European Capitals of Culture: A Complete Guide 2026

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Written by the AXA Schengen editorial team
Date: 05/02/2026

European Capital of Culture: Everything You Need to Know About This Label and the 2026 Winning Cities

What do we mean by European Capital of Culture and what can we expect from this promising title? This label puts the spotlight each year on European destinations that are sometimes discreet and little-known to travelers, but driven by a strong cultural vitality and a genuine desire to share their identity.

The AXA Schengen team breaks down this initiative, its goals, and what it concretely brings to the selected cities.
Then, let's turn to the European Capitals of Culture for 2026, with a focus on the highlights and major events that will punctuate this exceptional year for both residents and visitors.

Table of Contents:

• European Capital of Culture: Origins and Objectives
• Cities That Have Already Been "European Capital of Culture"
• Criteria and Guidelines for Becoming a European Capital of Culture
• European Capitals of Culture 2026
• Oulu 2026: Practical Guide and Program
• Trenčín 2026: Practical Guide and Program
• FAQ European Capitals of Culture

What Is a European Capital of Culture? History, Objectives, and Benefits

The European Capital of Culture is a title awarded each year to a city to highlight its cultural scene and strengthen its visibility across Europe.
To understand its role today, we must look back at its origin and the principles that guided its creation.

Since When Has the European Capital of Culture Label Existed?

● In 1984, two Ministers of Culture, Jack Lang (France) and Melina Mercouri (Greece), decided with the agreement of their counterparts from the EEC (the former name of the European Union) to establish a new program that would choose each year "The European City of Culture", the original name of the label.

● In 1999, the program's name changed, and the winner would now be called European Capital of Culture.

What Is the Purpose of the "European Capital of Culture" Label?

According to the European Commission website, the "European Capital of Culture" label was created to:

• Highlight the richness and diversity of cultures in Europe.
• Celebrate what they have in common and thus what unites the peoples of Europe.
• Emphasize the importance of culture in a city's development.

Over time, this label has become a genuine lever for visibility, cooperation, and transformation for selected cities, well beyond a simple cultural program.

What Are the Benefits for a City Receiving the European Capital of Culture Label?

Experience shows that this event is an excellent opportunity for cities to:

• Enhance the international profile of their history and heritage,
• Improve the city's image in the eyes of their own residents,
• Maintain and create new cultural infrastructure,
• Boost tourism, often by 20 to 25%.

Did you know? The European Commission awards the Melina Mercouri Prize of €1,500,000 to Capitals of Culture that meet the pre-established specifications.

Which Cities Have Already Been European Capital of Culture?

● Since the creation of the label, more than 70 cities have been named.

● Athens (Greece) was the first European City of Culture (1985).

● In 2000, to mark the new millennium, 9 cities were chosen:

- Avignon (France)
- Bergen (Norway)
- Bologna (Italy)
- Brussels (Belgium)
- Helsinki (Finland)
- Krakow (Poland)
- Prague (Czech Republic)
- Reykjavik (Iceland)
- Santiago de Compostela (Spain).

● As the number of countries eligible to compete has significantly increased, the title has been awarded since 2006 to at least 2 cities per year, allowing for more regular rotation among candidate countries.

How Does a City Become a European Capital of Culture?

Becoming a European Capital of Culture is a long, demanding, and prestigious journey that requires vision, preparation, and a good dose of creativity to meet the selection criteria... And convince the jury!
The prize is the opportunity to showcase your city far beyond borders.

Which Cities Can Apply to Be a European Capital of Culture?

● The competition is open to cities from EU Member States, candidate or potential countries, and those from the European Economic Area.

● Member States host the event in rotation according to a pre-established calendar, currently planned until 2033.

How Does the Selection Process Work for Becoming a European Capital of Culture?

1- The selection begins 6 years before the designation year, but actually lasts only 2 years, at the end of which the winning cities are chosen.
Winners then have 4 years to prepare their big year of cultural events.

2- Several selection phases take place, the first at the national level.
Each host country selects and proposes the candidacy files from cities it has chosen.

3- Then a European jury examines the files before the Council of Ministers of the Union announces the winners.

4- The various juries are composed of independent experts from the world of Culture.
This panel continues to support the chosen cities during their 4 years of preparation.

Did you know? Candidate cities can include their "surrounding area" in the organization of the event.
This was notably the case for Marseille, which was European Capital of Culture in 2013 with Aix-en-Provence and other cities in the region.

What Are the Selection Criteria for Becoming a Capital of Culture?

Candidate cities must:

● highlight their role and involvement in European cultural life, their links with Europe, and their European identity.

● present the program of events they wish to organize during their designation year, as well as the long-term benefits for the city.

● demonstrate their commitment to involving all generations of their population as well as local artists in this project.

● try to combine their traditional culture with innovative local artistic projects.

What Are the European Capitals of Culture for 2026?

The European Capitals of Culture for 2026 are:
● Oulu, in Finland
● Trenčín, in Slovakia

Two destinations preparing to reveal their cultural richness and European identity.

Oulu European Capital of Culture 2026: Practical Guide and Program

Heading to Northern Europe! In 2026, Oulu takes on the title of European Capital of Culture and promises a year punctuated by creation, encounters, nature, and technology, not to mention more unusual offerings.

To better understand the spirit of this edition and spot the must-sees, here are the keys to discovering Oulu 2026 and preparing your visit.

Where Is Oulu Located?

Oulu where? you ask? In Finland, of course!
Discover its identity card in 5 points:

1. Location: Capital of Northern Ostrobothnia, Oulu is located about 610 km from Helsinki, 80 km from Lapland, on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Bothnia, which it shares with Sweden.
2. Population: 210,000 inhabitants, of whom about 800 belong to the Saami indigenous people of Scandinavia, honored during this edition of the European Capitals of Culture.
3. Climate and Nature: Wind is part of daily life for Oulu residents. This constant breeze has enabled the development of wind energy in the region.
4. Ranking: Oulu ranks among the 25 best destinations to discover in 2026 according to National Geographic
5. Fun fact: Car tuning is one of the locals' favorite activities. A form of Nordic street art!

Why Was Oulu Chosen as European Capital of Culture 2026?

Technology, Nature, and Culture: Three Elements That Motivated the Jury's Choice

Nature is at the heart of life for Oulu residents, but cultural and especially multicultural dynamism has also been present for a long time!

Extraordinary Cultural Events

• Since 1996, Oulu has hosted the Air Guitar World Championships during which participants mime songs on their invisible guitar before an enthusiastic international audience.

• The Frozen People festival has gathered fans of electronic music and Nordic art on the frozen sea since 2022.
According to the organizers, the 2026 edition promises "brutal and unique artistic experiences in conditions worthy of the Arctic Circle".
Expert's advice: Don't forget your down jackets and head to the seaside resort of Nallikari (the "Riviera of the North" according to some), from February 28 to March 1, 2026.

When Technology Meets Art

Known as the Silicon Valley of the North, Oulu hosts many high-tech companies. This cutting-edge technology will serve many artistic creations in this edition.

Did you know?
• Oulu was competing with two other Finnish candidates: Savonlinna and Tampere.
• The winning city shares its victory with 39 partner municipalities that will also host cultural events in 2026.

What Is the Central Theme of Oulu 2026's Cultural Program?

Oulu has chosen Cultural Climate Change as the guiding thread of its 2026 program.
A desire to combine participatory art, traditional local cultures, and climate challenges at the heart of projects.

Oulu 2026: Program Highlights and Our Favorites

Exhibitions, concerts, community art, workshops (including Arctic cuisine), outdoor performances, participatory art projects, storytelling, and dance shows are on the program for Oulu's cultural year.

Oulu 2026: Key Events Not to Miss

● The weekend of January 16-18, 2026, Oulu launched the biggest event in its history with 250,000 visitors and more than 200 events.

● The Climate Clock: the flagship creation of the event, bringing together 6 works scattered in various natural locations (forest, river, seaside).
To discover from June 2026.

● The Most Valuable Clock in the World, a related project to which all Oulu residents have been invited to contribute by sharing essential moments of their daily life in connection with Nature.

● Layers in The Peace Machine: an immersive and interactive experience where technology meets Art to present Peace as a dynamic, living, and evolving process through everyone's participation.
Everyone is invited to share their experiences and memories on-site or remotely.
Until December 31, 2026.

● Risku: Sámi culture and traditions honored through various activities and performances, including a world premiere, the opera Ovllá, a collaboration between the Oulu Symphony Orchestra and the Sámi National Theatre, Beaivváš.
Highlight of these festivities: February 6, Sámi National Day.

Our Favorites at Oulu 2026

Culture also means local culinary specialties! The Arctic Food Lab has made it its mission to introduce Oulu visitors to Northern hospitality and products, "a journey from the surrounding forests and rivers to our plates."

Culinary highlights:

• Summer Night's Dinner: on August 15, 2026, Europe's longest table will combine conviviality, concerts, poetry, and local cuisine.
• Arctic Tasting: tastings of Arctic products and local dishes, to take away or enjoy in participating restaurants, with the option to rate each specialty online

Oulu 2026: Where to Find the Official Program and Practical Information?

● Oulu 2026: Official Event Program

● The Official Website of the City of Oulu

● Several events will be broadcast live on the YouTube Oulu2026 channel

Travel advice: Find out if you need a visa for Finland and mandatory Schengen insurance for Finland.

Trenčín (Slovakia) European Capital of Culture 2026: Practical Guide and Program

Heading to Slovakia! In 2026, Trenčín joins the club of European Capitals of Culture and is preparing to create a dialogue between heritage, contemporary creation, and unexpected spaces. An edition that focuses on curiosity, rediscovering places, and programming designed to experience the city differently.

Follow the guide!

Where Is Trenčín Located?

1. Location: In northwestern Slovakia. Located about 120 km from Bratislava, the Slovak capital, and not far from the border with the Czech Republic.
2. Population: 54,000 inhabitants are ready to welcome culture enthusiasts from around the world and introduce them to the 11th-century fortified castle, the city's iconic symbol.
3. History: The city has existed since at least 150 AD, and traces of human occupation date back to the Paleolithic era, about 250,000 years ago.
4. Historical footnote: On the rock below Trenčiansky hrad, the majestic medieval castle, a Roman inscription dating from 178-179 recalls its ancient past.

Why Was Trenčín Chosen as European Capital of Culture 2026?

Heritage, Revitalization, and Sustainability: These are the key words that made the difference!

Trenčín 2026 builds on a long, rich, and intense history, but also on a clear ambition according to the organizers:
- bringing forgotten or little-known places back to life,
- offering new cultural experiences,
- creating lasting opportunities for residents and strengthening the city's ties with the rest of Europe.

Did you know?

● The two other Slovak competitors were Nitra and Žilina.

● When it applied, Trenčín did not have a theater as such. The city therefore chose to repurpose existing spaces, exploit its natural sites, and follow a European trend: taking the show on the road, going to meet audiences rather than the other way around.

What Is the Central Theme of Trenčín 2026's Cultural Program?

The driving theme of Trenčín 2026 is Awakening Curiosity.
A quality that is, according to the organizers, "always the first step toward positive change."

Trenčín 2026: Program Highlights and Our Favorite

Concerts, photo exhibitions on architecture and heritage, interactive readings, carnival celebrating local traditions, theater, circus... A unifying buzz throughout the city! Art in all its forms as a call to festive gathering in the streets, parks, and even schools.

● Official opening ceremony of Trenčín 2026: the weekend of February 13-15, 2026.

Bringing Forgotten Sites in Trenčín and Its Region Back to Life

The Fiesta Bridge is a perfect example: the former railway bridge over the Váh will host various artistic projects on the structure itself, on a floating stage, and on the riverbanks.
A cycle path connecting the bridge to the city center, a pedestrian area, and the development of a park on the banks will allow Trenčín residents to enjoy their environment for the long term.

Legends and Nature to Address the Climate Challenge

Floating Communities: Local flora and fauna as the connecting thread between regional myths and folklore, opening dialogues on current environmental challenges. Workshops, exhibitions, and performances that began as early as 2025.

Emotion in Stone

Sensitive about brutalism: Or how to find beauty and emotion in urban architecture that is sometimes so stark it can evoke a form of brutality, whether historical or functional. Exhibitions and workshops will begin in October 2026.

Literature: A Living and Inexhaustible Source of Inspiration and Joy

The Literary Festival: Celebrating the Word, linking the contemporary world to the values and formats of traditional literature. Readings, theater, music, storytelling, and meetings with local and European authors in varied and informal settings.
From March 2026.

Trenčín 2026: Our Favorite

On April 8, 2026, the Gypsy Fest or Roma Music Festival: Violins will send the enchanting and unique sounds of Slavic music soaring, all in a unique and festive atmosphere.

Trenčín 2026: Where to Find the Official Program and Practical Information?

● The Official Trenčín 2026 Website

● The Official Website of the City of Trenčín

Travel advice: Find out if you need a visa for Slovakia and mandatory Schengen insurance for Slovakia.

Don't leave without us!

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• Changes and New Rules for Traveling in Europe This Year
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• What Are the Public Holidays in Each European Country?

FAQ

What Will Be the European Capitals of Culture in 2027 and 2028?

Évora in Portugal and Liepāja in Latvia have been chosen to hold the title in 2027.
In 2028, it will be the turn of Bourges in France, České Budějovice in Czechia, and Skopje in North Macedonia, a candidate country for EU membership since December 2005.

Which French Cities Have Been or Will Be European Capital of Culture?

Since the creation of the label in 1985, 4 French cities have been European Capitals of Culture: Paris (1989), Avignon (2000), Lille (2004), Marseille (2013).
In 2028, it will be Bourges's turn to wear the crown.
The land of Molière awaits you, but don't forget to take out the best travel insurance for France for a worry-free trip!

Which Spanish Cities Have Been or Will Be European Capital of Culture?

The Spanish cities that have held the "European Capital of Culture" label are: Madrid (1992), Santiago de Compostela (2000), Salamanca (2002), and Donostia (2016).
For the 2031 cultural vintage, it will also be a Spanish city, but the winner has not yet been designated.

Don't forget your travel insurance for Spain before joining the festivities!

What Are the Past and Future European Capitals of Culture in Germany?

The German cities designated to celebrate European culture since the creation of the label are: West Berlin (1988), Ruhr (2010), and Chemnitz (2025).
Neither the year nor the city has yet been determined for the next German European Capitals of Culture.
But nothing stops you from visiting German cities that are worth the detour in the meantime!