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Greece in March: Weather, What's Open and Is It Worth It?

Greece in March: about 17°C in Athens, cool sea, Clean Monday and 25 March Independence Day, quiet islands and low prices.

By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-11

Quick answer

March is spring for cities and sights, not beaches. Expect about 16–18°C by day in Athens and Crete, a sea too cold for most swimmers (about 16°C) and some rain. Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Nafplio and Crete work well; many small-island hotels and tavernas are still closed and ferries run winter timetables.

At a glance

Typical averages (rounded; varies by year)
AthensCreteCyclades
Daytime high≈17°C≈18°C≈16°C
Sea—≈16°C≈16°C
Rainy days≈8≈7≈7

What to know

  • 25 March is Independence Day: parades in Athens and many towns; some shops close.
  • Clean Monday (start of Lent, 15 March in 2027) means kite flying and a public holiday.
  • Ferries run reduced winter schedules; check before planning small islands.
  • Pack layers and a rain jacket; evenings can be around 8–10°C.
  • Sites and museums are quiet, and it's a good month for hiking before the heat.

FAQ

Can you swim in Greece in March?

Most people find the sea too cold (about 16°C). Hardy swimmers do.

Are the islands open in March?

Big islands with year-round life (Crete, Rhodes, Naxos, Syros, Corfu) are; many small-island hotels open in April or May.

Wind and sea forecast →Ferry route finder →All guides →Greece in April →Greece in winter →

Related guides

Updated 2026-11. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.