Considered off-season, March is a great time to visit Israel and explore its bucket list of biblical sites and lively coastal towns without the crowds. Mount Hermon, in northern Israel, will still have a dusting of snow, while Eilat, in southern Israel, will see temperatures in the 70s (Fahrenheit), perfect for long days at the beach. However, as Easter draws near, Christians from around the world flock to the country, and once-quiet churches and biblical landmarks will be busy.

Weather

March is the beginning of spring in Israel, and along with warmer temperatures comes the easing of rain and the blooming of wildflowers. Eilat, in southern Israel, will see the warmest temperatures with an average high of 79ºF (26ºC), lows dipping to 55ºF (13ºC), and only 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain throughout the month. Jerusalem, on the other hand, is cooler, with temperatures fluctuating between 47ºF (9ºC) and 59ºF (15ºC) and 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain. Visitors can head to Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights for even colder temperatures to catch the end of the ski season.

Crowds & Costs

Visitor numbers and prices are lower in March compared to the busier months of April through September. However, March is also a tail of two halves. Early in the month, you can look forward to cheaper accommodation and quiet streets in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Bucket list sites such as the Via Dolorosa, the meandering route it's believed Jesus walked on his way to his crucifixion, and Museum Yad Vashem (World Holocaust Remembrance Center) will be yours to explore without the crowds.

On the other hand, Eilat, with its perfect spring temperatures, will see an influx of domestic and European travelers, and prices in the bustling resort town will be on the rise. Toward the end of March and the leadup to Easter, Christians worldwide flock to Israel—especially to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and other famous biblical sites. Expect higher prices and crowded holy sites countrywide.

Where to Go

With its pleasant temperatures and easing rain, March is the perfect month to split your time between the cities, biblical sites, and impressive landscapes dotted across Israel. Take in Tel Aviv's historic neighborhood of Neve Tzedek and Rabin Square, then transport back to modern-day times with a stroll along the lively Sheinkin street. In Jerusalem, you'll want to pack your raincoat just in case, but in return, you can experience the Wailing Wall and Temple Mount without the crowds.

Then, continue north to Tiberias, stopping at the small village of Cana and the biblical city of Nazareth. Those looking to take in holy sites can also tour the Church of the Multiplication, where it's believed Christ fed 5,000 people with just two fish and five loaves of bread, and take a boat ride along the Sea of Galilee to see firsthand where the Sermon on the Mount is believed to have occurred.

If you want to experience Israel's unique landscapes, March is a great time to stop by the UNESCO-listed hilltop fortress of Masada, located in the Judean Desert. Then, explore Qumran Caves on your way to the shores of the Dead Sea. At the other end of the country, you can soak up the sun and play in the warming waters of the Red Sea in Eilat or head out for a hike in the Red Canyon.

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What to Do

Whether you're visiting for a religious experience, a relaxing vacation, or to check out Israel's fascinating culture and landscapes, March is a fantastic time to visit. The calendar is full of unique things to do. Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias all host marathons in March, while Holon puts on a 10-day International Puppet Festival. Throughout the country, decorations are put up in anticipation of Easter, and biblical sites are awakened with a respectful buzz of visitors.

With spring flowers blooming, March is one of the best times to tour Golan Heights and take in the fields of wildflowers below the snowcapped Mount Hermon. Then, over in the port town of Haifa, head to the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, to roam the perfectly groomed terraced gardens overlooking Haifa Bay.

If you're more interested in learning about Israel's rich history and culture, you can split your time between the country's museums and churches. Learn about the history of Jewish people at the Diaspora Museum, step back to the time of the Second Temple at the Israel Museum, and admire the towering church of Saint Peter at Galicantu. Then, before heading home, tour the Tel Aviv Diamond Exchange and wander the mesmerizing markets of Acre.

Events in March

Fattal Rock Festival, Eilat. Around the first weekend of March, Israel's biggest rock stars arrive in Eilat for a weekend of shows and partying.

Purim Street Parties, nationwide. Throughout the country, festivals celebrate the Jewish people's survival through the Persian Empire. Young and old alike dress up and let loose with street dancing, drinking, and a weekend of fun.

Easter, nationwide. Easter occasionally falls in March, and Christians from near and far come to Israel to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and visit the country's many biblical sites.

Traveling to Israel in March? Check out these great itineraries

Essential Israel: Tel Aviv, Jerusalem & Tiberias - 12 Days. Split your time between Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Tiberias, and head out for day trips to Masada, Golan Heights, and Nazareth on this 12-day itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors to Israel.

Family Adventure in Israel - 12 Days. Explore the highlights of Israel from top to bottom on this family-friendly itinerary, taking in the ancient city of Jerusalem, the biblical sites of Tiberias, and the sun-soaked town of Eilat.

More Helpful Information

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Best Time of Year to Visit Israel
How Many Days to Spend in Israel