TEFAF Maastricht 2026: The Insider's Complete Guide to Schedule, Venue & What to See

What You’ll Gain from This TEFAF Maastricht 2026 Guide:

• Key TEFAF Maastricht 2026 dates, venue details, schedule, and ticket information
• Must-see sections, artworks, and highlights across 7,000 years of art history
• Overview of TEFAF Talks, Summit, Art Business Conference, and Showcase galleries
• Tips to plan your visit, including the best days, timings, and on-site navigation
• First-time buyer guidance on purchasing art, documentation, VAT, and shipping
• Travel, transport, and stay recommendations for easy access to MECC Maastricht and the city centre

 

TEFAF or The European Fine Art Fair Maastricht is the premier art, design, and antiques fair in the world, bringing 277 reputed global exhibitors under one roof.

Showcasing 7,000 years of rich history and culture, the event will take place from March 14-19, 2026, with preview days (invitation-only) on March 12 and 13 at the MECC (Maastricht Exhibition & Congress Centre) in the Netherlands. 

This prime art fair in the Netherlands attracts the who’s who of the global art world, including dealers, buyers, aficionados, and historians. This guide tells you when to go, what to see, how to buy, and where to stay — everything you need to plan your visit.

What is TEFAF Maastricht?

TEFAF Maastricht covers 7,000 years of art history on a single platform, recognised as the foremost art fair in the world. It combines art, design, and antiques at the MECC in the Netherlands, while attracting collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts. It exhibits museum-quality pieces ranging from ancient to modern periods.

The fair's reputation and authority stem from its independent and stringent vetting, ensuring that its 270+ global exhibitors showcase only the finest quality, suitably attributed, and authentic artworks. 

About 200 experts in 30 specialist fields check each item for quality, authenticity, and condition before the opening of the fair. At the same time, the Vetting Committee is backed by the TEFAF Scientific Research Team, which deploys on-site technologies like X-ray fluorescence and 3D microscopes to find restoration and evaluate materials. 

The Art Loss Register, the biggest database of missing and stolen art, is used for checking every item. 

TEFAF 2026 will showcase 277 exhibitors across 24 countries, with expanded sections for Paintings, Modern & Contemporary Art, and Works on Paper. 20th-century design and premium modern jewellery will be in the spotlight, along with solo projects, curated presentations, and works by Nigerian ceramicist Ladi Kwali, Gerrit Rietveld (Dutch designer), and Robert Mapplethorpe. There will also be a stronger presence of top photography dealers this year. 

Dates, Venue & Tickets — All Practical Details

The official TEFAF Maastricht 2026 dates are 14th to 19th of March, with the venue being the MECC Maastricht. The event hours are from 11 AM to 7 PM daily, with the Art Business Conference scheduled for 13th March, 2026. 

The venue is conveniently situated in Randwyck, which is only 5-10 minutes by car or a quick train ride from the city centre. 

You can purchase TEFAF tickets from the official website, with registrations already open for the 2026 TEFAF Summit and TEFAF Talks. Tickets may also be purchased at the MECC Maastricht ticket desk. 

The TEFAF Meet the Experts sessions will be announced sometime later in February. The Collectors Preview on March 13 and professional previews are reserved for invited guests, such as advisors, leading collectors, and members of the press. 

There is a minor difference between the ticket from the website and the MECC Maastricht ticket desk. 

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What to Look for At TEFAF

TEFAF Maastricht 2026 will showcase a special selection of works that showcase 7,000+ years of art history. The fair will include museum exhibitions, business stands, and curated Talks programs, Meet the Expert sessions, and the TEFAF Summit, along with add-ons like fine dining experiences. Here are some of the other key highlights: 

• TEFAF Focus (3rd edition) highlights seven solo-artist projects, covering masterpieces of Scandinavian, Abstract Expressionism, and De Stijl design. There will also be Nigerian Modernism ceramics, French Realist painting, and American photography on display. 
• TEFAF Showcase galleries, with J.P. Morgan presenting its prize for recognising emerging exhibitors in this section. 
• TEFAF Summit on March 16 in association with the Netherlands Commission for UNESCO. The 2026 edition focuses on a more robust integration of art into the Netherlands’ public policy. The program will have talks and panels by 30 global thought leaders, experts, and policy advisors. 
• The Art Business Conference is a dedicated programme for collectors, dealers, and art professionals, covering market trends, investment insights, and the evolving landscape of the global art market.

Key Exhibitors You Should Look For

The TEFAF Maastricht art fair will host a stellar lineup of 277 exhibitors this year. Check the official exhibitor list and filter by section or country to plan your visit — TEFAF’s exhibitor directory is the single best way to mark must-see galleries before you arrive. These include the following: 

• Antiques
• Arts of Africa & Oceania
• Design
• FOCUS
• Jewellery
• Modern & Contemporary Art
• Modern Art
• Paintings
• Showcase
• Works on Paper

Go through the categories you’re interested in and make a note of the exhibitors/galleries that you absolutely have to visit. This will help you save time and maximise your visit. 

What to Absolutely NOT Miss at the TEFAF 2026

There are several attractions that you should NOT miss at The European Fine Art Fair 2026. The official sections include the following: 

• 3rd annual TEFAF Summit (March 16)
• TEFAF Talks
• Meet the Experts sessions
• Collector Talks 
• TEFAF Showcase with nine featured galleries across seven different countries. This section also has the J.P. Morgan Private Bank Showcase Prize
• Art Business Conference 2026 

You shouldn’t miss the masterpieces of Abstract Expressionism, De Stijl and Scandinavian design, along with expositions on African Modernist ceramics, American photography, and French Realist painting. Some of the top artworks to see include Self-Portrait Frowning (1630) by Rembrandt, Landscape-Factories (Paysage-Usines) dating to 1858-61 by Claude Monet, and Paul Gauguin’s Bouquets et ceramique sur une commode from 1886.

Some other attractions include Peter Paul Rubens’ The Boar Hunt: Tracing Authorship in a Wooden Panel discussion and the landmark gallery expansion showcase at the V&A, with the focus on the Gilbert Collection. 

How to Plan Your Visit to TEFAF Maastricht 2026

After booking your TEFAF Maastricht 2026 tickets, it is time to plan your visit to this mega art fair in the Netherlands. Here are some points worth noting in this regard. 

• Consider visiting on weekdays for calmer and focused viewing, since weekends are busier
• Mid-week (March 16-18) is usually quieter than the opening weekend 
• The closing day (March 19) is a good choice for a visit, although many items may be sold by then
• Preview days are usually invitation-only; they are only for serious buyers, press members, advisors, and global curators to attend/book previews wherever possible 
• If you’re a casual public visitor, it’s advisable to focus on the public days.
• Always check the opening hours and the venue at the MECC Maastricht before traveling 
• Expect to spend about 3-4 hours if you’re looking for a solid walkthrough to see the main highlights, and have 1-2 conversations with dealers 
• A full day is necessary if you are a buyer or want to explore multiple talks and sections
• Two days are ideal for visitors and collectors who want to combine their fair visit with a city tour
• The mornings are quieter, while the afternoons are usually better for programming and talks. arrive right when doors open at 11 AM for quieter galleries and easier viewing. Or visit between 3-7 PM, since the crowds thin out after lunch

Practical On-Site Tips

Here are some practical and helpful Maastricht TEFAF 2026 tips that will help you visit comfortably: 

• Wear comfortable shoes, since it is a sprawling venue, even though 90% of the fair is situated on one floor. There are elevators available for accessing other zones. 
• Pre-research exhibitors, marking the must-see sections/zones on a printed map. 
• Remember that suitcases, large bags, and umbrellas are not allowed inside, so use the cloakroom or available lockers. 
• Identify specialised sections and start with one or two areas before widening your scope. 
• The atmosphere is a sophisticated one; business casual or formal attire is standard for most attendees. 
• Do not miss the food offerings at the fair, reportedly you may have to settle for paid water options.
• Approach exhibitors politely and state your interest before asking for condition reports and invoices for purchases. You can also request a private view if necessary. 
• Assume limited photography and follow rules; always ask permission from exhibitors. 
• Carry a notebook or make notes on your phone. 

Buying Art at TEFAF: What First-Time Buyers Should Know

Here are some aspects worth knowing if you are a first-time buyer at TEFAF Maastricht. 

• TEFAF has a unique vetting process, which is one of the most rigorous in the global art world, thereby offering the highest level of security for buyers. There are several artworks for sale here. 
• Review the exhibitor list to identify galleries in your chosen areas, define your objectives, and watch out for the Red Dots at the fair, signifying that the item has been sold. 
• Approach and enquire with the exhibitor to learn more about the artist, provenance, and other aspects. 
• Ask about prices, since they are rarely shown on the wall. It is normal to ask about the price of an item. 
• Request documentation like the authenticity certificate and a detailed condition report, particularly for older artworks. 
• Account for additional costs, namely shipping, insurance, and professional installation. 
• Negotiations are not unheard of at the fair, especially if you are serious about the purchase. 
• Ensure you get the invoice before making your payment. 
• Ask the dealer about long-term care and conservation of your new acquisition, along with the right storage and display factors. 
• All sales at TEFAF include VAT (value-added tax). Note the VAT considerations for artwork purchase by non-EU residents and export regulations in this case. 
• Make sure you comply with digital registry and legal provenance requirements. 

How to Get to TEFAF Maastricht 2026

TEFAF Maastricht will take place at the MECC, which is just outside the city centre. The address is the following: Forum 100, 6229 GV Maastricht, The Netherlands. Travelling by train is the most convenient way to get to the venue. The Maastricht-Randwyck station is only 250 meters from the venue (3 minutes), while there is a regular Maastricht Central Station connection as well. 

Note that the Three Country Train runs twice every hour between Maastricht, Aachen Hbf, and Heerlen, along with once every hour between Maastricht and Liege. This ensures better connections to trains going to Paris, Antwerp, London, Brussels, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, and Cologne.

A bus leaves every five minutes from the Maastricht City Centre or Maastricht Central Station, heading to the venue (Forum MECC bus stop). If you are coming by car, follow the Liege Maastricht-Zuid sign to reach the venue. TEFAF has ample parking spaces available with a maximum walking distance of 10 minutes. Disabled parking is available in P4 and P1 as well. There are also 26 charging stations for guests and visitors at the P4 parking facility. 

Here are some other key points worth noting in this regard: 

• The City of Maastricht will have a free city shuttle service between TEFAF and the city centre (12-19 March) with multiple pick-up points. 
• Direct trains to Maastricht from Amsterdam take 2.5 hours, while the journey from Brussels to Maastricht-Randwyck takes 1.43 hours. 
• The Maastricht Aachen (MST) airport is only 15 minutes by car or taxi. 
• Brussels, Düsseldorf, and Amsterdam airports are within transfer times of 90-150 minutes.
• Parking costs are about €4.00 per hour and up to a maximum of €19 for each calendar day. 

Where to Stay for TEFAF Maastricht 2026

Choosing the right neighbourhood matters when you’re attending TEFAF, in order to minimise your journey/travel times and ensure higher convenience. Some of the top places worth considering for your stay include: 

• Wyck (near the station): It is ideal for convenience, nestled between the river and the train station. There are several trendy restaurants and boutiques here, along with artisanal cafes. You can take a short walk across the bridge to reach the city centre and get access to the railway networks as well. 
• City Centre/Vrijthof: It is the heart of the city, ideal for exploring museums, top restaurants, and famous streets. There are more premium accommodation choices here, with direct transport links and shuttles to the MECC. 
• Near MECC (Randwyck District): It is ideal for the shortest commutes and more efficiency. You can walk to the MECC or enjoy a tiny commute, with the area also being quieter than the main city centre. 

So, if you want speed and convenience, choose Randwyck, while the city centre is more about enjoying the unique atmosphere of the city. Staying near TEFAF will help make your stay and schedule flow like butter with no rush. 

Exploring Maastricht Beyond the TEFAF

Maastricht is a lot more than only TEFAF. The city offers thousands of years of rich cultural legacies, beautiful Maas River views, Michelin-starred dining, and multiple attractions. You can take a walk to the charming Vrijthof square with its multiple cafes and restaurants. Enjoy dining in the Restaurant Chateau Neercanne, a 17th-century castle with lovely terraced gardens. Marres Kitchen is located within the iconic Marres house and offers delicious Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. You can also venture to Amsterdam and explore the gorgeous sights there on an impromptu day trip.

Wander through the fascinating Old Town, crossing the Maas River, and viewing the quaint medieval city walls and Stokstraat quarter. Do not miss the Vrijthof Square churches, including the 13th-century St. Jan’s Church and the Basilica of St. Servatius. There are several local museums for a unique culture fix, including the popular Bonnefantenmuseum for its old and contemporary art, along with the Marres House for contemporary cultural experiences. And if you’re looking to round off your trip with Michelin-starred dining experiences, visit Brut172 that offers diverse menus with a focus on local ingredients. 

Conclusion

TEFAF is the world’s premier event for art collectors, curators, historians, and industry professionals. If you’re deeply connected to any of these categories or simply love art, this event is absolutely unmissable. Planning your visit early is recommended in terms of advance booking for tickets, accommodation, and arranging travel logistics. 

This is because the event is one of the world’s biggest art fairs and draws sizable crowds every year. From practical on-site tips and buying guides to accessibility, tickets, key attractions, and more, this guide will help you ensure a productive and smooth visit.

 

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FAQs

1. When is TEFAF Maastricht 2026? 

TEFAF Maastricht 2026 is scheduled from March 14-19 (public entry), with invitation-only preview shows lined up for March 12 and 13. The event is expected to attract innumerable global art collectors, curators, exhibitors, dealers, and aficionados this year. 

2. Where is TEFAF being held in 2026? 

TEFAF 2026 will take place at the MECC (Maastricht Exhibition & Conference Centre) in Maastricht, the Netherlands. The official address for the event is Forum 100, 6229 GV Maastricht. The venue is only a few minutes away from the Maastricht city centre. 

3. How do I buy tickets for TEFAF 2026? 

You can purchase tickets online through the official website or even directly from the MECC Maastricht ticket desk. Online tickets are more affordable, with weekday tickets being cheaper than weekend ones.  It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to lock your preferred dates and avoid longer wait times at the MECC. 

4. Are there preview days at TEFAF? Can anyone visit? 

Yes, there are preview days on March 12 and 13 at TEFAF 2026. The event will later open to the general public from March 14 to 19, 2026. The preview days are invitation-only, being reserved for collectors, special guests, press members, and industry stakeholders. 

5. Can anyone buy at TEFAF? 

Yes, anyone holding an entry ticket can attend the event and purchase art here, ranging from contemporary artworks to antiquities and older masterpieces. TEFAF offers an opportunity to purchase the finest-quality and stringently vetted works directly from exhibitors/dealers. 

6. What are the highlights of TEFAF? 

Some of the key highlights include a focused exhibition on Alberto Giacometti, along with masterpieces on display by Gauguin, Monet, and Rubens. There will also be 26 new galleries with an expanded collection of photography and modern art, along with rare antiques and Friedman Benda’s designs. 

7. Where should I stay for easy access to MECC? 

You can consider staying in the Randwyck neighbourhood for quick access to the MECC. Other options include the Wyck area nearby for smooth bus or train connections. You can also stay in and around the city centre for a more historical atmosphere. 

8. What are some tips for visiting TEFAF? 

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes to get around smoothly, be polite while enquiring with dealers, use public transportation to avoid traffic congestion and reach the venue smoothly, and aim to enter sharp at 11 AM or after lunch to avoid the crowds. 

9. Are there guided tours or talks at TEFAF? 

There are several talks at TEFAF lined up for this year, including the special TEFAF Talks panel discussions, TEFAF Summit, TEFAF Curator Course, and other discussions. You can check the programme at the official website and mark the talks you wish to attend in advance. 

10. How often does TEFAF occur? 

Both TEFAF Maastricht and TEFAF New York are held annually by the same foundation, although they are two distinct events. The former happens annually in March every year, while the latter takes place annually in May.