Milan in March is a wonderful time to experience the city as it begins to shake off the chill of winter, before the start of the busy tourist season in April.
With the arrival of spring, you can enjoy milder weather, longer days and a vibrant atmosphere that breathes life into the streets. Visiting Milan in March offers a chance to see beautiful parks in bloom, enjoy local events, and indulge in delicious seasonal specialties.
Don’t miss the chance to discover Milan’s iconic sights with fewer crowds, making your visit more enjoyable and relaxed. Also, in March there aren’t any big events like in February or April for example, so you should be able to get good deals on flights and accommodation.
March is also a month when it’s usually warm enough to start spending time outdoors – think alfresco lunches, aperitivi, walks and bike rides surrounded by the beauty of spring!
Weather in Milan During March
Milan in March offers a mix of cool temperatures and increasing sunshine, making it a great time to visit. You can expect relatively mild days, but be prepared for variable weather, especially in the first half of the month as late-winter cold snaps might still happen.
Average Temperatures
In March, the average temperature in Milan ranges from 7°C (45°F) during the nights to about 15°C (59°F) during the day. March is the month when winter turns into spring, so the earlier part of the month is usually colder, with less sunshine and temperatures into the low single digits (40-50°F), but as the month progresses the weather gets noticeably warmer.
In late March, daytime saving also ends, so you’ll get an extra hour of light in the evening – just perfect to enjoy an Aperol spritz as the sun sets behind you. To give you an idea, the sun sets around 6.30 PM in early March, and at 8 PM at the end of the month.
So, you may expect March to be a warmer month compared to January and February, but please remember it’s technically still winter, so you might get some cold snaps or even the (very remote) chance of snow. Let’s have a look at what to wear!
What to Wear
Layering is key when dressing for Milan in March. As we mentioned before, the weather can still be fairly unstable, with the likelihood of cold and rain, but in the latter part of the month the temperatures can rise considerably.
Depending on your style, we recommend packing in a way that prioritizes practicality. For example, opt for a lightweight trench coat or a jacket to keep warm, versatile tops like sweaters or long-sleeve shirts, and choose comfortable trousers or dark jeans.
Please leave heels at home – walking shoes or ankle boots are much better to explore Milan, as there are cobblestone streets in the centre. Don’t forget an umbrella or a compact raincoat, as March often brings light rain. If you are visiting in early March, make sure you also take a warm hat, scarf and gloves as evenings might be chilly.
Does it Rain in Milan in March?
Generally speaking, rainfall increases during March in Milan with the arrival of spring showers. You can expect an average of approximately 8 wet days throughout the month – however, it usually only rains for a few hours. Days of solid rain are very rare.
Snow is extremely rare in March, but not unheard of – late-winter cold spells might still occur in March, bringing increased likelihood of strong winds and snow. I know it sounds silly, but make sure you check the weather forecast before your trip, as March is an especially unpredictable month.
Top Events and Festivals
March is an exciting time to experience Milan. There are no public holidays and some interesting events, more “fringe” compared to big ticket events happening later in the year. You can enjoy cultural festivals, artistic displays, and unique community gatherings.
MuseoCity
March in Milan starts with MuseoCity, a cultural festival taking place at over 100 museums across the city during the first week of the month.
Museums offer extended opening times, special exhibitions and guided tours, and smaller museums open their doors with workshops and themed events. 2025 dates haven’t yet been announced, keep an eye on the MuseoCity website if you are planning to visit in early March!
Fà la Cosa Giusta
Fà la Cosa Giusta is a leading fair held at the Rho expo venue, focused on sustainable lifestyles and responsible consumerism. Taking place in March, this vibrant event attracts eco-conscious visitors eager to explore ethical brands and sustainable products. Dates for 2025 are March 14th-16th.
You’ll find workshops, discussions, and exhibitors showcasing everything from organic food to eco-friendly fashion. With numerous activities designed to engage all ages, it’s a great opportunity to learn about living sustainably while enjoying Milan’s lively atmosphere.
International Women’s Day Celebrations
Milan celebrates Festa della Donna (International Women’s Day) on March 8th, with events centered around gender equality and women’s rights. You’ll usually find marches, exhibitions, and discussions promoting women’s achievements and challenges.
It’s customary to gift women a branch of mimosa, a yellow wattle flower that blooms in this season. Torre Branca usually offers free entry to women, and some bars/restaurants offer special menus and discounted drinks.
Stramilano
Stramilano is an iconic annual running event that typically occurs in late March – the next one will take place on March 23rd, 2025. This event is perfect for both seasoned runners and casual participants, as there are several distances available – the 5K, dubbed “Stramilanina”, a 10K and a half marathon.
The route takes you through Milan’s historic districts, showcasing its stunning architecture. It’s not just a race; it’s a colorful celebration of health and fitness, often accompanied by live music and entertainment along the course. The half marathon is great for committed runners, whereas on the other two races you’ll find a mix of runners and walkers, and even people with strollers or skates.
FAI Spring Days
If you are into art and culture, don’t miss the FAI Spring Days, organized by the Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano (Italian National Trust) during the last weekend of March.
This initiative invites you to discover and visit historic sites and cultural landmarks across Italy, with lots of places to see in Milan as well. There are usually special guided tours of Villa Necchi Campiglio and Palazzina Appiani near Parco Sempione, as well as many other places around Varese and Lake Como. Please see the FAI website for details.
During this weekend, many normally closed or less accessible sites open their doors to the public, with guided tours available. In recent years, places that have opened during this weekend include the 1930s Piscina Cozzi and the Albergo Diurno Porta Venezia.
Things to Do in Milan in March
March marks the arrival of spring in Milan, bringing vibrant colors and lively activities. You can see the main sights, head outdoors to see flowers in bloom, try seasonal delicacies, hunt for treasures at vintage markets, or take scenic day trips to places like Bergamo and Lake Como.
See Flowers in Bloom
In March, the gardens of Milan burst into color as flowers begin to bloom. For example, you can visit Parco Sempione, located next to the Castello Sforzesco, where you can enjoy a picnic after touring the museums located within the castle.
Another good place for d the Orto Botanico di Brera, located near the Pinacoteca. This garden features unique plants and it is perfect for a quiet break or to take some pictures.
Flowers continue blooming all throughout April and May – March is a great month to see magnolias, and the most beautiful ones can be seen in Piazza Tommaseo, not far from Cadorna station.
Visit the Duomo
March is still a month with low tourist numbers so it’s a good time to see the Duomo without having to fight the crowds. We recommend opting for a guided tour as there is really a lot to uncover – just think that it took 600 years to build this magnificent cathedral!
Make sure you also get tickets in advance to climb to the top of the Duomo. The clear skies and bright days you often find in March are just perfect for views stretching all the way to the Alps!
Don’t Miss the Last Supper
Together with the Duomo, the Last Supper is Milan’s other big ticket attraction. It’s open year round and tickets must be booked in advance – make sure you do so at least two months before your visit!
The Last Supper is located in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, which is also one of the most beautiful churches in Milan. We recommend booking a guided tour to visit that also includes the interior of the church, or even a combo tour to both the Last Supper and the Duomo.
Devour some Zeppole
March 19th in Italy is Father’s Day – unlike elsewhere in the world, fathers are always celebrated on the same day in Italy, regardless of when it falls during the week. March 19th is also St Joseph’s Day, and it’s customary to have zeppole, huge donuts filled with chantilly cream or creme patissiere, topped with more creme pat and a sour cherry.
You’ll find zeppole on offer at all pastry shops in Milan, in large and small versions. They are really one of my favourite sweets and I recommend trying them – good pastry shops like Martesana and Clivati have delicious zeppole.
Zeppole are traditionally from Napoli, so you can get very good ones at Neapolitan pastry shops like Sciuscià or Aroma Napoletano.
Hunt for Unique Finds at Vintage Markets
March is an excellent time to visit Milan’s vintage markets for unique finds. The East Market is a popular spot, featuring vintage clothing, antiques, and handmade goods from local artisans.
Another great option is the Mercatone dell’Antiquariato on the Naviglio Grande, a vintage market held on the last Sunday of the month. Stroll along the picturesque canals as you browse through a wide selection of objects, furniture, and collectibles. There are also some clothes, but this market is more about things like old clocks, vintage china, rare toys and the like.
These markets provide an authentic Milanese experience. You might discover rare items and score attractive deals while engaging with local vendors.
Take a Day Trip to Bergamo
Last but not least, the longer days in March are a great excuse to take some day trips from Milan. For example, you could head to Bergamo, just a short train ride from Milan, a medieval city that captivates visitors with its stunning architecture and hilltop views.
Explore the Città Alta, the upper town, where you can wander through narrow streets, visit Piazza Vecchia, and admire the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Don’t forget to try local specialties like polenta e osei, a delicious cake made from polenta. Bergamo’s rich history and stunning scenery make it a must-visit destination.
Or a Day Trip to Lake Como
Another popular day trip from Milan is to Lake Como, famous for its picturesque villages and stunning landscapes. Trains run frequently from Milan to various towns along the lake, such as Varenna or Como.
Once you arrive, enjoy a scenic boat ride across the water. This offers opportunities to appreciate the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and villas. Then, pick one lakeside village or two and explore charming streets, dine at lakefront restaurants, or visit magnificent villas like Villa Carlotta, known for its stunning gardens.
March is a really good time to visit Lake Como, as overtourism has increased the influx of visitors so much that a day trip to the lake between April and September is best avoided. March is still very good, especially if you can visit during the week!
Looking for more month-by-month Italy guides? There you are!