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Bucket list experience:

aerial view of disc jockey spinning with coloured lights around

Last updated: 03 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Dana Facaros

The great and good of electronic music descend on Barcelona for three days each June, to explore a plethora of dance music styles and evolutions.

This is Sonar, a huge festival in and around the city, and arguably the world’s premier dance music festival.

The event attracts headliners and experimental talent, though the prime aim of hosting one hell of a party is still its driving force. Ole!

Price from: £35
Minimum age: 18
Age suitable: 18+
Frequency: annually
When: 3rd weekend of June
Duration: 3 days

Getting there & doing it

By day, events take place in the Fira de Montjuic. By night, many events take place in the conference venue of Fira Gran Via (Avinguda Botánica, 62) on the outskirts of the city. Purchase a SonarPro Accreditation Ticket online, which includes admission to all Day and Night events, free bus transport and access to various Pro areas and the official hotel terrace. All main events are ticketed. There are a number of outlets for tickets; purchase on the website, via phone or at select stores (see website for this and comprehensive listings).

When to do it

The festival takes place on the 3rd weekend of June each year.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Grand Hotel Central

Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

A stylish, central hotel in the hip El Born district, with 1920s features and one of the best rooftop pools in town.

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Hotel Neri

Barcelona, Catalunia, Spain

Historic charm, contemporary chic and great food combine in this beguiling bolthole, on a picturesque square in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.

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Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

The MO boasts spectacular interiors, a world-class spa, double-Michelin starred restaurant and an unparalleled location on the beautiful Passeig de Gracia.

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W Barcelona

Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

This sceney, architectural waterfront hotel comes with edgy design, a party-feel pool terrace and sweeping Mediterranean views.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Barcelona

Catalonia, Spain

Spain’s cultural heart has unforgettable architecture, a pioneering arts scene, creative cuisine and nightlife that buzzes till dawn.

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