Best Events in Europe 2025: Your Seasonal Guide to Iconic Celebrations

Plan your 2025 European adventure around these unforgettable events, showcasing the continent’s vibrant culture, creativity, and traditions. From dazzling light festivals to world-class music and sporting events, this curated list of Europe’s top 10 events promises extraordinary experiences for every traveler.

Book your flights, accommodations, tours, and activities to immerse yourself in these iconic celebrations!

1. Festival of Lights, Zagreb, Croatia

When: March 19–23, 2025
🏆 Best Event in Europe 2025 🏆

Zagreb’s Festival of Lights transforms the city into a dazzling canvas of light and art, earning the prestigious title of Best Event in Europe. This springtime celebration illuminates Zagreb’s historic Upper Town and vibrant Lower Town with over 20 mesmerizing installations by international artists from Great Britain, France, the Netherlands, and Italy.

Highlights:

• City-Wide Spectacle: Light installations brighten streets, parks, squares, and promenades.

• Projection Mapping & Animations: Dynamic light shows turn buildings into living artworks.

• Multisensory Experience: A fusion of art, design, architecture, and entertainment sparks joy and inspiration.

• Celebration of Spring: Experience Zagreb’s vibrant energy as Croatia, named the Best Country to Visit in Europe 2025, shines.

How to Get There: Book flights to Zagreb and arrange a transfer.
Where to Stay: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, near the main train station, offers luxury and convenience.

2. Madeira Flower Festival, Funchal, Portugal

When: May 1–25, 2025

The Madeira Flower Festival transforms Funchal into a vibrant floral paradise, celebrating the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. This iconic spring event features breathtaking displays and lively parades.

Highlights:

• Wall of Hope: A touching ceremony where children place flowers to promote peace and unity.

• Flower Carpets: Intricate floral designs adorn the streets, showcasing local artistry.

• Float Parade: Over 1,000 participants in stunning floral costumes dance to festive music.

• Madeira Auto Parade: Classic cars decorated with flowers blend tradition and innovation.

How to Get There: Book flights to Funchal and arrange a transfer.
Where to Stay: Quinta da Casa Branca, set within a banana plantation, offers a serene retreat.

3. Feria de Abril, Seville, Spain

When: May 5–10, 2025

Seville’s Feria de Abril is a vibrant celebration of Andalusian culture, filled with flamenco music, Sevillanas dancing, and horse-drawn carriages. The city bursts into life with colorful flamenco attire and lively casetas (tents) for dining and festivities.

Highlights:

• Dance Sevillanas: Join locals in traditional Andalusian dance.

• Sip Rebujito: Enjoy sherry mixed with soda in a festive atmosphere.

• Grand Parade: Admire adorned carriages and horses showcasing equestrian traditions.

How to Get There: Book flights to Seville or take a train from Madrid.
Where to Stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII, a luxurious landmark near the festival grounds.

4. Venice Biennale, Italy

When: April 10–November 23, 2025

The Venice Biennale, a global celebration of contemporary architecture, transforms Venice into a hub of innovation and creativity. This prestigious event features thought-provoking exhibitions and collateral events across the city.

Highlights:

• Central Exhibition: Curated by world-renowned architects, showcasing cutting-edge designs.

• Collateral Events: Palazzos and galleries host additional installations city-wide.

• Performances & Talks: Engage with architects through live discussions and interactive programs.

How to Get There: Fly to Venice Marco Polo Airport or arrive by train at Venezia Santa Lucia.
Where to Stay: Aman Venice, a historic palazzo along the Grand Canal, blends charm and luxury.

5. Eurovision Song Contest, Basel, Switzerland

When: May 13–17, 2025

The Eurovision Song Contest in Basel is a global celebration of music and culture, uniting millions with dazzling performances and breathtaking stage designs. This vibrant event showcases musical talent and creativity.

Highlights:

• Spectacular Performances: World-class artists compete on an iconic stage.

• Cultural Exchange: A celebration of unity and diversity through music.

• Vibrant Atmosphere: Basel transforms into a hub of festive energy.

How to Get There: Fly to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg or take a train to Basel SBB.
Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, a luxurious riverside hotel with Rhine views.

6. Ivrea Battle of the Oranges, Italy

When: March 2–4, 2025

The Ivrea Battle of the Oranges is Italy’s most unique carnival, where participants engage in a lively orange-throwing battle, reenacting a historic revolt. This centuries-old tradition blends folklore, community spirit, and vibrant festivities.

Highlights:

• Orange Battle: Nine teams throw oranges in a colorful, energetic reenactment.

• Piedmontese Cuisine: Enjoy local wines and traditional dishes at food stalls.

• Cultural Immersion: Experience Ivrea’s history and festive atmosphere.

How to Get There: Fly to Turin Airport and take a train or drive to Ivrea.
Where to Stay: Spazio[Bianco], offering elegant, contemporary rooms in Ivrea’s center.

7. Berlin Marathon, Germany

When: September 21, 2025

The Berlin Marathon, renowned for its fast, flat course, draws elite runners and amateurs to Germany’s vibrant capital. The electric atmosphere and iconic finish at the Brandenburg Gate make it a must-see event.

Highlights:

• Community Spirit: Berliners line the streets with music and cheering stations.

• Iconic Finish: Runners cross the finish line under the historic Brandenburg Gate.

• Global Participation: Join athletes from around the world in this prestigious race.

How to Get There: Fly to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) or take a train to Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
Where to Stay: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin, steps from the Brandenburg Gate.

8. Tomorrowland, Boom, Belgium

When: July 18–20 & July 25–27, 2025

Tomorrowland is a global music festival phenomenon, transforming Boom into a magical wonderland of music, lights, and immersive experiences. With spectacular stages and a world-class lineup, it’s a celebration of unity and creativity.

Highlights:

• Themed Stages: Intricate designs create a fantastical atmosphere.

• Global Gathering: Attendees from over 200 countries unite through music.

• Immersive Experience: Art installations and fireworks enhance the festival’s magic.

How to Get There: Fly to Brussels or Antwerp Airport and take a train or shuttle to Boom.
Where to Stay: Dreamville for the full experience, or Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt in Antwerp.

9. Royal Ascot, Ascot, UK

When: June 17–21, 2025

Royal Ascot is a prestigious British event combining world-class horse racing, exquisite fashion, and timeless tradition. With royal pageantry and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a highlight of the social calendar.

Highlights:

• Royal Procession: Watch the British Royal Family arrive in horse-drawn carriages.

• Fashion Showcase: Attendees dazzle in elegant hats and morning suits.

• Fine Dining: Enjoy gourmet food, champagne, and afternoon tea in exclusive enclosures.

How to Get There: Fly to London Heathrow or Gatwick and take a train from London Waterloo to Ascot.
Where to Stay: Coworth Park, a luxurious country house hotel near the racecourse.

10. Santa Cruz Carnival, Tenerife, Spain

When: January 31–March 9, 2025

The Santa Cruz Carnival, one of the world’s largest, fills Tenerife with dazzling costumes, lively parades, and infectious rhythms. This vibrant celebration of creativity and joy is a must-visit party.

Highlights:

• Queen’s Gala: Extravagant costumes steal the show at the Carnival Queen election.

• Burial of the Sardine: A humorous procession marks the Carnival’s end.

• Latin Beats: Dance to salsa, merengue, and pop from live bands and DJs.

How to Get There: Fly to Tenerife North (TFN) or South (TFS) Airport and take a bus or taxi to Santa Cruz.
Where to Stay: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey, a luxurious five-star hotel in Santa Cruz.

11. Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany

When: September 20–October 5, 2025

Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, transforms Munich into a vibrant celebration of Bavarian culture, beer, and camaraderie. Attracting millions of visitors from around the globe, this iconic event features lively beer tents, traditional music, and hearty cuisine, creating an unforgettable festive atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Beer Tents: Enjoy world-famous Bavarian beers like Augustiner and Paulaner in massive tents filled with music and cheer.

• Bavarian Traditions: Experience lederhosen, dirndls, and folk performances that showcase Munich’s rich heritage.

• Culinary Delights: Savor pretzels, bratwurst, and roast chicken alongside your beer.

• Carnival Rides & Games: From thrilling roller coasters to classic carousels, the festival offers fun for all ages.

How to Get There: Fly to Munich International Airport (MUC) or take a train to Munich Hauptbahnhof, with easy access to the Theresienwiese festival grounds via public transport.
Where to Stay: Hotel Bayerischer Hof, a luxurious hotel in Munich’s city center, offers elegance and proximity to Oktoberfest.