Weather in Mykonos in March
March in Mykonos means early-spring conditions: mild and fairly changeable. Daytime highs average around 16°C / 61°F, and nights drop to about 11°C / 51°F. There are typically 5 rainy days, with around 55 mm of rain in total. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, too cold for most people to swim. Weather fronts become rarer as the season goes on, and calm, clear days take over. Mykonos is small, low and famously windy, which is why its landmark windmills stand on the ridge above town. Days bring around 12 hours of daylight. Bring layers, a warm sweater and a light waterproof, as the weather can turn. Mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler than the middle of the day. It's a lovely time for walking, with fresh air and green countryside. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Mykonos in March
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Mykonos in March, with the water at around 16°C / 60°F. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Psarou, Platis Gialos and Ornos 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. If you do go in, a wetsuit is a good idea.
Crowds & Prices in Mykonos in March
Tourism in Mykonos slows right down in March. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. 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 Mykonos in March
Ferries to Mykonos from Piraeus and Rafina 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 resort side of the island shuts down, with most hotels and beach tavernas closed until spring. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 March. The beach clubs and most of the nightlife shut down completely.
Festivals & Holidays in Mykonos 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 Mykonos mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Mykonos?
Yes, as long as you don't expect beach weather. Expect highs of around 16°C / 61°F, lows near 11°C / 51°F and rain on around 5 days. March in Mykonos 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 or October would be a better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Mykonos in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Mykonos 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 7:40 pm. All times are Greek local time. Little Venice and the windmills above it are the classic places to watch it.
Is March still winter in Mykonos?
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 Delos in March?
Probably not. Boat trips to Delos mostly run from late spring to autumn, so in March there are few or no regular departures, and rough seas can stop small boats anyway. If it's a must, ask locally about a private boat on a calm day. Boats leave from Mykonos Old Port, and the site itself has almost no shade.
Do I need a car on Mykonos 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 Mykonos?
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.
Mykonos Weather by Month
