10 Best Arts Festivals in Europe

The Salzburg Festival is one of the world's most prestigious cultural events, celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the region. Founded in 1920, the festival initially focused on opera, drama, and concerts. Over the years, it has evolved into a showcase for classical and contemporary works, drawing artists and audiences from around the world. Today, the Salzburg Festival spans five weeks and features a diverse program that includes operatic performances, theatrical productions, and orchestral concerts. The festival is renowned for its emphasis on Mozart's operas, reflecting the composer's deep connection to his birthplace.

With venues ranging from historic theaters to open-air stages, you can enjoy breathtaking performances set against the stunning backdrop of Salzburg's Baroque architecture and picturesque landscapes.

When: July-August

The Venice Biennale is an esteemed cultural institution showcasing contemporary art and fostering international artistic dialogue. Established in 1895 and taking place every two years over the summer, it began as an exhibition of Italian art, but quickly evolved into a global platform for artists from various countries to present their work. The Biennale is renowned for its International Art Exhibition, which features national pavilions where countries display their chosen artists, making it a melting pot of creativity and innovation. Over the years, the event has expanded to include architecture, cinema, dance, and music, solidifying its reputation as a multifaceted celebration of the arts.

Held every two years, the Biennale attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to experience groundbreaking exhibitions and performances. The event highlights established artists and provides a platform for emerging talents, ensuring a dynamic and ever-evolving artistic landscape. Each edition often revolves around a specific theme, encouraging diverse interpretations and discussions on contemporary issues.

When: May-November, biennially

The Festival d'Avignon, founded in 1947, is a contemporary performing arts festival that transforms the historic city into a vibrant theater hub. Initially conceived as a "Week of Dramatic Art," it quickly gained popularity showcasing innovative productions that blended classical and modern works. Set against the backdrop of the Palais des Papes and other iconic venues, the festival attracts thousands of theater enthusiasts who come to experience an array of performances, including plays, readings, exhibitions, and debates.

Over the years, the Festival d'Avignon has expanded to include an alternative event known as the Festival Off, which runs concurrently and features independent theater companies. This parallel festival has become a platform for emerging talent and experimental works. Each year, the festival presents hundreds of performances across various genres, making it a dynamic space for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.

When: July

Documenta is a renowned exhibition of contemporary art that takes place every five years in Kassel, Germany, with the next iteration slated for 2027. It is widely regarded as one of the most significant art festivals globally. Founded in 1955, Documenta emerged as a response to the cultural devastation wrought by World War II, aiming to revitalize the city and reintroduce modern art that was suppressed under the Nazi regime. The inaugural exhibition showcased works deemed "degenerate" and attracted over 130,000 visitors, establishing Kassel as a vital center for contemporary art. Since then, Documenta has evolved into a major platform for artists from around the world, featuring exhibitions that explore pressing social and political themes.

The festival spans approximately 100 days and takes place in various venues throughout Kassel, including the historic Fridericianum museum and outdoor spaces. Documenta has expanded its reach beyond Europe, incorporating voices from Africa, Asia, and the Americas to create a more inclusive dialogue within the art world. This commitment to showcasing innovative and challenging works has solidified its reputation as a transformative space for artistic expression and cultural exchange.

When: June-September, every five years

The Festival d’Aix-en-Provence, held annually in the picturesque town of Aix-en-Provence, primarily celebrates opera. It began with a modest lineup of concerts and operatic performances in 1948. Since then, it has grown into a major cultural event, attracting renowned artists and ensembles from around the world. The festival's commitment to high artistic standards and innovative programming has made it a key player in the global opera scene, showcasing classic works and contemporary compositions.

Every year, the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence transforms the town into a hub of musical activity, featuring performances in venues such as the historic Théâtre de l'Archevêché and the Grand Théâtre de Provence. Apart from operatic productions, it includes orchestral concerts, chamber music, and vocal recitals.

When: July

The Montreux Jazz Festival has evolved into one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world, drawing over 250,000 visitors each year to the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Established in 1967 and initially focusing on jazz, the event quickly expanded its musical scope to include genres such as rock, blues, soul, and pop.

Throughout its history, the festival has been marked by iconic performances, while being celebrated for its commitment to preserving live music history. Its extensive audiovisual archives have been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Memory of the World Register. As it continues to showcase an eclectic lineup of artists, the festival remains a cornerstone of global music culture.

When: July

The Bregenz Festival is a spectacular celebration of opera and the performing arts that takes place during the summer. Launched in 1946, it has grown into a renowned cultural event, attracting audiences from around the world. One of its most iconic features is the floating stage on Lake Constance, which hosts grand operatic performances set against breathtaking natural scenery.

The festival showcases a diverse program that includes orchestral concerts, ballets, and events tailored for children. Each year, the event presents renowned works by composers such as Puccini and Verdi, often featuring bold interpretations and cutting-edge production techniques. The Wiener Symphoniker serves as the festival's resident orchestra, providing musical accompaniment that enhances the overall experience.

When: July-August

The Sziget Festival is one of Europe's largest and most celebrated music and cultural festivals. Since its inception in 1993, it has transformed from a modest student event into a vibrant gathering that attracts over 500,000 attendees from around the globe each year. The event was born out of a desire to fill the void left by the end of socialist summer youth camps, capturing the revolutionary spirit of post-Soviet Hungary. Over the years, Sziget has expanded its lineup to include an array of genres, featuring renowned international artists alongside emerging talents, making it a melting pot of musical styles and cultural experiences.

The festival also offers a wide range of activities that celebrate arts, culture, and social issues. With more than 1,000 performances across multiple stages, you can enjoy everything from rock and pop to electronic and world music. Sziget also hosts various workshops, art installations, and theatrical performances, creating an immersive experience for festival-goers.

When: August

The Berlin International Film Festival was founded in 1951 during the early years of the Cold War as a "showcase of the free world," aiming to promote intercultural exchange and artistic freedom in a divided city. Over the decades, it has become a significant platform for filmmakers and artists to present their work, with a particular focus on social issues and political themes. The festival features a diverse lineup of films across various genres, including feature films, documentaries, and experimental works.

Each year, it attracts filmmakers, actors, and critics from around the globe who come to celebrate cinema and engage in discussions about contemporary issues. The festival's centerpiece is the Competition section, where films vie for prestigious awards such as the Golden Bear for best film and Silver Bears for various categories. The event hosts numerous workshops, panels, and networking events that foster collaboration and innovation within the film industry.

When: February

The Holland Festival is the oldest and largest performing arts festival in the Netherlands, having been established in 1947. It was founded to promote international artistic exchange in the aftermath of World War II and has since become a celebration of art forms, including theater, music, opera, and modern dance. It has since expanded its offerings to include multimedia performances, visual arts, film, and architecture. The festival features contemporary works and classical pieces presented with a modern twist, showcasing talent from around the globe.

Each edition is loosely themed and highlights performances that often address pressing social issues. Recent festivals have focused on topics such as climate change and representation. It also emphasizes outreach initiatives to engage new audiences, including successful non-Western concerts and collaborative projects.

When: June

Europe’s arts festivals offer an exceptional opportunity to experience the continent’s rich cultural diversity and artistic innovation. From the iconic stages of Venice to the breathtaking scenery of Austria, each brings its own flair and charm, ensuring there’s something for every art lover.

For more inspiration on where to go and what to see before, during, or after you experience one of these world-renowned events, explore our Europe travel guide or our Europe tours and vacations.