visit italy in march

An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

Italy in March: how to plan the perfect trip to Italy in spring

Visiting Italy in March: all you need to know to plan a trip! The best places to visit in March in Italy, when to book what, what to expect from the weather.

March is one of the best months to visit Italy, a lovely time when the country moves from the winter into the spring season.

Blossoms return to the trees and balconies, days are a little longer, lunch outdoors become possible in most of the country, however, rain is always around the corner in Italy in march so you cannot truly trust the weather!

The best way to describe March in Italy is probably by an old Italian saying ‘ Marzo pazzerello, esce il sole e prendi l’ombrello ‘, which translates ‘Crazy March, the sun comes out, you grab the umbrella’.

While layers and a portable umbrella are your best friend in March, I love traveling around Italy in spring. This is all you need to plan a trip to Italy in March.

Please note :  this is a seasonal travel guide about Italy in March, meant to help you decide the best time of the year for your visit. For official information and travel advisory that may affect your trip, please refer to your Government travel advisory. Check here for official info if traveling from  US ,  Canada ,  UK ,  Ireland ,  Australia ,  New Zealand .

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we might make a small commission.

Italy in March: what you will find in this article

• Overview of weather in March in Italy
• March festivities and events in Italy
• Recommended places to visit in Italy in March

March in Italy with kids

• What to book in advance for March in Italy

The weather in Italy in March: what to expect

The weather in March in Italy is significantly different depending on where in Italy you are however, with the exception of the mountains where you still have snow, you can expect it to be spring weather, which in Italy means mild, changeable and, possibly, rainy.

At a glance, the weather in Italy in March is:

In practical terms, these temperatures mean you will want to have layers as you will go from sunnier days/hours that will feel nice and warm to colder times that will require a jacket.

Do not let north/south considerations influence you too much: the South of Italy can be very chilly in March; so, you will want layers no matter where you go!

March festivities in Italy you need to know about

There are two main festivities to be aware of when planning a trip to Italy in March.

The 8th of March is International Women’s Day, or Festa della Donna , as it is called in Italian.

This festivity doesn’t affect the opening of offices, museums or attractions however, you may notice special events and higher crowds of women out, especially in the evening, to mark the festivity.

You will also notice many bouquets of yellow flowers around: you can read what they mean and why Italy celebrates the 8th of March here .

Good to know! Many museums and attractions are free for women on this day! check individual websites for norices about this close to the time.

Easter holidays often fall in March . When this happens like in 2024, you will find Easter affects the opening of some museums and the availability of public transport (inner city bus service is usually reduced).

Eating out and basic sightseeing is usually not impacted. However, places such as the Vatican Museums are closed on this day. If traveling to Italy at Easter, check the websites of each attraction for closures and shortened opening hours between Good Friday and Easter Monday included.

Find here >>> official websites of Italy’s most popular attractions

The best places to visit in Italy in March

March is such a lovely month in Italy it is hard to pick the best destination for it as, truly, you can visit almost anywhere in March in Italy.

That said, some places are, I believe, even better than others.

Beach destinations, for instance, will be in their low season, and you don’t find swimming weather (usually): summer resort towns with little local life tend to be very quiet at this time, and hotels and restaurant options will be limited.

However, bigger coastal towns will local life, schools etc (Sorrento, Sestri….) will be open for local life and can be very pleasant and ‘real’ at this time.

This is a quick overview of my favorite destinations for March in Italy.

Rome – the best visit to visit in Italy in March

March brings very changeable weather to Rome. However, it is one of my favorite months in the city!

Flowers are already in full bloom in Rome in March and all outdoor attractions from piazzas to the Colosseum and the Forum are simply delightful to explore.

Since I am from the city, I have more than a couple of tips to give you about visiting in March!

You can find my full guide to visiting Rome in March here

Venice in March

March is one of the best months to visit Venice.

After the damp cold of the winter and the exciting yet tiring crowds of the carnival, Venice is spring welcomes better temperatures and slightly lower tourist numbers, both contributing to making the city positively magical!

March may still bring rain and, in the case, of Venice, the dreaded ‘acqua alta’ (high water) however there is plenty to do here whatever the weather.

Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, Rialto but also Cannaregio can be wonderful at this time.

You can find our guides to Venice at the following links:

• How many days in Venice? Itinerary ideas
• The best places to stay in Venice
• What to eat in Venice
• Venice with kids (see below)

Tuscany in March

Tuscany and its rolling hills go through a magical time in March.

On a sunny day, you can enjoy the stunning rolling hills of this area, go for long days of sightseeing and even sit in the sun on one of the many Tuscany beaches .

On colder and rainy days, you can visit Tuscany’s infinite museums and warm up with the local food (wonderfully warming in winter) and, of course, indulge in the region’s wines.

The best places to visit in Tuscany in March are:

• Florence – too hot in summer, cold in winter but perfect in spring
• Val d’Orcia – an area of Tuscany of natural beauty so unique, it is now Unesco World Heritage Site
• San Gimignano – delightful medieval town and Unesco World Heritage Site
• Siena – One of the most beautiful small towns in Italy , with a wonderful historical town center
• Lucca – a pretty town with a lovely center and the option to cycle along its medieval walls
• Montalcino – wine town, perfect for wine lovers
• Montepulciano – one of the prettiest villages in Tuscany and my personal favorite
• Pienza – built in the Renaissance as the perfect city, no less!
• San Quirico d’Orcia – a delightful medieval town in the heart of stunning Val d’Orcia
• Monticchiello – a delightful country hamlet perfect to immerse yourself in relaxin country settings
• Bagno Vignoni and Saturnia , two thermal localities with some of the best thermal springs in Tuscany

Umbria in March

Often considered the little sister of Tuscany, Umbria is stunning in any season and can be a real treat in March.

Depending on the weather, you can enjoy long walks and days along the shores of the regions’ Lake Trasimeno or you can warm up in its lovely museums and restaurants.

Not to be missed are:

• Orvieto – a stunning hilltop town with a long history and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy (the Duomo)
• Perugia – a wonderful medieval town
• Assisi – the famous and stunning town of St Francis
• Citta’ di Castello – a gorgeous renaissance town
• Gubbio – wonderful, medieval gem, one of the most beautiful towns in central Italy
• Spello – small and pretty village famous for its flowery balconies especially

Puglia in March

Puglia is one of my favorite destinations in Italy in March

On a good year, you will be able to enjoy long days out and you may even get the chance to wear lighter clothing here, however, don’t count on it as, as we said, March weather has a mind of its own!

Wonderful places to visit in Puglia at this time are

• Trani – a pretty, small village with a stunning church overlooking the sea (a vision!)
• Martina Franca – a lovely, whitewashed town with wonderful churches in a unique Baroque style called ‘Barocco Martinese’
• Alberobello – the famous town of trulli , UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Locorotondo – a delightful small town with whitewashed houses and pretty balconies everywhere (they win an annual prize for them, they are so special!)

You can see them all with a short road trip: you can find our 3 day Puglia itinerary here.

Matera in March

Close to Puglia but in the region of Basilicata, you have Matera, another wonderful destination to add to your March itinerary through Italy.

Matera is famous for its rupestrian churches and cave dwellings and can be lovely in spring.

Winter is rigid here and summer can be hot while spring can bring lovely temperatures that make sightseeing easy and do justice to this wonderful city.

You can find our guide to Matera here .

Sicily in March

March can be a good month to visit Sicily however the weather can be hit and miss so I recommend wrapping up, or at least you have layers with you so you can enjoy wonderful Sicily whatever the weather.

March in Sicily is a good time for cultural tourism, rather than and sea and sun vacation since high temperatures, especially towards the end of the month, are not always guaranteed.

Places we love in Sicily are:

• Scopello – a charming small village with a beautiful, historical ‘tonnara’ (tuna fishing station, not turned cultural/event venue)
• Palermo – one of the most beautiful cities in Italy
• Taormina – a town with a fantastic ancient theater and glamorous town center with shops and hotels
• Siracusa – a fantastic town with a historical city center and one of the best archaeological parks in Italy
• Noto Valley – UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the presence of unique baroque towns

You can find our recommended Sicily itinerary here .

Other places you may want to visit in Italy in March

The Italian Dolomites in March – March is the end of the ski season on the Dolomites so a trip here can be great if days on the slopes are in your plans.

The exact snow and weather conditions depend on the time of the month, the year and the exact locality, but usually places such as Val Badia or the area of San Candido are wonderful, but do check with local providers as the weather here is fickle!

Cinque Terre – March is not the best time to visit Cinque Terre as it will be too cold to swim/go boating and some trails may be closed due to weather.

However, this can be a good time to visit the Cinque Terre villages , especially if you get a nice sunny day.

If you are in the area and the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can also consider a trip to Genoa , which is lovely and full of beautiful museums, perfect even on rainy days.

Amalfi Coast – March is the last stretch of the low season on the Amalfi Coast (unless it is Easter!) and this has pros and cons.

The pros of coming at this time is that usually you have lower crowds than later in spring and summer and the prices are usually a little more affordable too, both excellent reasons to come!

This is also a time when the terrible traffic of this area is often less intense, meaning you can actually drive here, one of the most scenic ways to see the area

On the cons list, however, you have a reduced ferry system that will limit your option of seeing the islands and enjoy the coast from the water.

Need to know: If Easter falls in March, the low season remark doesn’t apply as the area is very very popular and when schools are off it can get very busy even if the weather is not amazing

You can find our guides to the Amalfi Coast at the following links:

• How many days to spend on the Amalfi Coast: itinerary recommendations
• The best towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast
• Visiting the Amalfi Coast with kids (see below)

March can be a lovely time to visit Italy with kids as chances are the weather will allow them to spend time and the park and play in the spring sun at least for part of your stay.

Destinations I feel work well with kids at this time are:

Florence – always lovely with children but way too hot in summer.

Venice – mild and devoid of mosquitoes, hungry and annoying in summer

Tuscany – March has the perfect temperature for hilltop town hopping and thermal springs.

Umbria – Like Tuscany, this is a nice time to visit villages and for short hikes.

Rome – full of indoor and outdoor attractions for all ages

Sicily – mild and beautiful perfect for family sightseeing and the occasional day on the beach (for sandcastles, not swimming)

Looking for family destination ideas in Italy? Find my selection of the best places to visit in Italy with kids here.

What to book in advance for spending March in Italy

March can be busy in Italy and advance booking for all main attractions is recommended. If Easter falls in March, booking well ahead is recommended as demand and prices go up fast.

Attractions that need advance booking are:

• Last Supper (Milan)
• Uffizi Gallery (Florence)
• Accademia Gallery (Florence)
• Vatican Museums (Vatican City, Rome)
• Colosseum (Rome)
• All Tours – anything you know for sure you want to do is better booked well ahead. Find my favorite Italy booking resources here .

Trains – High-speed trains tend to cost more if both last minute, so it is a good idea, when possible, to book 3/4 weeks ahead. You can find here >>> all my tips about train travel in Italy

I always recommend booking accommodation in advance and my favorite booking engine is booking.com.

They have a large selection of accommodation options and excellent free cancellation opportunities too.

• Their home page
• Their villa search page
• Their rental search page

Good to know! Easter Monday is traditionally a day when Italians go on excursions outside the main cities. This means that roads, in particular, can get very congested: should Easter Monday fall in March, it is a good day to stay put and explore locally.

I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to Italy in March. Don’t forget to also check out our 101 travel tips for Italy , for extra info. Safe travel planning!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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Fearlessly Italy

Italy in March – What to Do + Planning Tips (2024 Edition)

Are you thinking about traveling to Italy in March and not sure what to expect? You have landed in the very right place. From what to expect from the weather to what to do, we are going to give you all our local’s insights on planning a perfect Italy trip .

March in Italy is a sort of transition month. Why? Because it’s the month when winter steps aside for spring to start, the temperatures start to get milder, the winter slumber is almost over, the tourism season is about to kick off.

This makes it a bit of an unpredictable month and our guide wants to address all the info you need to know to plan a smooth trip and avoid surprises. We talk about what to book ahead, what to pack and wear, and obviously what are the best places to visit and activities to take part in.

Table of Contents

Is March a good month to visit Italy?

March is a great month to visit Italy . The tourist season isn’t in full swing yet so visiting even the busier landmarks is not a hassle and smaller crowds allow for a better experience. The weather is definitely more pleasant than in summer because you can walk for hours on end without sweating.

In my opinion, March is a fantastic month to plan your two-week Italy vacation as you can really enjoy it at your own pace. Even if you can stay only 10 days in Italy , it’s going to be a terrific trip with mostly lovely weather, long days, and smaller crowds.

Pros and cons of traveling to Italy in March

• Small crowds. Tourists are starting to arrive in big cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, but landmarks won’t be as crowded as in the peak seasons such as May or July.
• Better weather. Even though pretty unpredictable, in most regions of Italy , the weather in March is less cold than in February and walking is obviously more pleasant than in the summer months.
• Longer days. In March, the days get longer because of the approaching of the warm season and also because Italy adopts daylight saving time.
• Unpredictable weather. That’s right, even though not the coldest month of the year, March in Italy has in store a good deal of unpredictability for us. The weather can change quite suddenly so better if you come prepared.
• Possible rain. Showers in March in Italy are always around the corner.
• No swimming time. Even if you see clear and sunny skies, you can’t really swim anywhere in Italy in March as the water is still too cold.

Can you go to the beach in Italy in March?

Even though this is the month when spring starts, March in Italy is no beach time. By this, I mean that it’s not sunbathing and swimming time and definitely you can’t go wearing a bikini, but there are plenty of more things you can do on the beach in March.

When it’s calm and sunny, it’s a great time to go for a walk along the beach. In March, several sea resorts around Italy from the Amalfi Coast to Liguria’s Cinque Terre are starting to reopen after the winter slumber so you can enjoy also lunch or dinner with a view, afternoon coffee, or evening drinks.

Is Sorrento or Positano better in March?

I would probably recommend Sorrento or Naples as a base for your trips because Positano, Ravello, and the Amalfi Coast in general are not fully active yet. Sorrento is a bigger town and you have more chances to find a larger choice of hotels and restaurants.

Weather in Italy in March

Is Italy warm in March? Is March a rainy month in Italy? Being when the tourist season starts to kick off, many are the questions world travelers have about planning a trip to Italy in March.

In Italy, we have a saying “Marzo pazzerello, guarda il sole e prendi l’ombrello”, meaning “Crazy March, look at the sun and take the umbrella”. This is to stress how unpredictable the weather in March in Italy is, literally able to change within minutes.

Keep in mind that although March is the month that welcomes spring, for the first three weeks, it’s still winter. This means that warm clothes are necessary and in no way it’s beach time!

Weather in March in northern Italy

As for the other winter months, the northern Italian regions are colder than the south in March, too. Even though this is when spring starts, don’t be mistaken and keep wearing warm clothes if you travel to northern Italy in April .

• Milan: high 14°C (57°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Turin: high 14°C (57°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Aosta: high 14°C (57°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Venice: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Verona: high 14°C (57°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Bologna: high 14°C (57°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Ravenna: high 13°C (55°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Trieste: high 13°C (55°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Trento: high 10°C (50°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Bolzano: high 16°C (61°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Genoa: high 15°C (59°F) – low 9°C (48°F)

Weather in March in central Italy

Central Italy in March still sees some cold weather, especially at night. Rome enjoys some of the higher temps while cities like L’Aquila and Perugia are slightly colder.

• Rome: high 17°C (63°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Viterbo: high 14°C (57°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Florence: high 14°C (57°F) – low 1°C (34°F)
• Siena: high 16°C (61°F) – low 4°C (39F°)
• Pisa: high 15°C (59°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Lucca: high 15°C (59°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Perugia: high 13°C (55°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Assisi: high 13°C (55°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Arezzo: high 15°C (59°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• L’Aquila: high 10°C (50°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Campobasso: high 11°C (52°F) – low 4°C (39°F)

Weather in March in southern Italy

How warm is southern Italy in March? Is Amalfi warm in March? Southern Italy is very popular in summer so as soon as the nice weather starts creeping in, travelers start making plans and inquiries. This is one of the warmest areas in Italy all year round, and spring is a lovely time to enjoy the views without the scorching summer sun.

• Naples: high 17°C (63°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Caserta: high 16°C (61°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Salerno: high 16°C (61°F) – low 12°C (54°F)
• Amalfi Coast: high 16°C (61°F) – low 12°C (54°F)
• Sorrento: high 19°C (66°F) – low 13°C (55°F)
• Positano: high 19°C (66°F) – low 13°C (55°F)
• Bari: high 15°C (59°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Foggia: high 15°C (59°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Lecce: high 16°C (61°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Alberobello: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Ostuni: high 14°C (57°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Reggio Calabria: high 17°C (63°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Matera: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)

Weather in March in the Italian islands

In March, Sicily is slightly warmer than Sardinia, but both regions are perfect for sightseeing. Even though they are famous for their wonderful beaches, the temperatures are still not warm enough to sunbathe and swim as the water is still very cold.

• Palermo: high 17°C (63°F) – low 11°C (52°F)
• Agrigento: high 16°C (61°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Catania: high 18°C (64°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Taormina: high 16°C (61°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Siracusa: high 18°C (64°F) – low 10°C (50°F)
• Ragusa: high 18°C (64°F) – low 12°C (54°F)
• Cagliari: high 17°C (63°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Sassari: high 13°C (55°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Palau: high 14°C (57°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Nuoro: high 14°C (57°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Oristano: high 15°C (59°F) – low 10°C (50°F)

Important dates in Italy in March 2024

Except in the years of early Easter, usually, March in Italy is not a holiday month. There are, however, a few dates to mark if you like to blend in and take part in some local events.

• March 8th – International Women’s Day. Women’s Day in Italy is not a holiday and is usually celebrated in the evening by couples or groups of friends who go out for dinner or themed parties.
• March 19th – Father’s Day. Father’s Day is also not a holiday in Italy but you will see several themed events to celebrate fatherhood with children and their families, especially in parks or some kids-friendly restaurants.
• March 26th – Daylight saving time. On the night between Saturday 25th of March and Sunday 26th at 2 am, the time in Italy changes and you need to set your clock forward one hour.
• Lent. In 2024, Easter is on March 31st so the whole month of March is the Lent period. This doesn’t involve any particular holidays.

What to do in Italy in March

Join a local festival.

From the Eurochocolate in Perugia, Umbria, to the Mandorlo in Fiore festival in Agrigento, Sicily, In Italy in March there are several local fairs. Whether you are a cultural traveler, a foodie, or a photography enthusiast, Italy delivers for pretty much any passion and preference.

The nice weather and long days will help you enjoy the festival and take memorable pictures.

Celebrate Women’s Day

You will understand that Women’s Day is coming because the city will be filled with fluffy, yellow bunches of mimosa flowers around every corner. If you want to buy mimosa for the women close to you, you can find them in all flower shops as well as all flower street vendors in the city center who will have promptly switched their roses for the seasonal yellow blossoms.

Women’s Day is also celebrated with a nice dinner, by joining a themed party at a local nightclub or attending a live concert. Wherever you are, ask your hotel’s reception for any occasion in plan in their city and they will be happy to help.

Celebrate Father’s Day

On the 19th of March, in Italy, we celebrate San Giuseppe, Saint Joseph, and traditionally it’s Father’s Day. This is a lovely occasion to enjoy your time with your family by taking part in children’s and kids’ themed events and scavenger hunts in parks, restaurants, or museums. Do you need an idea?

In Rome, you can visit Explora Museum where they have different sections and activities depending on the age of your children. Whether you are traveling to Rome with a toddler or with older kids, Explora will have something planned out for every age.

Are you in the Liguria region? Don’t miss the wonderful Aquarium, one of the coolest places to visit in Genoa , where they will probably have special activities and multimedia installments for the day.

If you are in Veneto, the famous Gardaland entertainment park will certainly organize activities and promotions for the special day.

Visit an art city

Even though spring officially kicks off towards the end of the month, March in Italy is a lovely month for sightseeing.

The weather is very walking-friendly because it doesn’t get too cold anymore and it’s not too hot yet. When it’s a bit colder, wear an extra layer and you will be fine, and if it rains, duck into a cozy coffee shop for a coffee or cappuccino, and don’t worry, showers in March hardly last.

This is a fantastic time to explore Rome’s open-air ancient sites and archaeological sites like Ostia Antica, Pompeii, and Paestum. March is the month to discover the best things to do in Florence , visit beautiful cities like Verona, and also make a trendy trip to Milan for its art and fashion hubs.

Lovers of hiking and outdoor activities will be spoilt for choice over where to go in Italy in March. You can do some hiking along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast or the Cinque Terre for beautiful views.

The ski resorts of Trentino-Alto Adige’s Dolomites are still open through March, some even in April, when the winter season ends and locals get ready for the busy summer season.

Some places you can visit to hike in Trentino include Merano and its surroundings, Plose in the Isarco Valley, and the wonderful Val Gardena. If you don’t feel like skiing, don’t worry because in March in Trentino there is much more you can do such as walking in the woods, tasting local foods, and exploring quaint towns.

Take postcard-like pictures

Italy is very picturesque all over. This is probably why many cities and regions have often been the set of Italian and international movies. If you are visiting Italy in March when spring is at the beginning, the light and the colors are great for taking pictures.

This is especially true from Rome southward in locations like Puglia, Calabria, Basilicata, and Sicily, where you can find some places famous as screen tourism destinations. In Taormina, for example, Sicily, the HBO series “The White Lotus” was filmed.

Best places to visit in March in Italy

There’s hardly a bad time to visit Rome, but if you like quiet and are not scared by occasional rain showers, March is the month for you. Visiting the Colosseum and other busy landmarks is easier because of the shorter lines and you can actually enjoy the places.

For the sights that usually see the biggest crowds such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, I still recommend booking online your skip-the-line entrance or joining a private tour inclusive of fast-track access.

Rome in March enjoys a lovely light, temperatures start getting warmer, and days are longer. The onset of spring is visible also from the colorful flowers placed in the main squares and blossoming on the trees. This is a fantastic time to discover Rome’s wonderful squares , the gorgeous Roman fountains , and the city’s panoramic viewpoints.

Amalfi Coast

Winter is waving goodbye and tourist resorts such as the always-popular Amalfi Coast are getting ready to welcome the crowds. Restaurants and hotels are slowly reopening their doors, and local tourist services are available to help and assist.

This is a great time to explore more of the region, too, so apart from the Amalfi Coast and its scenic cliffside Positano town, you can visit Sorrento in the Sorrentine Peninsula facing the Bay of Naples, the beautiful Positano, and take a ferry to Capri or Ischia islands from Naples.

As I mentioned before, I suggest booking your hotel in Naples or Sorrento because the Amalfi Coast is still slowly emerging from winter hibernation.

Naples is one of my favorite cities in southern Italy . Enjoying a mild climate all year round, sightseeing in Naples in March is lovely. The weather is still a bit chilly but pleasant to walk around without sweating.

This is a great time to visit landmarks such as the Veiled Christ, the Duomo, and Maschio Angioino castle, walk in the central Spaccanapoli area and tuck into a delicious pizza.

March in Naples allows for lovely walks under the sun and along the beach, but it’s not time for swimming as temperatures are still cold and the water didn’t have the time to warm up.

Pompeii is a huge archaeological site that you can hardly visit in half a day. You can either stay a whole day or just visit half of it. I suggest booking a local guide because it will give a boost to your experience.

Because it’s so vast, open-air, and mostly uncovered, exploring it in summer is really challenging. Trust me, I did that and will never forget the sweating and the unforgiving sun. The next time I will visit Pompeii, it will certainly be any season but summer. If you are visiting Italy in March, this is a great month for this important landmark.

Right after the excitement of the Venice Carnival , in March the city is more tranquil and waits for the spring to unfold. Since there’s hardly a more scenic city than Venice, seize the occasion of tranquil streets and small crowds for a walk around its beautiful canals and bridges.

More importantly, as spring approaches, there will be less chance of flooding, and also humidity levels will be lower.

Appreciate the arrival of the new season in its longer days, colors, and scents, and take plenty of suggestive pictures of the local balconies leaning towards the water and full of flowers.

Florence really needs very little introduction. One of the most famous cities in Italy , so any time is a good time to visit. March, as spring approaches, is a great time to make Florence your base to explore more of Tuscany.

There are many easy day trips from Florence you can take to enjoy the natural landscape, the culture, and the traditions of its region. Soak in the greenery of the Chianti vineyards, visit medieval towns such as Siena and Lucca, pose in front of the Leaning Tower in Pisa , and relax in the soft rolling hills of the Val D’Orcia.

Perugia in winter is very cold, and even though March is when spring begins, don’t expect very mild temperatures. It doesn’t really rain much but expect chilly weather.

The main event taking place in Perugia in March and attracting thousands of visitors daily is Eurochocolate, a chocolate-themed kermess that in 2024 will be between March 15th and 24th. This is the very end of the month so you will most likely find warmer temperatures, longer days, and overall better weather.

Lapping the shores of Lombardia, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige, Lago di Garda is Italy’s largest lake. While March is still chilly at times, with spring approaching, it’s a nice month to visit. Being so huge and touching many towns, there are many places around Lake Garda you can go to.

Fans of outdoor activities and natural landscapes will love their holiday here. You can explore sights like Heller Garden which, after the winter break, reopens in March and displays over 3000 plant species together with works of Keith Haring, Roy Lichtenstein, Auguste Rodin, and Fernand Leger among others.

If you are into parks, a gorgeous one is Parco Sigurtà , located close to Peschiera del Garda in the Veneto region. After the usual winter closure, Parco Sigurtà reopens to the public on March 5th. Extending for over 600.000 square meters, enjoying the colors of spring here is a sensory overload starting with the tulip exhibition and a tribute to women on March 6th, 7th, and 8th when all women will enjoy free entrance.

Cinque Terre

For sure, if you are a fan of hiking and outdoor activities, the Cinque Terre is a fantastic place to do that and March offers great views and pleasant temperatures. The weather in March on the Italian Riviera will still be a bit chilly but the hiking routes will open again and the views are great.

Hike through the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Manarola, and take the train to reach nearby Levanto, the gorgeous Portovenere, and sea resorts like Lerici and Tellaro.

Agrigento, Sicily

In March, Agrigento shows off all its natural wonders, trees are blossoming, and spring is improving everyone’s mood. Agrigento is a lovely place to visit in March in Italy because of its annual literary festival known as Mandorlo in Fiore, Italian standing for “blossoming almond tree”. The 2024 edition of the Mandorlo in Fiore festival will take place between the 9th and the 17th of March.

During this festival, you can take part in the many activities organized for the occasion such as live shows and concerts, cooking shows, and educational workshops. Since you are in Agrigento, you really don’t want to miss a visit to the fantastic Valle dei Templi ancient Greek city, one of the highlights of the area.

Ostuni, Puglia

The white town of Ostuni in Puglia, the heel of Italy, is a fantastic town to visit any time of the year but obviously, spring is the best time because of the great weather. Even though March is still a little cold, it’s much less crowded than the rest of the spring months April and May so walking around Ostuni’s alleys is more peaceful and pleasant.

What to book ahead for Italy in March

• International flights. March is not Italy’s highest season but tourists are starting to flock, so if you are limited in your options and this is really the only time you can take your vacation, I recommend booking your airplane ticket well in advance to avoid surprises. If you have served your country, check out the potential military travel discounts on airlines and even hotel chains.
• Domestic travel. The same applies to domestic travel, be it trains or flights. Check out the different railway companies and airlines for availability and prices and make your itinerary ahead of time.
• Hotels. While cities like Rome and Florence have a large choice of hotels so if you can’t find a room in one you can easily switch to another, smaller towns might have fewer options, and booking early is your best bet.
• Restaurants. This is more recommended on days when you can predict some crowds such as Women’s Day or weekends.
• Famous landmarks. Sights like the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and Brunelleschi’s Dome in Florence can get very busy, especially on weekends. Book ahead online to secure your spot.
• Tickets to events. If you are planning to attend important events such as Perugia’s Eurochocolate, booking your tickets ahead is a good idea. They are very crowded and don’t want to wait in vain in line.

What to pack for Italy in March

• Travel documents. If you are from the European Union, your national ID paper will be enough. If you are coming from another continent, your passport is required, and a visa, too, depending on your nationality.
• Umbrella. Don’t forget to pack a foldable umbrella to carry around with you during the day.
• Backpack/crossbody bag. Handy to carry your valuables. A crossbody bag is a better option if you are visiting landmarks like the Colosseum where backpacks are not allowed.
• Camera. Italy is very picturesque, don’t forget your best camera!
• Reusable water bottle. This is very handy to refill with drinkable water from your hotel or restaurant so that you don’t have to buy a new one every time. Tap water in Italy is safe and good, so you can refill your bottle wherever you are.
• Creams and skincare products. Not always hotels include face creams and skincare products so better you pack your own.
• Medicines. In Italian pharmacies, you are going to find everything, but if you need medicines that require a prescription, I suggest you pack them from home as pharmacies might not be allowed to give them to you.

What to wear in March in Italy

• Underwear tops. These are great for layering, crucial in Italy in March.
• Sweaters/jumpers. March in Italy still requires heavy clothing, so sweaters and jumpers are the way to go.
• Long-sleeve tops. Wearing a top underneath your sweater is also great for layering, the secret to a comfortable trip to Italy in March.
• Winter coat or jacket. The warm season is coming but it’s not here yet, so a coat or winter jacket is still necessary, especially in the evening but sometimes also during the day. Also, keep in mind that the weather changes depending on the region and the north is always colder than the south.
• Lighter jacket. When outside it’s warm and sunny, particularly in the early afternoon, a light jacket might be preferable to a heavy coat.
• Walking shoes. A must wherever in Italy you go.
• Ankle boots. An extra pair of shoes is recommended and since it might rain, ankle boots are a good choice.
• Socks/tights. Not really time for barefoot sandals, so socks are necessary, or tights if you wear a skirt.
• Warm trousers. Very warm days at the end of the month might call for light spring trousers, but early days in northern regions still require wool or heavy cotton trousers.
• Hat and scarf. I suggest you pack a hat and a scarf to be sure. I use them all the way through May.
• Sunglasses. That’s right, the sun starts to be bright enough to make sunglasses a necessary item to pack.

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• Destinations Travel

The Best of Italy in March – Weather, Activities, and Travel Tips

• Mar 22, 2024

Wondering what it would be like to explore Italy in March ?

With its delightful weather, lower prices, fewer crowds, and an array of cultural events, March is a perfect time to explore this beautiful country.

In this article, I’ll tell you:

• Why March is the perfect time to explore Italy
• Top destinations to visit during this time.
• Exciting outdoor activities and adventures
• Essential travel tips if you go in March
• Italian cuisine and seasonal delights

Key Takeaways

• Besides the cool weather, March is also a f estive time in Italy . One highlight festive experience is the La Festa della Donna, International Women’s Day on March 8th. It’s the perfect day to visit famous Italian cities supporting women’s courses. Another is St. Joseph’s Day (one of my favorites).
• While the ski season may be winding down, there’s still plenty of snow at higher altitudes, which makes for excellent skiing conditions. Resorts like Courmayeur and Cervinia and lesser-known ones like La Thuile and Passo Tonale are perfect spots for ski lovers.
• Even though March in Italy is considered a shoulder season, with fewer tourists, booking accommodations and tours early is important (as guided tours, museum visits, and special events can be pretty hectic, and tickets can sell out quickly).

Why March is the Perfect Time

If you’ve ever dreamt of exploring Italy without the scorching heat and throngs of tourists, then March is the right time to plan your trip.

With mild weather ranging from chilly in the north to warmer in the south, Italy in March offers a pleasant escape from the cold winter months.

But that’s not all; visiting during this time of the year also means lower prices and fewer crowds, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and history without feeling overwhelmed. And with events like Carnevale, Easter weekend, and International Women’s Day, you’ll have no shortage of festivities to enjoy.

There are also many places to visit, my top being:

• Amalfi Coast
• Cinque Terre

Weather Benefits

In March, Italy experiences a delightful transition from winter to spring. The March weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from cool in the north to cozy in central Italy.

Southern Italy, on the other hand, boasts the most delightful weather in March, with temperatures often reaching up to 15°C (59°F) . This means you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors without the extreme heat or cold.

Remember that cooler weather can still be unpredictable in March when planning your trip, so it’s essential to pack accordingly. Layering your clothes and bringing a waterproof jacket will ensure you’re prepared for any changes in temperature or unexpected rainy days.

Lower Prices and Fewer Crowds

One of the many perks of visiting Italy in early spring is the lower prices of accommodations and attractions. Since March is considered the shoulder season, you can often find great deals on hotels and hostels, making it easier to plan your dream trip without breaking the bank.

In addition to the cost savings, visiting around March means fewer crowds at popular attractions. This allows you to explore iconic sites like the Colosseum and Piazza San Marco more leisurely, without having to navigate through hordes of other tourists.

With fewer crowds and lower prices, you can also take advantage of the opportunity to plan day trips to nearby cities or attractions, further enriching your Italian experience. Just remember to book your accommodations and attractions in advance, as popular events and festivals in March can still attract many visitors.

Take advantage of March’s Perks by visiting Siena. One of the best destinations I enjoyed exploring. On a solo trip, I Started at Piazza del Campo, enjoyed coffee while people-watching. Explored the stunning Siena Cathedral and climbed Torre del Mangia for killer views. Wandered through medieval streets, checked out Contrada museums, and indulged in delicious Tuscan cuisine . The city’s divided into unique neighborhoods, each with its vibe. Tried local dishes at a cozy trattoria. Wrapped up the day at Fortezza Medicea, watching the sunset. Siena’s charm is unreal, especially without the crowds. Highly recommend it for a solo adventure – historical, cultural, and filled with delightful surprises! – Luca

Cultural Events and Festivals

March in Italy is a month filled with cultural events and festivals, adding a touch of excitement and vibrancy to your visit.

From the joyous celebration of Carnevale in early March to the beauty of Easter weekend, something always happens in Italy.

One particularly noteworthy event is International Women’s Day (La Festa della Donna), celebrated on March 8th. This day honors the incredible progress women have made in various fields.

Here’s how to make the most of La Festa della Donna: Start your day by checking online for local International Women’s Day events or marches in cities like Rome or Florence. Plan your route and make sure to have comfortable walking shoes and a refillable water bottle . Visit museums or galleries featuring female artists or exhibits on women’s history, and consider purchasing souvenirs to support women-owned businesses. Opt for public transportation or walking to reduce your carbon footprint. Engage in meaningful conversations with locals about women’s issues and achievements and exchange contact information for future connections. End the day with a relaxing meal at a female-run restaurant, savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine while reflecting on the day’s experiences. – Luca

Another popular event in March is the Rome Marathon, an exhilarating race held in the heart of Rome.

Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, the Rome Marathon is a thrilling experience not to be missed.

Top Destinations to Visit in Early Spring

Now that we’ve established why March is a good time to visit Italy let’s explore some of the top destinations during this perhaps unusual month.

Regardless of whether you choose Rome or Venice, early spring offers every traveler a diverse range of experiences. My must-visit destinations at this time of the year include Rome, Florence, Venice, and Sicily.

Each of these cities in northern Italy offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them the perfect stops on your Italian adventure and potential candidates for a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Rome in March

Rome is no less breathtaking in March than in May or June. As the city transitions from winter to spring, the streets come alive with blooming flowers and pleasant weather.

This is the perfect time to explore Rome’s historical sites , such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

With fewer crowds and mild temperatures, you can wander through the ancient ruins and imagine life in the Eternal City centuries ago.

In addition to the outdoor attractions, Rome also offers many indoor experiences to enjoy during your visit. St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican City Museums, and the Sistine Chapel are just a few of the incredible places you can explore in Rome during March.

And don’t forget to try some delicious Italian cuisine at one of the many local restaurants and trattorias 🙂

Here’s one helpful video I found recently:

Florence: Art, Culture, and Countryside

Florence in March is truly a feast for the senses. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, the city is home to some of the world’s most incredible art and architecture.

There’s no shortage of cultural experiences to be had in Florence, but I’ll recommend starting by checking out the stunning Duomo and Uffizi Gallery. -Luca

And, with the arrival of spring, the city’s picturesque streets and piazzas are bathed in warm sunlight, making it the perfect time to stroll through the historic center and take in the beauty of this enchanting city.

But Florence isn’t just about art and architecture. The surrounding countryside is equally captivating, with rolling hills and charming vineyards waiting to be explored.

Consider taking a day trip to the nearby towns of Siena or San Gimignano, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and sample some of the delicious local wines.

Venice: Canals and Islands

Venice in March is a dream come true, and the enchanting atmosphere continues into early April. With fewer tourists crowding the city’s narrow streets and iconic bridges, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the magic of Venice at a more relaxed pace.

The winding canals and stunning architecture provide the perfect backdrop for strolls and romantic gondola rides. And with the arrival of spring, the city’s many outdoor cafes and restaurants come alive, offering the perfect spot to enjoy a cappuccino or a glass of wine while taking in the sights.

But Venice isn’t just about the canals. The city is also home to several beautiful islands, each with its unique charm and history. Take a day trip to Murano, famous for its exquisite glassmaking, or visit Burano, where you’ll find colorful houses and intricate lacework.

No matter where you choose to explore, Venice in March will capture your heart.

Sicily: History and Warmth

Sicily in March is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its unique history and rich cultural heritage, Sicily offers many experiences for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the past (ancient Agrigento ruins or stunning Villa Romana del Casale mosaics immediately come to mind).

In addition to its historical sites, Sicily is known for its warm and welcoming climate. In March, temperatures in Sicily are pleasantly warm, making it the perfect time to explore the island’s beautiful beaches and rugged coastline.

With fewer tourists visiting during this time, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Sicily’s enchanting towns and villages without much hassle.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures in Italy in March

With its diverse landscape and pleasant weather, Italy offers a range of outdoor activities and adventures for travelers visiting in March. From hiking through picturesque countryside to skiing in the majestic Alps, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a March trip to Italy.

Let me share some of the best outdoor activities available in Italy during March.

Hiking and Trekking

March is a fantastic time for hiking and trekking in Italy, with abundant trails and paths throughout the country.

You can consider stunning Dolomites in the north, or the rolling hills of Tuscany – I guarantee there’s a trail to suit every level of experience and fitness.

With the arrival of spring, the countryside comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making for a genuinely picturesque hiking experience.

When planning your hiking adventure, be sure to:

• Check the weather conditions and pack accordingly.
• Layer your clothing and bring a waterproof jacket to ensure you’re prepared for any changes in temperature or unexpected rainfall.
• Pack water and snacks , so you feel energized throughout your hike.

Skiing in the Alps

For winter sports enthusiasts, March is a great time to hit the slopes in the Italian Alps. While the ski season may be winding down, there’s still plenty of snow in the higher altitudes, making for excellent skiing conditions.

If you have budget, a world-class resorts of Courmayeur and Cervinia are worth checking out. My favorite, however, are the lesser-known gems such as La Thuile or Passo Tonale. -Luca

When planning your ski trip, check the snow conditions and weather forecasts before heading out. This will help ensure you have the best possible experience on the slopes.

Of course, don’t forget to pack warm clothing and any necessary ski equipment, as temperatures in the Alps can still be quite chilly in March.

City Walking Tours

City walking tours are a popular activity in Italy in March, allowing visitors to explore the country’s beautiful cities at a leisurely pace.

With fewer crowds and pleasant weather, this is the perfect time to wander through Italy’s historic streets and enjoy the stunning architecture and vibrant culture. Some of the fantastic sights to see during a city walking tour include:

• The ancient ruins of Rome
• The picturesque canals of Venice
• The Renaissance art in Florence
• The charming streets of Siena
• The historic center of Naples

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Italy’s cities on foot during this time of year.

TIP: Consider booking a guided tour with a local expert to make the most of your city walking tour. This will ensure that you don’t miss out on any important landmarks and provide you with fascinating insights into the history and culture of the city you’re exploring. -Luca

With so many incredible cities across the country, you’re sure to find a walking tour that captures your imagination and leaves you with lasting memories of your time in Italy.

Helpful Travel Tips

It’s essential to be prepared and plan ahead to make your trip to Italy in March as enjoyable as possible.

To help you prepare better, I’m share some good travel tips below, including packing essentials, transportation options, and booking accommodations and attractions.

Packing Essentials

When packing for your trip to Italy in early spring, it’s important to consider the unpredictable weather and pack accordingly.

As I mentioned earlier, layering your clothes is essential, as temperatures can vary greatly from day to day. Be sure to:

• bring a waterproof jacket or raincoat
• hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes or waterproof boots (especially if you plan to visit the countryside).

In addition to clothing, be sure to pack:

• Necessary travel documents, such as your passport and travel insurance
• A charger for your electronic devices
• A travel adapter
• Any necessary medications

Transportation Options

Transportation options include:

• Trains : a popular and efficient way to travel between cities, with frequent services and comfortable seating.
• Buses : an option for those looking to save money, although they may be less comfortable and slower than trains.
• Car rentals : an excellent choice for those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace, allowing you to visit smaller towns and villages that may not be accessible by public transportation.

Boat travel is also possible in Italy during March, although schedules may be reduced due to the shoulder season.

Be sure to check local ferry timetables and plan your trips accordingly. And don’t forget to book your transportation in advance, as popular routes can fill up quickly, especially during popular events and festivals.

Booking Accommodations and Attractions

Booking accommodations and attractions in advance is highly recommended for March travel in Italy, especially during popular events and festivals.

With fewer crowds and lower prices, you’ll have more options when choosing accommodations, whether you prefer a luxurious hotel, a charming bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel. You can secure the best deals and avoid disappointment by booking in advance.

Similarly, booking attractions and activities in advance is essential, as popular sites can become busy, even during the shoulder season. This is particularly important for guided tours, museum visits, and special events, as tickets can sell out quickly.

By planning and reserving your accommodations and attractions, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a seamless and stress-free trip to Italy in March.

Italian Cuisine and Seasonal Delights in March

Experiencing Italy’s delicious cuisine is essential to any trip to this beautiful country. In March, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in various seasonal dishes and treats, showcasing the best of Italian culinary traditions.

Seasonal Produce

Italy is known for its fresh, seasonal produce; March is no exception.

During this time, you’ll find an abundance of artichokes, asparagus, and citrus fruits, all bursting with flavor and perfect for creating delicious dishes.

In addition to enjoying fresh produce in your meals, consider taking a cooking class or attending a food festival to learn more about Italy’s culinary traditions and techniques. This will help you better appreciate the flavors and ingredients that make Italian cuisine so beloved!

Traditional Dishes and Treats

March in Italy offers a variety of traditional dishes and treats for you to savor, especially during the holy week. One such treat is zeppole, a delicious pastry traditionally enjoyed on St. Joseph’s Day .

These scrumptious pastries are often filled with sweet cream or custard and dusted with powdered sugar, making them a delightful indulgence. Additionally, you’ll find various Easter specialties, such as succulent roast lamb, colomba (a dove-shaped cake) , and pastiera (a wheatberry cake), all of which add a festive touch to your culinary experience.

In conclusion, Italy in March offers a delightful mix of pleasant weather, lower prices, fewer crowds, and an array of cultural events and festivals. With so much to see, do, and taste, this is the perfect time to explore Italy’s beautiful cities, stunning countryside, and rich culinary traditions.

I hope this guide has provided helpful insights and tips for planning your unforgettable trip. Buon viaggio!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is march a good time to go to italy.

Absolutely. March offers a pleasant climate with milder temperatures, fewer tourists, and the chance to experience Italy without the summer crowds.

How cold will it be in Italy in March?

Italy enjoys mild temperatures in March, with averages ranging from 35-60°F (2-16°C) across the country. Northern Italy usually stays a bit cooler than Central or Southern Italy, but temperatures remain pleasant and mild throughout the month.

Are accommodations and attractions cheaper in Italy then?

Yes! Accommodations and attractions in Italy are typically cheaper in March, since it is considered the shoulder season.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy at this time of the year?

March is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities in Italy, such as hiking, skiing in the Alps, running (Rome Marathon!) and city walking tours.

What are some traditional Italian dishes to try during this time?

March is the perfect time to try traditional Italian dishes, such as zeppole for St. Joseph’s Day and various Easter specialties!

Before You Leave, Read This:

• Is Bolzano Worth Visiting? A Practical Guide to the Capital of Alto Adige
• Asti in Italy’s Piedmont Region: 15 Must-See Attractions
• The Feast of San Giuseppe (St. Joseph Day)
• Easter Doves – Homemade Colomba Pasquale

Related Articles:

Exploring The Wines of Liguria: Cinque Terre and Beyond

Exploring the Wines of Veneto and All The Region Has To Offer

Italian Marche Wine Region: A Vintner’s Paradise

Wines of Calabria Region – A Practical Guide

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Discover the Magic of Italy in March: Your Ultimate Guide

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: December 6, 2023
• Post category: Italy

March in Italy is a magical time to visit. As a shoulder season, it offers the perfect balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices. While the temperatures can vary across different regions, ranging from chilly to balmy, it’s an ideal time to explore both indoor attractions and outdoor beauty.

Whether you’re interested in the historic streets of Rome , the scenic landscapes of Tuscany, the coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast , or the cultural immersion in Sicily, Italy in March has something for everyone. Embrace the unpredictable weather, immerse yourself in local festivals, and discover the charm of Italy in spring .

Key Takeaways:

• March in Italy is considered a shoulder season, offering milder weather and fewer crowds.
• Temperatures in different regions range from chilly to balmy, making it a great time for indoor attractions and outdoor exploration.
• Italy in March provides a diverse range of experiences, from historic cities and cultural events to scenic landscapes and coastal beauty.
• Be aware of holidays like Carnival and Easter, which can bring increased tourism and higher prices in certain areas.
• Pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures and embrace the beauty of Italy in March .

Weather in Italy in March

In March, Italy experiences a transition from winter to spring, making it an exciting time to visit. The weather in Italy varies depending on the region, but overall, it is considered mild. The average temperatures range from 35-60°F (2-16°C) in different parts of the country. Northern Italy tends to be colder, while southern Italy is relatively warmer. It’s important to pack layers and be prepared for possible rain.

March in Italy is a great time to explore indoor attractions and museums. With the milder weather, you can comfortably stroll through art galleries, visit historical sites, and marvel at the architectural wonders of Italy. Additionally, March brings the blossoming of flowers in outdoor spaces like gardens and parks, adding to the scenic beauty of the country.

While the weather can be unpredictable, March offers a unique travel experience in Italy. With fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season, you can enjoy a more relaxed and immersive journey. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history, or simply savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine, the mild weather in Italy in March provides the perfect backdrop for your adventures.

Holidays & Festivals in Italy in March

March in Italy is a time of celebration and cultural immersion, as the country comes alive with holidays and festivals. Two major holidays that can fall in March are Carnival and Easter. Carnival, known as Carnevale in Italian, is a vibrant and colorful event that often begins in February and extends into March. It is celebrated with parades, costume parties, and street performances in cities like Venice , Viareggio, and Ivrea. Easter, a moving holiday, sometimes falls in late March and is a significant religious celebration marked with processions, special church services, and traditional feasts.

Aside from Carnival and Easter, there are other festivals that take place in March, offering unique cultural experiences. International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8th, is a day to honor and appreciate women’s achievements and contributions. This day is marked by various events, concerts, and exhibitions across Italy. Another notable festival in March is Saint Joseph’s Day, celebrated on March 19th. It is a religious holiday dedicated to Saint Joseph, and in Sicily, it is celebrated with street processions, feasts, and the creation of elaborate and intricate altars.

In addition to these holidays, March in Italy offers various other events and activities. The Open Monuments Weekend takes place in March, providing access to usually closed monuments, palaces, and archaeological sites. It is a unique opportunity to explore Italy’s rich heritage and history. Wine conferences, marathons, and other cultural events can also be found throughout the country in March, adding to the excitement and diversity of the travel experience.

Why Visit Italy in March?

March can be an ideal time to visit Italy for several reasons. Firstly, it’s considered a shoulder season, meaning there are fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience. Additionally, prices for flights and accommodations are typically lower, making it a budget-friendly choice. If you’re interested in indoor attractions such as museums and shopping, March is a great time to explore without the summer heat or the winter chill. However, it’s important to be aware of holidays like Carnival and Easter, which can bring higher prices and larger crowds in certain areas.

Aside from the practical benefits, visiting Italy in March also offers unique experiences. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 35-60°F (2-16°C) in different parts of the country. This makes it pleasant for outdoor activities like exploring the charming streets of Rome, hiking along the picturesque Amalfi Coast, or immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of Tuscany. March is also a month filled with cultural celebrations and festivals, adding vibrancy to your travel experience. Whether it’s witnessing the colorful Carnival festivities or attending local events like the Open Monuments Weekend, there’s always something exciting happening in Italy in March.

Moreover, visiting Italy in March allows you to enjoy the country’s iconic attractions without the crowds. Popular landmarks such as the Colosseum in Rome or the leaning tower of Pisa are more accessible, giving you the chance to fully appreciate their historical significance. You can also indulge in Italy’s renowned cuisine and wine without long waiting times at restaurants. Whether you’re savoring a traditional pasta dish in a local trattoria or exploring the flavors of Sicilian street food, March offers a more intimate dining experience. Overall, visiting Italy in March combines affordability, pleasant weather, and cultural richness, making it a delightful time to explore this captivating country.

Exploring Tuscany in March

Tuscany, located in central Italy, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of picturesque landscapes, historic cities, and delicious cuisine. Visiting Tuscany in March offers a unique experience, as the region begins to awaken from winter and showcases its natural beauty.

The mild weather in March makes it an ideal time to explore the enchanting cities of Florence , Siena , and Pisa without the summer crowds. You’ll have the opportunity to visit iconic attractions such as the majestic Duomo in Florence, the historic Piazza del Campo in Siena, and the leaning tower of Pisa. The charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture of these cities create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for leisurely strolls and immersing yourself in the rich history of Tuscany.

One of the highlights of visiting Tuscany in March is witnessing the blossoming of flowers and the vibrant colors that adorn the region’s countryside. The rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves come to life, creating breathtaking landscapes that are a delight for nature lovers and photographers. Exploring the countryside on foot or by bike allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of Tuscany in its early spring splendor.

Table: Festivals and Events in Tuscany in March

During your visit to Tuscany in March , you can also immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in festivals and events. Festa di San Giovanni Decollato in Florence celebrates the city’s patron saint with processions, historical reenactments, and traditional food. Festa di San Giuseppe in Siena honors Saint Joseph with parades and street performances. These festive occasions provide a glimpse into the traditions and customs of Tuscany.

In summary, March is a wonderful time to explore Tuscany. From the historic cities to the breathtaking countryside, there is something for every traveler. Whether you’re indulging in the art and culture of Florence, savoring the iconic Tuscan cuisine, or simply taking in the scenic landscapes, Tuscany in March offers a unique and memorable experience.

Discovering Rome in March

March is the perfect time to explore the eternal city of Rome. With mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season, you can enjoy the iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed. From visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum to exploring the Vatican City, there are plenty of things to do and see in Rome in March .

One of the highlights of March in Rome is the annual Marathon, which attracts runners from around the world. You can witness the excitement and energy as participants race through the historic streets of the city. Additionally, Rome celebrates Saint Joseph’s Day in March, with festivals, markets, and cultural events taking place throughout the city. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions and experience the vibrant spirit of Rome.

March is also a time when the city’s parks and gardens come alive with the blooming of flowers. You can take leisurely strolls through the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese or enjoy the panoramic views from the Janiculum Hill. The mild temperatures make outdoor sightseeing pleasant, and you can take your time exploring the city’s many hidden gems.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere of the city, Rome in March offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of the eternal city.

Coastal Beauty in Amalfi Coast in March

Visiting the Amalfi Coast in March offers a more tranquil experience, as it is considered the shoulder season with fewer tourists compared to the summer months. While swimming and sunbathing may not be ideal due to the weather, there are still plenty of reasons to explore this stunning region.

The mild temperatures in March make it an ideal time for scenic hikes along the rugged coastline, allowing you to appreciate the dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns. The charming coastal towns of Positano , Amalfi, and Ravello can be explored without the crowds, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in their beauty. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets, admiring the colorful houses, or indulging in the delicious local cuisine, the Amalfi Coast in March offers a slower pace and a chance to savor the coastal charm.

“The Amalfi Coast is a place where the beauty of nature meets the enchantment of history. Exploring it in March allows you to truly appreciate its unique allure without the bustling crowds.”

One of the highlights of the Amalfi Coast is the world-famous Path of the Gods , a scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the azure Mediterranean Sea. March provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities, allowing you to embark on this unforgettable adventure. Additionally, you can visit the iconic Amalfi Cathedral, stroll through the lemon groves of Sorrento, or take a boat tour to the stunning island of Capri.

Table: Average Temperatures in Amalfi Coast in March

As shown in the table, the average temperatures in the Amalfi Coast range from 58-61°F (14-16°C) during March. While it may be slightly cooler, the mild weather allows for comfortable exploration and outdoor activities. Just be sure to pack layers and a light jacket to stay prepared for changing temperatures.

Overall, visiting the Amalfi Coast in March offers a chance to experience its coastal beauty in a more peaceful setting. Whether you’re captivated by the stunning landscapes, enchanted by the charming towns, or simply seeking a serene getaway, the Amalfi Coast in March is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Cultural Immersion in Sicily in March

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. In March, the island experiences mild temperatures, making it an excellent time to explore its cities, archaeological sites, and landscapes. Places like Palermo, Taormina, and Siracusa come alive with festivals and events. You can visit ancient ruins, medieval towns, and sample the local cuisine. Sicily’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic Mount Etna to beautiful beaches, offer opportunities for outdoor activities. March allows for a cultural immersion in Sicilian traditions, history, and scenery.

Immerse in Sicilian Festivals

Sicily in March is a time of vibrant festivals and events that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage. One of the most famous is the Feast of Saint Joseph, celebrated on March 19th. The city of Salemi in western Sicily hosts a grand procession and prepares traditional sweets known as “cuddureddi” in honor of Saint Joseph. Another notable festival is the “Infiorata” in Noto, where the streets are adorned with intricate flower carpets, creating a colorful and fragrant spectacle. These festivals provide a unique opportunity to witness Sicilian traditions and customs up close.

In addition to the cultural experiences, Sicily’s natural beauty shines in March. The countryside bursts with vibrant colors as flowers bloom across the landscapes. It’s the perfect time to explore the scenic coastal areas, take leisurely hikes through the countryside, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. Sicily’s diverse cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood, delicious pastries, and unique regional dishes awaiting discovery.

Whether you’re intrigued by ancient history, fascinated by cultural traditions, or simply drawn to the beauty of nature, Sicily in March offers a captivating journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

March Travel Tips for Italy

Traveling to Italy in March offers a unique experience, with milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. To make the most of your trip, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

Be Prepared for Variable Weather

March in Italy is a transition period, so the weather can be variable. It’s important to pack layers and be prepared for changing temperatures. While some days may be mild and sunny, others can be chilly and damp. Checking the forecast before your trip can help you plan accordingly.

Awareness of Holidays and Festivals

Although March is considered a shoulder season, be aware of holidays and festivals that can bring increased tourism and crowds to certain areas. Carnival and Easter, in particular, can lead to higher prices and larger crowds. Booking accommodations and attractions in advance is recommended to secure availability and potentially save money.

Explore Indoor Attractions and Cultural Events

March is a great time to explore Italy’s indoor attractions, such as museums and galleries, without the summer heat or winter chill. Many cities also host cultural events and festivals during this month, providing opportunities to immerse in the local culture. Embrace the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Italy during the shoulder season.

By following these travel tips, you can have a memorable and enjoyable experience exploring Italy in March. Whether you’re visiting Tuscany, Rome, the Amalfi Coast, or Sicily, embrace the beauty of Italy in spring and discover all that this wonderful country has to offer.

Embracing the Beauty of Italy in March

Italy in March offers a chance to embrace the country’s beauty without the peak tourist season crowds. From the magical landscapes of Tuscany to the historic sites of Rome, there is something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in art and culture, delicious cuisine, or scenic coastlines, Italy in March provides a diverse range of experiences.

Take advantage of the milder weather and explore the indoor attractions, museums, and galleries. Immerse yourself in local festivals and events. Embrace the charm of Italy in spring , with blooming flowers and vibrant atmospheres in every city and town.

“Italy in March is a hidden gem for travelers looking for an authentic experience. With fewer crowds, you have the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the locals. From sipping espresso at a local café to exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, March travel in Italy is full of surprises and discoveries.” – Travel enthusiast

The Must-See Destinations in Italy in March

• Tuscany: Explore the enchanting landscapes, visit the art masterpieces in Florence, and indulge in the finest wines and local delicacies.
• Rome: Discover the ancient ruins, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Eternal City.
• Amalfi Coast: Take in the breathtaking coastal views, explore the charming towns, and savor the fresh seafood.
• Sicily: Immerse yourself in the rich history, visit the impressive archaeological sites, and enjoy the unique blend of flavors in Sicilian cuisine.

March is the best time to visit Italy for an unforgettable travel experience. With mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant festivals, it offers the perfect balance of affordability and local immersion. Whether you choose to explore the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany, the historic sites of Rome , the coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast , or the cultural richness of Sicily , Italy in March has something for everyone.

One of the key Italy travel tips for March is to pack layers to adapt to the variable weather. While the temperatures range from 35-60°F (2-16°C) in different regions, it’s important to be prepared for possible rain and fluctuating temperatures. It’s also advisable to check the forecast and book accommodations and attractions in advance, especially during holidays like Carnival and Easter.

Embrace the charm of Italy in spring by exploring indoor attractions, museums, and galleries. Immerse yourself in the local festivals and events that make Italy come alive during this time of the year. From the art and culture to the delicious cuisine and picturesque coastlines, Italy in March is a delightful blend of beauty and authenticity.

So, pack your bags, get ready to embrace the unpredictable weather, and embark on an incredible journey to discover the magic of Italy in March – the best time to visit this captivating country.

What is the weather like in Italy in March?

In March, the weather in Italy can vary, ranging from chilly and damp to balmy by the end of the month. The average temperatures in different regions of Italy in March are: Northern Italy: 35-55°F (2-13°C), Central Italy: 45-60°F (7-16°C), and Southern Italy: 50-60°F (10-16°C).

Is March a good time to visit Italy?

March is considered a shoulder season in Italy, which means it’s one of the best times to visit. The weather is mild, prices are lower, and crowds are less dense compared to the high season.

Are there any holidays or festivals in Italy in March?

Yes, Italy celebrates holidays like Carnival and Easter in March. These holidays can bring increased tourism and celebration, leading to higher prices and larger crowds in certain areas. Other festivals like International Women’s Day and Saint Joseph’s Day also take place in March.

Why should I visit Italy in March?

March in Italy offers several advantages for travelers. It’s a shoulder season with fewer crowds, lower prices, and mild weather. It’s a great time to explore indoor attractions and museums without the summer heat or winter chill.

What are some recommended destinations to visit in Italy in March?

Tuscany, Rome, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily are popular destinations to visit in Italy in March. Tuscany offers beautiful landscapes and less crowded cities like Florence and Siena. Rome allows for outdoor sightseeing and hosts festivals and events. The Amalfi Coast provides a tranquil experience with scenic hikes along the coastline, while Sicily offers a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Any travel tips for visiting Italy in March?

When visiting Italy in March, it’s important to be prepared for variable weather and pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Check the forecast before your trip. Be aware of holidays like Carnival and Easter that may impact prices and crowds. Booking accommodations and attractions in advance is recommended. Embrace the indoor attractions and cultural events that Italy offers during the shoulder season.

What makes Italy in March special?

Italy in March combines the best of both worlds – affordable prices and a chance to fully immerse in the local atmosphere. The mild weather allows for outdoor exploration and enjoying the beauty of the country. Festivals and events add vibrancy to the travel experience, and the blooming of flowers adds charm to the landscapes.

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Italy in March – Where to Go + Weather 2024

Updated January 5, 2024

// By Margherita

Hello everyone! Welcome to a new series where we tell you all about our beloved country in all months of the year. Let’s start with Italy in March – where to go, weather info and best events! UPDATED JAN 2024

The secret has been out for a while – Spring is the best time to visit Italy! However, in Spring there are many festivities and bank holidays that can make top destinations really crowded. 

So, what about Italy in March? Well, technically most of March is still winter, but normally from mid-February onwards the weather starts to warm up , the days get longer and sunnier, and the ‘winter’ atmosphere slowly fades away.

To sum up, March marks the start of shoulder season, and it is a great time to visit Italy!

It’s still a good time to go skiing , and a wonderful time to visit cities , with only a fraction of visitors found in the warmer months. It’s also a good time to hike at lower altitudes, but it’s still too chilly to go to the beach. 

Let’s have a closer look at March weather in Italy , before moving on to what to visit, and the best festivals and events!

Weather in March in Italy

In Italy, March is the month when the weather starts taking a turn for the best, after months of wintry cold, rain and fog.

Now, when talking about weather in Italy, don’t forget that the country is really big, measuring approximately 1200 km from north to south. So, the weather changes dramatically from the Alps to Sicily, but we’ll do our best to provide a summary!

In northern Italy , average max temperatures in March are about 10°C, dipping to around 6°C at night. You may also encounter some rainy days, but the weather will be markedly warmer compared to winter, especially later in the month.

In the Alps , temperatures often stay below freezing, and it’s still a good time to ski – resorts typically close in late April. 

In Southern Italy , March offers typically Spring temperatures, with maximum around 16/20°C depending on where you go. It may still be too cold to go to the beach, but just the right temperature to go hiking or sightseeing around cities. 

Also, summer daylight saving generally comes into effect in Italy on the last weekend in March. As a result, the sun sets as late as 8 pm by the end of the month!

Where to Go in March in Italy

1) the dolomites .

March is great month to go skiing in Italy. The busiest months for skiing are typically January and February, so by March most of the crowds have gone – however, the snow may be a little more icy compared to earlier in the season. 

One of the best places to ski in Italy is Dolomiti Superski , a mammoth resort with 1200 km of slopes, connecting 12 ski areas, with options for everyone from beginners to daredevils.

You can easily access Dolomiti Superski from Cortina d’Ampezzo , Vigo di Fassa, Arabba and several more towns in the Trentino/Bolzano area, and with one ski pass you can ski wherever you like. 

If you are not into skiing, the Dolomites are still a wonderful place to explore in March – there should still be snow, allowing for stunning snowshoe or winter hikes. For that, we recommend the Seiser Alm area , a plateau where you can enjoy great views without the need to hike uphill!

Book your Dolomites tours here!

• Heart of the Dolomites: Full Day Tour by Car
• Dolomites Snowshoe Tour Near Cortina
• Dolomites Full Day Tour From Lake Garda

2) Valtellina

The Dolomites are wonderful, but they can busy, even in March. Another great skiing destination is Valtellina , not far from the Swiss border to the north of Milan. The best ski resort is Bormio , with slopes as high as 3000 meters, and historic baths dating back to Roman times for a post-ski soak. 

Another wonderful destination in Valtellina is Livigno , a town hidden away in a remote valley surrounded by mountains on all sides. It is also known as ‘Little Tibet’ due to the amount of snow it gets, and being close to the Swiss border, it’s also a tax free zone – shopping lovers, take note!

Let’s move away from the mountains and to one of Italy’s most beloved destinations – Venice.

Now, you all know that Venice is busy year round – spring and summer are high season, and winter also gets busy with Carnival celebrations. However, depending on when Carnival falls, by March celebrations may be over – allowing locals to enjoy a blissful tourist-free Venice until arrivals resume for Easter. 

If Venice is still too busy for you, why not go cycling in the Venetian Lagoon , or take a day trip to one of the lesser-known surrounding islands. Skip touristy Burano for just-as-colourful Mazzorbo , and don’t forget to check out Torcello !

Book your Venice tours here!

• Doge Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica: Skip-The-Line Tour
• Venice: Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Admission Ticket
• Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

Similarly to Venice, March in Rome is generally a pretty good time , with warm spring temperatures and low tourist numbers, which also translate in affordable accommodation.

Midweek you may even find sights like the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum devoid of queues – something you can just dream of the rest of the year. If you are a runner, take note of the Rome Marathon taking place in March – more info in the ‘events’ section below!

Once again, if touristy hotspots are too busy for you (or you’ve seen them already) Rome is full of lesser-known places to explore – Garbatella, Coppedè and Ostiense are some of my favourite neighbourhood.

Book your Rome tours here!

• Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Entry Tickets
• Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket
• Rome: Street Food Tour with Local Guide

March is a wonderful time to explore Southern Italy , including one of my wonderful places in the whole country – Matera . 

Matera is known for its Sassi , entire neighbourhoods of buildings excavated out of the calcareous rock, inhabited since the Paleolithic. The Sassi were once home to the poorest of the poor, but since postwar times they have been renovated and turned into modern homes, and even luxury hotels!

March is a great time to visit as most of the city is built out of pale stone. In summer, the heat is prohibitive, with the sun rays reflecting off the stone and making you feel as if you were in a greenhouse. It can get really hot as early as April/May, so March is just perfect!

Matera is located in Basilicata, not far from the stunning Puglia region, meaning you can easily combine both in one trip.

Book your Matera tours here!

• Matera: Guided Tour of Sassi di Matera
• Matera: Panoramic Tuk-Tuk Tour
• Matera: 007 “No Time to Die” Film Sites Walking Tour

6) Amalfi Coast

Let’s stay in Southern Italy , and explore one of the most beautiful stretches of coast of the entire country – the Amalfi Coast. 

Now, the Amalfi Coast is really a place you don’t want to explore during high season. Villages like Amalfi, Positano and Maiori are perched on hilltops and connected by twisty roads, making traffic and parking a real nightmare. On top of that, beaches along the coast are really tiny, and in summer, they are only accessible to residents.

March in the Amalfi Coast is still blissfully quiet . It’s also the ideal time to go hiking along trails like the Path of Gods – in summer, it gets too hot to hike comfortably. It’s still too cold to swim, but walking or sitting on the beach is also pleasant!

Book your Amalfi Coast tours here!

• From Amalfi Coast: Capri Full-Day Guided Trip
• From Sorrento: Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour
• Amalfi Coast: Boat and Snorkeling Tour in Small Group

Are you looking for sun and warm weather? The best place in Southern Italy to visit in March would definitely be Sicily. As the southernmost Italian region, it’s definitely the place that sees the most sunshine and warmest temperatures, routinely topping 20°C during the day. 

Similarly to other places around the country, March is shoulder season in Sicily , so tourist numbers are low and accommodation prices are at their most affordable. Places like Taormina and Erice , which get really busy in summer, are pleasant to explore, as are places like the Aeolian Islands .

If Easter falls in March, it’s a great time to visit to see Easter parades and celebrations, like the Misteri in Trapani. However, expect prices for transport and accommodation to be more expensive during Easter week, as many locals return home for the festivities.

Also, even though the weather may get really warm in Sicily in March , it would probably be too cold for the beach and swimming – plan your holiday in May or June if that’s what you want! 

Book your Sicily tours here!

• Catania: Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Day Trip with Tasting
• Etna: Guided Trekking Tour to Summit Craters
• From Catania: Valley of the Temples and Turkish Steps

March Events and Festivals in Italy

Carnival .

This celebration takes place just before the beginning of Lent, so the exact date changes from year to year. If Easter falls in late April, Carnival may take place in early March.

Celebrations change depending on where you go in Italy, but generally include parades with floats, people in fancy dress, masked parties and other assorted revelry. 

Some of the best-known Carnival celebrations in the country take place in Venice and Ivrea, home to the popular (and unique) Battle of the Oranges . They are both great events to attend, but expect higher prices and tourist numbers.

San Giuseppe/Father’s Day 

March 19th marks the day of San Giuseppe, which is also Father’s Day in Italy. Children celebrate it by giving gifts to their fathers, and it’s a popular occasion for families to eat out.

On Father’s Day, it’s also common to eat zeppole , fried doughnuts filled with cream and topped with a cherry. If you are visiting Italy in March , definitely pop into a patisserie and order one!

Rome Marathon

Are you a runner? Take note to visit Italy in March to join the Rome Marathon , taking place the fourth Sunday of the month. The course includes most of Rome’s famous sights, ending right in front of the Colosseum. 

Festa della Donna

March 8th is International Women’s Day , known as ‘Festa della Donna’ in Italy. It’s celebrated by giving ladies mimosa flowers, the symbol of the festivity. Ladies also often go out to eat with their friends, and sometimes clubs and restaurants organise special events.

Similarly to Carnival, Easter may fall in late March on some years. Easter traditionally marks the start of high season in tourist destinations around the country, so expect to find higher prices and more people around. 

At the same time, Easter is a good time to visit places organising festivals and parades – find out more in our post about Italy in April !

Looking for more month-by-month Italy guides? There you are!

• Italy in January – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in February – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in May – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in June – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in July – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in August – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in September – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in October – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in November – Where to Go + Weather
• Italy in December – Where to Go + Weather

Italy In Focus

Italy In March: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Italy in March? Here’s everything you need to know, from weather conditions and top attractions to cultural events and travel tips, to make the most of your visit during this time of year.

Although there are frequent weather changes and brief downpours, it’s a peaceful time of year to come and offers plenty of indoor activities, such as visiting museums and cooking courses. 

And while there could be a few raindrops, you’ll probably finish up with a gorgeous spring month filled with sunlight, crisp air, and verdant surroundings.

I can’t help but think back on Italy’s rich history, delicious food, and stunning scenery as we set out to explore the nation in March.

Explore the colorful tapestry that early springtime Italy creates, learning about everything from the climate to the top things to do.

Related Read:

• Italy In January
• Italy In February
• I taly In April
• Ita ly In May
• Ital y In June

What is the Weather like in Italy in March

March is a great season to travel around Italy’s landscapes since the country embraces spring with open arms. Italy begins the change from winter to spring in March, with a slow warming of the weather.

The southern portion of Italy is usually the hottest in March. Due to its milder winters than its northern counterpart, travelers looking for nicer weather during this time of year find southern Italy to be more alluring.

Temperatures in Italy in March

Italy’s average daily temperature in March is between 9°C and 17°C. Nonetheless, there may be notable differences between the country’s northern and southern regions. At 5°C to 14°C on average, temperatures in northern Italy are typically lower.

The center areas have temperatures between 9°C to 16°C. Temperatures in Southern Italy are typically cooler, ranging from 11°C to 18°C on average.

• Italy In Jul y
• Italy In August:
• Italy In September
• Italy In October:
• Italy In November:
• Italy In December

What to Wear in Italy in March

It’s not mandatory to dress like an Italian, but there are certain easy rules to follow if you don’t want to seem like a tourist.

You should absolutely take some decent fundamentals for layering, whether you’re traveling to Rome at the beginning, middle, or end of the month.

These are our best picks for effortlessly stylish Italian attire that is appropriate for both men and women for March.

• Ankle Boots
• Thick Peacoat
• Small messenger bag
• Leather Boots

Dressy clothing is not necessary unless you intend to attend a specific event. You don’t need to bring much if any, evening clothing while traveling to Italy in March because you may dine out at many of Rome’s restaurants in more casual attire.

Where to Stay in Italy in March

There are many different types of accommodation available in Italy to suit your every taste. Discover the top lodging options in Italy for March that will suit both luxury and budget-conscious tourists.

Budget Hotel in Italy

Locanda scirocco.

Location: Corso Garibaldi 117, 91014 Castellammare del Golfo, Italy

Spacious accommodations in a variety of 18th-century structures located in the historic heart of Castellammare Del Golfo are available at Locanda Scirocco . It serves a hearty Sicilian breakfast and offers excellent service.

The Scirocco offers classic décor, a minibar, and private bathrooms in its rooms. There is a kitchenette in each flat.

The Scirocco Locanda serves different breakfasts every day. A cappuccino, freshly prepared pastries as well as Sicilian bread are available for guests to start the day. In the interior courtyard, local wines are offered in both the afternoon and the evening.

Double Room – Annex For 2 +1 (1 night): $42 Price + $3 taxes and fees

Popular Amenities:

• 1 queen bed
• Crib (available on request)
• Air conditioning
• Private Bathroom

Luxury Hotel in Italy

Gh palazzo suite & spa.

Location: Viale Italia, 195, 57127 Livorno, Italy

Grand Hotel Palazzo , which is located on the waterfront, is one of the best 5-star hotels in Italy. It has a rooftop pool and restaurants with expansive views of the sea.

In addition to luxurious rooms with free Wi-Fi, the hotel has a fitness center, a spa with an indoor pool, and a sauna.

Elegant designs and contemporary furniture adorn the rooms. In addition to having air conditioning, each room has a minibar and a hairdryer.

The Grand Hotel Palazzo’s ground-floor breakfast area serves a hearty buffet every day. Traditional Italian food is served at the restaurant on the top level, which also features an excellent wine selection.

Deluxe King Suite For 2 +1 (1 night): $624 Price (Includes taxes and fees)

• Pool with a view
• Rooftop pool

Things to Do in Italy in March

Travelers may take advantage of a variety of events and activities in Italy throughout this month of transition, from its stunning countryside to its ancient towns. Discover the top activities in Italy for March.

Participate in St. Joseph’s Day in March

Celebrated on March 19, St. Joseph’s Day marks one of the oldest popular customs in Sicily. On this particular day, sacred and profane elements coexist because, while it is undoubtedly a day of profound devotion and honor to St. Joseph, it is also a folkloristic feast full of customs and happy occasions.

Naturally, this particular day in Sicily is accompanied by several culinary customs: throughout the festivities, individuals partake in the day’s most well-liked dishes.

Celebrate Easter in Italy

In Italy, Easter, which is usually held in late March, is marked with an entire week of processions along with rituals, Sunday feasting and festivities, and Monday La Pasquetta, or small Easter.

Special sculptures of the Madonna and Christ are frequently brought through the town during solemn processions, with participants dressed in costume.

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

Given the vast number of exceptional works of art and masterpieces the bulk from the Renaissance period preserved within its walls, the Uffizi Gallery is among the most well-known museums in the world.

Great Italian painters’ creations may be seen at the Uffizi Gallery, which is centrally located in Florence. Although a significant portion of its extensive collection comes from the eras between the 12th and 17th centuries, it includes pieces from every century.

We also advise you to think about purchasing museum tickets in advance on their Official Website or scheduling a Guided Tour so you can make the most of the experience if you want to avoid the lines or have a limited amount of time in Florence.

To book this tour click here.

Pay Respect at Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Situated on Duomo Square, the Florence Duomo, also called Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, was designed by renowned architect Arnolfo di Cambio, who was a great admirer of the Gothic style. Development of the cathedral started at the end of the 13th century.

The Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral offers free admission. We recommend that you schedule a Guided Tour in order to fully appreciate the treasures that have been preserved in this magnificent Cathedral.

If you schedule a guided tour of Florence’s Duomo, you may go with a group. Given the small size, Florence’s historic core is readily navigable on foot.

Numerous sites that are open for visitors and serve as reminders of the city’s vibrant artistic and cultural scene may be found around the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore.

To book this t our click here.

Toss a Coin at the Trevi Fountain

One of the most beautiful fountains in the world is the Trevi Fountain, which is situated in Rome’s Quirinale neighborhood.

The enormous Trevi Fountain is over 65 feet wide and 85 feet tall. More than 2,800,000 cubic feet of water are released daily from the fountain thanks to its several water pumps and big pool in front.

This work of art still has a significant impact on Rome’s culture and way of life, making it more than just a historical artifact.

Don’t forget to toss a coin! A depth of personal experience and contact is added for tourists by the well-known custom of tossing a coin into the fountain, which promises a return to Rome and connects them to countless others who have served in the same position throughout centuries of history.

Partake in the Carnevale

Carnevale occurs frequently, though not always in March because of the timing of the Easter vacation. This is one of the biggest events in the whole country, with Venice serving as the hub of festivities.

Attend live events, parades, and music, and see people dressed extravagantly. You should try to make it to the bizarre masquerade parties held at several of the upscale hotels. They are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

Indulge in an Italian Cuisine

It’s the perfect time to enjoy the freshest and most delicious ingredients in Italian recipes since the changing of the seasons not only modifies the atmosphere but also affects the local produce.

March delivers a variety of seasonal delicacies that make their way into Italian kitchens as spring arrives. I suggest visiting Pasta e Vino – Torre Argentina and trying their pasta if you chance to have a lot of time to spend seeing the City of Rome. It’s amazing!

Travel Tips in Italy in March

Italy has something unique to offer, whether you’re taking in the splendor of the countryside, indulging in delicious food, or touring historic towns. Here are some must-know travel advice to help you get the most out of your March trip to Italy.

What to Pack for Italy in March?

It’s important to plan your packing carefully to guarantee a comfortable and happy trip to the country of ancient history, art, and delectable food.

These are a few items you should bring for an amazing March trip to Italy:

• Travel documents
• Skincare products

March in Italy Offers Mild Weather and Blooming Landscape

In Italy, March is when winter ends and spring begins. Even if the weather might change suddenly, pleasant temperatures are usually to be expected, particularly in the southern parts.

Bring layers so you’re ready for any weather, such as a light jacket and sweaters. In addition, March is when the countryside comes alive with blooming flowers, producing charming sights that infuse your excursions with a little enchantment.

Stay Flexible with Itineraries

Even though March often has nice weather, it’s a good idea to be adaptable with your travel schedule. It could be warmer on certain days than on others, and rain showers don’t happen very often.

Your schedule will allow you to adjust to changing weather conditions without sacrificing your experience of the finest of Italy if it includes a combination of indoor and outdoor activities.

Is it Worth it to Visit Italy in March?

One of the nicest times of year to travel to Italy is in March, when the nation transitions from winter to spring.

Though in much of the nation it is feasible to have lunch outside as blossoms return to the trees and balconies, March in Italy is always unpredictable due to the constant threat of rain.

March is an excellent month to visit Italy because the busy season has not yet started, so you will have a fair chance of pleasant weather in addition to lower airfare and accommodation rates.

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Best Places to Visit in Italy in March 2022

March marks the transition between winter and spring and it shows great climatic variability and instability: be prepared to rapidly switch from warm sun to a shower of rain and always bring a wind jacket and a sweater with you!

If Easter is in March, you’d better avoid the most popular destinations, because they tend to get very crowded during that particular week of the year. In March, there are two special events in Italy: Women’s Day (March 8th), when it’s a common habit to offer a mimosa to ladies of any age, and Father’s Day (March 19th) when it’s a popular custom to eat “zeppole” (deep-fried dough filled with custard and sprinkled with icing sugar), especially in Naples and Southern Italy in general.

March is the perfect month for getting active and enjoying the open air after the cold winter. It’s the ideal period for sport and sightseeing.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

Best things to do in Italy in March

1. Your favorite outdoor activity in Riva del Garda (Trentino Alto Adige)

What : Riva del Garda is a small town on Garda Lake in Trentino Alto Adige. It’s a popular mountain destination and it’s especially loved by adventure and nature lovers. Here you can choose among many activities such as trekking, climbing, running, biking, diving, kayaking, and sailing.

What to see: Ponale trail, which is one of the most panoramic trails of the area, the church of S. Barbara, which is perched on top of a high hill, and the Fortress, which is an old castle with a drawbridge it houses an interesting archeological museum.

How long : 4-5 days

Why March : even though it’s still quite cold in the mountains, nature is starting to blossom and it’s nice to be in the open air again after winter.

Weather : the average temperature is 8°C with an alternation of sun and clouds.

Practical tips : have a look at this map showing all the outdoor activities you can do in Riva del Garda 

2. See the famous leaning tower of Pisa (Tuscany)

What: Pisa is one of the main cities of Tuscany and it has become worldwide famous for its iconic leaning tower. The construction works began in 1173, but after having built the first two floors, the tower started to lean on one side.

Since it did not fall, it was decided that it was ok to complete it, but the project went on for almost 2 centuries, due to the huge difficulties in the construction. The gradient has never ceased to increase and periodical maintenance works are needed!

What to see: the beautiful Square of Miracles is rich in monuments! After visiting the leaning tower, don’t miss the Cathedral dedicated to S. Maria Assunta and the Baptistery with its many sculptures. Other interesting spots are the Knights’ Square in Renaissance style and the monumental cemetery, where the most important local figures are buried.

How long : 1 day trip from Florence

Why March : the arrival of spring it’s the perfect period to go sightseeing and visit the main Italian monuments.

Weather : the average temperature is 12°C with sunny weather

Practical tips : the leaning tower is always very crowded and the line is long, so you’d better arrive towards 8.30-9 a.m. to be sure of entering early. A guided tour is also a very good choice to maximize your time in Pisa. If you are not interested in a tour and want to visit the leaning tower you should buy skip the line tickets here. 

You might want to check:  How to spend one day in Pisa. 

3. Enjoy the arrival of spring in Orcia Valley (Tuscany)

What : Orcia Valley is a countryside area in Tuscany which is characterized by hills, cultivated fields, vineyards, and small villages. It was especially celebrated by the painters of the Renaissance period and it became the symbol of idyllic country life.

What to see: among the most picturesque towns you can visit Pienza (romantic and quiet), Montalcino (to taste its renowned wine called Brunello), and Bagno Vignoni (a popular spa resort).

How long: 1 weekend

Why March : because of its mild climate and the beautiful spring landscape. Most tourists go there in summer, so now you can enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Practical tips : stay at a local farmhouse to make the best out of your weekend in the countryside. Choose a location also offering local wine tastings.

4. Visit the historic towns of San Gimignano & Volterra (Tuscany)

What: these medieval towns are often visited together and they are immersed in the beautiful hilly countryside that is typical of this Region. They are both rich in ancient buildings, towers, narrow alleys, and old city walls. They also keep many traces of the Etruscan period.

What to see: the highlights of San Gimignano are the richly decorated cathedral, the nice Piazza della Cisterna, and the panoramic Montestaffoli Fortress. You can start exploring Volterra from Palazzo dei Priori, which is really similar to Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. Don’t miss the Romanic cathedral and the baptistery and save some time to learn more about the Etruscan civilization at the Guarnacci Museum.

How long: 3-4 days

Why March: to enjoy the surrounding hilly landscape and to be able to visit these two gems without the crowds of tourists arriving later in spring.

Practical tips: choose either Pisa or Siena as the starting points of your visit!

You might also like:

• Things to do in Tuscany.
• The best hilltop towns to visit in Tuscany. 

5. Imagine being a king or a queen for a day at the royal palace of Venaria (Piemonte)

What : this was a former residence of the kings of Italy and it is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It is located close to Turin and it was used as a royal hunting reserve. It is really huge: 80.000 square meters of the palace and 60 hectares of park. Here you’ll learn more about the royal lifestyle and you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful and perfectly maintained park.

What to see : the best option to fully enjoy your visit is taking an audio guide, otherwise, you might miss something or get confused. The most important points of interest are the Honor Court with the Water Theater, the Royal Apartments, the Great Gallery, the Royal Stable, and the park with its central canal and its orchard.

How long: 1day trip from Turin

Why March: the orchard in the park blooms towards the end of the month, so it’s a great period for a visit!

Weather : the average temperature is 12°C with many cloudy and windy days

Practical tips : the best way to enjoy your visit is by renting the audio guide, active both indoor and outdoor. For more information check here.  

6. Enjoy the last snow-shoe walk of the season in Gran Paradiso National Park (Piemonte & Valle d’Aosta)

What : Gran Paradiso National Park offers countless spectacular trails for snowshoeing. The best areas are Orco Valley and Serrù Lake, Soana Valley, Cogne Valley, and the Lillaz Waterfall, Rhêmes Valley, and Valsavarenche.

What to see : one of the best spots to see in late winter/early spring is the frozen Lillaz Waterfall. If you like watching wild animals go to Valsavarenche, where you can admire some wild chamois and ibexes.

How long : 1 weekend

Why March: because it’s the last chance of the year to admire the frozen landscapes of this National Park.

Weather : the average temperature is 2°C with frequent snow. Check the weather forecast before planning your walk and beware of possible avalanches.

Practical tips: if you are not an expert, it’s best to go snow-shoeing with a local guide. 

7. Wander around the Old Town of Naples (Campania)

What: the Old Town of Naples is the largest one in Europe and it covers more than 17Km, which is 15% of the entire city. It is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List and it shows many traces of every historical period, from the Greek era to modern times.  

What to see: the best thing to do to immerse yourself in the authentic local atmosphere is just wandering around the narrow alleys and the picturesque streets of the city center. Another great walk is the underground guided tour leading you to discover a real “city below the city” with its many traces of the Greek and Roman periods as long as some pieces of heritage from World War I and II. Don’t miss the Cathedral and its Museum of the Treasure and save some time to visit the mysterious S. Severo Chapel.

Why March : you can find mild and sunny weather and the light on the sea is already summer-like! Spring is the best period to go sightseeing in Southern Italy to avoid hot weather.

Weather: the average temperature is 13°C with sunny weather

Practical tips: if you plan to spend some days in Naples, buy a Naples Pass. It is a prepaid card allowing you free access to public transport and offering several discounts for restaurants, guided tours, and attractions. For more information check here.  

You might be interested in: 

• 3 days in Naples
• Where to stay in Naples by a local. 

8. Enjoy the arrival of spring on Ischia Island (Campania)

What: Ischia is a small volcanic island located in the Gulf of Naples and it is famous for its natural landscapes and its hot springs. Tourists go there every season to enjoy its baths and its mild climate.

What to see: Maronti beach and its fumaroles, Sorgeto’s Baths to enjoy an open-air swim all year round, the view from the top of Aragonese Castle, and the baroque church of S. Maria Assunta.

Why March: the local natural landscape is particularly beautiful in spring. March is also the perfect time of the year to get ready for the sunny season thanks to a relaxing weekend at the spa!

Weather : the average temperature is 13°C with an alternation of sun and clouds.

Practical tips: choose a hotel including a spa and don’t miss the experience of swimming in the sea surrounded by warm water reaching up to 35°!

9. Trekking on Pantelleria Island (Sicily)

What: Pantelleria is located South of Sicily and it’s only 70Km away from the Tunisian coast. It’s a popular destination for adventure lovers thanks to its wild volcanic landscapes and its 500Km of trekking trails.

What to see: the volcanic lake called “The Mirror of Venus”, which is located inside a former crater in the heart of the island. Another popular spot is the Arch of the Elephant, which is a rocky formation reminding of a proboscis and plunging into the sea. If you like wild places reach Benikulà Cave and try its natural hot steam directly coming out of the rocks.

How long: 1 week

Why March: Scirocco wind starts to blow bringing an early spring

Weather : the average temperature is 13°C with sunny weather

Practical tips: have a look at this updated map to plan your favorite hikes.

10. Visit the picturesque village of Portofino (Liguria)

What: Portofino is a tiny village located near Genoa on the Northern coast of Italy. It is worldwide famous for its glamorous atmosphere and for being one of the favorite destinations of Italian and international celebrities. In summer it’s really crowded, fancy and busy but in other periods it’s just a picturesque and nice fishermen’s village hiding many beautiful pieces of cultural and historical heritage.

What to see: take the time to simply stroll in the streets and sit at a café in the main square to catch some glimpses of authentic local life. Don’t miss the views from the Brown Castle and the Lighthouse and visit the nice churches of S. Giorgio and S. Martino.

How long: 1day trip from Genoa

Why March: to enjoy a quiet and authentic atmosphere avoiding the crowds and the frenzy of the summer months.

Weather : the average temperature is 12°C with frequent rainfalls

Practical information: if you still have some time and it’s a sunny day, enjoy a pleasant scenic walk and reach the beautiful S. Fruttuoso Abbey.

You might want to check out:

• The best places to visit in Italy in September. 
• How to spend 2 weeks in Italy.
• How to spend 10 days in Italy.
• 4 Northern Italy itineraries
• A Southern Italy Itinerary.

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10 best places to visit in Italy in March 

Last updated on March 13th, 2024.

March in Italy is a good time to plan a visit.  

Much of the country remains chilly yet winter sunshine is prevalent in many places. On top of this, many destinations aren’t as busy as they are in summer. 

If March is a month that you’re thinking of visiting Italy, stick around till the end of this post. I’ll be listing 10 of the best places to visit in Italy in March. 

It will cover warm places in Italy in March and some of the best things to do in Italy in March. 

Some great places to add to your Italy bucket list , use this post to help plan your Italy trip . 

Annual holidays in Italy in March 

There are two notable public holidays in Italy that are worth noting. They’re unlikely to affect your travel plans but I think it’s useful to know about them. 

March 17 marks the Anniversary of the Unification of Italy ( Anniversario dell’Unità d’Italia ). Rome is likely the only place where you might see a small celebration in the city to mark the holiday. The day celebrates the birth of Italy as a modern nation state.  

March 19 is St. Joseph’s Day in Italy, more commonly known around the world as Father’s Day ( festa del papà ). Again, this won’t affect your travel plans but it’s useful to know about. 

How is the weather in Italy in March? 

As I outlined in ‘ when is the best time to visit Italy ’ the weather in Italy has become unpredictable.   Because of this, make sure to pack an umbrella, poncho and other useful travel essentials for Italy . 

10 best places to visit in Italy in March: Rome 

Rome in March isn’t a bad time to visit.  

Usual daytime temperatures in Rome in March hover around 60°F (15°C)* during the day to about 44°F (7°C) at night. Saying that, packing good outerwear is essential as temperatures can dip and it can feel quite cold. 

The plus of visiting Rome in March is that it may not yet be as busy. I say ‘may’ because Rome attracts so many visitors it’s rare to find a truly quiet period. However, you’re likely to encounter less visitors with children given that school is still in session. 

Another thing to note is the Easter holidays. They typically take place in April, meaning that you’ll avoid visiting Rome during a peak, and costly, period. 

Because of this, it makes Rome one of the best places to visit in Italy in March. 

Things to do in March in Rome 

If it’s your first time visiting Rome, needless to say you’ll want to see the city’s main attractions. 

And with comfortable temperatures in March in Rome, I think that it makes sightseeing more enjoyable. 

Some of my favorite top attractions to see in Rome include: 

• Booking a skip-the-line tour of the Colosseum     
• Seeing the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel     
• Booking tickets to enter St. Peter’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Pietro )   
• Getting tickets to see the Pantheon    
• Exploring the Roman Forum     
• Touring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus    
• Taking a guided tour of the Borghese Gallery ( Galleria Borghese )  
• Visiting the Trevi Fountain    
• Walking up the Spanish Steps   
• Taking a guided tour of the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo    
• Exploring the Capuchin Crypt     

Alongside the major sights in Rome, the city also hosts several annual events in March. They include: 

The Roma-Ostia half marathon ( Roma Ostia Mezza Maratona )  

The race starts in the EUR district of Rome and finishes near the beaches of Ostia. 

Free entry to Rome’s state museums 

Free is a word that we all like to hear.  

And on the first Sunday of every month, visitors can enjoy free entry to many of Rome’s museums. They include state museums like the Colosseum to religious museums like the Vatican . There is likely a specific timeframe for each museum so check the full list of participating museums for more details.  

Palermo 

Palermo Sicily is one of the best places to visit in Italy in March for several reasons. 

For one, the temperature in the capoluogo of Sicily tends to be milder than its northern counterparts. 

However, saying this doesn’t mean that it’s time to break out the flip flops and shorts. March in Sicily can still get quite cold. Depending on what part of Sicily, some areas can experience temperatures ranging between 41°F (5°C) to 50°F (10°C) at night. 

Pros of visiting Palermo in March 

Palermo in March is a quieter time of the year to visit. Weather wise, daytime temperatures can reach 61°F (16°C) and fall to 50°F (10°C) at night. 

The moderate March temperatures make for a more comfortable experience when visiting Palermo’s best attractions. We spent 2 days in Palermo in August and the high temperatures were unbearable.  

There’s no chance of this happening when visiting Palermo in March. 

Some of my favorite things to do in Palermo include: 

• Exploring Palermo Cathedral 
• Visiting Quattro Canti 
• Exploring the Royal Palace and the Palatine Chapel ( Palazzo Reale & La Cappella Palatina ) 
• Visiting Teatro Massimo  
• Trying the street food in Palermo  
• Browsing the produce at Ballarò (market) 
• Taking a trip to Monreale Cathedral  

Naples 

The city of incredible food, mind-blowing churches and an electric atmosphere, there’s never a dull moment in Naples Italy. 

One of the best places to visit in Italy in March, Naples makes a great early spring getaway.  

We spent one day in Naples and it wasn’t nearly long enough.

The weather in Naples in March is moderate with daytime temperatures around 58°F (14°C) and nighttime temperatures about 48°F (9°C). It can feel chilly especially if near the coast overlooking the Gulf of Naples. 

Things to do in Naples in March 

Many of Naples’ March events tend to revolve around religious festivities. And during this month, you’ll likely find several events celebrating the run-up to Easter.

These can range from special masses in churches in Naples to free concerts in the public square, Piazza Plebiscito. 

My favorite things to do in Naples Italy include: 

• Visiting the Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale di Napoli) 
• Admiring the architecture (and shops) inside Galleria Umberto I 
• Exploring the Spanish Quarter (I Quartieri Spagnoli) and have a drink at a local bar 
• Spending time inside Naples’ Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli) 
• Eating any type of Neapolitan pizza whether inside a pizzeria or at a food seller in town 
• Visiting the Museum Chapel Sansevero (Museo Cappella Sansevero) — booking tickets in advance is essential 

Map of Italy

Pompeii and Caserta 

Not far from Naples are two of the best places to visit in Italy in March.  

The archaeological site of Pompeii is one of the most popular, and fascinating, attractions in Italy.  

In brief, the city was destroyed by a volcanic eruption from Vesuvius in 79 CE. Today, the well-preserved site tells the tragic story of Pompeii and the people that perished that day. 

March is a good time to visit Pompeii. The mild temperatures of 57°F (14°C) to 68°F (20°C) make it comfortable and more enjoyable to fully enjoy the site.  

There are several ways to visit Pompeii. Naples to Pompeii is a straightforward journey and one you can do by car or public transport. 

Rome to Pompeii is another popular route and is also very doable. 

The third way to visit Pompeii is by joining a tour. They take care of all your transport needs, meaning all you have to do is enjoy the experience.

Some Pompeii tours to consider booking include: 

• Pompeii ruins – skip the line small group tour  
• Pompeii – small group tour with an archeologist    
• Pompeii archeological site entry ticket  
• Pompeii 2-hour private tour and skip-the-line tickets  

Caserta 

Caserta is home to the 19th century Royal Palace of Caserta ( Reggia di Caserta ). A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the palace is considered one of the finest examples of Italian Baroque and neoclassical architecture.  

The complex covers a humungous area of about 47,000sqm. It includes the main palace building, a large park and the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli. 

Its park was influenced by the gardens of Versailles in France , a feature you may recognize from the photo. 

Ultimately, this magnificent palace deserves sufficient time to fully appreciate its opulent interiors and picturesque park. Consider booking your tickets in advance and learn more about the Reggia di Caserta on a guided tour. 

Lecce 

Lecce is probably one of the friendliest places I’ve ever visited in Italy.  

The southern Italian city in Puglia makes the list of the best places to visit in March for good reason. 

Weather in Lecce in March can range from maximum highs of 54°F (12°C) to 64°F (18°C) during the day. At night, this range can fall between 41°F (5°C) and 50°F (10°C). Like Palermo, Lecce weather in March can get chillier than you might expect.  

The moderate weather makes a visit to the city nicknamed the ‘Florence of the south’ a pleasant one. 

Lecce is most famous for its Baroque architecture, particularly the use of local limestone called Lecce stone. Some notable Lecce attractions built with Lecce stone include the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. 

Other unmissable things to do in Lecce include: 

• Touring Lecce’s baroque architectural sights  
• Joining a street food and walking tour  
• Visiting the 2,000-year-old Roman Theater of Lecce ( Teatro Romano di Lecce ) 

Syracuse 

The Sicilian city of Syracuse ( Siracusa ) may be one of the warmest places in Italy in March. Syracuse already holds the title of the warmest place in winter in Italy so it wouldn’t be that surprising. 

March weather in Syracuse Sicily can range from highs of 75°F (24°C) during the day to 52°F (11°C) at night. Its higher temperatures are likely attributed to its position being in the south of Sicily.  

Like Naples, many events happening in Syracuse in March will likely have a religious angle and be connected to Easter. 

Aside from these events, Syracuse Sicily has plenty of top sights to see .

These include: 

• Visiting the Greek Theater of Syracuse ( Teatro Greco di Siracusa ) 
• Exploring Ortygia ( Ortigia ) island 
• Seeing Syracuse Cathedral ( Duomo di Siracusa ) 
• Admiring the papyrus in the Fountain of Arethusa ( Fonte Aretusa ) 

Taormina 

The pretty coastal town of Taormina is one of the most visited places on the east coast of Sicily . 

Even during the quieter months of the year, Taormina is never lacking in visitor numbers (read things to know about Taormina ). 

But if you’re planning on visiting Taormina, March isn’t a bad time of the year to go. The weather in Taormina in March won’t be like summer temperatures but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. 

Maximum highs in Taormina in March can range from 63°F (17°C) to 75°F (24°C). At night, temperatures can dip to around 52°F (11°C). 

These make for very pleasant temperatures for seeing the attractions in Taormina. It’s also why I added Taormina as one of the best places to visit in March. With our home in Sicily just 20 minutes away, Taormina is a town we frequently visit.  

Some of my favorite things to do in Taormina include: 

• Walking the sandbar to reach Isola Bella 
• Strolling through the main street of Via Roma in Taormina’s town center 
• Watch the sunset from Belvedere di Taormina 
• Watching a concert at the Ancient Theater of Taormina ( Teatro Antico di Taormina ) 

Bologna 

With the weather in Italy still veering on the chilly side in March, one city worth considering seeing is Bologna. 

March temperatures in Bologna can range from 58°F (14°C) during the day to around 39°F (4°C) at night. 

The moderate weather in Bologna in March makes it ideal for visiting the city’s sights. What’s more, the cooler temperatures mean you can indulge in some of the city’s heartiest and richest dishes.  

Bologna, and other parts of Emilia-Romagna, is known for having some of the best mouthwatering Italian comfort food . Keep warm with a big bowl of tortellini in brodo or a generous serving of tagliatelle con ragù alla Bolognese.  

Some fun things do in Bologna in March and year-round include: 

• Taking a tour of Bologna’s city center and seeing sights like Piazza Maggiore and the Tower of Asinelli ( Torre degli Asinelli ). 
• Joining a food tour of the city  
• Visiting the Sanctuary of the Madonna of St. Luke ( Santuario Madonna di San Luca ) 

Venice 

Is there ever a bad time to visit Venice? Well, the answer (for me at least) is yes and that’s during July or August. 

Extremely hot temperatures, crowds of people on and around every corner, Venice just isn’t enjoyable in summer. 

Give me Venice in winter , or a quieter season, and I’m there in a flash. It’s why I’ve placed Venice as one of the best places to visit in Italy in March. 

Weather in Venice in March 

The weather in Venice in March, like much of northern Italy, remains on the cooler side. 

To give you an idea, temperatures in March in Venice Italy can reach around 55°F (13°C) during the day. At night, this can dip to about 43°F (6°C).

But the good thing about visiting Venice in March is that you won’t have to second guess what to pack. Dress warmly, bring comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella, because early spring can be unpredictable. 

Things to do in Venice  

March in Venice comes after Carnevale in February and just before Easter in April. Crowds will be fewer, and you might just be able to fully enjoy the city and its many attractions.  

For first-time visitors to Venice, I usually suggest seeing some of the following. This is merely a guideline so choose the attractions that you most want to see. 

• Taking a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace ( Palazzo Ducale )  
• Visiting the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Marco ) 
• Enjoying a gondola ride on the Grand Canal  
• Visiting the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello  
• Seeing the exhibits at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection    
• Take a guided tour of the Academy Gallery ( Gallerie dell’Accademia ) 

The Dolomites 

Visiting the Dolomites ( Dolomiti ) in March is an interesting time of the year.  

Some parts of the mountain range, its surrounding lakes and towns may still have traces of snow. Other parts around the Dolomites and South Tyrol may look more springlike in appearance. 

It’s for this reason why the Dolomites features on this list of best places to visit in Italy in March. While still cold, there’s a good chance of experiencing winter sunshine in March in the Dolomites.  

Things to do in the Dolomites in March 

The region offers visitors a range of different activities to choose from. Ski resorts in the Dolomites at higher altitudes may still be operating in early March. Crowds, too, may also be fewer during this period. 

For non-skiers and winter sports enthusiasts, the milder March weather is a good time to visit towns around the Dolomites . We visited several on our Dolomites road trip during winter and enjoyed every second. 

Another plus about visiting the Dolomites in March is that you’ll know exactly what to pack.  

This area of northern Italy around the mountains tends to be cool for most of the year. Because of this, there’s no chance of packing the wrong clothing and footwear. 

What are your thoughts on this post of the best places to visit in Italy in March? Are there any places that stand out to you on the list? Let me know in the comments below. 

*Please note that temperatures listed are estimates based on previous years. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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36 thoughts on “ 10 best places to visit in Italy in March  ”

We are looking to go away for my birthday which is April, but are open with our dates starting in March so will have to look at Italy

That’s great, I hope you find some inspiration from this list

I didn’t know March is a great time to visit Italy. Thanks for sharing this information with us.

You’re welcome

Italy in March sounds wonderful, we are all in need of some warming spring sunshine by then!

Yes! And there is usually some sunny days in March to enjoy 😀

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Italy in March – The Best Things to See & Do

Home > Blog > Italy in March – The Best Things to See & Do

March is considered a shoulder season in Italy. While there will undoubtedly be tourists around, you won’t find yourself stuck in massive crowds. Spring is just starting to rear its head, giving way to beautiful foliage and hopeful locals. If you’re planning on visiting Italy in March, you’re in for a treat. Between the events, festivals, and well-trodden tourist attractions, you’ll have your hands full of interesting activities. Ready to plan your Italy vacation for March? Here are  the best things to see and do .

MARCH WEATHER IN ITALY

The weather in March can be slightly unpredictable. The beginning of the month often still feels cold like February, and the rest of the month varies significantly depending on the part of Italy you’re visiting. Keep in mind that in general, the country tends to be rainy, chilly, and damp. You’ll want to pack plenty of rain gear and durable shoes, especially if you’re sightseeing outside. That being said, the weather isn’t always cold during March. Typical temperatures are as follows:

• Northern Italy:  2-13°C
• Central Italy:  7-16°C
• Southern Italy:  10-16°C

The weather can actually get quite warm, especially in southern Italy. In fact, many people prefer these temperatures because they are the perfect compromise between hot summer temperatures and cold winter weather.

So, here’s what we recommend:

TAKE A SIDE-GUIDED PIZZA TOUR

When in Italy, you must eat pizza! We recommend taking a self-guided pizza tour to taste the best pies around the country. It’s an activity you can do in any weather, and one that will be enjoyable no matter where in the country you happen to be. Some of the best spots for pizza are  Naples ,  Rome , Florence, and  Tuscany . While we recommend that you find your favorite pizza spots on your own, here are a few suggestions to get you started. Try a slice at Pizzarium, Pizzaria La Notizia, Pizzeria Fratelli Salvo, and La Gatta Mangiona.

TAKE A WINE BAR TOUR

Italy is famous for the wine it produces, and if you’re visiting, you’ll want a taste. Wine bars can be found all over the country, and hold some of Italy’s best bottles. You can drink wine in any weather, so a wine tour is a great way to spend a dreary, March afternoon. Rome, Florence, Milan, and  Venice  are great cities to  test out the local wines , and some of the top wine bars include Enoteca Ferrara, N’Ombra de Vin, and Coquinarius. If you happen to be there on a sunny day, many wine bars have outdoor seating so you can enjoy the beauty of the landscape too.

AQUARIUM OF GENOA

Need a great indoor activity for the whole family? The Aquarium of Genoa is a top choice! It’s the largest aquarium in the country and is a great place to escape the rain. You’ll find it in Genoa’s former harbor area, holding 70 tanks that contain 6,000,000 liters of water. There are exhibits, historical artifacts, and plenty of sealife to view. Since there are 10,000 meters of exhibit space, you may want to give yourself plenty of time to explore.

National Museum of Cinema

If you happen to be visiting the northern city of Turin, this quirky museum is a must-see. It will be a bit colder up north, so a museum like this is the perfect way to stay warm and dry in the March weather. A historian, movie lover, and collector erected this museum which features old video equipment, movie posters, film paraphernalia, and motion picture-related collectables. This personal collection is seriously impressive, and is an inspiring place to visit for anyone who appreciates a good film. Check out the collection of paintings and movie posters before you leave.

Vatican Museums

If you want to spend multiple days inside extravagant museums,  the Vatican is the place . This city features a collection of significant galleries, sculpture gardens, and beautiful works of architecture. The museums hold more than 20,000 works of art that has been collected and passed down from Pope to Pope. The Gallery of Maps and the Sistine Chapel are two highlights that you should make sure to see on your visit.

National Archeological Museum in Naples

When visiting Naples, this archeological museum is one of the highlights. It’s filled with artifacts from ancient Rome, and also includes pieces from Roman, Greek and the Renaissance time periods. Make sure to see the Farnese Collection, which is made up of engraved gems, the Farnese Cup, and the Farnese Marbles. You’ll also find artifacts from Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius. The museum is also well-known for its collection of marble sculptures, mosaics, Egyptian artifacts, and its secret room.

Peggy Guggenheim Museum

Located in  Venice , this modern art museum can be found on the Grand Canal. It’s one of the  top attractions in Venice , and is a great way to spend a March afternoon. The art collection can be found in the 18th century palace, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, and displays a private collection of modernist art. Inside, you’ll find collections including works of Surrealism, Cubism, sculptures, and Abstract Expressionism. Some of the museum highlights include:  The Poet  by Picasso,  Nude  by Marcel Duchamp, and  Woman With Animals  by Albert Gleizes.

TAKE A COOKING CLASS

Food is a way of life in Italy and a  cooking class  gets you up close and personal with the culinary scene. There are  cooking classes in nearly every city , all over the country, so you should be able to join one no matter where you are. Not only will you get to cook and eat the food, but you’ll take back some valuable culinary skills as souvenirs. Learn all about Italian cooking spices, flavor profiles, and ingredients. Many classes will teach methods for hand making pasta, whipping up flavorful sauces, and crafting perfect desserts. Your friends will love it when you test out your Italian cooking skills back home.

GO ON A CAFE TOUR

If you love drinking coffee in cute cafes, Italy won’t disappoint. Italians love their cafes, so you’ll be able to join in on the caffeination and the culture.  Wander cities  like  Venice ,  Rome ,  Milan , and  Florence  and pop into as many cafes as you can. They’re great places to get out of the rain, warm up, and people watch. Grab a book, an espresso, and spend the afternoon soaking up Italy the authentic way. You’ll find traditional spots for cappuccinos as well as trendy, hipster hotspots where the Italian youth gather.

SHOP IN ROME’S COVERED MARKETS

Shopping in Rome’s markets  are a must while visiting Italy. However, since the March weather isn’t always ideal, you may want to search for a covered market instead. Rome has quite a few of these where you’ll find all sorts of local eats, fresh produce and interesting souvenirs. Try visiting the Mercato Trionfale, Esquilino Market, and the Mercato Testaccio. These markets offer an authentic, Italian experience without having to worry about rain.

GROTTA DELLE NINFE HOT SPRINGS

Italy in March can be rainy and chilly, making it the  perfect month for hot springs . Italy is scattered with these natural, heated pools, and many of them are off the standard tourist trail. If you want a unique hot springs experience, check out Grotta delle Ninfe, located in Cerchiara. The water is usually around 30°C all year, and the entrance fee is quite cheap. Locals usually make up the small crowds here, as they gather to soak up the healing benefits of the water. It’s said that sulfur-carbon content helps to cure ailments like rheumatoid arthritis and a variety of skin diseases.

GALLERIA DORIA PAMPHILJ

Stay warm and dry inside one of Rome’s most interesting art museums. Inside this gallery is Rome’s largest collection of art owned by a private collector. This impressive collection was the joint effort of four families who wanted to compile a body of artwork that would show off their incredible taste. While it’s not the most popular art museum in Rome, it does have a significant collection of 16th and 17th century artwork that rivals other museums in the city. Expect to see a collection of lavish frescoes, oil paintings, sculptures, and a display of wealth that inspires.

MILAN CATHEDRAL

This is Italy’s largest cathedral so it definitely deserves a spot on  your itinerary . It took six centuries to complete, and was dedicated to St. Mary of Nativity. It’s the seat of Milan’s Archbishop, and stands as an extremely impressive work of architecture. Give yourself plenty of time to explore as the cathedral is full of historical artifacts and artwork.

UFFIZI GALLERY

The Uffizi can be found in Florence, and is one of the  top museums  to visit in Italy. It’s one of the most important and most-visited art museums in all of Italy. In fact, it’s one of the most significant art museums in the world, and features important works centered around the Italian Renaissance. Considered one of the first modern museums, this gallery has been open for public viewing since the 16th century. Give yourself plenty of time to explore this massive museum, because there is a lot to see. Some of the more famous works include:  The Birth of Venus  by Botticelli,  The Holy Family  by Michelangelo,  The Annunciation  by Leonardo da Vinci,  Portrait of Leo X  by Raphael, and  Self-Portrait as a Young Man  by Rembrandt.

FESTIVALS/EVENTS IN ITALY IN MARCH

Carnevale doesn’t always fall in March, but it happens quite a lot depending on when the Easter holiday is. This is one of the country’s largest festivals, and the epicenter of celebration is in Venice. Expect live performances, music, parades, and locals wearing lavish costumes. Many of the swanky hotels will throw outlandish masquerade parties that you should try and attend. They are truly a once in a lifetime experience. Check with your hotel to see if they offer costume rental. This way, you can join in on the fun without busting your budget on an expensive costume.

Festa della Donna

Also known as International Women’s Day, this celebration happens on March 8th each year. It’s a country-wide event during which men bring the women in their lives flowers, and take them out to dinner. Most restaurants will have special menus, and cities will throw events and concerts to celebrate. Women typically get together with their female friends to go to dinner, the movies, or a show. And, many museums offer discounted tickets for women.  

Feast Day of San Giuseppe

Also known as Father’s Day, this holiday takes place on March 19th of each year. It’s celebrated all over Italy and is usually accompanied by bonfires, pageants, and special deals. On Father’s Day, it’s tradition for kids to shower their dads with gifts.

Festa della Primavera

This festival is all about the celebration of spring. It typically takes place on March 21st, and is characterized by festivals, regional food, and live music. Spring is celebrated all around the country, so you’ll most likely run into some kind of festivities if you’re traveling in Italy during this time.

Reenactment of Caesar’s Death

This reenactment takes place in Rome on March 16th. There will be various cultural events by the Roman Forum, including a complete display of Caesar’s death. If you’re into history, this festival is an added bonus to a day of sightseeing around Rome.

Rome Marathon

If you’re into long-distance running, you may want to sign up for the Rome Marathon before your trip. It takes place on the third Sunday in March and stretches for 42km around the city. The race starts off at the Roman Forum and takes runners through some of Rome’s most famous sites. Expect to run past the Colosseum and the Vatican while competing with athletes from around the globe. This is one of the most interesting and healthiest ways to see the famous sites of the city.

If you’re visiting Italy in March, you’ll be met with cooler temperatures, celebrations of spring, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. The weather isn’t always predictable but March is shoulder season, which means there won’t be many tourist crowds to compete with when visiting the sites.

Why not take a look at our other monthly guides for Italy created to help you get the most from your next vacation:

• The best things to see and do in Italy in January
• The best things to see and do in Italy in February
• The best things to see and do in Italy in April
• The best things to see and do in Italy in May
• The best things to see and do in Italy in June
• The best things to see and do in Italy in July
• The best things to see and do in Italy in August
• The best things to see and do in Italy in September
• The best things to see and do in Italy in October
• The best things to see and do in Italy in November
• The best things to see and do in Italy in December

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

Other Blog Posts You Might Like

When is the Best Time to Visit Venice?

What to Do in Florence for 3 Days 

The Best Foods in Sicily That You Need to Try

The 5 Best Day Trips from Florence 

The 9 Best Festivals and Events in Rome

The 9 Best Places to Visit in Sicily

Traveling to Italy in Spring: What You Need to Know

Tuscany in spring || creative commons photo by Francesco Carrani

I’ve argued on behalf of winter trips to Italy before, and I’ve had great winter visits myself. I also know it’s not for everyone. But what if you don’t relish the idea of a trip during the overcrowded and hot summer any more than you do the cold winter? Then that’s where the shoulder seasons come in – in this case, spring.

Here’s what you’ll need to know about going to Italy in the spring.

Spring Weather in Italy

I’m defining spring as the months of March, April, and May in Italy, but because of Italy’s Mediterranean climate (and, probably, climate change in general), May can be as hot as June or July these days. March, by contrast, can be as chilly and damp as February. Spring is, after all, a transition season – so unpredictable weather really is an appropriate hallmark.

Spring temperatures will vary quite a bit depending on what month you’re there and what part of the country you visit, so it’s a good idea to check not only the regional temperature averages (these are listed in the individual articles on each month, listed below) but also the actual forecast when you’re starting to think about packing. In general, though, don’t be surprised if you need to prepare for a little bit of everything – this is a sunglasses and umbrellas season.

Spring Holidays in Italy

There are some major Italian holidays in the spring, including Carnevale (sometimes, depending on the year, Easter, and Liberation Day. May is also when Italy’s annual Grand Tour bicycle race – the Giro d’Italia – is held. Carnevale and Easter in particular are big enough holidays that they draw huge numbers of tourists no matter what the weather is like, and spikes in prices go along with that.

March and April are both what I consider “shoulder seasons” in the tourism sense of the phrase – a time when crowds are a bit thinner than in summer, though not quite as sparse as winter, and when things like flights and hotel rooms can be grabbed at decent prices. May, on the other hand, is now part of the high summer season, as far as I’m concerned. I’m sure it’s partly because of the consistently warmer weather in May, and also because Italy is just such a popular destination, but the bottom line is that the shoulder season window for bargains is shorter than it once was.

Pros & Cons of a Spring Trip to Italy

Shoulder seasons offer just about the best combination of decent weather and reasonable prices, and that’s particularly true of March and April. Crowds increase in the spring as compared to the winter, but they’re generally not as dense as they can be in the summer. I’m enough of a planner that I’d still book tickets to popular museums ahead of time in the spring, but seat-of-the-pants travelers can certainly get away with not booking in advance, too. I’d still treat May like the high season, though, and book ahead accordingly.

The other shoulder season, autumn, seems to be getting increasingly popular, so if there’s a hierarchy of shoulder seasons in terms of prices and crowds, spring is nosing ahead in that race. As to why, my guess is that autumn’s combination of summer-like weather and food festivals are making it something of a secondary high season in Italy.

The weather in spring can be glorious, but it’s unpredictable enough that you can’t exactly rely on sunny weather for your beach-going days or feel 100% confident it won’t rain the day you’re exploring Pompeii. That’s problematic at times – like when you’re trying to pack for two different seasons’ worth of weather in one carry-on bag. It’s not an insurmountable weather hurdle, of course, but it presents its own challenges.

Also remember to check the calendar for the dates of holidays like Carnevale and Easter, as well as any other major holidays, so you can make or change plans accordingly.

Further reading on spring in Italy

• Traveling to Italy in March: What You Need to Know
• Traveling to Italy in April: What You Need to Know
• Traveling to Italy in May: What You Need to Know
• Italy Weather
• Italian Festivals
• What to Pack for Italy

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• Where to go on holiday in Italy in March: 10 unmissable destinations
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Where to go on holiday in Italy in March ? Here are ten ideas to make the most of the first days of spring.

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March when nature slowly awakens with its colors and the climate starts to get milder? From north to south, Italy is an infinite sequence of magnificent places to visit at any time of the year, but even more so when everybody want to spend more time outdoor, even though the air is still crisp.

Here are some excellent ideas for you to travel and discover new destinations, or to return to visit some of the milestones of Italy's immense cultural heritage. Art lovers, fans of nature walks, or perhaps food and wine enthusiasts, there really is something for everybody. Let's go right now to discover the top ten destinations  where to go on holiday in Italy in March.

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March to let winter go out on a high

Sea or mountain? City or nature? If you are thinking about where to go on holiday in Italy in March, the eternal dilemma has only one answer: both. This time of year, in fact, is ideal for traveling basically anywhere. The generally most popular destinations are not yet very crowded and the days are already long and warm enough to allow for beautiful walks.

Visit the picturesque villages that Italy is famous for, or some of the characteristic islands that pepper the Mediterranean. And why not take advantage of the return of the warm weather to stretch your legs on one of the many wonderful trekking paths that cross Italy? Furthermore, many cities have parks and villas with beautiful gardens that begin to bloom in March, perfect for pleasing art and nature lovers at the same time.

Let's begin our journey to discover the most beautiful places where to go on holiday in Italy in March from the small town of Alba . This ancient village, which boasts almost two thousand years of history, is practically the heart of the Langhe , a wonderful Piedmont region full of pretty villages, but mainly known for its wines and white truffles . It is no coincidence, in fact, that Alba has also been named a UNESCO Creative City for gastronomy. A must-see for food lovers, but not only them.

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Visit Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy (@visitchieti)

Chieti is a pretty town, mostly outside of mass tourism, which certainly helps to give it a dreamy and relaxed atmosphere. This, of course, doesn't mean there isn't plenty to do and see. Its history is very long and begins, according to legend, with the Greek hero Achilles who founded it, dedicating it to his mother.

8. Como and its lake

Villas, museums, monuments and of course the wonders of the lake bordered by villages and castles to be explored. Como is truly one of the top places where to go on holiday in Italy in March because it's able to fascinate everyone.

When spring is upon us, Umbria is definitely one of the places to be and Orvieto, in particular, will remain in your heart. It is a place rich in history, in the heart of the ancient region of Etruria .

By far its most famous monument, and rightly so, is the Duomo , among the most important cathedrals in the world. This church which admirably combines Gothic and Romanesque is a treasure chest of works by many great artists including Arnolfo di Cambio, Gentile da Fabriano, Beato Angelico and many others. It's particularly notable for its imposing façade whose golden mosaics shine in the sun.

Winter hasn't left yet, and the apple tree suddenly appears transformed in a cascade of fragrant stars. Pablo Neruda

6. Vernazza

Vernazza, in Liguria, is one of the most beautiful villages of the Cinque Terre. Perched on a promontory, this tiny town is made up of dry stone walls, loggias, colorful houses and small, steep streets that lead to the town small square. Here is the church of Santa Maria d'Antiochia , right in front of the port, which is the only natural one in the Cinque Terre.

A young and cultured city, Parma, home of the composer Toscanini, is one of the best places where  to go on holiday in Italy in March because it always offers so much to see and do. Its heart is a magnificent Romanesque style cathedral , with an octagonal baptistery. Not far away is the former monastery of San Paolo, where you can see an exceptional cycle of frescoes by Correggio , who is also the author of the paintings that decorate the awesome dome of the church of San Giovanni Evangelista.

4. Predazzo in Val di Fiemme

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Predazzo, Val di Fiemme (@visitpredazzo)

At an altitude of 1000 meters there is a small town with around four thousand inhabitants. It is Predazzo, the eastern gateway to the Val di Fiemme, and the link between the latter and the Val di Fassa. Here, between these two valleys in the Dolomites, there are some of the most beautiful landscapes in Trentino .

With its colorful houses reflected in the blue of the Mediterranean, the island of Procida seems almost drawn and is certainly one of the most pleasant places to wait for spring to arrive.

One of the best destinations to go on holiday in Italy in March, and not only then, is Tuscany and in particular Siena, one of its most beautiful town.

Surrounded by a countryside famous for its beauty, this lively medieval town, rich in history and traditions, never gets boring. Even a simple walk along its winding streets always reserves beautiful surprises, including suggestive views, artisan shops and typical restaurants where you can taste the exceptional local cuisine . Without forgetting, of course, its monuments, some of which are among the most precious of the Italian heritage. The Cathedral , for example, is a treasure chest of artworks that knows few comparisons, and the same can be said of the National Art Gallery , while the Palazzo Pubblico preserves a famous cycle of frescoes by Lorenzetti. With its high tower, the top of which is reached via more than four hundred steps, the Palazzo Pubblico delimits one of the most iconic Italian squares, Piazza del Campo , where in summer the famous Palio  takes place.

1. Where to go on holidays in Italy in March: Taormina

Where to go on holiday in Italy in March if not to Sicily? The island is incredibly rich in things to see , and has one of its most precious gems in Taormina. Goethe considered it a piece of paradise on Earth, and in fact anyone who visits cannot help but fall in love with this town.

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Italy in March: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

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Roman Forum in Rome, Italy

With its welcoming springtime weather, March is a fantastic time to visit Italy. As the winter chill gives way to sunny skies, the country comes alive with colorful parades, delicious seasonal produce, and fewer crowds.

In March, much of Italy enjoys warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for sightseeing in Rome's ancient ruins or exploring Venice's canals and piazzas.

While the likes of the Roman Forum, Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Michaelangelo’s David are always exciting experiences in Italy, this guide highlights some of the best places to visit and top things to do in March, from hiking Mount Etna to viewing spectacular floral displays and more.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Italy

Weather in Italy in March

Where to go in italy in march, what to do in italy in march, plan your trip to italy in march.

Tuscany, Italy

Average Temperatures in Rome, Italy: 63°F High • 52°F Low

March brings increasingly warm and sunny weather across much of Italy. While northern mountainous areas still see some rain and snow early in the month, cities like Rome and Naples enjoy over 10 hours of sunshine and temperatures of around 60°F during the day.

The pleasant weather makes March an ideal time for sightseeing, dining al fresco, vineyard tours, and views of vibrant wildflowers spread across the Italian peninsula.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Italy for a Wine Tour

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Grand Canal in Venice, Italy

Venice • Best Place for Sightseeing

As the crowds of summer are still months away, March is the perfect time to explore magical Venice. The city emerges from the winter fog as sunny days allow the marble architecture to gleam brightly once more.

Crisp air carries the sound of gondoliers’ songs and visitors can meander maze-like streets without fighting swarms of tourists. With festivals, pleasant weather, and relative tranquility, early spring grants travelers a glimpse into Venice’s enchanting past.

Learn more: 10 Most Romantic Places in Italy for Couples

Sicily • Best Place for Great Weather

As much of Italy continues to shake off winter's chill in March, the island of Sicily begins to bloom with pleasant springtime conditions. Sicily boasts highs around 60°F across its stunning coastal cities, historic ruins, and rolling hillsides during this shoulder season. Clear skies also create excellent visibility to admire Mount Etna’s dramatic, often mildly active peaks, and the wildflowers dotting a countryside rich with Greek and Roman artifacts.

With fewer crowds than in summer and far more sunshine than in winter, Sicily comes alive in March for hiking ancient trails, cycling through groves of olive and citrus trees, and exploring palazzos, vineyards, and markets at a comfortable pace.

Learn more: How to Visit Greece and Italy: 10, 14 and 21-Day Itinerary Ideas

Tuscany • Best Place for Families with Children

With its idyllic countryside and rich history, Tuscany enthralls adults and children. The warm daylight hours in March enable full days of exploration, when families can let their imaginations run wild in the medieval fortress city of Siena, climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and immerse themselves in art in Florence’s Uffizi Gallery.

Tuscany comes alive in March, with abundant wildflowers carpeting rolling hills, perfect for picnics under blossom-filled trees. With fewer crowds and better value than in summer, March welcomes parents to relax over wine tastings while the kids play in ancient piazzas or pick spring produce at local farms.

Learn more: 5 Dishes to Try on Your Trip to Tuscany

Sardinia • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

With warmer weather approaching, Sardinia’s miles of breathtaking coastline and scenic mountain hikes are open for travelers seeking tranquil trails and unspoiled beaches before peak season.

Along the way, visitors can discover Sardinia’s captivating cultural sites, vineyards, and seasonal cuisine with fewer crowds and more availability. March provides a peaceful glimpse into authentic island life before the busy summer months.

Learn more: Top 7 Things to Do in Southern Italy

Siena • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Enchanting Siena casts a romantic spell in March, when its medieval city centers and the Tuscan countryside bloom with life. Meander hand-in-hand past frescoed palaces and through vibrant markets and winding alleys, or linger over meals in intimate trattorias before an afternoon escape to hedge-lined wineries nestled in the hills.

As Siena shakes off winter’s quiet, spring’s mild climate and awakening charm make it an alluring retreat in which couples can bond beneath blue Italian skies.

Learn more: Our 9 Best Romantic Trips to Italy

Head for the hills and millions of wildflowers

In March, Italy’s rolling hills bloom brightly with millions of wildflowers. Exploring the countryside allows visitors to soak up brilliant carpets of wild irises mingling with fiery-red poppies and sunny daffodils along rugged trails and in vineyards.

The phenomenon of Mediterranean wildflowers carpeting idyllic rural landscapes reaches its crescendo along the Cinque Terre coastline in March. Renowned for its charm, with cliffside pastel villages perched dramatically above the sea, the region unveils halls of vibrant blooms towering above hiking trails connecting the five villages in early spring.

Watch snow and lava collide at Mt. Etna

A beguiling sight that’s unique to the volcanic peaks of Sicily occurs during late winter, when Mount Etna’s frequent mild eruptions collide with freezing summit temperatures to create fleeting icy structures.

Hiking Mount Etna in March presents intrepid travelers the chance to witness the volcanic mountain spewing molten lava, while simultaneously, crystalline icicles and mounds of snow cling to the higher elevations. The striking juxtaposition of freezing and fiery extremes evokes an alien, almost post-apocalyptic tableau. Etna remains one of Earth’s most restless volcanoes.

Step back in time at Pompeii

March welcomes travelers to explore the storied ruins of Pompeii before the summer crowds arrive. Crisp skies and moderate temperatures set the stage for immersive strolls through well-preserved Roman artifacts and buildings, transporting visitors back in time.

Without heavy crowds, one can vividly envision the daily workings of ancient shops, homes, theaters, and temples, capped off by panoramic views of nearby Vesuvius, which froze this lost city in time. March offers a quieter, more magical portal into Pompeii’s powerful past.

Teatro Antico di Taormina with Mt Etna in Sicily, Italy

From blooming countryside to the Vatican Museums, Venice’s canals, Mount Etna, and more, March welcomes visitors to uncover Italy. Exploring the country with fewer crowds allows deeper connections to its history and culture, while inviting activity in pleasant spring conditions before the summer crowds pour in.

Hungry to start planning your Italian March adventures? Our Italy travel guide offers further inspiration or you can find more information in our Italy tours .

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Best Places to Visit in Italy in March: Our Top 10 Picks

Looking for the best places to visit in Italy in March? You’ve struck gold!

We’ve handpicked our top 10 destinations just for you. Buckle up for a whirlwind Italian adventure that combines fewer crowds, gorgeous weather, and jaw-dropping sights.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

Ah, Venice! Known for its dreamy canals and artistic heritage. One step into the city and you’re walking into a painting. Notably, March is an ideal time to visit due to the lower tourist crowd.

You could witness the famed Carnevale di Venezia if your trip aligns with this vibrant festival. Your itinerary should undoubtedly include St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, and Doge’s Palace.

Quick Travel Tip: Explore the city early morning to experience Venice’s quiet charm before the day tourists swarm in.

2. Florence

Next stop, Florence, the cradle of Renaissance art and history. March brings pleasant weather perfect for leisurely walks through the city’s timeless streets.

A journey into the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery promises an encounter with illustrious art pieces.

Insider Knowledge: Most people don’t know that Florence’s Cathedral has a secret terrace with a stunning view. It’s accessible during a visit to the Duomo complex!

As they say, all roads lead to Rome, especially in March! This city’s historical charm is amplified by the serene atmosphere with fewer tourists at typically crowded sites.

Don’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and Vatican City.

Travel Tip: Make use of Rome’s extensive metro system to move around the city efficiently.

Welcome to Naples, the birthplace of pizza! A treat for the palate, Naples offers a rich culinary scene along with intriguing historical sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum.

In March, enjoy the scenic beauty of the nearby Amalfi Coast with fewer crowds.

Fun Fact: The Margherita pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Italy in 1889!

Let’s hop onto Sicily, a region reflecting a unique blend of cultures and rich history. March weather invites outdoor explorations, so don’t miss Mount Etna, Valle dei Templi, and Syracuse’s historic sites.

Insider Knowledge: Sicilian cuisine is known for its Arab influences. Be sure to try the “Cassata” dessert!

6. Sardinia

Next up is Sardinia, a paradise of unspoiled beaches and rugged mountains. If you’re visiting in late February or early March, you might catch Sa Sartiglia, a traditional equestrian tournament.

Don’t forget to explore the Nuraghe ruins, an impressive testimony to Sardinia’s ancient past.

Travel Tip: Sardinia’s public transportation is less reliable; consider renting a car for more freedom.

Welcome to Turin, Italy’s first capital. This city boasts an enchanting mix of culture, history, and the famous Aperitivo tradition.

The Egyptian Museum and the Mole Antonelliana are must-sees. And make sure you stop by one of Turin’s renowned cafes for an authentic Italian coffee experience.

Insider Tip: Turin is famous for its chocolate. Don’t miss trying Gianduja, a delicious hazelnut chocolate.

Buckle up foodies, we’re heading to Bologna, the food capital of Italy. March sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to savor Bologna’s rich gastronomic scene.

Be sure to join a walking tour of Europe’s oldest university and see the iconic Two Towers up close.

Quick Tip: If you’re a food lover, join a pasta making class or a food tour while you’re in Bologna.

9. Cinque Terre

Ah, the Cinque Terre, five brightly colored villages perched on rugged cliffs by the sea. The milder weather in March makes for excellent hiking conditions on the Sentiero Azzurro trail.

With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere in peace.

Travel Tip: Remember, cars aren’t allowed in the villages, so pack light!

Last but not least, we reach Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital. Top attractions include the impressive Duomo di Milano, the stylish Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

If your trip coincides with Milan Fashion Week, you’re in for a treat.

Insider Knowledge: The tiny vineyard next to the house where Leonardo lived during the painting of The Last Supper has been recently restored!

There you have it, the best places to visit in Italy in March! Each city holds its unique charm and appeal, promising unforgettable experiences. Be it the culture, history, or culinary delights, Italy in March is truly enchanting.

Additional Tips for Traveling in Italy in March

Don’t forget, the weather in March can be unpredictable. So pack layers, and a light rain jacket could come in handy. Navigating language barriers and local customs is part of the adventure, but learning a few Italian phrases can always help.

Finally, each city has its own transportation quirks, so research ahead and embrace the journey as much as the destination.

Happy travels, and as they say in Italy, “Buon Viaggio!” If you’re looking for more travel inspiration, check out our article on the most visited cities in Europe for a comprehensive guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in italy in march.

The weather in Italy during March varies across different regions. Generally, it is considered a shoulder season, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C. There might be occasional rain showers, so it’s advisable to pack accordingly.

Is March a good time to visit Italy?

Yes, March can be a great time to visit Italy. The tourist crowds are usually thinner, allowing you to explore popular attractions without long queues. Plus, the milder weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

What are the major events in Italy in March?

In March, you can witness a variety of events in Italy, such as Carnevale di Venezia in Venice or Women’s Day (Festa della Donna) celebrated nationwide on March 8. The dates of these events can vary, so it’s best to check in advance.

What should I pack for Italy in March?

Since the weather in March can be unpredictable, consider packing layers. A raincoat, comfortable walking shoes, and warmer clothing for the evenings are a good idea. Don’t forget a good camera to capture Italy’s stunning landscapes and architecture!

Can I visit the beach in Italy in March?

While the temperatures in March might not be warm enough for typical beach activities, you can still enjoy Italy’s coastal areas. The beautiful seaside towns of Amalfi Coast or Sardinia, for instance, offer scenic views and pleasant walks.

About Ronaldo Stewart

Wantigo was born out of a deep passion for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. With a keen sense of adventure and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I’ve traveled far and wide, immersing myself in the beauty and wonder of the world.

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Life in Italy, Italian Language, Italian Culture, Italy News, Tourism News, Italian Food

Italy in March

Italy is known to be one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. However, this also means that thousands of tourists travel to the country to visit its many well known locations.  Its beautiful ancient churches, cathedrals, and museums do not go unnoticed and are visible to all. Because of this, rates of hotels and all other tourist facilities shoot up during peak season. Visitors often end up paying almost double than what they would off season, for the same hotel room. The primary tourist season in Italy goes from late Spring and to the end of Summer: in this period, you can expect hordes of tourists travelling to the country to enjoy its sunny beaches and its beautiful cities.

As with any time of year,  March weather in Italy  will vary depending on the region. It also tends to be more unpredictable than the Summer months. Compared to warmer months like  June , March sees quite a bit of rain  as well as chilly days . If your vacation itinerary includes lots of outdoor sports and activities, then the weather difference will certainly be noticeable. On the other hand, if you are planning to be indoors or visiting museums and churches for the majority of your trip, the differences in weather would not affect your enjoyment. Because most of Italy’s famous tourist attractions are located indoors, tourists should not be concerned about the weather. Keep in mind, the savings in airfare and hotel prices may make a little rain more than worthwhile!

… little but effective hints

Weather in march.

March in Italy is still marked by some cold and chilly days, with many regions experiencing damp, rainy days. However, particularly after the second half of the month, sunny days become usual: in Rome, for instance, you can expect an average temperature within the 60s Fahrenheit. Anyway, almost any weather is possible in March, which is why the month is known to be pazzo (crazy). So, if you are planning on a lot of travel outdoors or hiking, March might not be the right time . However, those who are just interested in visiting the many beautiful churches and monuments in the country may find March to be a perfect time of the year to do it.

March 21st is spring’s first day, and clocks are set to summer the last week of March.

In Milan , and other parts of Northern Italy , average temperature would remain between 1 and 13 degree Celsius (34 to 56 degrees Fahrenheit). Precipitation is still common in March, but a sunny, warm day is more likely than a snowy day.

The average temperature in Central Italy , including Rome, ranges between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius (43 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). Greater chances for sunny days toward the end of the month will show that the long Winter is finally over.

In Southern Italy and Sicily, March is quite mild, with temperatures remaining between 11 and 16 degrees Celsius (52 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit).

Where to visit in March

The best thing about Italy is that events and festivals are held all over the country throughout the year. So, even if visitors travel to Italy off season, they still have plenty of things to do. Some of the best places to visit in Italy in March are Turin, Rome, Florence and Verona . These are where the most relevant Spring Festivals are held in March. Beside taking part in them, visitors can also visit the cities, all beautiful examples of Italian art and architecture. Rome and Florence are widely regarded as two of the world’s best cities in terms of culture, art, and architecture. During the off-season, many of their museums and sightseeing locations offer discounts to visitors.

Festivals in March

International women’s day.

March, 8 th is the  Festa della Donna (International women’s day) .

The idea of adopting the Mimosa dates back to 1946, shortly after World War II ended and the first significant steps toward women’s rights were taken.

The mimosa, the most well-known version of the name “ Acacia Delbata ,” is extremely hardy in a variety of climates. Women are perfectly represented by this symbolism.

Commemoration of the death of Caesar

In Rome, the commemoration of the death of Caesar is held every March, on the  15 th . Various cultural events, including a marathon race, take place during the celebration, its fulchre being Caesar’s statue in the Roman Forum.

The famous marathon in Rome is usually organized on the third or fourth Sunday of the month (but please check the official website, sometimes it’s in April, as it is this year, 2019). The marathon runs its 42km stretch through many picturesque streets of the city, its starting point is at the Roman Forum, after which runners will pass by some of the best known monuments and locations of the capital, including the Vatican. The finish line is, every year, by the Colosseum. The marathon is quite popular and people from all over the world take part in it, and there is even a shorter route for casual runners.

Father’s Day

Saint Giuseppe or Saint Joseph’s feast day is celebrated on the 19 th  of March and is also known as Father’s Day . It used to be a national holiday in Italy and traditionally bonfires were lit through the country on the day. According to tradition, children give gifts to their fathers on the occasion. In many places, nativity scenes based on the life of the Saint are shown. Saint Joseph Day also have a typical food:  zeppole.

In Fermo, Marche, there’s  Tipicità , a festival about food and traditions from the Marche region. The festival is held at the “ Fermo Forum” in the city of the same name. Food and gastronomy are in the spotlight at the moment. It’s a way of attracting tourists from surrounding areas and showcasing the beauty of the Marche gastronomic tradition to the public.

The program includes dozens of stands and thousands of square meters to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. For more information, go to the event’s official website .

Palio dei Somari

For those who like medieval festivals and events , the  Palio dei Somari, a donkey race, may be quite interesting. The event takes place in “ Torrita di Siena “, a picturesque medieval village in Tuscany close to the city of Siena . The event takes place on the 19 th March. A historic parade is also a part of the celebrations.

Wine lovers would have a wonderful time in Italy in March, since the largest and the most important wine festival takes place in the month of March (or sometimes at the beginning of April), in Verona. The festival is known as VinItaly . During the festival, you can sample some of the best known wines of Italy, including local ones made from the vineyards around Verona.

Spring festivals are also quite commonly celebrated in Italy in March . The Festa della Primavera is usually held on the 21 st  of March in various different locations in the country. Usually the festival has some cultural events centered around music and performances. Visitors are also invited to taste a lot of typical regional food items during the festival itself.

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Italy in March 2024

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Are you thinking about visiting Italy in March?

As you may have heard, in Italy, March is the month of the year when the air turns crisp and the temperatures rise significantly .

Weather throughout the country is generally pleasant and with an increasing number of sunny days on the horizon, Italy in March is the perfect place to be!

Table of Contents

Italy in March

Whether you’re thinking of visiting for a short weekend break or venturing out on an Italian road trip, just know that you’ll be visiting Italy when the tourist crowds are yet to have arrived and when accommodation is even more affordable .

As you probably already know Italy is known for many things (not just Pizza and Pasta like many people imagine) and there is no better place to visit in Europe when you want to experience a wide variety of food and delicacies.

So put on a light coat, a pair of sunglasses and comfortable shoes: starting from north to south, let’s explore the best places to visit in March in Italy!

Is Italy worth visiting in March?

There are a plethora of reasons to visit Italy in March. The country is full of old villages and big cities worth exploring as well as some of the most beautiful countryside and coastlines that you can find in Europe.

So let’s start this inspirational travel guide by looking at a few of our reasons why you should be around this part of the world during the month of March.

• Even though spring doesn’t start until the end of March, we can safely say that winter can be considered a thing of the past. Temperatures go significantly up but at the same time, it won’t still be too hot. These are the optimal weather conditions to visit the country without suffering from the summer’s heat.
• Flights and accommodation prices are even more affordable . March is not the most popular month to travel to Italy and for this reason, you can find great deals if you book a few months in advance, as we usually recommend doing.
• Spring is the perfect time of the year to move around Italy as the weather is pleasant and the amount of things to see and do is endless! There’s no better time to organize a road trip or hop on the train and travel to different cities. We got you covered in our practical travel itinerary that covers 2 weeks in Italy and is perfect to follow if using public transport.

We believe that for the 3 reasons above, Italy in March is just a great time to explore the country and make the most of its beautiful landscapes and cities.

Italy in March weather 2023

March in Italy is a cold month even if temperatures are slightly increasing all over the country, the average temperature remains at 15 °C .

Expect to find rainy days too, so it’s a good idea to carry a small umbrella and a good rain jacket to protect yourself from the elements when walking around.

It’s not yet the best time to go to the beach if you’re thinking about visiting coastal towns, but it’s ideal to go sightseeing, go on excursions and visit museums or art galleries.

Since the weather is unstable , be sure to check the forecast before your trip and include both outdoor and indoor activities in your itinerary.

In March, we advise getting dressed in layers so you can easily add or remove clothes based on the temperatures you encounter.

Since you’ll be spending most of your time visiting attractions, wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or boots. You don’t need to carry wool clothing, but warm cotton is highly recommended.

Things to do in Italy in March

Let’s now take a look at the things to do in Italy in March , by starting with some of the most iconic places which are on the bucket list of many!

Venice in March

March in Venice is the ideal time to visit the city of canals and bridges and explore its invaluable artistic and architectural heritage. Finally, winter is gone, and the city seems to come to a new life.

Every year can change, but normally during this month the Carnival is celebrated. There’s no better time to be in Venice to see masks and costumes around the streets and piazzas.

With the nice weather, it’s great to visit the main attractions such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge as well as go on a gondola ride and admire the colors of the city from the Grand Canal.

There might be a chance of encountering the high tide and one or two rainy days, but it shouldn’t stop you to visit Venice in March.

In March, Venice’s New Year (Capodanno Veneziano) is also celebrated on the 1st of March, Women’s Day on the 8th of March with the Regatta delle Donne and, depending on the year, even Easter .

Since temperatures are around 15 °C, if you’re spending more than 2 days in Venice , we recommend visiting the Venetian Lagoon and other islands such as Murano, Burano and Torcello for the most fantastic experience possible.

Rome in March

Early spring is the perfect time to be in Rome, Italy’s capital city, also called the ‘Eternal City’ for the immense historical heritage that the city counts on.

If you’ve never been to Italy before, then Rome is a must-see destination for first time visitors, with a thousand attractions and hidden gems worth discovering. If you’re in Rome in March expect to find an average temperature of 16 °C, and some days with a peak of 22 °C.

This is the perfect weather to walk around its streets, wonderful piazzas and neighborhoods . Take your time to admire landmarks such as the Colosseum and Roman Forums , the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain , just to name a few (and book your tickets in advance to avoid long entrance queues).

In March, you can also celebrate Women’s Day, like the rest of Italy does, to commemorate the death of Julius Cesar on the 15th of March and see the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna covered with colorful flowers in bloom!

If traveling with family, it’s worth knowing that on the 19th of March, St. Joseph is celebrated which corresponds with Father’s Day in most Catholic countries. So there’s no better time to go out for an authentic Roman dinner in the Trastevere quarter and celebrate.

Amalfi Coast in March

Traveling to the Amalfi Coast in March is a good idea if you want to avoid the big crowds taking over the streets and beaches of this wonderful coastal area in the south of Italy.

Temperatures are around 16 °C which is just perfect to spend time exploring the towns, go hiking on the Path of the Gods (one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Italy) and plan day trips to close by destinations such as Sorrento, Pompeii and Naples.

March is still not a good time to go to the beach , go snorkeling or practice water sports, but you can still go on boat trips around the area or to the popular island of Capri while here.

Accommodation is very affordable, but be aware that many hotels and restaurants undergo renovation work during this time to get ready for the busy summer season.

If you’re in Positano or Amalfi , hop on a bus or hire a car or scooter and visit other villages of the Amalfi Coast . We recommend visiting Ravello, Cetara and Vietri sul Mare.

Wherever you’ll be on the Amalfi Coast, you can indulge in the delicious local cuisine and try the exquisite limoncello, a liqueur prepared with fresh lemons.

Florence in March

The ‘cradle of Renaissance’ is what people called Florence in the past. That’s because of its ancient history, and its artistic and architectural gems, this Italian city is one of those destinations that you have to visit at least once in your life.

Florence in March is the ideal time to wander around its beautiful cobblestoned streets , stare in front of the Duomo and the David by Michelangelo and visit its incredible museums, and more specifically the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries .

During Father’s Day in Florence, you should absolutely try the famous Zeppole di San Giuseppe , a lovely creamy pastry, traditionally prepared for this occasion. On the 25th of March, you can celebrate the Florentine New’s Year which corresponds with the start of spring (more or less) .

If you love chocolate and you’re here during the first days of the month, it’s worth going to the Chocolate Fair that takes place in Piazza Santa Croce.

With the rise in temperature it is also a great time to walk around the Giardini dei Boboli , not far from the city center and go for long walks along the Arno river .

In the case that you decide to spend more than 2 days in Florence , then why don’t you go and explore the wonderful Tuscan countryside? You could also cover Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano in one day if you plan your time wisely.

Naples in March

Naples, one of the most important cities in the south of Italy and of course, pizza’s motherland. Naples is just a great city to visit in March for so many reasons.

Temperatures during this month can easily reach 17 °C , and there is less chance of rainy days compared to the north of Italy.

This means Naples is worth visiting for its enjoyable weather perfect to explore the city on foot, walk down Spaccanapoli (the street dividing the city into two) where you can stop for a pizza or a sample of other traditional Neapolitan street foods .

Since March is not considered as the high season, you’ll most certainly find cheap accommodation in and around the city center and (almost) zero queues to visit the main attractions.

Make sure you visit the Cappella di San Severo with the statue of the Veiled Christ, the Santa Chiara cloister, Piazza Plebiscito and the Umberto I Gallery . From the Caracciolo promenade you can admire the Gulf of Naples and the volcano Vesuvius.

Another great panoramic spot to see the entire gulf is the Castel dell’Ovo. Depending on how many days in Naples you’ll spend, you also plan one or more day trips .

We really recommend visiting the archaeological site of Pompeii , spend a day in Sorrento or the Amalfi Coast or visit the islands of Ischia , Procida and Capri .

Milan in March

Milan is the fashion capital city and the second-largest metropolis after Rome. If you’re thinking about visiting Milan in March, then there’s no better time to go!

Temperature rise to 15 °C during this month which is ideal for strolling around the city centre and visiting the main landmarks. Check out the stunning Duomo di Milano , the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery and the Sforzesco Castle.

There’s no better time of the year to go on a nice walk along the Navigli or inside the Sempione Park and make the most of the nice weather.

On a rainy day , we recommend visiting some iconic museums such as the Museo del Novecento , the Pinacoteca di Brera and check out The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci inside the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

Go window-shopping , or on a shopping-spree if you’re traveling with a high budget, in the fashion district called Quadrilatero della Moda and indulge in the aperitivo ritual with a nice Aperol Spritz, since Milan claims to be the best place in Italy to try this experience.

If you’re staying in Milan for more than 2 days, then you can also visit nearby towns such as Mantua or Parma or visit the Lake Como .

Palermo in March

Palermo in Sicily is the southernmost big city in Italy and counts on a Mediterranean climate and in March temperatures can go up to 17 °C .

This pleasant climate is great for visiting the city’s beautiful artistic and architectural treasures learn more about its ancient past.

Sicilian food is considered one of the best in the country, so why don’t make the most of the enjoyable weather by joining this street food and history walking tour while you’re here?

During your walk, you’ll have the chance to visit Piazza Beati Paoli, the Cathedral , the Baroque square of Quattro Canti and the Pretoria fountain with a stop at the Capo Market .

Palermo faces the homonymous gulf and if the days are sunny and warm, you can spend some time at the beach Mondello , where locals love to hang out.

During this month, you can also visit nearby towns like the picturesque Cefalù and Monreale or go to the Valley of Temples in Agrigento and visit one of the most important ancient Greek archaeological sites in the world.

As you can see Italy in March is a great place to explore. Whichever destination you’re more inclined to visit, based on your personal preferences and interests, you’ll find a pleasant weather in March more or less all around the country.

Temperatures are ideal to visit landmarks and the main attractions and to avoid most of the tourist crowds of the summer months.

You probably won’t want to spend time on the beach or try any water sports yet, but you can plan day trips and excursions. Another positive note is in March prices for accommodation and flights are still not sky-high and this will allow you to save money.

So if Italy is on your list, and you weren’t sure if March was a good time, now you can be reassured that it’s a great choice.

While you’re here, be sure to read some of our best sustainable travel tips to ensure your stay has the best possible impact on the local environment.

Dear responsible traveler : This post may contain affiliate links, which means, if you click through and make a purchase, book a tour or a hotel, we may earn a small commission. This is at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to maintain the quality of this site.

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Rome in March  - Essential Trip Planning Guide

By Elyssa Bernard

January 10, 2024

Coming to Rome in March ? Plan for it to be a little chilly and rainy. March is still mostly a winter month.

But it's also the calm before the storm.

The crowds are not quite here yet, but they are on the way.

Rome in March - At a Glance

Here's what you need to know:

• What's the weather like? Does it rain a lot in March in Rome?
• What to pack for Rome in March ? What to wear in March in Rome ?
• Is March a good time to visit Rome ?
• What's happening in March in Rome?
• What food is in season in March in Rome?
• What are some things to do in March in Rome ?

Weather in Rome Italy in March

I've lived in Rome since 2001.

It never fails.

Every single year, on March 1, I somehow expect it to be spring, because "March is a spring month."

The reality is that it's never spring in the beginning of March (in fact, spring technically begins on March 20.)

I am always chagrined to find the beginning of March full of blustery cold days, with plenty of rain  and sometimes sleet.

The cooler period in Rome lasts from November through to March so it is not as warm as I want it to be!

And I think this is one reason the beginning of March in Rome is still low season .

It is, after all, still winter . And school vacations are not in swing yet.

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But there is inevitably one day in March - it changes from year to year - sometime late in the first half, when I start seeing tour buses all around Rome. And school groups.

And then I know.

Spring is almost here, and high season is just around the corner .

As for rain, well yes, March can be a rainier month than others , because it's spring/pre-spring.

But it's hit or miss, and sometimes you just have glorious blue-sky days in March in Rome.

What to Pack for Rome in March

When packing for Rome in March be sure to think about layers.

The weather can be a bit unsettled, going from sunshine to rain showers very quickly so it's best to be prepared, summer is a few months away still!

If the sun is shining it can feel warm so pack a mix of lighter and heavier layers, as well as a good raincoat or waterproof jacket to keep you dry if it does start raining unexpectedly.

Visit my page all about what to pack for Rome in March   for specific recommendations, suggestions on what to wear in Rome in March and more!

For more packing tips, and a downloadable packing list, visit my page about What to Pack for Rome , as well as my page about staying safe in Rome .

Visit my Amazon page for all my shopping recommendations !

Disclosure  : If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you.  Thank you for supporting my site!

Visit my dedicated pages about what to pack for Rome for every spring month:

• Packing for Rome in March
• Packing for Rome in April
• Packing for Rome in May
• Packing for Rome in June

What to Wear in Rome in March

For sight-seeing in March in Rome, here is the ideal way to dress:

• Extremely comfortable shoes/sturdy walking sandals
• Sturdy cotton long pants or jeans, or a long skirt
• Long-sleeved henley or polo shirt or other medium weight cotton top
• Warm cardigan or pullover in your bag
• A water-proof jacket in your bag (or get a waterproof jacket with removable liner)
• Warm scarf for men and women

As always, be comfortable: wear comfortable walking shoes, good socks, breathable fabrics, and enough layers to keep you warm, especially in the evening.

Don't forget to bring these essential travel items with you!

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

March in Rome - What to Expect

Is it crowded in march in rome.

The first half of March will still be wintery cold , certainly at night.

And March is a  rainy  month, so be prepared.

But in those first two weeks, it's also  still fairly quiet in Rome.  

If you want to visit  Rome on a budget , you will find great deals on accommodations in the beginning of March.

Not a lot is happening just yet.

If you come the second two weeks, be prepared for crowds, in particular school groups.

Ready to plan your trip?

This does not mean it's a bad time to come to Rome .

But you should plan for it, and book some things ahead .

What's Happening in Rome in March

There are some things that happen every March in Rome. Here are some dates to watch for:

March 8 - International Women's Day , a major international holiday around the world.

Although it's not a bank holiday, it's still widely recognized.

The tradition is to give some mimosa flowers to the women in your life. Look for them around Rome in early March.

March 9 - the Feast Day of St. Frances of Rome . She founded an order called the Olivetan Oblates of Mary, and eventually the Tor de' Specchi monastery , right near Capitoline Hill.

The monastery is only open on March 9 each year . It's free to visit but you may find a line and some crowds. But it's really worth a look if you are in Rome that day.

March 15 - The Ides of March

On this day in 44 BCE, Julius Caesar was assassinated by members of the Senate.

Every year on or around this date, you can attend a free re-enactment of this momentous occasion , which takes place where the actual assassination happened, in Largo Argentina .

In honor of Saint Patrick's Day, March 17 , Tourism Ireland lights up the Colosseum in green. This is part of their #globalgreening initiative. They light up other monuments around Europe, too.

The lighting is from around 9-11pm.

March 19 - Father's Day in Italy,   La Festa di San Giuseppe .

Giuseppe is Italian for Joseph and of course Father's Day here is named for the one of the most famous fathers, at least in Catholic history.

The best part about this holiday are the pastries dedicated to it - the  bignè di San Giuseppe , which are cream-filled puff pastries.

March 19 is St. Joseph's Day and the Vatican Museums will be closed on this day.

The last Sunday of March is the beginning of Daylight Saving Time in Europe (this date differs from the U.S. and some other parts of the world). 

We LOSE one hour. Be aware of this if you have any Sunday morning plans, like a tour or flight.

The Rome Marathon , usually held around either the last Sunday in March or first Sunday in April, will be held on Sunday  March 17 2024 .

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

Foods in Season in Rome in March

It is still artichoke season (globe artichokes), but you will also still see plenty of winter greens too: puntarelle ,  broccoletti ,  broccolo romanesco , and chicory. 

Asparagus and strawberries are also starting to show up.

There is also a very particular green to get in early spring: agretti . Agretti look like grass, taste like spinach, and are a very seasonal, very Roman green. 

For a detailed listing of fruits and vegetables in season in Rome in March, visit my friends' fabulous website Casa Mia .

Some of my favorite seasonal things to eat in Rome in March include artichokes and agretti (pictured above), and Sicilian blood oranges.

Rome in March - Things to do

March is still cool and that means it's great sight-seeing weather .

So one of the best things you can do in Rome in March is be a tourist, and enjoy the city and sites on foot.

Free Things to do in Rome in March

On the  Free Sunday  you can visit Rome's museums for free.

State-run sites like the  Colosseum  and  Castel Sant'Angelo , as well as civic museums such as the Capitoline museums are all free on the first Sunday of the month.

The  Vatican Museums  are free on the last Sunday of the month, for limited hours.

Visit my page about  March events in Rome  for more details.

On the last Saturday/Sunday in March, we always move to Daylight Saving Time, and LOSE one hour.

Keep this in mind if you are planning to visit the Vatican Museums on the Free Sunday in March.

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More ideas for things to do in March

Maybe it's your 2nd (or 3rd or 4th) time in Rome.

Or you have more than 3 days here. Or you just want to see and do lots of fun things.

Besides the obvious  must-see tourist attractions  and concerts  there are lots of great things to see and do in Rome in March. Here are some ideas for your visit:

Take a cooking class

There are so many great options for taking cooking classes in Rome! From pizza-making to learning to make fresh pasta, to going shopping with the chef and making a home-cooked meal at his/her house!

Take a day trip

We are close to so many things, like Pompeii , Ostia Antica , the beach at Ostia Lido ,  Tivoli , Florence and much more.

Don't forget to book your high-speed train from Rome to Florence in advance!

Take a bicycle tour

You can go out onto the Appia Antica , a lovely area to tour by bike. 

You can also try one of Rome's newest tours, by electric bike !

What a great way to see the sites, get some exercise but not get too over-exerted!

Take a vespa tour

This is all the rage now.

Zipping around Rome either on the back of a vespa or driving one on your own can be a fun and fascinating way to see the Eternal city.

Rome in Spring A Romewise Photo Book

Travel to the eternal city in spring from the comfort of your home with our beautifully designed photo book..

This book comes as a hardback, with a glossy cover finish, ensuring it will look stunning on your coffee table, desk or bookshelf. Produced in, and dispatched from the United States, this book is available now for worldwide shipping*. $19.99

*This product is produced in, and dispatched from the United States. Please consider that delivery timeframes may fluctuate based on where you are in the world, particularly while COVID-related disruptions persist. Deliveries outside of the United States may be subject to custom or import fees, which Romewise bears no responsibility for - if you are unsure, please check with your national authorities before ordering.

Museums to visit in Rome in March

It's always a good idea to visit one of Rome's wonderful museums. 

Of course there are the  Vatican Museums , where you will see the Sistine Chapel .

March is a great time to visit the  Galleria Borghese , with its amazing Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings.

Make sure to book ahead !

One of my  favorite museums in Rome  is the  Capitoline Museums . These museums comprise some of the most extensive and comprehensive displays of painting, sculpture, artefacts and architecture in the world.

Open daily from 9:30am - 7:30pm. 15€.

Book in advance if you can. It's not always possible to just turn up without booking.

This is the time of year I'd visit  St. Peter's tomb under the Vatican .

Because I went in August one year thinking it would be "cool", and instead I was roasting.

They seal you into every room you go into, so it's quite hot.

So in chilly March, this is not only a great thing to see, but a great way to be warm in an awesome place!

I've listed some of what I think are the most fascinating events, and most central in Rome. For a complete list of events in Rome in March, visit the website of the  Rome Tourist Board .

Get your 100%  free  Rome trip planner now!

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Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

Please come over to the private Romewise Facebook group and join in the conversation.

You will often find me there, happy to answer your questions / comments!

You will also meet other Rome lovers and experts, too.

What are you waiting for?

Come join in the fun !

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Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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Tuscany In March – 9 Exclusive Gems to Explore In Spring

Tuscany in March offers a first glimpse of spring in the Italian countryside. However, if you’re looking to visit during this time, you might be wondering whether it’s worth the trip.

While the summer months may be more popular among tourists, March offers a unique opportunity to experience Tuscany in a more relaxed and authentic way. With milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and a host of cultural events and activities, March can be an ideal time to explore this charming region of central Italy.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Tuscany in March has something to offer everyone. Let’s dive in and explore everything

Tuscany In March: The Weather

While the weather in Tuscany in March can vary, it’s generally mild.

On average, you can expect temperatures that range from around 50°F to 61°F, along with occasional rain showers.

While it may not be warm enough for sunbathing or swimming, the cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or exploring the cities and towns of Tuscany.

Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the beginning of Tuscan’y gorgeous spring season just beginning, complete with blooming flowers and budding trees, adding a beautiful touch to the already stunning landscapes!

Best 9 Places to Visit in Tuscany in March

1. san gimignano.

While Tuscany is full of picturesque towns and cities, San Gimignano is one of the best places to visit in March. This charming little hilltop town is famous for its medieval architecture and medieval towers.

These towers were built during the 12th and 13th centuries by the region’s wealthy families as a sign of their power and wealth. At its peak, the town had up to 72 towers. Unfortunately, however, only 14 remain standing today.

Siena is another stunning medieval city and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tuscany in March.

Located in the heart of the region, Siena is home to some of Italy’s most important historical and cultural landmarks, including:

• Piazza del Campo
• Siena Cathedral
• Palazzo Pubblico.

3. Greve in Chianti

If you’ve ever had Chianti wine, then you’ve already had a small taste of this picturesque town.

Known for its vineyards , olive groves, and, you guessed it, charming medieval architecture, Greve in Chianti is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of rural Tuscany.

Greve’s visitors can enjoy quintessential winding Italian streets, bustling markets, and historic churches. Plus, the vineyards start coming to life in March with the first buds of spring, so you’ll get to enjoy some excellent wine along the way.

If you didn’t capture a photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa , did you even go to Tuscany?

Pisa, which is located in central Tuscany, is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower.

However, while the city may be most well-known for its leaning landmark, there is so much more to explore!

In March, the weather is starting to warm up, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s narrow streets and piazzas. Visit the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta or walk along the River Arno and take in the stunning views of the city’s historic architecture.

It’s worth noting that Pisa also has a lively food scene, with many restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Tuscan cuisines, such as Lampredotto or Pappardelle.

Just a short distance from Pisa, you’ll find the charming town of Lucca.

The city might be best known for its impressive Renaissance walls that have surrounded the historic center since the 16th century. Visitors can walk or cycle along the top of the walls to take in panoramic views of the city.

And, if you’re just as much of a fan of paper as Dwight Schrute , Lucca is also famous for its traditional paper production, and you can learn about this craft at the city’s Paper Museum.

6. Bagno Vignoni

If you need a place to reset both physically and spiritually, Bagno Vignoni is the town to visit.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Bagno Vignoni is a quaint medieval village known for its ancient thermal bath, which dates back to Roman times and is still in use today.

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a soak in the hot waters while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding rolling hills and vineyards.

With its unique charm and natural beauty, Bagno Vignoni is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tuscany in March.

7. Montepulciano

Montepulciano is another one of our favorite hilltop towns in Tuscany. You can’t really take a trip to Montepulciano without exploring the epic historic center, which offers some of the region’s most stunning architecture, including the Palazzo Comunale and the Duomo di Montepulciano.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb the Torre di Pulcinella to take in panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

While you’re there, make sure to sample the local wines at Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Arezzo is somewhat of a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. In March, however, the city truly comes to life with a variety of events and festivals, including the Giostra del Saracino. This one-of-a-kind medieval jousting tournament draws crowds from all over the world, taking visitors back in time to the medieval ages.

While in Arezzo, head to the Basilica di San Francesco. This beautiful church is home to some of the most important frescoes in Italy, including works by Piero della Francesca.

Lastly, we have Cortona , another beautiful hilltop town in Tuscany full of history and culture.

There’s no better way to start a day in Cortona than at the Piazza della Repubblica, which is the city’s central square. Here, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants, perfect for a morning coffee and a meal.

However, what Cortona is really known for are its museums, including the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca, which showcases numerous Etruscan artifacts, and the Fortezza Medicea, which is a 16th-century fortress turned museum, offering beautiful views of the countryside.

The Most Important Events in Tuscany in March

Palio dei somari (11th – 19th march – torrita di siena).

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐢 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢 (@paliodeisomari)

Palio dei Somari is a traditional festival that has taken place in Torrita di Siena for more than 50 years.

The main attraction of the festival is a race where jockeys ride donkeys around the town’s central square, competing for a grand prize. Alongside the race, you’ll find parades, music, and other medieval-style festivities.

Torciata di San Giuseppe (19th March)

If you want to take place in a visually stunning Tuscan event, look no further than Torciata di San Giuseppe.

This traditional festival, which takes place in Montepulciano, involves a procession of participants carrying torches through the town’s streets, culminating in a bonfire in Piazza Grande.

The festival is a celebration of spring’s arrival and nature’s rebirth after winter. It is also a tribute to Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, who is said to have saved the town from a devastating earthquake in the 18th century.

Capodanno Fiorentino (25th March)

This annual celebration of the New Year takes place in Florence, celebrating a time when Florence used the Julian calendar, which began the new year on March 25th.

You’ll get to see a parade of people dressed in traditional costumes from the Renaissance period, the lighting of the “Brindellone” to celebrate the city’s ancient pagan rituals, and a massive firework show to end it off.

It’s a unique and fascinating time-honored tradition that has been celebrated for centuries — a must for any trip to Tuscany in March

A Day Trip to Tuscany In March

There are near-infinite itineraries we could give you for a springtime Tuscany day trip, so instead, we’ll give you a few ideas to play your own itinerary:

• Visit Wineries: Tuscany is famous for its wines, so take advantage of your trip and visit some wineries. Some of our personal favorites include Antinori, Castello di Ama, and Tenuta dell’Ornellaia in Bolgheri .
• Explore Some Hill Towns: You’ll find plenty of charming hill towns throughout Tuscany, and March is an excellent time to visit them since there are fewer tourists. Pitigliano , Montalcino, and Montepulciano are some of our favorites.
• Enjoy the Views: Tuscany’s rolling hills and picturesque landscapes are a sight to behold, so be sure to set aside some time to take them in. A UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for its wines and cypress trees, Val d’Orcia would be our top choice if we had to pick just one location. Popular activities there include hiking, biking, and soaking in the breathtaking views.

Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers

Is Tuscany Nice in March?

Overall, Tuscany can be a nice destination to visit in March as long as you’re prepared for some variability in the weather and are flexible with your plans. The region is far less crowded than in summer, and travel costs are often lower!

What to Wear in Tuscany in March?

In March, Tuscany can have unpredictable weather, so it’s important to pack accordingly. Consider dressing in layers, bring comfortable walking shoes, and have a waterproof jacket handy for potential rain!

Is March a Good Time to Visit Florence?

March is a great time to visit Florence, as the weather is decent, crowds are smaller than in summer, travel-related costs are down, and there are still plenty of events and festivals to enjoy.

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• Campania 24

Florence in March: What to Do, What to Pack & More (2024)

Looking to visit florence in march you’ve come to the right place .

As one of Italy’s shoulder-season months, March is one of the best times to visit Florence!

With fewer crowds, cooler weather, and cheaper prices than peak tourist season, March is a great time to save money and avoid crowds in this popular tourist destination. 

I’ve partnered with my friend Cate from Intentional Traveling , who spent several weeks exploring Italy and is excited to share her experience of visiting Florence in March!

Let’s jump in!

• Florence in March

Top 8 Things to Do in Florence in March

While Florence is worth visiting any time of the year, it is particularly lovely in the spring! From its blossoming gardens to its festive New Year’s and Easter celebrations, Florence has plenty to offer this time of year. 

Here are some of the best things to do in Florence in March.

1. Celebrate the Traditional Florentine New Year

Date: March 25th each year

Did you know that Florence celebrates the New Year on March 25th?

That’s right! From the Middle Ages until 1750, Florence’s New Year began on March 25th every year.

This date commemorated the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her that she would be the mother of Christ, exactly 9 months before Christmas and the birth of Jesus.

Although the Florentine New Year now officially begins on January 1st, the Florentines still continue their traditional New Year celebrations on March 25th each year.

The day is celebrated with a grand parade and other New Year festivities. The historic parade typically begins in Piazza della Parte Guelfa , runs through Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza del Duomo , and ends in front of Santissima Annunziata (the Church of the Holy Annunciation).

You will also find many other local New Year activities taking place around the city!

2. Watch the Scoppio del Carro (the Explosion of the Cart)

Date and Location: Easter Sunday (beginning around 10 am), Piazza del Duomo

If you find yourself in Florence on Easter Sunday, you should not miss this unique and exciting Florence tradition: the Scoppio del Carro (or the Explosion of the Cart)!

This Florentine tradition dates back over 350 years. Every year on Easter Sunday, an ornate, 30-foot-high cart is filled with fireworks and rolled out to the Piazza del Duomo in front of the cathedral. 

The cart is typically pulled by a team of white oxen adorned with flowers and is usually accompanied by a number of musicians, locals dressed in elaborate Renaissance costumes, and crowds eagerly awaiting the “explosion of the cart.”

If you are standing in the square, you will hear the “Gloria” being sung from inside the cathedral.

Inside the Duomo, the cardinal will light a dove-shaped rocket and send it flying down a wire through the Duomo until it collides with the cart outside, igniting the fireworks in the cart and causing a spectacular display!

The fireworks display usually lasts around twenty minutes, while the bells of Giotto’s bell tower ring.

A successful Explosion of the Cart is traditionally meant to bring good luck and a bountiful harvest. If you are in Florence on Easter, don’t miss this memorable Florentine tradition!

3. Celebrate Dantedí (National Day of Dante)

Date : March 25

The Florentine New Year is not the only celebration that takes place on March 25th every year. Each year, Florence also celebrates Dantedí on March 25th in honor of the famous Italian author and poet, Dante Alighieri.

Dante was born in Florence in 1265 and is best known for his masterpiece, The Divine Comedy .

Here are a few places you can visit on Dantedí and learn more about Dante:

• Florence Duomo: The Florence Duomo is a must-visit on any trip to Florence! On Dantedí, be sure to go inside the Florence Duomo and look up at the ceiling of the dome. There, you will see The Last Judgment painting inspired by Dante’s Inferno . Entrance to the cathedral is free, but consider taking a guided tour to get priority access and climb to the top of the dome!
• Dante’s House (Casa di Dante): Visit the official Dante museum, which is also said to be the former residence of the Dante family. The museum offers discounted tickets on Dante Day.

4. Explore Florence’s Beautiful Gardens in the Spring

One of the best things to do in Florence in March is to explore its beautiful gardens while they are in bloom! Florence has many exquisite gardens. Two of the most famous are Boboli Gardens (behind Pitti Palace) and the nearby Bardini Gardens .

In March, visit Bardini Gardens and walk through the dreamy wisteria tunnel, which blossoms only in March and April! Both gardens also offer stunning panoramic views of Florence.

You can also book a private tour to both the Boboli Gardens and Bardini Gardens and get a local’s insight!

5. Shop Florence’s Local Markets

March is the perfect time to visit some of the many local markets in Florence ! Whether you are looking to try some delicious local foods, buy a leather bag or jacket, or shop for antiques, Florence’s markets are a great place to shop!

Here are a few of the best markets to visit in March:

• Mercato Centrale: This two-story market and food hall is one of the most popular markets in Florence with both tourists and locals! The market is open Monday to Friday from 7 am – 3 pm, and Saturday from 7 am – 5 pm. It is closed on Sundays.
• Mercato Sant’Ambrogio: This local food market is located in the Santa Croce neighborhood and has everything from cheese shops and bakeries to fresh produce stands. It is open Monday to Saturday from 7 am – 2 pm. It is closed on Sundays.
• Porcellino Market: This famous covered leather market is located under the ancient arches of Piazza del Mercato Nuovo. It is open every day from 9:00 am – 6:30 pm.
• Santo Spirito Vintage Market: This lesser-known antique market is held in Piazza Santo Spirito, an authentic local neighborhood on the other side of the Arno River. The market is held on the second Sunday of every month.

Tip: Bring small cash (euros) with you when visiting the markets in Florence. While some vendors take credit cards, some only accept cash, so it is best to be prepared!

6. Visit Florence’s Best Museums Without the Crowds

One of the advantages of visiting Florence in March (particularly early March) is that you can enjoy many of Florence’s best museums without the crowds!

One of the best museums in Florence is The Uffizi Gallery. This world-famous art gallery is home to one of the finest collections of Renaissance art.

Here, you will find marble sculptures and paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Botticelli, Caravaggio, and other renowned Italian artists. The Uffizi Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 am – 6:30 pm.

Another museum to visit in Florence in March is The Accademia Gallery. This gallery houses Michelangelo’s most famous work, the 17-foot high marble statue of David.

Michelangelo created this amazing statue when he was just 26 years old! The Accademia Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 am – 6:50 pm.

Although Florence is far less crowded in March than in the summer months, we still recommend booking skip-the-line tickets or tours of the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery in advance to guarantee you have a spot!

7. Enjoy Festa della Donna (International Women’s Day)

Date: March 8th

Every year on March 8th, Florence celebrates International Women’s Day. On this day, admission to the Uffizi Gallery, Bargello National Museum, Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens is free for women!

You will also find storefronts and restaurants adorned with yellow mimosa flowers on this day. The tradition in Florence is to give these yellow flowers as a gift to the women in your life.

8. Take a Day Trip to the Tuscan Countryside

One of the best things about visiting Florence is its accessibility to the Tuscan hill towns! 

Florence makes a perfect base for exploring the Tuscan countryside. By taking a train, you can easily get to Pisa, San Gimignano, Lucca, or Siena in under two hours. We would definitely recommend visiting at least one of these small Tuscan hill towns on your trip!

While you can certainly explore these charming towns on your own, if you would rather visit several towns in one day, we would suggest booking this well-rated day trip from Florence , which stops in Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa, and includes lunch at a beautiful Tuscan winery.

Weather in March in Florence

The weather in Florence in March is very nice. With highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s, March weather in Florence can be a little cold but overall is very pleasant! You can also expect some rain during your visit, as it usually rains around eight days in March.

If you have more time on your trip and are looking for where to go next, Venice is a wonderful city to visit in March as well!

What to Pack for Florence in March

Since the weather can be cold and there may be some rain, here are a few recommendations on what to pack for Florence in March: 

• Layered tops
• Lightweight waterproof jacket or rain jacket
• Water-resistant shoes or boots  
• Small, portable umbrella in case of unexpected showers

Also, while the weather may be cold, don’t forget your sunglasses ! Even with cooler temperatures, the sun still shines bright in Florence in March, so you will be glad you brought your shades when you’re taking in those spectacular views.

What to Eat in Florence in March

Florence is known for its mouthwatering Tuscan cuisine. From hearty pasta and Neapolitan pizza to Florentine steak and gelato, Florence has it all. 

Here are a few local sweet treats to try in Florence in March:

• Frittelle : These deliciously sweet, soft pastries are fried and covered in sugar. More importantly, they are only made this time of year! Frittelle is specifically made for Father’s Day, which is celebrated on March 19th in Italy, and can be found in pastry shops all over the city.
• Schiacciata alla Fiorentina : This traditional flat Florentine cake is marked by its orange, zesty flavor. Pop into Pasticceria Giorgio or Caffè Gilli to try a piece of this delicious cake.
• Gelato : While it may be a little chilly in March, it’s worth bundling up to have some Florentine gelato! We personally loved the Gelateria la Carraia, which is located just on the other side of the Arno River.

For a really fun and memorable experience, consider taking a cooking class in Florence to learn how to make your own pasta, pizza, gelato, or tiramisu! We took a pasta-making class in Florence on our most recent trip, and it was one of our favorite experiences!

Where to Stay in Florence in March

For your visit to Florence in March, we recommend staying at least 2 nights. Generally, the hotel prices in March are cheaper than in the summer months.

The exception is during Easter weekend when Florence can be very crowded, so you will definitely want to book your accommodations as early as possible!

Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Florence in March:

Helvetia & Bristol Firenze

Book this his luxury 5-star hotel set in a historic residence in the heart of Florence. It is only a five-minute walk from the Duomo and just a few steps away from Via de Tornabuoni, the most famous shopping street in Florence.

Corte Calziuoli Elegant Suites

Check out this elegant bed and breakfast , which is located in the city center, just a short walk away from all of the main sights and attractions. It gets excellent reviews.

Brunelleschi Hotel

• Book this historic hotel set in a medieval church overlooking the Duomo. It has great reviews and is ideally located in the center of Florence.

How to Get Around Florence in March

The best way to get around Florence in March is simply by walking. If you are staying in the city center (near the Duomo), all of the main sights will be within a short walking distance. 

Since the weather can be chilly in March, wear layers and bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket when walking around the city!

We do not recommend renting a car while in Florence. Much like in Rome, the traffic in Florence is crazy! However, you can conveniently book a private transfer to and from the airport to get to your hotel!

Tips for Visiting Florence in March

Here are a few important tips for visiting Florence in March to make the most of your trip:

• Early March is generally less crowded than late March. As you get closer to April, more and more people will start trickling in.
• Book your accommodations early, especially if visiting over Easter weekend. Easter weekend is one of the more popular times to visit Florence, so make sure you book your accommodations as soon as you know your travel dates!
• Book tickets to the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and Brunelleschi’s Dome in advance to guarantee a spot. Even in early March, it is best to book these main sights in advance to make sure you don’t miss out!
• Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket or umbrella when walking around the city. It is best to be prepared for temperature fluctuations and light rain showers throughout the day!

Final Thoughts: Florence in March

March is a wonderful time of the year to visit Florence! With fewer people, cheaper prices, and cooler weather than in peak tourist season, visiting Florence in March is a great way to save some money on accommodations and enjoy this amazing city without the crowds. 

Whether you want to celebrate the traditional Florentine New Year, watch the exciting Explosion of the Cart, or enjoy Florence’s exquisite gardens in the spring, you are sure to enjoy your time in Florence in March!

Ready to visit Italy? Check out these travel resources!

• 2 Days in Rome
• Half Day Tours in Rome
• Milan or Florence?
• Best Foodie Cities in Europe
• That One Time I Got Lost

Author Bio: Cate is the owner and author of Intentional Traveling . She is a wife and homemaker who also loves to travel! Her goal is to provide you with practical travel itineraries, tips, and guides to simplify your travel planning to help you make the most of your time on each trip.

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My Favorite Travel Tips + Resources

Here is a quick glance at all my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan every trip! For more information, check out my travel resources page .

• Booking flights: I use Google Flights to check all routes and find the best flights. Then I compare Skyscanner (for the lowest prices) before I book.
• For hotels, I go through Booking.com or book directly with Marriott (for points + rewards).
• When I travel internationally, I’ll book through Hostelworld for very budget-friendly stays.
• For vacation rentals, use Vrbo or Marriott Homes & Villas .
• Expedia also has some great bundles for hotels, flights, and car rentals altogether.
• Car Rentals: I love renting cars through Discover Cars . They have been consistent and provide the best customer service.
• Trains in Asia: Trip.com has the best options!
• Trains in Europe: Trainline or Omio .
• Visa Application: For a hassle-free process, apply for your visa from iVisa .
• Travel Credit Card: I book all my travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) through Chase Sapphire .
• Vaccines and Medications: Check the CDC website for updates on necessary vaccines to enter a country, including updates on Covid-19 and recommended places to visit. I recommend getting all the vaccines you need before you go!
• Tours + Experiences: I absolutely love my tours! Everything from eerie walking ghost tours to food tours, I’ll usually book something every trip either through Viator or GetYourGuide .
• Entertainment: Looking for entertainment like sporting events, theater shows, or concerts? Book with Ticket Squeeze !
• Tech : Keep your internet browsing safe, secure, and fast with ExpressVPN
• Language Learning: The best place to learn a new language is through Babbel as you travel to countries you don’t know the language.
• What to Pack: I almost always travel by backpack . For products I like, check out my packing guide page for all the things I take with me on different trips.

Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Pafoua writes from her numerous excursions about all things travel, from fun itineraries to creating memorable experiences on the road. When she’s not traveling, Pafoua loves a fun board game night with her friends or is snuggled up reading a good book. You can find her on Instagram @herwanderfulworld.

What to Wear to Italy in March (And What Not to Pack)

I spent over a month contemplating what to wear in Italy in March. The travel itinerary would lead me through the northern region, to places with the average temperature of 60-degrees Fahrenheit and light rain, so packing would be no simple task (is it ever?).

I definitely didn’t get the packing thing exactly right the first time around, but there were a lot of lessons learned that I can share with you, so you don’t make the same mistakes as me.

How to Dress in Italy: What to Wear to Italy in March & What Not to Pack in Spring

Just like many destinations, travel fashion in Italy really does depend on the area you are in. The bigger the city the more trendy, and the smaller the town the more laid back. There is no rule that you have to dress as the Italians do, but if you don’t want to stand out as a tourist there are a few simple tips to follow.

Weather in Italy in March

Of course the weather depends on the exact location in Italy, but in general in March the weather in northern Italy ranges from 35-55°F and gets slightly warmer the more south you go. Due to the chilly weather, March is still the shoulder season, but this may make it the perfect time to visit (it was for me!). Anytime you can get to Italy when there is less traffic on the streets and at the attractions it makes for a better experience.

Keep in mind that many Italians dress for the season, not the weather. It doesn’t matter if the sun is out, if it is October they will be wearing their Fall clothes. Even on the sunny afternoons, I saw people bundled in their coats and scarves. I had brought a few sleeveless blouses for going out to dinner, though quickly found that even though the restaurants were warm, no one really wore anything that could be considered summer-time clothing.

What to Wear in Italy in March

• All types of Boots. Though I am a big fan of knee-high boots, most locals these days are wearing ankle or mid-calf boots. Here are some of my favorite travel boots .
• Thick Peacoat. Something that can be worn with a dress or a pair of jeans.
• Small messenger and cross-body bags. Nordstroms has a great variety of bags in all different shapes and sizes.
• Dark skinny jeans. Either dark blue or dark gray were the most popular.
• Cool, European-style tennis/walking shoes.  See some examples here .
• Low-top Converse .
• Dark, muted colors.  When in doubt, black or gray are always safe choices. Very few people will be wearing anything too bright or fluorescent.

What NOT to Wear in Italy in March

• White tennis shoes. Unless they are Converse!
• Classic Fanny packs. Instead opt for a trendy leather one .
• Bright colors.
• Printed Souvenir T-shirts. Stay away from wearing any “I Love XYZ” t-shirts.
• Baseball hats.
• Sports/Camping Backpacks.
• Light colored jeans or white pants.

Things I Should Not Have Packed (But Did)

• High heels. It takes skill to walk the cobbled streets of Italy without tripping, a skill that I do not have. Plus, you will be walking a lot!
• Bright Red Jacket.

Things I Should Have Packed for Italy, But Didn’t

• More scarves. It would have been nice to have a couple different colors to accessorize with.
• A simple knit hat. 

Go to My Trip to Northern Italy, Day 1 & 2

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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17 thoughts on “What to Wear to Italy in March (And What Not to Pack)”

This was fabulously helpful. The pictures were perfect!! Im about to start packing for my trip in 2 weeks and this was exactly what I needed to see. Thanks!

I’m so happy it helped. I always go crazy when trying to figure out what to wear while traveling. Have a wonderful trip, Italy is amazing :)

This is helpful – thanks! Need more advice. My husband and I are going Feb. 22 – Mar. 4 to Rome and Florence.  We are going with our four boys (17, 14, 12 and 9).  They typically wear jeans, and long-sleeved shirts (tees and stuff). They have enough non-logo stuff… But they are going to want to wear their tennis shoes. I'm kinda nervous now! Do I have to buy them a new wardrobe!?

Have a wonderful time in Italy! My hubby wears white tennis shoes on every trip we have ever been on with absolutely no problems :) Though I like to fit in, it is more important to be comfortable for the miles…and miles…of walking you will be doing.

I got the idea of what to wear. i already told my friend, lots of leggings and different color and texture of scarves!  Spring or winter coat?  I'm from Ohio, a winter coat means winter!

You definitely can’t go wrong with with leggings and colored scarves. Many people were wearing winter jackets, but I got by just fine with a sweater, scarve and Spring coat. Though, make sure to check the weather before going.

Thanks for the great tips Annette! I'm going to France and Italy in March and wasn't sure if boots were fashionable. I don't want to look like a tourist, so I'm glad everything you have suggested is pretty much what I was hoping.

The last time I was in Europe (Spain & Londong), after this trip, ankle boots were all the rage!! I had brought comfy knee high boots, which were fine, but I bought me some ankle boots as soon as I got home :) Have fun!!!

Hi Annette,

I will be in Italy March 16-26. Just curious if you think knee high suede wedge boots would be ok?

Also I was thinking of my frye low harness boot.

I’m also bringing knee high riding boots & wedge sneakers.

Thanks, Loree

Hello Loree, I was back to Italy a few weeks ago and all types of boots were popular, especially ankle boots. I saw a few converse style tennis shoes too. My first trip I brought a wedged boot and it worked out fine. Though, keep in mind that there is typically A LOT of walking that needs to be done in Italy and many of the streets a cobbled. So, most importantly, wear something comfortable. Usually on my winter/spring trips I bring two types of shoes, a flat boot that can be dressed up or down and a tennis shoe. I typically would only bring a heeled shoe if I was doing something really fancy. Also, keep in mind that Italy has great shopping :) Have fun!

Thanks for the great tips! I’ve been trying to research what to wear as my husband and I will be traveling to Venice for several days at the end of March. It’s kind of daunting trying to figure out what to take when all we will each have is a suitcase that is carry-on size. Any tips for absolute basics?

so, i leave in two days for a week in late April — weather 60-70 and cloudy and showers are forecast every day! We’ll be in Florence, Tuscany, Cinque terre and Venice. For travel like this, I usually bring trendy jeans and dresses that I can layer with scarves, light sweaters and chic ponchos. My plan was to bring trendy sneakers (think sneakers with a cute dress), a flat sandal and one chunky sandal. The rain has me off my game. Help please with footwear. I don’t want soaked feet, but I also don’t want to lug my hiking boots or my trendy black rainboots (which give me sweaty feet anyway). Thanks!

Now when I travel in the weather you described I almost always bring just one pair of shoes, a pair of boots. My go-to boot is Clarks ( similar to these ) because they are cute enough to wear with a dress, are comfy enough to walk all day in and have enough traction to even do some light hiking in!

That was so helpful. Thank you

Hi Annette! Very useful post. I’m planning to visit Italy very soon. Your suggestions will help me a lot. Thanks for nice post.

It’s March in Italy! We do agree with everything you’ve listed! The weather now in Milan is lovely, but you can’t really go out without a jacket and scarf (and mask these days). We hope you’ll be back in Italy soon!

Thank you for writing this article! This gave me ideas!

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12 Hidden Gems in Italy Perfect for a Summer Escape in 2024

Posted: March 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 23, 2024

Italy’s most popular tourist destinations have a downside. While they’re beautiful, historic, and full of intrigue, they get so crowded it can be hard to appreciate them.

So, between visits to Rome, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast, why not also visit some of the country’s lesser-known locations? Here are 12 particularly special hidden gems in Italy to explore in 2024.

Bergamo is a small city in Lombardy, northern Italy, about an hour from Milan by car. While the modern part of Bergamo isn’t much to write home about, its old, medieval center is stunning.

It feels quintessentially Italian. Expect charming, maze-like cobblestone streets, expansive piazzas lined with bars and restaurants, age-old buildings with beautiful architecture, and amazing views from its 16th-century  town walls.

2. Lago d’Iseo

Most tourists exploring northern Italy’s lakes flock to Lake Garda or Como. However, between those famous bodies of water is another that’s equally beautiful – and less touristy.

Lago d’Iseo (Lake Iseo) is great for cooling off on hot days; mountains surround it, and there’s an island at its center called Monte Isola, which is fun to explore. Throw in its lively lakefront bars and restaurants, and Lago d’Iseo is another hidden gem in Italy.

3. Lago di Braies

On the topic of beautiful lakes, Lake Braies near the Dolomites deserves special mention. It’s not exactly hidden , per see.

Many tourists visit to see its magical turquoise waters and snowcapped mountains. However, the lake is slightly off-the-beaten path. To get there, you have to visit the far northeast of Italy, close to the Austrian border.

4. Pontremoli

This hidden gem in northern Tuscany offers a taste of traditional, off-the-tourist-trail Italy. A historic market town at the foot of the Apennine Mountains, Pontremoli offers bucket-loads of old-world charm and easy access to nature.

Expect baroque cathedrals, medieval bridges, two beautiful rivers, and quaint piazzas bustling with locals.

5. Castelmezzano

Few Italian towns have a location as unique as Castelmezzano. Picturesque is an understatement – it’s like something from a fairytale.

You’ll find it in the Dolomiti Lucane mountain range in southern Italy’s Basilicata region. Expect traditional terracotta rooves sandwiched between mountain peaks, with panoramic views over the area. History, adventure, and outdoor opportunities await.

Most people looking for a taste of medieval Italy head straight to Florence. However, if you want a similar level of beauty, history, and intrigue with fewer crowds, go to Gubbio .

The small hilltop destination in Umbria is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the country. There are cobblestone streets, Gothic palaces, 13 th -century cathedrals, and even a Roman amphitheater. Monte Ingino towers above the town, too, offering terrific opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

7. Canale di Tenno

A short bus ride from Riva del Garda – a small town at the northern end of Lake Garda – is Canale di Tenno.

This 13 th century village tucked away in the hills is as hidden and unique as Italian towns get! Expect stone buildings and streets that haven’t changed in centuries, with outstanding views of the surrounding area. The village is next-door to beautiful Lake Tenno, as well.

8. Trabocchi Coast

Abruzzo, southern Italy, is home to a 70km stretch of Adriatic coast named after the old fishing structures, called trabocchi , dotted along it.

Built on stilts that rise up from the water, these unique wooden platforms date back hundreds of years. Their original purpose? To enable locals to fish in waters too treacherous for boats. Wooden arms extend outward, dropping fishing nets into the deep waters below.

Nowadays, many of these trabocchi have been converted into restaurants. Visit for a unique slice of coastal Italian history and dinner with a view!

9. Val di Non

Val di Non means something like “non valley” or “valley of nothing.” But don’t be fooled by the name. This district of Trentino in northeastern Italy enchants visitors with natural beauty, endless apple tree orchards, and legions of age-old castles.

Better yet, it’s far less traveled than neighboring South Tyrol. Aside from the locals, you’ll have this photogenic valley, complete with lakes, canyons, and waterfalls, almost to yourself.

10. Aosta Valley

The mountainous Aosta Valley, bordering Switzerland and France in northwest Italy, looks and sounds magical. Expect alpine scenery, giant castles, medieval towns, and endless outdoor opportunities.

Its natural attractions aren’t the only appeal, either. The city of Aosta is called “the Rome of the Alps” for its wealth of ancient archaeological sites. There aren’t many other places in the world where you can see snowcapped mountains casting shadows over millennia-old Roman ruins.

11. Civita di Bagnoregio

You’re unlikely to visit anywhere else quite like Civita di Bagnoregio on your travels around Italy (or the world, for that matter). An ancient city perched atop a rocky knoll overlooking an enormous canyon, it is worth seeing simply for the location. Everything else is a bonus.

Access is via a footbridge that leads to a stone passageway first hewn 2,500 years ago by the Etruscans – an ancient entrance that acts as a portal to the Middle Ages. Civita seems frozen in time. Expect cobblestone streets, piazzas, palaces, and one point of historical intrigue after another.

12. Garfagnaga

Garfagnana is a large valley in the province of Lucca, Tuscany, renowned for its natural beauty and rich history.

Get ready for rugged mountains and verdant rolling hills, plus more medieval villages and impressive castles, like the Verrucole Fortress. It’s also close to one of Tuscany’s most unique attractions, the Devil’s Bridge (aka, Ponte della Maddalena) in Borgo a Mozzano.

MORE TRAVEL ARTICLES LIKE THIS COMING UP:

14 Unmissable Things to Do In Italy (North and South Suggestions)

Looking for the best things to do in Italy? Whether you’re exploring the north or south, read on to discover a bunch of amazing options for your Italy itinerary.

14 UNMISSABLE THINGS TO DO IN ITALY

Useful Maps of Italy for Planning Your Bel Paese Adventures

Are you looking for a map of Italy to help plan your trip or to display at home? Here’s a collection of Italy maps that should do the trick. Click to see the locations of its most famous cities and regions. 

USEFUL MAPS OF ITALY FOR PLANNING YOUR BEL PAESE ADVENTURES  

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Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Thursday 25 April 2024 10:29, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes