As winter ends and spring begins, March signals the start of the travel season, and many people are eager to embark on new adventures. However, with so many travel destinations to choose from and a backlog of places to visit, how can you narrow down your options and pick the perfect getaway for you?
March is a popular time for travellers to embark on their adventures, and while there are numerous destinations to choose from, some stand out above the rest. Travel experts, including advisors, journalists, trendsetters, and bloggers, have shared their favourite places to visit during this time of year. From vibrant cities to serene beaches, here are some of the best places to travel in March according to these experts.
1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
According to Suzie Dundas (Travel Expert), Puerto Vallarta, located on the Bay of Banderas in southern Mexico, is the perfect destination to visit in spring. In March, the rainy season is coming to an end, and it’s also the end of the whale-watching season. This means visitors can expect sunny and warm days, with opportunities to spot humpback whales. Since the peak tourist season doesn’t start until late April, restaurants are usually easy to get into without a reservation, and hotels offer lower pricing due to the slow season.
Where to Stay
- Mariott Puerto Vallarta
2. Santiago, Chile
Amanda Ogle (Travel Journalist) recommends visiting Santiago, the capital and largest city of Chile, as it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Chile or as a standalone destination. Santiago is home to several public parks, cultural centres, museums, restaurants and historical landmarks.
Amanda suggests trying out the ever-changing endemic menu at Borago which is amongst the World’s Top 50 Restaurants or going for wine tasting at Haras de Pirque vineyard, known for its underground tasting and barrel room beneath a fountain. For authentic Chilean cuisine with a show, she recommends visiting Lo Pirque. March is an ideal time to visit Santiago as the crowds are starting to dwindle, and prices begin to decrease. Additionally, the transitioning of the summer to the autumn season in March offers a chance to witness the fall foliage.
Where to Stay
- Ritz Carlton Santiago
3. Sonoma County, California, U.S.
According to Abbie Synan (Travel Advisor for Fora and Travel Blogger), Sonoma is a perfect destination for wine lovers during spring. Unlike Napa Valley, Sonoma is less crowded and has a more relaxed atmosphere. Synan added that visiting Sonoma during spring provides an opportunity to truly connect with the land through farm-to-table agro-tourism, vineyard tours and hiking in coastal state parks and forests. Additionally, the weather is typically sunny but temperate during this time, making it an ideal season to visit.
Where to Stay
- Macarthur Place
4. Noto, Sicily, Italy
Brandon Berkson (Founder of Hotels Above Par and HAP Concierge), believes that Noto is an underrated Sicilian town that travellers should have on their list. He shared that Noto is often overlooked by tourists heading to Taormina, but it boasts a local-heavy feel, especially during the off-season in March.
Noto is known for its beautiful Baroque-style buildings made of limestone, which create a honey-like glow at sunset. Berkson suggests visiting Noto’s public gardens, Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata and Church of Francesco which are all notable landmarks.
Where to Stay
- Palazzo Alvear Luxury Villas
5. Miami, Florida
Miami is the perfect destination for a March getaway, according to Stacey Lastoe (Travel Writer and Editor). She noted that after a long winter, it’s essential to get some sun and sand, and Miami has an unbeatable combination of lively energy and prime beach locations.
Additionally, Lastoe mentioned that Miami’s downtown is experiencing a significant revitalization, with new restaurants, wine bars, hotels, and boutiques popping up all over. She also recommended starting your day with a cafecito and a pastelito de guayaba y queso from one of the city’s many Cuban cafes before heading to the Underline, an outdoor park on the Riverfront that’s transforming Miami’s public spaces.
Where to Stay
- The Setai
6. Scotland
Springtime in Scotland is a great time to visit as it offers mild weather and fewer crowds. According to Catherine Reilly (Managing Director of Brendan Vacations), Edinburgh is a must-see destination, where travellers can explore historic sites like Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle to learn about the city’s rich history.
The Lowlands and Highlands are also ideal spots to visit in March due to the mild weather. The Lowlands offer iconic destinations like St. Andrews, known for its medieval architecture and prestigious university, while the Highlands offer exciting options like the Glenlivet Distillery and Cardhu Distillery, both famous landmarks for spirits. Adventurous travellers can head to Inverness to witness the beauty of Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye.
Where to Stay
- The Fife Arms
7. Northern Wisconsin, U.S.
According to Jacqueline Kehoe (Midwest-Based Travel Journalist and Photographer), Northern Wisconsin is an excellent destination for a heartland escape any time of year, particularly in March. She noted that as the snow melts, winter crowds depart, and the waterfalls roar back to life. For instance, visitors can see the state’s tallest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls, which is only a few feet shorter than Niagara Falls. For easy access to these falls, Kehoe suggests staying in Superior, located in the northwestern corner of the state.
Alternatively, Marinette County alone boasts 15 waterfalls, most of which are in the county parks system. Kehoe recommends staying in Marinette, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, for a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty, particularly the many waterfalls.
Where to Stay
- Airbnb
8. British Virgin Islands
Alexandra Owens (Travel and Food Writer) suggests the British Virgin Islands for those who seek a warmer getaway. March is an excellent month to visit, as it is relatively dry and has a steady wind that creates perfect sailing conditions.
With around 50 islands, cays, and islets, the best way to explore the BVIs is by chartering a crewed catamaran from Navigare Yachting and travelling by sea. Spending some time cruising the turquoise waters, eating lobster on the deck, and discovering hidden coves are highly recommended activities.
Where to Stay
- Rosewood Little Dix Bay Virgin Gorda
9. Sydney, Australia
Reuben Mourad (Travel and Food Journalist) fondly reminisces about his hometown Sydney in March. He highlights the idyllic weather, with warm afternoons perfect for a surf or beach visit, and the stunning natural surroundings, including the harbour, mountains, and beaches.
According to Mourad, March is a time of settled contentment in Sydney, as the harsh summer heat begins to subside, but the warmth lingers on. He describes Sydney as a unique city, full of captivating natural beauty.
Where to Stay
- Pier One Sydney Harbour
10. New York City, New York
March is a great time to visit New York City, as the low tourism season begins to wind down. Visitors can take advantage of lower hotel rates, discounted Broadway tickets, and fewer crowds at popular attractions. As the weather starts to warm up, Central Park comes back to life, making it the perfect time to take a stroll and enjoy the fresh air. With so much to see and do in New York City, visitors can experience the city’s unique energy without the overwhelming crowds that can sometimes take away from the experience.
Where to Stay
- Pendry Manhattan West
