Weather in Lesvos in March
Expect cool, fairly changeable weather in Lesvos in March, early spring. Temperatures typically peak at around 16°C / 60°F in the afternoon and fall to about 9°C / 47°F at night. There are typically 6 rainy days, with around 61 mm of rain in total. In the water, expect around 15°C / 59°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Lesvos is Greece's third-largest island, with pine-covered hills in the east and a dry, rocky landscape in the west. Weather fronts become rarer as the season goes on, and calm, clear days take over. Days bring around 12 hours of daylight. Bring a warm coat, layers, an umbrella and shoes that can cope with rain. It's a lovely time for walking, with fresh air and green countryside. 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 Lesvos in March
The sea around Lesvos averages about 15°C / 59°F in March, which is cold for swimming, though a few hardy locals still take a dip. Save swimming plans for June, July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Skala Eresou are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Lesvos in March
Tourism in Lesvos slows right down in March. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. 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. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Lesvos in March
Ferry links from Piraeus to Lesvos continue through March, though with fewer sailings than in summer. 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. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 March. It's worth calling ahead to restaurants, as off-season hours can be irregular.
Festivals & Holidays in Lesvos 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. In Lesvos, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Lesvos?
March is a good time for Lesvos if you're coming for walks, sightseeing and exploring Molyvos, not the beach. Expect highs of around 16°C / 60°F, lows near 9°C / 47°F and rain on around 6 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 Lesvos in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Lesvos 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 7:35 pm. All times are Greek local time. Evenings cool quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
Is March still winter in Lesvos?
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 Molyvos in March?
Yes. You can explore Molyvos 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. Its castle overlooks the harbor and stone houses.
Do I need a car on Lesvos in March?
Yes, if you want to see more than Mytilene. 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 Lesvos?
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.
Lesvos Weather by Month
