24 of the best places to visit in March 2025

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1. Madhya Pradesh, India

Why go in March? For the chance to spot central India’s majestic tigers in their natural habitat

With central India’s hot summer on its way, and afternoons already hitting 30C, March is a great time to visit Madhya Pradesh – particularly if spotting tigers is high on your agenda. At Pench National Park – said to have inspired Kipling’s The Jungle Book — the season’s shrinking waterholes tempt an estimated 65 of the elusive big cats closer, offering rare sighting opportunities. It’s also worth making tracks to the magnificent Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, which is at the heart of the Hindu spring festival of Maha Shivratri, and to the Unesco world heritage site of Sanchi, a sprawling Buddhist complex dating back to the second century BC. Then, there’s Gwalior Fort, also known as the “Gibraltar of India”, where a nightly light show tells the story of the centuries-old Man Mandir palace while bathing the edifice’s ornately tiled, 800m-wide walls in rainbow hues.

Make it happen

The 22-room, national park-set Sterling Padam Pench makes a comfortable base for wildlife lovers of all stripes

Exodus Adventure Travels has a 16-day India Tiger Safari tour that includes over a dozen game drives at three different national parks, including Pench National Park, so you’ll have plenty of chances to spot these big cats in the wild.

2. Uluwatu, Bali

Why go in March? For superlative surfing, sunsets and Balinese New Year

An off-the-beaten-path surfing haven on the southwest tip of Bali’s Bukit peninsula, Uluwatu is arguably at its best in March, with the rainy season tapering off, daytime temperatures hovering around 30C and the Indian Ocean starting to serve up some serious swells. When on dry land, carve out time to visit the Hindu temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu. Perched atop a dramatic limestone cliff, the temple’s amphitheatre makes a great vantage point from which to catch one of the peninsula’s typically fiery sunsets, alongside a demonstration of traditional sacred kecak dances. Late March also brings Nyepi, Bali’s “Day of Silence”, when the entire island pauses for quiet introspection. The following day is New Year’s Day, which brings not only a sense of renewal and joy, but parties, bonfires and dazzling fireworks displays.

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The five-star Alila Villas Uluwatu offers prime ocean views from its 50m infinity pool, a standout collection of modern Indonesian artwork and renowned restaurants the Warung and CIRE

See this part of Bali on a wider Indonesia tour with Globus. Its 12-day Gems of Indonesia: From Bali to Java tour includes highlights such as touring Puri Sukawati royal villa with a member of the royal family and a performance of Ramayana ballet at Prambanan Temple.

3. Windward Islands, Caribbean

Why go in March? For the driest month to go tropical island-hopping

For anyone who absolutely doesn’t want rain on their Caribbean holiday, March is the ideal time for a jaunt to any of the Windward Islands, in the southeast corner of that luscious sea. With short island-hopping flights on top of cruises, you don’t have to pick just one. But the choice consists of postcard-perfect St Lucia, the spice isle of Grenada, the mini archipelago of St Vincent and the Grenadines, nature-rich Dominica and the odd one out, Martinique — a French overseas department. St Lucia is the most central; the twin peaks of the Pitons are the islands’ most enchanting sight.

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Jade Mountain tops hotel lists in St Lucia for good reason. Tucked away near Soufrière on the island’s southwest, suites in this luxury sanctuary sacrifice a wall or two to make way for views over the grand, green heights of St Lucia’s Pitons

Smithsonian Journeys has teamed up with cruise company Ponant for an expert-led nine-day sail through the Windward Islands, covering the culture and nature of Dominica, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, Grenada and more

smithsonianjourneys.org

• Which is the best Caribbean island?
• Best Caribbean cruises

4. Tokyo, Japan

Why go in March? For cherry blossom parties

It’s the regrettably brief window when the sakura (cherry blossoms) are in full splendour that makes them so treasured in Japan. As lovely as it is to view blossoms in the historic surrounds of Kyoto or rural areas such as Mount Yoshino, this is also peak time for hotels getting booked out. Instead, why not enjoy the contrasts of Tokyo, with splashes of cherry-pink reflected in the Imperial Palace moat and glass-fronted office buildings, as everyone heads out for hanami (blossom-viewing) parties. In recent years, full flowering has occurred in the last or second-last week of March in Tokyo, slightly earlier than in Kyoto.

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Hotel New Otani has rooms overlooking its own ten-acre Japanese garden, as well as the Imperial Palace’s. Both have prolific cherry blossoms; the former features 19 species with staggered blooming dates and pink illuminations

My Japan Guide offers two locally-led day tours for up to six people around some of Tokyo’s best sakura sites, including a traditional hanami picnic

myjapanguide.com

• Best things to do in Tokyo
• Best hotels in Tokyo

5. Lisbon, Portugal

Why go in March? For a capital city with plenty of heart

If you’re after a city break this month, Lisbon is probably your best bet for warmth among the bigger European capitals, with a daily average of around 15C. The nearby Atlantic Ocean that keeps winters mild can also cause fog to roll in, but somehow that only adds to the atmosphere, especially among the steep, cobbled streets of the Alfama district. Still, days are more likely than not to be sunny, and there won’t yet be too many visitors to the restaurants and fado bars of Bairro Alto, or the great monuments to Portuguese exploration by the Belem waterside.

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Memmo Alfama is a former shoe-polish factory turned sleek boutique hotel. Overlooking the old town and the Tagus river, Memmo has an unbeatable terrace complete with pool and lush wine bar

Indus Travels does a six-day Iconic Lisbon tour, covering culture in Belem, local Lisbon delicacies, the nightlife of Bairro Alto, and trips to coastal Cascais and magical Sintra

• Best things to do in Lisbon
• Best Airbnbs in London

6. Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Why go in March? For mighty mammals on and off an Indian Ocean jewel

March is the last month of the winter dry season in the popular southwest of Sri Lanka, and as well as being a good time generally for a mix of beach holiday, cultural discoveries and wildlife-spotting in national parks, the first half of the month is also peak time for catching the blue whale migration off the south-coast beach town of Mirissa. Other whale species have a longer season here, and if you head on east to Yala National Park, you’ll encounter elephants and what is likely to be the world’s largest concentration of leopards. Four-poster beds and traditional Sri Lankan art give a heritage touch to Morning Star, a restful place despite its location on Mirissa’s coast road, and with a beach just a short stroll away.

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Just 500m from Mirissa beach, the Nine Mirissa is a five-star forested paradise that opened in 2024. Modern and magnificent, the Nine features an outdoor pool, garden, lounge, and plush rooms with huge picture windows framing sea views

Whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa forms part of On The Go’s ten-day Wild About Sri Lanka tour. It takes in the country’s best wildlife and culture spots, including Yala and Bundala National Parks

• Best Sri Lanka tours
• Best beaches in Sri Lanka

7. Mendoza, Argentina

Why go in March? For wine harvests in the foothills of the Andes

The Andes are not just a fantastic backdrop to the vineyards of Mendoza — they are responsible for the combination of a dry climate and plentiful meltwater for irrigation that has put malbecs and other wines of Argentina on the map. The fortnight straddling February and March brings the Vendimia: not just a harvest festival but more like a dazzling carnival in the leafy city. March is also a beautiful time in many other parts of this vast country, with summer drawing to a close in Buenos Aires, and autumn colours taking hold in the Patagonian Lake District.

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For unbridled indulgence, SB Winemaker’s House is the place to be. Run by Susana Balbo and her daughter — the name behind Argentina’s women-led wine label — the estate flows with tipples, spa treatments and total luxury

Bamba Travel offers a four-day tour dedicated to Mendoza, taking in stunning Andean landscapes, excellent local food, jaw-dropping hikes, peaceful lagoons and — of course — sumptuous world-class wine

• Best things to do in Argentina

8. Chamonix, France

Why go in March? For world-class spring skiing in the shadow of Mont Blanc

Though ski season reaches into late April or even May in some high-up resorts like Val Thorens, March is the last full month of snow across the French Alps. Apart from the first week of the month, it’s not usually holiday time for French schools, so demand should be lower than in February. Resorts range from traditional Alpine villages to purpose-built modern ski stations, but none bar Chamonix can boast the highest mountain in the Alps. The valley at the foot of Mont Blanc has several linked resorts besides Chamonix proper, including Argentière and Vallorcine by the Swiss border.

Make it happen

Self-cater to your own ski schedule in MGM’s luxurious Cristal De Jade chalets. Bright, chic and ultimately cosy, the residences are perfect for families. There’s a central main pool, spa and sauna, ready-to-heat local meal options and it sits right next to Aiguille du Midi cable car

Looking for more than just your average ski holiday? Try ski touring with Chamonix Guides, which has multi-day ski tours staying at mountain huts — the most famous Alpine tour is the six-day Haute Route between Chamonix and Zermatt

chamonix-guides.com

• Best ski resorts in France

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Why go in March? For mesmerising landscapes under clear skies

The varied regions of Vietnam hit their high note at different times of year, but March happens to be dry season at all points of the country’s slender S-curve — and is the month when Ha Long Bay is in its sweet spot between the end of winter haze and the start of spring rains. It’s a popular time to see Vietnam’s best-loved landscape, but there are enough limestone islands dotted around the bay for everyone to share. It’s a demanding day trip from Hanoi; best to stay in the capital to enjoy its own heritage charms and take an overnight cruise in the bay. Hanoi E Central Hotel is a small but well-turned-out base for city exploration, occupying a townhouse a short distance from Hoan Kiem Lake.

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Glamorous Hôtel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba sits on Cat Ba island, its toes licked by cyan seas and white sands. Channelling old opulence alongside modern amenities, the hotel has sun terrace, swimming pool, fitness centre and sea views across the board

Luxuriate in a slow, three-day cruise around the bay’s extraordinary scenery with Bamba Travel. Spend the days sun bathing, swimming, cooking, caving, kayaking and visiting floating villages; evening brings the sunset’s crimson skies

• Best hotels in Vietnam
• Best things to do in Vietnam

10. Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Why go in March? For Mayan ruins and beach escapes before the rains arrive

At the Mayan city of Chichen Itza, the days around the March and September equinoxes see a curious effect at the Temple of Kukulcan, with the pyramid’s steps appearing to cast a snake-like shadow that ends at a carved stone serpent’s head. Tricks of ancient astronomy aside, it’s late in the dry season here and in Mexico generally — though if you want to visit the beaches around Cancun, try to avoid US spring break. A hotel on site at Chichen Itza gets you to the ticket gate earlier, but the city of Valladolid also makes a great central base, on the way to other Maya cities such as beachside Tulum and less-visited Ek’ Balam. The colonnades and courtyard garden of Hotel Posada San Juan are a great place to cool off in Valladolid, 30 minutes by road from Chichen Itza.

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The tiny boutique hotel of Verde Morada in Valladolid is a converted 19th-century masonry house. Its handful of rooms give an intimate stay including an excellent café, winding garden, small pool and traditional Mayan decor

G Adventures has an eight-day Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula: Mayan Ruins & Cenotes tour, taking in the best of the region including Chichen Itza, the ruins of Tulum, crystalline cenotes and a visit to a working ranch.

• Best family hotels in Cancun
• Best beaches in Tulum and Cancun

11. Valencia, Spain

Why go in March? For a cathartic end to winter in Spain’s third-largest city

The Spanish festival calendar barely lets up: between carnival season (February or early March) and the parades of Holy Week (late March or April), the citizens of Valencia make their own fiery contribution with Fallas, or Falles in Valencian Catalan. Daily barrages of firecrackers sound out from March 1 up to the feast of St Joseph on the 19th, but it’s the last five days that see the city taken over by giant sculptures, many satirising recent events and all of which are ceremonially burnt at the end. With temperatures mainly in the mid-teens, it’s a mild if not especially quiet time for a city break in this trove of historic and modern architecture, and home of paella. On the edge of Valencia’s historic centre, the Vincci Lys Hotel allows a visual reset from the festival outside, with an eclectic mix of decorative styles smoothed through with muted tones.

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Ruzafa, the coolest neighbourhood in the city, is home to YOURS, a minimalist boutique hotel and former laundry. Secluded, spacious and overlooking the city, YOURS is perfect for exploring Ruzafa’s laid-back bistros and trendy boutiques

The eight-day Contrasts of Valencia tour with Titan Travel takes an in-depth look at the city’s myriad, marvellous personalities, covering art, history, food, nature, modernity, science and more

• Best things to do in Valencia
• Best hotels in Valencia

12. Washington DC, US

Why go in March? For America’s own National Cherry Blossom Festival

Whether or not the politics boil over, March in the US capital is usually mild, unlike the summer months in this notoriously humid city. The end of the month is peak season, but with good reason: clouds of pink cherry blossoms reflected in the Tidal Basin. As in Japan, which gifted the trees more than a century ago, the timing can be unpredictable — the best flowering may even be in early April. But coming to Washington DC to find bare branches is no disaster when you have one of the world’s greatest concentrations of museums and fine monuments at the heart of it all.

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Super-cool Line DC is a former neoclassical church near the Adams Morgan district. The art-dripped hotel features painfully trendy interiors, curated rooms, four restaurants and even its own indie radio station

Discover every bright white inch of Washington DC with Trailfinders’ five-day city break tour. Visit diverse neighbourhoods, the Potomac river, hit the shops and see the grand memorials and monuments

trailfinders.com

• Best things to do in Washington DC
• Best hotels in Washington DC

13. Auckland, New Zealand

Why go in March? For culture and outdoor beauty on lingering summer days

In March, New Zealand begins the switch from late summer to autumn. It’s usually a busy time for the wine harvest on the North and South Islands, but otherwise quieter than in December and January, even though temperatures are down only slightly from their summer highs. The Auckland Arts Festival takes up most of the month in the nation’s biggest city, while the capital Wellington sees the tail end of the New Zealand Fringe Festival. It’s a fabulous time for hiking and though March may be a bit early for autumn colour, remember that the country’s native tree species are in any case evergreen.

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For something a little quiet with a lot of cool, try the Convent Hotel in Grey Lynn — a converted nunnery that’s kept its 22 rooms awash with historic character. A seriously memorable (and affordable) stay in a trendy food-and-drink neighbourhood

Discover Auckland on Intrepid Travel’s Enchanting Northland tour, where the city sandwiches three days of cruising, swimming and kayaking the Bay of Islands above

• Best things to do in New Zealand

14. Sicily, Italy

Why go in March? For a sweet start to spring under the almond trees

Warmer days begin to work their way up the boot of Italy this month, but it’s the island of Sicily that signals early spring most beautifully, as almond trees come into flower. Head to the city of Agrigento and its ancient Greek temples in the first week of March for the Festa del Mandorlo in Fiore, with dances and delicacies celebrating the almond blossoms. Across Sicily it should be sunny and fresh, with average temperatures in the mid-teens: a great time to visit ahead of the tourist curve, although some hotels may not be open before Easter.

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If you’re wanting a getaway in a getaway, look to Masseria Agnello — a secluded 19th-century estate and agricultural farm in the rural north of Agrigento. Careful restoration has made a focus of its original features, while outside the pool and terrace are set off by spectacular views

Cox & Kings’ Classic Sicily itinerary is eight days packed with all of the island’s best bits, and a few fun extras thrown in, like wine tasting near Mount Etna and street food in Palermo

• Best things to do in Sicily
• Best hotels in Sicily

15. Galapagos, Ecuador

Why go in March? For shoulder season in the islands that inspired Darwin

There’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos: their equatorial position keeps temperatures from big swings, and even the December–May wet season is marked more by short showers than constant downpours. In this naturalist’s paradise, there’s always some astonishing animal behaviour going on. Timing then might involve human considerations, in avoiding popular holiday periods in December–January and July–August (cruise passengers note: seas can be choppy then). March is a perfect time to see the islands in bloom, with marine iguanas nesting on Fernandina and male frigatebirds displaying their red throats.

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Hotel La Isla Galapagos is on Isla Santa Cruz, with spacious suites that come with hot tubs, views and excellent hospitality

Intrepid Travel offer exceptional Galapagos cruises; their eight-day Pure Galapagos jaunt takes in Islas Fernandina, Isabela, Santiago, Santa Cruz, Bartolome, Sombrero Chino and North Seymour.

• Best Galapagos cruises
• Best Galapagos tours

16. Jebel Akhdar, Oman

Why go in March? For perfumed breezes in some of the Middle East’s highest mountains

Though the term now includes the coast around the capital Muscat, “Oman” once referred only to the interior, between the endless sand dunes of the Empty Quarter and the Al-Hajar Mountains, which reach up almost 3,000m (9,840ft) at Jebel Akhdar. March is a fine time to be by the Arabian Sea, but it’s worth coming inland too, to see the circular fort and livestock market in the old capital Nizwa, mud-brick villages amid date plantations, and the great canyons around Jebel Akhdar, where mountain communities are beginning to harvest their prized damask roses.

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Omani mountain opulence is summed up at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar, perched on the edge of a huge canyon. Five-star seclusion, six restaurants, spa, clifftop infinity pool and personal villa hosts sets Anantara apart.

Visit Jebel Akhdar and Nizwa as part of Wild Frontiers’ Northern Oman tour, marvelling at the Hajar mountains, Wahiba Sands and cultural Bedouin landscapes.

• Best hotels in Oman

17. Svalbard, Norway

Why go in March? For adventures in sun and snow on Arctic islands

Longyearbyen is the world’s northernmost settlement that visitors can get to (relatively) easily and in early March it welcomes the sun back. Norway’s Arctic archipelago of Svalbard actually leaves polar night behind in February — it’s just that the mountain walls flanking its main town continue to block the low sun. March temperatures can be unpredictable, but for those who want to try winter activities in single rather than double digits below zero, this is usually a great month for dog-sledding, snowmobiling and (freeze permitting) ice cave tours, as daylight rapidly conquers the skies.

Make it happen

Funken Lodge is an easy choice in this little outpost town; the boutique hotel offers immensely quaffable cocktails, fur-lined firesides, modern rooms and considerate touches such as soothing moisturiser for biting Arctic days.

Cruises around Svalbard sadly have to wait until summer when the ice melts, but Hurtigruten is the king of Svalbard activities year round. Book March-time dogsledding expeditions, snowmobile safaris, ice caving and more.

hurtigrutensvalbard.com

• Best things to do in Norway
• Best hotels in Norway

18. Paphos, Cyprus

Why go in March? For divine walks in the eastern Mediterranean

If you’re looking to emulate the goddess Aphrodite, said to have been born in the waves along the coast near Paphos, you’re better off visiting later in spring for less chilly bathing. But if your priority in Cyprus is touring the remains of ancient temples and taking hikes in the mountains with wildflowers bursting forth all around, then come in March, when seaside temperatures are mostly in the high teens and the sun is a friend to outdoor activities. Not all hotels will be open yet, but you’ll certainly be ahead of the crowds. West of the beach resort-cum-heritage site of Paphos lies the Akamas Peninsula, a national park with glorious hikes — as far away from Ayia Napa as you can get on the island. The first five-star hotel in Paphos when it opened in 1985, Annabelle is still a winner, with its large seaside gardens, through which weave a series of palm-shaded pools.

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Five-star Almyra offers Mediterranean minimalism on Paphos’ beachside. Ideal for families, it has kids’ clubs, crèche, spas, gym, tennis courts, multiple swimming pools and excellent menus.

The seven-night Walking and Sightseeing in Western Cyprus tour from HF Holidays is ideal for those keen on exploring a region on foot. You’ll be based in Paphos, with walks in the Akamas peninsula and the Troodos mountains led by local guides.

hfholidays.co.uk

• Best hotels in Cyprus
• Best beaches in Cyprus

19. Sydney, Australia

Why go in March? For an Indian summer on the Pacific

Summer takes its slow leave from Sydney across the month — though visitors from more sun-deprived climes aren’t likely to feel short-changed. With sea temperatures still at max, there are many days yet for splashing about on the city’s legendary beaches. School holidays don’t start until early April, so it’s not a crowded time, with the possible exception of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, right at the start of March. In even-numbered years, the three-month long Biennale of Sydney arts festival kicks off in mid-March. More moderate sun makes this an ideal time for activities low on shade — time to try the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb? — and if you’re using Sydney as a gateway to the rest of Australia, while the tropical far north of the country is still in rainy season, you’re good to go everywhere else. Mrs Banks Hotel was once a bank. Built in 1914, it has suavely styled rooms in the Paddington neighbourhood, near Centennial Park and Sydney Cricket Ground.

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With large windows streaming sunlight upon your pillowy bed, Spicers Potts Point makes it hard to leave. Comprised of 20 beautiful rooms in three 1880 Victorian townhouses, Spicers is set in a gloriously leafy neighbourhood of boutiques and cafés.

Best of Sydney and the Blue Mountains with Intrepid Travel brings you the top sights of Sydney and the jaw-dropping Unesco Blue Mountains, while working with First Nations guides and environmental partners.

• Best hotels in Sydney
• Best things to do in Sydney

20. Atlantic Coast, The Gambia

Why go in March? For reliably sunny days in mainland Africa’s smallest nation

When a continued cold spell drives you to seek an instant blast of heat in March, consider the western end of the African continent — rain is a rarity in March, unlike in much of eastern and central Africa. The Gambia is one of the world’s oddest-shaped countries, thanks to borders set in the colonial era: it’s essentially 200 miles of languid riverbanks ending in a short but beach-blessed stretch of Atlantic shore. Many visitors never leave the resorts that cluster here, between Bakau and Kololi, but venture just a short distance inland and you’ll find forest reserves and mangroves visited by a fabulous variety of migratory birds. The adults-only Kalimba Beach Resort follows a contemporary African design, and has a series of long pools zigzagging through the complex.

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Handsome Ngala Lodge in Fajara is an adults-only boutique hotel on a quiet beachfront of coves and cliffs. Find tranquility in its two pools, masseuse, beach fishing and on-site restaurant.

With around 50 miles of coastline, exploring The Gambia’s Atlantic side doesn’t take too long. Book individual excursions or hire a vehicle with the Gambia Experience.

gambia.co.uk

21. Chicago, US

Why go in March? For shamrocks galore across a Great Lakes metropolis

For St Patrick’s Day celebrations, look not to Ireland but to this skyscraper-studded city on the shores of Lake Michigan. The downtown stretch of the Chicago River is given a lurid but allegedly harmless green dye job for the occasion (if not the 17th itself, then a nearby weekend), and parades are held. You can also expect Irish dancing, festive food and emerald-hued drinks. While the rest of March is not a particularly balmy time in the Windy City, Chicago does have plentiful indoor attractions, from world-class art collections to comedy clubs.

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The Guesthouse Hotel on Chicago’s north side drips with local artists and designers, its own extensive library and roof deck. Suites have full-size kitchens, living areas and private balconies, and the hotel is in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the US.

Get to know Chicago like a local with Trailfinders’ five-day City Break tour, featuring the Skydeck, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, the Magnificent Mile and the Shedd Aquarium.

trailfinders.com

• Best hotels in Chicago

21. Taipei, Taiwan

Why go in March? For exploring jungles — both urban and natural

Taiwan’s southern half stretches into the tropics, and both temperatures and rainfall increase between January and August. Catch the island at its climatic mid-point in March and April to best appreciate both its cities and forested mountains. In Taipei it certainly makes for a less sweaty hike up Elephant Mountain to admire the sunset over the capital’s skyline, and the same goes for trails to hilltop temples straight out of a Chinese landscape painting in the gorges of Taroko National Park. Temperatures should still be in the teens if you stay out late among the night market food stalls. The Amba Taipei Songshan enjoys sightlines to capital landmarks and proximity to Raohe Night Market.

Make it happen

Designed by architect Ray Chen, Hotel Proverbs Taipei combines modernity and tradition, as homely wood decor meets copper and leather accents. Set in the East District shopping area, there’s an excellent rooftop pool with views across the city.

Experience Taipei as part of a wider Taiwan tour; Bamboo Travel covers the city’s biggest attractions in 15 days, including the huge Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, soaring Taipei 101, the Martyrs’ Shrine, National Palace Museum and the Shilin Night Market for dinner.

bambootravel.co.uk

22. Munich, Germany

Why go in March? For the city’s other beer festival

Everyone’s heard of Oktoberfest but for a flavour of Munich’s other big beer festival, you have to visit in March. Starkbierzeit, or strong beer season, celebrates the tapping of the first Starkbier kegs. These high-alcohol beers were first brewed during the 17th century by monks who drank them during Lent. Today, they’re a great excuse to enjoy around three weeks of festivities at a particularly gloomy time of the year. And should you feel the need for something a little less boisterous, Munich’s churches are particularly dazzling too.

Make it happen

Sleek, cool and decorated in a mix of night and day tones, Beyond by Geisel is an adults-only luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Suites have panoramic views, while the open living room and common kitchen allow you to feel at home.

You don’t need a guide to enjoy Starkbierzeit, but Bavarian Day Tours do multiple tours around the city, including walking tours, half-day city tours and and many more.

bavariandaytours.com

• Best hotels in Munich

22. Cape Town, South Africa

Why go in March? For spectacular hikes

March in Cape Town means warm, sunny days with little chance of rain. Compared to the peak summer months, temperatures will have dropped too, marking the start of the hiking season. Table Mountain is the natural pick. There are some 350 trails suitable for different abilities, with viewpoints taking in every vantage point from breathtaking gorges to the mesmerising coastline. And for a post-hike celebration? Hit the beaches for refreshing waves or enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene. As for somewhere to stay, it’s hard to beat Radisson RED V&A Waterfront for price and location, just a short walk from Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.

Make it happen

Welgelegen House in the heart of Cape Town is a wonderful boutique B&B that combines home comforts with elegant styling. Only a minute from trendy Kloof Street, Welgelegen has a cosy lounge, plunge pool and masseuse — and the best rooms come with views over Table Mountain.

Dive into Cape Town with Intrepid, on a five-day tour hat includes the city’s top sites, vibrant neighbourhoods, Table Mountain, Boulders Beach penguins, a scenic drive and wine tasting.

• Best things to do in Cape Town
• Best hotels in Cape Town

Additional reporting by Julie Alpine, Qin Xie and Richard Mellor

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