Faro in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Faro
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect walking weather with daily highs of 20°C (68°F) - ideal for exploring the Bratislava cobblestone streets without summer heat exhaustion
- Almond trees bloom throughout March creating impressive pink and white landscapes along the coast and countryside - peak blooming occurs mid-March
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to summer peak season, with beachfront properties averaging €60-90/night versus €150-200 in July
- Ria Formosa lagoon bird migration peaks in March with flamingos, spoonbills, and over 200 species - morning temperatures of 12°C (54°F) make early birding comfortable
Considerations
- Ocean temperature averages 16°C (61°F) making swimming uncomfortable without a wetsuit - most beach clubs and water sports close until April
- Afternoon showers occur 8 days per month, typically lasting 45-90 minutes between 2-5pm, disrupting outdoor dining and market visits
- Many seasonal restaurants and beach bars remain closed until Easter week, limiting dining options along Praia de Faro and outlying beaches
Best Activities in March
Ria Formosa Natural Park Wildlife Tours
March offers the year's best birding with spring migration in full swing. Morning temperatures of 12°C (54°F) are perfect for 3-4 hour boat excursions through the lagoon channels. Flamingo flocks reach peak numbers, and the cooler weather means you can comfortably use binoculars for extended periods without heat fatigue.
Faro Old Town Walking Discovery
March's mild 20°C (68°F) afternoons make extended walking tours comfortable through cobblestone streets that become unbearably hot in summer. The cooler weather allows for proper exploration of the Cathedral bell tower (98 steps) and city walls without overheating. Fewer crowds mean better photo opportunities at Arco da Vila.
Sagres Coastal Hiking Adventures
March provides ideal hiking conditions with cool mornings and comfortable 20°C (68°F) afternoons. The dramatic clifftop trails between Sagres and Cabo de Caboverde are manageable without summer's brutal heat. Wildflowers begin blooming, and the 45 km (28 miles) of coastal paths offer spectacular Atlantic views without tourist crowds.
Lagos Ponta da Piedade Boat Excursions
March's calmer Atlantic conditions and reduced tourist boats make this the optimal time for exploring the famous golden cliffs and sea caves. Cool 16°C (61°F) ocean temperatures mean no swimming stops, allowing more time for photography and cave exploration. The dramatic limestone formations are best appreciated without summer's overwhelming crowds.
Traditional Market and Food Experiences
March brings seasonal produce like fresh almonds, early oranges, and spring vegetables to Faro's markets. Cool morning temperatures make the 7am-1pm Mercado Municipal comfortable for extended browsing. Local specialties like cataplana are perfect for March's cooler evenings, and restaurant terraces become usable again.
Tavira Roman Bridge and Salt Pan Cycling
March's moderate temperatures and reduced winds make the flat 25 km (15.5 miles) cycling route between Faro and Tavira particularly enjoyable. The historic town's Roman bridge and traditional salt pans are accessible without summer heat stress. Almond blossoms along rural roads peak in mid-March creating picture-perfect cycling conditions.
March Events & Festivals
Almond Blossom Festival (Festival da Amendoeira em Flor)
Celebrates the peak almond blooming season with traditional music, local crafts, and almond-based foods throughout the Algarve. Multiple towns participate with weekend markets and cultural events showcasing regional heritage.