Things to Do in Montevideo in March

March Weather in Montevideo

25°C (77°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

107 mm (4.2 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season timing - March sits between peak summer heat and winter crowds, offering comfortable temperatures averaging 21°C (70°F) with refreshing Atlantic breezes
Autumn harvest season brings exceptional local produce to markets and restaurants - chestnuts, quinces, and late-season grapes create unique seasonal menus unavailable other times
University semester restart energizes the city's cultural scene with new theater productions, art exhibitions, and live music venues operating at full capacity after summer break
Ideal conditions for exploring Ciudad Vieja on foot - moderate temperatures and lower humidity make 3-4 km (1.9-2.5 mile) walking tours comfortable throughout the day

Considerations

Unpredictable rain patterns with 10 wet days monthly - afternoon showers can last 1-2 hours and disrupt outdoor plans, requiring flexible scheduling
Beach weather becomes inconsistent - while still swimmable at 20°C (68°F), cloudy days and choppy Rio de la Plata waters make beach time less reliable than summer months
Higher accommodation prices as business travel resumes and locals return from summer holidays, with rates 15-25% above winter levels

Best Activities in March

Historic Ciudad Vieja Walking Exploration

March's moderate temperatures and cooling river winds create perfect conditions for exploring Montevideo's colonial heart. The 2.5 km² (1 square mile) historic quarter is best experienced on foot, with comfortable walking weather avoiding both summer's oppressive heat and winter's harsh winds. Spring energy brings street performers and outdoor café culture back to Plaza Independencia.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is ideal, though guided tours (typically $25-40 USD per person) run daily at 10am and 3pm. Book walking tours 2-3 days ahead through licensed operators. Many attractions offer combo tickets for $15-25 USD covering 4-5 historic sites.

Rambla Coastal Cycling Tours

The 22 km (13.7 mile) Rambla waterfront promenade is magnificent in March with fresh autumn air and fewer crowds than summer. Bicycle infrastructure improvements completed in 2024 added protected lanes, making cycling safer and more enjoyable. Atlantic winds provide natural cooling during the day, and sunset timing around 7:30pm is perfect for evening rides.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals typically cost $20-35 USD per day with guided tours ranging $45-65 USD including bike, helmet, and guide. Book 5-7 days ahead during March as local cycling clubs also increase activity. Look for operators offering electric bike options for the longer coastal route.

Mercado del Puerto Food Experiences

March marks the return of peak activity at Montevideo's iconic market after the slower summer period. Autumn's harvest brings exceptional produce, and the covered market provides perfect shelter during March's frequent rain showers. Traditional parrilla restaurants operate full-capacity with seasonal specialties like cordero (lamb) and autumn vegetable selections.

Booking Tip: Market operates Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-6pm with peak activity 12-3pm. Food tours typically cost $55-75 USD per person including tastings at 4-5 vendors. Book food experiences 1 week ahead as March sees increased business lunch traffic. Look for tours that include wine pairings with Uruguayan Tannat.

Montevideo Wine Region Day Trips

March is harvest season in Uruguay's wine regions, just 45-90 minutes from Montevideo. Canelones and Montevideo departments offer exceptional Tannat tastings during harvest time, with many bodegas offering special harvest participation experiences unavailable other months. Cooler March weather makes vineyard tours more comfortable than summer heat.

Booking Tip: Full-day wine tours typically cost $85-120 USD per person including transportation, 3-4 winery visits, and lunch. Harvest participation experiences cost $100-150 USD. Book 10-14 days ahead as March harvest season has limited availability. Most tours depart Montevideo 9am, return 6pm.

Teatro Solís Cultural Performances

March brings the theater season back to full swing after summer break, with Teatro Solís presenting opera, ballet, and symphonic performances. The 1856 theater offers behind-the-scenes tours showcasing restoration completed in 2024. March weather makes evening performances more appealing than summer heat, with shows typically starting 8pm.

Booking Tip: Performance tickets range $20-80 USD depending on seating and show type. Theater tours cost $8-12 USD and run Tuesday-Sunday at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. Book cultural performances 2-3 weeks ahead as March marks season opening with popular premieres. Check for student discounts if applicable.

Punta del Este Day Excursions

March offers unique Punta del Este experiences as summer crowds depart but weather remains pleasant for beach walks and coastal exploration. The 130 km (81 mile) journey east provides stunning autumn coastal scenery, and off-season rates make luxury resort day passes more affordable. Beach temperatures around 20°C (68°F) are perfect for walking, not swimming.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost $75-95 USD per person including transportation and guided tour. Beach club day passes range $35-55 USD in March compared to $80+ in summer. Book 1 week ahead as tour operators reduce frequency after peak season. Private car rentals cost $60-80 USD per day if you prefer self-driving.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Festival de Cine de Montevideo

Annual international film festival featuring Latin American cinema premieres and retrospectives at venues throughout the city. March timing coincides with autumn cultural season launching, offering unique access to regional filmmakers and industry professionals.

Third weekend of March

Feria de Libros y Grabados Antiguos

Antique book and print fair in Plaza Cagancha featuring rare Uruguayan publications and regional historical documents. March weather provides ideal outdoor browsing conditions for this monthly cultural market that expands significantly in autumn.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof rain jacket with breathable fabric - March averages 10 rainy days with showers lasting 1-2 hours and temperatures dropping 5-7°C (9-13°F) during storms

Layered clothing system including light merino wool sweaters - daily temperature swings of 8°C (14°F) require easy adjustment options

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Ciudad Vieja's colonial cobblestones become slippery when wet, and you'll walk 5-8 km (3-5 miles) daily exploring

SPF 50+ sunscreen despite variable weather - UV index reaches 8 on clear days and Atlantic reflection intensifies sun exposure along the Rambla

Compact umbrella for sudden downpours - afternoon rain showers develop quickly from Atlantic weather systems and can catch pedestrians unprepared

Long pants in breathable cotton or linen - March evenings cool to 17°C (62°F) and wind off the Rio de la Plata can feel chilly

Light scarf or wrap for evening dining - outdoor restaurant patios remain popular but require extra warmth after 7pm

Power bank for phone - increased indoor time during rain means more navigation and translation app usage throughout the day

Cash in small bills - many traditional markets and small cafés still prefer cash, especially during slower shoulder season operations

Insider Knowledge

Local university students return in March, creating vibrant nightlife in Barrio Sur and Palermo neighborhoods - follow their lead to authentic late-night eateries and bars that tourists rarely discover

March marks peak season for Montevideo's underground tango scene in private homes and community centers - ask at cultural centers like Centro Cultural de España for current milonga schedules

Afternoon rain timing is predictable - locals plan outdoor activities for morning hours and use 2-5pm for indoor shopping, museums, or café culture when showers typically occur

Bus system operates on reduced summer schedules through mid-March before returning to full frequency - allow extra 15-20 minutes for public transportation during first half of month

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only summer clothes assuming March is warm - evening temperatures drop significantly and indoor spaces can be poorly heated, leaving visitors uncomfortable

Booking beach-focused accommodations in Pocitos or Buceo expecting swimming weather - March water temperatures and frequent clouds make beach areas less appealing than central neighborhoods

Planning rigid outdoor itineraries without rain backup plans - March's 10 wet days can disrupt walking tours and outdoor dining, requiring flexible scheduling and indoor alternatives