Spring is just around the corner, but these days March can be colder than ever in the UK.
Luckily, it’s a wonderful month to visit other parts of the world, including areas of Southeast Asia, Africa and South America. European destinations such as Cyprus and Malta also provide respite from winter weather, so you don’t have to go far to catch some rays.
In many countries, March is considered ‘shoulder season’ – meaning you’ll avoid the crowds that flock to holiday hotspots for summer. Metro‘s travel insiders have rounded up 19 places where you’re guaranteed sunshine in March.
So, where should you jet off to?
March sunny escapes:
Where is it hot in Europe in March?
Cyprus
Temperature: 18ºC (up to 20°C)
Sunshine hours: Seven hours
Flight time: Four hours, 30 minutes
Cyprus is always a winner, in summer or shoulder season.
Temperatures are pleasant at this time of year, ranging between 12°C and 18°C. It does get cooler in the evenings (somewhere around 9ºC), so pack a jumper or light jacket for nighttime.
The island has something for everyone. Classic resorts such as Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca are perfect for relaxing by the beach and enjoying Mediterranean cuisine.
If you’re after a bit of culture, Nicosia has museums, galleries, and a fascinating mix of modern and ancient architecture.
Nature lovers can head to the Troodos Mountains for hikes, charming villages and breathtaking views.
And if you’re down to party, there’s always Ayia Napa with its lively nightlife and beach clubs, perfect for dancing the night away.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Cyprus start from £28 on Skyscanner. Alternatively, all-inclusive packages with Tui run from £310 per person, with flights, accommodation in a four-star hotel, and a four-night stay included.
Fuerteventura, The Canary Islands
Temperature: 17°C (up to 20°C)
Sunshine hours: Seven hours
Flight time: Four hours, 15 minutes
Fuerteventura, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, lies off the northwest coast of Africa, offering warm and pleasant weather year-round.
While it’s a slightly longer flight than other European holiday spots, the island’s unique charm makes it worth the journey.
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by sweeping sandy beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear waters.
For adventure seekers, windsurfing and kiteboarding along the island’s famous coastline are some of the best things to do.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, visit Corralejo Natural Park, where rolling sand dunes meet stunning views, or wander through Betancuria, a picturesque historic town nestled in the mountains.
And don’t forget to taste Fuerteventura’s famous goat cheese, a local delicacy that gives you a true taste of the island.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Lanzarote start from £36. All-inclusive packages with easyJet Holidays start from £220 per person, inclusive of flights and accommodation for four nights.
If you prefer a hotel stay, the Gran Castillo Tagoro Family & Fun Playa Blanca offers rooms from £205 per night, with a four-night stay for two people.
Gozo, Malta
Temperature: 16°C (up to 18°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Three hours, 10 minutes (to mainland Malta)
The archipelago of Malta sits below Italy and off the coast of Tunisia, giving it a typical Mediterranean climate.
It’s one of the better flight times on this list, with a trip from the UK to the main island taking just over three hours. But if you’ve seen Valletta and want to see another side of Malta – why not hop on a ferry to its second-biggest island, Gozo?
Travel time will be added to your trip, yes, but you can stay on Gozo for several days (in some rather lovely hotels).
Here, you’ll explore the city of Victoria’s medieval citadel, as well as rocky bays, ancient temples, basilicas, and sandy beaches.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Valletta start from £32. Hotels on the island typically range from £40 to £50 per night.
Seville, Spain
Temperature: 16°C (up to 21°C)
Sunshine hours: Seven hours
Flight time: Two hours, 45 minutes
You can’t expect too much sun from Europe in March, but the southwestern Spanish city of Seville should warm your soul.
There’s a chance you could experience temperatures of 21°C, but even the average 16°C is ideal for exploring the city.
Architecture is Seville’s number one selling point – it’s filled with world-class examples of Baroque, Renaissance, and Moorish Revival designs.
Check out the Cathedral, admire the Royal Alcazar (a palace you’ll have spotted in the hit HBO series Game Of Thrones) and wander the 1920s Plaza de España to admire its thousands of ceramic tiles.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Seville start from £32, with accommodation in four-star hotels from £61 a night.
Tenerife, The Canary Islands
Temperature: 18°C (up to 22°C)
Sunshine hours: Seven hours
Flight time: Four hours, 30 minutes
Few will be shocked to see this Canary Island on our March list – it was on our February list too, but it is an unbeatable choice for winter sun.
The reason is simple: Tenerife, though part of Spain, is geographically located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa, making it warmer than much of mainland Europe all year round.
Nature lovers can explore the lush forests of Anaga Rural Park, or marvel at the unique rock formations of the Teide National Park.
History and architecture enthusiasts should visit the historic city of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There’s also dolphin and whale-watching along the coast and day trips to nearby La Gomera island for breathtaking scenery.
Don’t miss Tenerife’s lively local markets, where you can pick up fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Tenerife start from £28, with nights in four-star hotels from £50.
Where is it hot in March for long-haul holidays?
Barbados
Temperature: 25°C (up to 30°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Eight hours, 45 minutes
Soak up the sun this March in the Caribbean paradise of Barbados, where temperatures hover around a blissful 30ºC.
Relax on world-famous beaches like Crane Beach or Carlisle Bay, where soft sands and crystal-clear waters await.
For the adventurous, try snorkeling with sea turtles, paddleboarding, or surfing at the Soup Bowl, one of the best surf spots in the Caribbean.
And, of course, no trip to Barbados would be complete without sampling its world-renowned rum. Take a tour of the Mount Gay Rum Distillery or enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise with a drink in hand to truly embrace the island vibe.
Getting there and staying there: Flights average from £346 to Barbados in March, with four-star hotel stays coming to around £179 a night.
Brisbane, Australia
Temperature: 24°C (up to 29°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: 23+ hours
Things may cool off slightly in Brisbane in March, but with temperatures sitting at a balmy 24ºC, it’s still a far cry from the UK chill.
The capital of Queensland is famed for its lush green parks and scenic riverside beauty, but there’s so much more to discover here.
Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, home to over 70 species of Australian wildlife, or a visit to the stunning Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mount Coot-tha, which offers incredible city views.
For adventurers, take a kayak along the Brisbane River, cycle through the South Bank Parklands, or hike up to Kangaroo Point Cliffs for a spectacular sunset.
Brisbane is the perfect blend of city life, nature, and adventure.
Getting there and staying there: There are no direct flights from the UK to Brisbane. Connecting flights with single stopovers start from £600, whilehotel stays start from £60 to £100 a night.
Cancun, Mexico
Temperature: 26°C (up to 30°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: 10.5 hours
With its vibrant nightlife, turquoise waters, and pristine white-sand beaches, it’s no wonder that Cancun in Mexico is a favourite for March.
You can dive into the region’s rich history and culture with a visit to the stunning Yucatan ruins of Tulum or head to the world-famous Mayan archaeological site of Chichén Itzá, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For adventure seekers, explore the underwater world by snorkelling or diving at the Great Mesoamerican Reef, or take a dip in one of the region’s magical cenotes.
Getting there and staying there: Flights from London to Cancun with Virgin Atlantic start at £505. Accommodation is more affordable, with hotel deals beginning at just £30 per night.
Cartagena, Colombia
Temperature: 26°C (up to 31°C)
Sunshine hours:Eight hours
Flight time: 12 hours, 35 minutes
Most major cities in Colombia are poised to give you the March hot holiday you’re looking for.
There’s Bogota, Medellin and Cali to choose from – but perhaps Cartagena is the prettiest.
Set along the northern coast, it’s known for its UNESCO-recognised walled city, which dates back to the 16th century. Expect to see great art and visit fascinating museums.
You’ll also be a boat ride away from one of Colombia’s national parks, Rosario Islands, which is known for its excellent snorkelling opportunities.
Getting there and staying there: Flights from London to Cartagena start at approximately £311 return. Four-star hotels typically range from £40 to £100 per night.
Costa Rica
Temperature: 25°C (up to 28°C)
Sunshine hours:Seven hours
Flight time: 11 hours
March is the perfect time to make the most of this incredible destination with ideal weather.
If you love beaches, head to Tamarindo for surfing or Santa Teresa for a more relaxed vibe. For adventure, visit Arenal Volcano National Park to hike trails and soak in hot springs, or zip-line through Monteverde’s cloud forest.
Make sure you don’t miss the Nayuca Waterfall, an off-the-beaten-path gem, where a short hike leads you to a stunning waterfall and natural pool.
If wildlife is more your thing, Tortuguero’s canals are a must, offering a chance to see turtles, monkeys, and tropical birds.
And head to San José so you can immerse yourself in local culture, from bustling markets to delicious food.
Getting there and staying there: In March, return flights from London to Costa Rica average around £553, with hotels starting from £60 a night.
Cuba
Temperature: 24°C (up to 27°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: 10 hours
Cuba’s unique charm lies in its ability to feel like a world apart, shaped by its rich history.
In Havana, you’ll be transported to a bygone era as you wander streets lined with colourful, weathered buildings and vintage cars cruising by.
Beyond the capital, relax on the island’s pristine white-sand beaches, such as Varadero or Playa Ancón, where turquoise waters and swaying palms set the perfect scene for a tropical escape.
From sipping on world-famous mojitos to immersing yourself in the island’s rich culture, Cuba promises an unforgettable escape this spring.
Getting there and staying there: Flights from London to Cuba start from £488, with hotels from £40 per night.
Grenada, The Caribbean
Temperature: 26°C (up to 30°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: 11 hours
The Caribbean country of Grenada may be relatively small, but it shouldn’t be underestimated.
It has three main islands: Grenada itself, plus the smaller Carricou and Petite Martinique, and a few others (including the ludicrously costly private island Calivigny).
Of its golden beaches, Magazine, Levera, Morne Rouge and Grand Anse are probably the best, so you can’t go wrong with accommodation nearby.
But in your search for sea and sand, don’t miss out on the capital St George’s, and a walk along its picturesque Carenage harbour.
Nature lovers will also have plenty more to appreciate beyond the beach. Make plans to explore Grand Etang Lake, Concord Falls or Annandale Forest Park, if you can.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Grenada with one stopover start from £478. Four-star hotels from around £80 a night.
Hawaii
Temperature: 24°C (up to 26°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: 18 hours (with one-stop, no direct flights).
Alas, Hawaii isn’t in the shoulder season in March. But the views are guaranteed to be gorgeous.
As is the weather. Temperatures are perfectly placed in the mid-20s, and while you may experience the odd snap shower of rain, it’s far less rainy than in February.
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to visiting Hawaii’s beautiful islands. Honolulu, O’ahu, Maui, and Kaua’i are among the most famous for their beaches, rich histories, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
For adventure seekers, hike the stunning trails of Nā Pali Coast on Kaua’i or take on the Haleakalā Crater on Maui.
Meanwhile, The Big Island boasts Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness active lava flows or explore lava tubes.
Getting there and staying there: In March, flights from the UK to Hawaii start at approximately £577 return, while accommodation starts from £80 a night.
Krabi, Thailand
Temperature: 29°C (up to 34°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Around 15 hours (usually with a stop in Bangkok)
Thailand’s weather can be intense in March. You can expect to sizzle in the capital, Bangkok, and it can be uncomfortably hot at times in the country’s northern reaches.
Luckily, there are plenty of island locations to keep things a tad cooler, most offering out-of-this-world beaches, with warm water perfect for swimming and splashing around in.
By no means is Krabi your only option, but this province promises ultimate relaxation, (literal) turquoise waters and stunning views of breathtaking karsts. Sold.
Head to Koh Samui for luxurious resorts and thriving nightlife, or Koh Tao for world-class diving opportunities.
If you’re up for adventure, explore the famous Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, or take a boat tour to the emerald lagoon at Koh Hong.
Getting there and staying there: You can catch a flight from £400 to Krabi with accommodation for as little as £40 a night.
Las Vegas
Temperature: 16°C (up to 22°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: 10 hours, 40 minutes
The right place to go if you want a change of pace, as the city of Las Vegas will have you forgetting your life outside Sin City in no time.
The bright lights and frivolous attitude is the perfect combination for your break away this March.
And if you’re up for a bit more adventure, take a road trip out of the city to discover Nevada’s natural beauty. Head to the iconic Hoover Dam or embark on a scenic drive to Red Rock Canyon for some hiking.
Or, drive through the vast, stunning desert landscapes and make your way to Lake Tahoe for a change of pace with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains.
Getting there and staying there: In March, return flights from the UK to Las Vegas start around £413, while accommodation in a four-star hotel typically costs between £40 and £100 per night.
Muscat, Oman
Temperature: 26°C (up to 30°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Seven hours, 15 minutes
Muscat, Oman’s port capital, sits on the Gulf of Oman and is surrounded by mountains and desert – which makes for a stunning backdrop.
Temperatures in March are warm but not too hot, which means you can still explore the city and market without getting too uncomfortable – unlike the scorching summer months of June and August.
Known as the ‘Pearl of Arabia’, Muscat is rich in culture and history. Visit the impressive Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, stroll through the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, or wander around the traditional Muttrah Souq for unique local goods.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Oman start from £275 in March, while accommodation averages £40 to £100 a night.
Orlando, Florida
Temperature:20°C (up to 25°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Nine hours
The best time to visit Orlando is generally considered to be from March to May, as you’ll find pleasant weather (sunny and warm) and the most reasonable accommodation prices.
As well as lapping up the glorious sunshine, there’s lots to do as well.
From Disney World and Universal Studios to various water parks, you’ll find plenty of activities to while away the hours.
Beyond the theme parks, take time to visit the lively International Drive, or if you’re looking for something a bit different, explore the nearby natural springs for a refreshing dip.
Orlando truly has something for everyone, making it an ideal March destination.
Getting there and staying there: Flights start from £300 return. A night in a four-star hotel typically ranges from £40 to £100.
Trinidad & Tobago
Temperature: 27°C (up to 31°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Nine hours, 15 minutes
Like many of the destinations on this list, you can have the best of both worlds with Trinidad & Tobago.
If you want to laze by a pool, there’s no shortage of gorgeous villas to book. But the islands (Trinidad, the larger, and Tobago, the smaller) are also rich in history and culture.
To bear witness to something special, arrive at the country’s capital, Port of Spain, by March 1. You’ll hopefully get to see the end of Calypso: an explosion of music, dance and bold colours, often dubbed the Caribbean’s largest carnival.
Getting there and staying there: British Airways flies to Trinidad and Tobago from £541 in March. A seven-night stay in a four-star hotel will set you back anything from £600 upwards.
South Vietnam
Temperature: 31°C (up to 36°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight to nine hours
Flight time: 12 hours, 50 minutes (to Ho Chi Minh City)
If it’s an unforgettable beach experience you want, then heading to the southern coast of Vietnam is a good plan.
It’s well worth the lengthy flight time from the UK, which will likely take you to Ho Chi Minh City. Spend a day or two (or longer, if you can swing it) in the city, before driving a few hours to a coastal resort.
Explore the city’s lively markets and the War Remnants Museum, and take a boat trip through the Mekong Delta. For a beach escape, head to Phu Quoc Island for stunning beaches and watersports.
While it’s hot in the south, it’s a bit cooler up north, around the 19°C mark. Here, you’ll find the capital city Hanoi. It’s also where you can embark on a visit to Halong Bay – a classic tourist hotspot for a reason.
Getting there and staying there: Flights to Ho Chi Minh City can be pricey, starting at £750, but accommodation is significantly more affordable, averaging between £30 and £50 per night.
