Romania in March: weather & travel tips

Spring is making its way across Romania in March. The lowlands near the Black Sea start to thaw, while the Carpathian mountains hold onto winter’s last snow. With landscapes shifting from coast to peak, it’s a fascinating time to see the country. Here is our guide to the weather in Romania in March.

Romania in March at a glance

• Temperatures climb to 36°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C)
• Expect rain showers as winter transitions to spring
• Shoulder season begins with gradually increasing visitor numbers
• Good time to visit for budget travelers, but pack layers and rain gear

Is March a good time to visit Romania? 

March in Romania sits right between winter's end and spring's start. It’s a bit unpredictable but has its charm if you're okay with varied weather. Sunny days pop up, but so do rain showers and even some snow, especially in the Carpathians. Early March leans toward winter, while later in the month, outdoor adventures like hiking become more doable—just have a backup plan for indoor activities.

On average, Romania gets about 40mm of rain over 6-8 days in March. In the mountains, expect a bit more precipitation, but the Black Sea coast tends to be drier.  If you're still not sold, see our favorite places to visit in March.

Average daily temperatures in March

March temperatures in Romania usually range between 35°F and 50°F (2°C to 10°C). Days warm up to around 45-50°F (7-10°C), which is great for city strolls or countryside walks. Nights, however, dip to about 35°F (2°C), so don’t forget those cozy layers.

If you’re heading to the coast, the Black Sea stays chilly at around 46°F (8°C)—not swimming weather, but perfect for a brisk seaside walk. March also brings longer days compared to the months before, with roughly 12 hours of daylight to enjoy. 

What about the crowd and cost?

March is a budget-friendly time to visit Romania. Accommodation prices are often cheaper than during peak season, and there are way fewer tourists. You can visit spots like Bran Castle or Sibiu’s historic center without feeling packed in. 

That said, if you prefer warmer weather and don’t mind some crowds, May and June might be better bets—they’re still quieter than the summer high season of July and August. See our full guide to when to go to Romania. 

Things to do in Romania in March

With the weather in Romania in March, here’s a quick roundup of activities worth trying. For even more inspiration, see our guide to the best things to do in Romania.

Spring folklore festivals across the country

March is the perfect time to experience Romania’s rich traditions through its folklore festivals. During Mărțișor, locals exchange red and white strings to mark the arrival of spring. Visit villages in Maramureș or Bucovina, where you'll catch vibrant displays of traditional dance, music, and crafts. The intricate folk costumes and rituals signal the end of winter in a way that’s both beautiful and deeply rooted in history.

Visit brown bears at Libearty Sanctuary in Zărnești

In Zărnești, near the Carpathian Mountains, the Libearty Sanctuary offers a unique chance to see rescued brown bears in a safe, forested haven. Over 100 Romanian bears now roam freely here, having been saved from circuses and zoos. Morning feedings are the highlight – it’s when the bears are most playful. It's heartwarming to see these former circus and zoo bears finally living their best lives.

Tour the weapon collection at Bran Castle

The iconic Bran Castle isn't just about Dracula legends – it houses one of Romania's most impressive medieval weapon collections. You'll get to explore rooms filled with carefully preserved swords, crossbows, and armor spanning several centuries. The weapons are displayed in their historical context, with detailed explanations about their use in both ceremonial and combat situations. 

Take a guided walk through Timișoara's restored Union Square

Union Square in Timișoara, the 2023 European Capital of Culture, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. A guided walk reveals stories of its transformation from a medieval market to a cultural centerpiece. Pause at a historic café for Romanian coffee, and return in the evening to see the buildings lit up in all their glory.

Explore the Western University area of Cluj-Napoca

Cluj's university district is where you'll find yourself wandering through streets lined with impressive Art Nouveau architecture housing trendy cafes and bookshops. The area buzzes with student life, and modern energy. Make sure to check out the botanical yard – it's particularly beautiful in early spring when the first flowers start blooming. 

Festivals and events in Romania in March

Explore these exciting festivals and events happening in March to add to your Romania travel itinerary.

• Târgul de Carte Gaudeamus: You'll find Romania's literary scene at this vibrant book fair in Craiova. It brings together publishers, authors, and book lovers for readings, signings, and incredible finds on both Romanian and international literature.
• Sibiu Jazz Festival: When you're looking for world-class jazz, this festival delivers. As Romania's pioneering jazz event, it transforms Sibiu's historic venues into intimate concert spaces where both established and emerging artists share their musical mastery.
• Festivalul de Muzică și Dansuri Populare: You'll get an authentic taste of Romanian culture at this dynamic festival in Bucharest. Performers from across the country showcase traditional folk dances and music.
• Mărțișor Festival: This cherished tradition kicks off spring with a beautiful custom. You'll see locals exchanging small red and white accessories called mărțișoare, symbolizing love, respect, and the renewal of life as winter ends.

Plan your trip with our Romania itineraries

Dive into our curated Romania itineraries for travel tips, must-see spots, and expert advice to plan a trip you’ll love. You’ll also find plenty of inspiration in our trip ideas gallery.

Prefer to let someone else handle the logistics? Our tailor-made trips are crafted by local experts, customizable to suit your needs, and supported round-the-clock, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.