Weather in Naxos in March
March is early spring in Naxos: mild and fairly changeable. Daytime highs average around 16°C / 61°F, and nights drop to about 11°C / 51°F. Rain falls on around 5 days, adding up to about 55 mm over the month. The sea averages about 16°C / 61°F, too cold for most people to swim. Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, and its mountainous interior is noticeably cooler than the coast. Spring winds can still be brisk, but the hills turn green and wildflowers appear everywhere. Daylight lasts about 12 hours. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. 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. 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 Naxos in March
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Naxos in March, with the water at around 16°C / 61°F. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches like Plaka and Agios Prokopios are still worth a visit for the scenery and a walk along the shore. 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 Naxos in March
March is one of the quietest months in Naxos, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. 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. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Naxos in March
Ferry links from Piraeus and Rafina to Naxos 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. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 March.
Festivals & Holidays in Naxos 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 Naxos, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. 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 Naxos?
March is a good time for Naxos if you're coming for walks, sightseeing and exploring the mountain villages, not the beach. In numbers: highs of about 16°C / 61°F, lows of 11°C / 51°F and rain on around 5 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 Naxos in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Naxos 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. The Portara, the ancient marble gateway by the harbor, is the island's favorite sunset spot.
Is March still winter in Naxos?
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 the mountain villages of Naxos in March?
Yes. You can explore the mountain villages of Naxos 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. Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos are the best known.
Do I need a car on Naxos in March?
Yes, if you want to see more than Naxos 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 Naxos?
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.
Naxos Weather by Month
