European film festivals concentrate in specific cities. Here's the honest sort.
Tier 1 — destination film festivals
- Cannes (France, May): The most-prestigious film festival. Industry-only mostly.
- Venice (early September): Premier Italian festival. Lido screenings.
- Berlin Berlinale (February): Open to public — many tickets available.
Tier 2 — strong film festivals
- Locarno, Switzerland (August): Outdoor screenings + auteur cinema.
- Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic, July): Eastern European cinema focus.
- San Sebastián (Spain, September): Spanish-language cinema.
- Edinburgh (June): UK cinema festival.
Tier 3 — niche festivals
- Tallinn Black Nights (November): Baltic cinema.
- Sarajevo Film Festival (August): Balkan cinema.
- Thessaloniki (November): Greek + international.
Strategy
- Cannes is industry-mostly: Don't expect public access.
- Berlinale is public: Tickets bookable online; budget €10-€15 per screening.
- Smaller festivals are accessible: Locarno, Karlovy Vary easier.
- Hotels around festivals double or triple in price.