From spectacular cultural events such as the Festival of Lights in Croatia and the vibrant Flower Festival in Madeira to the Venice Architecture Biennale and the Berlin Marathon, there are many reasons to visit Europe in 2026.
Festival of Lights, Zagreb, Croatia (March 19th to March 23rd)
The Croatian capital hosts one of the most exciting annual festivals of lights, spanning more than 20 locations in the Upper and Lower Towns, showcasing Zagreb’s most beautiful streets, buildings, parks, squares, and promenades.
This year, the festival, which blends art, design, architecture, and entertainment, will feature installations by international artists from the United Kingdom (UK), France, the Netherlands, and Italy, bringing their unique creativity and vision to Zagreb’s dazzling nighttime landscape.
The festival will include projections and animations, transforming Zagreb into a living canvas.
Flower Festival in Madeira, Portugal (May 1st to May 25th)
The Madeira Flower Festival is one of the island’s most famous events. Every year, it turns the streets of the capital, Funchal, into an enchanting floral paradise.
This festival, filled with vibrant colors, fragrant flowers, and artistic displays, celebrates the island’s rich natural beauty and cultural traditions.
The main attractions include the “Wall of Hope,” where children place flowers on a symbolic wall, promoting messages of peace and unity.
One of the highlights is the Flower Parade, featuring more than a thousand participants dressed in stunning floral costumes, accompanied by lively music and a cheerful atmosphere.
Venice Architecture Biennale, Italy (May 10th to November 23rd)
The most impressive global showcase of architecture is held every two years in Venice. Like the Art Biennale, with which it alternates, the architecture exhibition extends from the Giardini, gardens in the eastern part of the city housing the central pavilion and individual country pavilions, to the vast Arsenale, a former shipyard. Beyond these two main biennale venues, there are many free and often excellent exhibitions throughout the city.
Berlin Marathon, Germany (September 21st)
On September 21st, the Berlin Marathon will once again take over the streets of Germany’s dynamic capital, attracting elite runners, passionate amateurs, and enthusiastic spectators from around the world. Known for its fast and flat course as well as its electrifying atmosphere, the Berlin Marathon is one of the most prestigious road races in the world. Whether you are chasing a personal record, cheering on participants, or simply soaking in the city’s energy, this iconic event is not to be missed. Participants cross the finish line beneath the Brandenburg Gate, one of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, making for a triumphant moment for runners and a breathtaking sight for spectators.
Tomorrowland, Boom, Belgium (July 18th to July 27th)
Over two weekends in July, Tomorrowland will once again transform the Belgian town of Boom into a fantastic world of music and lights. Tomorrowland is a global gathering of electronic music lovers, featuring spectacular stages and top-tier performers. In addition to music, the festival includes interactive art installations and breathtaking fireworks displays.
