Spring begins to arrive with warmer days on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, though northern and eastern areas remain cool. Rainfall is still appreciable in the northwest and along the Black Sea. Crowds are low and travel logistics are straightforward in major cities.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Turkey in March.
Istanbul, Bursa, Edirne
March usually feels like a slow thaw along the Marmara coast: rain remains frequent but days lengthen and parks around Dolmabahçe and Emirgan begin to show early bulbs. Crowds are modest and Tulip Festival preparations take place in Istanbul’s public squares - spring is a pleasant time for museum visits and off-season prices, though showers require a flexible schedule and a light umbrella.
Izmir, Ephesus, Bodrum, Çeşme, Kuşadası
March often feels like a wake-up: almond and early citrus blossoms appear around Aegean orchards and daylight increases, making Ephesus a beautiful time to visit before heat sets in. Temperatures are comfortable for long coastal walks, though afternoon showers are still possible; pack layers and a small umbrella for unexpected showers while enjoying calmer ferry schedules.
Antalya, Kaş, Alanya, Fethiye, Side
March typically signals the return of warmth - citrus groves around Antalya start to smell sweet and wildflowers appear on coastal slopes. Tourist infrastructure begins to open and boat tours start operating more regularly; early spring is a pleasant shoulder-season time for sightseeing without intense heat, but sudden showers can still interrupt plans.
Ankara, Konya, Cappadocia, Nevşehir
March sees a noticeable thaw on the Konya Plain and in Ankara, but nights remain cold and snow patches linger in Cappadocia’s valleys. Early spring winds can be strong and dusty, making balloon operators cautious; daytime temperatures allow comfortable walking if you wear layers and early bookings are useful for hot-air balloon rides as weather windows open up.
Trabzon, Rize, Amasra, Sinop
March brings a slow but unmistakable greening as spring arrives: tea and hazelnut orchards begin to look lively and waterfalls swell with meltwater. Coastal towns are quieter and dramatic cliffs like those near Amasra are atmospheric under drizzly skies; waterproof layers and an umbrella will let you enjoy the landscape without getting soaked.
Erzurum, Kars, Doğubeyazıt, Mount Ararat approaches
March can feel late to warm up, with snow lingering in valleys and sudden winter storms still possible - spring arrives slowly at these elevations. By late month some lower-lying areas near Kars may start to show thawing streams, but travelers should still expect icy conditions and book accommodations with reliable heating if touring archaeological sites like Ani.
Diyarbakır, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Mardin
March brings a clear shift toward spring: almond and early fruit tree blossoms animate rural villages around Şanlıurfa and Mardin, and daytime temperatures climb pleasantly. This is an excellent time for archaeological tours and countryside drives before the intense heat arrives; pack layers for chilly mornings and lighter clothes for sunny afternoons.
Newroz (March 21) is celebrated in parts of southeastern Turkey as the traditional spring/new year festival.
See how March compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.