Artistic Treasures

Explore surrealist dreams in Brussels, the hidden world of Michelangelo in Florence, and the depths of Damien Hirst in Munich.  Learn a new language as artistic giants converse in Berlin, or travel back to Fidia’s ancient sculpture in Rome and Palermo's Art Nouveau legacy.

Until 21 July

IMAGINE! 100 years of international surrealism | Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Experience an odyssey through dreams and the subconscious with renowned surrealist masters. Discover over 130 mesmerising works of art exploring surrealism's connections and fractures with symbolism, a precursor movement, amidst Brussels’ avant-garde legacy.

Until 31 July

Michelangelo's Secret Room | Museum of the Medici Chapels, Florence

For the first time since its discovery in 1975, Michelangelo’s secret room beneath the Medici Chapels is open to the public. The tiny space – accessible by only four at a time – is covered in charcoal drawings made by the artist while he sought refuge from the wrath of Pope Clement VII in 1530.

Until Autumn 2024

Damien Hirst: The Weight of Things | MUCA Museum, Munich

An unparalleled exhibition showcasing over 40 works spanning Hirst’s 40-year career, including some pieces that have never been seen before, as well as iconic works such as Natural History, and Butterfly Paintings.

Until 14 July

From Andy Warhol to Kara Walker. Scenes from the Collection | Museum Brandhorst, Berlin

Dive into a vivid exploration where the legendary works of Warhol, Basquiat, and Katz converse with groundbreaking new art, revealing links between art, identity, and society, urging us to look beyond the canvas.

Until 5th May

Fidia: Sculptures from the Age of Pericles | Musei Capitolini, Villa Caffarelli, Rome

Witness the first exhibition solely dedicated to the life and work of ancient Athenian sculptor Phidias. Musei Capitolini will feature over 100 works, including fascinating archaeological finds, paintings, and manuscripts, alongside multimedia installations designed to transport visitors back in time.

Until 30th May

Palermo Liberty: The Golden Age | Sant’ Elia Palace

Step into Palermo’s inspiring Art Nouveau past with a curation of over 500 timeless pieces. In collaboration with the Sant’Elia Foundation, Villa Igiea has contributed three artefacts from its esteemed hotel collection. 

A Celebration of Dance

Spring awakens with the magic of dance. Witness the Scottish Ballet's powerful Swan Lake in Edinburgh or immerse yourself in the artistry of world-renowned dancers at the National Theatre's Ballet Festival Week in Munich.

2 – 4 May

Swan Lake | Festival Theatre, Edinburgh

The Scottish Ballet’s powerful reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s famed Swan Lake makes its long-awaited return to the stage after an eight-year hiatus.

12 - 20 April

Ballet Festival Week | National Theatre, Munich

xperience a week of premieres, guest performances, and highlights from the current season at the Bavarian State Ballet, featuring productions from internationally recognised companies and choreographers, and debuts from Nacho Duato, Sharon Eyal, and Andrew Skeels.

Beyond the Script

Journey to ancient ruins in Syracuse for classic Greek plays or delve into captivating contemporary performances at Berlin's renowned Berliner Theatertreffe.

10 May - 29 June

The Greek Theatre Festival | Syracuse

Allow yourself to be entertained amongst the ancient ruins of Syracuse, where Sicily’s traditional festival enters its 59th season. Expect impassioned performances of classic tragedies and comedies, as you embark upon a theatrical journey to ancient Greece. 

13 May - 19 May

Berliner Theatertreffe | Haus der Berliner Festspiele and other venues in Berlin

Step into a realm of theatrical wonder at Germany’s paramount theatre festival. From dance and puppetry to musical theatre, witness captivating performances, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and revel in premieres and concerts at Hau der Berliner Festspiele

Culture for Families

Spark their imaginations with immersive exhibitions, playful displays, and hands-on activities across Europe. Unleash inner wizards at the Harry Potter Exhibition, conduct symphonies at the LSO Family Concerts, or be amazed by the Edinburgh International Children's Festival.

25 May - 2 June

Edinburgh International Children's Festival | Various locations, Edinburgh

Celebrating the best of children’s international theatre and dance over an incredible nine-day programme filled with distinctive, memorable, and educational performances.  

10 May - 15 December

Harry Potter: The Exhibition | Kleine Olympiahalle, Munich

Young witches and wizards can embark on a thrilling adventure through the world of the ‘boy wizard’, and see props from the films and stage production, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, on an innovative, immersive and magical journey.

17 March and 2 June

LSO Discovery Family Concerts | Barbican, London

A fun, family-focused introduction to the music and instruments of the London Symphony Orchestra, with free workshops before the concert, and the opportunity to meet some of the musicians.

Festivals to celebrate

Unlock Rome's hidden gems, raise a stein at Munich's Spring Festival, and discover Puglia's ancient ceramic secrets. Immerse yourself in Palermo's cultural tapestry or witness nature's artistry at the Chelsea Flower Show

6 - 14 April

Open House Roma | Citywide, Rome

Explore Rome’s architectural highlights with this annual event, celebrating both ancient and contemporary designs. From historical structures to private houses usually inaccessible to the public, unlock a hidden side to the Eternal City.

19 April - 29 April

Munich Spring Festival | Theresienwiese, Munich

Dive into the heart of Munich’s 58th Spring Festival - the lively prelude to Oktoberfest on Theresienwiese. Experience a whirl of Bavarian traditions, bustling stalls, vintage cars, and colourful parades against the backdrop of folk music and dazzling fireworks. 

18 - 19 May

Buongiorno Ceramica! | Laterza and Grottaglie, Puglia

Discover Italy’s ancient legacy of artisan craftsmanship with this annual event, spanning over 40 locations. Across the ‘ceramic cities’ of Laterza and Grottaglie, local studios and museums open their doors to the public in honour of traditional craft.

11 - 19 May

Settimana delle Culture | Palermo, Sicily

Delve into a varied and exciting calendar of events during Palermo’s annual Culture Week. From concerts to exhibitions, this week-long festival is a love-letter dedicated to the city’s enchanting cultural heritage.

21 - 25 May

Chelsea Flower Show, London

The world’s greatest flower show is an essential fixture on the London social calendar, the ultimate juxtaposition of nature and art. Sustainability takes centre stage this year with much-awaited displays from Michela Trinca and Baz Grainger top of the viewing list. 

Immersed in Sound

Spring awakens with the symphony of Europe. Witness operatic grandeur in Florence, explore the cutting-edge of music theatre in Munich, and let the vibrant rhythms of jazz captivate you in Brussels. Experience musical performances that stir the soul and guide you on an unforgettable journey through sound.

13 April - 13 June

Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Festival | Teatro del Maggio, Florence

Now in its 86th year, Italy’s leading opera and classical music festival returns to Florence with a fantastic array of performances. Highlights include Puccini’s Turandot and Tosca, and the dance spectacular Trilogy of Ecstasy, by Roberto Zappalà based on three of the most famous compositions of the last 150 years from Debussy, Ravel, and Stravinksy.

31 May - 10 June

Munich Biennale | Various venues, Munich

The world’s leading festival for contemporary music theatre premieres returns to Munich with the theme ‘On The Way’, and a strong focus on movement. Eleven productions illuminate paths from different perspectives; paths taken by people, by the world, or in the mind.

24- 26 May

Brussels Jazz Weekend | Various squares in Brussels

mmerse yourself in a jazz extravaganza weekend, alive with sultry melodies and eclectic rhythms, set against Brussels' historic charm. This event features world-class artists and innovative performances, drawing jazz lovers from around the globe.

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