Planning a summer trip: What are the absolute must-visit music festivals in Europe?

I am currently in the process of planning a backpacking trip across Europe for this coming summer and I really want to incorporate a few major music festivals into my itinerary. I am open to all genres, but I am particularly interested in events with a great atmosphere and unique locations. Which European festivals do you think are truly worth the ticket price, and are there any specific tips for navigating the crowds or camping options?

Primavera Sound in Barcelona is unbeatable. The city vibe combined with the Parc del Fòrum location is iconic. Just make sure you pace yourself because the sets go until sunrise!

If you want a unique location, Tomorrowland in Belgium is a fantasy world. It's expensive, but the production value justifies every cent. Book your Global Journey package early.

Glastonbury is the ultimate bucket list festival, but good luck getting tickets! If you go, bring high-quality wellies; the mud is legendary and part of the experience.

Sziget in Budapest is perfect for backpackers. It's on an island in the middle of the Danube, and since you're already in the area, you should check out these historic castles nearby for a cultural break.

Exit Festival in Serbia is held inside a literal fortress. It’s incredibly atmospheric and much cheaper than Western European festivals. Highly recommend it for budget travelers.

Roskilde in Denmark is great, but the camping culture is intense. If you want a bit more comfort, look into the 'Pre-pitched' or 'Glamping' options if they are available for your chosen dates.

For electronic music lovers, Awakenings in the Netherlands is the gold standard. The production is flawless, but it's a marathon, not a sprint.

Don't ignore the smaller festivals like Melt! in Germany. It takes place in an industrial park with giant iron machines—it's a photographer's dream.

If you are traveling alone, always prioritize your well-being. I found some great safety advice for solo female travel in Europe that really helped me feel confident while navigating festival crowds.

Rock am Ring in Germany is massive. The main stage is inside a race track, which is a wild setting. Just be prepared for a lot of walking.

NOS Alive in Lisbon is fantastic because it's near the beach. You get to spend your days by the ocean and your nights seeing world-class headliners.

Hellfest in France is the place to be if you love metal. The art installations are unlike anything else in the festival circuit.

Tips for crowds: always pick a meeting point with your friends as soon as you arrive, because cell service is non-existent when 50,000 people are trying to upload videos at once.

Lollapalooza Paris is great if you want to mix a festival with a city break, but stay in an Airbnb outside the immediate city center to save some cash.

Don't overpack your backpack. You will regret it the moment you have to haul your gear from the train station to the camping entrance. Bring a portable charger and a hydration pack!