As the spring blossoms, you’ll see that there are many things to do in Madrid in March – it’s an excellent month to visit the city!
Insider tip: I love the Madrid Pass – it gets you into the top monuments, it saves you money, plus it includes a couple of extra perks.
Why waiting to get to Madrid? Get your Madrid Pass online right now.
March offers an ideal mix of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore Madrid. With mild temperatures during the day, cool mornings and evenings, and the occasional rainy day, it’s perfect for sightseeing as long as you pack smartly.
This shoulder season brings lower hotel and airfare rates, so you’ll save money while enjoying quieter landmarks, parks, and museums. Shorter lines mean more time soaking in Madrid’s charm and less waiting around.
Rainy day? No problem! Madrid’s world-class museums provide plenty of indoor activities. Booking tickets in advance helps you make the most of your time.
Traveling in March also lets you blend in with locals, reducing overtourism while experiencing the city authentically.
If you want to enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly trip, here are some ideas of things to do in Madrid in March. You’ll take advantage all March’s perks!
Book a guided visit of the Royal Palace
Alright, let me tell you about this Royal Palace tour in Madrid – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Picture yourself strolling through Madrid’s historic streets, soaking in all the stories this city has to tell. Then, you reach the Royal Palace, and wow – it’s a total showstopper. Even though the royal family doesn’t live there anymore, it’s still the largest occupied palace in Europe. Crazy, right?
The best part? No wasting time in those long lines; you get to enter right away.
Inside, it’s like stepping into another world. The rooms are over-the-top gorgeous, the artwork is jaw-dropping, and the royal family stories? They’re the kind of thing you’ll be repeating to everyone back home. After you’ve explored every nook and cranny, you can chill out in the Sabatini Gardens. They’re stunning, and you’ll get some amazing photo ops while you relax.
Oh, and the guide? She’s not just a history buff – she makes the whole thing fun, like chatting with a friend who’s also a walking encyclopedia. If you’re into history or just want a deeper connection to the city, this tour is an absolute must.
Join a fun and delicious tapas class
Want to join a super fun cooking class in Madrid? A professional chef will show you how to make Spain’s best tapas, which will definitely make you hungry.
You’ll start with a glass of cava, then head to your cooking station, working in pairs to whip up several awesome tapas from different parts of Spain. It’s super hands-on, so feel free to ask the chef anything – they’re here to make sure you all have a great time and keep your wine glasses topped up!
After you’re done cooking, you’ll move to a private dining room to eat what you’ve made along with a main course and dessert prepared by the chefs. It turns into a 6-course feast paired with 5 different Spanish wines that just keep coming.
Sounds like a blast, right? Then, why don’t you book you class straight away?
Explore Madrid from a hop-on hop-off bus
Exploring Madrid is a breeze with a hop-on hop-off bus tour – it’s such an easy and fun way to see the city! No need to stress about navigating the metro or walking for ages. You just ride along, enjoy the views, and hop off whenever you’re ready to check out amazing spots like the Royal Palace or the Prado Museum.
The best part? It’s super flexible. If you’re loving a particular place, you can hang out there as long as you want. When you’re ready to move on, just hop back on the next bus and keep exploring. And if you’re visiting during those rainy spring days, the heated buses are like a warm hug on wheels.
It’s also perfect if you’ve got kids in tow – they’ll stay entertained while you take in all the sights. Whether you’re looking for comfort, convenience, or an affordable way to soak up Madrid’s vibe, this tour has you covered!
Drink with a view at a rooftop bar
If you’re in the mood for a drink with a killer view of Madrid, you’ve got to check out one of the city’s rooftop bars. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
While you’re out exploring, make some time to hit up these chic rooftops. They’re known for their stunning views, great music, creative drinks, and lively vibe. A few spots to keep on your radar are the 360º Rooftop Bar at Hotel Riu Plaza España, Picos Pardos Sky Lounge at BLESS Hotel Madrid, and Oroya at the Madrid EDITION.
The city’s nightlife scene has seriously leveled up lately, so you can find an awesome rooftop bar pretty much wherever you are.
Quick tip: Happy hour usually kicks off around 17:00 or 18:00, so get there early if you want to grab a table. They fill up fast!
Watch the first bullfights of the season
With the 2025 season kicking off in March, now’s your chance to witness top matadores and bulls in action once again. The return of bullfighting season brings an air of excitement to Madrid, and Plaza de las Ventas is the heart of it all.
Early-season bullfights are especially thrilling, drawing aficionados eager to dive back into this intense and storied tradition. From the dramatic opening ceremonies to the skillful artistry in the ring, each event is steeped in history and emotion.
If you’re planning to attend, check the schedule and book your tickets early – the buzz is real, and seats fill up fast! The atmosphere is electric, blending adrenaline and heritage, and offers an unforgettable glimpse into Spain’s rich cultural history.
Spend some time at the Prado Museum
If you’re planning to explore Madrid this March, you’ve got to put the Prado Museum on your list – it’s amazing! Sure, the weather might be a bit chilly, but once you step inside, the art will totally blow you away.
The museum is packed with incredible Spanish masterpieces, plus some brilliant works by Italian and Flemish artists. Even if you’re not a hardcore art lover, you’ll still find plenty to admire.
To really enjoy your visit, I’d recommend joining a small group tour with skip-the-line tickets. It saves so much hassle, and you’ll have an English-speaking guide who shares all these fascinating stories that make the art feel even more special.
Enjoy a passionate flamenco show
You have to check out the flamenco show at Torres Bermejas this March – it’s something you won’t want to miss. This iconic spot has been wowing flamenco fans since 1949, and it’s nothing like those run-of-the-mill shows you might’ve seen around the Internet.
The place is super cozy, with just 150 seats, so you’re up close and personal with the performers. The energy is unreal, from the guitarists’ insane skills to the dancers’ electrifying moves and singers’ emotional intensity. And get this – it’s the only flamenco venue that can boast a Michelin star!
It’s not just a show either; you’re in for an amazing meal created by a top-notch chef. The whole evening is a perfect mix of Spain’s fiery spirit, breathtaking artistry, and next-level dining. If you’re in Madrid, this is the kind of experience you’ll be talking about for years. You shouldn’t skip it!
Explore a 19th-century mansion
Step inside this stunning 19th-century mansion, once home to Enrique de Aguilera y Gamboa, the 17th Marquis of Cerralbo… Nowadays it’s a museum called Museo Cerralbo, and it’s packed with his incredible art and artifact collection.
It feels like a time capsule, with the rooms and decor almost untouched since the Marquis’s days. The house is a maze of spaces, from cozy parlors and a grand library to a billiard room, a ballroom, and a formal office where VIPs were welcomed.
Every corner is brimming with treasures. If you’re an art lover, you can marvel at “The Ecstasy of Saint Francis of Assisi” by El Greco, along with works by Spanish legends like Zurbarán and Alonso Cano. And if you happen to be a history buff you’ll love the amazing collection of European and Japanese arms and armor. Oh, and you can’t miss the dazzling Murano glass chandelier from Venice – it’s very impressive!
Discover Madrid on a guided bike tour
If you’re looking for a fun way to see Madrid, a guided bike tour is such a great option – seriously, it’s perfect no matter how much biking you’ve done before.
You’ll cruise through the city’s lively streets, stopping by iconic spots like Retiro Park, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace. If you’re worried about keeping up, go for the e-bike – it makes the whole ride so much easier and more enjoyable, especially if biking isn’t really your thing.
With a friendly, knowledgeable guide who speaks English, you’ll get to hear all kinds of cool stories about Madrid’s history and incredible architecture. It’s such a great way to get to know the city – you’ll cover a lot of ground without it feeling like hard work, thanks to how comfy and easy these bikes are to use.
Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking up the views, this tour is an awesome way to experience Madrid’s history up close while having a great time.
Admire the masterpieces of the Reina Sofía Museum
If modern art is your thing, you’ll love this 90-minute guided tour at Madrid’s famous Reina Sofía Museum.
No waiting in lines – your special ticket gets you straight in to enjoy some incredible 20th-century Spanish art, including Picasso’s masterpiece, “Guernica”. With an expert guide by your side, you’ll dive into the world of modern art, exploring everything from Modernism to Cubism.
The tour keeps things personal and focused on what interests you most. Just meet up with your English-speaking guide at the museum entrance, and you’re all set for a fascinating deep dive into Spanish art, culture, and history. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your visit!
Live the thrill of a football game
Do you love football? In this case, Madrid is your dream city as it hosts two of Spain’s most iconic teams: Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid.
The rivalry between these two is intense, which makes every match feel electric. Whether you’re sitting in the historic Estadio Santiago Bernabéu or the sleek Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the energy is something you’ll never forget.
To make the most of it, show up early, rock your team’s colors, and join in with the fans’ chants and songs. If you’re planning to visit, March is an amazing time to soak up the excitement of Madrid’s football vibe.
Discover Vallehermoso local market
This historic market shows how tradition can blend with modern vibes, thanks to a creative revamp in 2015. After years of decline, the market got a fresh start when some savvy merchants turned it into a hub for dining and tasting.
At Mercado de Vallehermoso, you’ll come across a little bit of everything – classic spots like bakeries, butcher shops, and fishmongers, right alongside trendy restaurants, wine bars, craft beer joints, and even Spain’s only permanent farmer’s market.
If you check out the Mercado de Productores (the farmers market), you’ll notice all the producers are local – either from Madrid itself or within 120 km. Plus, a lot of what they offer is handmade, which adds a nice personal touch.
Craving something different? You can dig into Spanish food or branch out with Mexican, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and more.
Markets like Vallehermoso really capture Madrid’s vibe. They’re this amazing blend of old and new, local and global, where people of all ages come together.
Go to Ávila and Segovia on a day trip from Madrid
If you’re in Madrid and want to dive into Spain’s rich history without the fuss of overnight stays, this day trip is perfect. You’ll visit Ávila and Segovia, two incredible cities packed with history, culture, and jaw-dropping architecture – and both are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
In Ávila, you can stroll along the legendary medieval walls, check out the impressive Romanesque Cathedral, and see the Básilica de San Vicente. Then, in Segovia, you’ll be wowed by the iconic Roman Aqueduct, explore the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, and wander through the stunning Alcázar – it’s like stepping into a fairytale.
Plus, the trip itself is super comfortable. There’s Wi-Fi on the bus, a light snack to keep you going, and you’ll get to soak in the beautiful scenery of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains along the way. It’s an easy, stress-free way to experience Spain’s history up close.
Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
If you’re planning to be in Madrid this March, you’ve got to check out the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. It’s right by the Prado Museum on Paseo del Prado, super easy to find.
This place is part of Madrid’s famous “Golden Triangle of Art”, and it’s packed with incredible pieces spanning from the Gothic period all the way to the 20th century. You’ll find works from legends like Van Dyke, Van Gogh, Caravaggio, and Picasso – talk about variety!
What’s really cool is that a lot of the museum’s charm comes from the influence of Carmen Cervera, an art dealer and collector who played a big role in shaping its collection. Whether you’re a hardcore art lover or just curious, this spot is perfect for diving into European art history all in one go.
Attend a Real Madrid’s basketball game
If you want to mix things up, why not check out a Real Madrid basket game?
Their basketball team is just as legendary as the soccer squad – loaded with Spanish and Euroleague championships. With games happening at the Movistar Arena, you’ll get to enjoy some incredible basketball in a vibrant, high-energy setting.
Whether you’re really into sports or just up for an unforgettable night out, this is such a fun way to spend your time in Madrid. Definitely worth experiencing!
Madrid weather in March
Overall, March in Madrid is characterized by cool afternoons and cold nights, with relatively dry weather and a gradual warming trend throughout the month.
You’ll experience a minor shift in weather patterns, transitioning from a cooler winter climate to a more pleasant spring-like climate.
Temperatures in March in Madrid
The average temperature is around 9ºC (48ºF) in March, which can reach highs of 15°C (58°F) on a warm day. For a warmer climate, visit during the final week of the month when temperatures tend to be more pleasant as spring approaches. At night, the weather can be very cold with an average low of just 2°C (36°F).
- March in Madrid is moderately chilly and breezy. Temperatures range from daytime highs of 15°C (58°F) to nighttime lows of 2°C (36°F).
- There’s a 23% chance of rain on an average day, with light rain totaling about 9 mm (0.36 in).
- Expect around 12 hours of daylight. About 51% of the day is likely to be sunny or partly cloudy.
- The average humidity is 68%, making it feel humid but cool. Winds average 22.3 kph (13.9 mph), adding to the breezy feel.
- You can check the forecast for your trip on your mobile weather app or on my favorite website/app – Windy.
What to wear in March in Madrid?
Unlike many places in Europe and North America, the way you feel the temperature in Madrid in winter is highly dependent on the degree of cloudiness and sun. It means that on a cloudy day even if the temperature is the same as on a sunny day, it may feel much, much colder.
The challenge with Madrid is that interiors are often overheated so you need to peel back the layers.
- A good idea is a waterproof warm jacket with a hood,
- A heavy sweater (cashmere is always a good idea) to wear under your jacket, and a few lighter sweaters for when the heavy one is too much. A turtleneck is perfect for layering. Opt for neutral tones that pair well with both skirts and trousers.
- You’ll want to pack a few travel pants for your trip whether they’re quick drying travel pants or jeans.
- While I would keep the short summer dresses at home, I would recommend bringing one or two maxi dresses in case the weather is sunny and warm. Tights (specifically black) are on trend and a good way to keep warm under a skirt, shorts, or black dress.
- Madrid is best explored on foot, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. You never want to get a blister or have sore feet on vacation. I highly recommend flats instead of heels.
- As the weather starts to warm up, you may want to pack some lightweight accessories. This includes a sunhat, sunglasses, a lightweight scarf, and an umbrella (unexpected showers are not as rare as you can imagine!)
Accommodation in Madrid in March
Just a heads up if you’re hunting for a hotel in Madrid during March – sometimes Easter lands in March instead of April. When it does, hotel prices go way up.
But don’t worry, for the rest of March, you can still snag some good deals on rooms. So, let’s start looking!
- Here you can search for hotels in Madrid for all budgets.
- Where do I start? Have a look at my selection of recommended hotels in Madrid.
Is March a good time to visit Madrid?
March is an excellent time to visit Madrid, as the city begins to embrace spring with milder temperatures.
However, you should be prepared for variable weather. While it can be comfortably cool in the morning and evening, the sun can warm you to the core during the day. And you could experience a few rainy days too, so pack accordingly.
March is part of the shoulder season, offering good conditions for sightseeing without the heavy tourist crowds typical of spring (April through June). This period is ideal for exploring Madrid’s historic landmarks, parks, and museums comfortably.
For me, traveling in the shoulder season is always worth the risk as more often than not, it’s more enjoyable and means that you can save more money for future trips!
There are loads of benefits to plan a trip to Madrid in March:
- Staying in Madrid during the month of March usually means discounted rates on hotels and airfares as there is less demand, too! It’s also the best month if you’re wanting to not look like a tourist and avoid contributing to overtourism.
- Spend less time being bored to death lining up for hours and more time enjoying the sights that make Madrid, Madrid!
- If the day turns miserable there are plenty of things to see and do out of the cooler weather. Take advantage of this by visiting the many museums (you can buy tickets in advance to them!) that make Madrid so inspiring.
Wondering when’s the best time to visit Madrid? I’ve got you covered. Check out my easy month-by-month guide to figure out what each season has to offer. Let’s get your trip to this awesome city sorted!
1. Kick off the year with some cool January activities in Madrid
2. Find cool stuff to do in Madrid in February
3. Things to do in Madrid in March
4. April is one of the best months for visiting Madrid
5. Catch the spring vibes in Madrid this May
6. Don’t miss the best of Madrid in June
7. Top tips for enjoying Madrid in July
8. What to do in Madrid in August
9. Have a great September in Madrid
10. Going to Madrid in October? Here’s what to do
11. Dive into Madrid’s cool activities in November
12. Make your December trip to Madrid unforgettable
