Festival trip guides

Strasbourg's Christmas market, known as the Christkindelsmärik, transforms the city each Advent. Explore the multiple squares, from the historic Place Broglie to the lively Place Kléber, and get practical tips for navigating crowds, savoring Alsatian treats, and making the most of your visit.

Plan a winter trip to Troyes with this practical guide to the Marché de Noël. Learn where it takes place, typical opening hours, family activities, and how to combine the market with the city's historic sights and outlet shopping.

Metz's Christmas market unfolds across five city-center squares, each with its own character. Here's your square-by-square guide to the ferris wheel at Place d'Armes, the ice rink at Place de la République, the local Qualité MOSL chalet on Place Saint-Jacques, the medieval charm of Place Saint-Louis, and the food carts of Place de Chambre. Plan your route through the city's festive offerings, including the separate lantern-lit trail on Île du Petit Saulcy.

Each year Troyes transforms its historic center into a Christmas village of wooden chalets in late November through late December. Learn the typical opening hours, what to expect from the parades and children's activities, and how to confirm current details before you go.

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is a spectacular classic and modern yacht regatta in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Spectators can watch for free from the Old Port, Môle Jean Réveille, the Citadel hill, or Pampelonne Beach. Each offers a different perspective, from close-quarters views of yachts to panoramic vistas. For a closer look, consider a sea outing, but verify schedules with local operators. Plan ahead for traffic and parking, and enjoy the festive Voiles Village in the port.

The Atlantic Festival turns Funchal Bay into a stage for the International Fireworks Competition every Saturday in June. From shoreline viewpoints to private boats and rooftop bars, each way to watch offers a different experience. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and how to pick the viewing option that suits you best.

Braga transforms into a festive scene each winter with lights, a Christmas market on Avenida Central, parades, and concerts. Learn what to expect—from the seasonal dates and locations to free and paid attractions—so you can plan a relaxed holiday visit to this historic Portuguese city.

Braga's Semana Santa processions draw visitors from across Portugal and beyond. This guide covers the main processions, typical routes through Sé de Braga, Rua do Souto, and Avenida da Liberdade, practical advice on viewing spots, crowd control, and street closures, plus photography tips for night processions. Always confirm the current schedule and routes on the official Holy Week website before you go.

Every June, Braga bursts into life for São João, one of Portugal's most beloved festivals. This guide covers the essential traditions, the main events of June 23-24, where to experience the best of the party, and practical tips for joining safely.

Braga's São João is a week-long celebration from June 17 to 24, peaking on the night of June 23. This guide explains how to join the martelinho hammer tradition, where to buy plastic hammers and leek flowers, the liveliest party areas like Avenida Central and Praça da República, the best fireworks viewing spots, and how families can enjoy the festivities safely.

Lisbon glows with Christmas lights, markets, and festive events from late November to early January. This guide covers key locations, seasonal foods, and practical tips to help you plan a memorable visit, whether you're exploring the giant tree in Praça do Comércio or browsing handmade gifts at Rossio.

Planning a trip to Coimbra to experience its famous student festivals? This guide compares the Queima das Fitas in May and the Festa das Latas in autumn, helping you choose based on timing, atmosphere, and traditions. Learn about the University's academic heritage and practical tips for attending.