Unmissable European music festivals: get ready for an EPIC season!

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    Summer is such an awesome time to go travelling. Imagine yourself lying in the grass somewhere in Europe, sharing beers with mates, while listening to your favourite band. Or perhaps check out your favourite Kiwi band. Yes, many Kiwi acts have been played or will be playing at these European music festivals. What are you waiting for?

    Summertime in Europe means rocking, dancing and partying at one of the many amazing festivals. There are so many different music festivals being organised between May and August. And each one has an amazing line-up. Check out our selection of the best music festivals in Europe. Party on, music geeks.

    Belgium: Rock Werchter

    Experience a stellar mix of rock and indie legends in the heart of Belgium! Rock Werchter brings iconic names and rising stars together in an electrifying atmosphere, drawing fans from around the world. Expect a weekend packed with unforgettable performances and a top-notch sound experience.

    • Dates: 3 – 6 July 2025
    • Location: Werchter in Belgium
    • Line-up 2025: Green Day and Sam Fender will be headlining the 2025 edition. More names will be added to the line-up soon.
    • On-site camping: yes
    • Accommodation: great deals on accommodation close to the festival
    • More info: official website of Rock Werchter

    Belgium: Pukkelpop festival

    For adventurous music lovers, Pukkelpop offers a diverse lineup from indie and rock to electronic and hip-hop. With multiple stages and a laid-back vibe, this festival is a wild, genre-blending playground. Discover new favourites and big names in a vibrant, friendly setting.

    • Dates: 14, 15, 16, 17 August 2025
    • Location: Hasselt (Belgium) @ Kempische Steenweg, 3500
    • Line-up 2025: no line-up news yet.
    • On-site camping: yes
    • Accommodation: great deals on accommodation close to the festival
    • More info: official website of Pukkelpop festival

    Netherlands: Pinkpop festival

    One of Europe’s oldest music festivals, Pinkpop is a Dutch tradition with a modern twist. Expect legendary headliners, eclectic genres, and an energetic crowd. Its laid-back Dutch charm and lively atmosphere make it a perfect summer destination for music lovers.

    Netherlands: Down the Rabbit Hole (DTRH)

    Step into a surreal world of music, art, and nature at DTRH. This boutique festival in the Netherlands feels like a dreamland, with immersive installations, intimate stages, and an eclectic lineup. It’s a festival adventure where you can get lost and explore.

    • Dates: 4, 5, 6 July 2025
    • Location: ‘Groene Heuvels' in Beuningen, the Netherlands
    • Lineup 2025: no news yet
    • On-site camping: yes
    • Accommodation: great deals on accommodation close to the festival
    • More info: official website of the Down The Rabbit Hole festival

    Hungary: Sziget festival

    Located on an island in Budapest, Sziget is a music festival and cultural oasis combined. With an endless variety of music genres, art installations, and beachside relaxation, it’s like a week-long celebration of life. Expect a truly global festival experience!

    • Dates: 6 – 11 August 2025
    • Location: Budapest in Hungary
    • Lineup 2025: no news yet
    • On-site camping: yes, access to basic camping is included with your festival pass. Camping upgrades are available.
    • Accommodation: great deals on accommodation close to the festival
    • More info: official website of the Sziget music festival

    Spain: Mad Cool Festival

    Set in vibrant Madrid, Mad Cool brings together rock, indie, and electronic music in a sleek, modern setting. With stunning headliners and an electric Spanish crowd, this festival promises unforgettable nights under the warm summer sky. Perfect for those seeking big energy and big acts!

    Portugal: NOS Alive

    Known for its breathtaking oceanfront location, NOS Alive combines the best of Portugal’s coast with incredible music. With top-tier international acts, amazing food, and a relaxed, friendly vibe, this festival is perfect for travellers looking for sun, sea, and unforgettable music.

    • Dates: 10, 11, and 12 July 2025
    • Location: Passeio Marítimo de Algés (8 min from Lisbon) in Portugal
    • Line-up 2025: to be announced (TBA)
    • On-site camping: yes (5 minutes from the festival)
    • Accommodation: great deals on accommodation close to the festival
    • More info: official website of NOS Alive Festival

    Festivals in Europe for rock fans

    Ready to make it an even longer music festival road trip? Then have a look at these awesome rock & metal festivals in Europe. Never stop travelling, never stop rocking. It'll be a great festival year.

    Music festival pro tip: stream for free

    Can't make it to all the metal, rock, or punk festivals mentioned above? Most of these festivals have a free livestream that broadcasts a big part of the program. You just need to unlock the geo-block, and here's how to do it.

    Travel Geek

    We Travel. We Enjoy Life. We Share Stories. The Travel.Geek travel blog started as DIY-OE travel blog but morphed into Travel.Geek.NZ after a few years. The new name just made more sense. We create articles about combining travelling with tasty or fun things like craft beer, live music, local food and the geek side of life. Check out the latest travel blog posts.

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    One response to “Unmissable European music festivals: get ready for an EPIC season!”

    1. Mia Williams Avatar
      Mia Williams

      I & my wife recently got our visa and were looking for a travel guide that will help us navigate different festivals of Portugal. Although I got some guides, I recently came across your post and it aptly describes the best places to festivals to experience. I will be sharing this blog with my wife and then we will finalize our accommodation and places to visit in different cities. Keep sharing such helpful posts.

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