Fall is my favorite time to visit Italy, but spring is my second choice because you can enjoy some mild weather, grab some low-season travel deals, and the kids have spring break! This is how we spent ten days in Italy last year. March is a great time to visit Italy, as the weather is starting to warm up, the crowds are smaller, and many exciting events and festivals are taking place throughout the country.
Technically, early March is still winter, giving you even more deals on hotels and flights. For flights, I like using Expedia, Booking for bundle deals with hotels, or just Google Flights for Hotels.
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Best Places To Visit Italy In March
Rome
Rome is a city that should be on everyone’s bucket list, and March is a great time to visit. The weather is mild, and fewer tourists make it easier to see the city’s famous sights, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican.
Florence
Florence is another must-visit city in Italy, and March is an excellent time to visit. The city is less crowded, and the weather is pleasant, making it a perfect time to explore the city’s museums, galleries, and historic buildings.
Venice
Venice is one of the most unique and romantic cities in the world. In March, the city is much quieter, and the weather is mild, making it an ideal time to explore its beautiful canals, stunning architecture, and delicious food.
Sorrento
Sorrento is a great city to visit in March as it tends to be warmer than the northern cities, and it is a great base city to visit Capi and the Almafi coast.
Typical March Weather in Northern Italy
In March, the weather in Northern Italy can be unpredictable. The temperature can range from 5ยฐC to 15ยฐC, and there is a possibility of rain and even snow. Packaging layers, including a warm coat, gloves, and a hat, is essential. The good news is that the days are getting longer, so you can enjoy more daylight hours.
Typical Weather in Southern Italy
The weather in Southern Italy is milder than the north, with temperatures ranging from 10ยฐC to 20ยฐC. The weather is usually sunny, but there is still a chance of rainโpack layers, including a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.
What to pack for an Italy Trip in March
Preparing for changing weather is important when traveling to Italy in March. Here are some things to pack:
- A warm coat, gloves, and a hat for Northern Italy
- Layers of clothing, including a light jacket or sweater for Southern Italy
- Comfortable walking shoes
- An umbrella or raincoat
- A camera to capture all the beautiful sights
- Electrical adapters
- A guidebook or map to help you navigate the country
- Super comfortable shoes for day walking and warm shoes for the night.
- Black and White T-shirts
- Black and white Tank Tops
- Black Leggings
- 3 Pairs of jeans
- Two Maxy dresses
- One Other pair of pants
- Two Cardigans
How Long to Stay in Italy in March
Your interests and travel budget will determine how long your trip to Italy lasts. We advise at least a week to spend touring the most well-known cities, including Rome, Florence, and Venice. Other cities and areas, such as Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and the Italian Lakes, can be explored if you have more time, such as these. You can also take a two-week trip to some of the less popular but no less stunning locations, including Bologna, Naples, and Matera.
Planning a trip to Italy can be difficult because there is so much to see and do there. Consider taking a tour that visits the nation’s top attractions if you don’t have much time. Renting a car or taking the train are good options if you have more time and want to travel at your own pace.
A trip to Italy should last at least 10 days, in my opinion.
Is March a good time to visit Rome
I’ve been to Rome in March on two separate occasions and I think it’s a fantastic time to go. You will find fantastic flight deals to Rome in March. Typically, you can find flights for less than $600 or even less than $500, depending on what airport you are flying out of. You do need to book it in advance, as flights do go up, and as I have been seeing some Rome Tik%Tok videos this month, the town is pretty full even for February.
Where to Stay in Rome in March
In March, I find Monti to be one of my favorite neighborhoods in Rome. You can find fantastic flight deals to Rome in March. There are excellent restaurants and bars nearby, and the major attractions are easily accessible on foot. I also suggest Trastevere for couples. Although it’s farther away, it’s such a cool place to feel like a local.
10 Things to do in Rome in March for Couples
- Book a rooftop hot tub at 77th Hotel and watch the sunset with a bubbly.
- Stroll through Villa Borghese, one of the most romantic parks in Rome, and take a picnic with you.
- Visit the Trevi Fountain, throw a coin over your shoulder, and make a wish. Do go early in the morning or stop by the evening.
- Go shopping and get some end-of-winter season deals.
- Take a cooking class together and learn how to make authentic Italian dishes.
- Explore the Vatican City, which is home to the world-famous Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Visit mass for Easter if you are there during Easter.
- Explore the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and authentic trattorias. This is my favorite neighborhood for people-watching, drinking, and eating.
- Stop by Ai Tre Scalini in Monti.
- Grab a delicious cocktail in Monti House Bar.
10 Unique Things to do in Rome in March for Families
- Time Elevator – a 5D cinema experience that takes you through the history of Rome, from its foundation to the present day.
- Villa Borghese: This is Rome’s most famous park and a perfect place for a picnic. Families can rent a bike or take a leisurely walk through the gardens, and the park also has several playgrounds for children.
- The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Veritร ): Located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, this ancient marble mask is said to bite off the hands of liars. Kids will love putting their hands in its mouth and taking a photo!
- Baths of Caracalla – a well-preserved ancient Roman bathhouse that is sure to impress both kids and adults alike with its grandeur and scale.
- Cinecittร : This is Rome’s largest film studio and has been the setting for many famous movies. The studio offers guided tours that take visitors behind the scenes and show how movies are made. Kids will love seeing sets from popular films like Ben-Hur and Gangs of New York.
- Bioparco: This is Rome’s zoo, which is home to over 200 different species of animals. The zoo also has a petting zoo and a playground, making it a great place for families with young children.
- Appian Way: Take a bike tour or a walk along this ancient road that once connected Rome to the south of Italy. You’ll see ancient tombs and ruins, and can take a break to explore the Catacombs of San Callisto.
- Palazzo Valentini: This palace has an underground museum that uses virtual technology to recreate ancient Rome. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, which let visitors explore ancient Roman houses, temples, and markets.
- The Pyramid of Cestius: Located near the Protestant Cemetery, this ancient pyramid is an unexpected sight in the middle of Rome. Kids will love the idea of exploring a real-life pyramid.
- Catacombs of San Callisto – an underground maze of tunnels that were used for Christian burials. A unique and fascinating way to learn about Rome’s early Christian history.
- Eat Gelato and buy Easter Baskets filled with Bacci chocolate. You can find these at grocery shops, and they are pretty affordable. I wish we had bought one at the beginning of our trip last year and eaten it throughout our vacation.
Tuscany in March
Just like the fall, March is also a great time to visit Tuscany. I recommend you visit smaller towns like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Chincianco, Orvieto, and Sienna. You can take a road trip from Rome to Florence or the train straight to Florence. Stay in Florence for at least 4 days and make day trips to Tuscany cities.
15 Unique Things to do in Tuscany in March
- Visit a hot spring. Our favorite has been the Terme in Chinciano and the Bagni San Fillipo. This is a good way to unwind and relax after walking so much in either Florence or Rome.
- Half-day trip to Sienna. Sienna is such a beautiful medieval town. You need to take an escalator up, and I find that kids and teens both love how unique it is.
- Visit the Etruscan Tombs in Sovana: Sovana is a small town located in the Maremma region of Tuscany. It’s known for its ancient Etruscan tombs, which are carved into the tuff stone that the town is built on. This is a great opportunity for families to learn about ancient Etruscan culture and history.
- Explore the Carrara Marble Quarries: The Carrara Marble Quarries are located in the Apuan Alps in Tuscany. The quarries have been in operation for over 2,000 years, and have provided marble for some of the world’s most famous sculptures and buildings. Families can take a tour of the quarries and even try their hand at carving their own piece of marble.
- Discover the Tarot Garden: The Tarot Garden is an outdoor sculpture garden located in the southern part of Tuscany. The garden was created by the French artist Niki de Saint Phalle, and features 22 large-scale sculptures that are based on the tarot cards. This is a unique and magical place that will delight both kids and adults.
- Attend the Joust of the Saracen in Arezzo: The Joust of the Saracen is a medieval festival that takes place in the town of Arezzo every year. The festival features a jousting competition between the four neighborhoods of the town, and includes elaborate costumes and pageantry. This is a great way to experience medieval culture and history in a fun and engaging way.
- Walk the Vie Cave in Pitigliano: The Vie Cave are a series of ancient Etruscan roads that are carved into the tuff stone in the town of Pitigliano. The roads are narrow and winding, and offer a unique and fascinating way to explore the town and its history.
- Visit the Apennine Wolf Center: The Apennine Wolf Center is located in the Casentino National Park in Tuscany. The center is dedicated to the conservation of the Apennine wolf, which is a native species to the area. Families can take a guided tour of the center and learn about the behavior and habitat of this majestic animal.
- Explore the Devil’s Valley: The Devil’s Valley is a natural park located in the town of Roccastrada in Tuscany. The park features a unique landscape of eroded rock formations and is said to have been the site of many supernatural events throughout history. Families can take a guided tour of the park and learn about its geology and folklore.
- Learn to make pizza and gelato: Tuscany is known for its delicious food, and what better way to experience it than by learning to make it yourself? Many towns in Tuscany offer cooking classes for families, where you can learn to make traditional Italian dishes like pizza and gelato.
- Walk the Lucca Walls: The town of Lucca is surrounded by ancient walls that were built in the 16th century. The walls offer a great way to explore the town and take in its history and architecture. Families can walk or bike along the walls and enjoy the views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
- Montepulciano: This hilltop town is known for its medieval architecture and world-renowned wine. Families can visit the Palazzo Comunale, the town’s main square, and take a wine-tasting tour of the region’s famous Vino Nobile. Check out these great tips on What to do With Kids in Montepulciano.
- Val d’Orcia: This scenic valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. Families can visit the historic town of Pienza, the hot springs in Bagno Vignoni, and take a scenic drive through the winding roads and cypress tree-lined hills. Stay at this magnificnetg B and B and ride horses or do a spa day.
- Arezzo: This historic town is often overlooked by tourists but has plenty to offer. Families can visit the medieval castle, admire the frescoes at the Church of San Francesco, and stroll through the town’s antique markets.
- Go shopping and let your kids pick where.
March Holidays and Festivals in Italy
- Festa della Donna: Festa della Donna or International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th in Italy. It is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Many events are organized throughout the country, including concerts, exhibitions, and parades.
- Carnevale di Venezia: Carnevale di Venezia is a festival held in Venice, which is known for its elaborate masks and costumes. The festival takes place in February and March and includes parades, parties, and concerts.
- Easter Easter is a significant holiday in Italy, and many events and traditions take place throughout the country. The most famous is the Holy Week celebrations in Rome, which include processions, masses, and other religious ceremonies.
- Anniversary of Caesarโs death: March 15. This is an important one to keep in mind id visiting Rome in March. This was happening when we visited last year, and it got hectic. Roads were closed, and hotel rates went up if you left the booking last minute. So this is essentially a marathon help in Ceasar’s honor. It is a 42 km course covering popular spots around the city, including the Vatican and Colosseum.
- One of the most important wine festivals in Italy is celebrated in a small town on the Tuscan coast called Lido di Camaiore. Over 100 producers, winemakers and international labels participate in Terre di Toscana, representing the most important wine areas and DOCs in the Tuscan region. It will occur on March 26 and March 27 this year. Read more here. https://terreditoscana.info/.
- Festa di San Giuseppe/Fatherโs Day in Italy.
- Florentine New Year, aka Feast of the Annunciation.
- Dantedรฌ, National Dante Alighieri Day.
- Mid-ยญ to Late ยญMarch โ Pesto World Pesto Championship, Genoa.
Here is a table of Full Calendar of Events for Italy March 2023.
Holiday | Dates | Websites |
---|---|---|
Death of architect Luigi Vanvitelli | March 1 | – |
Death of Gabriele DโAnnunzio | March 1 | – |
Birth of Saint Benedict of Norcia | March 2 | – |
The Siege of Rome by the Ostrogoths begins | March 2 | – |
Birth of Antonio Vivaldi | March 4 | – |
Birth of Giorgio Bassani | March 4 | – |
Birth of Lucio Dalla | March 4 | – |
Birth of Umberto Tozzi | March 4 | – |
Death of Correggio | March 5 | – |
Birth of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo | March 5 | – |
Birth of Ennio Flaiano | March 5 | – |
Birth of Pier Paolo Pasolini | March 5 | – |
Birth of Michelangelo | March 6 | – |
Birth of Francesco Guicciardini | March 6 | – |
Birth of Santi di Tito | March 6 | – |
Death of Saint Thomas Aquinas | March 7 | – |
Birth of architect and painter Baldassare Peruzzi | March 7 | – |
Birth of Filippo Juvarra | March 7 | – |
Birth of Alessandro Manzoni | March 7 | – |
Birth of Anna Magnani | March 7 | – |
International Womenโs Day aka La Festa delle Donne | March 8 | – |
Feast Day of San Francesca Romana | March 9 | – |
Birth of Amerigo Vespucci | March 9 | – |
Inter Milan founded after split with A.C. Milan | March 9 | – |
Death of Giuseppe Mazzini | March 10 | – |
Death of Donato Bramante | March 11 | – |
Birth of Torquato Tasso | March 11 | – |
Canonization day of Saints Francis Xavier and Saint Ignatius of Loyola | March 12 | – |
Birth of Gabriele DโAnnunzio | March 12 | – |
Birth of Alberto Burri | March 12 | – |
Birth of Gianni Agnelli | March 12 | – |
Birth of Vittorio Emanuele II | March 14 | – |
Birth of Umberto I | March 14 | – |
Ides of March, assassination of Julius Caesar | March 15 | – |
Death of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi | March 16 | – |
Birth of Bernardo Bertolucci | March 16 | – |
Kidnapping of former Prime Minister Aldo Moro | March 16 | – |
Feast Day of Saint Patrick | March 17 | – |
Death of Marcus Aurelius | March 17 | – |
The Italian Republic becomes the Kingdom of Italy with Napoleon as King | March 17 | – |
Feast Day of Saint Anselm of Lucca, patron saint of Mantua (Mantova) | March 18 | – |
Mount Vesuvius erupts, killing 26 | March 18 | – |
Feast Day of Saint Joseph/Fatherโs Day in Italy | March 19 | – |
March 20 | – |