Weather in Nisyros in March
Expect mild, fairly changeable weather in Nisyros in March, early spring. Daytime highs average around 17°C / 63°F, and nights drop to about 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. Spring winds can still be brisk, but the hills turn green and wildflowers appear everywhere. Nisyros is a round volcanic island, and its crater floor can feel much hotter than the coast on still days. Daylight lasts about 12 hours. 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. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Nisyros in March
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Nisyros in March, with the water at around 17°C / 62°F. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. If you do want to try, pick a calm, sunny day and a sheltered spot. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Nisyros in March
March is one of the quietest months in Nisyros, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. 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 Nisyros in March
In March, ferries between Kos and Nisyros run on a reduced winter timetable, and storms sometimes cause cancellations. Life goes on in the main town, but most resort hotels and beach tavernas close until spring. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter 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 Nisyros 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 Nisyros, 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 Nisyros?
March is a good time for Nisyros if you're coming for walks, sightseeing and walking into the volcano, not the beach. In numbers: highs of about 17°C / 63°F, lows of 12°C / 53°F and rain on around 4 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, October or November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Nisyros in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Nisyros 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 Nisyros?
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 Stefanos volcanic crater in March?
Yes. The Stefanos volcanic crater is accessible all year, and it's quiet in March. Check the weather before you go, as rain and wind can make paths slippery and exposed spots cold. You can walk down onto the crater floor.
Do I need a car on Nisyros 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 Nisyros?
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.
Nisyros Weather by Month
