Portugal, Europe
Azores in March
Still unsettled, but days lengthen and the first migrating whales can appear late in the month.
The straight answer
March is a month of real tradeoffs in Azores. Still unsettled, but days lengthen and the first migrating whales can appear late in the month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 62F (17C), showers and wind
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What March is like in Azores
March is still unsettled, with highs near 62F (17C), showers, and wind. Days are getting longer, though, and the first migrating whales can appear late in the month. Hiking trails can be muddy or closed after heavy rain. Prices and crowds stay low. Ferries between islands are still limited.
This month suits patient travelers who want quiet islands and low prices and are fine with weather swings. Whale lovers can try late March, but April is more reliable. Families may prefer to wait for June, when seas calm and days are warm enough for rock pools.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Azores this month.
First migrating whales
Late March can bring the first blue and fin whales passing the islands, weather permitting.
Longer days
More daylight gives you time to chase clear windows for viewpoints.
Lagoa do Fogo
The high crater lake in the middle of Sao Miguel is dramatic when the clouds lift.
What to pack for March
- A waterproof jacket
- Layers for wind
- Waterproof hiking shoes
- Binoculars for whale spotting
Our timing tip
Book whale watching early in your stay so you have spare days if trips are canceled.
Book Azores for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in AzoresOpens a hotel search for Azores in March, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in AzoresWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in AzoresTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Azores for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Azores
Sete Cidades
The twin crater lakes on Sao Miguel. Check live webcams or local weather before driving up; on cloudy days you will see only fog.
Furnas and its cozido
Watch the stew pots pulled from the ground at the Furnas lake fumaroles around midday, then eat it in town and soak in the thermal pools.
Whale watching from Ponta Delgada, Pico, or Faial
Operators use land-based lookouts to find animals. Spring is peak for blue and fin whales; sperm whales are seen year-round, weather permitting.
Climbing Mount Pico
Portugal's highest mountain at about 7,700 feet (2,351 m). Climbers must register at the mountain house; summer is the practical season.
Pico's vineyards
A UNESCO World Heritage landscape of vines grown inside black lava-stone walls.
Angra do Heroismo, Terceira
A UNESCO-listed Renaissance port town with colorful facades and a strong festival culture.
Beat the crowds
- Book rental cars early for June through September. Sao Miguel regularly runs short in summer, and public transport between sights is limited.
- Check webcams for Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo each morning and go where the clouds are not. Build flexible days into your plan.
- Visit Furnas' thermal pools early or late in the day; midday tour groups crowd the smaller pools.
- Add a second or third island. Sao Miguel gets most visitors; Pico, Faial, Sao Jorge, and Flores are far quieter.
Know before you go
- The Azores do not shut down, but from about October to May inter-island ferry service is limited or suspended on many routes, so island-hopping means flying.
- Boat trips, whale watching, and swimming are weather-dependent in every month and are canceled frequently in winter.
- Hiking trails can close after heavy rain or landslides. Check the regional trail network's status before heading out.
- Some seasonal restaurants and guesthouses on the smaller islands close in winter.
Azores in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Azores?
March is a month of real tradeoffs in Azores. Still unsettled, but days lengthen and the first migrating whales can appear late in the month.
What is the weather like in Azores in March?
Mild, highs near 62F (17C), showers and wind.
Is Azores crowded in March?
March is one of the quieter months in Azores; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Azores.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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