United Kingdom, Europe
Edinburgh in March
Days lengthen and spring flowers appear in the parks. Good value.
The straight answer
March is a quiet, good-value month to visit Edinburgh. Days lengthen and spring flowers appear in the parks. Good value.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 49F (9C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What March is like in Edinburgh
March is when days lengthen and spring flowers appear in the parks. Highs near 49F (9C) are still cool, and showers come and go. Crowds are light and prices stay low, making it a good value month. Most sights are open, and the city starts to feel brighter by the end of the month.
This month suits couples, first-timers on a budget, and families on spring break. It is a great time for museums and walks between showers. If you want mild weather and long evenings, wait for May or June. Book Easter weekend early if it falls in late March.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Edinburgh this month.
Spring flowers
Crocuses and daffodils brighten Princes Street Gardens and the Meadows.
Royal Botanic Garden
Free entry, glasshouses, and early spring blooms make it a lovely half day.
Calton Hill at sunset
Longer days mean you can catch the classic city view at a reasonable hour.
What to pack for March
- A packable rain jacket
- Warm layers
- Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes
- A compact umbrella
Our timing tip
Book Edinburgh Castle timed tickets online, even in March, to skip the ticket line.
Book Edinburgh for March.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in EdinburghOpens a hotel search for Edinburgh 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 EdinburghWhole 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 EdinburghTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Edinburgh for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle
Book a timed ticket online, especially in summer. Arrive at opening to see the Crown Jewels before lines build.
National Museum of Scotland
Free, with an excellent rooftop terrace view. A perfect rainy-day stop.
Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
A 1 to 2 hour hike to the summit. Go at sunrise or early evening for the best light and fewer people.
Royal Mile and the Old Town closes
Wander the narrow closes off the Royal Mile. Early morning is quiet; the afternoon is packed in summer.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Free entry to the gardens, with glasshouses and views of the skyline.
Royal Yacht Britannia
The late Queen's former yacht, moored at Leith. A surprisingly engaging visit.
Beat the crowds
- Visit the castle at opening or in the last two hours. Book online to skip the ticket line entirely.
- For August, book accommodation six months to a year ahead, or stay in Leith or outside the center and use the tram and buses.
- Explore Stockbridge, Leith, and Dean Village for a calmer side of the city.
- Climb Arthur's Seat early in the morning; the summit gets crowded by late morning on sunny weekends.
Know before you go
- The Palace of Holyroodhouse closes during royal visits, including a week in late June or early July in some years. Check dates before planning around it.
- In August, some streets and venues are dedicated to festival events and access to parts of the castle esplanade is restricted by the Tattoo stands.
- Most museums and sights stay open year-round, though winter hours may be shorter.
- Hogmanay street party areas require tickets, and parts of the city center close to general traffic on New Year's Eve.
Edinburgh in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Edinburgh?
March is a quiet, good-value month to visit Edinburgh. Days lengthen and spring flowers appear in the parks. Good value.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh in March?
Cool, highs near 49F (9C).
Is Edinburgh crowded in March?
March is one of the quieter months in Edinburgh; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Edinburgh.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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