With spring on the horizon in the Northern Hemisphere, March is a time to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather and longer days. In the Southern Hemisphere, the month kicks off autumn — and often brings with it more temperate weather.
Whether you are planning an eventful spring break getaway or taking advantage of a relaxed shoulder season, these destinations around the world are ideal for every kind of traveler to visit this March.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
The Outdoor Enthusiast
Phuket, Thailand
As March monsoons arrive in Thailand’s northeast region, southwest Phuket typically offers blue skies and cool breezes.
With one of the most colorful coral reefs in the world, Phuket is the ultimate destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. In fact, many travelers get their PADI diving certifications here and spend their days exploring underwater worlds before enjoying some mouthwatering Thai delicacies as the sun sets over the water.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Feel the warm sun on your face as you tee up for a round of golf on one of Gulf Shores’ courses. Spend your days hiking through a wildlife-filled Gulf State Park or exploring the white sandy dunes along the shore before the high season, when prices skyrocket and the beaches get busy.
March is also a great time for deep-sea fishing and birding, so get your binoculars ready.
The Food and Drink Lover
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago has four iconic eats for you to enjoy year-round: the Italian beef sandwich, deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and popcorn. In March, check out the Brewsology Beer Fest at the Museum of Science and Industry — and, of course, the many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Grab a green beer while you watch the St. Patrick’s Day parade along a green Chicago River, and pop into one of Chicago’s Irish pubs for an Irish whiskey and a scrumptious classic fish fry.
Zurich, Switzerland
Always expect a deliciously cheesy adventure in Switzerland, the official home of fondue. March is the shoulder season for Zurich, which means you’re likely to encounter fewer tourists.
Though, if you’re willing to brave some crowds, March brings the Zurich Bier Festival, two fun-filled days celebrating the best of international craft beers. Don’t forget to save some room for smooth mulled wine, a lively Aperol spritz and perfectly balanced charcuterie boards, all staples of après-ski menus.
The Sports Fan
Banff, Canada
During March, the winter cold snap starts to wane, and Banff can still see some major snowfall.
Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding or extreme sports like heli-skiing, Banff’s beautiful slopes and stunning, mountainous backdrops will have every winter sports lover joyfully busy from morning till night.
Accra, Ghana
One reason to mark your calendar with a visit to Accra: Ghana’s Independence Day falls on March 6 each year, and the national holiday is typically celebrated with military parades and festivities in the country’s capital and beyond.
The capital city is always a hot spot for sports fans, hosting many soccer tournaments, rugby union games and cricket matches. Accra has even stepped up to host the African Games — formerly called the All-Africa Games or the Pan Africa Games — during which African countries compete for gold in many sports including basketball, field hockey and tennis.
The Wellness Buff
St. Kitts
The small Caribbean Island of St. Kitts has long held a place in the farm-to-table movement in the region. And an abundance of fresh produce and seafood is a nice perk for wellness buffs looking for the tastiest ingredients.
Whether you choose sunrise yoga on the beach, hiking through the luscious green rainforest or relaxing on a calm, breezy hillside, March on this island is guaranteed to leave you refreshed before the sweltering temperatures of summer arrive.
Fiji
With stunning views and endless activities to choose from, Fiji is the ultimate destination for reconnecting with your body, mind and spirit — especially in March when the rainy season is almost over and there are fewer tourists around. If award-winning beaches stretching into sparkling blue waters aren’t enough to soothe your soul, indulge in some of the world’s most luxurious resorts and their exclusive spa treatments.
And if you’re planning to bring your kids along with you, you’ll be pleased to know that Fiji is a family-friendly destination.
The Arts & Culture Seeker
San Diego, California
Whether you’re into aerospace or comic culture, one of the 18 museums in San Diego’s Balboa Park will have something for you. This city is also home to two Tony award–winning theaters; Old Town Historic Park, filled with markets and heritage homes; and unique outdoor art collections at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station.
From folk art to fashion, music to science, March’s tourist low season means that there is something at a reasonable price for every culture lover in San Diego. You can expect warm sunny spring days and cool nights — arguably the best kind of weather for bopping around the city.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
In 2010, Buenos Aires was named UNESCO’s first Creative City of Design, a testament to its global artistic influence. The famed theater, Teatro Colon, is truly a sight to behold, even without a famous ballet or opera gracing its stage.
March is autumn in Argentina, so enjoy mild temperatures and sunny skies while you explore this culturally rich destination. Between breathtaking art galleries and captivating tango performances, take in the vivacious street art and unique French and Spanish inspired architecture.
Best Places to Travel by Month — See All 12
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