Best places to go in March: Top travel destinations to visit

This is because March is that time of transition between winter chill and the full onset of spring across most of the world. It would be that month when flowers begin to bloom, temperatures start to warm up, and the famous vacation places are less full than in peak summer months.

With March, you have a sea of potential choices whether you seek tropical getaways, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures. Here's a guide to some of the best places to visit in March.

1. Japan: Cherry blossom season

March commences the world-renowned cherry blossom, or sakura, season in Japan. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are soaked in pink and white, creating breathtaking scenery. The cherry blossom is usually seen blooming between late March and early April, so this is one of the best times to visit Japan's parks, temples, and gardens. Besides cherry blossoms, visitors could witness traditional tea ceremonies, temples, and the bustle of urban life.

Highlights: Cherry blossoms at Ueno Park (Tokyo), Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto), and Osaka Castle.

2. Morocco: 

A Cultural Tour March is one of the good times to visit Morocco for a cultural experience. As the weather is warm, it can be an excellent time to wander through the cities of Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca. Morocco offers a truly perfect mix of history, culture, and nature: colorful souks, old palaces, and the breathtaking Atlas Mountains. Do not forget the Sahara Desert, where you can enjoy camel rides, desert camps, and gorgeous sunsets. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Marrakech; Fes Medina; tour of the Sahara Desert; Aït Benhaddou.

3. India: Holi festival

March would be the ideal time if you wish to witness one of the most vibrant festivals in the world. The Holi festival that comes in March marks the arrival of spring with a pompous, colorful celebration. There is a zest of celebration in places such as Delhi, Jaipur, and Varanasi as the locals and tourists join hands together to throw color powders, dance around traditional sounds, and savor local delights.

Highlights: Celebrate Holi in Jaipur, Varanasi, and Delhi Visit the Taj Mahal Explore Jaipur's Pink City.

4. Australia: Great barrier reef

There are perfect destinations in Australia's tropical north: one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef, under fantastic snorkeling and diving conditions. March time is also when the rainy seasons are nearly over, so you will enjoy good weather to go through beaches, rainforests, or cities like Cairns and Port Douglas. Furthermore, Australia's east coast, replete with national parks, wildlife, and laid-back coastal towns, is simply a fantastic trip.

Highlights: Snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Whitsunday Islands.

5. Spain: Seville and andalusia

The southern Spanish city of Seville and the Andalusian region are wonderful destinations in March. Spring blossoms are just beginning to bloom, the weather is pleasant and mild, and not too crowded with summer holidays. Historic Seville will reveal Moorish architecture, lively plazas, and the exquisite Alcázar Palace. Travel further to Granada for the stunning Alhambra Palace or to Córdoba for its mesmerizing mosque-cathedral.

Highlights: Seville Cathedral, Alcázar of Seville, Alhambra Palace (Granada), and Mezquita in Córdoba.

6. New Zealand: Outdoor activities

For the outdoorsy enthusiast, March is a great time to visit New Zealand. There, summer gradually gives way to autumn but still offers good weather for trekking, biking, or just traveling around this country. Dramatic fjords, mountains, and lakes are in abundance on the South Island, and among the best spots to experience these are the visits to Milford Sound, Abel Tasman National Park, and Queenstown, so don't miss these.

Highlights: Milford Sound cruises, adventure sports in Queenstown, and hiking through Abel Tasman National Park.

7. Mexico: Cancun and tulum

For those who would love a beach vacation that would likely be passed beneath the warm and bright sun, an excellent destination in March is the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, specifically Cancun and Tulum. The region boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lively nightlife. Weather conditions in March are perfect for spending some time sunbathing by the sea, visiting ancient Mayan ruins such as Chichén Itzá, or swimming in the cenotes, natural sinkholes.

Points of Interest:  Chichén Itzá, Tulum's beachfront ruins, snorkeling in cenotes End.

8. Italy: Rome and florence

Italy is very enjoyable in March, especially for those interested in history, art, and architecture without the summer crowds. Rome, Florence, and Venice are perfect destinations for this season: mild temperatures, not too many tourists, and ideal to visit. From the Colosseum in Rome to the art galleries in Florence, Italy's cultural offerings are endless. Spring, with flowers in the Italian countryside, arrives in March.

Highlights: Vatican City, the Colosseum, Uffizi Gallery (Florence), and Venice's canals.

9. Thailand: Beach breaks

Thailand is a great destination in March, particularly for those wanting to escape to warm beaches and tropical islands. Consider going to Phuket, Krabi, or the Phi Phi Islands to enjoy the excitement of a tropical getaway, since monsoon season is still three months away. March still promises lots of sunny days, which would be perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and enjoying Thailand's vibrant nightlife. Bangkok and Chiang Mai also promise cultural experiences, temples, and bustling markets.

Highlights: Phi Phi Islands, temples in Chiang Mai, and nightlife in Bangkok.

10. Iceland: Northern lights and adventure

Northern Lights viewing is greatly spectacular and should be viewed in March. Coincidentally, during this time of year, nights are long, and the skies are clear. March also marks the end of winter; so studying the country's glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls becomes all the more fascinating. Do not miss the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, or the fantastic black-sand beaches of Vik.

Special highlights: Northern Lights tours, the Blue Lagoon, and the Golden Circle route.

11. South Africa: Cape town and safari

March is a fantastic time to visit South Africa, especially Cape Town. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for hiking Table Mountain, moving across the Cape Wine lands, and visiting Robben Island. It's also a good period to undertake that long safari in Kruger National Park or that wonderful drive down the Garden Route. South Africa comprises all aspects of natural beauty, wildlife, and cities pulsating with energy.

Major attractions: Table Mountain, Cape Wine lands, Kruger National Park safari, and Boulders Beach penguins.

12. Greece: Athens and santorini

The peak tourist season for Greece is during the summer, but viewing this destination in March could be quieter, more peaceful, and even without huge tourist crowds. Athens, which is packed with ancient ruins and city life, can be an excellent starting point, while later moving to islands like Santorini and Mykonos, whose weather is mild with breathtaking views of whitewashed houses, crystal-clear waters, and historic sites.

Highlights: Acropolis in Athens, Santorini’s sunsets, and Mykonos’ beaches.

March is a wonderful travel month for a melting pot of all possible explorations for each type of traveler. If you are interested in festivals to explore, natural landscapes to appreciate, or a beach getaway to rest, there is something in March to match your taste. From the blossoming cherry trees of Japan to the vibrant festivals of India, the excitement just never ends. Make early plans and exploit pleasant weather and smaller crowds to make the most of these destinations.