March Sun Close to Home
These islands are warm enough for the beach by March, with flights of four hours or so from UK airports.
- Lanzarote: Lanzarote reaches highs of 21 to 23 degrees in March, with light winds on the south coast. Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise have sheltered beaches, and the volcanic landscape adds a day-trip option.
- Fuerteventura: Long sandy beaches at Fuerteventura suit walkers and water-sports fans. Spring winds can be brisk, so choose a hotel with a heated pool for relaxed afternoons.
- Madeira: Spring brings flowers and mild air to Madeira, with highs near 19 degrees. It is better suited to walking and gardens than to sunbathing, and we recommend a hotel in Funchal.
- Tenerife: The south coast of Tenerife is among the warmest places in Europe in March. Resorts such as Costa Adeje have good choices of apartments and hotels, plus a lively seafront.
Mild Mediterranean Breaks in March
The Mediterranean is comfortable rather than hot in March, and that suits sightseeing and walking.
- Cyprus: Spring arrives early in Cyprus, with wildflowers and highs of 18 to 20 degrees. The sea is still cool, so choose a hotel with a heated pool and plan ancient sites for the day.
- Malta: Short flights bring you to Malta, where Valletta, the temples and the harbours are all easy to reach by bus. March is quieter than summer, which makes sightseeing more relaxed.
- Sicily: Sicily blends Greek temples, markets and Mount Etna in one trip. Spring is a good time to hire a car and explore, as the countryside is green and the roads are quiet.
- Algarve: Golf courses, clifftop walks and quiet beaches define the Algarve in March. Highs reach about 18 degrees, and hotels often cost less than in the summer. It is an easy trip for couples who want fresh air and good food.