From the thrill of the Monaco Grand Prix to Slovenia’s Pogi Challenge and Zagreb’s luminous Festival of Lights, here are the 12 best European events this year.
This year, over 42,800 travelers worldwide were asked by European Best Destinations which European event would they most like to experience in 2026. From an initial list of 257 events, their votes produced the Top 12 Best Events in Europe 2026, ranging from music, theatre and sports to the best Christmas market. From the thrill of the Monaco Grand Prix to Budapest’s festive Amazing Advent, Cortina d’Ampezzo’s alpine grandeur, Slovenia’s Pogi Challenge and Zagreb’s luminous Festival of Lights, the ranking offers plenty of ideas for travelers.
1. Monaco Grand Prix, 4-7 June 2026
Each June, Monte Carlo becomes an extraordinary street circuit as Formula 1 cars surge through tight corners set against the Mediterranean, superyachts and Belle Époque architecture. Experiencing the Monaco Grand Prix is unlike any other event in Europe, blending high-speed drama with Monaco’s famed social scene.
Where to stay: Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo a 5-star palace with refined interiors and a perfect location just steps from the race circuit.
2. Cortina d’Ampezzo – Winter Olympics Games, Italy, 6-22 February 2026
The Winter Olympics has returned to Italy with Cortina d’Ampezzo taking center stage as one of the Games’ most spectacular venues. Set in the heart of the Dolomites, the celebrated “Queen of the Alps” is known for its dramatic alpine scenery. During the Olympics, Cortina buzzes with international visitors, who enjoy both the winter sports and lively après-ski culture.
Where to stay: Grand Hotel Savoia, A Radisson Collection Hotel (Cortina d’Ampezzo)
3. Pogi Challenge, Komenda, Slovenia, 31 July – 2 August 2026
The Pogi Challenge is one of Europe’s standout sporting events, giving ordinary cyclists a rare chance to ride against world champion Tadej Pogačar. Set on the legendary climb of Krvavec—one of Slovenia’s toughest ascents—the route spans 23 km with 1,189 metres of elevation and an average gradient of 7.6%, testing both endurance and resolve.Riders set off from Komenda, near Pogačar’s childhood home, before the champion himself follows in pursuit. The challenge is simple: reach the summit before Pogi to enjoy the celebration and the glorious views.
4. Advent Bazilika Christmas Market, Budapest, 13 Nov 2026 – 1 January 2027
Budapest’s Advent Bazilika is one of the world’s most celebrated Christmas markets, renowned for its atmosphere as much as its beauty. Set against St Stephen’s Basilica, the market pairs elegant wooden stalls and festive lights with concerts and cultural performances. A standout feature is the daily light projections on the basilica’s façade, turning the historic setting into a magical seasonal spectacle.
Where to stay: The Belle Epoque, 5-star Matild Palace, is a UNESCO world heritage site with classic art nouveau features.
5. Festival of Lights Zagreb, Croatia 18-22 March 2026
Each spring, for five glowing nights, the Festival of Lights illuminates Zagreb‘s streets, parks, and historic landmarks as the city is transformed into an open-air gallery. Through illuminated walkways, projections, and immersive light installations by local and international artists, Zagreb invites visitors to explore the city in an entirely new way.
Where to stay: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a 5-star Art Deco landmark located in the heart of the city, right by some of the festival’s most iconic light installations.
6. Global Gift Gala, Marbella & Monaco, 19 July 2026
The Global Gift Gala & Challenge is one of Europe’s most prestigious charity events, led in Marbella by Maria Bravo and Eva Longoria, President of the Foundation, bringing together influential voices in an intimate setting of charity dinners and private gatherings. The Monaco event in October is overseen by Camille Gottlieb, daughter of Princess Stéphanie of Monaco. Funds raised at both events support the Global Gift Foundation, which works internationally to improve the lives of women, children and families facing vulnerability.
7. Volleyball on the Water, Ljubljana, Slovenia 10-11 July 2026
Every summer, Ljubljana turns its historic riverbank into a spectacular floating arena with Volleyball on Water. Played on a submerged, LED-lit court in the Ljubljanica River, the event creates the illusion of athletes competing on water, blending sport with performance. What began in 2019 has grown into an international competition, surrounded by DJs, live shows, and riverside festivities.
Where to stay: 5-star InterContinental hotel has a prime old town location and a rooftop bar and restaurant.
8. Shakespeare International Festival, Craiova – Romania, 21-31 May 2026
Held every two years, this festival involves leading theater directors like Robert Lepage, companies and performers. During the festival, performances spill beyond traditional stages into squares, museums and unexpected urban spaces, creating an immersive citywide experience. Shakespeare’s enduring themes are explored through theatre, dance, music and visual art in a way that feels accessible and engaging.
Where to stay: Hotel 5 Continents is a historic 4-star in the city center.
9. Starlite Marbella Festival, Marbella, Spain 29 June – 7July 2026
This annual festival at the Cantera de Nagüeles quarry, offers an open-air concert experience featuring international and Spanish artists across multiple stages. Past events have included Julio Iglesias, Ricky Martin, Pet Shop Boys, Tom Jones, Lenny Kravitz, Sting and Andrea Bocelli. At the heart of the festival lies the Starlite Gala, Spain’s largest charity gala, co-held by Antonio Banderas and Sandra García‑Sanjuán rewards philanthropic efforts across business, culture and entertainment.
Where to stay: Opt for a 5-star beachfront option like the Puente Romano Beach Resort.
10. Azores Blue Island Trail Run (Ultra Blue Island), Portugal, 1-3 May 2026
This spectacular endurance event on Faial Island lets runners choose from distances ranging from the 118 km Whalers’ Great Route to a 10–11 km family-friendly course. The trails wind through Faial’s dramatic volcanic landscapes—from the Caldeira crater and Capelinhos Volcano to lush forests, rugged coastlines and historic whaling paths—offering breathtaking Atlantic views at every step.
Where to stay: Quinta das Bugainvillias is set on Faial’s southern coastline, just above the sea.
11. Monaco Yacht Show, 23-26 September 2026
Every September, Monaco hosts Europe’s premier luxury boating event. Showcasing superyachts, cutting-edge designs and exclusive lifestyle experiences, it captures Monaco’s elegance, innovation, and Mediterranean charm—a must for luxury travelers and yachting enthusiasts.
Where to stay: Fairmont Monte Carlo, a 5-star hotel overlooking the harbor and the yachts.
12. Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy, 15-17 May 2026
The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is the world’s most beautiful classic car exhibition, a celebration of heritage, design and passion. The weekend features a car parade at Villa d’Este and public showcases at Villa Erba, where iconic classics, cutting-edge concept cars and automotive legends are on show.
Where to stay: Grand Hotel Tremezzo, a 5-star lakeside retreat offering Belle Époque charm
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This story was originally published on forbes.com and all figures are in USD.
