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Where's hot for a holiday in March?
March may officially mark the start of spring in the UK, but it’s not warm enough to ditch the jumper just yet. If you’re seeking hotter climes elsewhere, here are six sun-soaked destinations to consider.
For a dose of Spanish culture with pleasant highs of 20°C, head for Seville. Most famous for being the birthplace of flamenco, it’s also home to some spectacular architecture.
For a slower-paced, coastal escape, look to the Turkish Riviera or Crete - where the mercury hovers around the mid-teens. If you’re prepared to use up a few more air miles, you can crank up the heat in Florida or Mexico.
Find a package holiday with a highly rated Which? recommended provider: Jet2, Kuoni, Hays, Saga and Trailfinders.
Seville, Spain
Average maximum temperature: 20°C
Spain's Andalusian capital boasts highs of 20°C and impressive architecture to be enjoyed without the crowds in March.
Tick off all of the main attractions on a walking or cycling tour, or take a sunset cruise along the Guadalquivir river. You'll find some of Seville's architectural highlights in the old Jewish district of Santa Cruz - look out for the Catedral de Sevilla and Plaza de España in particular. But the absolute must-see is the Alcázar de Sevilla. This grand palace was 500 years in the making and as a result, its design is a real melting pot of religious and cultural influences.
Round off a day’s sightseeing with a flamenco show and a tapas feast. Spinach and chickpeas spiced with cumin is a local favourite.
Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals in Seville.
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Find a Seville holiday with a highly rated Which? recommended provider: Jet2, Kuoni, Trailfinders
Alanya, Turkey
Average maximum temperature: 16°C
While it may be a bit chilly for sunbathing in March (highs of 16°C), the gently heated turquoise coastline of Alanya is pleasant for coastal walks and sightseeing. Legend has it, Queen Cleopatra herself liked to holiday here.
Take a guided tour of the Damlatas and Dim caves, discover Alanya Castle's past, or survey the city from the 13th century Kizikule Tower crowning the cliff. All of this can be done without the crowds of peak season.
And if you’re watching the pennies, our research has found that Turkey is one of the best value holiday destinations for the pound in 2023.
February 2023 earthquake in Turkey - At the time of publication, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to 10 Turkish provinces which were struck by a series of earthquakes along the Syrian border in February 2023. There are no warnings against travel to Alanya or other resorts on the Turkish Riviera. Read the full FCDO guidance before you book.
Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals in Alanya.
Find a holiday in Alanya with a highly rated Which? recommended provider: Jet2, Hays, Trailfinders.
Crete, Greece
Average maximum temperature: 16°C
Crete's unique combination of historic monuments, natural beauty spots and spacious beaches can be enjoyed in March at comfortable temperatures - and without the crowds of high season.
You can expect six hours of glorious sunshine per day, with only eight days of rain typical for the month. Elounda, Chania and Rethymnon are the warmest areas on the island, while Sissi is slightly cooler at 14°C.
Crete's capital, Heraklion, is packed with historical architecture, but don't overlook the bustling harbour town of Chania, which has Venetian, Egyptian and Ottoman influences and dates back to as early as the 14th century. Nearby gems include the Elafonisi nature reserve with its naturally pink beaches and the serene Lake Kournas.
Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals in Crete.
Find a Crete holiday with a highly rated Which? recommended provider: Jet2, Kuoni, Trailfinders
Long-haul holiday destinations for hot weather in March
Egypt
Average maximum temperature: 29°C
Head to Egypt in March for guaranteed sunshine and temperatures which aren't as sticky as the summer highs of 40°C.
Cairo, home to the great Pyramids of Giza, is a must-visit for any first timer to the country.
Meanwhile, the coastal city of Hurghada offers plenty of soft sand to flop on and scuba diving for those feeling adventurous. Hurghada’s Sekella district is where you'll find most of the diving schools.
Save some time to visit the old town where you can spend an afternoon bobbing in and out of traditional Egyptian coffee shops and souks.
Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals in Egypt.
Find an Egypt holiday with a Which? recommended provider: Hays, Saga, Trailfinders
Florida, USA
Average maximum temperature: 25°C
Firmly outside of hurricane season (between June and November), March is a decent time to visit Florida when you can expect highs of 25°C and very little rain.
The state is home to sandy beaches, untamed everglades, and the glamorous cities of Fort Lauderdale and Miami - offering plenty of variety.
You could take a road trip along the Florida Keys, a tropical archipelago off the coast where you can enjoy fishing, boating and scuba diving. Or, head to Fort Lauderdale to see how the other half lives on a boat tour of its mansion-studded canals.
Also worth a visit is Everglades National Park, with a unique ecosystem and the chance to spot numerous endangered species, including the manatee, American crocodile and Florida panther.
Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals in Florida.
Find a Florida holiday with a Which? recommended provider: Kuoni, Hays, Trailfinders
Mexico
Average maximum temperature: 26°C
Between February and April is prime time to visit Mexico. Visit in March and you’ll hit the sweet spot of good weather while beating the Easter holiday crowds.
Temperatures are between 24-31°C, depending on where you go, and rainfall is at a minimum. Home to ancient Mayan ruins, white beaches and one of the best-known railway routes in Latin America, your itinerary will be determined by the area you visit.
For surfing, snorkelling, or just whiling away the days on the warm sand, aim for the Pacific coastline. Mexico's second city, Guadalajara, boasts lots of tasty local dishes, while the beach town of Tulum is the place to head for bohemian beach bars and Mayan ruins.
For something a little different, the Copper Canyon Railway from Los Mochis to Chihuahua will give you a glimpse into Mexico's astounding back garden as you twist and turn through dramatic mountain gorges and quaint rural villages.
Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals in Mexico.
Find a Mexico holiday with a Which? recommended provider: Kuoni, Hays, Trailfinders
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