Italy in March 2026: Enjoy Festivals & Spring Activities

March in Italy marks the transition from winter to spring, offering a mix of chilly days and budding blooms for your Italy tour. This period is perfect for exploring Italy's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. You can enjoy the serenity of historical sites, participate in unique local festivals, and witness the country awakening with spring colors.

Italy's Weather in March

March's weather in Italy varies across the regions, making it a versatile month for travel. The north is still quite cold, with occasional snow and a mix of rainy and sunny days. The central and southern regions begin to warm up, showcasing early signs of spring with more frequent sunny spells and blooming flowers.

Map of Italy's Weather

Northern Italy (4-13°C) in March is perfect for skiing in the Alps or exploring cozy museums in Milan and Turin. Central Italy (6-15°C) offers a pleasant climate for sightseeing in Florence and Rome, with blooming landscapes ideal for wine tours. Southern Italy (9-17°C) warms up, inviting visits to ancient ruins, coastal towns, and Sicily's spring flowers.

Crowds & Costs

In March, Italy begins to wake from winter. Tourist numbers are still relatively low compared to the warmer months, though you'll notice more visitors than in January or February as spring approaches. Prices for flights and hotels remain moderate, especially outside the main cities, but they can start edging up toward the end of the month as the travel season slowly picks up.

Vineyard in Tuscany

Best Places to Travel in March

Rome

In March, Rome comes alive with the early signs of spring. You can stroll through gardens and parks filled with blooming flowers, visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican City without the long queues, and participate in the Rome Marathon. This month is perfect for a more relaxed exploration of the Eternal City, enjoying its historical charm in pleasant weather.

Sicily

Sicily in March greets visitors with mild weather and an early touch of spring. Ancient Greek temples stand against clear skies, coastal towns feel more relaxed, and the countryside shows fresh signs of life. Walking through lively markets and trying seasonal dishes adds another layer to the island's charm, making it a rewarding time to see Sicily's blend of history, nature, and daily life.

Matera

Matera, in early spring, shows off its unique charm. The Sassi districts wind through the old stone buildings, with early flowers appearing here and there. Ancient rupestrian churches rise above the town, their facades touched by soft sunlight. In March, the town feels calm, and you can enjoy its tranquility too.

Umbria

Umbria in March has rolling hills and medieval towns lit by soft sunlight. Assisi and Perugia showcase their historic streets and architecture, while local markets sell the region's wines and truffles. The mild weather makes walking and hiking in the countryside comfortable, you will immerse yourself in the scenery and towns at a relaxed pace.

What to See & Do in March

Run the Rome Marathon

Rome Marathon, held in late March, it is a special way to see the city's historical landmarks. Running through ancient streets, and past iconic monuments like the Colosseum and St. Peter's Basilica, you experience Rome's history in an exhilarating manner. Alongside the marathon, you'll find a host of supporting events, including fun runs, family activities, and health expos, all contributing to a festive atmosphere that showcases the best of Rome.

St. Peter's Basilica

Enjoy Off-Peak Skiing

March is a great time for skiing in Italy's northwestern Alps or northeastern Dolomites. With the peak season behind, you can enjoy less crowded slopes and more relaxed après-ski activities. Resorts like Cortina d'Ampezzo and Cervinia still offer excellent conditions, and you can take in the stunning alpine scenery in a more tranquil setting.

Celebrate St. Joseph's Day

St. Joseph's Day brings local traditions and seasonal foods across Italy. In Sicily, people enjoy zeppole, a sweet pastry, and take part in processions and feasts. Naples fills with decorations and food stalls serving traditional dishes such as sfinge. In Umbria, particularly in Montefalco, the community gathers for shared meals featuring local wines and regional specialties, highlighting the area's culinary traditions.

Start a Springtime Hike

By March, Italy's landscapes begin to stir from winter. The air turns mild, and early signs of greenery appear across the countryside. A springtime hike in Italy awaits. In the Cinque Terre, trails lead past terraced vineyards with sweeping views of the coast and its colorful villages. The Apennines, on the other hand, invite walkers into rolling hills and quiet valleys, where the atmosphere feels crisp and peaceful. Whether you're after coastal paths or mountain routes, March is a refreshing moment to enjoy Italy on foot.

Cinque Terre

Discover the Ancient Wonders of Pompeii

March is an ideal month to visit Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried under volcanic ash. As the weather warms up, you can comfortably explore the well-preserved ruins, including the Forum, the Amphitheatre, and the Villa of the Mysteries. Witness the intricate frescoes and mosaics that offer a glimpse into the daily life of Pompeii's inhabitants. Step into the casts of the victims, frozen in time by the eruption, for a haunting reminder of the city's tragic fate.

Events and Festivals

St. Joseph's Day

St. Joseph's Day in Italy is on March 19th. It's a time for family gatherings, special meals, and church services honoring Fathers and St. Joseph. You can experience local customs and join in the festivities that include traditional foods and community events.

Easter (Pasqua)

Easter, known as Pasqua in Italy. You can attend unique Italian traditions such as Florence's "Scoppio del Carro," where a cart filled with fireworks is ignited for good luck. In Rome, the Pope leads a special mass at St. Peter's Basilica. Italian Easter cuisine is a highlight. You can savor colomba, a dove-shaped sweet bread, and torta pasqualina, a savory pie filled with spinach and ricotta.

Carnival

While most Carnival celebrations peak in February, some continue into early March. Venice's Carnival, for instance, extends into the first few days of March. You can experience the tail end of this vibrant festival, with its masked balls, parades, and street performances, offering a last taste of the festive season.

Travel Tips for March

Book in Advance

While crowds are lighter, popular events like the Rome Marathon and festivals still attract visitors, so secure your accommodations and tickets early.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

March is a great time to savor local foods and wines. Visit markets and try seasonal dishes like artichokes (a type of thistle with edible flower heads) and asparagus (long, slender green stalks with a delicate flavor).

Experience Festivals Atmosphere in Italy

Engage with local traditions by attending events' celebrations, offering a deeper cultural immersion. For St. Joseph's Day, especially in Naples and Sicily, wear purple or white to show your devotion and respect. During religious ceremonies, maintain a solemn demeanor and avoid disruptive actions.

Embrace Springtime Outdoor Activities

With the beginning of spring, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the countryside or leisurely strolls through blooming gardens and vineyards. You can also take a paddleboat out on a serene lake, or simply sit by a babbling brook with a good book, soaking in the fresh air and the sounds of nature.

Top Itineraries for Traveling to Italy in March

8-Day Italy Vacation from Rome to Milan

This itinerary takes you from the ancient landmarks of Rome to the artistic treasures of Florence, the canals of Venice, and the style of Milan. With the guidance of local experts, you'll gain insight into Italian culture, history, art, and cuisine while experiencing the character of each city.

8-Day Classic Tour of Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice

Spend eight days in Italy, starting in Rome with its famous monuments. In Florence, savor pizza and visit medieval plazas and galleries. End in Venice with a Gondola ride to see ornate palaces and enjoy free time to discover hidden treasures.

9-Day Discover the Northern and the Central of Italy

Discover northern and central Italy's architectural gems: St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Rome's Colosseum, Renaissance art at Vatican Museums, Venetian artisans, Lucca's medieval walls, Pisa's Leaning Tower, and a hands-on cooking class with regional recipes.