside before the heat of summer.
Adriatic & Balkan Coast (Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Slovenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina)
Early spring wakes up olive groves and vineyards: by March and April Split and the Dalmatian coast enjoy increasingly sunny days, while the interior foothills remain cool. Tourist towns begin reopening and the shoulder-season calm makes island-hopping pleasant with lower prices and manageable ferry timetables. Bring layers - daytime warmth can be deceptive beside the cool sea breeze - and be ready for occasional rain showers.
Greece & the Aegean (Greece mainland, Cyclades, Dodecanese, Crete)
Spring brings aromatic wildflowers and warming days: by April Crete and the southern islands can be pleasantly warm for early beach visits, while Athens and Thessaloniki see lengthening sunny periods. The Meltemi is less persistent than in summer, and archaeological sites are comfortable to visit without extreme heat. Pack light layers and a windproof, and enjoy quieter island harbors and open tavernas before full tourist season arrival.
Malta & Cyprus (Eastern Mediterranean islands)
By early spring the islands start to warm and lengthen daylight: temperatures climb into the high teens and low 20s°C, making outdoor archaeology in Valletta or ancient Kourion comfortable. Rainfall drops compared with winter, though short showers are still possible. Travellers will find fewer crowds and good conditions for hiking and cultural sightseeing; bring layers and a light jacket for sea breezes.