Weather in Ikaria in March
In Ikaria, March brings early-spring weather that is mild and fairly changeable. Temperatures typically peak at around 16°C / 61°F in the afternoon and fall to about 9°C / 48°F at night. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, too cold for most people to swim. There are typically 6 rainy days, with around 63 mm of rain in total. Weather fronts become rarer as the season goes on, and calm, clear days take over. Ikaria is a mountainous island known for strong winds, which funnel down its steep valleys. You get about 12 hours of daylight a day. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. Mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler than the middle of the day. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Ikaria in March
At around 16°C / 61°F, the sea in Ikaria is too cold for most people to swim in March. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Seychelles beach and Nas are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. 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 Ikaria in March
March is one of the quietest months in Ikaria, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Ikaria in March
Ferries to Ikaria from Piraeus run all year, but less often in March, and rough seas can cancel sailings. The island also has an airport with flights from Athens. 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 Ikaria 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 Ikaria, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Ikaria?
March is a good time for Ikaria if you're coming for walks, sightseeing and exploring its Blue Zone villages, not the beach. In numbers: highs of about 16°C / 61°F, lows of 9°C / 48°F and rain on around 6 days in a typical March. 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 Ikaria in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Ikaria at around 6:10 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 7:35 pm. All times are Greek local time. Evenings cool quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
Is March still winter in Ikaria?
March is the turning point. Early in the month it can still feel wintry, with cool winds and the odd storm, but spring usually arrives by the end of it. Wildflowers start to cover the hillsides, the days get noticeably longer and sunny days become more common, though evenings stay cool enough for a jacket.
Is March a good time for walking on Ikaria?
Yes, it's one of the best times. March is ideal for walking, with comfortable temperatures, green hillsides and wildflowers. Carry water and a light layer. Ikaria is known as a Blue Zone, where many people live long lives, and old paths link its mountain villages.
Do I need a car on Ikaria in March?
Yes, if you want to see more than Agios Kirykos. 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 Ikaria?
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.
Ikaria Weather by Month
