March offers several advantages for visiting Lisbon:
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Fewer crowds: March falls outside of peak tourist season, which means you’ll encounter shorter lines and smaller crowds at popular attractions.
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Moderate temperatures: While the weather can be unpredictable, March generally brings mild temperatures, making it pleasant for exploring the city on foot.
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Festivals and events: March is host to various festivals and events, including St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and the Lisbon Half Marathon.
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Cultural immersion: With fewer tourists, you’ll have a better chance to experience Lisbon’s authentic atmosphere and interact with locals.
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Spring blossoming: As spring approaches, the city comes alive with colorful flowers and greenery, adding to its picturesque charm.
Weather In Lisbon During March
March in Lisbon, Portugal typically has mild and pleasant weather, with the following characteristics:
Temperature:
- Average high: 15-17°C (59-63°F)
- Average low: 9-11°C (48-52°F)
Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 60-80 mm (2.4-3.1 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 10-12 days
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 70-80%
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours per day: 6-8 hours
Wind:
- Moderate winds, typically around 20-25 km/h (12-15 mph)
- Occasionally strong gusts, especially near the coast
Other:
- The weather can be variable, with occasional showers or cooler days.
- The Atlantic Ocean can influence the weather, bringing in cooler temperatures and increased humidity.
- The nights can be chilly, so it’s advisable to pack a light jacket or sweater.
- March is generally a good time to visit Lisbon for sightseeing and outdoor activities, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller than during the summer months.
Things To Do In Lisbon In March
Festivals and Celebrations in Lisbon in March:
1. Festa das Fogueiras dos Santos (Festival of the Bonfires of the Saints)
- Date: March 11-12
- Location: Monsanto neighborhood
- This traditional Portuguese festival celebrates Saint Anthony with bonfires, traditional music, and folk dancing.
2. Lisbon Half Marathon
- Date: March 19, 2023
- Location: Various city landmarks
- One of the most prestigious running events in Portugal, attracting elite athletes and participants from around the world.
3. Dia do Pai (Father’s Day)
- Date: March 19
- Celebrate fathers with special family meals, gifts, and gatherings.
4. Dia de São José (Saint Joseph’s Day)
- Date: March 19
- A traditional Portuguese holiday honoring Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. Some churches hold processions and offer traditional sweets called “fofas de São José.”
Other Things to See and Do in Lisbon in March:
1. Visit the Alfama District:
- Explore the historic cobbled streets and whitewashed houses of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
2. Take a Tram Ride:
- Hop on the iconic yellow trams that wind through the city, offering scenic views and a unique experience.
3. Visit the São Jorge Castle:
- Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this medieval castle offers stunning panoramic views.
4. Explore the Belém Tower:
- Discover this iconic 16th-century fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a crucial role in Portugal’s maritime history.
5. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery:
- Admire the intricate Manueline architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic architecture.
6. Enjoy Live Fado Music:
- Experience the soulful and melancholic melodies of traditional Portuguese fado music in live performances held throughout the city.
Tourism In Lisbon, Portugal During March
Lisbon in March offers a vibrant blend of cultural immersion and lively festivities, attracting a diverse range of travelers.
The city’s historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Belém, resonate with fado music, a melancholic traditional genre, performed in charming taverns or intimate concert halls. Visitors can delve into the city’s maritime history at the renowned Museu de Marinha, or marvel at architectural masterpieces like the São Jorge Castle and the Jerónimos Monastery.
March coincides with the colorful St. Patrick’s Day festivities, bringing a lively atmosphere to the streets with parades and celebrations. The city’s many museums and art galleries showcase a rich tapestry of exhibits, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.
Lisbon’s culinary scene buzzes with flavors and aromas. Traditional Portuguese dishes, such as bacalhau (salted codfish) and caldo verde (cabbage soup), are savored alongside international cuisine. Vibrant markets offer fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
The city’s vibrant nightlife caters to diverse tastes, with trendy bars, lively music venues, and traditional fado houses. Visitors can experience the energy of the city’s younger crowd in the Bairro Alto district or enjoy a more sophisticated ambiance in the Chiado neighborhood.