Where is hot in March? 7 destinations for sunny trips in spring

March is the month for getting ahead of the crowds. 

Savvy travellers use this time  to find sunny European getaways at reasonable prices, making the most of cooler temperatures to plan more ambitious sightseeing itineraries. 

Below, we’ve shared seven sun-soaked destinations to consider this spring, from coastal escapes in Italy to bargain return flights from the UK to Spain and a dry visit to Porto, Lisbon’s more affordable cousin. 

You can also find decent prices for long-haul adventures — if you’re prepared to fly a little further, relax in the Maldives’ serene lagoons, discover the Mayan ruins of Mexico, or spend your trip browsing Egyptian souks before the sticky heat of summer hits.

Where’s sunny and cheap in March?

Almeria, Spain

Average maximum temperature: 17°C

Among the cheapest warm European spots we found to visit this March is the southeastern Spanish city of Almeria, with return flights from several airports across the UK for as little as £18-40.

The Andalusian capital offers more than 124 miles of wild beaches, and is famous for its desert landscapes, which have been spotted in Indiana Jones films, and backdropped several major television programmes, including  Dr Who and Game of Thrones.

Beyond photo opportunities, you’ll also get to explore the city’s rich history, like the ancient Alcazaba fortress, a city cathedral dating back to 1524, Arabic water wells and preserved shelters from the Spanish civil war.

And with temperatures lingering in the mid-to-high teens, the weather should be mild enough for hikes and walks — don’t miss the Cabo de Gata Natural Park.

Porto, Portugal

Average maximum temperature: 16°C

As Lisbon’s popularity among tourists hits feverish levels, Porto offers something a little more unhurried — especially for those visiting in March. 

It’s not quite summer holiday weather, but as magnolias begin to bloom and the sun reflects off colourful azulejos, March gives visitors the chance to explore this small hilly city on foot, with long lunches, wine tasting and strolls by the Douro river.

Visit in early March, and you’ll also catch the tail-end of the Porto International Film Festival, this year taking place from February 27th-8 March. Or, take your time browsing the destination’s famous street markets, including the Porto Belo Market (every Saturday at Carlos Alberto Square), the Mercado da Alegria (Sundays at Jardim do Passeio Alegre), and the slightly more touristic Ribeira market, where you’ll find plenty of ceramics, prints, jewellery and delicacies to bring back home.

Which? members voted Porto as their favourite Portuguese destination in our latest survey, giving it a full five stars for its food and drink offerings, tourist attractions, attractiveness and safety, with an 86% approval score.

You can find flights for as little as £41 from London, £44 from Birmingham and £49 from Manchester.

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Catania, Italy 

Average maximum temperature: 18°C

For a cheap and cheerful Italian getaway, look no further than the stunning baroque streets of Catania at the foot of the dramatic Mount Etna. We spotted plenty of return flights for as low as £35 from London, and although Etna herself may still be snow-topped in March, Catania’s southerly location means you should enjoy highs of 18°C. 

Mild temperatures and sunshine are ideal for longer days on foot, letting you see more than you’d manage in the height of summer. So, even if you’re only visiting for a long weekend trip, you’ll likely squeeze in a visit to the stunning Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata and the Cathedral of Saint Agata, plus the gardens, monasteries and flea markets the city has to offer. If you’ve got a strong stomach, visit La Pescheria, a famous fish market just off Piazza del Duomo.

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.

Find a short-haul package holiday with a highly rated Which? recommended provider such as Trailfinders, Destination 2, Kuoni or Jet2 Holidays

Long-haul holiday destinations for hot weather in March

Maldives

Average maximum temperature: 31°C

With clear water for snorkelling, cyan skies and hot, sunny days broken up with refreshing rain showers, March is among the best months to visit the Maldives. 

Temperatures don’t peak until April, but by March, the post-Christmas crowds have departed, leaving you with quieter resorts, calmer lagoons and a better chance at spotting marine life in peace.

Make sure to check recent flight sales before booking — we found decent discounts for returns for travel dates in March 2026 from London to Malé when we looked into Virgin and BA’s January sales.

Egypt

Average maximum temperature: 29°C

Head to Egypt in March for guaranteed sunshine and temperatures that 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.

Find an Egypt holiday with a Which? recommended provider: Hays, Saga, Trailfinders

Mexico

Average maximum temperature: 26°C

Between February and April is the 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 and 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, has 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.

Find a long-haul package holiday with Which? recommended provider like Trailfinders, Destination 2 or Kuoni

Where’s hot in Europe in March?

• Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, Spain: 21°C 
• Ayia Napa, Cyprus: 19°C
• Albufeira, Coimbra and Lisbon, Portugal: 18°C
• Antalya Coast, Turkey: 18°C
• Formentera, Spain: 17°C
• Rhodes, Greece: 17°C
• Calabria, Rome and Sardina, Italy: 16°C
• Malta: 16°C 

When is the next bank holiday in 2026?

The next bank holidays in the calendar are Good Friday (3 April) and Easter Monday (6 April), followed by the spring bank holiday in May. Read our guide to UK bank holidays in 2026, and how to make the most of your annual leave.