March in Greece is a transitional month, marking the end of winter and the start of spring.
It’s a fantastic time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds, cooler weather, and a more authentic experience. From exploring ancient ruins to witnessing local traditions, Greece in March offers a unique perspective on this timeless destination.
Chapter Trail
Greece Weather in March
March sees varied weather across Greece, with signs of spring starting to emerge:
- Athens and Mainland: Daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), with cool evenings.
- Greek Islands (Santorini, Crete, Mykonos): Milder, with highs around 13°C to 17°C (55°F to 63°F), though the seas are still chilly.
- Northern Greece (Thessaloniki, Meteora): Cooler, with temperatures between 7°C and 14°C (45°F to 57°F) and occasional rain.
WHAT TO DO AND EXPECT
Explore Ancient Sites
Visit the Acropolis in Athens, Delphi, and the ruins of Mycenae without the summer crowds.
Tour the Greek Islands
While swimming isn’t ideal, island hopping offers breathtaking scenery and fewer tourists.
Hike in Meteora
The weather is perfect for trekking to the monasteries perched on towering rock formations.
Visit Thessaloniki
Discover Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, and vibrant local markets.
Relax in Thermal Springs
Enjoy a soak in natural hot springs like those in Loutraki or Edipsos.
Experience Local Life
Wander through quaint villages and interact with locals in their slower, off-season pace.
Festivals and Events
Here are a few festivals and celebrations that you can enjoy when you visit Greece in March:
Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera)
Marks the start of Lent with kite flying, seafood feasts, and traditional music.
Greek Independence Day
Celebrate with parades and festivities commemorating Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule.
Apokries
If your visit aligns, enjoy the lively parades, costumes, and parties of this pre-Lenten festival.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Delights
Greek cuisine shines in March with fresh, seasonal ingredients and comforting dishes:
Lagana Bread
Specially baked for Clean Monday, often paired with olives and seafood.
Seafood Dishes
Octopus, calamari, and shrimp are popular during Lent.
Spanakopita
A savory spinach and feta pie perfect for a light meal.
Avgolemono Soup
A warm, lemony chicken soup with rice or orzo.
Conclusion
A trip to Greece in March offers a serene and culturally enriching experience, perfect for travelers seeking history, beauty, and authenticity. With its mix of ancient sites, charming villages, and festive traditions, this is an ideal time to explore the country before the busy tourist season begins. Pack a jacket and a sense of adventure, and let Greece in March surprise and delight you!
Check out Baboo Travel’s free itinerary for your custom trip to Greece below:
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!
