What March feels like in Lyon
March is early spring in Lyon. The daytime air has a chill to it, though it is rarely bitter. Evenings bring a clear drop in temperature, and nights are cold. Damp air makes the cold feel rawer than the numbers alone suggest.
Rain in Lyon in March
It is a changeable month: rain comes about one day in 3, with dry spells in between. Wet days average about 5.4 mm (0.2 in), enough to soak you without an umbrella. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 7.3 mm per rainy day. It is among the three driest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in March
On 15 March the sun rises at about 6:56 am and sets around 6:45 pm local time, giving 11 h 50 min of daylight. Since mid-February the day has gained 1 h 29 min. The sun is out for roughly 74% of those daylight hours, so there are plenty of bright spells.
How March compares to the rest of the year
In Lyon's temperature order, March sits as the 5th coolest month. Compared with February, afternoons are 3.8°C (6.8°F) warmer, with 11 mm more rain. Temperatures keep climbing into April. By April, typical highs are 16.9°C (62.4°F).
Who March suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — the weather rarely gets in the way of a city walk.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
Tips for visiting Lyon in March
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights — layers you can add or remove.
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag and wear shoes that cope with puddles.
Warm Layers
Insulated layers and warm shoes for the cold hours.
Sunglasses
Frequent sunshine — sunglasses and a light hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Lyon in March?
Expect around 12.8°C (55°F) in the afternoon and 3.4°C (38.1°F) at night, which most visitors would call chilly.
Does it rain a lot in Lyon in March?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 65 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Lyon in March?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection, warm layers and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is March or April better for visiting Lyon?
On our 12-month climate ranking, April comes out ahead (#4 of 12 vs #8). April is warmer and has fewer rainy days.