The 10 best places to visit in March

March might just be the Goldilocks of travel months. It’s not too cold. It’s not too hot. It’s that “just right” sweet spot where winter’s final frost gives way to spring blooms — or beach days if that’s more your vibe. Sure, you might bump into some spring break crowds (cue the college kids cannonballing into pools). But don’t worry: It’s easy to find spots where you’ll only hear the sound of waves or mountain breezes.

Whether you’re chasing bluebonnets in Texas, sipping cocktails on a quiet Caribbean beach or finally squeezing in a ski trip before the snow melts, March delivers. Here are the 10 best places to travel in March.

Atacama Desert, Chile

Chile’s Atacama Desert — one of TPG’s top destinations in 2025 — has ideal weather in March. The daytime highs hover in the mid-70s, while nights dip into the mid-40s, giving you a pleasant mix of weather for sunny hikes and cozy evenings. March also offers a rare celestial treat: a total lunar eclipse the night of March 13 to 14, with the desert’s famously clear skies making it a prime spot to catch the blood moon.

By day, explore Valle de la Luna’s martianlike terrain, float effortlessly in the salt-rich waters of Laguna Cejar or visit the Tatio Geysers, where steam jets shoot sky-high at sunrise. Don’t miss stargazing tours (Get Your Guide has several options) or sandboarding down the dunes for adrenaline-fueled fun with tour companies like Sandboard San Pedro.

TPG tip: Make San Pedro de Atacama your home base. Here, you can stay at spots like Our Habitas Atacama, which opened in 2023 and features desert-inspired decor, a pool, a wellness area and a restaurant and bar. Rates start at $329 per night this March.

Madhya Pradesh, India

As the dry season peaks, Madhya Pradesh becomes a haven for wildlife and history enthusiasts. With more national parks than any other state in India, the central region is home to Bengal tigers, leopards and more than 500 bird species. March is an excellent time to visit, as animals gather near water sources, increasing wildlife sightings.

Bandhavgarh National Park’s hilly terrain and rivers create a stunning backdrop for spotting wildlife like hyenas and jackals this time of year. For a safari excursion, check out Panna National Park and Tiger Reserve, known for its dense jungles (with, you guessed it, lots of tigers) and Instagram-worthy waterfalls. Luxury outfitter Micato Safaris can help you plan an itinerary to see these wild wonders.

Beyond the wild, Madhya Pradesh is home to many historical sites. The eighth-century Gwalior Fort towers over the landscape, while the rock art of the Chambal Valley dates back to the Paleolithic era. At Khajuraho, UNESCO-listed temples captivate visitors with intricate carvings depicting life, mythology and spirituality.

TPG tip: Check into the brand-new Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh, which opens this February on the edge of Bandhavgarh National Park and will have 21 safari-style tents with private gardens. Rates and reservations will be announced at a later date.

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Ireland

Nothing says March vacation quite like heading to Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day. On March 17, the entire country transforms into a party, with Dublin leading the charge. There are parades with epic floats, street performers, live music and plenty of pubs overflowing with good craic (that’s Irish for fun).

Beyond the festivities, March is a quieter way to explore Ireland’s one-of-a-kind terrain. Visit the country’s west coast to check out the Cliffs of Moher, which rise 700 feet above the Atlantic and offer dramatic ocean views. Or, drive along the Ring of Kerry’s winding roads, where you’ll find more rugged coastlines and storybook villages like Sneem and Kenmare.

History is everywhere on the emerald isle, from the grand halls of Kilkenny Castle to the ancient Rock of Cashel, once the seat of Irish kings. Temperatures in the upper 40s mean you’ll need a good coat, but the cooler weather keeps popular spots quieter.

TPG tip: Book a room at the Conrad Dublin, where rates start at $260 or 69,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March.

Chicago

Speaking of St. Patrick’s Day, Chicago is another destination to get in the Irish spirit without leaving the country. The dyeing of the Chicago River the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day (March 15 this year) is pure St. Patrick’s Day magic. The river transforms into a brilliant green, setting the stage for one of the world’s more unusual holiday traditions.

And the festivities don’t stop there. The Windy City goes all-out for St. Patrick’s Day with lively parades, bagpipe performances and Irish dancing. The downtown parade, winding through Grant Park, is a spectacle of floats, music and plenty of green. Afterward, head to local Irish spots like The Kerryman Chicago or Butch McGuire’s for a festive meal and a pint of Guinness.

Beyond the holiday, families can lace up for a spin on the Ice Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, while theater lovers can catch Peru’s Teatro La Plaza perform a Spanish version of “Hamlet” at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Later in the month, art enthusiasts can visit The Art Institute of Chicago for the “Frida Kahlo’s Month in Paris: A Friendship with Mary Reynolds” exhibit (opening March 29) that showcases the famous painter’s time in Europe.

TPG tip: Stay at the Park Hyatt Chicago for around $396 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night in March.

Related: The 17 best Chicago hotels

Dominican Republic

March in the Dominican Republic means warm days with temperatures in the mid-80s and fewer crowds than peak winter travel. The comfortable weather means you can lounge all day on the island’s white sand beaches or visit inland areas.

Take a day trip to Saona Island for turquoise waters and laid-back vibes, or explore Los Haitises National Park with its mangrove forests and caves etched with ancient Taino carvings. For adventure seekers, the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua are a must. Slide, swim and jump your way through this series of cascades.

TPG tip: The recently opened Zel Punta Cana is an all-inclusive resort with easy access to the vibrant beaches of Punta Cana. In March, it costs $269 per night with a MeliaRewards rate.

If you plan to visit later, the luxurious St. Regis Cap Cana (starting at $881 or 104,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) will open in April, adding even more exclusive options.

Related: 25 best all-inclusive resorts in the world

Houston

Bluebonnets bloom across Houston in March, painting fields and parks in vibrant blue hues, like Texas’ answer to cherry blossom season. Stroll through Buffalo Bayou Park to see the biggest blooms. Crawfish season is also in full swing, and spots like Crawfish & Noodles and BB’s Tex-Orleans serve up steaming, spicy piles of freshwater crustaceans.

Then there’s the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo — a Texas-size celebration with concerts, carnival rides, livestock shows and heart-pounding rodeo action. Think bull riding, funnel cakes and cowboy hats everywhere you look. With mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s, you can soak up the city’s outdoor charm, savor its food scene and embrace all things Texas without the summer heat.

TPG tip: The new Thompson Houston is a great home base. You can book a room starting at $343 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night in March.

San Pedro, Belize

In March, San Pedro, Belize is a tropical retreat with warm temperatures in the 80s, blue skies and the dry season in full swing. Plus, it’s prime whale shark season. So, book a snorkeling or diving tour with Ambergris Divers to Hol Chan Marine Reserve or Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. For more underwater adventures, explore Shark Ray Alley, where you can swim alongside nurse sharks and stingrays.

On land, take a leisurely bike ride around the sandy streets dotted with seafood restaurants and beach bars like Hurricanes Ceviche Bar. Visit the Belize Chocolate Company for local treats, or enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront spots like Blue Water Grill. Cap off the day with a sunset sail or rum cocktail overlooking the barrier reef.

TPG tip: Stay at Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection for $379 or 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in March.

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

March is when Victoria Falls (one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World) truly roars to life. The month is peak flow season, with the Zambezi River at its fullest, sending massive amounts of water cascading over the falls’ mile-wide edge. Known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders,” the falls create a thick mist that might feel like walking through a rain cloud — so don’t forget a rain jacket!

Head to Zimbabwe for the best views, where well-maintained paths and viewpoints provide jaw-dropping perspectives. The Zambia side offers a more adventurous experience, including the chance to inch close to the falls’ precipice via Knife Edge Bridge.

Beyond the falls, you can take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, spot wildlife like elephants and hippos or try white water rafting if you’re feeling daring.

TPG tip: Stay as close as possible to the falls at The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, where rates start at $577 per night in March.

Val d’Isere, France

Val d’Isere offers top-notch late-season skiing in Europe. Located in the French Alps, this world-class resort has high-altitude slopes, ensuring reliable snow coverage throughout March. Plus, there are fewer crowds compared to the busier months of January and February, so you can look forward to shorter lift lines and more space on the slopes.

With over 185 miles of interconnected pistes (aka ski runs or trails), there’s something for everyone, from beginner-friendly runs to expert-level descents. Off the slopes, the apres-ski scene is lively but less packed, with bars like La Folie Douce playing live music and serving mulled wine with mountain views.

March also brings slightly warmer weather, so you can explore the charming Alpine village without freezing. After a day on the slopes, enjoy cheesy raclette dinners at Ski Gallery & Fondue Factory, boutique shopping or unwinding in a spa (like The Spa Sisley).

TPG tip: Splurge and stay at Airelles Val d’Isere for around $1,600 per night in March. It’s part of the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts program, so you’ll get a $100 food-and-beverage credit, free breakfast and other perks.

Related: Why it might be cheaper to fly abroad to ski

Oman

If you’ve been waiting to explore Oman’s deserts, mountains and cities without melting in the heat, March is the time to go when daytime temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s.

In Muscat, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-see. Its intricately carved marble walls are mesmerizing, and the sheer scale of the place will take your breath away — from the second-largest handwoven carpet in the world (a whopping 21 tons!) to the massive Swarovski crystal chandelier that lights up the grand prayer hall.

Nearby, Mutrah Souq is a feast for the senses. Wander through narrow alleys scented with frankincense, and browse stalls overflowing with handcrafted jewelry, colorful textiles and traditional Omani silver. Try halwa, a sweet local treat you won’t forget.

For a dose of adventure, head to the Wahiba Sands with GidOman Tours for camel rides, dune bashing and magical nights under the stars at a Bedouin-style camp. Prefer the mountains? Trek through ancient villages in the Al Hajar Mountains and climb Jebel Shams, Oman’s tallest peak, for canyon views.

TPG tip: Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel is a great jumping-off point in Muscat. Rates start at $278 or 43,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in March.