Sziget Festival 2025

Every August, something magical happens in Budapest. As the summer sun glistens over the Danube, thousands of people cross a bridge onto an island that pulses with music, art, and freedom. You’ve arrived at Sziget Festival 2025 — one of the largest and most unique cultural events in Europe.

For six unforgettable days, Óbuda Island transforms into a dreamlike world of stages, colors, creativity, and connection. It’s not just a music festival — it’s a global gathering, a temporary city of over 500,000 people from all walks of life, where self-expression reigns and every corner has something to discover.

Thinking of going this year? Whether you’re a festival first-timer or a returning “Szitizen,” this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from lineup and ticket prices to transportation, camping, where to stay, what to pack — and even what to see in Budapest beyond the gates.

Get ready — because you’re not just attending a festival. You’re stepping into the Island of Freedom.

What is Sziget Festival and why is it so popular?

Imagine stepping onto an island in the middle of the Danube, where music flows from every direction, people from all over the world dance barefoot on the grass, and every corner hides a new discovery. That’s the magic of Sziget Festival — a temporary city of freedom, creativity, and celebration built each year on Óbuda Island, just north of downtown Budapest.

Launched in 1993 as a small cultural event for local students, Sziget has grown into one of Europe’s largest and most beloved music festivals, attracting artists, performers, and festival-goers from more than 100 countries. Whether you’re into electronic music, indie rock, techno, pop, punk, global fusion, or experimental art — Sziget has a space for you.

Visitors can expect:

• 6 full days of non-stop programming
• 1,000+ performances across 60+ stages and zones
• Art installations, circus shows, talks, workshops & wellness areas
• A truly international crowd from 100+ countries

Learn more on the official Sziget Festival website.

Is Sziget the biggest music festival in Europe?

It depends how you define “biggest” — but Sziget consistently ranks among the top festivals in Europe in terms of scale, duration, and diversity. With over 60 official stages and venues and a lineup that features more than 1,000 performances, it’s hard to find another event that offers this level of programming across so many artistic disciplines.

Quick comparison table:

While festivals like Tomorrowland or Glastonbury may have more fame in niche genres, Sziget’s strength lies in its multicultural, multi-genre approach. It’s a six-day adventure where music meets art, activism meets play, and the whole world comes together on one island.

How many people attend Sziget?

Each year, between 450,000 and 550,000 people attend Sziget Festival, making it one of the largest open-air cultural gatherings in Europe. Daily attendance can reach up to 90,000 visitors, especially on headliner nights.

People travel from across the globe to take part — not only for the lineup, but for the atmosphere. You’ll find groups of friends from Spain, solo travelers from Australia, couples from Germany, and backpackers from Argentina all mingling, dancing, and forming spontaneous friendships. It’s this international spirit that gives Sziget its nickname: Europe’s most global festival.

Is Sziget Festival safe?

Yes — Sziget Festival is considered very safe, especially for such a large-scale event.

The festival offers:

✅ 24/7 Szitizen Care program

✅ Trained medical staff on-site

✅ Security screenings at entrances

✅ Lockers available for valuables

The organizers run a dedicated safety and support initiative called Szitizen Care, which provides assistance for everything from lost wristbands to emotional support and first aid.

There is a strong on-site presence of security personnel, medical teams, and multilingual staff, and the festival has strict entry controls to ensure safety inside the grounds. Prohibited items (like alcohol, glass, drones, or dangerous objects) are screened at entry points, and the crowd control is managed effectively even during peak hours.

If you follow the basic safety guidelines, you can relax and enjoy Sziget to the fullest.

When is Sziget 2025 and how long does it last?

If you’re picturing a typical weekend festival squeezed into two or three days, think again. Sziget Festival is a six-day cultural marathon that takes over Budapest every August — and it’s designed to be much more than just a string of concerts.

What are the official dates for Sziget 2025?

The official dates for Sziget Festival 2025 are Wednesday, August 6 to Monday, August 11, offering nearly a full week of music, performances, and international encounters. Whether you’re going for the full six days or popping in for a single show, it’s helpful to mark those dates early — and book accommodation as soon as possible.

Unlike many festivals that save their biggest acts for the final days, Sziget spreads its lineup evenly across the week, with major headliners performing throughout. That means every day is worth attending.

You can follow the full schedule as it’s announced on the official Sziget program page, where daily lineups, stage times, and surprise acts are updated in the months leading up to the festival.

How long does the festival really last?

Technically, Sziget runs for six consecutive days. But in reality, the experience can stretch a bit longer — especially if you’re camping.

Some attendees arrive as early as Monday, August 4, using Sziget’s Early Move-In option to get settled, explore the grounds, and claim a prime camping spot before the main crowds arrive. Others stay an extra day after the festival ends to relax, recover, and say goodbye to the Island of Freedom.

So while the main festival runs from August 6 to 11, the real experience often spans August 4 to 12 for campers and dedicated Szitizens.

When does camping open and close?

If you’re planning to camp — and many people do — here’s what you need to know:

• Standard camping opens at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, August 6 (the first official festival day)
• Early camping access starts from Monday, August 4, but requires an extra Early Entry ticket
• The campsite closes at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, August 12, giving you time to pack and recover

Camping takes place directly within the festival grounds, meaning you’re always in the heart of the action. Whether you choose basic camping, glamping, or caravan zones, your Sziget days will start and end just steps from the music.

Check out available camping upgrades on the official accommodation page.

Who’s performing at Sziget 2025? Lineup and stages

It’s one of the first questions everyone asks when considering a festival: Who’s playing this year? With Sziget Festival, the answer is always broad, bold, and seriously exciting. The 2025 lineup promises to be no exception — featuring global superstars, underground gems, and everything in between.

When is the full lineup announced?

Sziget’s lineup is typically released in phases, starting around late fall or early winter, and building momentum throughout the spring. Major headliners are often revealed first, followed by wave after wave of new names — from chart-toppers to rising talent.

So far, many artists have already been confirmed, but more announcements will continue to roll out in the lead-up to the festival. You can follow updates directly on the official Sziget Festival program page, where schedules and lineups are published as they’re finalized.

Who are the confirmed headliners?

The Sziget 2025 lineup is shaping up to be one of its most eclectic yet — blending iconic global names with emerging artists from all corners of the world. These are some of the top acts confirmed so far:

• Post Malone
• A$AP Rocky
• Shawn Mendes
• Charli XCX
• Armin van Buuren
• FKA Twigs
• Empire of the Sun
• Amelie Lens
• Justice
• Papa Roach
• Michael Kiwanuka
• Don Diablo
• Steve Angello
• Little Simz
• Caribou
• Plus electronic heavyweights like Vini Vici, Miss Monique, Mathame, and Alok

But that’s just the beginning. The lineup also includes space for experimental scenes and local talent — from Japanese metalcore (like Hanabie.) to Balkan punk, indie collectives, and standout Hungarian acts like Co Lee and Elefánt.

Sziget has a history of promoting inclusivity and diversity in its music curation, featuring artists from politically and culturally diverse backgrounds. No matter your taste, you’ll find something that surprises and moves you.

How many stages are there and what can you expect from each?

If you’re wondering how this musical madness is organized… the answer is: on a massive scale. The Sziget programme spans over 60 stages and cultural venues, spread across the entire island. And each space has its own vibe.

Here are some of the most iconic:

• Main Stage (Nagyszínpad): The heart of the festival, hosting the biggest names every evening.
• Revolut Stage: A massive tent with a mix of international acts and local favorites — great for discovering new artists.
• BOLT Night Stage: The revamped Party Arena, this is where the DJs rule the night and electronic music takes over until dawn.
• Yettel Colosseum: A circular, open-air rave arena made of wooden pallets. Expect marathon techno sets and high-energy crowds.
• Magic Mirror: A hybrid venue for music, drag, talks, and LGBTQ+ programming — where culture and nightlife collide.
• dropYard: Dedicated to hip-hop, grime, street culture, and urban art — raw and full of energy.

But Sziget goes way beyond music. You’ll also find:

• Outdoor cinemas and indie film screenings
• Pop-up theater and dance shows
• Wellness areas with yoga and massages
• Art installations scattered throughout the island
• And even a beach zone with chilled DJ sets along the Danube.

Over 1,000 performances take place during the six days of Sziget — meaning there’s always something happening, day or night.

Photo by Vicky Hladynets on Unsplash

Where is Sziget Festival held and how do you get there?

Part of what makes Sziget so special is its location: a green, self-contained island surrounded by water, yet just minutes from the heart of a European capital. Getting there is surprisingly easy — whether you’re flying into Budapest or staying nearby.

Location overview – Óbuda Island in Budapest

Sziget Festival takes place on Óbuda Island (Hajógyári-sziget), a long, leafy island in the middle of the Danube River, located in District III of Budapest.

Throughout the year, Óbuda Island is a quiet, undeveloped park area. But for six days every August, it transforms into a mini-city of stages, tents, campsites, and art installations — known to Szitizens as the Island of Freedom.

Here’s what makes the location so convenient:

• It’s just 7 km (4.3 miles) from Budapest’s city center
• Surrounded by water but easily reachable by train, boat, bus, or bike
• Located near Margaret Island and the northern Buda side, making it ideal if you’re staying in Districts II, III, or XIII

📍 Google Maps link for Sziget Location: Óbuda Island – Sziget Festival Location

Getting there from the airport

If you’re flying into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), you’ve got a few reliable options to get to Sziget:

1. Public transport (recommended for budget travelers):

• Take the 100E airport bus to Deák Ferenc tér (city center)
• Switch to the M2 metro line heading toward Déli pályaudvar
• Get off at Batthyány tér, then transfer to the H5 suburban train toward Szentendre
• Exit at Filatorigát station, which is just a short walk from the festival entrance

Total travel time: around 1 hour

2. Bolt or Taxi:

• Bolt (Hungary’s version of Uber) is widely used and affordable
• Ride from the airport to Sziget takes 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic
• Costs around €20–30, but may increase during peak times

3. Sziget CityPass:

• If you buy the CityPass, you get unlimited public transport plus access to the Sziget Boat, spa discounts, and more.

Best ways to get there from downtown Budapest

From anywhere in the city center, the H5 suburban railway (HÉV) is the most efficient and popular option:

• Take the H5 line from Batthyány tér (on the Buda side)
• Get off at Filatorigát, the closest station to the festival
• From there, it’s a 7-minute walk to the K-Bridge entrance of the island

Additional options include:

• Boat transfer from Jászai Mari tér, which offers scenic views of the Parliament and Buda Castle
• Bus lines 34 or 106 from various districts in northern Budapest
• Night buses 923 and 934, perfect for getting home after headliner sets

Download the BudapestGO app to check live schedules, plan your trip, and buy digital tickets.

Can you drive? Where to park at Sziget

Driving to Sziget is possible — but it’s not recommended, especially during peak hours.

Here’s why:

• There is no public parking directly on the island or at the festival entrance
• Nearby streets can be closed off or restricted during the event
• Local traffic is often congested, especially in Óbuda and along Árpád Bridge.

If you must drive:

• Park in a P+R (Park and Ride) lot outside the city, like Békásmegyer or Újpest
• Then take the H5 train directly to Filatorigát

Some hotels in District III offer parking for guests, but spots are limited. Always check with your accommodation in advance.

Where to stay for Sziget Festival: Hotels or camping?

Whether you want to be close to the music 24/7 or return to a quiet bed at night, Budapest offers plenty of accommodation options for Sziget Festival-goers. From riverside hostels and hotel boats to glamping tents and caravan parks, the choice comes down to your budget, comfort level, and how immersive you want the experience to be.

Best neighborhoods and hotel options within 1 mile

If you’d prefer a real mattress and private bathroom, staying off-site is your best bet. The good news? You don’t have to go far.

The closest neighborhoods to the festival are:

• Óbuda (District III) – This is the area around the island itself, with several budget-friendly options
• Northern Buda and Margaret Island – Peaceful, green, and connected via public transport
• District XIII (Újlipótváros) – A little farther but still convenient, with good food and public transport

Here are a few hotels and hostels within ~1 mile of the Sziget Festival site:

Fortuna Boat Hotel

• A casual, floating hotel on the Danube, just across from Margaret Island
• Basic rooms, great river views, and unbeatable location
• A quirky, budget-friendly pick for festivalgoers looking for something different

Sziget City Hostel

• Built for festival fans — this hostel offers dorm-style and private rooms
• Great atmosphere for socializing
• Shared bathrooms, but super close to the action

Verdi Budapest Aquincum

• One of the most affordable standard hotels near Sziget
• Clean, simple, and within walking distance or a short tram ride
• Perfect if you want something quiet and comfortable

These places fill up fast. Book as early as possible and double-check for Sziget-specific packages, which may include breakfast or festival transport.

What is camping like at Sziget? (basic, glamping, caravans)

Camping is one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the Sziget experience. It keeps you close to the music, surrounded by festival energy 24/7 — and it’s surprisingly well-organized.

Here are the main camping options available for 2025:

Whether you go budget or premium, camping keeps you in the heart of the action. All areas have access to showers, lockers, and 24/7 security.

Check Sziget’s official camping page for current prices, maps, and packages.

Are there showers? Is it muddy? What to expect

Yes, there are plenty of showers available at Sziget, and they’re regularly cleaned — especially in the upgraded camping zones. Free basic showers are open to all campers, while premium camping areas come with their own private facilities.

As for mud? Sziget isn’t known for being muddy, especially compared to festivals like Glastonbury. But as with any outdoor event, sudden summer rain can make the ground slippery, especially in high-traffic areas. Bring:

• A lightweight rain jacket or poncho
• Waterproof shoes or sandals
• A microfiber towel (dries fast and takes up no space)

You can also rent lockers with USB charging ports, or even sign up for laundry services if you’re staying all week.

How much do Sziget tickets cost and what do they include?

With six full days of music, culture, and experiences, Sziget Festival offers a variety of ticket types to fit different travel plans and budgets. Whether you’re coming for a single day or staying the entire week, there’s an option that works for you.

Can you buy day passes to Sziget?

Yes — Sziget offers single-day tickets, which are perfect if you’re short on time or only interested in one or two headliners. Day passes give you full access to the festival site and all performances scheduled for that day, from morning yoga to the final DJ set.

Prices vary depending on when you purchase and which day you attend, but they typically start at €75 and increase as the event nears.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common ticket types for Sziget Festival 2025:

Good to know:

• Many of these ticket types offer payment plans, so you can spread the cost over several months
• VIP passes do not include backstage or artist access — they offer comfort upgrades, not exclusivity
• Camping upgrades (like Siesta or Glamping) must be purchased separately

Where to buy official tickets and avoid scams

The only safe place to buy tickets is through the official Sziget Festival ticket page or from verified partners listed on that site.

Avoid unofficial resale sites — while some may look legit, they often:

• Charge inflated prices
• Sell fake or duplicate QR codes
• Are not refundable or not accepted at the gates

Each ticket is linked to a wristband that is scanned upon entry. If your QR code has already been used, you will be denied access.

To be safe: buy early, buy directly, and avoid third-party marketplaces.

What can you bring to Sziget? Festival rules explained

Sziget is all about freedom and fun — but like any large event, it comes with a few practical rules to keep everyone safe and the festival running smoothly. Whether you’re packing light for the day or settling in for a full week of camping, it’s important to know what’s allowed and what’s not.

✅ What you can bring to Sziget

Here’s what you’re allowed to carry into the festival:

• 🧴 Empty plastic water bottles (max 2.5L) – refillable at free water stations
• 🎒 Small backpacks or bags – subject to inspection at security
• 🍎 Snacks or small amounts of food – only for personal, non-commercial use
• 📸 Phones and personal cameras – for your own memories (no pro gear)
• 🧥 Ponchos or lightweight rain jackets – always a good idea
• 🪪 ID or passport – required to pick up wristbands and enter the venue

You can also bring blankets, foldable chairs, reusable cups, and personal items for comfort, as long as they aren’t on the prohibited list.

❌ What you cannot bring to Sziget

Sziget enforces strict entry checks to ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone. These are the most common prohibited items:

• 🚫 Glass bottles or containers – breakable and a safety risk
• 🍾 Alcohol or energy drinks – not allowed at entry points
• 🎆 Fireworks or flammable items – serious fire hazard
• 🔪 Weapons or sharp tools – strictly forbidden
• 🛸 Drones – only allowed with prior approval
• ☂️ Umbrellas with metal tips – dangerous in crowded areas
• 🥡 Commercial food or drinks – no large coolers or bulk items allowed.

Tip: Security staff perform bag checks at all entrances. Confiscated items will not be returned, so double-check before you leave your hotel or tent.

Wristbands, re-entry & on-site rules

When you arrive at Sziget and check in, you’ll receive a wristband linked to your ticket — this wristband is your all-access pass to the festival. It allows you to enter the grounds, come and go throughout the day, and make purchases on-site. Just make sure to keep it safe and don’t take it off, as it’s scanned every time you enter or exit the venue.

Sziget operates entirely on a cashless system, so once you’ve got your wristband, you’ll need to connect it to a payment method online or top it up with cash or card at one of the many Festipay booths inside the festival. It’s quick, secure, and makes buying food, drinks, and merch much easier.

You can find the full list of entry rules and guidelines on the Sziget Festival General Policy page.

Tips for first-timers at Sziget Festival

Heading to Sziget for the first time? You’re in for an unforgettable ride. Whether you’re camping, staying nearby, or just coming for a day or two, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s what you need to know to feel confident and comfortable from day one.

What kind of food is available?

Sziget is a global food village — you’ll find something from nearly every corner of the world. From Thai noodles and Mexican burritos to classic Hungarian lángos, the festival offers a huge variety of cuisines across food trucks, tents, and international kitchens.

You can eat different meals every day without repeating once. Popular choices include burgers, fish and chips, goulash soup, Asian rice bowls, pizza, and gyros. Food courts are spread across the island, so you’re never far from your next snack.

Most meals cost between €4 and €8, making it easy to stay full without breaking your budget.

Vegan and allergy-friendly options

Yes — Sziget is very inclusive when it comes to dietary needs. Look out for clearly marked stalls offering:

• Vegan dishes like burritos, veggie dogs, and grain bowls
• Gluten-free and lactose-free meals
• Soy-free and nut-conscious alternatives
• Dedicated vendors like Vegan Love, Napfényes Foods, and Happy Churros

Most food stands display allergen symbols, and festival staff are trained to assist with questions. Still, if you have a severe allergy, it’s wise to carry a card or phrase in Hungarian explaining your dietary restriction — just in case.

What to pack for Sziget

Your bag will depend on whether you’re camping or commuting — but here’s a basic list to keep you prepared:

• Reusable water bottle – You can refill it at free water stations across the island
• Power bank – You’ll be taking photos, checking set times, and using maps all day
• Comfortable shoes – Expect to walk a lot on grass, gravel, and dirt paths
• Light jacket or hoodie – Nights can be cool, even in August
• Poncho or raincoat – Because summer showers are no joke
• Sunscreen and sunglasses – There’s plenty of sun, but little shade
• Festival essentials – Wristband, ID, payment card, and your ticket confirmation

If you’re camping, don’t forget your tent, sleeping bag, headlamp, toiletries, and a padlock for lockers. Many people bring earplugs for better sleep — and trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.

How drinks, water stations, and the cashless system work

All purchases inside Sziget are cashless. That means you’ll use your wristband to pay for everything — from drinks to food to merch. You can top it up online before the festival, or in person at Festipay stations around the site.

Water is free and accessible throughout the island via reusable water refill stations. Bring a sturdy bottle and refill often — August in Budapest can get very hot, and hydration is key.

Beer, wine, soft drinks, and cocktails are widely available. Bars accept wristband payments only, and menus are posted in both HUF and EUR for easy budgeting.

What to do in Budapest during the Sziget Festival 2025

Budapest isn’t just the backdrop for Sziget Festival — it’s a destination in its own right. A city filled with history, contrasts, architecture, and energy, it’s well worth setting aside a few hours (or days) to explore. If you’re spending more than a couple of days in the Hungarian capital during Sziget, we highly recommend discovering its most iconic neighborhoods. Each has its own story — and walking through them feels like flipping through the pages of a living history book.

Buda Castle District: history, views, and medieval charm

Located on the western bank of the Danube, the Buda Castle District transports you to another era. Think cobbled streets, ornate façades, and panoramic views across the city.

Highlights of this area include:

• The Buda Castle, once the residence of Hungarian kings
• The colorful-tiled Matthias Church, a gothic masterpiece
• The Fisherman’s Bastion, with sweeping views over the Parliament and river

You can dive deeper into this area with our dedicated guide to the Buda Castle.

Jewish Quarter: memory, street art, and nightlife

In the heart of Pest lies Budapest’s historic Jewish Quarter, a neighborhood marked by resilience, creativity, and renewal. Once the site of the World War II ghetto, today it’s one of the city’s most vibrant areas.

Here you’ll find:

• The Great Synagogue, the second largest in the world
• The haunting Tree of Life Memorial, dedicated to Holocaust victims
• Streets covered in murals and street art, plus cozy cafés and the iconic ruin pubs — old buildings turned into bohemian bars

Want to explore this district with more depth? Check out our Jewish Quarter walking tour.

Pest Side: the beating heart of the city

On the eastern bank of the Danube, Pest is home to some of the most recognizable landmarks in Budapest. Don’t miss:

• The majestic Hungarian Parliament Building, perched right by the river
• The grand Stephen’s Basilica, with its panoramic rooftop views
• Szabadság tér (Liberty Square), a place heavy with historical memory
• The powerful and poetic Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial

For more information, read our guide What to see in Pest.

Short on time? Here’s how to see it all without stress

Sziget is an experience you’ll never forget — but don’t miss the chance to let Budapest surprise you too. The good news? You don’t have to choose between the two.

Thanks to our free walking tours in Budapest, you can make the most of your time in the city. In just a few hours, you’ll discover its history, secrets, and soul — all with the help of passionate local guides who bring the past to life.