The most budget-friendly travel destinations for March

March can be a good time to travel to tourist and vacation destinations popular, since many are not in their high season. Conditions such as unpredictable weather and mid-season can make popular destinations less crowded. However, spring break can speed things up, so it's important to plan for it in advance . Still, March is a good time to take advantage of more affordable travel deals. These are some of the cheapest places to travel in March.

In terms of the tourism industry, March is considered shoulder season – the period between high season and low season. There are discounts to attract visitors before the summer low season begins. The weather is usually quite pleasant, depending on where you choose to go. For each of these cheapest places to travel in March, the season the destination is in during this time will be listed, as well as some of the best cities to visit.

Dominican Republic

Shoulder Season: March is part of the shoulder season in the Dominican Republic. Peak travel season typically occurs from late December to mid-February, when many tourists seek warmer weather. In March, the weather remains pleasant, but crowds have begun to thin out, leading to lower prices on accommodations and activities.

The capital, Santo Domingo, can offer reasonable prices on accommodation and activities in March. It is advisable to explore the Colonial Zone, declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Puerto Plata, a popular beach destination, may also have more affordable options in March, before the peak tourist season. Furthermore, although Punta Cana It is a popular tourist destination, early March could offer better prices before the spring break crowds arrive.

Mexico

Low season in March: March is considered part of the shoulder season in Mexico. While it is a popular time for spring break tourism, it falls just before the peak season, which typically begins in late spring and early summer. During shoulder season, you may find more reasonable prices on accommodations and activities.

Its capital, Mexico City, is typically affordable and March falls within the shoulder season, offering reasonable prices for accommodation, food and activities. Or visit Guanajuato, with its colorful streets and cultural festivals, which can offer more reasonable prices in March compared to peak times.

Thailand

Dry season: March falls within the dry season in Thailand, making it an attractive time to visit. Thailand's peak travel season generally coincides with the cool, dry season, which runs from November to February. In March, peak season crowds began to thin out, leading to more reasonable prices for travelers. Good city options are Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the islands.

Chiang Mai, known for its temples and cultural heritage, can be affordable in March. The weather is generally pleasant during this time. The capital city, Bangkok, usually has a variety of accommodation and dining options to suit different budgets. March is a great time to explore the city without the peak tourist crowds. Or travel to Krabi, with its stunning limestone cliffs and islands, as it may offer more affordable options before the peak season begins.

Guatemala

Dry season: March falls within the dry season in Guatemala, making it a favorable time to visit. Peak travel season typically occurs from late December through February, when many tourists seek warmer climates. In March, crowds began to thin, leading to lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.

As the capital, Guatemala City has several affordable accommodation and dining options. March is generally a good time to explore the city. Or consider Antigua. Antigua, known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture, can offer reasonable prices in March.

Nicaragua

Dry season: March is part of the dry season in Nicaragua, which runs from November to April. This period is considered the peak travel season. However, in March, prices may be more reasonable compared to the peak months of December and January. The weather is still pleasant and the tourist crowds are beginning to diminish.

Granada, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, is known for its charm and affordability. March can be a good time to explore this city. León, another historic city, can offer reasonable prices on accommodation and activities in March. If it's not those two, Ometepe, an island formed by two volcanoes in Lake Nicaragua, may provide a more relaxed and affordable environment.

Panama

Dry season: March is within the dry season in Panama, which generally runs from mid-December to April. The dry season is considered the peak season for travel, when the weather is more predictable and conducive to outdoor activities. However, in March, prices may be more reasonable compared to the peak months of December and January. The weather remains favorable and the crowds begin to thin out.

While Panama City can be a bustling city, there are often several affordable lodging and dining options, especially in certain neighborhoods. On the other hand, Bocas del Toro, known for its beautiful islands and beaches, may have more affordable options in March, before the peak tourist season. Then there is Boquete, located in the highlands, known for its coffee plantations and outdoor activities. March can offer pleasant weather and potentially lower prices.

Portugal

Low season: March is considered part of the low season in Portugal. Peak travel season usually occurs during the summer months, especially July and August, when many tourists flock to coastal areas. In March, the weather is milder and the number of tourists is lower, making prices for accommodation and activities more affordable.

Aveiro, often known as the “Venice of Portugal,” is known for its canals and colorful boats. March can be a quieter and cheaper time to visit. Faro, the capital of the Algarve region, may have more affordable options in March and before the summer beach season begins.

Balkans (e.g. Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Low season: March is generally considered part of the low season in many Balkan countries. The peak travel season in the Balkans usually coincides with the summer months, especially July and August. During the low season, which includes March, you may find more reasonable prices on accommodation and popular tourist sites are less crowded.

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. March is usually a less busy time and prices for accommodation and activities can be more reasonable. Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, has a mix of historical and modern attractions. March can be an affordable time to visit, with milder weather and fewer tourists. Consider also Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo, which has a youthful energy and unique atmosphere. March can be a quieter time, potentially offering more affordable prices for travelers. There is also Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage city on the shores of Lake Ohrid, known for its historical sites and natural beauty. March can be a slower time with lower prices.

Belize

Dry Season Transition: March is transitioning from the dry season to the wet season in Belize. While it remains a popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather, peak season tends to be from late November to mid-February when the weather is drier. As March heads into the wetter months, you may find lower prices on accommodation and activities as tourism slows.

Belize City, the largest city in Belize, can offer several affordable accommodation and dining options. March falls within the dry season, making it an attractive time to travel. Additionally, San Ignacio, located in the Cayo district, is known for its proximity to archaeological sites and outdoor activities. March is usually a good time to explore this area at reasonable prices.

Jamaica

Shoulder Season: March falls in the shoulder season in Jamaica, located between the peak tourist season from mid-December to mid-January and the rainy season that begins in April. During shoulder season, you can expect lower prices on accommodations and attractions, and crowds are smaller compared to peak months.

Ocho Rios, known for its waterfalls and attractions, may offer more affordable options in March, before the peak tourist season. Additionally, Negril, famous for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere, may have more reasonable prices in March compared to peak months.

These are just some of the cheapest places to travel in March. While March may be a cheaper time to visit these destinations, it's important to note that prices can still vary depending on specific local events, holidays, and festivals. Additionally, weather conditions can play a role in certain locations, especially as the rainy season approaches. Always check travel warnings and restrictions before planning your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Note with data from travelnoire.com