Portugal, Europe
Porto in March
Drier spells begin and the city wakes up. Good value month.
The straight answer
March is a good month to visit Porto. Drier spells begin and the city wakes up. Good value month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 63F (17C), showers
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What March is like in Porto
March is when Porto starts to wake up. Highs near 63F (17C) and showers still come through, but drier spells begin and the city spends more time outside. Crowds are low and prices are good. Riverside walks along Ribeira become pleasant again, and cafes put tables out on sunny days.
It is a good-value month for couples, friends, and families who want a relaxed city break. Expect a mix of weather and plan flexible days. If you want the Douro Valley in full spring green and more reliable sunshine, April and May are the next step up.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Porto this month.
Riverside walks return
On dry days, the Ribeira waterfront and the Gaia side are lovely for a slow walk. The light on the river is soft and clear.
Torre dos Clerigos views
Climb the Baroque tower on a clear day for one of the best views over the city's rooftops.
Serralves in early spring
The gardens start to bloom and the art museum is quiet. It is a peaceful half-day west of the center.
What to pack for March
- A light waterproof jacket
- Layers for cool mornings
- Comfortable shoes for steep, cobbled streets
- A small umbrella
Our timing tip
Climb Torre dos Clerigos on the first clear morning of your trip, since views depend on the weather.
Book Porto for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PortoOpens a hotel search for Porto 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 PortoWhole 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 PortoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Porto for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Porto
Ribeira and the Dom Luis I Bridge
Walk the upper deck at sunset for the classic view, then eat along the waterfront or cross into Gaia.
Port lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia
Taylor's, Graham's, Sandeman, and others offer cellar tours and tastings. Book ahead in summer.
Livraria Lello
A famous neo-Gothic bookshop with a crimson staircase. Entry is ticketed and timed; the first slot beats the lines.
Torre dos Clerigos
The Baroque bell tower with a climb to one of the best views over the city.
Serralves Foundation
A contemporary art museum, an Art Deco villa, and large gardens west of the center.
Palacio da Bolsa
The 19th century stock exchange with its gilded Arab Room, visited by guided tour.
Beat the crowds
- Book Livraria Lello for the first time slot of the day. By late morning, the line wraps around the block in summer.
- Stay in Cedofeita, Bonfim, or Boavista rather than the Ribeira for quieter nights and more local restaurants.
- Visit the Douro Valley on a weekday and go by train or with a small tour to avoid the big coach groups.
- Walk the Ribeira and bridge early in the morning. Cruise and tour groups arrive later in the day.
Know before you go
- Porto's major sights, port lodges, and museums are open all year. Winter hours are sometimes shorter.
- Some Douro Valley quintas and river cruises reduce operations in winter; check before planning a winter valley trip.
- Many museums close on Mondays. Public holidays like June 24 (Sao Joao) close many businesses in the city.
- Some restaurants close on Sundays, especially family-run places outside the tourist core.
Porto in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Porto?
March is a good month to visit Porto. Drier spells begin and the city wakes up. Good value month.
What is the weather like in Porto in March?
Mild, highs near 63F (17C), showers.
Is Porto crowded in March?
March is one of the quieter months in Porto; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Porto.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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