The Best Cities in Europe for Anime Fans – Group Trips with a Japanese Twist
Organizing a group trip for anime lovers? Whether you’re planning a student outing, a university club tour, a senior incentive trip, or even a corporate reward journey, Europe has become a surprising hotspot for fans of Japanese pop culture. With dedicated conventions, themed districts, and cultural hubs, organizing a group anime-themed tour in Europe is no longer a niche idea—it’s a smart, fun, and highly engaging travel experience.
This guide covers the top cities in Europe where anime culture thrives, along with events and festivals for anime fans that are ideal for group travel. From budgeting tips to safety and logistics, here’s everything you need to know to create an unforgettable anime-inspired European adventure.
Paris, France – Home of Japan Expo and Iconic Manga Culture
Paris remains a central destination for any group tour focused on Japanese pop culture. The city doesn’t just embrace manga—it celebrates it with Europe’s largest anime convention: Japan Expo.
Why It Works for Groups
The expo draws over 250,000 visitors annually and offers a perfect balance of entertainment and education. With workshops, cosplay contests, manga signing booths, and traditional Japanese performances, it caters to both hardcore fans and newcomers alike.
- Event: Japan Expo (early July, Parc des Expositions de Villepinte)
- Ideal For: Schools, university clubs, anime societies
- Tip: Book group passes early to secure discounts and guided tours
Other Attractions
Beyond the event, Paris offers Rue Sainte-Anne—an entire street filled with authentic Japanese restaurants, manga stores like Book-Off, and bubble tea cafés perfect for post-expo meetups. The Louvre and Eiffel Tower still make the must-see list, so your trip balances pop culture with iconic history.
Barcelona, Spain – Culture, Cosplay, and Coastal Vibes
If you’re looking for a sunny, energetic setting for your next anime-themed group trip, Barcelona is a vibrant choice. It blends creativity with beachside chill, making it a hit for student and youth groups.
Don’t Miss: Salón del Manga
This top-tier anime convention usually runs in late October or early November and attracts over 150,000 fans. It’s one of Europe’s longest-running anime expos, featuring Japanese language workshops, film screenings, art shows, and more.
- Venue: Fira Barcelona Montjuïc
- Logistics: Group shuttle options available from major hotels
- Safety: Well-staffed event with clear group registration and emergency services
Group-Friendly Tip
Consider a combined itinerary that includes Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, local tapas tours, and a beach day—Barcelona is perfect for mixing structured cultural programming with free time. Senior groups or business incentives will love the climate and culinary options.
London, UK – Big Conventions, Bigger Culture
London isn’t just about museums and musicals—it’s a hub for anime-themed group experiences too. The city hosts multiple conventions throughout the year, headlined by MCM Comic Con.
Top Convention Events
- MCM Comic Con London: May and October, held at ExCeL London
- Hyper Japan Festival: Celebrates all things Japanese, from anime to traditional tea ceremonies
Group registration is straightforward, and the venues are equipped with accessibility features and multilingual support—key for international school groups or senior tours.
Other Highlights
Visit the Japan Centre near Leicester Square for imported snacks and manga, or organize a group meal at one of Soho’s izakayas. Cosplay meetups are common in Hyde Park or outside Camden Market, giving your group plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
Berlin, Germany – Alternative and Artistic
Berlin’s alternative vibe is perfect for creative, open-minded anime lovers. The city’s underground art scene aligns naturally with cosplay, manga, and J-culture fans. Plus, it’s one of the most budget-friendly capitals in Western Europe, making it a smart choice for budget group travel.
Must-Attend Event: DoKomi in Düsseldorf
While not in Berlin, many Berlin-based groups travel to DoKomi—the biggest anime convention in Germany. It features cosplay villages, J-music dancefloors, and even a manga artist alley. Organizing a Berlin-to-Düsseldorf train trip for a large group is easy via Deutsche Bahn group fares.
- Venue: Messe Düsseldorf, held in June
- Best For: Cosplay groups, college anime clubs, art students
Local Highlights
Berlin offers manga cafés, themed bars, and even VR arcades where fans can experience anime-inspired games. Accommodation options range from hostels to boutique group hotels.
Lucca, Italy – A Medieval Town with Massive Cosplay Energy
Lucca might surprise you. This medieval town in Tuscany transforms each fall into a dreamlike setting for Europe’s most scenic anime event: Lucca Comics & Games. It’s one of the largest pop culture festivals in the world.
Why It’s Unique
Instead of one venue, the entire town becomes the stage. Cosplayers parade through cobblestone alleys, and open-air panels take place in castle courtyards. For fans of Studio Ghibli or fantasy anime, it’s the perfect fairytale setting.
- Event: Late October to early November
- Perfect For: Cultural incentive groups, corporate offsites with a creative twist
Nearby Florence and Pisa provide excellent pre- or post-convention cultural stops. You can even book a wine-tasting detour for older participants or educators.
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Creativity and Cosplay in One Place
Amsterdam is quirky, creative, and incredibly efficient—three qualities that make it perfect for group anime-themed travel in Europe. The Netherlands is also home to Abunai! Convention, an event known for its inclusive atmosphere and themed hotel takeovers.
Planning a Visit to Abunai!
This weekend-long event takes place in Veldhoven (just outside Eindhoven) and includes workshops, karaoke battles, cosplay cafés, and 24/7 activities—ideal for tight-knit group bonding.
- Venue: Koningshof Hotel, August
- Good For: Youth groups, college clubs, creative workshops
Use Amsterdam as the base and plan a one-day charter to the event. The city itself has anime stores, gaming cafés, and a major Japanese film fanbase.
Tips for Organizing a Successful Anime Group Trip
1. Budgeting Smart
Group discounts are often available for both travel and convention entry—many offer educator or club leader passes. Use booking platforms that specialize in budget group travel tips and bundling accommodation, tickets, and transit.
2. Timing Is Everything
Anime conventions typically occur in spring, summer, or fall. Booking 6–12 months in advance ensures availability, especially for larger groups or educational institutions.
3. Plan Around Interests
Not all fans are the same. Some love cosplay, others prefer manga drawing workshops or voice acting panels. Survey your group before committing to a city or event.
4. Logistics & Safety
Always choose venues with crowd control measures, emergency exits, and medical teams. For schools and universities, ensure chaperone-to-student ratios meet policy requirements.
5. Cultural Add-Ons
Many cities offer Japanese gardens, traditional food tastings, or museum exhibits on manga art. These elements add educational value and enhance the group experience.
Conclusion: Europe Is the Ultimate Playground for Anime Fans
From the cobbled streets of Lucca to the bustling convention centers of Paris, Europe offers more than sightseeing—it offers storytelling. Whether you’re a school organizing your next educational trip, a university anime club planning a bonding experience, or a company looking for a creative team-building retreat, an anime-focused group trip to Europe is a unique and unforgettable way to connect through culture.
With careful planning, early booking, and the right destination, you’ll deliver not just a trip—but a shared passion brought to life.
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We specialize in organizing custom itineraries for groups with niche interests—like anime, gaming, and pop culture. From securing group-rate accommodation to arranging convention tickets and airport transfers, our platform makes it easy.
Need guidance on budgeting, translation, or accessibility? We’ve helped school groups, fan clubs, and senior travelers explore Europe safely and affordably. Let us help you turn your group’s anime dreams into real-world adventures.
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