Greece In March Guide: Weather, Things To Do & More 2024
Are you visiting Greece in March and wondering how to plan your trip? We’ve got you covered with this complete guide!
Mike and I have visited Greece many times. We’ve been to multiple islands and spent a month living on the island of Milos.
After spending so much time exploring this beautiful country, we’ve discovered our favorite spots, uncovered amazing things to do, and found places full of history and culture that we now want to share with you.
Greece in March is an awesome place to be. At this time of year, the winter is fading away, but it’s not high season yet, so the prices are reasonable.
This guide will show you an insider’s perspective on the weather, activities, and everything else you need to plan an unforgettable March trip.
Greece In March
March marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in Greece. This month is the sweet spot where the temperatures are beginning to rise and the crowds have not yet returned for the summer.
During this time of year, Greece basks in pleasant weather and is often more affordable and tranquil than during the high seasons.
March is the last moment in the year when the atmosphere retains a sense of relative solitude. This also means the airline and hotel rates haven’t surged to their summer peaks yet.
💡Pro Tip: In March many hotels, restaurants, and ferry services may still be closed for the winter so your trip will require a little extra planning.
Greece In March Weather
Athens, the capital of Greece, experiences average temperatures of 60°F (15°C) as the high and 45°F (7°C) as the low during March. Most days are characterized by sunshine and warmth.
Greece sees low humidity in March and very few rainy days. While there are still the occasional cool and overcast periods, on average, it will only rain about eight days in the entire month.
Northern Greece has a cooler climate, which is perfect for outdoor adventurers planning hiking trips, especially if you’re someone who loves the feeling of chilly spring air.
On the islands, like Milos and Crete, March offers crystal-clear skies and warm weather.
If water activities are on your agenda, it’s worth checking out the sea temperatures beforehand. While not as warm as in the peak summer months, the water can still be satisfying for a bracing swim.
Can You Swim in Greece in March?
Yes, you can swim in Greece in March, but it might be a bit nippy!
The average temperature in the waters surrounding Athens is 59°F (15°C). To put that in perspective, a comfortable swimming temperature is typically considered to be around 70° to 78°F (about 21° to 25.5°C).
Crete is the Greek island known for having the warmest waters. The ocean around this island sees an average temperature of 63°F (17°C) in March, which is cold for swimming but not unbearable.
Even if the waters are a bit chilly for your liking, the beaches are still fantastic for sunbathing.
Things To Do In Greece In March
With the coming of spring, Greece begins to wake up from its quiet winter slumber.
There is so much do to here from cultural exploration and archaeological sites in Athens to hiking in the mainland mountains.
It’s also the perfect time of year for optimal photography conditions. The sun isn’t too harsh and the crowds are fewer so you can capture iconic landmarks like the Parthenon in a relaxed atmosphere without other tourists blocking your shot.
Explore a Quiet Santorini
Santorini tops the list as the prime destination in Greece for a March visit. This island is typically bustling with tourists in the summer months, so spring is one of the best times to visit for a crowd-free experience.
It’s one of the few times of the year where you can explore Santorini and walk away calling it a tranquil adventure, plus it’s easily connected by ferry from Milos.
March on Santorini presents potential rain showers and low temperatures, but also glimpses of warm spring sunshine. While sea temperatures are a cool 59°F/15°C, making swimming a bit brisk, the lack of crowds and budget-friendly costs make it an attractive low-season option.
Visitors can explore cultural activities in Fira and Oia on wet days, soak up the sun on dry days, and indulge in local cuisine like tomato keftedes. Hikers will also love exploring the route from Fira to Oia without crowds.
For a longer excursion, the well-preserved ruins of the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri offer a fascinating journey into Santorini’s history.
The island capital, Fira, provides a convenient base for exploring museums and nearby beach resorts.
Oia, a picturesque village, offers a serene escape from high-season crowds. Wine enthusiasts can delve into Santorini’s winemaking heritage with visits to Santo Wines and the Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum.
Early March is a superb opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene ambiance while enjoying panoramic views of flourishing vineyards and the azure Aegean seascape.
Celebrate March 25th
March 25th is a day for both historical and religious celebrations in Greek culture. This day marks the Greek Independence Day and the Feast of the Annunciation.
On March 25, 1821, Greeks rose against Ottoman rule, igniting the Greek War of Independence. The struggle for freedom ended in 1829 and led to the establishment of the modern Greek state.
Meanwhile, the date also marks exactly nine months before Christmas. It commemorates the moment when the Archangel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and give birth to Jesus. It’s a crucial event in Christian theology and very much a part of Greek culture.
It’s a day of spiritual reflection, marked by church services, processions, and the faithful coming together to honor this sacred event.
Visiting Greece on March 25th offers a unique opportunity to witness and participate in these dual celebrations. Festivities typically include parades, religious services, and cultural events held across the country.
Cities and towns come alive with patriotic fervor. Greek flags adorn the streets and public spaces. The celebratory atmosphere is contagious, and locals warmly welcome visitors to partake in the joyous spirit of the day.
For those in Athens, there’s a parade near the House of Parliament in Syntagma Square, showcasing the Hellenic Armed Forces and a diverse array of military vehicles.
The Hellenic Parliament’s evocative changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is another solemn yet stirring experience.
You’ll get a more intimate perspective on the celebrations in small towns throughout Greece. Villages often celebrate with traditional music, dance, and local festivities.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Thanks to the rugged mountainous terrain, Greece is an outstanding place for mountain biking and hiking. Not only is the landscape nothing less than stunning, but the terrain provides a thrilling challenge for adventure seekers.
Mountain biking destinations include Crete, Naxos, Lake Plastira in Thessaly, Zagorochoria in Epirus, and Evrytania in central Greece. These mountainous regions feature exceptional cycling paths.
Though less extreme, cycling is also popular in Greece. The country’s comfortable weather and gorgeous landscapes make it a wonderful destination to explore on the seat of a bike.
In fact, cycling is one of the best ways to soak up the breathtaking scenery, including verdant forests, towering mountains, and picturesque meadows. In some places, like Kefalonia, you can bike past wild horses that roam freely through the land.
For those who love to adventure in the outdoors but would rather do it on your own two feet instead of with a set of wheels, spring in Greece is also a fantastic season for hiking.
Greece caters to every type of hiker. The mainland offers meticulously maintained trails winding through olive groves and traversing dramatic gorges. Meanwhile, on the country’s islands, ancient kalderimia (cobble-stone paved roads meant for hooved traffic dating back to Byzantine times) link quaint villages with stunning sandy coves.
Here are some of the best hiking options in Greece:
These routes offer a selection of trails perfect for seasoned hikers or leisurely walkers.
Dig Into Athens
Athens is a city that oozes with history and archeological sights just waiting to be explored. The city hovers around 60°F (15.5°C) during the day in March, which is the perfect temperature for strolling between historical monuments and soaking up Greek history.
Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Built around 520 BC, this colossal temple once had 104 Corinthian columns. It’s now reduced to 15 but is still an awe-inspiring testament to ancient grandeur.
The Arch of Hadrian is also worth seeing. This arch dates back to 132 AD and is also known as Hadrian’s Gate. It divides the ancient and Roman parts of Athens, bearing inscriptions of Theseus and Hadrian as founders.
The Parthenon is possibly the most famous structure in Greece. Despite facing war, fire, and revolutions, it still stands as a testament to the endurance of Greek civilization.
The Theatre of Dionysus is dedicated to Dionysus, the God of wine and theatre. It’s an ancient theatre at the foot of the Acropolis and is the oldest in Greece.
💡Pro Tip: Many of the Greek plays you learned about in school were originally played here for the first time.
Dedicated to the God of medicine, Asclepius, the Temple of Asclepius dates to 350 BC. It served as a healing sanctuary and a place for dream therapy.
Other places of historical significance that are worth a visit when wandering Greece in March include the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This impressive structure was built in 161 AD and was restored in the 1950s. It now hosts concerts and performances during the annual Athens Festival.
Finally, the Ancient Agora of Athens is a site that includes the Stoa of Attalos. It houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora, and the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, the Greek god of artisans, blacksmiths, and carpenters.
What To Wear In Greece In March
When packing for a trip, it’s important to do your research and prepare for the potential weather that’s likely to occur while you’re visiting. When traveling to Greece in March, you’ll want to pack layers to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures.
Bring a mix of light jackets, sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. This will help prepare you for the cooler evenings and long days of walking that you’re likely to experience. Don’t forget to bring swimwear if you plan to brave the refreshing waters of the Aegean Sea.
To help you remember all the important things to pack, here is a checklist for your trip to Greece in the early spring:
In addition to your clothes, remember to pack other essentials like your passport, power adapters, and a portable charger.
FAQs
You should now have a solid foundation for planning your trip to Greece in March. But to make sure you’re fully covered, let’s go over some frequently asked questions.
Is March a good time to visit Greece?
March is a fabulous time to visit Greece. This time of year offers a sweet spot with mild weather, fewer tourists, and the awakening of spring.
Besides the beautiful weather and serene surroundings, Greece in March is often more affordable because it’s before the high season begins.
Is it hot in Greece in March?
March in Greece sees temperatures ranging from mild to comfortably warm, especially in the southern regions. Athens averages around 60°F (15°C) while coastal regions hover around 61°F (16°C).
Can you go to the Greek islands in March?
Yes, many Greek islands are accessible in March. And, with fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more intimate experience at more affordable rates.
Where is the warmest in Greece during March?
Southern islands in Greece like Crete and Rhodes tend to have slightly warmer temperatures compared to the mainland. Here, the highs can reach 70°F (20°C) on a sunny day.
The Wrap-Up
While visiting Greece is a magical experience at any time of the year, March is an awesome time to take advantage of incredible rates and tranquil surroundings before the tourist season begins.
In March, you’ll experience beautiful weather, fun festivities, and a quieter ambiance.
Whether you seek the serenity of Paros the historical marvels of Athens, or the outdoor adventures in the countryside, Greece in March is a vacation that will fill your brain with fantastic memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
