Planning a summer trip to Europe and can’t decide where to go? Let us guide you to some of the most thrilling European cities this summer by train.
Music festivals, exhibitions, and summer parties in vibrant locations such as Belgium, Paris, or Amsterdam are waiting just across the railway. Europe truly blossoms in summer with colourful festivals and vibrant music events, often set against breathtaking backdrops like the Dutch canals in Amsterdam or the stunning stages in Belgium.
Here are some of the best European music festivals that are easily accessible by train from St. Pancras International.
Belgium Music Festivals
Tomorrowland 2024
Undoubtedly, one of the biggest music festivals in Belgium and the world, Tomorrowland is a must-visit. This festival brings together the best in electronic dance music with spectacular stages and an unforgettable atmosphere. This year will be even more special as Tomorrowland will celebrate its 20th anniversary.
You can start celebrating from the moment you begin your trip, making your journey to the festival an integral part of the experience. At St. Pancras International, we have become the gathering spot for both Tomorrowland veterans and newcomers, ensuring an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
Dates: July 19-21 and July 26-28, 2024
Location: Boom, Belgium
How to get to Belgium from London: Take a direct Eurostar train from London St. Pancras International to Brussels-Midi/Zuid Station, which typically takes around 2 hours. Once in Brussels, we recommend taking a train to Antwerp, where you'll find more accommodation options and better connections to Boom.
Want to know more about Brussels? Visit our destination guide.
Paris Music Festivals
Paris is not only the city of love, but also a hub for some of the best music festivals in Europe. The city’s rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife make it a perfect destination for music lovers. From sprawling parks to historic venues, Paris offers a diverse range of settings for music festivals that cater to all tastes. Here are some must-visit music festivals in Paris that will enhance your summer travel experience.
Fête de la Musique
Celebrate the summer solstice with this free music festival held in June. The streets of Paris come alive with music from every genre, offering a unique cultural experience. Various outdoor venues across the city host spontaneous performances by both amateur and professional musicians. The festival transforms public spaces into open-air concert venues, including parks, squares, and even street corners, creating a festive and communal atmosphere.
Interested to know more details? Find out more here.
Dates: June 21 2024
Location: Across France with a special display in Paris
Rock en Seine 2024
Rock en Seine is a four-day rock event and one of the most prestigious French music festivals. With more than 20 editions under its belt, it is the perfect blend of music and history.
The venue, a beautiful 17th-century park, provides a stunning backdrop for the performances. The festival is known for its relaxed yet exciting atmosphere, where attendees can enjoy not only the music but also art installations, food trucks, and various activities. The proximity to Paris allows festival-goers to easily combine their music experience with sightseeing in one of the world's most iconic cities.
Planning to infuse your trip to Paris with some of the most exciting events in the city? Read more details here.
When: August 21 - 25 2024
Where: Domaine National de Saint-Cloud, Paris
How to get to Paris from London: Direct Eurostar trains from St. Pancras International to Gare du Nord Station run several times daily, typically taking 2 hours and 17 minutes.
Amsterdam Summer Festivals
Amsterdam’s blend of history, culture, and modernity creates the perfect setting for some of the best music festivals in Europe. Whether you are dancing in a lush park, exploring art installations, or enjoying music along the iconic canals, Amsterdam’s festivals promise unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, book your train tickets, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime in the heart of the Netherlands.
Those are some of the Amsterdam music events that will be happening along this summer:
Milkshake Festival
A festival that celebrates diversity and freedom, Milkshake is known for its inclusive atmosphere and eclectic music lineup. Held in Westerpark, the festival promotes love and acceptance with a colourful and vibrant setting. The friendly crowd and diverse lineup make it a joyful and uplifting event which not only matches the character of a city but also is a must-see in your Amsterdam summer events list.
The celebration of love, individuality, and music, makes this event one of the most unique festivals in Amsterdam and the perfect add-on to your summer holidays.
Dates: July 27-28, 2024
Location: Westerpark, Amsterdam
Lowlands Festival
Lowlands is one of the biggest and most diverse festivals in the Netherlands, offering a mix of music, film, theatre, and more. Set in Biddinghuizen, near Amsterdam, the festival is known for its wide range of programming and high-quality production. This three-day event features more than twelve stages and creates a mini-city atmosphere, attracting a diverse crowd, from music fans to families looking for a fun weekend.
Dates: August 16-18, 2024
Location: Biddinghuizen, near Amsterdam
Lastly, we can't overlook the Grachtenfestival, a classic music event offering a serene atmosphere from August 23 to September 1 2024. Held in intimate, historical settings along Amsterdam's canals, it features concerts on floating stages and in picturesque courtyards, blending classical music with the city's architectural charm.
Planning to visit Amsterdam this summer? Browse our guide.
How to get to Amsterdam from London: You can catch a direct train from London St. Pancras International to Amsterdam with Eurostar, enjoying a comfortable journey that takes just 4 hours and 11 minutes.
Ready to experience the best European summer festivals? Book your tickets now and embark on an unforgettable journey. To ensure a smooth start to your adventure, arrive at London St. Pancras International with plenty of time to spare. This way you can grab a coffee, or purchase any last-minute items before boarding your train.
