Euro Sun & Festival Fun
Summer Sun Holiday Festival
Getaway Festival Fun
Who doesn’t love a summer sun holiday? The idea of a week of sun, sea and sand sounds like absolute bliss after coming through a year of Ireland’s unpredictable weather. This may sound like the perfect time for many of us, but taking a little bit of time to soak up some local culture could elevate your normal sun getaway to a unique break that will stand out from all the others. Whether you're in search of family-friendly summer festivals in Spain or Italy, or looking for a unique holiday in Portugal we might have something for you. Finding yourself in the midst the vibrant sights, sounds and smells of a Mediterranean festival is a moment your whole family will cherish forever. Getting the chance to meet local people and experience truly local traditions is something you should definitely jump at and luckily, we put together a small selection of some of the best lesser-known Mediterranean festivals for ideal for couples and families taking place around Spain, Portugal and Italy this summer you should consider visiting.
You can browse a huge selection of discounted hotels across Ireland and abroad with our partner hotel provider Getaways Ireland and if you book a 3 night stay before July you can avail of an additional €30 off your stay when you use the promocode SUMMER30 at check-out.
1. Visit Malaga, Spain this Summer
Malaga Feria – August 12th – 19th
Planning a visit to the Costa del Sol? Take the chance to sunshine immerse yourself in vibrant culture at the Malaga Feria, a dazzling week-long festival held annually in August. This fiesta isn't just a party; it's a celebration steeped in history with the festival’s origins dating back as far as 1487 and the city’s recapturing of the by the Catholic Monarchs.
The city transforms into open air party to delight your senses with flamenco dancers, ever present sounds of music and the aroma of sizzling tapas filling the streets. During the day, the historic city centre comes alive with parades, street performers, and lively bars and as night falls, the party moves to the "ferial," a dedicated fairground bustling with marquees serving delicious food and local wines.
Other Things to do in Malaga
- Visit the Pablo Picasso Museum
- Visit ancient Alcazaba palace
- Visit the Moorish Baths
- Visit Atarazana Food Market
- Walk part of the Caminito del Rey
Where to stay in Malaga
Affordable hotels near Malaga Feria
- B&B Hotel Malaga Centro
- 3 Star
- €138 per night Room Only
- View Hotel Here
Treat Yourself
- Room Mate Valeria
- 4 Star
- €215 per night B&B
- View Hotel Here
Search Malaga Hotels in August
2. Visit Menorca, Spain this Summer
Menorca Horse Fiestas – July & August
The middle child of the Balearic Islands, Menorca is often overlooked when considering a sun holiday to the Med. Generally seen as a quieter of the three islands yet it offers equally stunning beaches and clear waters. Menorca also offers one of the more unique festival experiences, with the island essentially becoming a non-stop fiesta during July and August with the Menorca Horse Fiestas. During these months each town on the Island takes turns to celebrate the island’s town and their close relationship to the Menorcan Horse. The festivities are a blend of religious processions, lively music, and the heart-stopping "Jaleos". Here, riders in traditional dress guide their horses to rear up on their hind legs, creating a thrilling spectacle. Menorca's Horse Fiestas are more than just a spectator sport; they're a chance to immerse yourself in Menorcan culture. Mingle with the locals and witness a centuries-old tradition come alive.
Other Things to do in Menorca
- Visit Port of Mahón
- Boat Trip to Trebalugar
- Swim at Cala Pregonda
- Visit Aqua Center Water Park
Places to stay in Menorca.
- Boutique Hotel Sant Roc and Spa
- 4 Star
- €230 per night Room Only
- View Hotel Here
3. Visit Pisa, Italy this Summer
Musicastrada Festival - July 12th - August 4th
Pisa is not the first place that comes to mind when you ask the question “Where to go on sun holiday?”, but that could be about to change. Aside the from the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, it also boasts a selection of museums ranging from art to natural history to maritime as well as a stunning coastline of beaches – both private and free. Pisa as a holiday destination provides a delightful mix of history, cuisine, art, architecture, natural beauty and of course lazy beachside opportunities. But if you take some time to venture outside the city in July you could find yourself in the midst of the utterly charming Musicastrada Festival.
This isn't your ordinary festival. It's an adventure in sound, running from July 12th to August 4th, 2024 across 28 towns in the Tuscan countryside.
Free concerts, attracting crowds from 100 people to 800 people, boasting a range of international music from afro beats to electronica it caters to all musical tastes. Soak up the atmosphere, savour delicious local cuisine, and discover genuine hidden gems as you travel from town to town. It's the perfect blend of cultural immersion and musical discovery.
(Credit: Francesco Luongo)
Other Things to do in Pisa
- Visit Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Take a trip to Florence and visit the Ponte Vecchio
- Visit the Market in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele
- Book a space at a private beach and stay all day
Places to stay in Pisa.
On a budget
- Christian Bed & Breakfast
- 4 Star
- €95 per night Room Only
- View Hotel Here
Treat Yourself
- NH Hotel Pisa
- 4 Star
- €204 per night B&B – Superior Room
- View Hotel Here
