Weather in Spain in March

Sitting in a shoulder season for tourism, visiting Spain in March is well-suited to travelers who prefer smaller crowds, lower costs, and pleasant spring weather. Though you should expect some rain, the month is suitable for a range of vacation types — from uncovering culture in history-rich cities, to outdoor adventuring in comfortable mild temperatures. Intrigued? Read on for detail on the weather in Spain in March.

Spain in March at a glance

• Average lows: 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C); average highs: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C).
• Mild-to-warm, March is start of spring.
• Expect small crowds and lower costs.
• Conditions suit exploring cities and outdoor activities, but some rain is likely.

Is March a good time to visit Spain?

As always, the answer to that million-dollar question depends on what you most want from your vacation. 

In a nutshell, March is not a good time to visit mainland Spain for a sun-drenched beach break.

If that’s what you’re looking for in March, you could head to the Canary Islands to — for example — explore Gran Canaria on foot in warm weather. As a bonus, the island also boasts excellent beaches to chill out on.

In terms of the mainland, March is a pretty good time to visit Spain if you’re looking for weather that’s ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. While you can expect some rain, temperatures are mild, and warmer in the south. 

It’s also a good time to visit if you prefer smaller crowds — March sits within a quieter (and cheaper) shoulder season.

Add to that several cultural festivals and events, and March amounts to an all-round winner of a month for travelers who are hoping to experience a diversity of some of the best things to do in Spain.

Keen to visit, but less keen on planning? Browse our customizable Spain itineraries, and contact our local experts to start curating your dream trip to Spain.

Average daily temperatures in March

The average high and low temperatures in Spain in March range from lows of 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), and highs of 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). 

That said, the weather varies from region to region, with southern regions noticeably warmer than the north. 

To help you decide where to go, read on for an overview of average temperatures around mainland Spain in March. 

Central Spain (Madrid)

• Highs: 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C)
• Lows: 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C)

Thinking of visiting Madrid in March? Arm yourself with our itinerary for the perfect weekend, and read up on the best areas to stay in Madrid.

North-eastern Spain (Barcelona, Catalonia)

• Highs: 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C)
• Lows: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)

Planning a vacation in Barcelona? Discover the best areas to stay.

Southern Spain (Seville, Granada)

• Highs: 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C)
• Lows: 48°F to 54°F (9°C to 12°C)

Keen to uncover the best of Andalucía in Southern Spain? Check out our customizable Andalucia Explored itinerary.

Eastern Spain (Valencia)

• Highs: 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C)
• Lows: 48°F to 52°F (9°C to 11°C)

Discover why Valencia is such a great weekend break destination, and see our Valencia City Break itinerary. 

Northern Spain (Bilbao and Basque Country)

• Highs: 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)
• Lows: 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C)

Want a picture of the weather in Spain around the year? Read up on the best time to go to Spain.

What about the crowds and cost?

Sitting in a shoulder season for tourism, visiting Spain in March means crowds will be moderate, especially compared with the peak summer months.

So, though popular tourist attractions and major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville will be busy, they won't be overwhelmingly overcrowded.

At the same time, costs in March are likely to be moderate, too. That applies to flights, accommodation and tours.

Just be aware that prices are likely to increase around festivals and events, including Valencia’s Las Fallas (more on that below) and Semana Santa (Holy Week).

On a budget? Find out about fab free things to do in Madrid, and Barca’s best things to do for FREE!

What to do in Spain in March

Considering Spain’s mild March weather — and moderate crowds — it’s a great month to mix culture and nature. Here are a few suggestions for what to do in Spain in March.

Explore cities

March’s mild temperatures and less-crowded shoulder-season conditions make exploring Spain’s top cities all the more comfortable than the experience is during the scorching-hot height of summer.

For example, it’s the ideal time to visit historic sites like the Alhambra in Granada, La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and the Royal Palace in Madrid.

Editor’s tip: to take in five of Spain’s most remarkable cities — Madrid, Granada, Seville, Valencia and Barcelona — without the hassle of planning, book our customizable Iconic Cities of Spain trip.

Uncover outstanding UNESCO sites

Into culture? You could focus your March vacation on Spain’s rich history through visiting extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

For example, we’re huge fans of Cordoba. Its incredible UNESCO-designated Historic Centre is a joy to explore in spring, when you’re less likely to have to vie for space.

The same is true of the ancient city of Toledo, with its UNESCO esteemed World Heritage Centre.

Enjoy outdoor adventures

If you’re looking for a more active vacation, take advantage of the mild weather by heading to the Canary Islands to hike, or explore the rugged, scenic landscapes of Northern Spain.

Into adventure? Our self-drive trip around Northern Spain has your name all over it. 

Festivals and events in Spain in March 

Travelers who visit Spain in March are in for a few treats on the festival front.

• Las Fallas: held in Valencia, this is one of Spain’s most famous festivals, and sees giant sculptures (fallas) paraded through the streets before being burned in spectacular bonfires on the final night.
• Festival de Jerez: Jerez de la Frontera’s flamenco festival is one of the most important in Spain, with performances by top flamenco artists, plus dance and guitar workshops
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): while Semana Santa is often in April, it does sometimes fall in March. Expect elaborate religious processions, especially in Andalusia.

Ready for your dream trip to Spain?

Before booking your dream trip to Spain, browse our Spain itineraries for inspiration. Using our tailor-made trip platform means you’ll cut out the hassle of planning. 

Here are a few sample itineraries:

• Andalucía Explored (9 days): discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards (and more) on a culture-packed, 9-day trip that also showcases incredible natural landscapes. 
• Gems in Southern Spain (16 days): starting out in Seville, this will see you exploring Cordoba, Granada, Ronda, Nerja, Malaga and the Costa del Sol in an immersive, leisurely style.
• The Lands of Wine from Madrid (5 days): offering a deep dive into two of Spain’s most esteemed wine regions — Ribera del Duero and La Rioja — this includes tours of four famous wineries.

Inspired? Contact our local experts to start curating your own dream trip to Spain.