Is Algarve in March a Good Time to Visit? Weather, Packing & Activities
One of the most popular destinations among travellers in Portugal is Algarve. The place is absolutely beautiful, filled with beaches, mild warm weather, and excellent landscapes. If you are planning a short trip to the Algarve in March and unsure how the weather will be, then let’s not worry you anymore, as this blog will completely focus on that topic.
The month of March is like the beginning of the Spring season and most of the time the regions start to warm up during the cooler winter months. Now let us discuss the conditions of weather in the month of March, including what kind of temperature stays, rainfall occurrence, typical time of the sunshine hours, and also a few tips on how to pack to have a comfortable trip. Also if you need any type of help regarding the Portugal Schengen Visa appointment from UK, help is available at the end of this blog.
Algarve Temperature in March
As we have mentioned before the weather in Algarve in March changes from winter to spring. You can expect temperatures to rise a bit. In short, let us try to explain pointwise:
- Average daytime temperature: 16 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius.
- Average nighttime temperature: 9 degrees Celsius to 12 degrees Celsius.
- Maximum temperature: On most of the warmer days the temperature can rise upto 22 degrees Celsius.
- Minimum temperature: On most of the cooler nights the temperature can stay as low as 7 degrees Celsius.
Let’s not the temperature make you think that the weather will be extreme as the Algarve in March is not as hot in the summer months. It will always stay mild and comfortable. You can easily engage in a lot of outdoor activities.
Algarve Rainfall in March
Algarve in March can also considered as the wetter months due to the occurrence of rainfall. But do not be concerned by that as the rainfall levels are not too high. Sometimes expect some occasional rain showers. It will be for a very short time and after that, it will follow up with sunshine. Some of the few important details are:
- Average rainfall: It will be around 35-50 mm
- Rainy days: Expect 5 to 7 days in the month of March
As we mentioned the rain will not last that long, so expect plenty of dry and sunny days to enjoy on the trip.
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Sunshine Hours in Algarve in March
To be honest, visiting in Algarve in March is like having the best time of your life to enjoy a great amount of sunshine. You will find that days are quite long which creates plenty of time for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
- Expect 7 to 9 hours of sunshine hours each day
- 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM is the perfect time for sunrise
- From 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM view the astounding sunset from the beaches
Thus you have like 9 hours in hand to enjoy under the rays of sunshine. Use this time to explore the magnificent coastlines and thrilling outdoor activities.
Algarve Wind Conditions in March
Expect light breezes in the Algarve in March, especially if you walk along the coast. The feeling of the breeze mostly ranges from light to moderate but on certain days, it tends to be very strong. Due to this sea breeze, the weather temperature remains comfortable to endure. The afternoon is the best time to experience this.
- Expect the average wind speed of about 10 to 20 Km/h
- The stronger winds can reach upto 30 Km/h
In case you want to spend a lot of time by the sea, then you will feel these breezes all through the way.
Algarve Sea Temperature in March
Now come to the fun activities that want to enjoy in Algarve in March like swimming in the sea. We hate to bring this up, but the water temperature in March might be too much chilly for a few people. So swim cautiously.
- The temperature remains between 16 degrees Celsius to 17 degrees Celsius for the sea
What most fold do during this time is take a dip but many prefer waiting till the late part of Spring season as the water gets warm during that time. But, do let not that deter you from coming to the Algarve in March, as you have the opportunity to enjoy other water sports like surfing to a great extent.
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What to Pack for Algarve in March

You must have learned by now that the Algarve in March has both kinds of mild sunny days and cooler evenings. So it’s essential to pack different kinds of clothes to bear with it. Here are a few items that can help you plan:
- Keep light jackets or sweaters to go out in the cooler evenings.
- Light and comfortable clothes to enjoy in the warm daytime temperatures.
- A Waterproof jacket or umbrella to stay prepared for the occasional rainfall.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must for the sunny days.
- Keep a pair of comfortable shoes so that you can go exploring on foot.
- A light scarf or hat can keep you safe from the strong breezes.
- If you want to swim then get a wetsuit as the sea temperature will stay cool.
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Things to Do in the Algarve in March

Even though the Algarve in March is not considered a popular time like summer, we assure you that this month will still be a great time for you to visit the Algarve. One of the advantages is having fewer tourists around you. This will make your trip very peaceful and relaxing. In case you are confused then let us help you with the best activities that you can perform:
1. Go and Explore the Beautiful Beaches
The Algarve has always remained famous for having excellent beaches. Though the sea will be too cold to swim, you can still go for long walks along the coastlines. You can even lie down on the beach to sunbathe. Or take a lot of photographs in any of the stunning spots. Some of the notable mentions that are absolutely visited places are Praia Da Marinha, Praia da Rocha, and Praia de Benagil.
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2. Go for Hiking and Nature Walks
The Algarve in March is a great time to go hiking due to the availability of mild temperatures. This will make the adventure very comfortable. Some of the famous hiking spots are:
- The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
- Ria Formosa Natural Park
- The cliffs of Ponta da Piedade
3. Enjoy the Boat Tours and Dolphin Watching
Several boat trips are available along the coast which make your stay in the Algarve in March very memorable. This is because on the boat rides you will get the opportunity to explore the sea caves, visit the famous Benagil Cave and the amazing thrill of dolphin watching.
4. Try Golfing
Did you know, the Algarve is also the most sought-after destination for golfing? The month of March is actually a great time to place due to the weather being pleasant and the golf courses being less crowded.
5. Visit the Historical Towns
There are many charming old towns available to explore, most notably Lagos, Tavira, and Silves. Once you come to these towns you will be able to see the beautiful old streets, the marvellous castles, and its fantastic architecture.
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6. Try the Delicious Local Cuisine
The Algarve has many places that serve delicious traditional Portuguese dishes. Some of them are fresh seafood, grilled sardines, and the famous pastel de nata which is a custard tart. Even the local markets are a great place to experience the magnificent authentic flavours.
7. Attend Local Festivals
Algarve in March is a great time for local festivals and events. Just ask any locals for the information, they will guide you with the current cultural events that will happen during your visit.
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Final Thoughts
Thus in final words, we can assure you that the Algarve in March will be a perfect time to enjoy the blend you mild temperatures, fewer crowds and lots of outdoor activities. Though the seawater will be a bit chilly to swim you can counter that by enjoying the sunny days and staying comfortable. Enjoy the activities like sightseeing, hiking and relaxing on the beach.
Pack your stuff correctly, as the weather will be both mildly warm and cool with a bit of occasional rain. Just simply relax so that you can explore nature, and visit the historical sites, The Algarve will have something for everyone. Get your Visa today to enjoy your trip.
FAQs
Not at all, the rainfall will be moderate with a little bit of short showers.
Yes definitely, the march is kind of an off-peak season. You will find that the prices of the accommodation are very low and availability is high.
Yes, but remember the total number of days should not exceed 90 days during the stay including Portugal out of 180 days validity of the Visa.
You can go to the eastern Algarve which is located near Tavira and Faro. Here you can find the weather to be very warm in these regions.