See The World: Make the Most Of Your European Music Festival

By Routeperfect Team
on May 30, 2018

Going to a European music festival this summer? Turn it into a holiday and discover somewhere new!

You’ve decided on a summer European music festival, bought your tickets, and convinced some friends to join in on the fun. Now that you know where you’re going, why not turn your European music festival experience into your summer getaway and explore a new country? With European music festivals in multiple exciting destinations such as Belgium, Hungary, Spain, and Croatia, there’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy good music and discover someplace new!

Tomorrowland: Discover Belgium

City: Boom, Belgium

Date: July 20-29

Music: EDM

Crowd: 400,000 in 2017

Headliners: Martin Garrix, Hardwell, Alesso, Armin van Buuren, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Axwell ^ Ingrosso, & more

One of the most iconic EDM festivals around the world, Tomorrowland in Belgium attracts a huge international crowd each year. While you’re there raving with your friends, why not take the opportunity to discover the country a little bit? Just north of Boom, discover the thriving cosmopolitan city of Antwerp, and explore its history, stunning architecture, and exciting nightlife.

Popular itinerary in Belgium:

After spending a couple nights enjoying Antwerp’s attractions, take a detour to the coast and spend a day exploring the scenic and quiet city of Knokke-Heist. From there, you can head to Bruges, known for being the “Venice of the North” with its scenic canals, castles, and Medieval architecture. Of course, your last stop after spending a night in Bruges is the capital, Brussels. Enjoy this culturally diverse metropolis and be sure to visit some of Brussels museums for a change of pace (there’s even a chocolate museum!).

Knokke-Heist, Flanders, Belgium – August 6, 2021: Zwin Nature Reserve. Purple Zwinneblommen (flowers native to Zwin) spread among green weeds in front of dunes under blue sky.

Sziget: Discover Hungary

City: Budapest, Hungary

Date: August 8-15

Music: Pop, Rock, Indie, Rap, etc.

Crowd: 452,000 in 2017

Headliners: Arctic Monkeys, Gorillaz, Kendrick Lamar, Kygo, Lana Del Rey, Mumford & Sons, Shawn Mendez, & more

Once you’re done rocking out at the Sziget Festival, take a few days to explore the unique and affordable country of Hungary. If you didn’t have time to explore the Budapest attractions during the Sziget Festival, we recommend spending a few days in this capital city. After the festival, you’ll probably need some R&R time. Luckily for you, one of the best things to do in Budapest is to relax at one of the city’s many bath houses. While you’re there, be sure to sample the city’s world-class nightlife and vibrant culinary scene!

Popular itinerary in Hungary:

Next, head north towards Sopron, a small town on the border known for its wine and beautifully preserved architecture. Spend a night in this quiet town before heading to a city the other side of the country, Szeged. From here, you can visit some beautiful national parks to see an entirely different side of Hungary.

The Main square in the old town of Sopron, important town in the western Transdanubia of Hungary.

Primavera Sound: Discover Spain

City: Barcelona, Spain

Date: May 30 – June 3

Music: Pop, Rock, Indie, Rap, etc.

Crowd: 200,000 in 2017

Headliners: Bjork, Arctic Monkeys, The National, A$AP Rocky, Migos, Lykke Li, Belle and Sebastian, & more

Take advantage of the Primavera Sound Festival’s location to discover all of Barcelona’s attractions, and explore all the sights, sounds, and tastes of this exciting city. Once the festival is over though, there is much more to see in Spain. From Barcelona, travel north to Palafrugell to recover on the beautiful Mediterranean beaches and explore the nearby islands.

After a few days of relaxation, move on to Jaca, a Medieval town near the border with France. Take a trip to any of the nearby national parks, where you can enjoy sightseeing and a wealth of outdoor activities. Once you’ve had your fill of Spain’s natural landscape, head back to the coast to Valencia. There are many things to do in Valencia, such as lounging by the beach, visiting museums or nearby wineries, and admiring unique architectural styles throughout the city.

Popular itinerary in Spain:

Ultra Europe: Discover Croatia

City: Split, Croatia

Date: July 6-8

Music: EDM

Crowd: 150,000 in 2015

Headliners: Steve Aoki, Hardwell, Afrojack, Armin Van Burren, The Chainsmokers, Marshmellow, & more

Visiting other destinations in Croatia while you’re there for the Ultra Europe Festival is a no-brainer. Boasting a beautiful coast, quaint islands, and clear water, there is no shortage of places to see in Croatia. After two intense days of partying, it’s time to kick back on a beach. There are many things to do in Split. Take time to enjoy this beautiful town on the coast known for its delicious local seafood. Spend a day or two wandering through the small streets and discovering the gorgeous cathedral and palace.

Popular itinerary in Croatia:

Take a ferry to Vis Island and visit Komiza. This coastal town is an ideal spot to wind down and interact with the locals. Spend a couple day here before heading back, and then organize a Mostar day trip from Split. Visit the enchanting town of Mostar and admire the scenic Old Bridge and the city’s beautiful surroundings.

Did we inspire you to extend your European music festival getaway and discover a new country? Great! Head to our trip planner to map out your perfect route in Belgium, Spain, Hungary, or Croatia.