Greece In March: Weather & Travel Tips

Not sure what weather to expect in Greece in March? Read on for a run-down through everything you need to know on that very subject. Here we cover everything from average air and sea temperatures, to what to expect in terms of costs and crowds, along with itineraries designed to make your trip all the most rewarding.

Greece in March at a glance

• Average temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 50°F to 61°F (10°C to 16°C).
• March in Greece means the end of the rainy season, with an average of around 7 to 9 rainy days throughout. That said, the rain tends to decrease as the month progresses.
• March is considered the shoulder tourist season for Greece, meaning fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation.
• Spring blooms start to emerge, especially in southern regions.

Is March a good time to visit Greece?

Heralding the first month of spring, March is a good time to visit mainland Greece and the islands — especially the most southerly islands — for some early sunshine. 

This is shoulder season, which means that while temperatures are starting to rise, the cost of accommodation remains low. Tourist crowds remain on the lower side, too.

Overall all, then, considering the weather in Greece in March and crazy hotel deals, this is a great time to visit the likes of Athens for crowd-free exploration of top sites.

Thinking of visiting Greece in March? Talk to our local Greek travel experts. 

Air and sea temperatures in Greece in March

Overall, the weather in Greece in March is variable. Expect a mixed bag of clouds and rain, alongside brighter, warmer days.

As for the average air and sea temperatures in Greece in March, they vary depending on where you are in the country. Athens, for example, averages a pleasant 61°F (16°C). So, by no means balmy, but a far cry from frozen chills.

In contrast, Northern Greece only sees average highs of 54°F (12°C). The weather is also more variable in the north, with more rain.

For warmer weather, head to the southern peninsula of the Peloponnese, or choose an island. For example, Crete is often several degrees warmer than Athens in March.

Wherever you go, the evenings will still be cool, and the sea temperature ranges from 57°F—61°F (14°C—16°C). Not exactly ideal for swimming! Also, bear in mind that the weather in Greece in March is very different at either end of the month. That is to say, by the last couple of weeks, spring is well and truly in the air.

Convinced to go? See our fully customizable Greece itineraries.

Can it rain in Greece in March?

In a word: yes. As mentioned above, the weather in Greece in March is somewhat variable, and that includes rain. Across the country, March sees an average of eight rainy days. 

That said, in March, monthly rainfall in Greece decreases by 0.4 inches (10mm) from February’s 2.4 inches (60mm) average. To further decrease the number of rainy days you’re likely to experience, visit later in March.

For more details on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on the best time to go to Greece.

What about the crowd and cost?

Sitting firmly in the shoulder season, visiting Greece in March means far smaller crowds than during the peak summer months — all the better for enjoying more authentic experiences, and getting up close to top attractions.

At the same time, the costs are lower than during the summer high season. Just be aware that not all accommodation options will have opened their doors, and ferry operators and airlines won’t be running their full summer schedules. 

Set on enjoying a break in spring? For more inspiration, discover more of the best places to travel in March.

What to wear in Greece in March

The weather in Greece in March isn’t yet warm enough for full-on summer garb, so you’ll need more than shorts, summer dresses, and swimwear.

Bring a warm jacket and light layers that’ll set you up for rain and sunnier days through to the chillier evenings. You should also bring a umbrella.

Ready to explore Greece? Get started with our expert travel planning tips.

Unforgettable and fully customizable Greece itineraries

Longing for a spring break that delivers natural beauty, unique history, fabulous food, and early sunshine? Take inspiration from our Greece itineraries.

What’s more, these suggestions can be customized to your wishes, with a local Greek travel expert on hand to take the hassle out of planning and booking. Use our tailor-made travel service and enjoy itineraries like:

• Athens — City of the Gods (4 days): if you’re short on time and big on culture, this 3-night trip offers immersive insights into Athens’ ancient wonders and modern verve. From taking in the Classical charm of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, to indulging in the city’s thriving modern food scene in local taverns, it’s a feast for the senses.
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of mortuaries in Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.
• Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it. Crete, Greece's largest island, delivers thousands of years of unique culture and rich history alongside untamed natural beauty. Crete is also one of the warmest places to go in Greece in March.

What to do in Greece in March

Overall, March is a top month to visit Greece to explore the likes of ancient sites and museums in crowd-free conditions. For those of you who are yearning for spring sunshine, the Greek Islands have your name all over them.

With that in mind, read on for ideas for what to do in Greece in March.

Explore idyllic islands

While you might not be sunbathing from dawn ‘til dusk, or soaking in bath-warm sea, several Greek islands remain lively around the year and see warm days in March.

Rhodes, for example, comes recommended for offering scenic spring walks, ancient wonders, year-round tourist infrastructure, and year-round liveliness.

With the Citadel of Rhodes boasting one of the best-preserved Old Towns in the world — and a UNESCO World Heritage Site no less — there are plenty of reasons the largest of the Dodecanese islands is one of Greece’s best-loved islands.

Celebrate Greek Independence Day

With parades happening throughout the country, the 25^th of March is Greek Independence Day. A day citizens take to the streets to commemorate the country’s independence from the Ottoman Empire.

In Athens, for example, a grand 90-minute military parade kicks off from Syntagma Square, with the Greek President and members of the Greek Orthodox Church in attendance.

Top tip: follow your nose to sample tasty, traditional Independence Day fodder. Namely, bakaliaros skordalia — fried salted cod steeped in garlic sauce and olive oil. 

Participate in a Marathon

Nafplio Marathon

Including a marathon, half-marathon, 5km, and 2.5 km fun run, the Nafplio Marathon is great for higher-preforming athletes and novices alike.

Held in early March, in the stunning coastal Peloponnese town of Nafplio, the races are accompanied by social and cultural events.

Athens Half-Marathon

Held annually in mid-March, the AthHalf sees over 20,000 runners take to the streets to compete in scenic half marathon and 5k routes.

Even if you have no intention of running, this event offers an extra reason to visit Greece in March, with local bands performing along courses that run through historic districts.

Planning your March trip to Greece

Fancy visiting Greece in March, or any other time of the year, for that matter? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Greece to start planning your dream trip. 

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on the whole shizzle of planning, browse our customizable Greece itineraries, and talk to our local Greece travel experts.

Love the sound of exploring Greece away from the mainland? Read up on the best Greek Islands, and get yourself The Rough Guide to Greek Islands.

Visit Greece in other months

• January
• February
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December