Top 25 European Festivals

For many people, there's not much which can beat the thrill of attending a festival but all too often in the UK, that means battling your way through thigh high mud and enduring stormy weather. The good news is that the continent holds a number of festivals which offer the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere without getting soaked to the skin at the same time.

Here's a guide to 25 top festivals across Europe that are worth a visit.

Belgium

The country which is famed for its chocolates is home to a number of festivals attended by thousands of fans every year. Couleur Cafe in Brussels (urban, dance hall and Latin), Dour Festival in Dour (cutting edge from all genres) and Tomorrowland in Boom (the Glastonbury of house and trance) are three of the best.

Croatia

A country with a surprisingly high number of festivals taking place away from typical tourist destinations. Dimensions and Outlook in Pula (underground techno and soundsystem respectively), the Echo Festival in Makarska (house and bass) and Hideout in the Island of Pag (electronica) are some of the most popular. Tisno has several throughout the year including Electric Elephant (think Ibiza in the 70s), Stop Making Sense (jazz, folk and Latin), Soundwave (soulful, gentle and inspiring - quasi-new age) and the Garden Festival (independent acts).

Germany

The Ferropolis peninsula is a peaceful location apart from July when the Melt Festival hits town (indie and electronica). Nurberg shakes its booty to Rock am Ring in June (hard rock) whilst Bremen hosts the Hurricane Festival (indie and alternative).

Poland

Poland is not a country many associate with music festivals but they have several including Woodstock Poland (local bands), Heineken Open'er festival (big name Indie bands), Coke Live (chart artists such as Snoop and Placebo) and Sonisphere (a Europe wide rock festival).

Spain

If you want some sunshine with your music head to Arenal Sound (chart alternative), Bennicassim International (everything from Bob Dylan to Dizzee Rascal), Creamfields Andalucia (dance), Rock Coast (indie and rock) or Montenegros (dance and electric).

Ireland

For those wanting to stay closer to home, a trip over the Irish Sea offers the delights of Forbidden Fruit Festival (rock, pop and dance) and Electric Picnic (folk, pop and rock).

Wherever you end up going, festivals are a wonderful way to have fun in the summer sun and enjoy some great music at the same time. However, like any event where there are large crowds, there is always the risk of losing your personal belongings to pickpockets and thieves. Investing in a money bag you can hang around your neck and tuck under your top might help to protect your cash from wandering hands. However, also investing in travel insurance will help provide you with peace of mind knowing your valuables are covered, leaving you free to dance to your heart's content!