Published on
August 23, 2025
Europe in 2026 is set to host an unprecedented number of major events, ranging from the Winter Olympics in Italy to the Eurovision Song Contest in Austria, and the UEFA Futsal Euro across Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovenia. These high-profile sporting competitions, business conferences, and cultural celebrations are expected to attract travelers from around the world. With this surge in events comes the need for new visa requirements, including the Schengen visa for many countries and the introduction of the ETIAS travel authorization system. As Europe continues to strengthen its global appeal, international attendees must ensure they are well-prepared for the travel logistics and entry procedures of 2026.
Winter Olympics 2026 – Milan & Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
One of the most anticipated events in 2026 will be the Winter Olympics, set to take place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Scheduled from February 6 to 22, 2026, this international sporting event will feature over 100 competitions across eight sports, including the debut of ski mountaineering. The games will be an excellent opportunity for visitors to witness world-class athleticism in some of Italy’s most scenic locations.
For non-EU visitors planning to attend the Winter Olympics, a Schengen visa will be required. Italy, as part of the Schengen Area, mandates this visa for travelers from countries outside the EU or European Economic Area (EEA). The Schengen visa allows visitors to move freely between multiple European countries, making it convenient for those planning to explore other parts of Europe before or after the event.
Eurovision Song Contest 2026 – Vienna, Austria
The Eurovision Song Contest, one of Europe’s most colorful and entertaining cultural events, will take place in Vienna, Austria in May 2026. This iconic music competition, which features artists from across Europe and beyond, draws millions of fans each year. With three grand nights of music, the Eurovision Song Contest will be held from May 12 to 16, 2026.
Non-EU travelers wishing to attend the event will need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter Austria. Given the popularity of the event, it is advisable to apply for the visa well in advance. The visa will also allow entry into other Schengen countries, offering an added benefit for those wanting to explore neighboring regions.
UEFA Futsal Euro 2026 – Latvia, Lithuania & Slovenia
For futsal fans, the UEFA Futsal Euro 2026 will be held across Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovenia from January 20 to February 7, 2026. As a major indoor football championship, this event will showcase the best futsal teams in Europe, offering fast-paced matches in arenas across these three host countries.
Visitors to the event will need a Schengen visa if they are coming from outside the EU. As the event will be spread across multiple host countries, a Schengen visa will make it easier to travel between Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovenia, enhancing the experience for attendees who wish to visit multiple locations.
European Athletics Championships 2026 – Birmingham, UK
The European Athletics Championships 2026 will be hosted in Birmingham, UK from August 10 to 16, 2026. This prestigious event will bring together the best track and field athletes from across the continent, offering a unique opportunity to see top-tier athletic competition in the heart of the UK.
For travelers from outside the EU, a UK visa will be required to attend the championships. This visa will allow access to the United Kingdom but will not be valid for travel to other EU countries. For those planning to visit other European destinations, separate travel arrangements and visas may be necessary.
2026 Commonwealth Games – Glasgow, Scotland
Another key event in 2026 will be the Commonwealth Games, set to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026. The Commonwealth Games feature athletes from countries across the former British Empire, competing in a wide range of sports, from swimming and athletics to rugby and netball.
Travelers from non-EU countries will need to secure a UK visa to attend the event. The process can take several weeks, so early application is recommended. Visitors can enjoy the sights of Glasgow and other parts of Scotland, though like the European Athletics Championships, this visa will not cover travel to EU countries.
Phocuswright Europe – Barcelona, Spain
For business travelers and technology enthusiasts, the Phocuswright Europe Conference in Barcelona, Spain, will be one of the premier events in the travel technology sector. Scheduled for June 16–17, 2026, this conference will bring together leaders in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries to discuss the latest trends and innovations.
Non-EU travelers will need a Schengen visa to attend the Phocuswright Conference in Spain. This visa will grant access to the Schengen Area, allowing attendees to also explore nearby countries before or after the event.
EASL Congress 2026 – Barcelona, Spain
The EASL (European Association for the Study of the Liver) Congress in Barcelona, Spain, will take place in 2026, though the exact dates are yet to be confirmed. This major event in the field of hepatology will attract leading experts in liver disease research and treatment.
For those attending from outside the EU, a Schengen visa will be required. As with the Phocuswright Conference, attendees will benefit from the ability to explore not only Spain but other Schengen countries during their visit.
Visa and Travel Authorization Updates
As international travel continues to evolve, new visa and travel authorization systems are being implemented. Starting in late 2026, travelers from over 60 non-EU countries, including the United States, Canada, and India, will be required to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This system, which is expected to replace some existing visa requirements for short-term travelers, will streamline the entry process but still require a simple online application and a small fee of approximately €7.
Additionally, the Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to begin on October 12, 2025, and will require biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans) from travelers entering the EU. This new system will enhance border security and improve the management of arrivals in the Schengen Area.
Conclusion
Europe in 2026 will be a year full of exciting events, from the Winter Olympics in Italy to sporting competitions in the UK, as well as high-profile business and academic conferences. For non-EU travelers planning to attend these events, obtaining the correct visa or travel authorization is essential. Whether it’s a Schengen visa for most of the events or a UK visa for those visiting the UK, early preparation will ensure smooth travel. With the added implementation of ETIAS and EES, travelers should stay informed and plan ahead to avoid any delays or complications.
Sources
Kiplinger: Travel Updates for US Citizens in 2026
The Sun: Travel Entry and Exit Rules for Europe
The Times: ETIAS Travel Authorization Information
