March emerges as a prime period for savvy travelers seeking affordable adventures across the globe. Falling within the tourism industry’s ‘shoulder season’, March presents a sweet spot between the bustling peak seasons and the quieter, sometimes less appealing, low seasons. This transitional month offers a unique blend of pleasant weather in many regions and, crucially, more budget-friendly prices as destinations strive to attract visitors before the summer rush or after the winter holidays. Unpredictable weather patterns and the in-between seasons can actually work in your favor, leading to fewer crowds and better deals. While spring break can cause spikes in certain locales, strategic planning can help you navigate around those periods and capitalize on the generally lower prices. If you’re yearning for a getaway without breaking the bank, March is your ideal travel window. Let’s explore some of the most economical destinations to consider for your March travels.
In the realm of travel, ‘shoulder season’ signifies that opportune time sandwiched between peak and low seasons. Travelers in the know leverage shoulder season for discounted rates designed to entice visitors ahead of the high-season price surges. Typically, weather conditions remain agreeable during this period, though this can vary depending on your chosen destination. For each of the Cheapest Places To Travel In March highlighted below, we’ll outline the prevailing season and suggest some of the best cities to explore for budget-conscious travel.
Mexico
Colonial architecture in Mexico City, showcasing a vibrant urban scene
Off-Peak Season in March: Mexico in March enjoys a shoulder season vibe. While Spring Break contributes to some tourist activity, it largely precedes the peak season that blossoms in late spring and early summer. This shoulder season sweet spot translates to potentially lighter crowds and more attractive pricing on accommodations and experiences.
Mexico City, the dynamic capital, frequently ranks among affordable global cities, and March’s shoulder season enhances its budget appeal. Expect reasonable prices for lodging, dining, and exploring its rich tapestry of cultural and historical sites. Alternatively, venture to Guanajuato, a city celebrated for its kaleidoscope of colorful streets and vibrant cultural festivals. In March, Guanajuato typically offers more economical rates compared to peak tourist periods, allowing you to immerse yourself in its charm without overspending.
Dominican Republic
Picturesque Ciudad Colonial in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Shoulder Season: March in the Dominican Republic aligns with its shoulder season. The peak tourist influx typically spans from late December to mid-February, driven by travelers escaping colder climates. By March, while the weather remains delightfully warm, the peak crowds begin to dissipate. This translates to noticeable reductions in prices for hotels and activities.
Santo Domingo, the nation’s capital, stands out as a budget-friendly option within the Caribbean, particularly in March. You can discover affordable accommodations and activities while immersing yourself in its rich history, notably in the Colonial Zone, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Puerto Plata, a renowned beach destination on the northern coast, also tends to present more accessible price points in March, before the high season commences. While Punta Cana is synonymous with luxury resorts, early March might reveal better deals before the surge of spring break travelers.
Thailand
Serene pool overlooking limestone cliffs in Krabi, Thailand, a tropical paradise
Dry Season: March falls squarely within Thailand’s dry season, rendering it an exceptionally appealing time to visit. The peak travel season generally coincides with the dry and cooler months from November to February. By March, the peak season throngs begin to thin out, resulting in more competitive prices for travelers seeking the Thai experience. Excellent city choices for budget travelers in March include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the southern islands.
Chiang Mai, nestled in northern Thailand, famed for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage, is remarkably budget-friendly in March. The weather in Chiang Mai during March is generally pleasant and dry, ideal for exploration. Bangkok, the bustling capital, consistently offers a spectrum of accommodation and dining options to suit diverse budgets. March provides a window to explore Bangkok’s vibrant street life and iconic landmarks without battling peak tourist congestion. Krabi, with its breathtaking limestone karsts and idyllic islands in southern Thailand, often presents more affordable options in March, particularly before the summer high season takes hold.
Guatemala
Majestic mountain backdrop behind the colorful architecture of Antigua, Guatemala
Dry Season: Guatemala in March is firmly in its dry season, making it a particularly attractive time for exploration. The peak travel season typically runs from late December through February, as tourists flock to Central America for warmer climates. By March, the tourist wave recedes, leading to more economical accommodation rates and fewer crowds at popular sites.
Guatemala City, as the capital, provides a range of budget-conscious lodging and dining choices. March is generally a favorable month to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Antigua, a colonial gem celebrated for its remarkably preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, often offers reasonable prices in March. The pleasant weather and reduced crowds enhance the experience of wandering its historic streets and admiring its architectural grandeur.
Nicaragua
Boats navigate the Granada Islets, with the Mombacho Volcano in the distance, Nicaragua
Dry Season: March is part of Nicaragua’s dry season, which extends from November to April. While this period is technically considered the peak travel season, by March, you can often find prices more appealing than during the December and January peak months. The weather remains delightful, and the initial tourist surge begins to lessen.
Granada, with its beautifully conserved colonial architecture, is renowned for its charm and affordability. March is an excellent time to explore this city, stroll along its colorful streets, and enjoy lakeside views. Leon, another historically significant city in Nicaragua, typically offers reasonable prices for both accommodations and activities in March. For a more tranquil and budget-friendly escape, consider Ometepe Island, formed by two imposing volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua.
Panama
Idyllic beach scene in Bocas del Toro, Panama, with clear turquoise waters
Dry Season: Panama in March is in the midst of its dry season, generally lasting from mid-December to April. The dry season is also the peak travel season, characterized by predictable weather ideal for outdoor pursuits. However, by March, prices often become more moderate compared to the peak months of December and January. The weather remains favorable, and the initial high-season crowds start to thin.
Panama City, despite being a bustling metropolis, offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, particularly in certain neighborhoods. Bocas del Toro, celebrated for its stunning islands and pristine beaches on the Caribbean coast, tends to have more affordable options in March, anticipating the approaching peak tourist season. Boquete, nestled in the highlands, is known for its coffee plantations and outdoor adventures. March in Boquete offers pleasant weather and potentially lower prices, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Portugal
Colorful boats moored in the canals of Aveiro, Portugal, known as the Venice of Portugal
Off-Peak Season: Portugal in March is considered part of its off-peak season. The peak travel season primarily occurs during the summer months, especially July and August, when tourists flock to its coastal destinations. In March, Portugal enjoys milder weather, and tourist numbers are lower, resulting in more affordable prices for accommodations and activities.
Aveiro, often affectionately called the “Venice of Portugal” due to its charming canals and colorful Moliceiro boats, is particularly appealing in March. It’s a quieter and more budget-friendly time to explore its unique waterways and Art Nouveau architecture. Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in southern Portugal, may also present more affordable options in March, ahead of the summer beach season surge.
Balkans (e.g., Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Scenic landscape of Ohrid Lake in North Macedonia, with mountains in the background
Off-Peak Season: March is generally considered off-peak season across many Balkan countries. The peak travel season in the Balkans typically coincides with the summer months, particularly July and August. During the off-peak season, including March, you can expect more reasonable prices on accommodations, and popular tourist attractions are less crowded.
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, rich in history and cultural diversity, is less crowded in March. Prices for accommodations and activities tend to be more affordable during this time. Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, offers a blend of historical and modern attractions. March can be a budget-friendly time to visit Skopje, with milder weather and fewer tourists. Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo, possesses a youthful energy and unique atmosphere, and March offers a quieter experience with potentially lower prices for travelers. Ohrid, a UNESCO-listed city on the shores of Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, known for its ancient sites and natural beauty, is also an off-peak destination in March, promising lower prices.
Belize
Lush green landscape in Belize with ancient Mayan ruins peeking through the trees
Dry Season Transition: March in Belize marks a transition from the dry to the wet season. While still a popular time to visit due to pleasant weather, the peak season is typically from late November to mid-February, characterized by drier conditions. As March approaches the wetter months, you’re likely to find reduced prices on accommodations and activities as tourism begins to slow down slightly.
Belize City, the largest city in Belize, offers diverse budget-friendly options for lodging and dining. March, still within the dry season, remains an attractive time to travel. San Ignacio, located in the Cayo District, is renowned for its proximity to Mayan archaeological sites and outdoor adventures. March is generally a good time to explore this inland region with reasonable prices and comfortable weather.
Jamaica
Cascading Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, a popular tourist attraction
Shoulder Season: March in Jamaica falls within its shoulder season, positioned between the peak tourist season from mid-December to mid-January and the onset of the rainy season in April. During this shoulder season, you can anticipate more moderate prices on accommodations and attractions, and the crowds are less dense compared to the peak months.
Ocho Rios, famous for Dunn’s River Falls and other attractions, may offer more affordable options in March, before the peak tourist season fully resumes. Negril, renowned for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere on the western coast, also tends to have more reasonable prices in March compared to the higher-priced peak months.
These destinations represent just a starting point for exploring the cheapest places to travel in March. While March generally offers more budget-friendly travel opportunities, remember that prices can still fluctuate based on specific events, local holidays, and festivals. Weather conditions can also be a factor, especially as some regions approach their rainy seasons. Always verify travel advisories and restrictions before finalizing your plans to ensure a smooth and enjoyable, budget-conscious, travel experience.
