Weather in Kos in March
March in Kos means early-spring conditions: mild and fairly changeable. Expect highs of about 17°C / 63°F and overnight lows near 12°C / 53°F. The sea averages about 17°C / 63°F, too cold for most people to swim. Rain falls on around 4 days, adding up to about 65 mm over the month. Kos is long and fairly flat, with sandy beaches along its coasts and a mountain ridge running along the south of the island. Weather fronts become rarer as the season goes on, and calm, clear days take over. Daylight lasts about 12 hours. 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. It's a lovely time for walking, with fresh air and green countryside. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Kos in March
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Kos in March, with the water at around 17°C / 62°F. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Beaches such as Paradise Beach and Tigaki 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. If you do go in, a wetsuit is a good idea.
Crowds & Prices in Kos in March
Tourism in Kos slows right down in March. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Kos in March
Ferries to Kos from Piraeus run all year, but less often in March, and rough seas can cancel sailings. 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 Kos in March
If Clean Monday falls in March, expect kite flying on hillsides and beaches, and meatless picnics. 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. Locals in Kos mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. 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 Kos?
Yes, as long as you don't expect beach weather. Expect highs of around 17°C / 63°F, lows near 12°C / 53°F and rain on around 4 days. March in Kos brings fresh, spring conditions that are ideal for exploring on foot, with few visitors around. Some hotels and tavernas may still be closed. If warm water is a priority, June, September, October or November would be a better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Kos in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Kos at around 6:05 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 7:30 pm. All times are Greek local time. Evenings cool quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
Is March still winter in Kos?
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.
Can I visit Kos Town in March?
Yes. You can explore Kos 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. The ancient agora and the Castle of the Knights sit right in the center.
Do I need a car on Kos in March?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in March, and some routes stop completely, so a hire car is the easiest way to explore. Rental rates are low off-season, but fewer agencies are open, so book ahead.
Is March or April better for visiting Kos?
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.
Kos Weather by Month
