When it comes to summer, can you think of one single thing that’s better than a music festival? What’s that? A music festival under the sun? Okay, fair point. Here are some of our faves…

Primavera Sound, Barcelona

May

Just when we thought Barcelona couldn’t get any cooler, this hipster city went and launched a music festival. Primavera Sound has gone from strength-to-strength since its humble 2001 roots, and today more than 200,000 fans make their way here for this famous three-day event.

AMP lost and found, Malta

June

In June, all roads lead to the biggest, loudest festival in Malta – AMP Lost and Found. The brainchild of veteran DJ Annie Mac, this four-day, star-studded event makes the most of its rugged island location. Where else can you enjoy relaxed beats at a pool party, rave among ancient ruins and watch some of the biggest names in electronic music take to the stage – all in one day?

Metronome Festival, Prague

June

If your idea of festival heaven is enjoying a mix of genres across multiple stages in postcard-perfect locations, then this one should be right up your street. This four-day musical bonanza includes everything from jazz to pop and a line-up that showcases both world-class acts and local bands. Is there a better way to kick off your summer? We don’t think so!

Benicàssim, Mainland Spain

July

When past years’ artists have included Florence and the Machine, Major Lazer, Pet Shop Boys and Muse, we know this annual Spanish soiree’s onto a good thing! Held over four days, Benicàssim is a pop, rock, indie hybrid that’s been going strong for over two decades. What’s more, the region has an average temperature of 26 degrees during the month of July. No wonder it’s become one of the best-known festivals in Europe.

Hideout, Croatia

July

A five-day feast of house, techno, grime and garage – Hideout is one of the hottest tickets on the summer circuit. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better backdrop for a festival than the golden shores of Pag Island’s Zrce Beach. Events take place across five world-renowned beach clubs, where the best in the business show off their talents. Expect clear skies, secret after-parties and not a pair of mud-soaked wellies in sight.

Ultra, Croatia

July

In July, worldwide festival brand Ultra takes over Split and the surrounding islands for a three-day electronic music extravaganza. There’s always an impressive roster of headliners, from A-list artists to under-the-radar acts. Spectacular stage productions are a given, with pumping pyrotechnics and out-of-this-world light shows. The sun-drenched location means that festivalgoers can recharge in the rays before the all-night party kicks off.

Sziget Festival, Budapest

August

There’s no denying it – Europe loves a good festival, and Sziget in Budapest is one of the largest! Each year people flock from across the globe to see over 1000 shows take place across an incredible 60, (yes 60!) stages. One for the art and culture fans, Sziget is so much more than just a music festival; there’s a circus, museum quarter, a theatre and more. The festival also has a focus on environmental sustainability too. Sold!

Rock en Seine, Paris

August

Ooh la la, did someone say a festival in Paris? Yep, this pop and rock hybrid is held in a picturesque park, with five stages, 65 bands and more than 120,000 fellow music fans! In the past, Arctic Monkeys, Blink-182, REM and Foo Fighters have taken to the mic, and we expect this year’s roll call to be just as impressive.

So, have you decided which festival’s for you?