Finding open data faster: Explore combined and advanced search on the European Data Portal

Finding the right dataset on a large portal can be challenging. To make this task easier, the European Data Portal has introduced a combined search and an advanced search. With these new features, you can explore public data from across Europe quicker and with greater precision. Both features are part of quick search, so occasional visitors and expert users find what they need in just a few clicks.  

Combined search allows you to look for datasets, catalogues, and editorial resources such as news and country insights using a single search box. The search results are labelled clearly, so you see straight away what type of information you are accessing. For more targeted queries, advanced search lets you search within specific fields (for example, the description) or filter by date, country, publisher, format, keywords, language and other criteria. You can also sort and refine your results step by step until only the most relevant items remain.  

These features make it easier to discover and reuse open data published by EU Member States, institutions, and bodies. Being able to search across many catalogues and then narrow down by license or format helps users find data that is truly open, machine-readable and ready to use. This supports transparency, better research and innovation, and encourages more people to explore how open data can answer practical questions. Visit the quick search to try the combined and advanced search options for yourself. Start with a simple keyword, then use filters to focus on the data that matters to you. For guidance, consult our step-by-step guide on how to search for datasets. 

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