March is a little rebel – sometimes spring, sometimes winter, but always full of surprises. Where is it blooming, where is there still snow, and where is there always a lot going on? Here are ten destinations that make March special in Germany.
Palatinate – Almond Blossom and Wine Spring
In March, a pink queen reigns in the Palatinate: the almond blossom. Along the German Wine Route, blossoming trees line the road, accompanied by the first Federweisser (new wine) and cheerful wine festivals. Bad Dürkheim, Neustadt and Edenkoben shine in pastel colors, while hikers and cyclists conquer the rolling hills. For those who like it sporty: the Almond Blossom Festival in Gimmeldingen is a highlight – weather permitting.
Hamburg – Spring on the Alster
The Hanseatic city is slowly shaking off the winter. The first crocuses and daffodils stretch towards the sun on the ramparts, and the first outdoor terraces at the Landungsbrücken are opening again. A round trip around the Alster, a fish roll under a bright blue sky – and maybe even a balmy evening in the Schanzenviertel. Hamburg can do spring. Sometimes. So don’t forget your rain jacket.
Harz – Last Chance for Winter Magic
While crocuses are already blooming down in Wernigerode and Quedlinburg, there is often still snow on the Brocken. Perfect for a last trip into winter, preferably with the steaming Brocken railway. Whether skiing in Braunlage or snowshoeing in Schierke – here you can get the full March blast of frost and spring.
Berlin – Cultural Spring Cleaning
In March, the capital city Berlin starts the festival season. The Berlinale is over, but music and art events take over. How about the exhibition “Extreme Tension. Art between Politics and Society” in the Neue Nationalgalerie? The first flowers sprout in the parks around Charlottenburg Palace and in the Tiergarten, while the cafés put their chairs outside. Insider tip: the first tulips and daffodils bloom in Britzer Garden at the end of March – almost like in Holland, only with a Berlin attitude.
Bavaria – Skiing or Spring Hiking?
Two seasons in one day? No problem in Bavaria. Skiing on the Zugspitze or in the Allgäu in the morning, and breathing in the spring air in Munich‘s English Garden in the afternoon. Lake Tegernsee beckons with its first sun terraces, while the slopes are still calling in Garmisch. March is a luxury problem here: winter jacket or sunglasses? Just pack both.
Mecklenburg Lake District – the Calm Before the Rush
Before the summer season starts, the Mecklenburg Lake District belongs to those who enjoy peace and quiet. Wafts of mist over the water, clear air and the first migratory birds on their return flight. Perfect for a break in a holiday home by the lake, combined with long walks or an initial stand-up paddleboard tour. Müritz National Park is slowly coming to life – with a bit of luck, an otter may already be scurrying through the water.
Saxony – a Spring Stroll Through Dresden
The Florence on the Elbe is sprucing itself up: the first flowers in the Great Garden, a sunset on Brühl’s Terrace and the Elbe glistening in the evening light. The beer gardens around the Frauenkirche are filling up again – but every now and then you still need a radiant heater. Culture? Of course! The Semper Opera House and the museums are enticing visitors with new exhibitions. You can still admire the last drawings of the Caspar David Friedrich exhibition on the 250th anniversary of his birth (until March 16, 2025) or the “Fate Symphony” in the Kulturpalast under the banner of the “abFRACKt” program. March in Dresden is the perfect mix of outdoor enjoyment and cultural kick.
Black Forest – Cuckoo Clocks and Spring Awakening
While spring is spreading in the valleys of the Black Forest, there is still snow on the heights. Down below, the first meadows are already blooming, while up above, you can still go sledding. The perfect month for leisurely hikers: Kaiserstuhl hikes in spring-like 15-degree weather or a last snowshoe tour on the Feldberg? Both are possible – and a traditional Black Forest cake awaits as a reward.
East Frisia – Teetied with a View
Windy and raw, but full of charm: the East Frisian coast in March is a must for true North Sea fans. Walks on the dikes, lonely beaches and the feeling of having the mudflats almost to yourself. Greetsiel, Norderney and Juist are still quiet now – perfect for a tea ceremony overlooking the sea. And when the wind is too strong? Then it’s off to the sauna with a sea view.
