What's on worldwide

Until 24 May

Cannes, France (right)

The first Cannes Film Festival started very badly. The film which opened the festival was also the last one; the screening took place on 1 September 1939 - the day Hitler invaded Poland. Only since it was moved to May in 1951 have things run relatively smoothly, although Roland Emmerich's Godzilla will be stomping all over the finale this year. Amongst the hot favourites for the covetous Palm D'Or are Ken Loach's My Name is Joe, Tod Haynes's Velvet Goldmine and The General by John Boorman.

Until 21 June

Naples, Italy

Although Picasso's paintings are famous worldwide, his tapestries, ceramics and carvings have been largely ignored. This striking exhibition at the Sala del Lazzaretto pays homage to Picasso's lesser known art forms. The pieces on show were created throughout his life, providing a valuable insight into the artist and his progressive development.

May 15

Madrid, Spain

The month long Fiesta de San Isidro, in honour of the city's patron saint, marks the start of the bull-fighting season and is one of the biggest festivals in Spain. There's a non-stop round of carnival events with concerts, parades and loads of free entertainment. Bands play every night in the Jardines de las Vistillas. Now is also the time for cripples to head for the hermitage in San Isidro meadow to partake of the miraculous, curative fountain waters.

Until 3 June

Prague, Czech Republic

The Prague International Music Festival is the perfect excuse to visit this spectacularly beautiful European city. Since the event began more than 50 years ago, it has grown to become one of the most prestigious of its kind. National and international orchestras of world-renown are invited to perform at various venues throughout the city. Amongst the many highlights of this year's festival are performances by the Orchestre de Paris, the Czech Philharmonic and the Prague Symphony.