Top travel destinations in March: spring, festivals and the first hints of summer

Contents:

• Destination #1: Valencia, Spain – Spring sunshine meets the Mediterranean way of life
• Destination #2: Amsterdam & Keukenhof, Netherlands – Tulips, canals and springtime vibes
• Destination #3: Dublin, Ireland – pub culture, live music and a vibrant city break
• Destination #4: Japan – Anticipation of cherry blossoms and a spring straight out of a film
• Destination #5: Marrakesh, Morocco – Spring warmth, rooftop vibes and a ‘1001 Nights’ atmosphere
• Destination #6: Jamaica – Caribbean vibes, music and dream beaches
• Destination #7: Panama – Skyline, jungle and Caribbean islands
• Destination #8: Nepal – Temples, trekking vibes and a touch of adventure
• Destination #9: Florida, USA – sunshine, Art Deco vibes and an island feel
• Destination #10: Australia – urban cool, coastal panoramas and a late-summer feel
• 16 dream destinations in March, full of sunshine and perfect weather
• For a spectacular finale: March discoveries to spark your wanderlust

Destination #1: Valencia, Spain – Spring sunshine meets the Mediterranean way of life

• Why visit in March: Valencia is ideal in March because the city is already noticeably settling into spring: mild temperatures, plenty of light and that relaxed ‘outdoor living’ vibe, which often becomes more intense and vibrant during the summer months. Perfect for sightseeing without the heat, those first hours on the beach and long evenings in tapas bars and on sunny squares.

• Highlights: During the day, explore the old town, food markets and the modern architecture of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. In between, it’s well worth a trip to the sea – Valencia combines city life and the beach more effortlessly than almost any other Spanish destination. To help you plan the perfect trip, we also recommend our article: ‘Valencia’s most beautiful sights – from old town charm to beach vibes’ – featuring the key highlights at a glance.

• Ideal for: Couples, groups of friends and anyone looking for a sunny city break with a culinary focus in March.

• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights to Valencia, Spain, from Zurich, Basel and Geneva; the flight time is around 2 hours.

• Event 2026: Las Fallas (1–19 March 2026) – Valencia’s spectacular festival of art, tradition and fireworks, which you really should experience at least once.

Destination #2: Amsterdam & Keukenhof, Netherlands – tulips, canals and that springtime feeling

• Why visit in March: Amsterdam is perfect in March if you want to shake off winter for good. The city feels lighter again: the first sunny afternoons, more life along the canals and just the right temperature for walks, museums and cafés – without the summer crowds.

• Highlights: Amsterdam offers all the classics in a relaxed atmosphere: the canal districts, small boutiques, cosy coffee spots and highlights such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum. And then there’s the spring bonus: a trip to Keukenhof, where tulips, daffodils and hyacinths put on a spectacular show – one of the season’s most beautiful photo opportunities. You can find more inspiration in our article: “3 Days in Amsterdam – The Most Beautiful Places, Canals & Sights”.

• Ideal for: couples, trips with friends and anyone looking for a short break in March with plenty of atmosphere, culture and that ‘spring in the air’ feeling.

• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights to Amsterdam, Netherlands, from Zurich, Basel and Geneva; the flight time is around 1.5 hours.

• Event 2026: Keukenhof is open from 19 March to 10 May 2026 – the perfect opportunity to combine a city break with the Netherlands’ most beautiful spring outing.

   

Destination #3: Dublin, Ireland – pub culture, live music and a city break bursting with energy

• Why visit in March: Dublin is perfect for a city break in March because the city becomes noticeably livelier: there’s more activity on the streets, the days are longer and it offers just the right mix of fresh air and cosy indoor spots – ideal for sightseeing, coffee breaks and evenings filled with music.
• Highlights: Take a stroll through Temole Bar (preferably early on or during the week), explore the Trinity College Library, soak up the atmosphere in traditional pubs – and experience Dublin at its most authentic: amongst narrow alleyways, live folk music and trendy eateries.
• Ideal for: trips with friends, couples and anyone looking for a city break in March that feels both relaxed and truly ‘alive’.

• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights to Dublin, Ireland, from Zurich, Geneva and Basel; the flight time is around 2.5 hours. 

• Event 2026: St Patrick’s Festival in Dublin (14–17 March 2026) – the city celebrates for four days with events and activities throughout the city. 

Destination #4: Japan – Anticipation of the cherry blossoms and a spring straight out of a film

• Why visit in March: Japan is particularly charming in March, as spring is clearly on the way and the country slowly turns pink. The temperatures are pleasant for strolling around towns and going on day trips, without the heat and humidity of the summer months – perfect if you want to see plenty but still take it easy.

• Highlights: In Tokyo, you’ll experience the full vibrancy of modern neighbourhoods, the food scene and parks, which become real meeting places in spring. Kyoto offers a contrast with its temples, tranquil gardens and traditional alleyways – particularly beautiful when the lanterns light up in the evening. If you’d like to round off your trip, you can add a day trip to Nara or Hakone, depending on your itinerary. You’ll find even more inspiration in our article ‘Tokyo Sights: The Most Beautiful Places & Insider Tips’.

• Ideal for: culture lovers, couples and anyone planning a trip in March that feels truly special – with moments of nature right in the heart of the city and a touch of ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ magic.
• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights to Tokyo from Zurich; the flight time is around 12 hours.
• Event 2026: The Japan Meteorological Agency has published the dates for the 2026 cherry blossom season, which can serve as a valuable guide for your travel planning:
  • Tokyo: Blossoms from 22 March, full bloom around 29 March.
  • Nagoya: Blooming from 21 March, full bloom around 30 March.
  • Kyoto: Blooming from 25 March, full bloom around 2 April.
  • Osaka: Blooming from 25 March, full bloom around 1 April.
  • Hiroshima: Blooming from 22 March, in full bloom around 1 April.
  • Fukuoka: Blooming from 22 March, in full bloom around 30 March.

Destination #5: Marrakesh, Morocco – spring warmth, rooftop vibes and a ‘1001 Nights’ atmosphere

• Why visit in March: Marrakech is ideal in March because the city is already pleasantly warm, but hasn’t yet reached the intense heat of summer. Perfect for long days outdoors, relaxed sightseeing and that blend of culture, design and indulgence that makes Morocco so appealing.
• Highlights: Stroll through the souks, discover courtyards and riads, treat yourself to a mint tea on a rooftop terrace – and simply let yourself be carried away by the colours, spices and craftsmanship. Particularly lovely in March: day trips to the Atlas Mountains or the palm grove region, if you’d like to combine the city with nature.
• Ideal for: Couples, leisure travellers and anyone looking to combine sunshine, atmosphere and a short journey in March.

• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights to Marrakech, Morocco, from Zurich, Basel and Geneva; the flight time is around 3 hours and 20 minutes.

• Event 2026: Ramadan falls in March 2026 (depending on the sighting of the new moon). During the day, things tend to be quieter, whilst in the evenings the squares and restaurants become all the more lively – a particularly atmospheric time to travel if you’d like to experience this atmosphere first-hand.

Destination #6: Jamaica – Caribbean vibes, music and dream beaches

• Why visit in March: In March, Jamaica is ideal for anyone who wants to switch straight into ‘summer mode’ after winter: warm days, plenty of sunshine and exactly the sort of laid-back island pace that feels like a fresh start.

• Highlights: Jamaica offers the Caribbean at its best: long sandy beaches (Negril is a classic), turquoise waters, laid-back beach bars and a way of life deeply shaped by music and enjoyment. Added to this are nature excursions – from waterfalls to lush jungle spots in the island’s interior. Another special experience is swimming with horses in the sea – an unforgettable moment that perfectly captures the Jamaican holiday spirit.
• Ideal for: couples, beach lovers and anyone looking for sun, sea and ‘good vibes’ in March – without a major round-trip.
• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights from Zurich to Montego Bay (MBJ) (depending on the season/timetable). From Basel and Geneva, you’ll usually need to change flights; the flight time is around 13 hours 35 minutes. 

• Event 2026: Jamaica Food & Drink Festival (5–8 March 2026) – perfect if you want to combine a beach holiday with culinary highlights and a festival atmosphere. 

Destination #7: Panama – city skyline, jungle and Caribbean islands

• Why visit in March: March is the ideal time to visit Panama, as the warm temperatures combine perfectly with outdoor activities – whether it’s exploring the city, going on boat trips or enjoying nature. It’s just the right time of year if you’re looking for sunshine, but also want variety and genuine ‘wow’ moments.

• Highlights: Panama City surprises with its modern skyline, rooftops and the old-world charm of Casco Viejo. Added to this are spectacular contrasts within easy reach: a trip to the Panama Canal, jungle scenery around Lake Gatún – and, as the absolute highlight, the San Blas Islands with their white sands, palm trees and picture-postcard waters.
• Ideal for: couples, explorers and anyone who wants a taste of the Caribbean in March, whilst also incorporating culture, nature and excursions into their trip.
• Getting there from Switzerland: From Zurich, you’ll usually fly to Panama City (PTY) with a stopover. Depending on the connection, the journey usually takes around 15–17 hours (including stopover time).

• Event 2026: Pinta Panamá Art Week (18–22 March 2026) – perfect if you’d like to combine your trip with art, exhibitions and city life.

Destination #8: Nepal – Temples, trekking vibes and a touch of adventure

• Why visit in March: Nepal is particularly charming in March, as spring is just beginning and many days are ideal for sightseeing and gentle hikes – without the extreme summer heat or the monsoon. It’s perfect if you want to combine culture, nature and ‘something completely different’.

• Highlights: Kathmandu captivates with its temples, courtyards and bustling alleyways – and just a few hours outside the city, viewpoints and mountain panoramas await. Whether it’s a day hike, a short trek or simply a chance to breathe in the Himalayan air: Nepal feels like a fresh start in March.
• Ideal for: explorers, culture lovers, active holidays and anyone who’d rather have adventures in March than just lie by the pool.
• Getting there from Switzerland: From Zurich, you’ll usually travel to Kathmandu (KTM) with a stopover (there are currently no direct flights available). The total journey time is usually around 14 hours, depending on the connection (sometimes longer). 
• Event 2026: Holi (Festival of Colours) – in Nepal, Holi 2026 will be celebrated in the hill regions (including Kathmandu) on 2 March 2026, with the Terai region traditionally following on 3 March 2026.

Destination #9: Florida, USA – sunshine, Art Deco vibes and that island feel

• Why visit in March: In Florida, March feels like an early start to summer: warm, bright and ideal for a mix of city life, beach time and day trips. In the Florida Keys, average temperatures in March are around 20°C/26°C.
• Highlights: Miami offers beach life, Art Deco architecture and cafés with ‘Latin energy’. Then it’s off to the Florida Keys: a road trip across bridges, past turquoise waters and small island spots, with relaxing days spent between the beach and sea views.
• Ideal for: couples, groups of friends and anyone looking for some sun in March – but with a varied itinerary rather than just a beach holiday.

• Getting there from Switzerland: There are direct flights from Zurich to Miami (MIA), USA; the flight time is around 10 hours 25 minutes.

• Event 2026: Miami Music Week (24–29 March 2026) – a week in which Miami becomes the international capital of festivals and parties.

Destination #10: Australia – Cool cities, coastal panoramas and that late-summer feeling

• Why visit in March: March is a very popular time to visit Australia: late summer/early autumn, often pleasantly warm and ideal for days out in the city and road trips – without that really intense midsummer heat.

• Highlights: Melbourne impresses with its coffee culture, design, markets and a truly vibrant food scene. The Great Ocean Road offers the perfect contrast: spectacular coastal roads, viewpoints and that ‘road trip freedom’ that makes Australia so special.
• Ideal for: Leisure travellers, road trip enthusiasts, couples – and anyone looking for a long-haul holiday in March with ‘wow’ factor landscapes.
• Getting there from Switzerland: From Zurich, you’ll usually travel to Melbourne (MEL) with a stopover; the total journey time is generally around 20 hours (depending on the connection). 

• Event 2026: FORMULA 1 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne (6–8 March 2026) – a huge city highlight that completely electrifies Melbourne for a weekend. 

16 dream destinations in March, full of sunshine and perfect weather

• Australia – Average temperature 22°C, 15 days of rain, water temperature 22°C
• Costa Rica – average temperature 23.6°C, 4 days of rain, water temperature 26°C
• Dominican Republic – Average temperature 25.1°C, 6 days of rain, water temperature 26°C
• Florida – Average temperature 21.3°C, 10 days of rain, water temperature 23°C
• Haiti – Average temperature 25.7°C, 7 days of rain, water temperature 26°C
• Jamaica – Average temperature 27°C, 8 days of rain, water temperature 26°C
• Cuba – Average temperature 22.1°C, 5 days of rain, water temperature 25°C
• Cape Verde – Average temperature 22°C, 0 days of rain, water temperature 23°C
• Morocco – Average temperature 14.6°C, 7 days of rain, water temperature 16°C
• Mexico – Average temperature 26°C, 0 days of rain, water temperature 24°C
• Oman – Average temperature 25°C, 4 days of rain, water temperature 24°C
• Panama – Average temperature 32°C, rain on 2 days, water temperature 26°C
• Philippines – Average temperature 29°C, 2 days of rain, water temperature 27°C
• Puerto Rico – Average temperature 25°C, 12 days of rain, water temperature 25°C
• Sri Lanka – Average temperature 27.7°C, 8 days of rain, water temperature 28°C
• United Arab Emirates – Average temperature 20.6°C, 5 days of rain, water temperature 25.1°C

For a spectacular finale: March destinations to spark your wanderlust

March is the perfect month to travel if you want to leave winter behind whilst enjoying pleasant temperatures. Whether it’s the spring atmosphere in Europe, cherry blossom season in Japan, the flavour of the Orient in Morocco or summer vibes in Florida and Australia – now is the best time for varied trips without the pressure of the peak season.

Pack your bags and set sail for new adventures that will take you straight from the last breath of winter into spring. And don’t forget to take a look at our page featuring exclusive travel deals to book your next March adventure at an unbeatable price.