Lights, Camera, Action! 2023 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for film fanatics, with an incredible array of film festivals to match. From prestigious industry classics to those putting a spotlight on diversity, Marriott Bonvoy has selected six of this year’s most exciting film festivals alongside the perfect hotel stays, for the ultimate getaway. 

 

Crossing Europe Film Festival (26th April – 1st May 2023) 

Why Go: A leading annual film festival taking place in Linz, Austria since 2004, Crossing Europe Film Festival seeks to promote and celebrate diversity in European cinema by spotlighting younger, lesser-known European filmmakers yet to break through to the industry’s main stage. Throughout the six-day festival, more than 120 films and documentaries are screened based on relevant socio-political and youth cultural topics. The festival’s progressive and pioneering atmosphere provides film lovers with an exciting taste of alternative cinema. 

Where to stay: Conveniently located adjacent to the Design Centre Linz and just a short distance from the city centre’s extraordinary architecture, the newly renovated Courtyard by Marriott Linz provides the perfect base for those attending Crossing Europe Film Festival. The hotel’s ‘Stay Longer on Us’ offer means that those who are looking to enjoy the full experience of the festival will save 20% on their booking. After busy days delving into the latest films, guests can sip cocktails and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Kitchen & Bar at Courtyard, or retire to the hotel’s spacious guestrooms. 

Marriott Bonvoy member rates start from £526 (€591) per night based on a five-night stay with the ‘Stay Longer on Us’ offer. For more information, visit www.marriott.com 

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Champs Elysée’s Film Festival 2023 (20th – 27th June 2023) 

Why Go: The Champs-Élysées Film Festival, founded in 2012 by producer, distributor and exhibitor Sophie Dulac is an unmissable event to discover the best of independent cinema. The festival aims to bridge the gap between French and American cinema, undeniably two cultural giants of the film industry, bringing them together for a week-long celebration of ambitious cinema. The festival is set across five theatres and cinemas that thread through iconic Parisian landmarks, from the Arc de Triomphe to the Champs-Élysées.  

Where to stay:  Built on the site of the famous ‘Théâtre de l'Empire’, a rendezvous of epicureans, artists and visionaries, Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe Hotel has entertainment running through its DNA. Situated in the heart of the city, this luxurious property is a picturesque ten-minute walk from Champs-Élysées Avenue with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe en route. The hotel is perfectly located to explore Paris’ most iconic monuments in between films, from the breathtaking Eiffel Tower to the awe-inspiring Louvre Museum. Finishing the day guests can relax in the hotel’s luxurious guestrooms before stepping out onto a private balcony to admire the sparkling skyline of the City of Lights with a glass of champagne in hand.  

Marriott Bonvoy member rates start from £497 (€558) per night. For more information, visit www.marriott.com 

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Jerusalem Film Festival 2023 (13th – 23rd July 2023) 

Why Go: Since 1984, the historic city of Jerusalem has hosted the Jerusalem Film Festival to highlight the finest work from both local Israeli filmmakers and international directors and producers. Held primarily in Jerusalem Cinematheque and spanning across various historic venues in the city, the event celebrates bold achievements in cinema as well as putting a spotlight on new and exciting creations.  

Where to stay:  Following a cinematic experience in the city of Jerusalem, head to The Jaffa, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Tel Aviv, located just over an hour’s drive away. Housed within the walls of a 19th-century complex that once housed Jaffa's French Hospital, the hotel is ideally situated within reach of the stunning Mediterranean Sea and the historic port of Jaffa. To begin the day, guests can enjoy a luxurious breakfast in The Jaffa’s courtyard, with a Mediterranean influence using local, seasonal produce. After savouring unique flavours, visitors will be ready to explore the vibrant attractions of Tel Aviv such as the Shuk Hapishpeshim flea market, Museum of Antiquities and local boutiques, that are just a short walk away. The hotel’s Golda’s restaurant is emblematic of Tel Aviv’s thriving food scene, serving classic Jewish and Israeli staples in a fresh, elegant style.  

Marriott Bonvoy member rates start from £601 (€675) per night. For more information, visit www.marriott.com 

Images HERE  

 

Venice International Film Festival 2023 (30th August – 9th September 2023) 

Why Go: The prestigious Venice International Film Festival is set to take the floating city by storm again late this summer. Held on the island of Lido di Venezia, the festival’s unwavering popularity is amongst the highest echelon of the film industry. Venice International Film Festival is famed for giving the world’s best filmmakers artistic freedom to express themselves through film and celebrate major figures in the history of cinema. Entrants compete to win the Leone d’Oro (Golden Lion), which was awarded most recently to Laura Poitras’ All The Beauty And The Bloodshed, with other previous winners including Todd Phillips’ Joker in 2019 and Guillermo Del Toro’s The Shape of Water in 2017. 

Where to stay: Flanked by the striking Grand Canal with views across iconic landmarks including the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, The St. Regis Venice has held its prominent position in the city for over a century and a half. The hotel bursts at the seams with art and culture, having been inspired by Venetian masterpieces of former guest and Impressionist painter, Claude Monet. Those who choose to stay during the festival will be at the heart of it all, with the hotel playing host to opulent premiere events. The St. Regis Venice offers 169 luxurious guestrooms and suites, filled with natural light and bespoke furnishings, combined with the brand’s world-class hospitality that makes it a firm favourite of the world’s greatest stars.  

 

Marriott Bonvoy member rates start from £911 (€1024) per night. For more information, visit: www.marriott.com 

 

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San Sebastian Film Festival (22nd – 30th September 2023) 

Why Go: Renowned as one of the world’s most famous cinematic celebrations, the annual San Sebastián Film Festival will be once again held in Donostia-San Sebastián, attracting established producers and new cutting-edge directors to the Spanish city. With a rich 70-year history, this festival has been home to many memorable moments in film from hosting the international premiere of Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo to showcasing the European premiere of Star Wars in 1977. The coveted Golden Shell Award, awarded to the best film, is aptly named to reflect the festival's serene position on the Basque coast. Since its very first edition, the festival has channelled the magic of its surroundings, making it the perfect fit for those seeking a weekend of beauty, gastronomy and cultural captivation.   

Where to stay:  The iconic Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian takes pride of place in the city centre overlooking the Urumea River and the Cantabric Sea. The hotel’s restaurant, The Gallery, is a gastronomic paradise, elegantly celebrating the Basque Country’s world-renowned produce in an enchanting atmosphere. This year, coinciding with the San Sebastián International Film Festival on 29th September, the emblematic hotel will host the Maitia charity Gala Dinner, bringing together prominent figures from the world of gastronomy for an unforgettable evening of delectable food and dazzling entertainment.  

Marriott Bonvoy member rates start from £815 (€916) per night. For more information, visit: www.marriott.com 

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London Film Festival (4th – 15th October 2023) 

Why Go: The BFI London Film Festival is returning to the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall alongside cinemas across the West End and UK this October. Alongside the traditional celebration of short and feature films, in recent years the event has evolved to showcase television series and ground-breaking immersive entertainment experiences. A true celebration of cinema and entertainment, the festival screens over 300 films from over 50 countries as well as award ceremonies, gala dinners, premiere screenings and panels featuring esteemed actors and directors.  

Where to stay:  Situated in the heart of Leicester Square, home to London’s iconic film premieres, W London owns the stage in the epicentre of the city. Boasting its own Screening Room - the ideal location to host private pre-entertainment canapés and cocktails - this hotel is the perfect place to soak in the culture of film and cinema in London. W London echoes the creativity of the industry, with each of the 192 guestrooms and suites designed to have their own playful flare, with an unwavering dedication to comfort. The signature W beds along with the rainforest shower and luxe spa products make W London the ultimate location to recharge and relax during the exciting happenings of The BFI London Film Festival.  

Marriott Bonvoy member rates start from £547 (€615) per night. To book, or for more information, visit www.marriott.com 

Images HERE