Festival trip guides

Planning to attend the Utrecht Early Music Festival? This guide walks you through the official ticket-buying process: online ordering, telephone and written orders, delivery fees for e-tickets and postal tickets, exchange and refund rules, seating categories, and available discounts for Friends, students, CJP holders, and under-31s. Check the current edition's details on the organizer's website.

The Utrecht Early Music Festival takes place across several venues in Utrecht's compact city center. From TivoliVredenburg to historic churches like the Domkerk, most are within easy walking distance. Public transport is available for those who prefer not to walk, though the city's walkability makes it simple to hop between concerts.

World Port Days Rotterdam is the largest maritime event in the Netherlands, held every first weekend of September. This guide covers what to expect, how to get there, highlights like ship tours and the Saturday evening show, and practical tips for families and first-time visitors.

World Port Days (Wereldhavendagen) returns to Rotterdam from September 4-6, 2026, turning the Nieuwe Maas into a maritime stage. Most of the event is free, but excursions and boat trips require advance tickets. Use our guide to plan your weekend around the opening hours, main zones, and Saturday evening show.

World Port Days is a free-entry maritime festival in Rotterdam, but not everything is free. Learn how ticketing and reservations work, how to spot paid events in the official program, and when to book for popular activities like harbor tours.

Every October 9, Valencia celebrates the Day of the Valencian Community, commemorating the conquest of the city by King Jaume I in 1238. This guide explains the history, the key events like the civic procession and floral offering, the Mocadorà tradition for Sant Donís, and practical tips for planning your visit.

Tarifa is Europe's wind sports hub, drawing kitesurfers and windsurfers to its reliable winds and beautiful beaches. Choosing where to stay depends on your priorities: beachfront hotels put you steps from the sand, while old-town stays offer charm and nightlife but require a short drive to launch spots. Seasonal trade-offs matter too—summer is crowded and some beaches close, while spring and fall offer reliable wind with fewer crowds.

The Batalla de Flores is Valencia's most colorful event, closing the Gran Fira with a parade of flower-covered floats and a friendly battle of carnations. Learn the 2026 date, where to watch, and how to get to the Paseo de la Alameda.

Planning to experience Holy Week in Zaragoza? This first-timer's guide highlights the most iconic processions, including the Holy Burial, the Encuentro, and the drum-filled Seven Words procession, plus where to watch and practical tips.

Every January 5, Zaragoza welcomes the Three Kings with a grand parade of floats, horses, and candy. Discover what to expect during the Cabalgata de Reyes and how to make the most of Three Kings Day in this family-friendly Spanish city.

A calçotada is Catalonia's favorite winter feast: charred spring onions dipped in romesco sauce, followed by grilled meats and good wine. While the main festival happens in Valls, using Tarragona as your base lets you explore the tradition, join public events, and dine at top restaurants throughout the season.

Tarifa carnival brings Andalusian humor, costumes, and music to the streets each spring. Learn about its traditional events, typical venues like La Calzada and the Alameda Theatre, and what makes it a family-friendly alternative to larger city celebrations.