NOS Alive

NOS Alive is Portugal's premier music festival and one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Set along the Tagus River in Algés, just outside Lisbon, it combines top-tier lineups with the laid-back Portuguese lifestyle, incredible food, and some of the best weather on the continent. Three days, 165,000 attendees, and consistently stellar bookings — Radiohead, The Cure, Arctic Monkeys, and Kendrick Lamar have all headlined. The Main Stage faces the river, and the sunset sets during evening performances are unforgettable. Lisbon is one of Europe's most exciting cities right now. Alfama's fado bars, Time Out Market's food hall, the tram 28 ride, and the Belém pastéis are all essential. And everything is remarkably affordable compared to Western European capitals. Getting there: Lisbon Airport (LIS) is 20 minutes from the city center. The Cais do Sodré train line stops at Algés station, a 5-minute walk from the venue. Pro tip: Come for the festival, stay for Lisbon. Book a week — you will not regret it. The festival crowd skews music-obsessed and friendly. Portuguese food and wine at the festival are leagues above typical festival fare.