Holidays in March offer UK travellers an excellent opportunity to escape late winter, secure competitive pricing and enjoy improving weather conditions across Europe and selected long-haul destinations. Positioned just before the Easter peak in many years, March can deliver strong value for flexible travellers.
If you are considering a spring break, early sunshine or a cultural city escape, this guide outlines where to go, what to expect in terms of weather and how to book strategically.
Contents
Why March Is a Smart Month to Travel
March sits within the shoulder season for much of Europe, creating measurable advantages.
- Lower flight prices compared to peak summer
- Reduced hotel rates in Mediterranean destinations
- Fewer tourists at major attractions
- Improving temperatures in southern Europe
- Strong long-haul value before Easter demand increases
For UK travellers not tied to school schedules, March often provides one of the best price-to-weather balances in the first half of the year.
Best Short-Haul Destinations for Holidays in March
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are one of the most reliable March sunshine options from the UK. Temperatures typically range between 20°C and 25°C, making it suitable for poolside relaxation and coastal walks.
All-inclusive resorts offer competitive pricing before Easter school holidays.
Southern Spain
Regions such as the Costa del Sol begin warming up in March. While sea temperatures may still be cool, it is ideal for sightseeing and golf holidays.
Portugal
The Algarve offers mild spring weather and quieter beaches in March. Villa rentals and boutique hotels are more affordable compared to summer months.
Italy
Italy performs strongly for cultural travel in March. Cities such as Rome and Florence are far more manageable before peak tourism begins.
Best Long-Haul Holidays in March
March is also well suited to selected long-haul destinations.
Dubai
March offers warm beach weather without the extreme summer heat. It remains one of the strongest winter-sun extensions for UK travellers.
Caribbean
March falls within the dry season in most Caribbean destinations, delivering strong sunshine and stable conditions.
United States
Spring conditions make March suitable for city breaks in destinations such as New York or road trips in warmer states.
Average Cost of Holidays in March
March pricing is generally lower than peak summer, though Easter timing can affect costs.
- Short-haul return flights: £40 to £140
- 7-night European package holiday: £300 to £800 per person
- Luxury Mediterranean stay: £900+ per person
- Long-haul holiday (10 nights): £1,000 to £2,600 per person
Travelling in early to mid-March often delivers the strongest value.
Is March Warm Enough for a Beach Holiday?
March beach suitability depends on destination.
- Canary Islands: 20°C to 25°C
- Southern Spain: 17°C to 22°C
- Portugal: 16°C to 20°C
- Dubai: 24°C to 30°C
For guaranteed beach weather, long-haul destinations or the Canary Islands are more reliable than mainland Europe.
City Breaks in March
March is one of the best months for European city breaks. Cooler but comfortable temperatures make walking tours and cultural exploration enjoyable.
Paris
Lower crowd levels and improving spring weather enhance the experience.
Barcelona
Barcelona combines culture with coastal views, making it ideal for a short break.
Amsterdam
Late March begins the spring flower season, adding visual appeal to canal-side exploration.
How to Find the Best March Holiday Deals
- Book 2 to 4 months in advance for short-haul trips
- Monitor airline sales during January
- Avoid Easter week if possible
- Consider midweek departures for lower fares
- Compare package holidays with independent bookings
Flexibility of even a few days can reduce overall travel costs significantly.
Travel Considerations for March
Weather Variability
Northern Europe can still experience cold or wet conditions in March. Pack layers accordingly.
Easter Timing
Easter sometimes falls in late March, driving up prices for family-friendly destinations.
Passport and Insurance
Ensure passport validity meets European entry requirements and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Holidays in March vs April
March often offers slightly lower prices than April, especially before Easter. April may provide warmer conditions in parts of Europe, but March remains strong for value-focused travellers.
For UK travellers prioritising competitive pricing and manageable crowd levels, March is one of the most strategic months in the travel calendar.
Final Thoughts on Holidays in March
Holidays in March combine improving weather, competitive pricing and broad destination choice. Whether you are planning a Canary Islands escape, a European city break or a long-haul beach holiday, March offers flexibility and cost efficiency.
By booking early, avoiding peak Easter demand and selecting destinations aligned with seasonal weather patterns, UK travellers can secure high-quality holidays at attractive prices.
If you are looking to travel before summer demand intensifies, March deserves serious consideration.