Cycling in Tuscany, the Milan Derby and a Florentine New Year… Italy in March

As we edge towards spring, winter still lingers in the north, but warmer weather starts to emerge in the south, making it one of the best times to experience Italy. From snow-swept Alpine slopes to sunlit Tuscan hills, March offers a range of unforgettable experiences.

March 6-22: Paralympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina

From March 6-15, the 2026 Winter Paralympics is in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. Watch more than 650 athletes competing in 79 medal events across six sports – Para Alpine skiing, Para biathlon, Para cross-country skiing, Para ice hockey, Para snowboard and wheelchair curling. Tickets are still available.

March 7: Strade Bianche

Cycling fans and scenery lovers alike will adore the Strade Bianche on March 7. One of cycling’s most picturesque and thrilling one-day races, it starts in Siena, the route winding through the rolling hills of Tuscany, passing charming medieval villages, vineyards, and the region’s famous white gravel roads – the ‘strade bianche’ that give the race its name. Spectators are welcome along many parts of the course, especially near Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Asciano, where the climbs and gravel sections offer dramatic views of the peloton. Watching elite riders speed past ancient landscapes with the Tuscan countryside as a backdrop is an unforgettable experience, combining sport, scenery, and the romance of Italy in early spring.

March 8: Milan Derby

San Siro lovers, mark your calendars. With Inter out of the Champions League after losing to Bodo Glimt, the Derby della Madonnina is scheduled for Sunday March 8 at 20:45 CET.

The electric atmosphere of thousands of chanting fans, flares and a rivalry that is pure Italian passion is always the highlight of our visit to the city.

AC Milan are the ‘home’ team for this fixture and tickets go on sale through their website, with priority given to season ticket holders and club loyalty card members. If you’re not a member, the fidelity card can usually be purchased online for around €20, giving you access to the early ticket sale. For international visitors, authorised resellers such as P1Travel.com offer match tickets, and while these tend to come at a premium, they are probably the best bet late in the day as this fixture sells out quickly.

March 25: Florentine New Year

On March 25, Florence celebrates its ancient New Year, a tradition dating back centuries. A colourful parade winds through the historic centre from the Palagio di Parte Guelfa to the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata, home to the iconic Annunciation fresco. Costumes, pageantry, and centuries-old rituals bring the city to life, perfectly syncing with the first days of spring.

March 28-30: Pizza Village, Naples

From March 28-30, Naples turns into the ultimate pizza playground with Pizza Village on Lungomare Via Caracciolo. Master pizzaioli dish up traditional favourites and inventive creations, while music, performances, and family activities add to the carnival atmosphere. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a slice with the sparkling Gulf of Naples as your backdrop.