Visiting Athens in March offers several advantages:
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Fewer crowds: March falls outside the peak tourist season, so you’ll encounter smaller crowds at popular attractions and experience a more relaxed atmosphere.
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Shoulder season pricing: Accommodation and other expenses are generally lower during this period compared to the high season, allowing for more affordable travel.
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Pleasant temperatures: While the weather is typically mild and enjoyable, March is a transition month with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot or by bike.
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Cultural events: Athens hosts various cultural events, such as exhibitions, concerts, and festivals, throughout the year, and March often offers a rich calendar of activities.
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Blossoming greenery: Spring arrives in March, and the city’s parks and streets start to bloom with vibrant colors, adding to the charm of Athens’ ancient ruins and modern architecture.
Weather In Athens During March
March Weather in Athens, Greece
March marks the transition between winter and spring in Athens, Greece. Here’s a general overview of the weather conditions during this month:
Temperature:
- Average high: 15-17°C (59-63°F)
- Average low: 7-9°C (45-48°F)
March is generally a mild month in Athens, with warm days and cool nights. Temperatures start to rise from the end of February and typically continue to increase throughout the month.
Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 50-65 mm (2-2.5 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 10-12
Rainfall is more common in March than during the summer months, but it typically occurs in short bursts rather than prolonged downpours.
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours: 7-8 per day
Athens enjoys ample sunshine in March, with an average of 7-8 hours per day. The clear skies and bright sunshine make it an ideal time for exploring the city’s ancient ruins and attractions.
Wind:
- Prevailing wind direction: Northwesterly
- Average wind speed: 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph)
The prevailing wind direction in Athens during March is northwesterly, bringing cooler air from the north. Wind speeds are typically moderate, between 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph).
Other Features:
- Humidity: 55-65%
- Pollen count: Low to moderate (due to olive trees blooming)
Overall, March is a pleasant month to visit Athens, with comfortable temperatures, occasional rainfall, and plenty of sunshine. It’s an ideal time to enjoy the city’s cultural and historical treasures while avoiding the crowds of peak season.
Things To Do In Athens In March
March 25: Greek Independence Day
- Military Parade: Watch the grand military parade through the streets of Athens, featuring marching bands, soldiers, and armored vehicles.
- Speeches and Ceremonies: Attend official speeches and ceremonies held at government buildings and the Acropolis.
- Fireworks and Festivities: In the evening, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display over the city, accompanied by live music and celebrations.
March (dates vary): Clean Monday (Kathari Deftera)
- Picnic by the Sea: Join locals for a traditional outdoor picnic by the beaches of Athens, enjoying grilled meats, seafood, and traditional pastries.
- Kite-Flying: Head to coastal areas like Phaleron Bay or Glyfada Beach, where kite-flying is a popular activity on Clean Monday.
- Rituals and Customs: Witness unique customs such as the “Alafragia” game, where people throw flour or red dye at each other, symbolizing the end of winter.
March (dates vary): Athens International Film Festival
- Film Screenings: Attend screenings of award-winning films from Greece and around the world.
- Q&A Sessions: Meet filmmakers and actors and participate in discussions about their works.
- Special Events: Enjoy film premieres, workshops, and other special events related to cinema.
Other Attractions and Activities in Athens in March:
- Visit the Acropolis: Explore the ancient citadel and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Parthenon and the Erechtheion.
- Stroll through Plaka: Wander through the charming old neighborhood of Plaka, with its colorful houses, traditional shops, and cozy restaurants.
- Explore the Acropolis Museum: Admire a vast collection of artifacts from the Acropolis and learn about Greek history and art.
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum: Discover an extensive collection of Greek antiquities, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
- Enjoy a Rooftop Bar: Sip cocktails and soak in panoramic views of Athens from the city’s many rooftop bars.
Tourism In Athens, Greece During March
During March in Athens, tourism is less crowded compared to the peak summer months. This provides a more relaxed and intimate experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s ancient ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural attractions at a more leisurely pace. The city offers a multitude of historical sites, archaeological wonders, and museums that showcase its rich heritage. From the iconic Acropolis to the ancient Agora, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories and achievements of ancient Greece. Beyond historical exploration, Athens also boasts a lively contemporary art scene, with galleries and exhibitions showcasing the works of emerging and established Greek and international artists. The city’s vibrant street life and charming cafes invite visitors to engage with the local culture and savor authentic Greek cuisine.
