taly will once again play host to one of the most anticipated classical crossover events of 2026. This March, the internationally celebrated violinist and conductor André Rieu brings his signature blend of sweeping waltzes, romantic melodies, and theatrical orchestral spectacle to three major Italian cities: Bologna, Turin and Milan. For fans of orchestral music and unforgettable live experiences, this tour offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the maestro’s world.
A Celebration of Melody and Emotion
André Rieu has become synonymous with joyful, immersive concerts that appeal to a broad audience. Born in Maastricht in 1949, Rieu trained at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels before founding the Johann Strauss Orchestra in 1987. Since then, he has transformed the waltz and classical repertoire into a vibrant, theatrical experience that fills arenas around the world. His shows combine beloved classical standards, cinematic themes and unexpected moments of surprise — all delivered with warmth, charisma and musical precision.
In Italy, Rieu’s 2026 tour dates are clustered in mid-March, giving fans across the country a chance to see one of the most beloved figures in live orchestrated music perform on home soil.
March 19 — Bologna: Unipol Arena
The tour opens in Bologna at the Unipol Arena on Thursday, 19 March 2026, with doors typically opening in the early evening ahead of a 20:00 start time.
Unipol Arena has become one of northern Italy’s go-to destinations for large concerts and cultural events. Located in Casalecchio di Reno on the western edge of Bologna, the arena combines modern facilities, excellent acoustics and flexible seating that make it ideal for a show of Rieu’s scope. Its multi-purpose design allows for both the grandeur of a full 60-piece orchestra and intimate connection between performers and audience.
Bologna itself is a city with deep musical roots, from historic opera houses to vibrant modern cultural scenes. Visitors to the concert can enjoy Bologna’s medieval streets, portico-lined plazas, and famed culinary traditions — making the concert night a complete cultural outing.
March 20 — Turin: Inalpi Arena
On Friday, 20 March 2026, Rieu moves northwest to Turin’s Inalpi Arena.
The Inalpi Arena is located in one of Italy’s most dynamic northern cities. Known locally as Pala Alpitour, this venue is a modern indoor arena capable of hosting large-scale international performances, offering strong sightlines and concert-level acoustics. With a configuration that can accommodate tens of thousands of spectators for major events, the arena allows Rieu’s orchestra to shine on a scale that suits grand orchestral sound.
Turin is steeped in cultural heritage — from its baroque architecture and royal palaces to its long history of music and theatre. Attending a Rieu concert here invites fans to pair the evening with exploration of Turin’s elegant boulevards, historic cafés, and artistic landmarks.
March 21 — Milan: Unipol Forum
The Italian leg of the tour concludes in Milan on Saturday, 21 March 2026 at the Unipol Forum in Assago, part of greater Milan.
Unipol Forum is one of Italy’s premier indoor arenas, with a capacity that makes it suitable for both major sporting events and international concerts. Its location on the outskirts of Milan gives it easy access from the city’s transport network, allowing fans from across Lombardy and beyond to attend. The venue’s sound design and seating layout ensure that even large audiences can feel connected to every note of Rieu’s performance.
Milan, known as a global hub of fashion, design and culture, adds extra appeal to this concert night. Fans attending the performance can combine their visit with a glimpse into Milan’s historic centre, world-class dining, and iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and La Scala opera house.
What to Expect From the 2026 Italian Performances
Across all three Italian performances, audiences can expect a program that blends beloved classical works — particularly the Viennese waltz tradition — with orchestral pieces drawn from opera, film and theatre. Rieu’s concerts are known for their emotional breadth: gentle, romantic phrases that invite quiet reflection, followed by robust orchestral climaxes that fill whole arenas with sound.
His stage presence plays a significant role in each show’s appeal. Rieu often alternates between conducting and solo performance on his famed Stradivarius violin, creating moments of direct musical intimacy even within large-venue productions. The integration of lighting, set design and occasional theatrical elements — from thematic backdrops to audience participation segments — adds another dimension that separates his concerts from more conventional classical recitals.
While the tour is focused on large arena settings, each Italian venue brings its own character. Bologna’s Unipol Arena reflects the city’s blend of historic heritage and contemporary culture. Turin’s Inalpi Arena captures the energy of a bustling northern metropolis, and Milan’s Unipol Forum situates the performance within one of Europe’s most dynamic cultural capitals. In each location, Rieu’s music promises to resonate not just acoustically, but emotionally — forging a bond between performer and audience that is the hallmark of his live shows.
Practical Tips for Attendees
Tickets for the Italian dates are available now through official channels linked from André Rieu’s tour page, and selecting verified outlets (Viagogo, Stubhub…) is important to avoid inflated or unofficial sales.
For all three cities, concertgoers should arrive early to accommodate venue entry policies, and considering nearby transport options and parking logistics will help ensure a smooth experience. Bologna, Turin and Milan all offer strong public transit networks that connect concert venues with central rail stations and airports, making travel straightforward for both local and visiting fans.
Accommodations near the arenas range from boutique hotels to larger chain properties, particularly in Milan where the broader metropolitan area provides abundant options. Many fans choose to extend their visit to explore local culture, cuisine and attractions — turning the concert into part of a broader Italian getaway.
A Spring to Remember
From Bologna to Turin and Milan, André Rieu’s 2026 Italian shows represent a highlight of his European tour and a rare chance for fans in Italy to experience his orchestral craftsmanship live. Steeped in music history and set in venues designed for both scale and intimacy, these concerts promise memorable evenings where melody, emotion and spectacle converge under one roof.
Whether you’re a longtime follower of Rieu’s work or new to his musical world, the Italian leg of his 2026 tour offers both emotional depth and grand entertainment — bringing the magic of live orchestral performance to life in three of Italy’s most vibrant cultural cities.