Weather in Rhodes in March
March is early spring in Rhodes: mild and fairly changeable. Temperatures typically peak at around 17°C / 63°F in the afternoon and fall to about 12°C / 53°F at night. There are typically 4 rainy days, with around 65 mm of rain in total. Sea temperatures average around 17°C / 63°F, too cold for most people to swim. Spring winds can still be brisk, but the hills turn green and wildflowers appear everywhere. Rhodes is one of the sunniest islands in Greece, and its east coast is usually calmer than the windier west. 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. 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 Rhodes in March
The sea around Rhodes averages about 17°C / 62°F in March, which is cold for swimming, though a few hardy locals still take a dip. Save swimming plans for August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay and Lindos 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 Rhodes in March
Tourism in Rhodes slows right down in March. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. 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. 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 Rhodes in March
Ferries to Rhodes 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 Rhodes in March
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. If Clean Monday falls in March, expect kite flying on hillsides and beaches, and meatless picnics. In Rhodes, 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 Rhodes?
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 Rhodes 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 Rhodes in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Rhodes at around 6:00 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 7:25 pm. All times are Greek local time. Monte Smith hill, above Rhodes Town, is a favorite viewpoint.
Is March still winter in Rhodes?
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 Rhodes Old Town in March?
Yes. You can explore Rhodes Old 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. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Palace of the Grand Master is the highlight.
Do I need a car on Rhodes in March?
Yes, if you want to see more than Rhodes 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 Rhodes?
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.
Rhodes Weather by Month
