16 Best Cheap Places to Travel in March

Written by Joni Sweet, Anietra Hamper and Shandley McMurray
Updated Jan 12, 2024

You can score a great deal on a cheap vacation to somewhere awesome in March. As long as you time it right (March is the tail end of the high season in the tropics), there are plenty of savings to be had on holidays, ranging from sunshine-laden beach destinations to cosmopolitan city locales.

With all that money you save, you'll be able to splurge on a better hotel, finer restaurants, and private tours. While you'll want to avoid booking during America's Spring Break (usually mid-month), March is a fantastic time to travel to tropical, cultural, and winter destinations. To get the best rates, book well in advance and play around with your travel dates if you can.

For ideas on places to visit that are most likely to have off-peak pricing and decent weather at this time of year, see our list of the best cheap places to travel in March.

On This Page:

Tulum, Mexico
Orlando, Florida
Jaipur, India
Montego Bay, Jamaica
San Antonio, Texas
Belize
Montreal, Canada
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Cartagena, Colombia
Rome, Italy
Cancún, Mexico
Lisbon, Portugal
Vancouver, Canada
Bariloche, Argentina
Tokyo, Japan
Map of Cheap Places to Travel in March

Tulum, Mexico

The seaside town of Tulum, Mexico on the Yucatan peninsula is a perfect vacation spot for March travel, especially for those looking for a luxury vacation on the cheap. December and January are the most popular tourist months for this hidden Mexican paradise. In March, hotel and airfare rates drop, so the luxury resorts that might be out of reach other times of the year are more affordable. The smaller hotels that are slightly cheaper other times of the year will also have discounted rates.

Tulum has a nice mix of things to do, and it is a fun alternative to other more populated Mexican beach destinations. Relaxing on the Playa Paraiso beach and listening to the Caribbean Sea is a top activity in Tulum. You can also plan excursions with fewer people to the Mayan ruins in the area; go snorkeling in the underground caverns, called cenotes; and visit the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.

Read More: Visiting Tulum: Things to See & Do

Orlando, Florida

It is hard to escape the crowds in Orlando, Florida any time of the year, especially at Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, but if you are looking to save money on one-day passes to the park, airline rates, hotel rooms, and work in comfortable weather while dodging hurricane season, March offers nice vacation deals. Rates will just be dropping after the winter holiday season, when families overload Orlando between November and February.

This time of year in Orlando has the most comfortable weather, averaging temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit, which is nice, especially for doing outdoor activities like visiting the theme parks. Lower rates mean you can add an extra day or two to your vacation to visit Sea World Orlando and the Mall at Millenia. If you have time for the 45-minute drive from Orlando, it is worth squeezing in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex while you are in the region.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Orlando

Jaipur, India

March is not only one of the cheapest times to visit Jaipur, India's "Pink City," but it's also one of the most colorful times of year during the famous festival of colors, Holi. During this beloved holiday, which takes place every March (the exact date varies with the lunar cycle), celebrants gather with family and neighbors to playfully toss pigmented powder on one another, often on the street or in public parks. Jaipur, and Rajasthan as a whole, are known to have tons of enthusiasm for the annual event.

If you're in the city a day before Holi, you can also see the annual Elephant Festival. It features a parade of decorated and dressed-up elephants, horses, and camels, plus quirky games like an elephant tug-of-war. Head to the Jaipur Polo Ground to get up close to the action.

Beyond festivals, another reason why Mach is a great time to visit Jaipur is the weather. Expect lots of sunshine and warm temperatures that are still far more comfortable than what you'll experience during Rajasthan's notoriously steamy summers. That makes it easier to enjoy Jaipur's top attractions and things to do, including touring the City Palace, marveling at the giant astronomical tools at Jantar Mantar, and exploring the Amber Fort's underground tunnels.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

While March is still technically the high season in Montego Bay, you're bound to find a great deal when traveling during the spring, especially if you avoid the Easter holidays. One of the cheapest cities in Jamaica, this tourist hot spot is a haven for cruise ships and tourists looking for a steal.

The weather at this time of year is ideal for lounging beachside while sipping coconut water. March visitors will also experience highs in the upper-70s to mid-80s and enough sun to make them thankful for the refreshing turquoise water.

Spend your time frolicking on the sand, doing cannonballs in the hotel pool, hiking through the countryside, or checking out the action in MoBay's bustling downtown.

San Antonio, Texas

Strolling along the San Antonio River Walk in Texas is even more exciting when you know you are saving money on your lodging and airfare in March. Really any time between November and April you will find cheaper rates on travel to the city. The bonus for visiting San Antonio in March is the comfortable weather, which averages in the mid 70s. San Antonio is a popular destination for in-state tourists, so summertime has the most crowds, higher Texas temperatures, humidity, and peak-season rates.

March is a great time to visit the popular Alamo and other historical sites like the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and the San Fernando Cathedral. There are many non-historical places to visit, too, like the popular San Antonio Zoo, Sea World San Antonio, Six Flags amusement park, or take a leisurely sightseeing tour on the water along the three-mile River Walk.

Read More: Top Places to Visit in San Antonio

Belize

While other warm-weather destinations tend to get crowded with spring breakers this time of year, Belize sees a slight dip in tourism in March, making way for cheaper rates on hotels and tours. It's still a lovely time to go, though. The hot, sunny weather is perfect for beachgoers in Ambergris Caye; it's an excellent time for birdwatching in Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, and you can catch the beginning of the cashew harvest at Crooked Tree village.

Perhaps one of the best things to do in Belize is see the country's famous Mayan ruins. The most important one, Caracol, covers 25,000 acres and is home to a 143-foot pyramid that towers higher than any other man-made structure in Belize. Other archeological sites to visit in Belize include Lamanai, Altun Ha, Xunantunich, and Cahel Pech. Wherever you go, these ancient attractions will make your beach vacation far more interesting.

Montreal, Canada

Take advantage of the hotel vacancies that are in abundance in March in Montreal and plan a cheap getaway in one of the most enjoyable cities in Canada. You can get discounted hotel rates and airfare to Montreal this time of year, plus you can easily find last-minute bargains, whereas you will have to book well in advance for summer travel. March is a great time to enjoy some of the top attractions like Canada's largest Ferris wheel, the La Grande Roue de Montréal, which will have shorter lines or none at all.

While March temperatures in Montreal only hit about 35 degrees Fahrenheit, the walkable downtown makes it easy to duck in and out of stores and restaurants to get warm. There is also the heated Underground City Mall and walkways to other parts of downtown, so you never really have to be outside very long. There are many great things to see in Montreal that stay open even in cooler months, so you can walk to the shops in Old Montreal, trek up to the Parc du Mont-Royal, go inside the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, and visit the featured exhibits at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Montreal

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If visiting a soft, white sandy beach tops your list of March vacation requirements, you must visit Punta Cana. This idyllic Dominican Republic wonderland is home to over 30 miles of glorious beaches. In March, you can enjoy them without the stress of monitoring your bank account.

With temperatures in the high 80s, it's easy to bask in the sun or play in the turquoise waves all day in Punta Cana. Hop on a horse for a romantic ride you'll never forget, play a round of golf, or take in the 16^th-century Italian ruins at Altos de Chavón.

While March is still technically high season in the Dominican Republic, travelers can expect good deals at this time, and knowing that the DR is a pretty cheap destination year-round, a trip to Punta Cana in March won't break the bank.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands is the beach destination of choice for Europeans looking for a temperate year-round climate. It boasts two high seasons: summer and winter, so visiting in between in March means you'll be looking at fewer crowds, better rates on hotels, and cheaper flights.

Well situated just off the southwest coast of Morocco, this group of isles boasts comfy temperatures at all times, with the highs reaching the mid-70s in March. There's also less rain in spring, which makes hiking and beachin' popular activities, especially in the north of Tenerife.

At the largest (and cheapest) of the Canary Islands, you'll find a ton of fun things to do with the extra cash you banked. Don't miss the island's main attraction: Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts the world's third-highest volcano.

Cartagena, Colombia

You'll want to pack a swimsuit when you visit Cartagena in March because it will be both hot (high 80s) and humid. With little rain, this is a great month to practice your front crawl in the resort's swimming pool; wander the narrow streets of the walled city; or enjoy a tasty meal al fresco in the historic city center.

Many of the restaurants are incredibly popular during the high season, so dining out during March means you may be able to get away without making a reservation.

Since March trails the high season, you can expect to snag a deal on everything from airfare to accommodations to food. Always wanted to stay in an opulent luxury hotel? March offers the chance to do so without breaking the bank!

You can continue to enjoy savings through the many free things to do in Cartagena. Watch dancers perform for tips at Plaza Bolívar, check out the Old City Walls (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), get good luck by touching the bronze statue La Gorda Gertrudis at Plaza Santo Domingo, and wander the narrow passageways of Bazurto Market.

Rome, Italy

Since there is so much to see and do in Rome, planning your trip when the rates are most affordable makes sense, and March is one of the best months to find those deals. Once the summer crowds hit, the hotel and airfare rates will rise, along with Rome's heat and humidity. With average temperatures close to 60 degrees Fahrenheit in March, you can walk Italy's capital city comfortably, but the lows drop to the mid 30s, so you'll want to pack layers.

Rome is one of those destinations that you can hardly fit into a week, so getting the great rates in March will enable you to stretch your dollar for a longer vacation stay.

Without the major summer crowds to contend with, you can more easily get onto the most popular tours to the Pantheon, Colosseum, and the Vatican. For time on your own, you can stroll the Porta Portese Sunday morning flea market for antiques and souvenirs; toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, a 1700s masterpiece and one of the must-sees while in Rome; travel back in time with a walk through the Roman Forum, archeological ruins that date back two millennia; or walk up the Spanish Steps.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Rome

Cancún, Mexico

Like Tulum, nearby Cancún is a cheap and cheerful Mexican destination more than worthy of a March visit. It's a popular time to travel to this happening spot. Multiple flights are offered daily, which means you'll be able to grab a great price. Yes, you'll be there with many others, but the money you save on flights can go towards renting a private cabana by the pool.

As for a place to stay, Cancún is packed with fantastic options to suit any budget. While you may not score major savings on a luxury five-star resort at this time of year, you can always take advantage of the cheaper, budget-friendly options. Plus, the bevy of all-inclusive resorts will help keep your pocketbook in the black.

While you're there, spend your days visiting Cancun's best beaches, check out the Mayan Ruins at Chichén Itzà, or strap on some gear and snorkel or scuba the Cancún National Marine Park. Another worthwhile thing to do in Cancún is visiting the Maya Museum (Museo Maya de Cancún). It explains the roots of Mayan culture in the Riviera Maya through some 350 artifacts, including the remains of the 10,000-year-old "Woman of the Palms."

Lisbon, Portugal

The low early-spring rates in Lisbon make March a cheaper time to visit Portugal's capital city. The weather is warm, averaging 63 degrees Fahrenheit, so walking the city and even hitting the beach (while wearing a sweater) is possible without all the tourists who visit in the high-season. Lisbon is not as popular as other European destinations, so that is another reason you are likely to find discounts for your overall vacation budget.

The relaxed nature of Lisbon makes it nice to just hang out at a local café for fresh-made pastries and coffee, or find a guitarist strumming ancient lullabies on a street plaza. With its comfortable climate and dwindling rain (in comparison to winter months), March weather makes it easy to walk the historical neighborhoods of Lisbon to admire it's colonial architecture.

Get the best views of the city from the Tram 28, which takes you through Lisbon's best neighborhoods, including The Alfama, Lisbon's Old Quarter, with its steep hills and panoramic views of the city. Sign up for a 90-minute HIPPOtrip amphibious tour for a fun and animated excursion around Lisbon's best sites on land and water. If it happens to rain, check out one of Lisbon's top museums, such as the National Museum of Ancient Art or the Museu do Orient.

Vancouver, Canada

Visiting Vancouver in March is a great bargain, especially for winter sports enthusiasts who want to get in a few last runs on the slopes. Hotel rates this time of year are rock bottom, so it is possible to make Vancouver your home base and get in some skiing and snowboarding on Grouse Mountain or plan a day trip to the slopes in Whistler, located 75 miles north.

Vancouver is an outdoor lover's destination, not just for those who love the snow. The benefit of visiting in March, besides the deep discounts in rates, is that temperatures average 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can get out and enjoy Vancouver's Stanley Park or Queen Elizabeth Park. With the magnificent Grouse Mountain overlooking the city, you can ski one of the 33 slopes or hit the two-mile Grouse Grind trail with more than 2,800 stairs.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

Bariloche, Argentina

For a cheap South American spring getaway, you cannot beat Bariloche, Argentina in March. This is the shoulder season in the region, so hotel rates will be at a low point compared to the more popular travel season in the summer and winter. This is a great location to book as a side visit to Buenos Aires, or make this your home base and plan your trip the other way around to take advantage of the deep discounts. You can take a two-hour plane ride between the cities.

There are lots of outdoor experiences in Bariloche, from kayaking and mountain biking to hiking and skiing. The Nahuel Huapi National Park is a must-see during your visit. An excursion to Circuito Chico panoramic lookout or a kayak trip are other nice ways to experience the region. In the mid and low seasons, which include March, you can negotiate rates for excursion tickets to save you even more on your trip.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Argentina

Tokyo, Japan

Skip the peak summer tourist season in Tokyo, Japan, and save money while soaking in the stunning cherry blossoms in spring. March is one of the most affordable times to visit Tokyo before the hotel rates and humidity start to go up after April. This time of year, you will not have to worry about the long lines at attractions and packed subway trains, although Tokyo is a naturally crowded city of nearly 14 million on any given day, even without tourists.

When you visit Tokyo, be prepared to encounter a city that is constantly alive (day and night) with an eclectic mix of futuristic technology all around and stunning gardens. You will enjoy learning about Japan's history at the Tokyo National Museum, the local temples, Imperial Palace, and the major shopping and entertainment areas like Odaiba on Tokyo Bay.