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…

MAY

Primavera Sound, Barcelona

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.

JUNE

Metronome Festival, Prague

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!

Sónar, Barcelona

Sonar festival is a leading electronic music and arts event held annually in Barcelona, Spain. It blends cutting-edge music performances with art and technology displays. You can catch top international DJs, whether you visit By Day or By Night.

NRG, Tenerife

This weekend of beach, pool and boat parties is not to be missed! Get involved with day and night raves, then enjoy the balmy Canarian sunshine. This three-day event takes place along Tenerife’s south coast, and features a line-up of top, international DJs across multiple stages!

Hideout, Croatia

A 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.

JULY

FIB Benicàssim, Spain

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.

Isle of MTV, Malta

Welcome to Europe’s largest free music festival! Isle of MTV Malta is held in the iconic Il-Fosos Square, in Malta’s capital, Valletta. Open-air sets from international artists come as standard. Following the festival, you’ve got Malta Music Week to enjoy too, so why not make a whole week of it?

Ultra, Croatia

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.

AUGUST

Sziget Festival, Budapest

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

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.

SEPTEMBER

Captured Festival

Ibiza’s famed Driftwood Boat Party has made its way over to Malta as part of Captured Festival. We’re talking a two-day festival with lots of exciting events. Team that with an underground club and open-air pool party venue and good times are on the horizon.

BEONIX, Cyprus

Fan of all things electronic, house and techno? At this fun and futuristic festival, you’ve got three stages, 50 DJs and 30 hours of amazing music to look forward to. Held in Limassol, on Cyprus’ south coast, it’s ideal for sun-soaked days and bass-filled nights. Previous artists include Carl Cox and Jamie Jones!

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