May 2026 in Italy: festivals, exhibitions and events not to miss

May 2026: Italy's cultural calendar in full bloom

With mild weather and long days, May is an excellent month to enjoy cultural events across Italy. Below is a curated list of the most notable appointments and practical information for visitors.

• Piano City Milano – 15 to 17 May: piano concerts in unusual urban locations.
• Stramilano – 3 May: the traditional spring run through the historic centre.
• European Night of Museums – 16 May: evening openings and symbolic entry fees at many state and civic museums.
• Venice Biennale – opens 9 May (61st International Art Exhibition, running until 22 November 2026); main venues: Giardini and Arsenale.
• Venezia Comics – 1 to 3 May at Forte Marghera: comics, games and cosplay.
• Festa della Sensa – 17 May: traditional water procession and the symbolic ring-throwing ceremony at San Nicolò del Lido.
• Vogalonga – 24 May: a non-competitive rowing event across the Grand Canal and surrounding islands.
• Rothko in Florence – exhibition on view until 23 August 2026: among the major shows in the city.

Practical tips: many state museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month; check schedules and book in advance for limited-capacity events.