Weather in Corfu in March

While summer favourite Corfu might not be the first place that springs to mind for a March break, there are plenty of reasons to visit the island earlier in spring. Intrigued? Read on to find out everything you need to know about the weather in Corfu in March. In addition, we share inspirational Greece itinerary suggestions.

What’s the weather like in Corfu in March?

March sees Corfu start to warm up after the chillier winter months, with its mild temperatures being ideal for walking, hiking and exploring the island’s UNSECO attractions and traditional villages.

Just don’t come expecting an all-out beach break — the sea is still quite chilly at this time of year, and it will rain. 

Air and sea temperatures in Corfu in March

If you visit Corfu in March, expect the average daily maximum temperature to be around the 16°C mark, with average lows of 8°C at night. 

For comparison, April in Corfu is characterised by an average daily maximum of 21°C, with a typical daily minimum of 11°C. Come June, the average daily maximum temperature rises to 30°C, with the average daily minimum coming in at 19°C.

Note that through the month of March, the overall average rises from 11°C to 14°C.

As for the sea, the temperature averages 15°C in March, so don’t come expecting to bathe in blissfully warm waters! For context, April’s average sea temperature in Corfu is 17°C, while in June it rises to 23°C.

Average rainfall in Corfu in March

Thinking of visiting Corfu in March? Come prepared for some wet weather — the island experiences an average of 108mm of rainfall across the month.

In contrast, Corfu in April sees an average of 74mm of rainfall over 12 days, while July — Corfu’s driest month — brings an average of 9mm.

For wider context, read up on the weather in Greece in March, and when to go to Greece around the year.

Is March a good time to visit Corfu?

Given that Corfu is often seen as a classic summer destination, March might not be the most obvious month to visit. Indeed, swimming is pretty much off the table, and you will experience rain.

So, if it’s scorching heat you’re after, you’re better off heading to one of the best winter sun destinations around the world. 

If, on the other hand, you’re into culture, cuisine and secluded strolls on beautiful beaches, March is a pretty good time to visit Corfu.

Considering visiting one of the best Greek Islands? Browse our inspirational Greece itineraries to start planning your perfect trip.

What about the crowds and cost?

In good news if you’re not a fan of peak-season irritations — from navigating packed bars and resorts, to vying for space at top cultural attractions — March in Corfu is pretty crowd-free. 

Another advantage of visiting Corfu in March is the possibility of bagging out-of-season bargains when it comes to your flights and accommodation. 

Ready for your dream trip to Greece?

Before booking your perfect trip, browse our customisable Greece itineraries for inspiration. 

As with all Rough Guides’ trips, the following itinerary ideas can be customised to your preferences, with a local expert on hand to offer insider tips, and take the hassle out of planning.

• Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it. 
• Milos — an exclusive island idyll (9 days): for an alternate Greek Island experience, why not get to know the Aegean’s most exotic island while staying in a private luxury villa by the sea?
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.

Top tip: our Greek Dreams trip takes in Athens, Corfu, Santorini, and Crete in luxurious style.

Festivals and events in Corfu in March

Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera)

18^th March 2024 will see Corfu celebrate Clean Monday — Kathara Deftera. Marking the beginning of Lent, the day is devoted to kite-flying and feasting, with processions and dancing across the island.

Greek Independence Day 

With parades happening throughout the country, 25^th March is Greek Independence Day, which sees citizens take to the streets to commemorate the country’s independence from the Ottoman Empire.

While lots of places close on this day, including national museums, it’s a unique way to experience Greek culture. 

Top tip: be sure to taste traditional Greek Independence Day food like bakaliaros skordalia — fried salted cod steeped in garlic sauce and olive oil. 

Tips for travelling to Corfu in March

What to wear in Corfu in March

Bearing in the mind that the average daily high sits around 16°C in Corfu in March (with lows of 8°C at night), you won’t be wearing your full summer wardrobe just yet.

Instead, pack a warm jacket and light layers that’ll have you covered from warmer, sunnier days through to rain showers and chillier evenings. For the latter, you might also want a warmer pullover.

Oh, and given the chance of rain, you should pack a brolly, waterproof jacket and suitable footwear. It’s not yet sandals and flip-flop season. 

Check for seasonal closures

If you’ve previously visited Corfu during the summer and are hoping to return to your favourite high season haunts, be aware that many hotels, resorts, bars and restaurants close their doors during the quieter winter months. While March sees Corfu shift to spring mode, not everywhere will be open. 

You’ll also want to research flights and ferries in good time — there’ll be fewer running in March.

Consider renting a car 

Related to seasonal closures, while Corfu’s public transport system doesn’t shut-down during out-of-season months like March, you can expect bus services to be reduced.

As a result, if you’re planning to travel off the beaten track, hiring a car comes recommended.

Stay somewhere with a heated pool

If you want to swim, look into accommodation options that have heated pools. 

While this is something you might overlook — or can do without — in July and August when the sea is super-warm, March’s cool sea temperatures make pools more of a must-have.

Planning your March trip to Corfu 

To help you plan your March trip to Corfu, make sure you read The Mini Rough Guide to Corfu.

Packed with insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, shop and sleep, plus inspirational itinerary suggestions for unforgettable days out, this pocket-sized book will help you make the most of your trip.

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on planning, browse our customisable Greece itineraries. With a local expert on hand to book your trip and offer advice, they take the hassle out of holidays.