Santorini in March Weather Climate and Travel Guide
Santorini in March is a quiet, romantic, and budget‑friendly introduction to one of Greece’s most famous islands. While summer attracts crowds seeking beaches and nightlife, early spring offers a more authentic atmosphere, cooler temperatures, and excellent value for travelers planning sightseeing‑focused itineraries, cultural tours, or a peaceful honeymoon vacation. This guide explains what weather to expect, what to pack, and how to enjoy Santorini in March while combining it with Greece travel packages, Greece island tours, and extended holiday itineraries.
Overview of Santorini Weather in March
March marks the beginning of spring in Santorini. The island slowly wakes up after winter, with longer daylight hours and improving weather conditions. Average daytime temperatures range between 13°C and 16°C (55°F–61°F), while evenings can drop to around 10°C (50°F).
Rainfall is moderate but decreases toward the end of the month. Expect a mix of sunny and cloudy days, ideal for walking tours, photography, archaeological visits, and relaxed travel without the intense summer heat. Winds may still be noticeable, especially along the caldera cliffs and coastal paths.
For travelers planning sightseeing holidays, cultural tours, or combined Greece vacation packages, March offers comfortable conditions for exploration and outdoor activities.
What to Pack for Santorini in March
Packing smartly ensures comfort throughout your trip. Since weather can change during the day, layering is essential:
- Light jacket or waterproof coat
- Sweaters or hoodies for evenings
- Long‑sleeve shirts and comfortable trousers
- Walking shoes for sightseeing and village tours
- Scarf for wind protection
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for bright afternoons
If you are visiting as part of a longer Greece travel package including Athens, Crete, or other islands, flexible clothing will suit multiple destinations.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Santorini?
Yes—especially for travelers who prefer peaceful surroundings and cultural discovery. March is ideal for:
- Couples planning a quiet honeymoon vacation
- Travelers focused on photography and sightseeing
- Budget‑conscious visitors seeking affordable holiday packages
- Guests who prefer small‑group or private tours
Some beach clubs and seasonal hotels remain closed early in the month, but essential services, restaurants, and major attractions are already operating. Toward late March, tourism activity gradually increases.
Things to Do in Santorini in March
Even without swimming weather, Santorini offers many rewarding experiences:
Caldera Walks
Enjoy the famous trail from Fira to Oia under cool temperatures and clear spring skies.
Archaeological Sites
Visit Akrotiri, Ancient Thera, and the island’s museums comfortably without crowds.
Wine Tours
Santorini’s wineries remain active year‑round, making March perfect for relaxed tasting tours.
Sunset Viewing
Oia sunsets are equally magical, with fewer visitors competing for the best viewpoints.
Photography Tours
Soft spring light enhances cliffside villages, churches, and volcanic landscapes—perfect for guided photography tours included in many Greece travel packages.
Travel Costs and Package Advantages in March
One of the main benefits of visiting in March is affordability. Hotels, flights, and tour services offer lower rates compared to high season. This makes Santorini ideal for travelers booking:
- Greece island‑hopping packages
- Romantic honeymoon vacation tours
- Cultural sightseeing itineraries
- Combination tours with Athens and other islands
Travel agencies often provide flexible vacation packages during this shoulder season, allowing customization and private experiences at competitive prices.
March Weather Compared to Other Months
Compared to winter months (January–February), March is warmer and sunnier. However, it is still cooler than April and May, when swimming becomes more practical.
If your main interest is beaches, summer is better. If your priority is sightseeing, photography, peaceful travel, and value‑oriented Santorini holiday packages, March is an excellent choice.
Tips for Traveling to Santorini in March
- Confirm hotel availability early, as some boutique properties open mid‑month.
- Choose indoor‑outdoor balanced itineraries in case of occasional rain.
- Book winery tours and museums in advance if traveling late March.
- Combine Santorini with Athens for a complete Greece cultural Travel.
- Consider private tours for maximum flexibility and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Santorini warm enough to visit in March?
Santorini in March is cool but comfortable for travel, Greece sightseeing tours, and walking activities. Daytime temperatures suit exploration better than summer heat for many travelers. - Can you swim in Santorini in March?
Swimming is possible for some visitors, but the sea remains cold. Most travelers focus on sightseeing, tours, cultural experiences, and scenic walks instead of beach activities. - Is March good for a Santorini honeymoon vacation?
March is ideal for couples seeking privacy, scenic beauty, affordable honeymoon vacation packages, peaceful hotels, romantic sunsets, and relaxed tours without summer crowds. - Are tours and attractions open in March?
Yes. Major archaeological sites, wineries, museums, and sightseeing tours operate year‑round, while more seasonal activities gradually open toward the end of the month. - Is March cheaper for Santorini travel packages?
March offers lower prices on hotels, flights, tours, and holiday packages, making it perfect for budget‑friendly Greece travel itineraries and island‑hopping vacations.
