Weather in Corfu in March
March in Corfu means early-spring conditions: mild and often wet. Temperatures typically peak at around 16°C / 61°F in the afternoon and fall to about 7°C / 45°F at night. Rain falls on around 8 days, with about 87 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. The sea averages about 15°C / 59°F, too cold for most people to swim. The landscape is lush and green after the winter rains, and showers are still fairly common. Corfu is one of the wettest parts of Greece, which is exactly why it's so green, with olive groves and cypress trees everywhere. Daylight lasts about 12 hours. Bring layers, a warm sweater and a light waterproof, as the weather can turn. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Corfu in March
At around 15°C / 59°F, the sea in Corfu is too cold for most people to swim in March. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Beaches like Paleokastritsa and Glyfada are still worth a visit for the scenery and a walk along the shore. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Corfu in March
Tourism in Corfu slows right down in March. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Corfu in March
In March, ferries between Igoumenitsa and Corfu run on a reduced winter timetable, and storms sometimes cause cancellations. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 March.
Festivals & Holidays in Corfu in March
25 March is Independence Day, a national holiday with school and military parades, and it's traditional to eat fried salt cod with garlic sauce. If Clean Monday falls in March, expect kite flying on hillsides and beaches, and meatless picnics. In Corfu, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Corfu?
March is a good time for Corfu if you're coming for walks, sightseeing and exploring Corfu Old Town, not the beach. Expect highs of around 16°C / 61°F, lows near 7°C / 45°F and rain on around 8 days. The countryside is green, it's quiet and prices are low, but the sea is too cold for most people and the season is only just starting. For swimming, wait until June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Corfu in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Corfu at around 6:30 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 8:00 pm. All times are Greek local time. The Kaiser's Throne viewpoint above Pelekas is a favorite on the west side of the island.
Is it warm in Corfu in March?
March is mild but still unsettled. Spring is arriving, with longer days and green, flowering countryside, but rain is still common and evenings are cool. It's a good month for walking if you pack a waterproof and some layers.
Can I visit Corfu Old Town in March?
Yes. You can explore Corfu Old Town any time of year. In March it's quiet, with few visitors, and some tourist shops and cafés close for the season, but it feels authentic and peaceful. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Do I need a car on Corfu in March?
Yes, if you want to see more than Corfu Town. Bus services are limited in March, and a car makes it easy to reach villages, beaches and viewpoints. Rental rates are among the lowest of the year, but fewer agencies are open.
Is March or April better for visiting Corfu?
April, for most travelers. It's warmer and sunnier, wildflowers are at their best, and more hotels and tavernas reopen as the season begins. Greek Easter often falls in April, a wonderful time to be on an island, though it pushes up demand. March is quieter and cheaper, but more is still closed.
Corfu Weather by Month
