Weather Lowdown
March in Andalucia is typically characterised by modest warmth. Daytime temperatures reach a maximum of 20°C (68°F), and the temperature typically falls to 9°C (48°F) overnight, although near the Mediterranean coast the nights are usually milder than that.
There are typically 6 hours per day of bright sunshine, and sunshine is most reliable near the Mediterranean coast. The higher parts of the mountainous Sierra Nevada area often continues to experience snow during March, but it is very rarely near sea level. Sea temperatures in March are still geared toward winter--averages are around 16°C (60°F).
In March, Andalucia skies tend to have about 40% cloud cover, with a 29% chance of rain, occurring as moderate rains. On average, there are 9 days with rain, with an average total of about 90mm per month, though there is considerable variation within the region--the mountainous areas and the west are often quite wet, whereas the Mediterranean coastline in the east of the region tends to be dry on most days.
Humidity typically ranges from comfortable (38%) to very humid (96%), and the air is most humid at the beginning of the month, drying out as the weeks pass by. Wind speeds vary from calm to moderate, coming from the west and occasionally from the south.
Overall, temperatures Andalucia increases slightly over March. Around the beginning of the month, averages are at 9°C (48°F), with highs of 16°C (60°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). By the end of March, averages are at 11C (51°F), highs at 19C (66°F) and lows at 5C (41°F).
Where to Stay
Hotel Patagonia Sur
Hotel Patagonia Sur is a 3-star hotel located in the old city centre just a few metres away from the cathedral and city hall. The rooms offer free wifi, continental breakfast, A/C, TV, telephone and safe. The train station is located about 500 metres from the hotel.
Pension Espana
Pension Espana is a budget alternative that offers single, double, triple, and family rooms. The pet-friendly hotel offers bike rentals, free wifi, and luggage storage to its guests. Rooms are equipped with TV, some with sinks, and balconies available on request. Note that all bathrooms are shared, so they are located outside the room.
Tryp Cadiz la Caleta
Tryp Cadiz la Caleta is another excellent option in Cadiz. Located on La Victoria Beach, the hotel is right near Paseo Maritimo, and the city's main shopping areas. Elegant, modern rooms are available for singles, couples or families; be sure to request a sea view. Onsite facilities private parking, international breakfast buffet and a lounge bar ideal for an afternoon coffee or evening cocktail.
Hit the Beach
Bolonia Beach
Andalucia's Bolonia beach is located near Tarifa. The beach attracts a healthy crowd of everything from hip kite-surfers to nudists. Roman ruins and seafood restaurants decorate the golden sands found here.
Eating & Drinking Out
Cafe Royalty
High quality Spanish dining, without being prohibitively expensive, is available at Cafe Royalty (Plaza Candelaria) in Cadiz.
Jacaranda
Jacaranda, Higuera de la Sierra is a lovely restaurant in a small village. They offer fine dining in a relaxed setting--from mushroom risotto to marinated sardines to foie-gras tapas.
Taberna Luque
Taberna Luque in Cordoba is a unique, family-run tavern with delicious dishes like salmorejo, gazpacho and fresh sangria.
Things to Do
El Entierro de la Sardinia
El Entierro de la Sardinia takes place over most towns and cities of Spain during March, celebrating the first day of Lent, starting with a procession and then finishing with eating and drinking and sometimes fireworks displays.
Cadiz City
Cadiz City is well worth paying a visit, and, established three thousand years ago by the Phoenicians, is considered to be the oldest city in Europe. Some walls still stand that date from the 18th century. As a coastal site, it contains beautiful beaches and spectacular views. The Cathedral is impressive and was built between 1720 and 1838, also housing the tomb of the Spanish composer Manuel de Falla. There are numerous museums and mansions including the Casa de las Cadenas, which is an impressive 16th century building.
Cadiz Carnaval
The Carnaval in Cadiz is the third biggest in the world. On some years it occurs in March, and if you go be sure to book accommodation well in advance. The city erupts into songs, dances, parades and costumes for two weeks. Take a look at the weather forecast to help decide how to spend you time in Andalucia.
