Carnival season is one of the most vibrant times of the year in Europe, with dazzling parades, elaborate costumes, and a festive atmosphere that brings cities to life.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional masked ball in Venice, a colorful Caribbean-inspired street party in Notting Hill, or a lively coastal celebration in Madeira, there’s a perfect European carnival for you.

Our list of Europe’s Best Carnivals highlights the most spectacular festivities, from the historic Cologne Carnival in Germany to the unique Busójárás festival in Mohács, Hungary.

Whether you want to dance through the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife or experience the artistic floats of Viareggio, these celebrations promise unforgettable moments.

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours and activities and Experience Europe’s most vibrant and iconic carnivals, from dazzling parades to timeless traditions.

1. Madeira Carnival

Madeira Islands - Portugal

The Madeira Carnival is one of the most colorful celebrations in Portugal, offering a mix of Rio-style parades, traditional masked balls, and lively street entertainment.

Taking place in Funchal, it’s a must-visit for carnival lovers.

Watch the grand allegoric parade with dazzling costumes, dance in the streets during the fun-filled Trapalhão parade, and enjoy live music and street performances throughout the city. Madeira’s carnival blends tradition with tropical flair.

During your stay make sure to visit the Best Beaches in Madeira! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport.

 Where to stay:  Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino – A stylish hotel with ocean views and easy access to Funchal’s carnival celebrations.

2. Notting Hill Carnival

England

Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s largest street festival, bringing a slice of the Caribbean to London every August. With vibrant parades, steel bands, and delicious street food, it’s a must-experience event.

Dance to the rhythms of reggae, soca, and calypso, admire the spectacular costumes, and enjoy the festive energy that takes over Notting Hill for two unforgettable days.

During your stay make sure to visit tbe Most Amazing Hidden Gems in England! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to London Heathrow or Gatwick, then take the Tube to Notting Hill.

 Where to stay: The Portobello Hotel – A boutique hotel in the heart of Notting Hill, perfect for carnival lovers.

3. Venice Carnival

Venice - Italy

The Venice Carnival is the most elegant and mysterious of all European carnivals, famous for its stunning masks, grand balls, and historical charm. It dates back to the 11th century and transforms the city into a magical wonderland.

Wander through St. Mark’s Square to see the elaborate costumes, attend an exclusive masquerade ball, and watch the Festa delle Marie, a historic beauty pageant. Venice Carnival is a true spectacle.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Most Stunning Castles in Italy! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Venice Marco Polo Airport.

 Where to stay: Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel – A stunning Venetian palace offering an exclusive carnival experience.. 

4. Dunkerke Carnival

France

The Dunkerque Carnival is one of the most unique and wildest carnivals in France, dating back to the 17th century. Known for its colorful parades, satirical songs, and fish-throwing tradition, this carnival is a true spectacle of fun and chaos.

Join the lively Bande de Dunkerque, where thousands of revelers in fancy dress march through the streets, and experience the grand Ball of the Dunkirk Fishermen.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Hidden Gems in France!

 How to get there: Book your flights to Lille Airport, then take a train to Dunkerque.

 Where to stay: Hôtel Borel – A comfortable hotel in the city center, perfect for carnival festivities.

5. Viareggio Carnival

Italy

The Viareggio Carnival is one of Italy’s most famous, known for its spectacular giant papier-mâché floats, satirical performances, and festive energy. Taking place along the Tuscan coast, it’s a mix of art, politics, and fun.

Watch the massive floats parade along the Passeggiata a Mare, enjoy fireworks displays, and explore Viareggio’s beautiful seaside atmosphere.

During your stay make sure to visit the Best Hidden Gems in Italy! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Pisa Airport, then take a train to Viareggio.

 Where to stay: Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte – A luxury hotel with stunning sea views, perfect for enjoying the carnival.

6. Ovar Carnival

Portugal

The Ovar Carnival is Portugal’s liveliest street carnival, featuring elaborate costumes, samba music, and a lively parade atmosphere. It’s known for its fun, creativity, and community spirit.

Enjoy the Carnaval das Crianças (Children’s Carnival), watch the impressive samba school performances, and dance through the streets with locals.

During yoru stay make sure to visit the Most Amazing Secret Destinations in Portugal!  

 How to get there: Book your flights to Porto Airport, then drive to Ovar.

 Where to stay: Furadouro Boutique Hotel Beach & Spa – A stylish beachfront hotel perfect for carnival visitors.

7. Nice Carnival

France

The Nice Carnival is one of the largest in the world, featuring extravagant flower parades, artistic floats, and lively street entertainment along the French Riviera.

Watch the famous Bataille de Fleurs (Battle of Flowers), where thousands of flowers are thrown into the crowds, and admire the illuminated night parades.

During your stay make sure to visit the Most Beautiful Beaches in France! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. 

 Where to stay:  Hotel Negresco – A historic and luxurious hotel located near the carnival festivities.

8. Mohacs Carnival

Hungary

The Busójárás Festival in Mohács is Hungary’s most famous carnival, blending folklore, history, and mystery. Known for its masked “Busós” figures, it’s a unique and lesser-known European carnival.

Witness the ritual burning of the winter effigy, enjoy traditional Hungarian music and dance, and try local specialties like fánk (Hungarian doughnuts).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Budapest Airport, then take a train to Mohács.

 Where to stay: Duna Wellness Hotel – A comfortable and affordable hotel near the festival action.

9. Cologne

Germany

The Cologne Carnival is one of the largest and most exciting in Germany, known as the "fifth season" of the year. The festivities begin in November, but the main celebrations take place in February with lively street parades, costume parties, and traditional Kölsch beer flowing everywhere.

Join the Rosenmontag Parade, where colorful floats throw sweets into the crowd, witness the "Weiberfastnacht" (Women's Carnival) on Thursday, and dance at one of the many masquerade balls across the city. Cologne’s carnival is pure fun!

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best CHristmas Markets in Germany! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Cologne Bonn Airport.

 Where to stay: Excelsior Hotel Ernst – A luxurious hotel in the city center, perfect for carnival-goers.

10. Trakai Carnival 

Lithuania

Trakai’s Užgavėnės Festival is Lithuania’s version of carnival, celebrating the end of winter with colorful masks, lively music, and traditional pancakes (Blynai). Held in the medieval town of Trakai, the festival features costumed performances, bonfires, and the symbolic burning of Morė, a straw figure representing winter.

Explore Trakai Castle, enjoy traditional folk dances, and warm up with local delicacies in this magical winter setting.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Vilnius Airport, then take a short train or bus to Trakai.

 Where to stay: Apvalaus Stalo Klubas – A charming lakeside hotel with castle views.

11. Patras Carnival

Greece

The Patras Carnival is Greece’s biggest and most extravagant carnival, featuring the Grand Parade, a massive treasure hunt, and exciting night parties.

Dating back over 180 years, this celebration blends Venetian, Greek, and modern traditions.

Watch the vibrant Bourboulia ball, where women wear mysterious masks, and experience the final-day burning of the Carnival King. Patras is an unforgettable carnival destination.

During your stay make sure to visit the Best Islands in Greece! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Athens Airport, then take a train or bus to Patras.

 Where to stay: The Bold Type Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel close to all the carnival action.

12. Santa Cruz de Tenerife 

Tenerife - Canary Islands - Spain

Often compared to Rio de Janeiro’s carnival, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is Spain’s biggest and most spectacular. It features elaborate costumes, grand parades, and wild street parties.

Witness the Election of the Carnival Queen, dance to live Latin music at the "Coso Apoteosis" parade, and experience the bizarre Burial of the Sardine, where a giant fish is set on fire to mark the end of the festival.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Tenerife South Airport.

 Where to stay: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – A luxurious and centrally located hotel, ideal for carnival visitors.