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Event The Roman Days of Nîmes - Vercingetorix

Event liberation festival pilsen, event cheese festival of gruyères.

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Browse the best local events in Europe by name, by country or by date or simply get inspired for your next trip to Europe.

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Strawberry festival.

The picturesque parish square in the agricultural village of Imgarr will host ‘Festa Frawli’ – the annual Strawberry Festival.

Wachau Gourmet Festival

The Wachau is a region which straddles the banks of the Danube, is rich in history and blessed with a mild climate and outstanding white wines. Surrounded by this magic scenery a Festival takes place that over the past seven editions has won its place on the international gastronomy scene. During its program, the world heritage site of Wachau dazzles with a delicious culinary programme and the presence of top international chefs.

Tallinn Music Week

Tallinn Music Week is a vibrant spring festival celebrating talent, creativity, and equality through a diverse showcase of music and arts.

Trout Festival

Discover this gourmet festival which takes place during the month of April in all the restaurants of Bouillon and the nearby villages.

Upcoming events

Cheese festival of gruyères.

The Development Society of Gruyères-Moléson organizes the Cheese Festival in the heart of the medieval town of Gruyères.

Priorat Wine Fair

The Priorat Wine Fair, dedicated to DOC Priorat and DO Montsant, is held annually on the first weekend of May.

Liberation Festival Pilsen

The Liberation festival in Pilsen unites people worldwide to celebrate the town’s liberation by the US Army.

The Roman Days of Nîmes - Vercingetorix

Experience history at The Roman Days of Nîmes – Vercingetorix, a captivating event showcasing ancient Roman life with exciting re-enactments.

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Best Events in Europe

Discover the events not to be missed in Europe in 2024

• Best Events in Europe in 2024

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From unmissable traditional events like the Keukenhof Tulip Festival or the St Patrick's Day in Dublin to exceptional events like the the Festival of Lights Zagreb in  Croatia , discover the events not to be missed in Europe in 2024 .

The best cultural events but also the biggest sporting, high society or popular events await you in 2024.

Book your flights , your accommodation as well as your tours and activities  and live unforgettable moments through the best events in Europe.

1. The Opera Ball - Vienna

Immerse yourself in high society and discover the codes of one of the most exclusive balls in Europe.

The Opera Ball , held at Vienna 's magnificent State Opera House, is deemed the epitome of ball culture and a top-calibre social event, attracting celebrities from around the globe .

This mega event is fully given over to waltzing bliss at a venue where usually opera stars make their big-time stage appearances.

The 186 couples dancing the opening polonaise - ladies dressed in white and men in black - experience their "introduction to Viennese society". For others, it is an unforgettable evening at this imposing edifice on Vienna's Ringstrasse Boulevard.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Vienna and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Grand Hotel Vienna ". 3-minute Walk from the Vienna State Opera.

When: 8th  February 2024 .

2. Carnival of Venice

This is for sure of the best events in Europe. The Carnival of Venice is magic with its fairy tales and fantastic natures: woods,  valleys, seas, mountains, lagoons mysterious animal and vegetable creatures inhabiting them.  Humankind has always felt the need to narrate the mystery of nature through fairy tales.

During your stay do not miss to visit the Best hidden gems in Italy , most beautiful beaches in Italy , best things to do in Italy and most amazing natural wonders in Italy .

Book your flights to Venice, your accommodation in Venice as well as your tours and activities in Venice such as a " Venice: Create your Own Carnival Mask Workshop ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Venice and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Carnival Palace - Venice Collection " is 10 m from the Tre Archi Vaporetto water bus stop.

When:  27th January to 13th February 2024

3. Festival of Lights Zagreb

Festival of Lights Zagreb – When the city becomes a stage of light

Zagreb is preparing for one of the most exciting events this spring – the   Festival of Lights  Zagreb !

Creative, imaginative, magical and sometimes quite unusual light installations created by local and foreign artists, including artists from Germany, Spain and Slovakia, will find their place throughout the city center and attract a multitude of visitors from all over the world.

From 20 to 24 March 2024, Zagreb will become a stage for spectacular light installations, projections and animations that will bring the streets, parks, squares and other popular locations throughout the city to life. The Zagreb Festival of Lights, now in its sixth year, will merge art, design, spectacle and architecture over five days in a way that will delight visitors of all generations.

The Zagreb Festival of Lights is more than just an event – it is an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of warmer and longer days together and to reconnect with the city in a unique way. Enjoy more than 25 light installations, explore new parts of the city included in this year’s program and experience Zagreb in a completely new light.

In collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), an international non-governmental organization working to conserve nature and reduce human impact on the environment, this year’s Festival pays special attention to the importance of conserving plant and animal life .

The main symbol of this year’s Festival is the forest cyclamen (Latin: Cyclamen purpurascens), an endangered spring flower, reminding us of the importance of protecting natural beauty and wild species, encouraging us to act to preserve these treasures for future generations. The Zagreb Festival of Lights will also show its support for highlighting the necessity and urgency of nature conservation by participating in the global event Earth Hour.

Join the Zagreb Festival of Lights and become part of this unique experience that will transport you into a world of imagination and enchantment.

To make the best of your stay in Zagreb, create your own Zagreb experience with the help of Zagreb Card . Apart from facilitating public transport, it also provides you with the entrance to numerous Zagreb museums and even the zoo, so that you don’t miss out on a single detail of Zagreb’s rich history and culture.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Zagreb and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Esplanade Zagreb Hotel ". Near the main train station.

When:  From 20th to 24th March 2024 .

4. St Patrick's Day in Dublin

If you visit our rankings of the best hidden gems in Ireland , best castles in Ireland , best destinations to visit in Ireland , best things to do in Ireland , you will discover the secret of Saint Patrick and the reasons that link Ireland to this Saint and its iconic symbols like the clover.

Land of legend, Ireland is also a land of beliefs. St Patrick is a central figure in the history of Ireland since he is the founder of Christianity in Ireland. His incredible story (kidnapped by pirates, sold as a slave, turned to be a shepherd,  ended up studying theology) will have enabled him to understand the importance of explaining things with simplicity. He thus had the idea of explaining the Catholic trinity, the father, the son and the holy spirit comparing it to a three-leaf clover.

On March 17, the death of St Patrick is celebrated: people wear green (in reference to the three-leaf clover) , they eat and drink Irish specialties while listening to U2 in the Temple Bar district or by experiencing one of the many experiences, tours and activities in Dublin such as a “ Dublin: Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings ”.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Dublin and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  “ Castle Hotel ” is just 2’ minutes walk from O’Connel Street.

When:   The 17th March 2024 .

5. Keukenhof Tulip Flower Festival

Lisse  - Holland

Ranked among your best destinations for Easter in Europe and Best things to do in the Netherlands , Keukenhof Tulip Flower Festival is one of the unmissable events in Europe in 2024 .

Visiting Keukenhof Gardens is one of the most interesting activities at Easter in Europe. Hundreds of thousands of colourful tulips grow there each year and are admired by visitors at Easter. You can also watch a traditional clog maker at work, walk in the beautiful village of Zaanse Schans and admire its windmills.

Did you know that Keukenhof Tulip Flower Festival was actually a trade show? Horticulturists from all over the country come to exhibit their most beautiful creations to sell them to suppliers from all over the world? It has become a general public event that attracts travellers from all over the world.

During your stay do not miss to visit the best hidden gems in the Netherlands but also the best places to visit in the Netherlands and to make your choice among the Best things to do in the Netherlands such as a " From Amsterdam: Keukenhof Skip-the- Line Ticket and Transfer ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Amsterdam (1h by car – 2h by bike).

  Where to stay:  " De l'Europe Amsterdam " offers luxurious accommodation along the Amstel River in the heart of the city. 

When:   21st March – 12th May 2024.

6. The Cooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling  England

The Cooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake is an annual event held on the Spring Bank Holiday at Cooper's Hill, near Gloucester in England .

It is traditionally by and for the people who live in the local village of Brockworth, but now people from all over the world take part.

The Guardian called it a " world-famous event ", and indeed, in 2023, a 27 year old American and a 39 year old Japanese each won one of the four races. The event takes its name from the hill on which it occurs. 

The event is traditional. In recent years, it has been managed in a quasi-official manner, but since 2010 the event has taken place spontaneously without any management. 

Need more inspiration? During your stay discover the  B est  H idden Gems in England , Best Castles in England and Most Beautiful Beaches in England .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Gloucestershire Airport.

  Where to stay:  " The New Inn ". Located in the heart of Gloucester. 

7. King's Day in Amsterdam

Do you like the orange colour, monarchies and  parties²? The "Koningsday" - Kings's Day, is an event made for you. In the streets, on the canals, in the parks, everyone celebrates in Amsterdam during this event which is certainly the biggest street party of the year .

You usually don’t wear orange? Don't worry, King's Day is full of flea markets where you can buy boas, hats, jogging suits, t-shirts, in the colours of this surprising and eccentric country.  King's Day can be a riot of scantily clad revellers drinking local beers on Amsterdam's canals or enjoying the best concerts after dark, it's also a family event with children shows in the Vondelpark. King's day obviously ends with "King's Night" with DJs play parties on public squares, live music.

Finally, you can have your own King's Day party by booking accommodation along the Canal with a terrace to enjoy the best moments of this exceptional party.

Book your flights to Amsterdam, your accommodation in Amsterdam as well as your activities and tours in Amsterdam such as a " Amsterdam "Light Festival Cruise with Open Bar ". 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Amsterdam and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark ". Situated in the heart of the Vondelpark it offers view on the green surroundings.

When:  27th April 2024.

8. Madeira Flower Festival

It’s defnitely the most emblematic and colourful event of Madeira . For several weeks Funchal has the aroma of the flowers and the joy of thousands of visitors.

The construction of the Wall of Hope (where children place flowers) and the flower carpets in the streets are unique moments in this event. However, the climax of this event is the Flower Festival Float Parade, where more than a thousand participants, of all ages, join in this parade of aromas, magic and enchantment.

A week after, the city is embellished by the Madeira Auto Parade, combining the beauty of several classic cars with the simplicity and charm of the floral arrangements. A mix of magic not to be missed.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer . 

  Where to stay:  " Quinta da Casa Branca ”. Set within a banana plantation in Funchal.

When:  2nd - 26th May 2024 .

9. Art Basel

Switzerland

When it comes to contemporary art you have several choices: if you are lucky go see openings in art galleries  near you, or  wish that museums validate artists - which often takes about ten years (is art still contemporary then ?) or go to the Mecca of Ultra-contemporary art where the best gallery owners from around the world come to exhibit their best artists: we are talking about ArtBasel.

If the concept is sold around the world with "Art Basel Miami" "Art Basel Paris" "Art Basel Hong Kong" as you have Guggenheim Museums or Louvres all over the world, Art Basel in Basel obviously remains  unavoidable.  Art Basel is more accessible than an exhibition of modern art or contemporary art because the works are made for the public and not especially for a Museum and they are ultra-contemporary: an almost direct mirror of current events in the current world.

Art in Basel is like venturing yourself into listening to musical gems on Youtube Music or Spotify .

Treat yourself to this direct access art experience by booking your flights to Basel, your accommodation in Basel as well as your tours and activities in Basel such as a " Basel Craft Beer Tour '".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Basel and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Grand Hotel les Trois Rois ". Situated in the centre of Basel's Old Town".

When:  June 13-16, 2024 .

10. Haro wine festival

In the sixth century the rocks around the mountain where the fight is held was home to a hermit monk, who later became the patron saint of the town of Haro .

These mountains became a pilgrimage spot, especially on this special religious day, and after mass the pilgrims would gather for a feast, which would invariably get a little rowdy – to the point that a wine fight would break out.

Every year on the 29th of June, thousands of locals and a handful of lucky tourists climb a mountain in La Rioja, Spain, and throw wine on each other. 

During your stay do not miss the Best Beaches in Spain , Most Amazing Castles in Spain , Best Secret Destinations in Spain and Best Destinations to Visit in Spain . 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Bilbao (1h from Haro by car).

  Where to stay:  " Hesperia Bilbao ". Located near the Guggenheim Bilbao.

When:  29th June 2024 .

11. Roskilde Festival

9 days of music, spectacular art, events, delicious food,  is the promise of this Danish Music Festival considered one the best Summer Music Festival in Europe .

Created by students in 1971, Roskilde Festival has since grown to become, with nearly 130,000 visitors and the best musical artists of the moment, one of the biggest music festivals in Europe. Created by hippies, Roskilde has tried to keep this spirit by being one of the only non-profit making festivals in Europe, a feat when you know that 30 to 40% of European festivals are managed by large industrial groups.

Roskilde is situated on the Danish island of Zealand, west of Copenhagen (30 min by car - 1h30 by bike). 

Book your flights to Copenhagen, your accommodation in Copenhagen or Roskilde as well as your tours and activities in Denmark such as a " Copenhagen: Tivoli Gardens Unlimited Ride Pass ". 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Copenhagen and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Zleep Hotel Prindsen Roskilde ". Roskilde train station is just a 5-minute walk away.

When:  29th June - 6th July 2024 .

12. Henley Royal Regatta

Henley Royal Regatta is undoubtedly the best-known regatta in the world and a highlight of both the summer sporting calendar and the social season.

The Regatta attracts thousands of visitors over the week, and spectators are thrilled by over 300 races of an international standard, which can include Olympic rowers, as well as crews new to the event.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Member, the Regatta is sure to offer you a great day out - with plenty of racing action, great food & drink, and an electric atmosphere.

A quintessentially British event that's not to be missed!

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to London and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Kingsland Locke " as a top location highly rated  by recent guests.

When:  2th July to 7th July 2024.

13. Paris 2024 - Olympic Games

It is the most anticipated event of the year 2024. The city of Paris has been preparing for years to host the Olympic Games in the most accessible and green way possible.

It was a titanic project to transform the capital of love into the capital of sport , but the city abandoned its evening outfit to put on sports outfits, its high heels for sneakers and its "bateaux-mouches" for kayaking.

Of course the city will be busy but it will be strangely quite calm as well. Paris is often quieter in summer because Parisians flee the capital to go to the provinces (where the majority of them come from), and with the Olympic Games there will be even more of them giving you their place for a few greenbacks unless you prefer the comfort of a beautiful Parisian hotel or palace .

This summer, discover Paris at the best time of the year, summer, and vibrate to the rhythm of the Olympic Games.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Paris and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " The Chess Hotel ". Located in central Paris.

When:  26th July to 11th August 2024.

14. St Dominic's Fair

The tradition of St Dominic’s Fair in Gdańsk , Poland, goes back to 1260! Over the years, the event had gained international fame, attracting merchants of old from Germany, France, Flanders, England, Spain and Portugal. The city reverberated with different languages as a melting pot of traditions and customs.

It is no different today when the Fair takes over the streets of the Gdańsk Old Town. Everyone, regardless of age, will find something for themselves here. For over 764 years, this unique event, one of the largest open-air events in Europe , has been a festival of good vibrations.

For three summer weeks, from late July to mid-August, the quaint streets come alive with the rhythm of the Fair. This is where the best Polish artisans and artists make their presence felt.

The unique atmosphere of the Fair in an extraordinary historical space transports visitors to the ambience of old Gdańsk. You can feel it especially intensely in Collectors’ Street, full of antiques and works of art. Here, culinary fans can take a spectacular journey around the world by tasting dishes and beverages from all over the globe. 

Various leisure areas, unparalleled shopping opportunities, culinary thrills and a unique artistic programme are the best assets of the Fair. 

With its amazing views of the Gdańsk Fair and its surroundings, the AmberSky Observation Wheel guarantees an exciting time for all. Join us on our journey through the magical world of St Dominic’s Fair and let yourself be swept away by its unique charm!

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Gdansk.

When:  27th July - 18th August 2024.

For more information about the event, go to https://jarmarkswdominika.pl / 

15. Stockholm Pride 

It is probably one of the most historic prides in Europe and one of the oldest. The Stockholm Pride, created in 1998, has become a festive and demanding event that brings together more than half a million participants and spectators in the streets of Stockholm .

It's a whole cultural program with exhibitions, readings, debates, festivals, seminars, workshops, films, plays and other performances. Stockholm Pride is  more than a marketing event or a parade of nightclubs or commercial companies that want to reach the LGBTQ+ public, it is also one of the most qualitative prides in Europe for its global cultural offer. Much more than an event, it's a moment to think about a thousand societal issues, living together and the challenges of tomorrow.

Book your flights to Stockholm, your accommodation in Stockholm as well as your tours and activities in Stockholm such as a " Stockholm: Abba The Museum Entrance Ticket ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Stockholm as well as your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Esplanade: Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western ". Located in a prestigious street in central Stockholm.

When: From  31st July - 5th August 2024.

16. Notting Hill Carnival

London - United Kingdom

This Caribbean Festival has become an unmissable event in London . Every year, at the end of August, this colourful festival welcomes the best dance groups parade (nearly 40,000 volunteers and nearly 2 million spectators) for 2 days in the very famous district of Notting Hill.

This parade has marched through this area of London since the mid 1960's with DJs, food stalls and bars and the sounds of Carnival. The bands compete for honour but also for money since the sale of tickets for the show, which sees the 5 best bands compete, is donated to the performing bands.

During your stay, be sure to visit the best hidden gems in England , Best beaches in England and Best destinations to visit in England .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to London and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " The Laslett ". Spread across 5 Victorian mansions.

When:  25-26th August 2024 .

17. La Tomatina

Bunol - Valencia - Spain

World famous "La Tomatina" is a tomato festival held in Bunol, a little village near Valencia  in Spain. The rule is simple: participants throw tomatoes at each other (120 tons!) and are sprayed with thousands of litres of tomato coulis; a pure tomatoes fight for entertainment purposes.

La Tomatina is proof that you can have fun without hurting any animal but just spill the “blood “of  tomatoes. La Tomatina takes place on the last Wednesday of August every year in the town of Bunol near Valencia in Spain .

During your stay, don't miss the most beautiful beaches in Spain , the best hidden gems in Spain and the best destinations to visit in Spain .

Book your flights to Valencia (20 min by car), your accommodation in Valencia as well as your tours and activities in Valencia such as a " Valencia: Flamenco Show Ticket With Drink ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Valencia and your transfer .

  Where to stay: " Hotel Dimar " Situated in Valencia’s Cánovas Square.

When:  28th August 2024 .

18. Oktoberfest in Munich

Bavaria - Germany

Did you know that most of Oktoberfest takes place…in September? Recently brought under the world spotlight by stars and celebrities, the Oktoberfest is anything but the image one can think of. This event is an opportunity for Bavarians to carry on their traditions; purists come in traditional clothes, some will have been training for months to master the most complicated Bavarian dances, others will have spent days cooking hearty Bavarian dishes.

Of course, beer is the star of the show and you will enjoy the festival's many activities and the giant funfair. Surprisingly, few marquees are open access and you will have to organize yourself in advance.

Book your flights , your accommodation in Munich as well as your tours and activities in Bavaria such as a " Munich: Oktoberfest Ticket Tour, Lunch and Drinks " to immerse yourself in this incredible festival and have access to the best marquees.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Munich and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Motel One München Campus ".

When:   21st September– 6th October 2024 .

19. Riga Christmas Lights Trail 

From December 1st 2024 to February 5th 2025 hundreds of lights brighten the canalside of Riga city center, which is the biggest Christmas light trail in Latvia .

Be fascinated by the Christmas light trail this year in Riga ! See for yourself how these places transform with illuminations when you step into this winter wonderland. Take a walk through Opera Square, Bastejkalns, and Kronvalda park where you will experience and learn about different Latvian fairytales. The music that accompanies these tales and trails will create new memories to never forget. 

There is no better time to visit Riga than in this winter ! Why? Riga’s Christmas market in the very heart of Riga’s OId Town in Doma square is back and has a lot to offer to visitors.

What’s the most important criteria that makes the difference for Christmas markets? Mulled wine, aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and roasted almonds filling the air are in every city, but special Riga’s atmosphere and vibe is unique and unrepeatable, as well as cities architecture, cultural life, cuisine, and parks.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Riga and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Hilton Garden Inn ". Stay in the heart of Riga.

When:  From 1st December 2024 to 5th February 2025.

20. New Year's Eve in Marbella

Andalusia - Spain

For a sparkling, festive and sunny  New Year ,  Marbella  is the best choice; it has one of the largest concentrations of designer boutiques, haute-couture boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants,  5-star hotels , an ultra-trendy Marina and a beach among the  most beautiful beach in Spain ,.. so many good reasons to celebrate the  New Year in Marbella .

Film stars but also artisticocratic and royal families have made  Marbella  their pied-à-terre for holidays combining relaxation, sun, outdoor sport, shopping, parties and  beach.

The  finest hotels in Marbella  offer  New Year's Eve parties  including meals and dancing. You can also enjoy New Year's Eve party in Marbella night clubs.

Why celebrate New Year’ Eves in Marbella? Because there is nothing nicer than waking up on a New Year's sunny day near the sea, lying on a deckchair, enjoying a massage or a hammam for a detox after party.

Book your flights  to Malaga Airport (35 min by car),  your transfer ,  accommodation  and  tours and activities in Andalusia  such as a "Marbella: Guided Wine & Tapas Tour". 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Malaga Airport (35 min by car / taxi / uber). 

  Where to stay:  " Marbella Club Hotel - Golf Resort & Spa " a luxurious beachfront hotel set between Marbella and Puerto Banus.

When:  The 31st December 2024 .

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Famous Upcoming Events in Europe 2024 Month-By-Month

Are you planning for a vacation in Europe? Prepare for an exciting journey as we unveil the most anticipated events in Europe in 2024 happening month by month.

• Explore the anticipated sports events, including the UEFA European Football Championship and other international tournaments, to captivate European audiences in 2024.
• Dive into the rich tapestry of European arts and traditions with an overview of cultural festivals, celebrations, and artistic showcases that promise to make 2024 a vibrant year.

Europe is set to host a diverse range of exciting events in 2024. There will be something for everyone from sports championships to music festivals, art exhibitions, film festivals, and literary events. Visitors can experience the best of international sports, music, art, culture, and Carnivals in stunning European cities . These events in Europe will unite people worldwide, fostering community and celebration. The upcoming events offer unforgettable experiences and provide a platform for creativity and innovation.

This Article is Also Part of Festivals in Europe 2024

Events in Europe in January 2024

Tromsø international film festival (tromsø, norway) mon, jan 15, 2024 – sun, jan 21, 2024.

The Tromsø International Film Festival (TIFF) is held in Tromsø, Norway every January. The festival is one of the most important in Northern Europe and screens around 100 films from over 50 countries annually. The festival also includes several industry events, such as seminars and workshops. The festival is known for its focus on independent and experimental cinema.

The TIFF was founded in 1985 by a group of film enthusiasts. The festival quickly gained a reputation for its innovative programming and commitment to showcasing new and emerging filmmakers. The festival has also been praised for its beautiful location, making it a popular destination for filmmakers and film lovers worldwide.

The TIFF is an essential event for Tromsø and the Norwegian film industry. The festival helps promote Norwegian cinema to a broader audience and allows emerging filmmakers to showcase their work. The festival is also a significant economic event for the city, generating millions of NOK in revenue annually.

The 2024 edition of the TIFF will be held from January 19-28. The festival will screen diverse films worldwide, including feature films, documentaries, shorts, and experimental films. The festival will include several industry events, such as seminars and workshops.

The TIFF is a must-attend event for any film lover. The festival's innovative programming, commitment to showcasing new and emerging filmmakers, and beautiful location make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Europe Events in February 2024: Berlin International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany

The Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale, is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, held annually in Berlin, Germany. The festival showcases diverse films, from independent productions to major Hollywood releases, and attracts filmmakers, actors, and audiences worldwide. The festival occurs across various venues throughout the city, from historic movie theatres to modern cinema complexes. The event date will be on February 15-25, 2024 .

Berlin is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and iconic landmarks, making it the perfect host city for this world-renowned film festival. The Berlin International Film Festival offers film enthusiasts and industry professionals a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Read more about the best tourist attractions in Europe .

Events in Europe in March: Salzburg Festival in Salzburg, Austria 24 March - 10 April, 2024

The Salzburg Festival is one of the world's most prestigious music and performing arts festivals, held annually in Salzburg, Austria. The festival features a diverse range of performances, including opera, theatre, concerts, and dance, attracting performers and audiences from all over the world. The festival occurs in various venues throughout the city, including the historic Salzburg Cathedral and the modern Festspielhaus. The event will be from 24 March - 10 April 2024 .

Salzburg is known for its stunning alpine scenery, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, making it the perfect host city for this iconic festival. The Salzburg Festival offers music and performing arts enthusiasts a unique and unforgettable experience.

Events in Europe in March 2024: World Track and Field Championships in the United Kingdom

Dates: From March 1, 2024, to March 3, 2024

The World Track and Field Championships will be held in Glasgow, United Kingdom from March 1, 2024, to March 3, 2024. This prestigious event brings together the best athletes from across the globe to compete in various track and field events, including sprints, hurdles, middle-distance running, jumping, and throwing.

The World Athletics Championships (WAC) is an international athletics competition organized by World Athletics (WA). It is the premier international track and field event after the Olympic Games and is held every two years. The first WAC was held in 1983, and the most recent championships were held in Budapest, Hungary in 2023.

The WAC is a global event, with athletes from over 200 countries competing. The championships feature various track and field events, including sprints, hurdles, jumps, throws, relays, and walks. The competition is fierce, and the athletes who win gold medals are considered among the best in the world.

The WAC is a significant event for track and field and a popular spectator sport. The championships are televised worldwide, and they are a significant source of revenue for WA. The WAC is also an essential event for developing track and field, as it provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and compete against the best in the world.

The next WAC will be held in Tokyo, Japan in 2025. The championships are expected to be significant and will surely attract many spectators.

Events in Europe in April 2024

In the vibrant tapestry of Europe, the month of April unfolds as a captivating chapter marked by a plethora of diverse and culturally rich events. From the blooming tulip fields of the Netherlands to the spirited celebrations of Sant Jordi in Catalonia, April invites travelers and locals alike to immerse themselves in a kaleidoscope of experiences. The continent becomes a stage for various festivals, art exhibitions, and historical commemorations, offering a dynamic blend of traditions and contemporary expressions.

As spring breathes new life into the landscapes, Europe in April becomes a captivating canvas where the arts, nature, and heritage seamlessly converge, inviting individuals to partake in the festivities and witness the continent's cultural heartbeat. Explore the enticing array of April European events that showcase the richness and diversity of the region's cultural tapestry.

Music: Snowbombing Music Festival (Mon, Apr 8, 2024 – Sat, Apr 13, 2024), Mayrhofen, Austria.

Coachella (Netherlands, 13-15 April), Primavera Sound Barcelona (Spain, 30 April - 4 May).

Food & Drink: London Coffee Festival (UK, 11-14 April 2024), Tulip Festival in Keukenhof Gardens (Netherlands), International Cheese Festival in Bra

(Italy, 20-28 April).

Culture & History: Edinburgh International Festival (UK), St. George's Day celebrations across England, Seville Flamenco Biennal (Spain, 4-28 April).

Sports & Activities: Connecting Europe Days (Brussels, 2-5 April), Prague Marathon (Czech Republic, 21 April), Giro d'Italia cycling race (Italy, May 11-June 2).

Conferences & Trade Shows: World EPA Congress (Vienna, 30 March - 4 April), Hannover Messe (Germany, 22-26 April), Milan Fashion Week (Italy).

Art & Exhibitions: Venice Biennale (Italy, opened April 20), Van Gogh Museum exhibition in London (UK), Chocolate Easter eggs displays across Europe.

Europe Events in May 2024: Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France

The Cannes Film Festival, one of the world's most prestigious film festivals, is held annually in Cannes, France. On May 14-25, 2024, the festival showcases the latest films worldwide, ranging from independent productions to big-budget Hollywood movies.

The festival attracts celebrities, filmmakers, and film enthusiasts worldwide, providing a platform for networking and celebrating the art of cinema. Cannes is known for its stunning beaches, luxurious hotels, and glamorous atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for this world-renowned film festival. The Cannes Film Festival offers an unforgettable experience for anyone passionate about cinema.

Europe Events in May & November 2024: Venice Biennale in Venice, Italy

The Venice Biennale, one of the world's most prestigious art exhibitions, will be held in Venice, Italy, from Sat, May 20, 2024 – Sun, Nov 26, 2024 . The biennial event showcases the latest trends and innovations in contemporary art, featuring a diverse range of works from artists across the globe.

The exhibition takes place in various venues throughout the city, including the historic Giardini della Biennale and the Arsenale. Venice is known for its stunning canals, architecture, and rich cultural heritage, making it the perfect setting for this world-class art event. The Venice Biennale offers a unique and inspiring experience for art lovers and enthusiasts alike.

Europe Events in June 2024: UEFA Champions League Final in London, England

The final will be played on Saturday, 1 June 2024, at Wembley Stadium in London, England.

• Wembley Stadium is the largest stadium in the United Kingdom, with a capacity of 90,000.
• The 2024 final will be the third time that Wembley Stadium has hosted the UEFA Champions League final, after 2011 and 2013.
• The results of the 2023-2024 UEFA Champions League knockout rounds will determine the two teams competing in the final.
• The final will be broadcast live worldwide by television networks and streaming services.
• The final will kick off at 8:00 PM BST (3:00 PM EST).
• A team of referees from a single UEFA member association will officiate the match.
• The winning team will be awarded the UEFA Champions League trophy and a share of the prize money.
• The final is expected to be a major sporting event, with millions worldwide watching the match live.

Many things happen during the UEFA Champions League Final. Here are some of the most important events:

The match itself: This is the main event, of course. The two teams will play a 90-minute match, with two halves of 45 minutes each. If the match is tied at the end of regular time, there will be extra time, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary.

The pre-match ceremony: This is a short ceremony before the match. It usually includes a famous musician or band performance and a presentation of the teams to the crowd.

The half-time show  is a short performance that takes place at halftime. It usually includes a dance performance or a musical act.

The post-match ceremony: This is a short ceremony after the match. It usually includes the presentation of the UEFA Champions League trophy to the winning team and the presentation of individual awards to the players and coaches.

In addition to these main events, many other things happened during the UEFA Champions League Final. These include:

Fan activities: Fun activities often occur around the stadium before and after the match. These can include concerts, food trucks, and merchandise sales.

Media coverage: The UEFA Champions League Final is a major media event. There are often hundreds of journalists and photographers covering the match.

Security: There is a significant security presence at the UEFA Champions League Final. This ensures the safety of the players, fans, and officials.

Reasons why the 2024 UEFA Champions League Final is such a big event:

• It is the culmination of the UEFA Champions League season, the world's most prestigious club football competition.
• The final is often a close-fought contest between two of the best teams in Europe.
• The match is played at Wembley Stadium, one of the world's most iconic stadiums.
• The final is broadcast live worldwide, making it a global event.

Europe Events June 2024: Art Basel in Basel, Switzerland

Art Basel is one of the world's most prestigious art fairs, held annually in Basel, Switzerland. The fair showcases a diverse range of contemporary art, featuring works from established and emerging artists worldwide. The event date will be on 13 and 16 June 2024 .

The event occurs in the city's Messe Basel convention center, transforming into a stunning exhibition space. Basel is known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque old town, and vibrant cultural scene, making it the perfect setting for this world-class art fair. Art Basel promises a unique and inspiring experience for art collectors, enthusiasts, and industry professionals.

Events in Europe in July 2024

July in Europe is a fantastic time for all kinds of events, from music festivals and cultural celebrations to sporting spectacles and outdoor adventures. July in Europe unfolds as a spectacular tapestry of cultural richness and vibrant festivities, inviting travelers and locals alike to partake in a diverse array of events across the continent.

From the electrifying music scene at Tomorrowland in Belgium to the colorful revelry of San Fermín in Pamplona, July 2024 promises an exhilarating cultural journey. As the summer sun graces the landscapes, Europe becomes a dynamic stage for an eclectic mix of music festivals, art exhibitions, and historical celebrations. Whether savoring the culinary delights at Bastille Day festivities in France or witnessing the iconic Running of the Bulls in Spain, July European events offer a blend of tradition and contemporary excitement. Embrace the warm embrace of summer and explore the multifaceted cultural kaleidoscope that defines Europe in July 2024.

Music Festivals:

• Electronic: Tomorrowland (Belgium, July 19-21 & 26-28), Ultra Europe (Croatia, July 12-14), Exit Festival (Serbia, July 11-14).
• Rock & Pop: Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland, July 5-20), Rock am Ring/Park (Germany, July 14-17), Pohoda Festival (Slovakia, July 11-13).
• Folk & World: Avignon Festival (France, July 4-28), Roskilde Festival (Denmark, July 27-30), Galway International Arts Festival (Ireland, July 12-28).

Cultural Events and Celebrations:

• Festivals: La Tomatina (Spain, July 28), Bastille Day (France, July 14), Edinburgh Fringe Festival (UK, throughout July).
• Historical reenactments: Viking Festival in Ribe (Denmark, July 5-7), Medieval Market in Tallinn (Estonia, July 26-28).
• Theatre & Opera: Salzburg Festival (Austria, July 21-August 31), Glyndebourne Festival Opera (UK, June 16-August 25).

Sports and Outdoor Activities:

• Tour de France cycling race: Stages will be held in various European countries throughout July.
• Wimbledon Tennis Championships (UK, July 1-14).
• Festivals: Cowes Week Regatta (UK, July 27-August 4), La Grande Course (France, July 14-21), Avignon Festival Fringe (France, July 7-28).

Other Events in Europe:

• Fêtes des lumières: Light shows and festivities in Lyon (France) and Ghent (Belgium) throughout July.
• Art & Exhibitions: Documenta 16 art exhibition (Germany, June 18-September 23), Van Gogh Alive exhibition (various locations).

Events in Europe in August 2024

August in Europe summer is in full swing, and the continent comes alive with a vibrant array of events. In the vibrant mosaic of Europe, the month of August 2024 emerges as a thrilling tapestry woven with a myriad of diverse and culturally significant events. From the lively street festivals of Edinburgh during the iconic Fringe Festival to the sun-drenched beaches hosting music extravaganzas along the Mediterranean, August invites both locals and visitors to partake in an array of enriching experiences.

Throughout the continent, various cultural celebrations, music festivals, and historical commemorations come alive, creating a dynamic fusion of traditions and contemporary expressions. As the summer sun bathes the landscapes in warmth, Europe in August 2024 becomes a captivating playground for cultural exploration. Delve into the excitement of August European events, where the richness of heritage and the vibrancy of modern expressions seamlessly intertwine, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all.

• Electronic: Sziget Festival (Hungary, August 7-13), Creamfields (UK, August 24-25), Fusion Festival (Germany, August 22-25).
• Rock & Pop: Lollapalooza Berlin (Germany, August 25-26), Reading & Leeds Festivals (UK, August 23-25), Lowlands Festival (Netherlands, August 10-12).
• Jazz & Blues: Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland, July 20-August 20), Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival (UK, August 8-18), Copenhagen Jazz Festival (Denmark, August 6-11).

• Festivals: Venice Film Festival (Italy, August 28-September 7), Edinburgh Festival Fringe (UK, throughout August), La Mercè Festival (Spain, August 15-24).
• Historical reenactments: Palio di Siena (Italy, August 16 & September 2), Viking Festival in Hedeby (Germany, August 31-September 1).
• Folklore & Traditions: Gauklerfestival (Germany, August 23-25), Galway International Arts Festival (Ireland, July 12-28).

Outdoor Activities and Sports:

• Hiking & Trekking: Tour du Mont Blanc (France/Switzerland/Italy, throughout August), Dolomites High Route 1 & 2 (Italy, July-September).
• Cycling: Vuelta a España (Spain, August 24-September 15), Tour de l'Ain (France, August 14-18).
• Surfing & Water Sports: Biarritz Surf Festival (France, August 17-25), European Beach Volleyball Championships (various locations, August 1-18).

Other Events:

• Food & Wine: Edinburgh International Food & Drink Festival (UK, August 2-5), Bordeaux Wine Festival (France, July 23-28), Umbria Jazz Festival (Italy, July 12-September 1).
• Art & Exhibitions: Venice Biennale (Italy, open until November 24), Documenta 16 art exhibition (Germany, June 18-September 23).
• Light Shows: Ghent Festivities (Belgium, July 12-28), Lyon Festival of Lights (France, December 8-9).

Events in Europe in August 2024: Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Edinburgh, Scotland

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, often referred to as the Fringe, is the largest arts festival in the world, held annually in Edinburgh, Scotland. The festival features thousands of shows, ranging from theatre, comedy, dance, and music to spoken word, cabaret, and more. The festival dates will be on 02 – 26 August 2024 . The Fringe takes place across various venues throughout the city, from traditional theatres to pop-up performance spaces.

The festival attracts performers and audiences worldwide, providing a platform for creativity and innovation in the performing arts. Edinburgh is known for its historic landmarks, stunning scenery, and vibrant cultural scene, making it the perfect host city for this iconic festival.

Europe Events in September 2024: London Fashion Week in London, England

London Fashion Week is one of the most prestigious fashion events in the world, held annually in London, England. The event showcases top designers' latest collections, including established names and up-and-coming talent. The week-long event occurs in various venues throughout the city, including Somerset House and the British Fashion Council Show Space. The event will be on Friday, Sep 15, 2024, and Tuesday, Sep 19, 2024 .

London is known for its vibrant fashion scene, rich history, and iconic landmarks, and is one of the best shopping cities in Europe, making it the perfect host city for this world-renowned fashion event. London Fashion Week offers fashion lovers and industry professionals a unique and inspiring experience. 

Europe Events in October 2024: Amsterdam Dance Event in Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Amsterdam Dance Event, or ADE, is one of the world's largest electronic music festivals and conferences annually in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The event features diverse performances, including DJ sets, live acts, club nights, and a conference featuring panels, workshops, and networking opportunities for music industry professionals. The event will be on Wed, Oct 18, 2024 – Sun, Oct 22, 2024 .

The festival occurs across various venues throughout the city, from historic venues to modern club spaces. Amsterdam is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful canals, and rich cultural scene, making it the perfect host city for this iconic electronic music event. The Amsterdam Dance Event offers an unforgettable experience for electronic music fans and industry professionals.

Events in Europe in November 2024

November in Europe is a time for cozy vibes and festive cheer, with plenty of events to keep you entertained throughout the month. As Europe transitions into the enchanting embrace of autumn, November 2024 unfolds as a captivating chapter in the continent's cultural narrative. From the historic streets of Prague adorned with the magical glow of the Signal Light Festival to the culinary delights of Taste of London, November beckons both residents and travelers to immerse themselves in a tapestry of diverse events.

Throughout the month, Europe becomes a stage for a spectrum of experiences, from film festivals and art exhibitions to traditional ceremonies and innovative showcases. As the air carries the crisp scent of fall, November in Europe becomes a canvas where the old and the new converge, inviting individuals to witness the rich tapestry of the continent's cultural heritage. Explore the array of November European events, where traditions and contemporary expressions harmonize against the backdrop of autumn's beauty.

Festivals and Celebrations:

Christmas markets: These magical markets pop up all over Europe in November, offering festive decorations, delicious food, and unique gifts. Some of the most famous include Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London, and Weihnachtsmarkt in Vienna, Austria.

Christmas Markets in Europe

• Bonfire Night (UK, November 5th): Celebrate this historical event with fireworks displays, bonfires, and traditional food like toffee apples and baked potatoes.
• Martinsgans (Germany, November 11th): A traditional feast celebrating Saint Martin's Day, featuring roast goose, potato dumplings, and red cabbage.
• Thanksgiving (USA, November 28th): While not an official European holiday, many American communities in Europe host Thanksgiving dinners and celebrations.

Cultural Events:

• Black Friday (Europe-wide, November 29th): Shop for amazing deals on everything from clothing and electronics to travel and experiences.
• Fêtes des Lumières (Lyon, France, December 8th): The city of Lyon is illuminated with stunning light displays and projections for this annual festival.
• Christmas concerts: Get into the holiday spirit with festive concerts by choirs, orchestras, and other musical groups.
• Art exhibitions: Many museums and galleries have special exhibitions opening in November, covering a wide range of art and history.
• Shopping: Take advantage of the Black Friday sales and do some Christmas shopping in Europe's charming cities and towns.

Events in Europe in December 2024

December in Europe is a magical time, filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and a variety of events to celebrate the holidays and the end of the year. December in Europe transforms the continent into a festive wonderland, adorned with a tapestry of enchanting events that capture the spirit of the holiday season. From the magical Christmas markets of Vienna, where twinkling lights illuminate historic squares, to the vibrant Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh, December 2024 invites both locals and visitors to revel in the joyous atmosphere.

Throughout the month, Europe becomes a stage for a diverse range of events, including traditional winter festivals, classical concerts, and elaborate New Year's Eve festivities. As winter's chill settles over the landscapes, December offers a unique blend of cultural traditions and contemporary celebrations. Immerse yourself in the enchantment of December European events, where the warmth of the holiday spirit converges with the rich cultural heritage of the continent, creating memorable experiences for all who partake in the seasonal festivities.

Christmas Markets:

• These enchanting markets are a must-experience in Europe during December. Stroll through rows of wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, savor traditional holiday treats like gingerbread cookies and mulled wine, and find unique gifts for your loved ones. Some of the most famous Christmas markets include:
• Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany: This centuries-old market is known for its traditional wooden stalls, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious Lebkuchen gingerbread.
• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London: This festive wonderland features an ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel, a Christmas market, and plenty of rides and attractions.
• Weihnachtsmarkt in Vienna, Austria: Set against the backdrop of Vienna's stunning architecture, this market offers a charming atmosphere with traditional Austrian food, music, and crafts.

Festive Events and Celebrations:

• New Year's Eve: Ring in the New Year with spectacular fireworks displays in major cities like Paris, London, and Berlin. Many cities also host special parties and celebrations.
• Christmas concerts: Enjoy the sounds of the season with festive concerts by choirs, orchestras, and other musical groups. Many churches and cathedrals hold special Christmas services and concerts.
• Traditional Christmas meals: Experience the culinary delights of different European cultures with traditional Christmas feasts. In Germany, enjoy roast goose with potato dumplings and red cabbage. In Italy, savor a feast of seafood and pasta dishes. In France, indulge in a decadent meal of foie gras and roast turkey.
• Boxing Day shopping: Take advantage of post-Christmas sales and discounts on everything from clothing and electronics to travel and experiences.
• Winter sports: Hit the slopes and enjoy the winter wonderland in the Alps, Pyrenees, or Dolomites. Europe offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world.
• New Year's Day parades: Watch colorful and festive parades in cities like London and Edinburgh to celebrate the start of the new year.

Final Words!

Europe is home to some of the world's most prestigious and iconic events, ranging from film and music festivals to art fairs and fashion weeks. These events attract performers, artists, and audiences worldwide, providing a platform for creativity, innovation, and celebration of the arts. Whether you're a film enthusiast, music lover, art collector, or fashionista, there is something for everyone in Europe's vibrant cultural scene. From the glitz and glamour of Cannes to the innovative performances at the Edinburgh Fringe, these events offer a unique and unforgettable experience for all who attend.

THE 10 BEST Europe Events

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1. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

2. Oktoberfest

3. The Great Christmas Feast

4. Travelling Galaxy Exhibition

5. Newby Hall and Gardens

6. Nuremberg Christmas Market

7. Christmas Market on Rathausplatz

8. Christmas Market (Christkindelsmarik)

9. Driftwood Garden

10. Jesolo Sand Nativity

11. Wimbledon

12. Carnival of Venice

13. Stuttgart Christmas Market

14. Tomorrowland Belgium

15. Hamburger Dom

16. Carnival of Viareggio

17. Der Esslinger Mittelaltermarkt & Weihnachtsmarkt

18. Captains Bar

19. Frankfurt Christmas Market

20. Infiorate di Spello

21. Dresden Christmas Market

22. Cous Cous Fest

23. Christmas World

24. Palio di Siena

25. Spittelberg Christmas Market

26. The Fallas

27. Art Box Experience

28. Mercatino di Natale

29. Brussels Christmas Market

30. Bolzano Christmas Market

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9 Best European Summer Cultural Festivals

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Europe is filled with a diverse range of cultural festivals throughout the summer including music, theater, rock concerts, art, and dance. From running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, to folk dancing in Zagreb, Croatia, to a theater festival with over 50,000 performances, to the flamenco dance festival in Spain, you can spend an entire summer in Europe going from festival to festival.

We have gathered a list of the top festivals to attend but make sure you book your tickets and hotels online ahead of time.

Festival Dei Due Mondi (Festival Of The Two Worlds)

Spoleto, italy.

The Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of the Two Worlds) in Spoleto, Italy, which is in the Umbria region, is one of the premier summer music and opera festivals in all of Europe. The festival was started in 1958 by the Italian American music composer Gian Carlo Menotti, who had the vision to bring together European and American culture through music. Over the past 63 years, the festival has attracted international talents such as Al Pacino, director Luchino Visconti, Rudolf Nureyev, Ezra Pound, and Italian composer Nino Roti. Nowadays, the festival has expanded with theater, dance performances, art exhibitions, lectures, and roundtables about science.

The dates for the 2021 Festival dei Due Mondi are June 25 to July 11.

Pro Tip: If you can’t get to Italy for the festival, there’s a sister Spoleto Festival in Charleston, North Carolina, every summer with a similar type of program.

Zvonimir Atletic / Shutterstock

Zagreb Folk Festival

Zagreb, croatia.

Located in the historic city Zagreb in Croatia, the Zagreb Folk Festival is a celebration of the colorful folklore of the country. Events include traditional folk dancing in native costumes and folk musicians playing live music, concerts, art exhibitions, church choirs, and workshops in two locations, in the Upper Town and the main city square Trg bana J. Jelacica. Held in Zagreb since 1966, the festival was started between the two World Wars to strengthen the cultural importance of the local traditions.

The 5-day festival in 2021 will be held from July 21 to July 25.

Edinburghcitymom / Shutterstock

The Edinburgh Festival And The Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Edinburgh, scotland.

One of the most comprehensive and eclectic festivals in Europe is the Edinburgh Festival and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The idea of the festival was imagined by Sir Rudolf Bing and soprano Audrey Midmay in 1942 in the midst of WWII, as most theaters and music venues were decimated by the war or taken over by the Nazis. Edinburgh was still relatively safe and untouched and had a good number of cultural centers. Now in its 79th year, the festival still draws the top international talent.

In tandem with the Edinburgh Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe was established in 1947 as a less formal alternative to the main festival. The Festival Fringe is now the biggest theater festival in the world, with an astounding 317 theaters and venues, offering 55,000 performances of 3,548 different shows packed into the compact city. Every nook and cranny of the city is a performance, and you can see shows from morning till late night. I remember attending the festival in 1994, and in one day, I saw five shows, beginning at 10 a.m. and finishing past midnight, which was a blast.

The variety of shows at the Fringe Festival is almost endless, and categories include comedy, one-man shows, music, dance, spoken word, circus acts, cabaret, musicals, children’s shows, and exhibitions. Many shows and performers from the festival have gone on to have international success with moves of their shows to the West End theater of London and Broadway, including Phoebe Waller-Bridge, whose smash hit TV show Fleabag started at the festival as a one-woman show.

Both festivals coincide during the last three weeks of August.

Sanfermin Festiva

Pamplona, spain.

If you aren’t adventurous enough to literally run with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, have no worries, there are plenty of other fun festivities. The running of the bulls is just one exciting activity during the annual 9-day Sanfermin Festival at the beginning of July. The first night of the celebration starts with fireworks, while the townspeople sing the well-known song Pobre de mi at the end. On the following days is a competition of rural sports at the Plaza de los Fueros and includes stone lifting, woodcutting, hay bale lifting, and the jai lai ball game. One of the most important events is the Saint Fermin procession, where locals march through the city streets of Old Pamplona with a 15th-century statue of Saint Fermin accompanied by dancers, street performers, and the mayor of the city. The Riau-Riau is a big, unofficial event where people dance the Austrian waltz in the streets. Daily events include the running of the bulls, where hundreds of people try and stay in front of a pack of six bulls on a half-mile course through the streets of Old Pamplona, a parade of 150 big heads and giants, some measuring 13 feet high, with folk music played, nightly fireworks, and daily bull fights.

Raggedstone / Shutterstock

Glastonbury Festival

Somerset, england.

Taking place in the lush English countryside county of Somerset, the Glastonbury Festival is a 5-day event focusing mostly on contemporary British culture. The festival is attended by over 200,000 people and hosts a vast variety of entertainment, including dance, comedy, theatre, circus, and cabaret. There’s also a major pop and rock concert stage with some of the biggest names in music appearing. Past performances and music groups have included Led Zeppelin, Jay-Z, Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, The Cure, Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, and David Bowie. Many of the music events have been filmed for television and are extensively covered by the media.

The Corso Of Lavender

Digne-les-bains, france.

Celebrating the blooming of the iconic lavender fields of France , The Lavender Festival in the upper part of Provence does a bang-up job of celebrating. Started in 1929, it was the first festival to promote lavender production in the region. The action takes place for five days, from the end of July till the beginning of August, primetime for the lavender. Events include a parade with floats and residents in native costumes, a dazzling fireworks show, an international folk dance event, and a grand ball in the town square, Place General de Gaulle. Thousands of lavender sachets are handed out to festival attendees. Digne-les-Bains is also known for its architecture, art museums, botanical gardens, and natural springs, which have healed the sick for hundreds of years.

leonov.o / Shutterstock

Flamenco Fairs

Andalusia, spain.

The Spanish take their flamenco so seriously, they have a series of flamenco fairs in the heart of the flamenco region, Andalusia. The events run from June till September, and most of the festivals are held in the town squares or open fields at night, lasting until the wee hours of the morning. Granada, Malaga, Ronda, Seville, Torremolinos, Jerez de la Frontera and Alora are where the major festivals take place. The festivals focus mainly on the very traditional flamenco performances, which consist of a dancer, guitarist, and singer.

Ghent Festival

Ghent, belgium.

Set in the canal-based city of Ghent in the Flemish region of Belgium, the Ghent Festival is a lively, 10-day music and theater festival taking place from mid to end of July. Events and performances include jazz music and singers; pop, rock, techno, blues, and world music concerts and performances; dances and balls; stand-up comedy, circus acts, puppet shows, and poetry readings and slams; along with street buskers and performers. The Ghent Festival is the third-largest in Europe, attracting over 200,000 people annually. For 2021, the Ghent Festival dates are July 16 to 25.

Migel / Shutterstock

Tomatina Festival

Bunol, spain.

The world’s biggest food fight takes place in a small town, approximately 20 miles west of Valencia. Every year on the last Wednesday of August, starting at 11 a.m., townspeople and visitors throw tomatoes at each other until 1 p.m., when a cannon is fired to signal the end of the festival. If the food fight is not your idea of fun, you can participate in a bevy of other activities the week before the food fight, such as a paella-making contest, live music, fireworks, and dancing. This year the Tomatina Festival takes place on Wednesday, August 25.

Related Reading:

• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: 9 Tips For A Fantastic Experience
• 7 Best Dogwood Festivals In The U.S.
• The Best Renaissance Fairs In The U.S.

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

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Booked your last-minute flights to Europe? We've got plenty of inspiration for things to do. From unmissable summer festivals to huge sporting events, there are countless activities for every taste and budget. Here are our highlights.

Summer festivals in Europe

Ghent Festival in Ghent, Belgium

July 14 - 23, 2023

For 175 years revellers have flocked to the historic Belgian city of Ghent to participate in one of the biggest cultural festivals in Europe.

Sziget Festival in Budapest, Hungary

August 10 - 15, 2023

​Enjoy a whole week of music, art, and friendly faces from all around the world on the ‘Island of Freedom’ in Budapest, Hungary.

Notting Hill Carnival in London, England

August 26 - 28, 2023

During the last weekend of August, colorful costumes and floats fill the streets of Notting Hill to celebrate the culture of London's Afro-Caribbean communities. The result is one of the biggest street festivals in the world!

Summer sporting events in Europe

Wimbledon in London, England

June 3- July  16, 2023

The world’s oldest tennis tournament is a must-visit for sports fans. Watch the action unfold on the grass courts while you eat strawberries and cream.

Palio di Siena in Siena, Italy

July 2 & August 16, 2023

Colorful decorations and a carnival atmosphere take over the city of Siena for this famous historical horse race which dates back to 1644. This event happens  twice a year, on July 2nd & August 16th .

Tour de France from Bilbao, Spain to Paris, France

July 1 - 23, 2023

A proud French institution, this epic bicycle race speeds across France in 21 stages. Pick a scenic point on the route and cheer the riders on!

See Europe's top attractions

Never climbed the Eiffel Tower? Always wanted to visit the Vatican? Tick off those life goals this summer with our guide to  the most popular attractions in Europe . Find out how to skip the lines and get the best prices.

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Guide to events in Europe in 2023

We are closing a year in which the reactivation of the tourism sector has been consolidated. With the return to normality, there is a desire to get back to pending trips and enjoy tourism without restrictions. So we have compiled a list of the best events that will take place in Europe in 2023.

• Grab your mask and experience the Carnival of Venice in Italy. 4th of February to 21st of February
• Have a pint, wear your shamrocks, and watch the parade on St Patrick’s Day in Ireland. 17th of March
• Wake up and smell the roses at Keukenhof: Amsterdam’s Tulip & Flower Festival in the Netherlands. 1st of April to 30th of April

• Get some gardening tips and tricks at the Chelsea Flower Show in London, England. 22nd of May to Saturday 27th of May
• Have a bop to some techno at Ultra-Europe in Split, Croatia. July of 7th to July of 9th
• Experience some authentic folk music at the Zagreb Folk Festival in Croatia. Mid-July
• Listen to some incredible folk music artists from across the UK at Cambridge Folk Festival in England. 27th of July to 30th of July
• Join the “playground for beer connoisseurs” at the Oktoberfest in Munich. 16th of September to 3rd of October.

• Enjoy music and culture at Sziget Festival in Hungary. 10th of August to 15th of August
• Soak up art, satire, and tradition at Las Fallas de Valencia in Spain. 26th of February 
• Absorb some art at Art Basel in New York, Hong Kong, Miami Beach, and virtual events. 15th of June to 18th of June
• Participate in “The World’s Biggest Food Fight” at La Tomatina, Spain. 24th of August
• Experience street food and craft beer at the Craft Beer Festival, Helsinki, Finland. 28th of July to 29th of July

• Immerse yourself in the art of light at Festival of Lights, Berlin, Germany. 6th of October to 15th of October
• Taste the best sweets in Italy at The Festival of Torrone in Cremona. 13th of November to 21st of November
• Light up your life at GLOW, Eindhoven in the Netherlands. 11th of November to 18th of November
• Tantalize your taste buds at Csaba Sausage Festival in Hungary, 2nd of October to 4th of October
•  Sip on some delicious grapes at Budapest International Wine Festival, Hungary. 7th of September to 10th of September

• Witness the Cherry blossoms blooming at Mount Yoshino, Japan. Mid-March.
• Celebrate Diwali in Jaipur, India. November 12th.

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Festivals, events: best places to visit in Europe in April

📌 Read in / Lire en : Français ( French )

Where to go in April in Europe? Spring has come (we hope!), the days are now longer. Yet it’s not so simple to choose your April destination in Europe because there’s just too much choice, and you need to do a bit of research. For instance, if you go to Biarritz, you can have a full week of magnificent weather or… seven days of rain. So if you’re looking for sunny places, play it safe and choose the Mediterranean countries. Generally speaking, though, April is a great month to go on a trip because in many European countries, there are Easter holidays. Without further ado, here is our selection of the best April destinations in Europe if you’re in for some festivals and gigs.

💧 Feet in the water . Are you looking for a place to swim in Europe in April? We’ve found six .

In Braga for Holy Week | Portugal

Where?  Braga, north of Porto, in northern Portugal ( map )

When?  From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday

Holy  Week in Braga  is the largest and most famous of all in Portugal, and the most important tourist and religious event in the city of Braga. It is estimated that around 100,000 people attend the main processions (for recommended itineraries, see the  official website ). This Holy Week harmoniously combines elements of liturgy and popular piety, ancient traditions and innovations. Since November 2011, this event has been officially declared to be “of tourist interest”.

🏨  Find a cheap hotel in Braga

In Barcelona for the Feast of Sant Jordi | Spain

Where?  Barcelona, ​​Catalonia ( map )

When?  April 23, Saint George’s Day

Sant Jordi, or Saint George, is the patron saint of Aragon, Valencia, the Balearic Islands and Catalonia. And in the capital of the latter region (📖 read our guide ), the festivities are particularly grand. The tradition is that, each year, we offer a rose, and since the 1920s, a book. A tradition that prompted UNESCO, in 1995, to declare April 23, International Book and Copyright Day. On this day, Barcelona becomes a gigantic open-air bookshop. If the sun is out, it’s the perfect time for a cultural stroll through the city… with a rose in your hand, of course.

In Seville for the Feria | Spain

Where?  Seville, the capital of Andalusia ( map )

When?  For dates, check out the Seville Town Hall website

A truly traditional festival, the Feria de Sevilla dates back to the 1850s, when a Catalan and a Basque proposed a project of festivities to the Sevillian cattle market authorities. But it’s not until 1945 and the end of the Second World War that the Feria starts to resemble the event we know today. On the menu: bullfighting shows, tastings of regional products in the  casetas , large striped canvas tents, and Sevillian dances, of course. The entry to where festivities are held is decorated with thousands of lights. The Feria is an essential moment of the year for all the locals.

In Paris for the marathon | France

Where?  Paris, the capital of France (need a map?)

When?  For dates, see  the official marathon website

Are you a runner? Great! Why not visit one of the most beautiful cities in the world by running through its streets with no cars in view? Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? Well it requires some work, or better say workout, because you’d be taking part in a marathon. Many amateur sportsmen come to enjoy the city and have incredible choice of itinerary in the heart of the French capital: Champs-Elysées, banks of the Seine, Bois de Boulogne, Bois de Vincennes. Tourists from all over the world have understood that the experience is unique. Each year, nearly 23,000 foreigners, or around 40% of the peloton, take part in the event.

🛎️ A moment of peace in Paris . Visiting the capital can be exhausting. Luckily for you, we’ve found hotels with a relaxing garden .

In Edinburgh for the Beltane Fire Festival | UK

Where?  Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland ( map )

When?  On the night of April 30 to May 1

Since the end of the 1980s, these festivities ( official site ) continue an old Celtic tradition of celebrating the arrival of spring. It all happens on Calton Hill, on the night of April 30 to May 1 (📖 read our guide on Edinburgh ). The procession led by the Queen of May to the sound of the drums starts at the National Monument. When the procession ends, a huge bonfire is lit. Traditional Celtic music and theatrical performances accompany the whole thing. A now unmissable event in the life of Edinburgh . By the way, don’t miss our video on the most magical places in Scotland .

In Speyside for the Whiskey Spirit Festival | UK

Where?  Throughout Speyside, North East region of Scotland ( map )

When?  For dates, see  the official festival website

Created in 1999, this festival is entirely dedicated to the Scottish national drink, the whiskey. Speyside is in fact the largest whiskey-producing region in Scotland. With a program of more than 700 whiskey-inspired events over six days, it has become a must-see global event for all whiskey enthusiasts. Events take place all over Speyside, in distilleries, bars, castles and town squares. Go to the festival website to discover all your options.

In Brussels for the International Fantastic Film Festival | Belgium

Where?  Brussels, the capital of Belgium

When?  For the dates, check out  the official website of the event

Here is another European destination idea for a trip in April. Since 1983, Brussels hosts a film festival dedicated to thrillers, fantasy and horror films. For the past decade, the event has been at the Palace of Fine Arts (or Bozar). Nearly 150 films are screened in preview during the festival, accompanied by numerous street entertainments, exhibitions and even a vampire ball. 

In Zurich for the Spring Festival | Switzerland

Where?  Zurich, northern Switzerland ( map )

When?  Every third Monday in April

This celebration is more than a century old. The Sechseläuten (“Six o’clock bells”) have been celebrated in their current form since 1904. The festival takes place on the third Monday in April. It consists of several events, including a children’s costume procession on Sunday and the procession of corporations on Monday. The highlight of the festival is the “cremation” of a Winter mascot called the Böögg, a kind of snowman with firecrackers. A beautiful festive moment and a highlight of the year in Zurich.

In Florence for the Scoppio del Carro | Italy

Where?  Florence, the capital of Tuscany, in northern Italy ( map )

When?  Easter day

The Scoppio del Carro (“Explosion of the chariot”) is a folkloric event stemming from a Christian tradition dating from the first crusade. Its purpose was to deliver the Holy Sepulcher from the “unfaithful”. It is celebrated on Easter Sunday with a procession that winds through the city, preceded by a cart filled with fireworks, drawn by white oxen. Its destination: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, where, at the end of the mass, the archbishop lights a rocket in the shape of a dove which sets off the fireworks, crashing into the carriage. Quite an impressive thing to see.

In Vienna for the Spring Festival | Austria

Where?  Vienna, the capital of Austria ( map )

When?  For dates, go  to the town hall website

It is a classical music festival, founded in 1992, which attracts thousands of music enthusiasts each year. In the program: over 60 concerts and the works of famous Viennese musicians such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn, Christoph Willibald Gluck and Johann Bach. Every year, the Vienna Spring Festival takes place for over a month starting in April and ending in the third week of May.

Our selection of best places to visit in Europe in April is now complete. But maybe you have other suggestions? Do not hesitate to let us know in the comments !

Destination(s) Europe

Contenu rédigé par les blogueurs de la rédaction | Article by the Editorial Staff

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65 Best Tourism Industry Events & Travel Conferences 2024/25

Looking for the top travel conferences 2024 has to offer? If you’re working in the tourism industry and you haven’t booked a ticket to one of the many events, what are you waiting for? Not only are these events an excuse to get out of the office and network with like-minded people, but they’re also great opportunities to learn more about travel and tourism.

Travel conferences are great for making new deals, discovering up-and-coming innovations, learning new skills, or just some good old networking. And there are some really exciting travel and tourism conferences in 2024 that exemplify the importance of travel .

We’ve put together this comprehensive list of conferences happening all over the world in the next year. Have a look at which ones you don’t want to miss and start planning your trip now.

Best Travel Industry Conferences 2024/25 by Month

January: Fitur – International Tourism Trade Fair

February: Travel & Adventure Show

March: B Travel Trade Show

April: World Travel Market

May: Tbex San Sebastian Spain

June: ITT Conference

July: Web in Travel (WIT)l Conference

August: Global Business Travel Association Conference

September: World Youth and Student Travel Conference

October: TBEX Africa

November: The Phocuswright Conference

December: International Luxury Travel Market – Worldwide

Fitur — International Tourism Trade Fair

Dates: 24 – 28 January 2024

Location: Madrid, Spain

Fitur is held every year in Madrid. It is one of the biggest tourism fairs in the world and an ideal gateway to Latin American markets. Fitur draws an international crowd of tourism professionals and travellers alike. It provides a platform to develop strategies for consumer demand and communication.

The first three days of the conference are for trade visitors only, with doors opening to the public on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can use this conference to network with other tourism professionals and travellers, as well as gain new insights and knowledge in the industry.

Find more info here

Matka — Nordic Travel Fair

Dates: 19 – 21 January 2024

Location: Helsinki, Finland

Being the largest travel conference in Northern Europe and the Baltic Region, Matka attracts over 1000 exhibitors annually. These exhibitors travel to Finland from more than 80 different countries, allowing for a diverse crowd. The conference is open to the public and trade buyers, with two days solely dedicated to the professionals.

The main aim behind Matka is for tourism trade professionals to learn about new products and services. As well as make valuable connections, and gather information on the ever-moving innovations of the travel industry.

Travel & Adventure Show

Dates: 13 – 14 January 2024

Location: Chicago, USA

Dates: 20 – 21 January 2024

Location: Denver, USA

Dates: 27 – 28 January 2024

Location: New York, USA

Dates: 3 – 4 February 2024

Location: Los Angeles, USA

Dates: 17 – 18 February 2024

Location: Phoenix, USA

Dates: 24 – 25 February 2024

Location: Washington DC, USA

Dates: 9 – 10 March 2024

Location: Atlanta, USA

Dates: 16 – 17 March 2024

Location: San Francisco, USA

Dates: 23 – 24 March 2024

Location: Dallas, USA

The Travel and Adventure Shows are a series of exhibits that take place across the USA. So American visitors have the option to catch the business travel conferences closest to them.

Discover new travel destinations across the globe, and take the chance to rub shoulders with some big travel celeb names. These travel events bring tourism businesses and the public together.

Dates: 19 – 21 February 2024

Location: Melbourne, Australia

This is the Asia Pacific region’s leading meetings and event industry trade conference. Decision-makers in the event industry engage with each other during this three-day event to share, connect, and do business.

The 2024 AIME is preparing to be one of their biggest yet as they celebrate their 30th birthday. They expect to host 400 buyers and 2000 visitors from around the world, making it a business tourism conference of 2024 you won’t want to miss.

Business Travel Show

Dates: 28 – 29 June 2024

Location: London, England

The largest business travel conference in Europe will be back in 2024. This conference is very business-oriented, so it’s the perfect place to find suppliers and network.

It also offers the opportunity to grow your business knowledge. This is the type of travel industry networking event that will challenge you and teach you to innovate and grow.

Travel Technology Europe

Despite only lasting two days, this is one of the top travel tech conferences in 2024. The event draws in over 5000 attendees and more than 30 conference sessions. It’s focused on technological development in our ever-growing industry.

Travel professionals looking for technological solutions to the industry’s current problems can find all the latest findings at this conference. It’s a gathering place of refreshing ideas and exciting opportunities.

Dates: 5 – 7 March 2024

Location: Oman

The ITB conference is the perfect place for B2B travel trading and gives visitors a taste of future travel and tourism trends. From panel discussions to keynote speakers, there is no better place to get an inside scoop on the year’s upcoming trends.

The three-day conference is exciting and informative, a great way to get exposure to the respective markets and the ideas that are shaping them.

Women’s Travel Fest

Dates: 3 – 5 March 2024

The Women’s Travel Fest is a conference just for ladies who love travelling. It’s been growing since 2013 and has become the largest women-in-travel summit. Join more than 30 amazing female speakers and network with other like-minded women.

This conference is an incredible opportunity to make good connections and upskill in all the right areas. The aim of this travel convention in 2024 is to connect, support, and inspire women to travel the world safely. It is undoubtedly one of the best tourism fairs in the world for solo female travellers.

Web in Travel (WiT)

Date: 5 – 6 July 2024

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Date: 27 July 2024

Location: Penang, Malaysia

Date: 2 – 4 October 2024

Location: Singapore

Date: 2 November 2024

Location: Seoul, South Korea

For anyone interested in travel technology, distribution, and marketing, this conference will bring it all into one room. Join the masses as you get the opportunity to meet with others in the travel-tech and marketing space and gain new insights into the industry.

While the event occurs in several live locations throughout the year, it’s also one of the few travel technology conferences offering a virtual space. So you can connect with travel and marketing gurus from across the world.

Select Traveller Conference

Dates: 17 – 19 March 2024

Location: Buffalo Niagara, New York

This conference aims to boost the relationship between travel clubs and travel loyalty programs. If you are in the industry and hoping to increase your club membership or add value to your loyalty program, this is the place to be.

B Travel Trade Show

Dates: 15 – 17 March 2024

Location: Barcelona, Spain

The tourism trade show is a great all-around travel trade fair. You’ll learn a lot, be introduced to world-class products and ideas, and socialise with industry leaders. It’s Southern Europe’s biggest travel event, with over 24,000 visitors annually, so expect a crowd.

Travel Technology Initiative

Dates: 20 March 2024

TTI continues to establish and maintain technology standards within the travel industry. This conference is the main event of the year, where all the big travel tech names come together. Learn about the technological trends that will affect your business and the greater travel industry.

Travel and Words

Dates: 12 – 14 November 2024

Location: Missoula, Montana

This is a conference built on passion and voluntary work. The Travel and Words event is a great place for travel bloggers , writers, and destination marketers to get together. Here, they can discuss the future of travel marketing in media and print.

Its focus is on freelance travel writers in the Northwest, making it ideal for exposure to potential new markets.

International Luxury Travel Market – Worldwide

Dates: 19 – 22 June 2024

Location: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Dates: 18 – 21 September 2024

Location: Baha Mar, The Bahamas

Dates: 4 – 7 December 2024

Location: Cannes, France

Dates: 7 – 10 May 2024

Location: São Paulo, Brazil

The ILTM conferences showcase the ultimate luxury travel brands to handpicked travel advisors in different regions. It is here that luxury and travel combine to display fantastic holiday opportunities in each country.

Simply put, it’s one of the best international travel events of the year for luxury marketers and business owners.

World Trade Market

Dates: 6 – 8 November 2024

Dates: 2 – 4 April 2024

Dates: 10 – 12 April 2024

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Dates: 6 – 9 May 2024

Location: Dubai, UAE

WTM hosts thousands of travel professionals in multiple locations each year.

The Latin America WTM showcases the best of Latin America to the rest of the world. Travel agencies, service providers, and travellers themselves all congregate together to see the best of Latin American Tourism.

WTM Africa does much the same, except for the African Continent. All tourism industry people, from hotel owners to tour guides and everyone in between, will meet under one roof to share and expand their network and knowledge.

WTM London celebrated 40 years in 2020 and will host many travel and tourism professionals in 2024. Here, you can connect and mingle with the industry’s head runners, as well as learn more about the world of travel and tourism.

International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association Global Convention

Dates: 4 – 7 October 2024

Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico

The IGLTA tourism convention exists to connect the LGBTQ+ community with gay-friendly travel and tourism brands, suppliers, and buyers. There are interesting educational workshops and numerous networking receptions for all attendees.

IGLTA also runs events around the world for LGBTQ+ travellers and promotes equality and safety within the tourism industry.

Skift Forum

Dates: 26 – 28 September 2024

Dates: 12 – 14 December 2024

The Skift Global Forum 2024 provides a space for innovative leaders in travel and tourism to come together and share, gain, and develop new ideas. With research-driven actionable insights, amazing speakers, and an excellent opportunity to network, it’s one of our favourite travel marketing conferences in 2024.

Women in Travel Summit

Dates: 12 – 14 April 2024

Location: Salt Lake City, USA

This is a wonderful conference for women in the travel and tourism industry. There will be brands, influencers, and creators.

Visitors can attend workshops and talks on travel directed specifically to the ladies. It’s A great opportunity for travel writers and influencers who want to expand their monetization strategies and learn from others.

Africa’s Travel Indaba

Dates: 9 – 11 May 2024

Location: Durban, South Africa

Africa’s tourism and travel industry are showcased well at this annual event, with exhibitor booths for travel services and product suppliers. Buyers, media, and the public can enjoy a first-row seat to the best that Africa has to offer.

This conference is geared more towards businesses (like tour operators and travel agents) than travel writers.

Digital Travel Summit 2024

Dates: 12 – 13 September 2024

Location: South Carolina, USA

One of the best tourism conferences for travel executives, Digital Travel, caters to their niche perfectly. With big keynotes and small face-to-face discussions around customer engagement and personalization, you’re bound to come away with creative new strategies to grow your business.

We Are Africa

Enjoy the luxurious side of African tourism as this event hosts both an African and International audience. It focuses on rebranding Africa as a top luxury destination with exciting investments and lavish products.

Tourism & Leisure Studies Conference

Dates: 14 – 16 June 2024

Location: Granada, Spain

This conference offers a space for travel industry professionals to discuss matters within the industry. Past, current, and future trends, issues, and innovations are presented and debated with like-minded individuals.

This is a great space for those looking to change their business model and adapt to relevant tourism in the new decade.

IPW Conference

Dates: 3 – 7 May 2024

IPW is where US travel exhibitors connect with travel buyers and media from more than 70 countries.

This is one of the best tourism events of 2024 that showcases products and builds relationships. It’s a national showcase of what America has to offer and brings in a great deal of tourism to the country.

Global Business Travel Association

Dates: 13 – 15 August 2024

Location: Toronto, Canada

Dates: 22 – 24 April 2024

Visit Canada’s largest conference for business travel and management professionals. As it attracts over 900 attendees, the event is a fantastic way for travel innovators to showcase their latest products and services to industry professionals.

It’s comparatively small in scale to other travel events of 2024, making it best for networking.

Keyframe 23 by Traverse

Dates: 13 – 16 April 2024

Location: Malta

This travel conference is aimed at bloggers, influencers, YouTubers, and other content creators. The vibrant festival combines travel and technological innovation. Digital content creators from around the world will gather to learn, progress, and develop new ways to show off the world of travel.

ITT Conference

Dates: 5 – 7 June 2024

Location: Doha, Qatar

The Institution of Travel and Tourism conference is held each year to provide a space for all those in the tourism industry to discuss and share.

You can find guidelines on how to be a professional in the industry, as well as support and advice on your travel career. You can also enjoy some networking with others in the industry.

Future Travel Experience

Dates: 19 – 21 September 2024

Location: California, USA

Dates: 8 – 9 November 2024

Learn more about the future of travel and hear from hundreds of airline and hotel representatives. Whether you attend the global travel industry event, the Asian event, or both – there is much to learn and many faces to network with.

As the name suggests, it is all about forward-moving tech and industry.

Digital Travel Summit EU

Date: 15 – 16 November 2024

All things digital and travel combine perfectly in this two-day event held in London. Along with industry-leading speakers, there are workshops, presentations, and small group sessions. There are also over 400 other digital travel professionals to network with.

Global Travel Marketplace

Date: 18 – 20 July 2024

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

This travel conference is an appointment-only event connecting influential travel advisors with travel suppliers. It’s small-scale and tends to lead to many exciting new business deals.

TECNZ Tourism Conference

Dates: 8 –11 August 2024

Location: Rotorua, New Zealand

TECNZ Tourism Conference is for anyone interested in making partners and learning about New Zealand’s tourism innovations and trends.

Inbound 2024

Dates: 5 – 8 September 2024

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Inbound is a yearly conference where big ideas are shared and expanded. It’s all about actionable strategies for growth and improvement. And with nightly parties, you’re likely to make good friends with your new connections.

Massive and exciting, it can be a little daunting. But there’s a surprising opportunity to make close connections and brainstorm your niche challenges.

Travel Writers and Photographers Conference

Dates: 10 – 13 August 2024

Location: Corte Madera, California

More niche than most options on our list, this conference is the perfect place for all travel writers and photographers to come together and expand their knowledge and skills.

Hosted by Book Passage, there is a world of knowledge to be shared over the 3-day event. With workshops, panels, and evening activities, you’ll come away with actionable insights and a lot of new contacts.

PATA Travel Mart

Dates: 4 – 6 October 2024

Location: New Delhi, India

The Pacific Asia Travel Association hosts the PATA travel mart each year. The role of PATA in tourism is essential, allowing sellers, buyers, and other industry professionals in the Asia-Pacific region to meet, greet, and network.

There is also a public day when traders can meet visitors and exhibit their products.

Travel Mart Latin America

Dates: 20 – 22 September 2024

Location: TBD

This is a long-standing conference showcasing Latin American tourism. It’s a great place for tour operators, wholesalers, meeting planners, and incentive companies to meet and share their businesses.

Travel Mart is also an expo of all travel and tourism opportunities in Central and South America.

World Youth and Student Travel Conference

Dates: 12 – 15 September 2024

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

This conference is a must for professionals who work in youth and student travel. It hosts over 150 buyers, represents 100 countries, and offers workshops and networking events aplenty, making it a conference worth your time.

Vestnorden Travel Mart 2024

Dates: 17 – 18 October 2024

Location: Reykjavik, Iceland

This is an extremely important trade show for the North Atlantic region. It allows B2B trading and networking for all travel professionals in and around Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroes Islands.

TBEX Africa, North America, and Europe

Dates: 17 – 20 July 2024

Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Dates: 28 – 31 May 2024

Location: San Sebastian, Spain

TBEX has quickly become the largest conference and networking event for content creators, travel brands, and industry professionals. Partnering with fantastic destinations across the globe and attracting hundreds of delegates each year. This is a great place to network and do business.

It’s one of the best travel and tourism conferences in 2024, with the fantastic convention occurring in Africa, North America, and Europe.

Luxury Travel Advisors Ultra Summit

Dates: 20 – 22 June 2024

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona

This is a great international tourism conference for travel agents to attend to network with suppliers and learn more about the industry. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their businesses and what they offer.

TTG Travel Experience

Dates: 11 – 13 October 2024

Location: Remini, Italy

Anyone looking for a gateway to the Italian travel market should attend the TTG conference. With over 130 countries being represented, this is considered the largest B2B trade conference in Italy.

International Tourism Film Festival

Dates: 24 – 27 October 2024

Location: Caldas Da Rainha, Portugal

This unique event brings travel filmmakers and businesses together, showcasing industry greats and newcomers alike. It’s not a travel conference we all need to attend, but if you have a special talent for promotional travel films or are looking for someone who does, check it out.

GBTA + Conference 2024

Dates: 14 – 16 November 2024

Location: Hamburg, Germany

It’s one of the top business travel conferences in 2024 for B2B exposure. You’ll learn about the latest trends in tourism and make valuable new connections.

Phocuswright Conference

Dates: 13 – 16 November 2024

This is a great place for travel leaders and influencers to meet and discuss the latest innovations in the travel and tourism industry.

Top Travel and Tourism Conferences 2024/25

2024 is an exciting year for travel, with new solutions and innovations constantly breaking ground and a global public itching to explore.

Are you planning to attend any of these conferences? You may just see our team at a few of them too! So maybe, see you there.

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The Best Places to Go in Europe in 2024

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

In considering the best places to go in Europe in 2024, we asked our expert contributors to nominate the destinations that are on the up—either because of a flock of hotel openings, perhaps, murmurings of Michelin arrivals, shiny new museums, or a concerted conservation effort taking root. Across the continent, we heard about a first-time sports events in Italy ; astonishing nature and new glampsites in Scandinavia ; and an unexpected surf scene in France with heightening buzz. There are also classic Greek escapes, which are easier to reach than ever before, and Hungarian cities evolving wholesale in time for major anniversaries.

What follows is an edit of Europe's countries, regions, cities, and neighborhoods that are worthy of your time and attention in 2024—all thoughtfully selected by our editors at Condé Nast Traveller UK and Spain . It's just a fraction of what Europe has on deck in the year ahead, but it's, we feel, the best place to start. Happy travels.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Places to Go in Europe

Antwerp, belgium.

Go for: intriguing new architecture and a clutch of sharp hotel openings

Enjoy the cocktails at August in Antwerp; then head next door for dinner at the new Untitled, which offers rustic dishes from a renowned team.

August, and sister property Hotel Julien, showcase the effortless cool that characterizes Belgium's most underrated city.

So often overlooked in favor of its Dutch neighbor Amsterdam —or mistakenly written off as being as staid as Brussels— Antwerp is easily Belgium's most underrated city. In fact, the diamond capital of the world is somewhat of an undiscovered gem, with plenty of cool and culture for a weekend romp. There’s an impressive concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants to rival major European capitals. Perhaps best known is two-star The Jane , which was ranked number 39 in this year's World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2024. If the exquisite 14-course tasting menu htere is out of budget, the restaurant’s sleek new bar, Untitled , which opened earlier this year, offers rustic dishes at a more accessible price point, all lovingly plated before your eyes by chef Joeri Timmermans. After dinner, roll yourself next door to bag a bed at August (a former Augustinian convent turned supremely serene sanctuary), or for a sleepover in the heart of town, sister property Hotel Julien is a design-led favorite. Once you’ve eaten your way through the city’s culinary offerings, walk it all off Zuidpark, an ambitious development set for completion by spring 2024. Pinned to be one of Antwerp’s leafiest havens, the seven-hectare park will have 30,000 plants and several smart water features—all part of the city’s continual effort to be greener. — Gina Jackson

Asturias, Spain

Go for: eco-focused tourism that doesn't scrimp on luxury

Sink into Asturias's mountainous landscapes at Ecoboutique's Solo Palacio, in the Picos de Europa mountain range, where smart interiors beg travelers to stay a while.

In this lesser-trammeled slice of Spain, rural hotels provide a place to rest your head between days spent hiking and visiting Michelin star restaurants. Talk about balance.

While the pandemic generated a new type of traveler—increasingly nature-loving and environmentally conscious—Asturias did not have to reinvent itself to attract them. The tagline “Asturias, natural paradise,” created almost 40 years ago, represents everything we look for in a getaway. Perhaps that is why this autonomous community is the most dynamic destination in northern Spain; it welcomed more than 2.4 million visitors last year, with more international travelers than ever. The climate also helps: heatwaves are barely noticeable. This is the year to discover its natural spaces, many of them UNESCO Biosphere Reserves , via rejuvenated routes such as the Camino Primitivo, a calmer branch of the popular Camino de Santiago , through some of the country’s least-known regions. Spain’s first rural hotel, La Rectoral de Taramundi , opened here, and other noteworthy addresses include PuebloAstur Eco-Resort in the Picos de Europa mountain range, Ecoboutique’s Solo Palacio and Las Caldas Villa Termal . Alternatively, book into new arrivals Palacio de Figueras from the Vestige Collection or CoolRooms’ Palacio de Luces . The food scene also makes Asturias unmissable. Its “landscape cuisine” rivals that of the Basque Country . There are 11 Michelin stars peppered around the region as well as an emerging culinary movement in the Caudal and Nalón valleys, while chefs such as Natalia Menéndez (Casa Chuchu), Diego García (El Pintu), Paula Lamas and Jairo Rodríguez (Roble), and Xune Andrade (Mont) are on the rise. Regional capital Oviedo is aiming to be the country's Gastronomic Capital for 2024, bringing together more than 200 chefs at the Euro-Toques conference in April. — Clara Laguna

Biarritz, France

Go for: a sweet surf scene in a lesser-known stretch of the Basque Country

Sun-soaked Biarritz has built on its Belle Époque heritage with hotels like Villa Magnan (unsurprisingly, you may fine local interior designers sitting beside you at its restaurant).

Breathe in the salty air atop the roof terrace at Regina Biarritz, a new opening from the Parisian-born Experimental Group—and added proof that the surf town is having a comeback.

Just over the border from San Sebastián , the French resort town of Biarritz is prepped to step out of the shade of its Michelin-star-studded Spanish Basque counterpart and welcome a new generation of sophisticate. These travelers are booking into its artfully resuscitated Belle Époque hotels, including Experimental’s brand new Regina Biarritz , Unbound’s Hôtel du Palais , and enigmatic indie Villa Magnan (book a table at De Puta Madre and dine with local interior designers and filmmakers). The late 20th century was not kind to this beautiful town on France’s southwestern coast , its dwindling fortunes and faded grandeur standing in stark contrast to its late-19th-century and early-20th-century heyday, when Emperor Napoleon III had his summer palace here, and his Spanish wife Eugénie promoted Biarritz as a health resort. Happily, in-the-know Spanish and French urbanites have rediscovered this delight, lapping up a hip surf scene (Biarritz is one of Europe’s oldest surf destinations, thanks to a bunch of Americans who visited in the 1950s) and fueling a youthful Basque culinary scene, from the thrilling Les Halles covered market to neo-bistro Epoq and Michelin-starred favorites such as L’Impertinent . — Anna Hart

Bodø, Norway

Go for: stargazing, spectacular nature, and can't-miss cultural events

The aurora borealis are one of the biggest draws for those visiting Bodø in winter, but cultural events in 2024 will means days equally full of colorful entertainment.

Bodø’s position on the pristine shores of northern Norway affords it endless days in the glow of the midnight summer sun and shocks of fluorescent light come winter, when the aurora borealis erupt onto the night sky. This small Arctic fishing town is a European Capital of Culture for 2024, which will result in the area’s largest-ever arts program, including about 1,000 events and an influx of people interested in creativity in all its forms. The region’s unique Sámi heritage is championed here, while striking modern expansion is seen in buildings such as the world-class, harbor-fronting Stormen Concert Hall , which can hold 900 people and will form a crucial centerpoint for the celebrations.

Beyond its cultural accolades, Bodø is also the gateway to the ethereal Lofoten Islands . The dramatic landscape of fjords and jagged peaks makes it a perfect playground for adventurers and photographers alike, offering unforgettable, dramatic views. Adding to Bodø’s appeal is its burgeoning food and drinks scene (try Lystpå for dinner and Brødrene Berbusmel Bakery for breakfast) as well as exciting new places to stay. The Wood Hotel will open in 2024, offering the town’s most luxurious lodgings yet, with pared-back Scandi design and floor-to-ceiling windows. For something a little more in tune with nature, try GlampNord .— Rosie Conroy

Budapest, Hungary

Go for: a fresh take on the 150 year-old city

As the city of Budapest turns 150, an overwhelming sense of old-meets-new is inspired by historic attractions living alongside just-opened hotels (such as the art deco-inspired W, above) and futuristic buildings (like the House of Music Hungary).

Renowned for its architecture, the Hungarian capital is home to everything from art nouveau and neoclassical to gothic and baroque, with the Blue Danube connecting it all like a ribbon. And then there are the mineral-rich thermal baths, featuring ornate design flourishes. The city also buzzes with creativity, which spills over into the vibrant nightlife; the ruin bars district is a tangible example of crafting opportunity from the ashes of adversity following the brutality of Communist rule. November 2023 marks 150 years since the previously divided cities of Buda, Pest, and Obuda were unified, as well as a series of cultural events. The Chain Bridge—the city’s oldest and a “symbol of togetherness,” according to Mayor Gergely Karácsony—has fully reopened after a two-year restoration, granting excellent views of Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building. New builds such as the spectacular House of Music Hungary and the National Athletics Centre (the central stadium for 2023’s World Athletics Championships) are testament to a city with optimism for its next 150 years. The art deco W Budapest —formerly a palace and on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera. Also in the Marriott portfolio is the Dorothea Hotel , with its 216 rooms and glamorous rooftop restaurant. In keeping with the musical events celebrating the 150th anniversary, the 2022 opening of the Hard Rock Hotel—Eastern Europe’s first—combines musical memorabilia (Prince’s faux-fur coat in a shade of, unsurprisingly, purple) with an in-thick-of-it location on Nagymező Street, Budapest ’s legendary louche entertainment strip. — Sarah Rodrigues

Carlsberg City District in Denmark

Go for: new-new-wave eateries in the city's district of the moment

Petit fours are served at Studio, a new restaurant from acclaimed chef Christoffer Sørensen. It joins a select set of eateries in the Carlsberg District.

From Studio's food, to fashion ateliers and design houses, Carlsberg is an intentional hub of creative newness in the beloved Danish city.

For 161 years, Copenhagen ’s sprawling Carlsberg brewery held its secrets behind closed gates. When Carlsberg moved away in 2008, a plan was hatched to transform the old site, with its patinaed spires and life-size elephant statues, into a showcase neighborhood. What attracts residents to the emergent Carlsberg District also charms visitors: copious green space, easy public transit, and an evocative mash-up of contemporary and repurposed architecture, anchored by cherry-picked restaurants and shops. At the light-flooded Coffee Collective , they like to serve two roasts at once to contrast the beans’ terroirs. Aamanns , the pioneer of modernized smørrebrød, is also here, along with Neopolitan pizzeria Surt ; Kona , a destination izakaya from former Noma chef Philipp Inrieter, and Studio , by Christoffer Sørensen, a Michelin Best Young Chef. Home designers Carl Hansen and Søn , by Adelborg and PP Møbler have arrived. Fashion’s Henrik Vibskov has also moved in, packing his atelier with kaleidoscopic garments, in contrast with the classic suits of Deerest nearby. In December 2023, the Carlsberg brewery itself springs back to life, with a state-of-the-art, interactive visitors’ center and the revival of its 1847 bar-room. Also to come are Friday summer parties in the courtyard and the unveiling of namesake Carl Jacobsen’s lavish gardens, open to the public for the first time since their 1890 groundbreaking. Afterwards, retire to the windowseat of your room at Hotel Ottilia overlooking the construction cranes. In a city that believes in livable density, you’re witnessing smart urban planning unfold. — Betsy Andrews

Costa de Prata, Portugal

Go for : boho openings in an unsung corner of the country

Drive north of Lisbon to the quiet Costa de Prata, where Areias de Seixo is one of several new hotels attracting an effortlessly cool crowd.

After bedding down at Areias de Seixo, hit the world-class waves lining the coast—like those Portugal's World Surfing Reserve in Ericeira.

Not as show-offy as Comporta , much less known than the Algarve and with more surfer vibes than the Costa Vicentina, Costa de Prata (Silver Coast) is the strip of Portugal ’s Atlantic seaboard that we are most excited about right now. Start a south-to-north road trip in Ericeira, where Aethos Hotels opened an outpost in which smart design is combined with laid-back coastal cool at the end of 2022. It was hot on the heels of Immerso , a hotel full of local crafts and the same truly Portuguese personality as new restaurant and beach club Balagan. Heading north, Areias do Seixo continues to be a benchmark for luxury stays on the Costa de Prata, while in Nazaré, where German surfer Sebastian Steudtner rode a world record wave of 86 feet, Ohai Nazaré has family-friendly glamping. A visit to Obidos , one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal , is the perfect excuse to stay at the bohemian Literary Man or, if golf is more your thing, check in at Marriott’s Praia D’El Rey . Along the coast, surfing hub Peniche has standout beaches, including Consolação, and is a great jumping-off point for the Berlengas islands, an increasingly less secret paradise. The road trip ends in Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal, where MS Collection Palacete de Valdemouro has just opened under the Small Luxury Hotels banner. There’s no doubt that the Costa de Prata is on track to take gold. — David Moralejo

Cyclades, Greece

Go for: salty-air island-hopping made easier than ever

Stylish boutique hotel Kalesma Mykonos is opening a spa in 2024, marking a hotel boom throughout the cluster of islands known as the Cyclades.

It will be easy to hop between Kalesma and islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos, and Ios, thanks to new flights to and throughout the dazzling blue archipelago.

Is there anywhere more popular than the Greek islands right now? This past summer, the Cyclades—an island group that includes Mykonos , Santorini , Paros, Milos, and Ios—dominated social-media feeds with beautiful blue and white backdrops, thrilling beach clubs and nightclubs, and unparalleled shopping. With more smart stays being unveiled in 2024, as well as new flights, next summer is the time to make a Cyclades trip happen. Etihad , British Airways , and Saudia added new routes to various Greek islands in 2023, plus the 2022 launch of Cycladic , the first inter-island airline, means it’s easier than ever to get there. Hotel business is booming. Santo Pure in Oia on Santorini has just added 20 new suites, and next year it will be joined by sister hotel Santo Mine, a 37-suite luxury resort. Slick boutique hotel Kalesma on Mykonos will launch its spa for the 2024 season, including a hammam and cryotherapy area. Five-star, 80-acre Gundari Resort will open on Folegandros next May, while a new One&Only property will come to Kea in April. Such plush hotels are rare on these islands, expanding the options for luxury stays in the Cyclades. — Ali Wunderman

Go for: new hiking and biking trails, pristine countryside views

Kosovo's untouched valleys offer the perfect canvas for multi-day hiking and biking trips—like the Trans Dinarica cycling route, opening in 2024, which will wind its way past rivers, markets, and via ferrata setups.

Tiny Kosovo lacks the stunning beaches of Albania and luxury resorts of Montenegro, but Europe’s newest country has sky-scraping peaks, pastoral countryside and heart-warming hospitality, a combination ideal for multi-day hiking and biking trips. 2024 will mark the 25th anniversary since the end of the Kosovo war, and there's much to discover in the region now. Following in the footsteps of cross-border adventure trails such as the Peaks of the Balkans and High Scardus, the Trans Dinarica cycling route opens in 2024, making its way past the minarets framing Prizren’s eponymous river, through the Ottoman market town of Gjakova, and on to Peja. Perched on the edge of the Rugova Gorge, Peja serves as base camp for the country’s many outdoor adventures, including via ferratas and spelunking. A new paved path will soon connect the Lumbardhi River Promenade with the popular Health Trail—the beginning of the south-to-west route through the inaptly named Accursed Mountains. Two additional forthcoming routes connect trails in the Rugova Mountains to the gushing White Drin waterfall and Radac cave. Steps from the waterfall, the sleek, modern Ujëvara e Drinit Resort specializes in rooms with a view and fresh trout dinners. Through-hikers can rest weary bones and fill hungry bellies further from town at rural guesthouses such as Ariu , where traditional Kosovar dishes include flija, made with dairy produced on-site. — Naomi Tomky

Mallorca, Spain

Go for: an outpouring of exciting new hotels across the island

Whether you're looking for poolside cocktails or art installations, beloved Mallorca has more where that came from in 2024.

The pool and gardens at Ikos Porto Petro, a sleek resort that opened in 2023 in Mallorca, add to the region's hearty roster of luxury stays.

The grande dame of the Mediterranean remains unrivaled thanks to its pitch-perfect brand of low-key luxury, exceptional service, and focus on sustainability. But in recent months, the Balearic island has added even more jewels to its crown; among them is Son Bunyola , Richard Branson’s latest hotel, in the Tramuntana Mountains. Not far from there, in the town of Puigpunyent, the team behind Andalucia’s stellar Finca Cortesin has opened Grand Hotel Son Net in a 17th-century manor house. Also adding to the excitement for 2024 is the slick styling of Ikos Porto Petro , farm-turned-boutique stay The Lodge , and Zel Mallorca —the first Zel hotel is a collaboration between Rafael Nadal and another homegrown big hitter, Meliá. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also the Four Seasons , which takes over the much-loved Hotel Formentor; Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra; beachfront Aethos ; and Marugal, which has unveiled its second project on the island after Cap Rocat. Meanwhile, S’Arracer del Dimoni hotel will open in Santa Margalida, and Belmond La Residencia will continue its artists-in-residence program and the third edition of art installation Mitico, in collaboration with Galleria Continua. — María Casbas

Northern Italy

Go for: next-level cycling, need-for-speed motorsports, and a slow travel on a new train line

No longer second-fiddle to France, cycling holidays in Italy are taking off—and the north of the country is where all the action is unfolding in 2024.

For the first time ever, the first three stages of the Tour de France will take place in Italy in 2024, a historic moment for the country, the sport, and the prestigious race. Competitors will saddle up in Florence , head east towards Rimini on the Adriatic Coast , follow the Apennines north through Emilia-Romagna , and complete stage three in Turin . With their truffles and terroirs, Italy’s northern regions are best known for their gastronomic heritage, but two-wheeled pursuits have long been part of the landscape. The 1998 Tour de France champion Marco Pantani was born here, while professional racer Davide Cassani was instrumental in developing the Via Romagna, a nearly 300-mile network of cycling routes throughout the region. Now, tour operators have upped their game in time for the event: Tourissimo’s week-long cycle holiday is designed to provide guests with live-action access to the tour itself, plus the chance to conquer the hills and thrills of Emilia-Romagna. Ride International Tours and Ride Holidays have released new routes to reflect growing interest in the region, while the looping, leisurely route between Parma and Modena by Inn Travel leaves more time for sampling local delicacies along the way. Those more comfortable on four wheels will find the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and the annual Motor Valley Fest , both in May, irresistible—this is the birthplace of Maserati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini after all—while those who prefer life in the slow lane can board new railway routes between Turin and Canelli with Fondazione FS ’s 1930s carriages or take Nightjet ’s overnighter from Verona to Liguria (via Milan and Genoa ). Make a final pit stop in Pesaro to find out why it’s been crowned the Italian Capital of Culture for 2024. — Anna Prendergast

Yorkshire, UK

Go for: star chefs leading a foodie revolution

The Abbey Inn is the latest Yorkshire opening from local foodie hero Tommy Banks—and with three luxurious bedrooms launched in summer 2023, you won't have to travel far after indulging at one of the many Michelin-star restaurants in the area.

For a bewitching break in 2024, go north. Yorkshire-born sculptor Henry Moore once said: “The observation of nature is part of an artist’s life.” And Yorkshire has some of the most seductive nature: sweeping landscapes like living oil paintings; undulating dales and peaks; deep-forested moors with big skies; heady lavender fields; lofty woodlands filled with birdsong; and golden sandy sweeps skirting the peppermint-blue sea. The Brontës’ romanticism is not lost. In 2024, go stargazing in Yorkshire’s national parks at the magical Dark Skies Festival . The Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta will return to its new home at Castle Howard in 2024, with rainbow-bright, early-morning mass balloon flights and night glows. There were plenty of Michelin mentions for the county in 2023, with keen eyes on the 2024 list, so restaurants with rooms are ramping up. Just up the road from The Black Swan in Oldstead, Michelin-lauded chef Tommy Banks’ latest outpost, The Abbey Inn , opened in May and its three luxurious bedrooms, care of Tommy’s mother, were launched in July. For the ultimate culinary sleepover, stay two nights and eat at both restaurants. Newbie Mýse , helmed by chef-and-sommelier couple Joshua and Victoria Overington, is a petite restaurant with rooms set among caramel-colored cottages in the sleepy village of Hovingham. Book in for its creative tasting menu, then retire upstairs to one of the cosy-cool rooms. In June, Middleton Lodge , a sustainable luxury retreat bordering the Yorkshire Dales National Park, launched the Forest Spa in the heart of a serenely wooded estate. Don’t pass by honeycomb-hued Helmsley, with its emerging culinary scene and the recent opening of Pignut —a restaurant with a sustainable focus and impressive casual and tasting-menu options. Expect plenty more magic in 2024. — Rachel Everett

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Festival & Events Tours & Trips in Europe

Find the right festival & events tour for you in Europe. There are 57 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 13 days. The month with the most departures is December, making it the most popular time to visit Europe.

57 Festival & Events tour packages in Europe with 271 reviews

• Festival & Events
• Coach / Bus

Sziget Festival (Plus, 10 Days)

The people i met there were amazing, hostels were ok. More activities should be included

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sziget Festival (Standard, 10 Days)

Christmas in Central Europe, Vienna to Berlin

Amazing trip. Well organised. Everything was wonderful and festive ! ????

Halloween in Transylvania 2024 | 8 day tour and Halloween party at Dracula Castle

A tour to Romania had been a dream of mine for well over a decade, so when the time came to plan my next big trip, I finally decided that it was time. AND I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED! Laurentiu was the most incredible guide, could never have asked for better. He was so knowledgeable, and what he wasn't entirely sure of he sought to find out and confirm information for us. The small number of the group made it easier to get around places without too much confusion, and we really did become a great group of friends. While the Halloween and Dracula aspect was definitely the big pull for this trip (the Halloween Party at Bran Castle was an absolute highlight), getting to know a country that was so beautiful and so steeped in rich history was an experience I will never, ever forget. The only tiny issues were a few organisation elements from the company itself, but other than that, this trip was a dream come true. If you want the chance to truly experience everything this beautiful country has to offer, look no further. I have left a piece of my heart in Romania and I will for certain be back one day <3

Anzac Day Tour-10 Days

The Anzac tour was great, mainly because we had an amazing guide in Sami and also really good drivers. However there where definitely some organisational issues that stopped it being a 5 star review. It's not clearly stated but the Anzac tour is huge as in 7-8 full buses so if you're keen to travel with a group of people make sure you contact Traveltalk in advance as you may end up on different buses and staying on different hotels in some instances. We ended up staying at the Princess Hotel in Istanbul, it was away from the old town and literary falling apart (one room had exposed wiring and no plumbing) while the other buses stayed in a 5 star place near the old town. I was also given the wrong size hoody, which is minor but frustrating as TravelTalk called me to specifically ask what size I wanted. Other than that, I highly recommend the tour, Turkey is amazing and to experience Anzac Day day service was incredible and something I will never forget.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Anzac Day Tour-11 Days

The hotels were all substandard and certainly not worth anywhere near the star value they were given and same applies to food. However our guide Mustafa and two wonderful drivers are the reason I give this tour 5 stars. Mustafa's knowledge, his attention to detail and tour flexibility and keen sensitivity were above and beyond expectations despite us loathing the hotels some of which were filthy, Mustafa and the drivers

Beer or Bust

Amazing trip. Lodging was great. Had a fantastic time. Trip of a lifetime.

Christmas in Central Europe, Berlin to Vienna

Awarded Halloween in Transylvania, 3 parties Dracula Castle, Sighisoara Citadel and Dracula's Village

Best tour ever! We had the best people, guide, food and really everything was amazing! I highly recommend this tour for Halloween.

New Year Highlights of the Baltics - 8 days

Oktoberfest 10 Day Package

Ultimate Oktoberfest Adventure (4 nights)

The tents were cold and wet, the breakfast was average*, but I still managed to have the best time of my life and would not only do it again, but recommend it to anybody! *they fixed that by the end of my stay though

Oktoberfest Munich (3-Star Hotel Senator)

Great time and perfect location. Couldn’t ask for a better time.

Munich Oktoberfest

Went to Oktoberfest on the second weekend of 2017 (this only gave me the option of "Oktoberfest 2018" to review) and it was AMAZING! Honestly this was probably the best weekend of my life. Munich and Oktoberfest was probably the best weekend of my life. We stayed at a nice hostel that was clean (looked new) and stayed with my friends in our room and had a private bathroom. Breakfast overall was good and you could eat as much as you want. Our hostel location was about 10 minutes to the Oktoberfest so it was super easy and great. During the weekend we were offered a beer walking tour of the old town (we had beer included in the tour), and also a trip to the Dachau concentration camp. Two totally different things but were appreciated to see different sides of the city and also to get some history and culture instead of just Oktoberfest. The trip leaders were really friendly and helpful and each day offered to take us to the Oktoberfest in the morning to show us the best beer tents and gave us tips while there from what to eat to some words to the some of the beer songs (the ones you hear non stop). The first day we even had a few beers with our leader which was really fun, and then we left to go on the rides at the festival. One tip - go early to get in line for the tents on Saturday. It gets super busy early and you don't want to wait in line! Would definitely recommend this trip as Munich and Oktoberfest are beautiful and super fun and Euroadventures put together a great trip and great itinerary.

2024 Halloween in Transylvania with 2 parties: Dracula Castle & Sighisoara Citadel

We had so much fun on this trip! Christian, our tour guide, was great and our driver was a trooper with all the traffic. Totally recommend this to everyone. One warning, Bran castle is a walk up a very steep hill and I am glad I didn’t walk it in heels.

What people love about Festival & Events Tours in Europe

Amazing trip. Well organised. Everything was wonderful and festive ! ?

Romania is wonderful and it was great seeing all the towns that we were able to. The group was an excellent size with 8 people. All of the places listed in the original tour itinerary were not visited and I never received an updated itinerary that 2 of the other guests on the tour received. It’s a very full schedule especially when taking into consideration the amount of traffic, so you’ll be sacrificing time somewhere, most often we chose to skip lunch and push on. I was disappointed about the day leading up to the Halloween party. We spent very little time in Sighisoara, so we were unable to eat at Vlads birthplace for lunch or see much of the town. Since we were on a Halloween tour I feel like there should have been more of an emphasis around Halloween related events. The tour guide and driver did their best to make sure we reached everything, but the schedule is impossible with the current traffic conditions. It was also the week that their schools try different things, so there was a large number of kids at a lot of the locations which added to wait time to get into places and while touring them. I did love Romania and I’m already planning to visit again. Partying at bran castle is a once in a lifetime event that everyone should do. Loved our tour guide Lorenzo, he had a lot of interesting information to share. I personally would of loved to hear more about local myths, but I did enjoy all the historical and personal stories. Can’t wait to visit Romania again!

Festival & Events Tours

• Oktoberfest (14)
• Anzac Day (7)
• Christmas & New Year (6)
• European Christmas Markets (6)

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Europe

With its layers of history and overlapping of cultures, Europe is a treasure trove of everything from the medieval and ancient to the baroque and art nouveau. Couple this with Arctic conditions in the north and beautiful Mediterranean climates in the south, and there’s a whole side of nature to go with the main dish of culture that can be found in this wonderful continent.

Sinking cities, leaning towers, and mystic old towns are mixed with Catholic churches, deep lochs, and sweeping fjords. This hotbed of history and civilization makes for an undeniably exciting place for any traveler to explore, so here are the top tourist attractions in Europe to help you plan your next trip.

25. Leaning Tower of Pisa

The world-famous leaning tower is known around the globe for its incredible four-degree tilt that makes it seem as if the tower is about to topple over. The amazing slanted belltower sits behind Pisa Cathedral and was built in the Romanesque style.

Dating back to the 12th century, the tower took a whopping 199 years to complete, but began to slant during its construction due to soft ground on one side. Today, the tower – which stands at a wonky 55.86 meters tall – attracts tourists from far and wide who want to catch sight of the tower and snap pictures of themselves in front of it.

24. Canals of Bruges

The arteries of the old town, the canals of Bruges have long been the roadways that connect the city. Bruges originally sat on the banks of the river Reie; as the city developed, so did its charming waterways. The canals were dug from the river for commercial shipping in order to move essential goods and supplies around the town.

Bruges’ inner canals mark the old city walls and ramparts and make for a beautiful area to explore on foot or in one of the many tourist boats. Cruise past the numerous old overarching brick bridges, sail along small streams, and spot the scenic riverside houses.

23. Cliffs of Moher

Located in Ireland’s County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are an awe-inspiring sight. The coastal cliffs are made up of steep 214m stone and run for 14km from Hag’s Head to Doosouth. From the top of the cliffs, the Aran Islands can be spotted across the sparkling waters.

The coastal walking paths along the cliffs make for a fantastic ramble among the natural landscape, where you can glimpse the castle-like cliffs. The cliffs have been the subject of many folk tales and stories, and have been featured in numerous films, such as Harry Potter.

22. Pompeii

In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted with devastating effect. Many small towns and settlements in the region were completely destroyed by the eruption, not least Pompeii . Ironically, being buried under layers of ash that fell from the volcano has led to an incredibly well-preserved snapshot of a Roman city frozen in the midst of a disaster.

Though a few valuables were taken through the centuries, the site was rediscovered and has been excavated since 1764. Nowadays, visitors can walk around the ancient city and marvel at preserved colorful murals and see the plaster casts of people and animals in their final moments.

21. Meteora

Meaning “elevated” in Greek, Meteora is a jutting rock formation in Thessaly, Greece – a wild landscape made up of hill-like boulders that dominate the skyline. Part of what makes that magnificent landscape so amazing, however, are the monasteries that precariously cling to the rocks.

Set on cliffs with staircases cut into the very stone itself, this religious site dates back to the 15th century, and some still welcome visitors to this day. The most famous of all, the Holy Trinity Monastery, perches an amazing 400 meters atop a natural rock tower and is a breathtaking sight to set eyes on.

20. Sagrada Familia

Officially the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, this famously opulent church in Barcelona is the brainchild of the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. With work starting on the church back in 1882, 137 years later, the Sagrada still remains unfinished. It is expected that the building will be completed in 2026.

Built in the art nouveau and gothic styles, the fantastical church has an impressive eight spires and ten that are yet to be constructed. This decidedly Gaudi-esque building draws crowds of tourists with twisting turrets, and surreal curves, while intriguing gargoyles make for something from another world and time entirely.

19. Tallinn Old City

Once part of the trading alliance the Hanseatic League, Tallinn was formerly an extremely prosperous city. The riches of Tallin’s past can be seen be in the Old City, which still retains its 13th-century city plan. Authentically medieval, there are grand merchant’s houses and churches lining the cobblestone streets.

One of the major sites in this cultural and historical heart of the Estonian capital is the Town Hall Square, home to the gothic Town Hall. Elsewhere, you’ll find Estonia’s oldest church, the 13th-century cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin, set on Toompea Hill. Today, it’s not just the historic buildings that make the area so charming; there are also numerous bars and shops to enjoy too.

18. Tower Bridge

Often mistakenly thought to be London Bridge, Tower Bridge is a late Victorian masterpiece showcasing the height of London’s standing on the world stage. Opened in 1894, the bridge crosses the Thames close to the Tower of London, another London landmark.

The bridge itself is a drawbridge powered by engine rooms which are located in the neo-gothic north and south towers, making this a feat of 19th-century engineering. The bridge is still in use to this day and has even been modernized with lights that glimmer in the evening.

17. Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the architectural projects of “Mad” King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is the quintessential fairytale castle. In fact, it was the castle’s soaring spires and romanesque revival style that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Construction of the castle began in 1869, but sadly, Ludwig never got to live in his castle; he died in 1886, the same year of the castle’s completion. Set in South Bavaria among forested mountains and mirror-like lakes, the picturesque setting of the castle is as impressive as the building itself.

16. Mont Saint-Michel

This famous fortified island is located around a kilometer off the northwestern shores of Normandy , France. Walking around Mont-St-Michel might feel as if you have been transported back to another time; the monastery here dates back to the 8th century and is still in use today. The old walls and chapels are intriguing places to explore.

At high tide, waters make the island seem as if it is a floating fortress in the sea. Previously only reachable by foot or car during low tide, the island can be reached at any time on foot along a bridge built in 2014.

15. Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands form a rugged, mountainous region of Northern Scotland. There are many things to do in amongst the dramatic scenery of this picturesque area. There’s Glencoe Valley where red deer roam and waterfalls hide; close to here, Ben Nevis calls with the highest mountain peak in the United Kingdom.

Elsewhere, Loch Ness sits in the Central Highlands and is where you can try to catch a glimpse of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, or simply take a stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The Scottish Highlands are also home to Inverness, the largest city in the region. Nearby Moray Firth is where you may be able to spot dolphins playing in the sea.

14. Lake Bled

Set in Northwest Slovenia close to the town of Bled is a gleaming emerald lake surrounded by stunning verdant hills. Catch one of the old wooden boats called pletna over to the small Bled Island in the middle of the lake. The island is home to the Church of the Assumption of Mary – a 17th-century building with some 15th-century gothic frescoes still intact.

Around this incredibly picturesque spot, there’s also Bled Castle, but one of the best things to do in the area is to simply stroll around the lake and take a break for a swim in the calm waters.

13. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Arguably the most iconic sight in Russia, this twisting Cathedral with its multi-colored onion domes is set in Moscow’s equally iconic Red Square. St Basil’s Cathedral was also built by a very iconic man – Ivan the Terrible – in 1555.

The structure is a madly bright lollypop of strange styles that seem more like a funfair and look unlike anything else in Russia. Because of its unique architectural style and its historic links to a victorious battle in Tatarstan, the cathedral is a symbol of Russia.

12. Dubrovnik Old Town

One of the most beautiful old towns in Europe, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a red-roofed marvel that is asking to be explored. Its ancient city walls jut out into the Adriatic Sea, and its cobblestone streets hide a plethora of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and museums.

Dating back to the 16th century, the stone walls boast baroque churches and crumbling buildings. Built in 1573, Pile Gate marks the entrance the Old Town with its remarkable renaissance arches – it’s particularly beautiful when lit up at night. The Dubrovnik Cable Car offers the opportunity to see the ancient streets of the city from above.

11. Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is well known for its canals. In fact, there are more than 100 kilometers of canals weaving around the Netherland’s capital, forming around 90 islands and requiring 1,500 bridges to get around. The waterways lead to Amsterdam being labeled the ‘Venice of the North.’

The Grachtengordel is Amsterdam’s canal district, where the four main canals form concentric rings around the city center. Dug in the 17th century, the canals were used for transportation, as sewers, as drinking water – a bit of everything. In the modern city, the canals make up the charming cityscape that Amsterdam is known for. The canals are backed by 17th-century townhouses, adding even more to the charm factor.

10. Eiffel Tower

Named after Gustave Eiffel, the unmistakable symbol of Paris is a sight that must be witnessed when visiting the French capital. Constructed between 1887 and 1889, the tower was originally built to be the impressive entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair. The tower stands at 324 meters tall and was amazingly the world’s tallest man-made structure until the Empire State Building took the title in 1930.

Take the lift all the way to the observation deck of the tower and marvel at the views of the Parisian boulevard and pattern of parks below. Or simply sit on the Champ de Mars and marvel at the lattice structure itself.

9. Prague Old Town

The medieval Old Town of the Czech Republic capital is bristling with historical sights, which is what makes it such a popular destination. At its heart is the Old Town Square, where you’ll find the Old Town Hall, boasting the Orloj – or Astronomical Clock – which dates back to 1410, making it the oldest clock still in operation in the world.

Connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town of Prague across the Vltava River is the Charles Bridge. Construction on the bridge started in 1357 but wasn’t completed until the early 15th century. Around the Old Town, plenty of bars and a buzzing nightlife scene make for an enjoyable place to stick around after dark.

See also: Where to Stay in Prague

8. St. Peter’s Basilica

Located in Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica is the biggest church in the world, and one of the most famous examples of Italian Renaissance architecture. Construction began on this monument in 1506, with one of the architects being none other than Michelangelo.

This is where the Pope himself addresses the tens of thousands of worshippers who crowd the adjacent St Peter’s Square. The current Basilica replaced the old St Peter’s Basilica, which stood in the same place from around 360 AD. The church itself is thought to be built over the tomb of St Peter.

7. Canals of Venice

Venice is the original canal city; every other canal city in the world is compared to Venice . The enigmatic waterlogged city is the site of more than 150 waterways and 400 bridges, including the famous Bridge of Sighs.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

The main canal in Venice is the two-mile-long Grand Canal, which flows past St Mark’s Square and is lined with some of Venice’s historic architecture – from the Medieval to the baroque. Gondoliers punt visitors around wearing striped shirts and wide-brimmed hats, but boats on the river are not just for tourists; they are also used for everyday jobs such as rubbish collection.

6. Palace of Versailles

Versailles is a monument like no other; when it comes to palaces, Versailles definitely takes first place. This grandiose building was the main residence for French royalty from 1682 until the 1789 French Revolution.

The exterior of the castle is enchantingly ornate, but its interiors are no less impressive. Some rooms inside the building are as famous as the palace itself, such as the Hall of Mirrors with its opulent gilded decoration. The geometric Garden of Versailles is punctuated with conical trees and woven as canals and fountains.

5. Fjords of Norway

One of the top reasons many people travel to Norway is to see its majestic fjords . Shaped by glaciers over an incomprehensibly long 2.5 million years or so, the towering U-shaped valleys and their carved cliffs create a stunning landscape that’s almost too huge to take in.

Norway boasts over 1000 fjords, only a portion of which are visited en masse (like the Hardangerfjord and Geirangerfjord), meaning it’s still possible to find a slice of solitude. Taking a cruise ship is a great way to see the soaring walls of the fjords as the boat glides on the waters. Alternatively, hiking atop the fjords offers a birds-eye-view of the incredible landscape.

4. Alhambra

Built on the ruins of Roman fortifications in 889 AD, Alhambra is a combination palace and fortress situated in Granada , Spain. For almost 1,000 years, much of the Iberian peninsula was ruled by the Islamic Moors, with Andalusia (the area where Alhambra is located) being their longest-held territory.

Today, you can explore its citadel, the oldest part of the fortress, climb up its watchtower, explore the amazing Moorish gardens and courtyards, and be amazed at the delicate geometric patterns throughout the complex. The setting on the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada makes Alhambra that much more mystical.

3. Hagia Sophia

For almost 1,000 years, Hagia Sophia was the biggest cathedral in the world and is still a fantastic structure to set eyes on. Originally built as an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral in 537 AD when Istanbul was named Constantinople, Hagia Sophia became an Ottoman mosque from 1453 and is today a museum for all faiths to enjoy.

The dome of the Hagia Sophia is a marvel in itself, and the building as a whole perfectly reflective of Byzantine architecture – as well as Istanbul’s patchwork heritage. Walking around the building today, you can piece together the history of the city with its intriguing murals and interesting artifacts.

2. Acropolis

The Acropolis in Athens is a simply stunning sight. This monumental hill is the location of a number of ancient sites that date back to the 5th century BC. Some of the attractions that crown the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and, of course, the Parthenon.

See also: Where to Stay in Athens

Constructed at the peak of the Athenian Empire in 447 BC, the Parthenon is a symbol of Greece and impresses with its innumerable columns. Dedicated to Athena, it became a Christian church in the 6th century AD and a mosque in the 1460s after the Ottoman invasion. After nightfall, the Acropolis is lit up with a glow that can be seen around Athens.

1. Colosseum

The Colosseum is the perfect symbol of the power of the Roman Empire at its height. Dating back to 72 AD, it was designed to hold 50,000 spectators and was, at the time, the biggest amphitheater ever built. Here, all manner of public spectacles were shown – from animal hunts and executions to gory gladiator battles; it was even filled with water for mock sea battles.

See also: Where to Stay in Rome

Although practically a ruin, the Colosseum is still very much an icon of Rome . Step inside the arches and take a tour of the structure. Sit and imagine yourself as a spectator in Roman times, and the grand displays and spectacles that went on inside the ring.

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

69th meeting of un tourism regional commission for the americas, 2nd un tourism regional conference on the empowerment of women in tourism in asia and the pacific, un tourism session on opening eyes and building contact: tourism connecting people and its role in building intercultural dialogue, glasgow declaration - global roundtable for tourism climate action, 2nd meeting of the task force on redesigning tourism for the future, the 50th un tourism regional commission for the middle east and the conference on “investing in tourism: opportunities and challenges in sustainable financing”, glasgow declaration - regenerative tourism for resilience: policy, practice and finance, 36th cap-csa and first un tourism regional forum on gastronomy tourism for asia and the pacific, first un tourism regional forum on gastronomy tourism for asia and the pacific, 2nd un tourism regional conference on brand africa under the theme: "promoting africa to unlock tourism investments and the sector’s growth potential" held in livingstone, zambia from 22 to 24 july 2024, first un tourism regional forum on gastronomy tourism for africa, 8th un tourism global conference on wine tourism.

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What to Know About Venice’s Fees for Day Trips

Venice is trying to mitigate overtourism with a small fee on busy days. City leaders hope it will make visitors more aware of the city’s fragility.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reporting from Rome

After years of debate , Venice on Thursday began charging day visitors five euros to visit its fragile historic center on peak days, making it the first city in the world to adopt such a measure to counter overtourism.

Critics question whether a nominal fee will put people off from visiting one of the world’s most desired destinations. But officials hope that it might encourage some to rethink their plans and decide to come on weekdays or in the off-season.

That might help mitigate the impact of the estimated 20 million visitors who descended last year on the city’s beleaguered residents, who number fewer than 50,000, according to municipal statistics . About half of those visitors came only for the day, city officials said. Overnight guests are exempt from the fee.

The spirit of the initiative, city officials have said, is to make people aware of the uniqueness — and fragility — of Venice. Overtourism is creating an economy solely based on tourism that risks killing the city by pushing its dwindling residents out, said Nicola Camatti, an economics professor and expert in tourism at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice.

When will Venice start charging?

The fee went into effect on Thursday, a holiday in Italy. For 2024, city officials have singled out 29 peak days when single-day travelers in Venice between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. have to pay. The days run until mid-July and are mostly on national holidays and weekends. The access-fee website provides a list of the dates.

Who must pay?

While just about everyone visiting the city has to register to obtain a QR code, not all visitors have to pay the fee. Overnight guests at registered accommodations like hotels or Airbnbs are exempt, because they already pay a daily tourist tax, as are people who study or work in Venice and those visiting relatives. There are other exemptions as well.

Residents of Venice, those born there and minors under 14 are among those who do not have to register. But they must have documents that prove their status.

It is possible that different fees will apply next year on a sliding scale that will depend on how many people city officials expect on any one day. City officials said the fees could be as high as 10 euros per day.

How will the system work?

Before coming to Venice on peak days, visitors should use the website to register and get a QR code.

The code will be scanned at points where visitors enter, like the train station, the city parking lot, the airport and the sprawling waterfront along the San Marco basin where boats dock. The access points will have one line for tourists and another for residents and what officials call city users, who are coming into Venice for reasons other than sightseeing.

At least for now, those who do not register ahead of time can do so at some access points or on their cellphones, officials said. Assistants will be available.

Initially, the controls will be “very soft,” said Michele Zuin, the municipal councilor responsible for the city’s budget.

Speaking to reporters at the foreign press association in Rome this month, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said the fee was not about cashing in on tourists. “The costs of the operation are higher than what we’re going to make,” he said.

Why is Venice doing this?

City officials hope to relieve some of the stress that tourists put on the city by encouraging them to come on less busy days. They also say that by knowing ahead of time how many visitors to expect, the city can better deploy services.

“We want to better manage the numbers of tourists and disincentivize mass tourism” that makes it difficult for residents and visitors to “live in this city,” Mr. Zuin said this month.

To track the flow of visitors, the city already monitors them via phone location data and surveillance cameras, a system some critics have likened to Big Brother .

Venice has also fallen under the scrutiny of the United Nations’ culture agency, UNESCO, whose experts are concerned that not enough is being done to protect the city. Last year, Venice risked being added to UNESCO’s list of Endangered World Heritage Sites after experts at the agency listed mass tourism , along with climate change and development, as a major threat to its future. It urged City Hall to take steps to ameliorate the damage.

The municipal council approved the access fee just days before UNESCO was to vote on its status, and Venice stayed off the “in danger” list . But UNESCO officials said in a statement that “further progress still needs to be made” to conserve Venice.

Critics of the access fee note that officials have not capped the number of visitors, and they say that the nominal fee is hardly a deterrent. As recently as Friday, city officials said that about 80,000 visitors swelled the city’s narrow calli, as the streets are known, and the gardens of the 2024 Venice Biennale , still the world’s principal place to discover new art .

How else is Venice trying to restrict visitors?

Venice also has taken other steps it hopes will reduce what city officials call “mordi e fuggi” tourism, or “eat and flee,” referring to those who seek the city’s greatest hits — the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square — and who bring packed lunches and dump their garbage, contributing little to the local economy.

After years of heated debate and protests by vocal Venetians, the city banned cruise ships from its inner canals in 2021 , though Mr. Camatti, the tourism expert, said the ban on the ships had not reduced the number of day visitors.

This year, the city imposed a limit of 25 people per tour group and also banned the use of megaphones.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

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Unesco social media, kremlin and red square, moscow.

• Description

Inextricably linked to all the most important historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century, the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts, on Red Square, St Basil's Basilica is one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox monuments.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Le Kremlin et la place Rouge, Moscou

Indissolublement lié à tous les événements historiques et politiques les plus importants survenus en Russie depuis le XIII e siècle, le Kremlin a été construit entre le XIV e et le XVII e siècle par des architectes russes et étrangers exceptionnels. C'était la résidence du grand-prince ainsi qu'un centre religieux. Au pied de ses remparts, sur la place Rouge, s'élève la basilique Basile-le-Bienheureux, l'un des plus beaux monuments de l'art orthodoxe.

الكرملين والساحة الحمراء، موسكو

يرتبط الكرملين ارتباطاً وثيقاً بجميع الأحداث التاريخيّة والسياسيّة المهمّة التي توالت على روسيا منذ القرن الثالث عشر ولقد جرى تشييده بين القرنين الرابع والسابع عشر على يد مهندسين روس وأجانب استثنائيين. وكان الكرملين مقرّ الأمير الكبير كما كان مركزاً دينيّاً. عند أسفل أسواره في الساحة الحمراء شيدت بازيليك القديس بازيل وهي من أروع تحف الفنّ الأرثوذكسي.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

莫斯科克里姆林宫和红场

由俄罗斯和外国建筑家于14世纪至17世纪共同修建的克里姆林宫，作为沙皇的住宅和宗教中心，与13世纪以来俄罗斯所有最重要的历史事件和政治事件密不可分。在红场上防御城墙的脚下坐落的圣瓦西里教堂是俄罗斯传统艺术最漂亮的代表作之一。

El kremlin y la Plaza Roja de Moscú

Indisolublemente vinculado a los más trascendentales acontecimientos históricos y políticos de Rusia desde el siglo XIII, el kremlin de Moscú fue construido entre los siglos XIV y XVII por toda una serie de excelentes arquitectos rusos y extranjeros. Además de ser la residencia del Gran Príncipe, fue un importante centro religioso. Al pie de sus murallas, en la Plaza Roja, se alza la basílica de San Basilio el Bienaventurado, uno de los más hermosos monumentos de arte ortodoxo.

モスクワのクレムリンと赤の広場

source: NFUAJ

Kremlin en Rode Plein, Moskou

Het Kremlin is onlosmakelijk verbonden met alle belangrijke historische en politieke gebeurtenissen in Rusland sinds de 13e eeuw. Het werd door de Grote Prins Yuri van Kiev gesticht als residentie en religieus centrum. De bouw vond plaats tussen de 14e en 17e eeuw en het ontwerp was in handen van uitstekende Russische en buitenlandse architecten. Binnen de muren van het Kremlin vindt men een reeks meesterwerken qua architectuur, maar ook beeldende kunst en religieuze monumenten van uitzonderlijke schoonheid. Aan de voet van de stadsmuren, op het Rode Plein, bevindt zich een van de mooiste Russisch-orthodoxe monumenten, de Pokrovkathedraal ook wel Basiliuskathedraal genoemd.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

At the geographic and historic centre of Moscow, the Moscow Kremlin is the oldest part of the city. First mentioned in the Hypatian Chronicle in 1147 as a fortification erected on the left bank of the Moskva river by Yuri Dolgoruki, Prince of Suzdal, the Kremlin developed and grew with settlements and suburbs which were further surrounded by new fortifications - Kitaigorodsky Wall, Bely Gorod, Zemlyanoy Gorod and others. This determined a radial and circular plan of the centre of Moscow typical of many other Old Russian cities.

In 13th century the Kremlin was the official residence of supreme power - the center of temporal and spiritual life of the state. The Kremlin of the late 15th – early 16th century is one of the major fortifications of Europe (the stone walls and towers of present day were erected in 1485–1516). It contains an ensemble of monuments of outstanding quality.

The most significant churches of the Moscow Kremlin are situated on the Cathedral Square; they are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki. Almost all of them were designed by invited Italian architects which is clearly seen in their architectural style. The five-domed Assumption Cathedral (1475–1479) was built by an Italian architect Aristotele Fiorvanti. Its interior is decorated with frescos and a five-tier iconostasis (15th–17th century). The cathedral became the major Russian Orthodox church; a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars and emperors as well as the shrine for metropolitans and patriarchs.

In the same square another Italian architect, Alevisio Novi, erected the five-domed Church of the Archangel in 1505-1508. From the 17th to 19th century, its interior was decorated by wonderful frescos and an iconostasis. In this church many great princes and tsars of Moscow are buried. Among them are Ivan I Kalita, Dmitri Donskoi, Ivan III, Ivan IV the Terrible, Mikhail Fedorovich and Alexei Mikhailovich Romanovs.

The Cathedral of the Dormition was built by Pskov architects in 1484–1489. Inside the cathedral some mural paintings of 16th–19th century have been preserved and the icons of Andrei Rublev and Theophanes the Greek are part of the iconostasis.

In 1505-1508 the bell tower of Ivan Veliki was built. Being 82 metres high it was the highest building in Russia which became the focal point of the Kremlin ensemble.

Among the oldest civil buildings of the Moscow Kremlin, the Palace of the Facets (1487–1491) is the most remarkable. Italian architects Marco Fryazin and Pietro Antonio Solario built it as a great hall for holding state ceremonies, celebrations and for receiving foreign ambassadors. The most noteworthy civil construction of the 17th century built by Russian masters is the Teremnoi Palace.

From the early 18th century, when the capital of Russia moved to St. Petersburg, the Kremlin mainly played a ceremonial role with religious functions. By the end of the century the architectural complex of the Kremlin expanded with the Arsenal reconstructed after the Fire of 1797 by Matvei Kazakov. The Senate was built in 1776–1787 according to the plans of the same architect as the home of the highest agency of State power of the Russian Empire - the Ruling Senate. Today it is the residence of the President of Russia.

From 1839 to 1849 a Russian architect K.A. Thon erected the Great Kremlin Palace as a residence of the imperial family which combined ancient Kremlin buildings such as the Palace of the Facets, the Tsarina’s Golden Chamber, Master Chambers, the Teremnoi Palace and the Teremnoi churches. In the Armory Chamber built by K.A. Thon within the complex of the Great Kremlin Palace, there is a 16th century museum officially established by the order of Alexander I in 1806.

Red Square, closely associated with the Kremlin, lies beneath its east wall. At its south end is the famous Pokrovski Cathedral (Cathedral of St Basil the Blessed), one of the most beautiful monuments of Old Russian church architecture, erected in 1555–1560 to commemorate the victory of Ivan the Terrible over the Kazan Khanate. In the 17th century the cathedral gained its up-to-date appearance thanks to the decorative finishing of the domes and painting both inside and outside the cathedral. The construction of Red Square was finished by the late 19th century together with the erection of the Imperial Historic Museum (today the State Historical Museum), the Upper Trading Rows (GUM) and the Middle Trading Rows. In 1929, , Lenin’s Mausoleum, designed by A.V. Shchusev and an outstanding example of the Soviet monumental architecture, was finished.

Criterion (i) : The Kremlin contains within its walls a unique series of masterpieces of architecture and the plastic arts. There are religious monuments of exceptional beauty such as the Church of the Annunciation, the Cathedral of the Dormition, the Church of the Archangel and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki; there are palaces such as the Great Palace of the Kremlin, which comprises within its walls the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin and the Teremnoi Palace. On Red Square is Saint Basil the Blessed, still a major edifice of Russian Orthodox art.

Criterion (ii) : Throughout its history, Russian architecture has clearly been affected many times by influences emanating from the Kremlin. A particular example was the Italian Renaissance. The influence of the style was clearly felt when Rudolfo Aristotele Fioravanti built the Cathedral of the Dormition (1475-79) and grew stronger with the construction of the Granovitaya Palace (Hall of the Facets, 1487-91) by Marco Fryazin and Pietro Antonio Solario. Italian Renaissance also influenced the towers of the fortified enceinte, built during the same period by Solario, using principles established by Milanese engineers (the Nikolskaya and the Spasskaya Towers both date from 1491). The Renaissance expression was even more present in the classic capitals and shells of the Church of the Archangel, reconstructed from 1505 to 1509 by Alevisio Novi.

Criterion (iv) : With its triangular enceinte pierced by four gates and reinforced with 20 towers, the Moscow Kremlin preserves the memory of the wooden fortifications erected by Yuri Dolgoruki around 1156 on the hill at the confluence of the Moskova and Neglinnaya rivers (the Alexander Garden now covers the latter). By its layout and its history of transformations (in the 14th century Dimitri Donskoi had an enceinte of logs built, then the first stone wall), the Moscow Kremlin is the prototype of a Kremlin - the citadel at the centre of Old Russian towns such as Pskov, Tula, Kazan or Smolensk.

Criterion (vi) : From the 13th century to the founding of St Petersburg, the Moscow Kremlin was directly and tangibly associated with every major event in Russian history. A 200-year period of obscurity ended in 1918 when it became the seat of government again. The Mausoleum of Lenin on Red Square is the Soviet Union’s prime example of symbolic monumental architecture. To proclaim the universal significance of the Russian revolution, the funerary urns of heroes of the revolution were incorporated into the Kremlin’s walls between the Nikolskaya and Spasskaya towers. The site thus combines in an exceptional manner the preserved vestiges of bygone days with present-day signs of one of the greatest events in modern history.

From the date of including the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square on the World Heritage List all the components representing the Outstanding Universal Value of the property are within its boundaries. The territory and the integrity of the World Heritage property have also remained unchanged. Within its boundaries the property still comprises all the elements that it contained at the date of nomination. The biggest threat, however, is unregulated commercial development of the adjacent areas.

Authenticity

The history of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square is reflected in the archival documents of 12th–19th century, for example in medieval chronicles, cadastral surveys, estimated construction books, painted lists, inventories, foreign notes and in graphic matters such as manuscripts, chronicles, plans, drafts, engravings, lithographs, sketches of foreign travelers, paintings and photographs. These documents are exceptionally valuable information sources. Comparison of the data received from archival documents and those obtained in the process of field study gives the idea of authenticity of  the property and its different elements. This comparison also serves as the basis for project development and for the choice of the appropriate methods of restoration that may preserve the monuments’ authenticity.

On the border of the ensemble a number of monuments destroyed in the 1930s were reconstructed according to measured plans.

Protection and management requirements

The statutory and institutional framework of an effective protection, management and improvement of the World Heritage property “Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow” has been established by laws and regulations of the Russian Federation and the city of Moscow.

According to the decree of the President of RSFSR of 18 December 1991 № 294, the Moscow Kremlin was included among especially protected cultural properties of nations of Russia - the highest conservation status for cultural and historical monuments in Russian legislation.

“Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow” is a Cultural Heritage Site of federal importance. State protection and management of federal sites is provided by Federal Law of 25.06.2002 № 73-FZ “On cultural heritage sites (historical and cultural monuments) of nations of the Russian Federation”. The federal executive body responsible for protection of the cultural property is the Department for Control, Supervision and Licensing in the Cultural Heritage Sphere of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation.It is in charge of all methodological and control functions concerning restoration, usage and support of cultural heritage sites and the territories connected.

The World Heritage property is situated in the urban environment of Moscow. The city policy regarding cultural heritage protection and town-planning regulation is the responsibility of Moscow City Government, represented by the Department of Cultural Heritage, the Department of Urban Development and the Committee for Urban Development and Architecture of Moscow. In 1997 the boundaries of the protective (buffer) zone were approved in order to preserve the property, and to maintain and restore the historical architectural environment as well as the integral visual perception of the property.. There is a need to ensure the creation of an appropriate buffer zone and to develop close liaison between all stakeholders, including the Moscow City authorities, to ensure that constructions around the property do not impact adversely on its Outstanding Universal Value.

The World Heritage property is used by the following organizations: FGBUK (Federal Government Budgetary Institution of Culture), the State Historical and Cultural Museum-preserve “The Moscow Kremlin”, the Administrative Department of the President of the Russian Federation, the Federal Guard Service of the Russian Federation and OJSC “GUM Department Store”.

• Official site of 'The Moscow Kremlin' State Historical and Cultural Museum and Heritage Site
• Moscow Kremlin Museums Telegram Group (in Russian only)
• Moscow Kremlin Museums VKontakte Page (in Russian only)
• Moscow Kremlin Museums Dzen Page (in Russian only)
• State Historical Museum VKontakte Group (in Russian only)
• Msk Guide Page (in Russian only)
• Official site of the State Department Store
• State Historical Museum (in Russian only)

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Despite the Soviet past, today’s Moscow is a dynamic, cutting-edge city – and the most populous in Europe. Well-heeled Muscovites flaunt their wealth by sipping Champagne with sushi at elite restaurants and shopping for designer labels at frighteningly expensive boutiques. Meanwhile, a growing middle-class has seen a proliferation of hip bars and trendy cultural centres.

While the Russian capital has striven to move on, recent tensions with the West have stirred up memories of the past. Moscow has previously led the way with protests against Vladimir Putin, but even with the tumbling ruble and economic sanctions, his popularity remains strong.

This doesn’t make Russia a no-go area, and Moscow – with its cosmopolitan, globe-trotting denizens – is not the formidable crucible often depicted. In summer, temperatures soar and the city’s vast parklands flourish. The historic Gorky Park received a complete makeover in 2012, installing free Wi-Fi and even a beach, while the Soviet behemoth that was the Rossiya Hotel has been demolished to make way for an ambitious central park.

Before that project comes to fruition, there is Red Square to marvel at, not least the mind-boggling St Basil’s Cathedral. Built by Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century, its multi-coloured domes and acid-trip patterns seem to defy logic. Nearby is the 14th-century Kremlin and seat of the tsars.

Indeed architecture is one of the city’s main attractions, especially for aficionados of Soviet buildings. All too many have been destroyed to make way for gleaming 21st-century skyscrapers, but Stalin’s unmistakable Seven Sisters still stand tall against the modern towers.

The city is naturally keen to celebrate its great writers, composers and artists too. This sophisticated city boasts world-class institutions like the Bolshoi Theatre, the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.

As for nightlife, the city is becoming increasingly hedonistic – whether jazz, rock or vodka is your thing, there are plenty of options. Even the culinary circuit has come on leaps and bounds, though an evening at one of the city’s growing stable of world-class restaurants requires considerable investment. This is, after all, a capital of oligarchs.

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Featured hotels, izmailovo (gamma-delta).

Constructed to accommodate visitors to the 1980 Olympics, the concrete towers of the Izmailovo boast a staggering 8,000 rooms. Institutional in atmosphere, and located far out in the northern suburbs, the hotel is handy for the enormous Izmaylovo Market and has decent city centre links. There are several onsite restaurants and in-room Wi-Fi is available too.

Peking Hotel

Built in 1956 as a little sister to Stalin's Seven Sister skyscrapers, and intended as post-war headquarters for the secret police, Moscow's Peking Hotel is a heritage hotel with a small 'h', in a good location just northwest of the centre. Although slightly old-fashioned, its 130 rooms are comfortable enough, with satellite TV and en-suite bathrooms.

Warsaw Hotel

Although its location may not be one of Moscow's most picturesque, the Warsaw Hotel is convenient for Gorky Park. Considering the quality of the competition, this is one of the best cheap options in the city, with clean and comfortable rooms, albeit in a rather dated style. Wi-Fi is complimentary and the Oktyabrskaya Metro station is right next door.

Golden Apple

A boutique hotel on a refreshingly human scale, the Golden Apple offers imaginative styling and a personal touch that many 5-star hotels lack. Behind the baroque facade, its minimalist rooms are cosy, and there's an onsite restaurant and an open-plan bar too. Staff speak excellent English and there's Wi-Fi access, a gym and a sauna.

Historical Hotel Sovietsky

In the 1950s, Joseph Stalin decreed that the famous Yar restaurant should be upgraded to a hotel and the Historical Hotel Sovietsky was born. It quickly became a showcase for the image of sophistication that the Soviet government wished to present to the world, and its 107 rooms still conjures up the nostalgia of this period in history.

Hotel Danilovsky

It's hard to imagine a more atmospheric place to stay than the 12-century precincts of the historic Danilovsky Monastery. Set amidst chapels and gardens, the hotel is a modern construction, but the rooms are comfortable and all have a view of the stately monastery buildings. There's a sauna and bar onsite too.

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Europe: Venice residents protest as city begins visitor charging scheme – as it happened

Locals say city is against plan and accuse authorities of turning Venice into a ‘theme park’ by charging day trippers for visits

• 3d ago Summary of the day
• 3d ago ‘Recipe for disaster’: Venice entry fee sparks confusion and protest on day one
• 3d ago Italian state broadcaster journalists to strike
• 3d ago Why is Spain’s prime minister considering resigning from office?
• 3d ago Spanish prosecutor seeks dismissal of case against prime minister's wife
• 3d ago Protests in Venice as city introduces fee
• 3d ago Amsterdam targets river cruises
• 3d ago 'What fee?' Tourists react to new Venice fee
• 3d ago NGO cautions about environmental impact of over-tourism
• 3d ago Venice access fee: what is it and how much does it cost?
• 3d ago Welcome to the blog
• 3d ago ‘Are we joking?’: Venice residents protest as city starts charging visitors to enter

‘Are we joking?’: Venice residents protest as city starts charging visitors to enter

Authorities in Venice have been accused of transforming the famous lagoon city into a “theme park” as a long-mooted entrance fee for day trippers comes into force.

Venice is the first major city in the world to enact such a scheme. The €5 (£4.30) charge, which comes into force today, is aimed at protecting the Unesco world heritage site from the effects of excessive tourism by deterring day trippers and, according to the mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, making the city “livable” again.

But several residents’ committees and associations have planned protests for Thursday, arguing that the fee will do nothing to resolve the issue.

“I can tell you that almost the entire city is against it,” claimed Matteo Secchi, who leads Venessia.com, a residents’ activist group. “You can’t impose an entrance fee to a city; all they’re doing is transforming it into a theme park. This is a bad image for Venice … I mean, are we joking?”

Once the heart of a powerful maritime republic, Venice’s main island has lost more than 120,000 residents since the early 1950s, driven away by a number of issues but predominantly a focus on mass tourism that has caused the population to be dwarfed by the thousands of visitors who crowd its squares, bridges and narrow walkways at the busiest times of the year.

Read the full story .

Summary of the day

A long-mooted entrance fee for day trippers came into force in Venice .

Venice is the first major city in the world to enact such a scheme.

The €5 (£4.30) charge is aimed at protecting the Unesco world heritage site from the effects of excessive tourism.

But the scheme got a shaky start, bewildering people staying in hotels who needed to prove their exemption.

Protesters in Venice expressed their opposition to the new fee.

Opponents argue that the fee is against the principle of freedom of movement and will do nothing to meaningfully address over-tourism.

There was tension between police dressed in riot gear and the estimated 500 people protesting against the fee.

Meanwhile, Madrid’s prosecuting authority sought the dismissal of a case against the wife of Spain’s prime minister.

Journalists at Italian state broadcaster RAI will strike next month, reporters’ trade union Usigrai announced.

‘Recipe for disaster’: Venice entry fee sparks confusion and protest on day one

Venice’s entrance charge for day trippers has got off to a shaky start, bewildering people staying in hotels who needed to prove their exemption and drawing protests from some residents.

The €5 (£4.30) charge, aimed at curtailing over-tourism, has ignited fury among some residents. The charge kicked in at 8.30am on Thursday and will apply on 29 peak days until 14 July as part of a trial phase.

Most of the day trippers arriving at Santa Lucia station came prepared with a QR code proving they had paid the €5 toll, but the initiative caused confusion among people staying in hotels who were unaware they had to go through the rigmarole of confirming their exemption online.

Nicolas Schmit , the Socialist lead candidate in the European elections, has spoken out in defence of Pedro Sánchez and his wife, Begoña Gómez .

We condemn the latest far-right attacks in Spain, which are using spurious claims to harass Begoña Begoña Gómez, her husband Prime Minister @sanchezcastejon and their family. See what our president Stefan Löfven says 👇🏻: https://t.co/lxTP0JbOil #YoConPedro — PES 🌹🇪🇺 (@PES_PSE) April 25, 2024

Italian state broadcaster journalists to strike

Journalists at Italian state broadcaster RAI will strike next month, Reuters reported.

The journalists are protesting against the “suffocating control” over their work by the Italian government, reporters’ trade union Usigrai said today, criticising political attempts “to turn RAI into a mouthpiece for the government.”

Why is Spain’s prime minister considering resigning from office?

On Wednesday night, Spain’s socialist prime minister, Pedro Sánchez , abruptly announced he was cancelling his public duties for the rest of the week and considering resigning from office. He said he would announce his decision on Monday.

What prompted the shock announcement?

Although Spanish politics has become increasingly polarised, personal and bitter over recent years, Sánchez said he had felt compelled to consider his position after what he called a baseless “harassment and bullying operation” conducted against him and his wife by political opponents and hostile sections of the rightwing and far-right media.

The announcement came hours after a Madrid court said it had opened an investigation into Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez , “for the alleged offence of influence peddling and corruption”. The investigation followed a complaint from the pressure group Manos Limpias (Clean Hands).

Read the full explainer here .

Spanish prosecutor seeks dismissal of case against prime minister's wife

Madrid’s prosecuting authority today sought the dismissal of a case against the wife of Spain’s prime minister, Reuters reported.

The move came a day after a judge agreed to look into a private complaint against Begoña Gómez over alleged influence peddling and business corruption.

Pedro Sánchez , the prime minister, cancelled his public duties for the rest of the week and said he is considering resigning, blaming a “harassment and bullying operation” by his political and media opponents for a court’s decision to launch an investigation.

Here are more photos from today’s protest in Venice .

Entrance fees, visitor zones and taxes: how Europe’s biggest cities are tackling overtourism

Mass tourism, promoted by cash-hungry councils since the 2008 crash and fuelled by cheap flights and online room rentals, has become a monster.

After plummeting during Covid, tourism numbers are soaring again and set to exceed pre-pandemic ­levels this summer. The number of low-cost airline seats in Europe, which rose 10% annually from 2010 and hit 500m in 2019, could pass 800m in 2024.

Before lockdown, Airbnb, the ­biggest but far from only ­platform for short lets, saw triple-digit growth in some European ­cities. The net result is that the most ­popular city break destinations now annually host 20 or more visitors for each local.

What to do about it, though, is no easy question. Delicate ­balances need to be struck between the much-needed revenues and jobs generated by tourism, and the ­quality of life of residents; between managing tourism and ­discouraging it.

One strategy that Seville – 3 million tourists a year for 700,000 inhabitants – may adopt is to charge for the big attractions. Since January, foreign visitors to Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, which gets about 3.5m ­visits a year, have been paying €25 for the privilege.

Other cities are relying on better management – Athens, for example, last summer introduced a time-slot system for visits to the Acropolis, while summer access to Marseille’s Calanques is now regulated through a free reservation scheme.

Some places are launching ­information campaigns aiming to reshape tourist flows. France, where 80% of visits are concentrated in 20% of the country, will this spring roll out a €1m campaign urging domestic and foreign tourists to head more off the beaten track .

Read the full story.

When tourists flock to a travel-guide hotspot - clogging ports with dirty cruise ships and pumping planet-heating pollutants out of planes - the environment is one of their first victims. That’s why Barcelona’s plan to fund climate action with a tourist tax could solve two problems at once: limiting the number of visitors who strain the drought-stricken city’s water supplies and financing green policies that clean the air and keep people safe during heatwaves. The city council said it will invest €100m in climate control systems in 170 schools - 148 of which are primary schools - over the next five years. It plans to pay for the measures, which it estimates will benefit 55,519 students, by hiking the tourist tax. Heatwaves have grown hotter, longer and more common as carbon pollution has baked the planet. As well as the large death toll from heat - which scientists pegged at 70,000 people across Europe in 2022 - hot weather makes it harder for students to learn. Barcelona’s plan includes sticking solar panels on rooftops to produce enough energy to power new heat pumps, which keep buildings warm in winter and air conditioners, which keep them cool in summer. The city plans to share the extra energy from the solar panels with the local communities.

Protests in Venice as city introduces fee

Here are the latest images from Venice , where some are protesting a new five-euro fee.

• Europe live

More on this story

Venice access fee: what is it and how much does it cost?

Venice mayor says he is brave like Marco Polo in charging day-trippers €5

Venice to limit tourist group size to 25 to protect historic city

Venice gondola capsizes after tourists refuse to sit down and stop taking selfies

Venice to trial €5 ticketing system for day visitors from 2024

I took my mum to Venice – it was instantly special

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Budapest Airport named Overall Winner at Routes Europe 2024 Awards

BUD’, using creative and innovative tactics, particularly across social media, has broadened the passenger demographic and proactively showcased the destination’s appeal. 

Budapest Airport (BUD) has been crowned the Overall Winner at the Routes Europe 2024 Awards , as well as triumphing in the 5-20 Million Passengers category.

The Hungarian airport was one of five winners at the event, which celebrated not just excellence in airport and destination marketing but also the importance of partnership in sustainable route development. The other victors at the ceremony, held at Routes Europe 2024 in Aarhus, Denmark, were Turismo de Portugal , Athens International Airport , Albrecht Dürer Airport Nürnberg , and Jet2.com .

Following its success, Balázs Bogáts , CCO at Budapest Airport said: “This accolade is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation. I want to express my deepest gratitude to our talented team, our airline partners and all those who contribute to our success. 

“Together we have created a hub of connectivity, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction. We remain dedicated to pushing boundaries, exploring new horizons, and delivering impactful marketing solutions. Our journey continues, and we invite you all to be part of it. You are at the right place. We are at the right place.”

BUD’s airline marketing strategies are the cornerstone of its success, engaging millions of travellers across the world to deliver mutually beneficial results across their aviation partners. Using creative and innovative tactics, particularly across social media, has broadened the passenger demographic and proactively showcased the destination’s appeal.

BUD handled 14.7 million passengers in 2023, marking a return to 91% of pre-pandemic levels. Nonstop scheduled capacity expanded by over 30% to key global markets, including China, the Middle East, and North Africa.

In the Under 5 Million Passengers category, Albrecht Dürer Airport Nuremberg in Germany was named the winner. The airport experienced significant growth in 2023, with destinations climbing to 65 encompassing over 16 new routes and increased frequencies added to their schedule since 2019.

Christian Käser , vice president aviation sales and traffic development at Albrecht Dürer Airport Nuremberg, said: “We really appreciate being awarded this prize. It’s very satisfying to see that our transformation to thrive in a drastically different, dynamic market has been recognized by our customers and airlines.”

In the Over 20 Million Passengers category, Athens International Airport triumphed. Athens achieved a new record year in 2023, recording over 28 million passengers alongside 39 new destinations, 19 new airlines and 68 additional services on existing routes. Growth has been driven predominantly by Western Europe and the North American markets.

Ioanna Papadopoulou , director communications and marketing at Athens International Airport, said: “We are thrilled by this prestigious award which is the reward for our hard work and all our efforts to enhance our airport’s and our city’s connectivity! Dedicated to all our colleagues at Athens International Airport who work 24/7 with dedication and passion for our airlines, our passengers, and our country!”

In the Destination category, Turismo de Portugal came out on top. Crediting strong collaboration with its airport and airline partners, the tourism authority conducts tailored, multichannel marketing campaigns to ensure profitability of new routes. Such efforts have supported the introduction of 30 new destinations in the 2024 summer schedule across their airport networks and broken passenger level records in 2023.

Miguel Moraes , head of trade relations at Turismo de Portugal, said: “It recognises the effort we have been developing in the last decade, working closely with our partner airlines to deliver sustainable routes to our destinations. 

“Especially throughout the difficult period that we endured together, when cooperation was the key element to the recovery, we are now enjoying the benefits of that work. A word of appreciation to those who voted for us, with the reassurance that we will always be here to cooperate with the industry, so critical to our tourism sector.”

Finally, Jet2.com won the Airline category. The UK’s third largest airline increased their seat capacity by more than 7% during its summer 2023 schedule, compared to the previous year. Driven by new routes, fleet growth, and the launch of its 11th UK airport base, Liverpool John Lennon Airport , offers passengers unrivalled choice and flexibility.

Launching almost 40 new routes across their UK airports during the summer 2024 schedule, Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this prestigious award which recognises Jet2.com’s strength and success, as well as our industry-leading approach to supporting and working with airport and destination partners. 

“The Routes Awards are truly global, so this accolade is outstanding evidence of the success of our business, our relentless focus on customer service, and our continued commitment to building long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships with airports and destinations.”

Finalists from the Airport and Destination categories were reviewed and scored by a panel of airline judges, while the Airline category was reviewed and scored by a panel of editorial judges.

Vicky Karantzavelou

Vicky  is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the  Editor-in Chief . She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.

She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.

• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ SHR expands its Global Advisory Board, uniting industry leaders to strengthen innovation in the hospitality industry
• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Mastercard transforms the fight against scams with latest AI tech
• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Banyan Group releases 2023 Sustainability Report
• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Revenues 12.8b and EBIT Adjusted 0.6b for Airbus in the First Quarter of 2024

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Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years.

Jon Gambrell

Associated Press

This artist's rendering provided by the government of Dubai shows plans for Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state's second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches "within the next 10 years" in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Dubai government via AP)

Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state's second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom's 2009 economic crisis.

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“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates' double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai's plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai's ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai's 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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