Things to Do in Montenegro in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Montenegro
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Spring awakening brings wildflowers to Durmitor and Biogradska Gora national parks, with snow still capping peaks for dramatic photo opportunities
- Shoulder season pricing means accommodation costs 40-50% less than summer months, with coastal hotels offering €35-60/night vs €80-150 in July
- Perfect hiking temperatures of 8-12°C (46-54°F) in mountains, ideal for Bobotov Kuk ascent and Tara River canyon trails without summer heat exhaustion
- Local restaurants switch to spring menus featuring wild asparagus, nettle soup, and fresh trout - seasonal dishes unavailable in peak summer tourist season
Considerations
- Coastal swimming is uncomfortable with Adriatic temperatures at 15-17°C (59-63°F) - locals don't swim until May
- Mountain roads above 1,200m (3,937 ft) may close unexpectedly due to late snow, potentially blocking access to Zabljak and higher Durmitor trails
- Daylight hours limited to 11.5 hours daily, with sunset at 6:30pm reducing evening exploration time compared to summer's 15+ hour days
Best Activities in March
Bay of Kotor Coastal Cycling
March offers ideal cycling temperatures of 10-15°C (50-59°F) with minimal traffic on coastal roads. The 100km (62-mile) Bay of Kotor loop showcases blooming Mediterranean vegetation without summer's scorching heat. Morning mists create atmospheric photography conditions around Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks.
Durmitor National Park Hiking
March is prime hiking season before tourist crowds arrive. Temperatures stay comfortable at 5-10°C (41-50°F) at elevation, with snow-free trails below 1,500m (4,921 ft). Black Lake circuit and Crno Jezero trails offer spectacular reflections of snow-capped peaks. Wildlife is more active during spring feeding season.
Traditional Village Gastronomy Tours
March coincides with spring food traditions - locals prepare preserved meats, homemade rakija tastings, and foraged spring greens. Village restaurants in Njeguši and Cetinje mountains offer authentic experiences without summer tour bus crowds. Traditional cheese-making season begins as sheep return to higher pastures.
Tara River Valley Photography Tours
March provides dramatic lighting conditions with morning fog banks and snow-dusted canyon walls. The Tara Bridge and Đurđevića Tara viewpoints offer spectacular shots without summer haze. Spring water levels create powerful rapids for dynamic river photography before rafting season begins in April.
Historical Budva and Kotor Walking Tours
March weather is perfect for extended walking with temperatures of 12-16°C (54-61°F) and minimal summer crowds. Kotor's medieval walls and Budva's Stari Grad reveal details impossible to appreciate during peak season congestion. Local guides share stories without competing with cruise ship tour groups.
Skadar Lake Bird Watching Expeditions
March marks peak migration season with over 140 bird species returning to Europe's largest lake. Pelican colonies become active, and rare species like pygmy cormorants are easily spotted. Calm morning conditions and clear air provide excellent photography opportunities before summer's heat haze.
March Events & Festivals
Orthodox Easter Celebrations
March 2025 features Orthodox Easter (varies by calendar), with traditional midnight services at Ostrog Monastery and Cetinje Monastery. Locals prepare traditional Easter bread and red-dyed eggs. Monastery visits offer authentic religious experiences with fewer tourists than summer months.