March in Europe marks the transition from winter to spring, bringing milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and a mix of snow, rain, and sunshine across the continent. Weather in Europe in March varies greatly depending on the region. Northern and Eastern Europe still experience cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, while Western and Central Europe begin to warm up with rainy days and blooming landscapes. Southern Europe, including Spain, Italy, and Greece, enjoys mild weather with more sunshine, making it an excellent time for outdoor exploration. March is a great time to visit Europe because crowds are still smaller than in peak season, flights and hotels are cheaper, and winter sports are still available in some areas.
Weather in Europe in March: Region-wise
1. Northern Europe: Cold but Slowly Warming Up
Countries Covered: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania.
March in Northern Europe is still cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. In Oslo (Norway), Stockholm (Sweden), and Helsinki (Finland), temperatures range between -3°C and 5°C, while Iceland remains colder, with averages around -2°C to 4°C. In the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), temperatures rise slightly to 0°C to 7°C.
Snow: Snow is still common in inland and Arctic areas like Lapland (Finland and Sweden), Tromsø (Norway), and Reykjavik (Iceland), while coastal cities like Copenhagen (Denmark) and Tallinn (Estonia) start to see rain instead of snow.
Wind: Wind speeds are moderate but can be strong along coastal regions, especially in Reykjavik and the Norwegian fjords.
Daylight: Daylight hours increase, with 10 to 12 hours of sunlight, making it easier to explore.
Major cities remain active, but some remote areas in Lapland and Iceland still have limited access due to snow-covered roads. Tourist attractions and winter resorts stay open, but seasonal ice hotels and Arctic experiences start closing by the end of March. While temperatures rise slightly, it still feels cold, especially in the evenings.
2. Western Europe: Rainy but Warming Up
Countries Covered: UK, Ireland, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg.
The weather in Western Europe in March begins to transition into spring, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Cities like London (UK), Paris (France), and Amsterdam (Netherlands) experience frequent rain showers but also longer sunny periods. In Berlin (Germany) and Brussels (Belgium), temperatures remain cool but mild, around 6°C to 12°C.
Snow: Snowfall is rare in low-altitude areas but still possible in higher elevations, like the Black Forest (Germany) and parts of the French Alps.
Rain: Rain is frequent but lighter than in winter, and wind conditions remain moderate, except in coastal cities like Dublin (Ireland) and Normandy (France).
Daylight: Daylight increases to 11-12 hours, making it easier for sightseeing.
Cities remain vibrant as locals enjoy the first signs of spring. Parks and gardens, such as Hyde Park (London), Jardin du Luxembourg (Paris), and Keukenhof Gardens (Netherlands), start to bloom. Major museums and attractions are fully open, and café culture becomes more enjoyable with milder weather. However, frequent rain showers and occasional chilly mornings require layers and waterproof clothing. Some outdoor attractions may be muddy or wet, making hiking less enjoyable.
3. Central Europe: Melting Snow and Spring Blooms
Countries Covered: Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia.
March in Central Europe is a mix of winter and spring, with temperatures between 0°C and 12°C in cities like Vienna (Austria), Prague (Czech Republic), and Krakow (Poland). Higher-altitude regions, such as Zermatt (Switzerland) and the Tatra Mountains (Slovakia & Poland), still experience freezing temperatures and snowfall.
Snow/Rain: Snow is still common in the Alps and Carpathians, but lower-altitude cities see more rain than snow.
Wind: Wind speeds are moderate, but higher elevations in Switzerland and Austria can be gusty.
Daylight : Daylight lasts 11 to 12 hours, offering plenty of time for outdoor activities.
Major cities remain busy, and ski resorts are still active in Switzerland and Austria, but some winter resorts start closing by late March. Spring festivals, such as Easter markets in Vienna and Prague, bring a festive atmosphere. It is great time for skiing in the Alps and exploring historic cities with fewer crowds. However, Weather can be unpredictable, with sunshine, rain, and snow all in one day. Skiing conditions start to decline by late March, and hiking trails may still be muddy.
4. Southern Europe: The First Signs of Spring
Countries Covered: Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Malta, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro.
March in Southern Europe is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Lisbon (Portugal), Rome (Italy), and Athens (Greece) enjoy pleasant weather, while Barcelona (Spain) and Dubrovnik (Croatia) remain cool in the evenings. Rain is occasional, especially in Venice and Athens, but sunny days are more frequent. Daylight extends to 11-12 hours.
Cities like Rome, Madrid, and Athens are bustling with outdoor cafés reopening. Some Greek islands and coastal towns remain quiet, but Venice and Tenerife celebrate Carnival with parades and festivals. Cherry blossoms bloom in Spain, adding natural beauty to city parks. However, some beach resorts and island hotels may still be closed. Swimming in the sea is not ideal, as water temperatures remain cold.
5. Eastern Europe: Snowy Cities and Emerging Spring
Countries Covered: Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Belarus, Moldova.
March in Eastern Europe is still cold, but temperatures slowly begin to rise. In Moscow (Russia) and Kyiv (Ukraine), temperatures range from -8°C to 3°C, while Bucharest (Romania), Sofia (Bulgaria), and Belgrade (Serbia) are slightly warmer, averaging between 2°C and 12°C.
Snow/Rain: Snowfall is common in the first half of March, but by the end of the month, it transitions to rain in lower-altitude cities like Chișinău (Moldova) and Minsk (Belarus).
Wind: Wind conditions remain moderate, though open landscapes in Russia and Ukraine can experience strong, cold winds.
Daylight: Daylight lasts between 10 to 11 hours, allowing more time for sightseeing.
Ski resorts in Romania and Bulgaria stay open, but some winter resorts start closing in late March. Easter markets and spring festivals start appearing, adding a lively atmosphere. Unpredictable weather means some days still feel like winter, while others bring spring showers. Some remote roads and mountain trails may still be closed due to snow.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in March
- For Northern Lights & Winter Adventures: Tromsø (Norway), Abisko (Sweden), Rovaniemi (Finland), Reykjavik (Iceland) – One of the last chances to see the Northern Lights, with snow activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling still available.
- For Skiing & Snowboarding: Zermatt (Switzerland), Innsbruck (Austria), Chamonix (France), Bansko (Bulgaria) – Excellent late-season skiing with fewer crowds compared to peak winter months.
- For Cherry Blossoms & Spring Blooms: Madrid (Spain), Paris (France), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Budapest (Hungary) – Parks and gardens begin blooming with cherry blossoms and tulips, offering beautiful scenery.
- For Rainy Day Cultural Exploration: London (UK), Berlin (Germany), Vienna (Austria), Brussels (Belgium) – A great time to explore museums, historic palaces, and indoor attractions with fewer tourists.
- For Coastal & Mediterranean Sunshine: Lisbon (Portugal), Seville (Spain), Athens (Greece), Malta – Warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing, historic exploration, and enjoying outdoor cafés.
- For Spring Festivals & Carnival Celebrations: Venice (Italy), Nice (France), Tenerife (Spain), Cologne (Germany) – Experience colorful Carnival parades, masked balls, and street festivals.
- For Budget-Friendly Travel: Krakow (Poland), Bucharest (Romania), Sofia (Bulgaria), Riga (Latvia) – Lower travel costs with historic old towns, medieval castles, and unique cultural experiences.
