Summer’s Hottest Ticket: Six Festival Destinations
After more than two years of silence in the fields and cities of the best-loved music events around the world, festivals are back with a bang. Organizers are clearly determined to remind festival-goers what they have been missing, with some of the world’s biggest and best artists headlining this year. Now that the world is finally opening up again we have selected six top destinations with the most anticipated music festivals of 2022 for travelers to get into the groove abroad, each offering something completely unique. From the muddy fields of Glastonbury to the chilled out beaches of Portimão, travelers can gather their tribe, grab the glitter and sunscreen and enjoy unmissable live acts, entertainment and accommodation – guaranteed to make summer unforgettable.
Glastonbury in Somerset, United Kingdom (22nd - 26th June)
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the annual festival of Glastonbury is back in 2022 to celebrate its 50th anniversary since it launched in 1970. The world-famous five-day festival features a stellar line-up of headliners including the legendary Paul McCartney and Diana Ross as well as newbies Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish taking to the iconic Pyramid Stage. Each area of the festival has its own character, with a whole host of stages from Arcade Spider to the new Glade Dome stage. Set in the beautiful Somerset countryside, famed for its charming forests, stunning beaches and wildflower meadows, the Worthy farm festival melds music with visual art, comedy, circus and cabaret – and a strong message of loving the planet. Nearby is Stonehenge, known for its ancient stone circle, and visitors can explore the deep history of the area with a Tour of Stonehenge, Glastonbury, and Avebury.
Where to stay: If camping is not your style, Middlewick Holiday Cottages are just a short drive from the festival site. Although it’s already been snapped up for the festival dates, guests can extend their stay in Somerset and experience a quintessential English break following the long five days of singing and dancing. With breathtaking views of Glastonbury Tor and on-site farm animals, guests will feel fully immersed in the English countryside. The quaint cottages also feature an indoor pool to refresh in, and a charming garden with barbecue facilities where guests can gather to refuel before another day of festival-going.
Afro Nation in Portimão, Portugal (1st - 3rd July)
Blessed with golden sand and glistening seas, Portimão is located on the western end of the Algarve coast where the Arade River empties into the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal town is also home to the world’s biggest afrobeats festival, Afro Nation, held each summer on the beautiful Praia da Rocha beach and featuring a selection of music styles from hip hop to R&B. Set across 125 miles (200 km) of coastline, travelers can bask in the glorious sunshine surrounded by the stunning red-rock cliffs and enjoy some of the world’s biggest artists including P-Square, Chris Brown, Wizkid and Megan Thee Stallion. With live performances and DJ sets over three days, travelers can party from dusk until dawn at the many boat and beach parties that take place alongside the main festival line-up.
Where to stay: Stunning vacation home Quinta da Várzea do Farelo features traditional converted houses with modern amenities, and provides a stylish and tranquil stay a short drive away from the beach. Bike rental is available for guests to explore the outdoors, and there’s an outdoor swimming pool with fantastic views of the Algarve to unwind. Enjoy fresh oranges from the trees in the yard for breakfast, and a range of delicious treats from the superb bakery next door. While it may be fully booked for the dates of the festival, guests can head to this quaint abode at the end of the festival season for a relaxing break.
Lollapalooza Festival in Chicago, United States (28th - 31st July)
Thousands from across the world have traveled to Chicago to experience this larger-than-life lakefront music event and one of the country’s longest running festivals. Located in the historic Grant Park, festival-goers will experience hip hop, heavy metal and electronic dance music against the shores of Lake Michigan and the city’s spectacular skyline of skyscrapers. This year, 170 bands from around the world will perform across nine stages including the mighty Metallica, Machine Gun Kelly and Green Day. Chicago is renowned for its food scene and visitors can savor delicious hot dogs, deep-dish pizza and tender barbecue ribs both at the festival and many restaurants and street food kiosks across town. When the festival is over, enjoy sundowners on a Two-hour Chicago Sunset Cruise, departing from Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and traveling up Lake Michigan through the Chicago River.
Where to stay: Level Chicago - Old Town is a sleek, high-rise aparthotel with self-catering apartments boasting fully-equipped kitchens and amazing views of the city – especially from the rooftop sun terrace. The property features barbecue facilities, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and a spa and wellness center where guests can wind down after a day on their feet. This property has a Booking.com Travel Sustainable badge and operates on a single plastic ban to support environmental efforts; cue paper or metal straw preparation to take to the festival.
Fuji Rock Festival in Naeba Ski Resort, Japan (29th - 31st July)
The jewel in Japan’s festival repertoire is an annual three-day rock music event located in the majestic mountainous Naeba Ski Resort. At an altitude of more than 3,000 feet (1,000 meters), the high-end resort is equally as beautiful in the summer months and easily accessible from the Japanese capital of Tokyo. This year, the Fuji Rock Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a slew of international stars from Vampire Weekend and Jack White to Halsey. With more than 200 performers across seven main stages, travelers can negotiate the largest outdoor music event in Japan via its many trails that offer spectacular views of the Niigata landscape. At the heart of the site is the Oasis, which stays open late into the night with Japanese cultural dances and food stalls; ravers can get their fix at the Red Marquee.
Where to stay: Hotel Cho features traditional wooden architecture and a choice of futon bedding on woven-straw mats (tatami), or more modern rooms with comfy beds. Located just a short walk away from the Naeba Ski Resort, guests can leisurely stroll to the action and conveniently retreat back at any time. Despite being fully booked for the festival itself, guests can head to this hotel outside of festival season to explore what the beautiful resort has to offer. The hotel offers free transport to Yukisasa no Yu hot springs, the perfect place to unwind in nature after escaping the crowds. Guests can also embrace the culture and experience local cuisine with Japanese set menus for both breakfast and dinner.
Osheaga Music and Arts Festival in Montreal, Canada (29th July - 1st August)
The largest French Canadian city, Montreal is located on an island in the Saint Lawrence River and is well known for its art, good food and festival scene. The Osheaga Music and Arts Festival is an event featuring indie and pop music across six stages, as well as a showcase of visual arts from installations to exhibitions in the Arts Village. Minutes away from downtown in the magnificent and leafy Parc Jean-Drapeau, this year’s world-class lineup includes Arcade Fire, A$AP Rocky, and pop darling Dua Lipa. As Canada’s leading music festival, Osheaga strives to offer something for everyone and promote eco-friendly practices; it’s also a place to play with rides, hammocks and a family-friendly Kid Zone set against the stunning Montreal city skyline. To get better acquainted with the city in style, head to the trendy bohemian district of Le Plateau, as well as a trip to the top of Mount Royal for breathtaking panoramic views of the Saint Lawrence River.
Where to stay: Auberge du Vieux Port is a cool and stylish boutique hotel combining vintage and modern decor – perfect for trendy festival-goers. A converted warehouse loaded with period details such as exposed brickwork, beams and wrought iron beds, it’s located in Old Montreal overlooking the rolling river and cobblestoned streets. The hotel is a short walk and ferry away from the festival, and offers French-style dining options for guests to refuel on.
Primavera Sound in Santiago, Chile (12th - 13th November)
Primavera Sound is making its South American debut in the eccentric and lively Chilean capital of Santiago this year. One of the biggest music festivals in Europe, the show is jumping over to a new continent with a stellar showcase of talent including the Arctic Monkeys, Travis Scott and Bjork. Alongside these global stars, the festival will also provide a platform for exciting rising talent from the local and national music scene. Located in the gorgeous hillside Bicentennial Park of Cerillos, acts will be performing at other sites across the city creating a truly immersive atmosphere for the weekend. With 49% of global travelers saying entertainment and nightlife are key factors in their destination decisions,** traveling to Santiago is the perfect spot to chase the party. An energetic and cosmopolitan city, nightlife takes off every day in the sidewalk eateries, cafes and beer halls as well as the many world-class restaurants and hotels.
Where to stay: For a luxury stay in the trendy Lastarria district, Hotel Magnolia features vintage decor in the heart of Santiago. With original stained glass windows and an impressive black-and-white marble entrance, rooms offer an oasis of rest with Egyptian cotton sheets for guests to sink into. A recognized Travel Sustainable stay, in addition to an array of more mindful practices in place, Hotel Magnolia gives talented local up-and-coming artists a platform to perform; guests can enjoy the backdrop of entertainment with a cocktail on the terrace, or a modern take on Chilean cuisine at the onsite restaurant. Just a short drive from the festival, it’s steps away from Santa Lucia Hill for incredible views of the city.
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*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 11,187 respondents across 11 countries (1,116 from Croatia, 1,014 from the United Kingdom, 1,011 from Netherlands, 1,010 from Canada, 1,009 from France, 1,009 from Sweden, 1,008 from Germany, 1,008 from USA, 1,001 from Israel, 1,001 from Spain, 1,000 from Italy). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be over 18 years of age or older and planning to go on a vacation in the next 4 months from May 2022. The survey was taken online and took place in May 2022.
**Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 48,413 respondents across 31 markets (2,000 from USA, 1,864 from Canada, 1,999 from Mexico, 2,003 from Colombia, 2,005 from Brazil, 2,002 from Argentina, 1,020 from Chile, 1,777 from Australia, 818 from New Zealand, 1,999 from Spain, 2,002 from Italy, 1,998 from France, 1,990 from UK, 2,005 from Germany, 2,003 from Netherlands, 985 from Denmark, 999 from Sweden, 910 from Croatia, 918 from Switzerland, 1,986 from Belgium, 998 from Russia, 953 from Israel, 1,999 from India, 1,990 from China, 901 from Hong Kong, 1,775 from Thailand, 1,001 from Singapore, 975 from Taiwan, 1,800 from Vietnam, 1,757 from South Korea, 1,001 from Japan). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have traveled at least once for business or leisure in the past 12 months, and planned to travel in 2022 and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place in January 2022.