Things to Do in Jerusalem in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Jerusalem
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather - cool mornings at 9°C (49°F) ideal for Jerusalem Trail sections without summer heat exhaustion
- Wildflower season peaks in Judean Hills - anemones and cyclamens bloom through March creating stunning photography opportunities
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than Passover/Easter peak season in April
- Comfortable outdoor exploration - spending 6-8 hours walking the Old City quarters without oppressive heat or winter rain gear
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain showers - 10 rainy days mean outdoor plans need flexible backup options, particularly for archaeological sites
- Cool evenings require warm layers - temperature drops 8°C (14°F) after sunset, catching visitors unprepared for rooftop dining
- Variable weather makes packing challenging - need both t-shirts and sweaters in the same suitcase
Best Activities in March
Jerusalem Archaeological Walking Tours
March's mild temperatures make exploring underground excavations like City of David tunnels comfortable - no summer crowds or winter closures. Cool mornings perfect for 3-4 hour walks through Western Wall tunnels and Temple Mount area without heat exhaustion. Rain typically clears by afternoon for outdoor sites.
Dead Sea Day Trips
March offers perfect Dead Sea weather - warm enough at 22°C (72°F) for comfortable floating without summer's brutal 40°C+ (104°F+) heat. Clear skies 70% of March ideal for Masada sunrise hikes. Spring brings temporary wildflower blooms in Ein Gedi nature reserve.
Judean Hills Wine Tasting Tours
Spring pruning season in Jerusalem Corridor wineries offers unique behind-scenes experiences. March weather perfect for outdoor tastings at 15°C (59°F) afternoons. Local wineries less crowded before tourist season, allowing intimate conversations with winemakers about new vintage preparations.
Bethlehem Cultural Heritage Tours
March's comfortable walking weather ideal for exploring Bethlehem's Christian sites without summer heat. Almond trees bloom creating picturesque backdrops for Church of Nativity visits. Fewer pilgrims than Easter season allow genuine interactions with local artisans in traditional workshops.
Jerusalem Food Market Walking Tours
March brings seasonal produce to Mahane Yehuda Market - fresh strawberries, artichokes, and early spring vegetables. Cool morning temperatures perfect for 3-hour market exploration and cooking workshops. Purim season (early March) features special holiday treats and festive atmosphere.
Galilee Day Trips from Jerusalem
March offers optimal Galilee weather - mild temperatures for Sea of Galilee boat rides and comfortable hiking around Mount of Beatitudes. Spring wildflowers blanket Golan Heights. Less crowded than peak Christian pilgrimage months allowing peaceful reflection at sacred sites.
March Events & Festivals
Purim Festival
Jewish carnival celebration with elaborate costumes throughout Jerusalem. Street parties in Mahane Yehuda Market, special Purim pastries (hamantaschen), and festive atmosphere in religious neighborhoods. Unique opportunity to see ultra-Orthodox communities in celebration mode.
Jerusalem International Book Fair
Hebrew and international literature festival featuring author readings, cultural events, and rare manuscript displays. Held at Jerusalem International Convention Center with shuttle services from city center. Includes English-language programming for international visitors.