Where to go on vacation in March in Italy: cities and weekend itineraries

March is the time of year when the air becomes crisp and temperatures rise significantly, creating the perfect moment for a wonderful and refreshing long weekend.
Take off your heavy coat and put on a light jacket, grab a pair of sunglasses, and plan for layered clothing and comfortable shoes: from north to south, let's explore the endless opportunities that the Beautiful Country offers us, between countryside and historic centers, dream coasts and enchanting villages, art spots and UNESCO sites.
Here are the most popular destinations in Italy for a weekend in March!

The coasts of La Spezia encompass one of the most beloved stretches of sea in Italy, the Gulf of Poets, a glimpse of timeless beauty.
This is the second largest city in Liguria and houses natural and cultural treasures, perfect for visiting during the season when the air becomes warmer.

Points of interest range from imposing castles like the San Giorgio Castle, dating back to the 13th century, to city parks like the Public Gardens, home to a wide variety of flora, architecture, and Liberty-style sculptures.
Explore picturesque streets like Via del Prione, the hub of relaxation and shopping, with historic palaces and interesting museums like the Maritime Museum or the Formentini Museum. Finally, the waterfront of La Spezia is truly a work of art balanced between nature and city.
See also: La Spezia: what to see, where to eat, and what to do in the evening

The villages that make up the Cinque Terre are small, charming gems, ideal for visiting over a weekend.
The villages are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The most fun way to move between villages is by foot. You can reach the villages by sea or by the Cinque Terre Express trains that connect La Spezia to Levanto starting in March.
Don't miss the gastronomic aspect: join a food tour and taste specialties like farinata, pesto, bianchetti (small fish), and the rice cake from Monterosso.
See also: What to see in the Cinque Terre: attractions, the most beautiful villages, and itineraries

Useful info the Cinque Terre MS Card allows access to both trekking paths and trains that connect the villages without limitation on trips (costing about €23,00 for 2 days)

Where to stay La Spezia - Hotels and B&Bs from €85,00 per room - check offers

It is the capital of love par excellence, famous for being the setting of the story of Romeo and Juliet.

This romantic city, perfect for a weekend, offers a wide choice of charming alleys, museums, restaurants, and shopping streets. The majestic Arena of Verona is the center of the entertainment program that the city organizes starting from the beautiful season, and the historic center of Verona has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique urban structure and unique architecture.
Stroll through the magnificent Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra, walk along Via Mazzini, visit Juliet's house, and finally climb to the top of the Torre dei Lamberti for a privileged view over the roofs of Verona. Alternatively, search for Porta Borsari or Castello di Castelvecchio, which houses the Civic Museum, and cross the numerous bridges over the Adige River to fill your eyes and heart with fascinating and unforgettable memories.
See also: What to see in Verona

Verona and Peschiera del Garda are only 30 kilometers apart and represent a perfect solution for organizing a long weekend between urban landscapes and lakeside atmospheres.
Use Verona as a base and explore both during the day and its more dreamy evening version.
Enjoy an excursion to Peschiera del Garda, reachable in 14 minutes by train (about €15,00). Walk around on foot through the alleys and bastions of its Fortress, a architectural gem hidden behind a pentagonal wall dating back to the 1500s. Then stop by the Sanctuary of Madonna del Frassino before taking a look at the Historical Palace and the Military Museum. Those who are more active can enjoy a cycling trip along the shores of the Mincio.

Useful info if you go during the last weekend of March you can also make a stop at Gardaland, right on the shores of the lake.

Where to stay Verona - Hotels and B&Bs from €75,00 per room - check offers

Turin is a splendid and enigmatic city, full of architectural wonders and mysteries related to energies and spirituality, and boasts a truly captivating cultural offer. The symbolic building of the city is the Mole Antonelliana, standing at 167.5 meters high, which houses the famous National Cinema Museum. Among the city's famous museums is the Egyptian Museum, a true temple for anyone passionate about this intriguing civilization, while among the most awe-inspiring attractions of the ancient capital of Italy are its immense and splendid squares, like Piazza San Carlo, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, or Piazza Castello. Don't miss the Cathedral, home to the Shroud of Turin, and the Valentino Park, the green lung of the city.
See also: What to see in Turin

For a dive into the magnificent historic residences of the House of Savoy, start with the majestic Royal Palace, the most important Savoy residence in Piedmont and a UNESCO Heritage site, which for centuries was the heart of Italy's political and cultural life. Among the most spectacular is the Reggia di Venaria Reale, less than 13 km from Turin and also accessible by bus (lines 9+11). The Castello del Valentino is located near the Turin center: it was acquired by Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy and is surrounded by the vast park of the same name. The Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi is situated less than 15 km from the capital (by bus RV to Lingotto, then bus 41) and is a masterpiece by Juvarra. Adjacent to a natural park, it also houses the Castelvecchio di Stupinigi, once the residence of the Pallavicino marquises.

Where to stay: Turin - Hotels and B&Bs from €80,00 per room - check offers

It is a small municipality with just 702 inhabitants in the province of Cuneo, Piedmont. It is located in the heart of the Langhe area, a pride of Piedmont, with hills cultivated with vines, castles, and charming small towns creating its magical attraction.
The town's name is said to derive from the Celtic "bas reul", meaning "low place", referring to the geographical layout of this village, which is indeed situated in a lower area compared to neighboring towns. Its Castello Faletti overlooks the cultivated Nebbiolo hills from above, and dates back to the year 1000. Today, it houses the Regional Enoteca of Barolo, the place where the finest local wines are selected.

A captivating way to traverse these lands between Cuneo and Asti is to follow the Romantic Road, a path of 11 stages measuring 130 kilometers through the territories of Roero and the Langhe.
Among the villages not to miss are Alba, with its medieval atmosphere, Asti, known for its fine sparkling wines, and Barolo, famous for its castle that overlooks the hills. There are also Santo Stefano Belbo, with the birthplace of Cesare Pavese, Bergolo, the stone town, Neive, Dogliani, and Bossolasco. The medieval castles are a defining feature of the Langhe. Among the most beautiful are the Castle of Govone, the Castle of Grinzane Cavour, and those of Magliano Alfieri or Costigliole d'Asti. Don't miss those of Monesiglio, Pralormo or Monticello d'Alba.

Where to stay: Barolo - Hotels and B&Bs from €80,00 per room - check offers

Canazei is located in the autonomous province of Trento, immersed in the splendid context of Val di Fassa, one of the most beautiful Dolomite valleys.

It is one of the most beloved winter destinations in Trentino, renowned for its numerous sports facilities that allow for outdoor sports in both summer and winter months. In winter, it is a paradise for skiing, mountaineering, and winter sports lovers. During the warmer months, the Canazei area is favored by mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts. From Canazei, one can reach famous passes of the Dolomites, such as Pordoi or Sella, while the charming historic center of the village allows you to breathe in the best mountain air, including its aromas and tastiest flavors.

Val di Fassa and Val di Fiemme are two of the best gems of the Dolomites. They are less than 25 kilometers apart and form a winning combination for a weekend among Italy's most beautiful peaks. They can be reached by bus 101 in 37 minutes, costing around €3.30.
Val di Fassa is part of the Dolomiti Superski consortium, the largest in the world, and is currently the only Trentino valley where the Ladin language is commonly spoken.
In March, the days are warmer, but the snow is often still perfect. It is ideal to spend one night in each and enjoy a long weekend filled with mountain food, mulled wine, and slopes warmed by the first spring sun.

Where to stay: Canazei - Hotels and B&Bs from €100,00 per room - check offers

Como is a town overlooking the lake of the same name, proud of its beauty. Its charm is partly derived from the architectural structure of its elegant historic center, and partly from its lakeside atmosphere and relaxed and pleasant climate that makes it enjoyable to visit in any season. Spring is one of the best times to embark on a culinary walking tour, with the lake's waves shimmering in the first rays of sun, the city waking up from winter, and the first outdoor tables emerging among its squares and alleys. Como can be visited in a day, but to truly appreciate every corner and glimpse, a few more days are obviously needed to enjoy the surroundings.
See also: Como: what to see, where to eat, and what to do in the evening

To see as much as possible in a short time, opt to travel on the ferries (about €3.80 each way) which significantly shorten the distances between villages.
Start your visit by exploring the Palazzo del Broletto, the Voltiano Temple or Villa Olmo. Move towards Menaggio to admire its noble villas and reach Bellagio to closely observe Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni, as well as the Orrido di Nesso, an impressive waterfall cascading into a gorge between the rocks. Proceed to Ossuccio and consider taking a tour of Comacina Island, the only island on the lake. You might also include unique places in your itinerary like Varenna, on the Lecco side.

Where to stay: Como - Hotels and B&Bs from €80,00 per room - check offers

Considered one of the jewels of Tuscany, it is easy to be enchanted by the unique charm of the city, strolling in the center of its Piazza del Campo: on the large space with its unmistakable shell shape and warm tones, famous buildings like the Palazzo Comunale and the Torre del Mangia overlook, where the Palio di Siena, a world-famous event, is held every year.
The tour of the beauties of Siena must continue towards the lavish Piazza del Duomo, with the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta adorned with wonderful polychrome marbles. Don't miss the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo and the Baptistery of Siena, and the nearby complex of Santa Maria della Scala.
Siena is also the cradle of a remarkable culinary tradition and its beautiful hills produce great wine labels, renowned internationally.
See also: What to see in Siena

The Val d'Orcia stretches from the province of Siena in the north to Grosseto in the south and takes its name from the river Orcia that crosses it.
Start your Val d'Orcia Tour from San Quirico d'Orcia, an ancient Etruscan site, and then continue to Bagno Vignoni, a spa town where ancient buildings surround a Renaissance thermal pool. From Castiglione d'Orcia to the center of the valley, stop in Pienza to taste its famous pecorino. Aim for Montalcino, for a sip of Brunello, and pause at a cellar to taste the Rosso d'Orcia or a Nobile di Montepulciano, accompanied by salami from Cinta Senese. For a stop of pure relaxation, choose Chianciano Terme, to rejuvenate with its thermal waters.

Useful info To explore this area, you can take the nature train, which departs from Siena to Trequanda, passing through postcard landscapes (€32,00).

Where to stay Chianciano - Hotels and B&Bs from €77,00 per room - check offers

Assisi is a magical place, deeply connected to the story of Saint Francis, who spent his life here. A small medieval village still intact in its beauty, surrounded by a city wall characterized by the profiles of the splendid Rocca Maggiore and its grand Basilica of San Francesco, dedicated to the saint. Among the little streets where time slows down, Assisi has much to offer for a relaxing weekend within its borders. An afternoon at the Eremo delle Carceri, where Francis loved to retreat in prayer, is a moment of absolute peace, surrounded by oak and holm oak forests. A visit to the Porziuncola Museum will allow you to admire important paintings dating back to the early Franciscan period, while strolling through the streets of the town you can see both the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Torre del Popolo, which stands in Piazza del Comune with all its elegance. Connecting Piazza del Comune and the Basilica is the distinctive straight line of Via San Francesco. To isolate yourself from the world and breathe only silence, make sure to visit the woods of San Francesco, at the valley bottom, a place of both historical and sacred climate.
See also: Assisi: what to see, where to eat, and what to do in the evening

Start from Assisi, then head by train (in 8 min, €1.90) to Spello, one of the most beautiful walled cities in Italy. Observe its medieval, Roman, and Renaissance presences and the numerous access gates to the city, such as Porta Consolare and Porta Venere.
From Spello, take a 13-minute train ride (€1.90) to Trevi, a postcard-like village perched on a hill in the Umbrian Valley. Its distinctive feature is its original urban structure of concentric circles, its noble palaces, cobbled alleys, churches, and flower-filled balconies overlooking cozy little squares, like Piazza Mazzini, the heart of the village. Enjoy a plate of local salami or strangozzi with truffle and conclude your weekend exploring the local oil mills nearby.

Where to stay: Assisi - Hotels and B&Bs from €59,00 per room - check offers

Terni is the second city in Umbria, located in the heart of Valserra, at the confluence of the Serra and Nera rivers. The beautiful town balances its fascinating past with being propelled into the future: the schedule of events, festivals, and activities here is truly rich. In Terni's historic center, remnants of Roman Terni can still be seen, and the patron saint of lovers, Saint Valentine, is buried right here, at the basilica dedicated to the saint. Terni is an excellent starting point to explore its incredible surroundings, rich in nature, history, and opportunities.

The Marmore Falls are just about ten kilometers from Terni, reachable by train in 15 minutes (€2.35). Alternatively, choose a day tour from Assisi with stops also in Cascia and Norcia.
In spring, choose between a trekking excursion or rafting on the streams (prices start at about €50.00 per person).
Then visit the nearby villages such as Piediluco, on the shores of the lake of the same name (by Busitalia, €3.00), Narni (9 minutes by train, €1.90), and the towns of Arrone and Stroncone, among the most picturesque in the region.
If you have time, head to Orvieto (1h30, €6.00 by train) to discover its cathedral and its underground and mysterious side: the legendary Well of St. Patrick is located here.

Where to stay: Terni - Hotels and B&Bs from €64,00 per room - check offers

Molise is a land rich in invaluable cultural heritage, refined art, incredibly characteristic natural views, and a local cuisine that is simply delicious. Termoli is one of the main towns in the region, located in the province of Campobasso along the coast of Molise: it is a truly fortified city that dominates the area from the top of a promontory overlooking the Adriatic waves. Its picturesque Old Town is the most characteristic part of the city, where among other peculiarities, the famous Rejecelle, the narrowest alley in Italy, only 41 cm wide, can be found. Termoli is also renowned for its beautiful coastline and is the main port from which to reach the Tremiti Islands.
See also: Termoli: what to see, where to eat, and what to do in the evening

In one hour by train from Termoli (about €6.70) lies the Costa dei Trabocchi, a charming stretch of coastline characterized by the presence of typical trabocchi, an ancient fishing structure on stilts.
The coast extends from Francavilla al Mare to San Salvo, passing by villages such as Ortona, Fossacesia, San Vito Chietino, and Vasto. The beaches hide sandy coves in rocky bays, as well as magnificent castles, such as the Aragonese Castle. Small treasures like Rocca San Giovanni, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Punta Cavalluccio, or the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve can be found among these magical lands.

Where to stay: Termoli - Hotels and B&Bs from €55,00 per room - check offers

Ferrara is the classic city that suits a person well perfect to discover on foot in a mid-season day, with crisp air and warm sunshine. It owes its atmospheres to the Este Dukes who resided here between the 15th and 16th centuries. Start your weekend in the city at the Estense Castle, the 14th-century fortress that rises right in the historical center. Continue your visit with the Ferrara Cathedral and don't forget to pass by the Palazzo dei Diamanti, a true architectural masterpiece of the Renaissance period. Peek into the Municipal Square, then admire Piazza Trento e Trieste and visit the Jewish Ghetto of Ferrara before enjoying a slow stroll through Via delle Volte, a medieval urban area that leaves one breathless with beauty and authenticity.
See also: Ferrara: what to see, where to eat, and what to do in the evening

Ferrara is less than 45 minutes away by car from the Lidi di Comacchio, an area spread next to the Po Delta. Head towards the Adriatic for a nature excursion in these areas. The best way to savor relaxation and silence here is by bike among reeds and oases, between marshes, pine forests, and brackish ponds. The flat terrain makes this bike trek suitable for the whole family. Be sure to visit the town of Comacchio, also known as "the Little Venice" because it was built on thirteen different land strips at the mouth of the Po di Primaro. It is characterized by a maze of canals and charming little bridges, making it the perfect place for walks or to savor fresh fish in a traditional restaurant.

Where to stay: Ferrara - Hotels and B&Bs from €79,00 per room - check offers

Reach destinations with a low-cost flight: companies like Ryanair often offer cheap flights departing in the early morning hours (5:00/6:00) from major spots like Malpensa or Orio al Serio. Considering the scarcity of transport at night, consider reaching the departure airport with your car. You can leave your vehicle in one of the many secured parking areas available. Learn more here: parking at Orio al Serio.

Naples is a land of fascinating contradictions and rare beauty.
Among its architectural wonders stand out Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, the symbol of the city, and Piazza Plebiscito, home to splendid buildings like the Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. One cannot say they have seen Naples without exploring the Spaccanapoli, the heart of the city, where old palaces and art treasures alternate, providing a taste of the most authentic Naples. Do not miss the Museo Cappella Sansevero, which houses the Veiled Christ by Sanmartino, the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara, the National Museum of Capodimonte, or the Cathedral dedicated to San Gennaro, the protector of the city. For a touch of mystery, Naples has a truly fascinating underground rich in tunnels and secrets, which can be explored through guided tours in the Bourbon Gallery or the Napoli Sotterranea tour.

Naples and Caserta are less than 35 kilometers apart, and Pompeii is about 25. After visiting Naples, reach Caserta by train (40min, €3.40), for an immersion in regal atmospheres at the majestic Royal Palace of Caserta, an 18th-century royal residence. Don't forget to visit the viewpoint of San Leucio, the Cathedral of San Michele Arcangelo, and the village of Casertavecchia in the vicinity of the city.
From Caserta, take the train (1h30 min, €3.90) towards Pompeii to see with your own eyes its majestic archaeological sites: stroll between the amphitheater and the House of the Faun, and peek among the ruins of the so-called House of Sallust. Reserve some time for a hike on Mt. Vesuvius.

Where to stay: Naples - Hotels and B&Bs from €66,00 per room - check offers

The town with the smell of lemons rises perched on a hill at the entrance to the Sorrento Peninsula. Spring is the best time to enjoy it slowly and engage in some trekking in its surroundings. From its famous municipal villa, you can admire an unforgettable view of the entire Gulf of Sorrento, while the nearby cloister of San Francesco offers shelter and tranquility at any time of the year. After strolling through Piazza Tasso and Corso Italia, look for the original Vallone dei Mulini to get a chance to see up close the ruins of an urban settlement nestled in the vegetation. Don't forget to enter the Cathedral of Sorrento before relaxing by the sea in the natural setting of beautiful Punta Campanella, concluding with a dive at the Baths of Queen Giovanna.
See also: Sorrento: what to see, where to eat, and what to do in the evening

The Amalfi Coast stretches from Positano to Vietri sul Mare and faces south on the Gulf of Salerno. The Sorrento Peninsula is just a few kilometers north of the Coast: it's impossible not to think about visiting both together.
Start at the "Due Fratelli" of Positano, the rocky spires immersed in blue that symbolize the city. Enjoy Minori, Ravello, and Atrani before heading into the heart of Amalfi. Pass the fjord of Furore and the wonders of the Praiano coastline to finally reach beautiful Positano, a small paradise sprawled across the back of a hill. The Sorrento Peninsula is a few kilometers away, with gems like Sant'Agata sui due Golfi, Massa Lubrense, and the queen of the Gulf, Sorrento.

Where to stay: Sorrento - Hotels and B&Bs from €76,00 per room - check offers

Palermo can provide endless emotions within a few hours. An eclectic city loaded with history, cultural influences, and a past full of stories. To fall in love with it, just wander through its picturesque views leaving room for a slow discovery. The cathedral will stand out spontaneously, as will the church of Martorana and the magnificent Norman Palace. For a thrill between the macabre and the fascinating, visit the Capuchin Catacombs, the underground cemetery that conserves mummified remains of friars, wealthy local figures, and common people. After admiring the beauty of the center, stop for a street food break in the markets before strolling along the coast of Mondello, the beach for Palermitans.

Monreale is about 10 kilometers away and Bagheria is a little over twenty.
Travel by AMAT bus (line 389, €1.50) or on a guided tour to Monreale for the opportunity to visit its cathedral with golden mosaics, which is fully included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
From Palermo, take the train that in 10 minutes (€2.80) will take you to Bagheria: the City of Villas. Discover its fanciful villas, such as Villa Palagonia (known as the Villa of Monsters), the symbol of the city, Villa Cattolica, or Villa Valguarnera, and imprint the Sicilian landscapes in your heart forever.

Where to stay: Palermo - Hotels and B&Bs from €60,00 per room - check offers

The white city par excellence, Ostuni is characterized by the presence of houses painted white, whose plaster reflects the warm light of the South. A gem of the Salento peninsula, beautiful churches and lively squares can be found among the streets of the center, while not far away the Mediterranean shows off its most beautiful creations along the Apulian coasts. The Aragonese Walls and the Cathedral of Ostuni are must-see attractions. And one cannot leave the city without having breathed the atmosphere of its Piazza della Libertà: on it stand the San Francesco Palace, the church of San Francesco, the obelisk of Sant'Oronzo, and the church of the Holy Spirit. Numerous museums exist, including the civic museum and the diocesan museum, and it is unthinkable to leave this area without an excursion to the Coastal Dune Park, a fabulous natural area between the municipalities of Ostuni and Fasano.

The stretch of Apulia from Ostuni to Alberobello encounters delightful spots such as Cisternino and Locorotondo.
Cisternino is one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Apulia, overlooking the Itria Valley, with white houses and a landscape where olive trees, trulli, countryside, and a spectacular sea coexist (35 minutes by bus, €1.50).
Locorotondo, circular in shape, is known for its 'cummerse,' houses with sloping roofs. Visit it on foot, gliding through its numerous churches, such as the church of San Rocco, patron saint of Locorotondo, and its historic palaces (bus 390 in 35 minutes, €3.00).
If you have more time, reach Alberobello, the capital of trulli, by train (€4.30), whose architectural peculiarity has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where to stay: Ostuni - Hotels and B&Bs from €76,00 per room - check offers

Located in the heart of Val Di Noto, Ragusa is considered a true open-air museum. A refined expression of Sicilian Baroque, the city is today divided into two distinct areas: Ragusa Superiore, the modern side, and Ragusa Ibla, the ancient part, which follows the original medieval layout. The narrow, almost labyrinthine streets of Ragusa captivate anyone who decides to spend a few days visiting here. Admire Ragusa Ibla and the valley that opens around the city from the viewpoint at the church of Santa Lucia, and prepare for an exciting urban trekking among the vast staircases of Ragusa. Enjoy the magic of Baroque enveloping the churches and stately palaces of the city, and don't miss a tour along the Iblean coastline, one of the most appreciated coastal stretches in Sicily.
See also: What to see in Ragusa and surroundings

The genuineness of Ragusa recalls the captivating stories of Inspector Montalbano: start from Ragusa for a tour of the places of Inspector Montalbano, including Modica, Punta Secca, and Scicli.
There are eight late-Baroque towns in Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Besides Ragusa, they are Caltagirone, Militello in Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Palazzolo Acreide, Scicli, and Noto: don't miss the chance to visit them all and dissolve in their indescribable beauty. The best way to enjoy a full weekend is to rent a car.

Where to stay: Ragusa - Hotels and B&Bs from €60,00 per room - check offers