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Hellfest is the biggest metal festival in France — four days of metal, rock and punk in the village of Clisson, near Nantes. A bucket-list pilgrimage for heavy-music fans, it packs 180+ bands across six stages with huge headliners and a legendary atmosphere. This guide covers the dates, how to fly in, where to stay, and how to keep costs down.
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When to go: the music calendar
- Hellfest — held each June in Clisson, near Nantes, France (the 2027 edition (20th anniversary) runs June 17–20). Confirm the next edition’s dates on the official Hellfest site — it sells out fast, often the year before.
- The lineup — 180+ bands across six stages spanning classic metal, thrash, death, punk and hard rock, with headliners like Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Deep Purple and more.
- The experience — four days of camping, extreme-music devotion and a famously good-natured crowd. Expect summer heat.
Getting there: flights to Nantes (NTE)
Fly into Nantes Atlantique (NTE), about 30 km from Clisson, with European links; Paris is an alternative with a fast TGV to Nantes. There’s a train from Nantes to Clisson plus festival shuttles. Set a price watch and secure tickets first.
→ Search flights to Nantes (NTE)
Where to stay (matched to your trip)
- Festival camping — the true Hellfest: camp on-site for all four days, from basic to “comfort” camping.
- Clisson town — limited guesthouses in the pretty village a short distance from the site; book very early.
- Nantes — base in the city for hotels and nightlife and commute by train/shuttle (about 30–40 minutes).
Getting around
Most people camp and walk; otherwise take the train from Nantes to Clisson plus a shuttle, or drive. France uses the euro; the festival runs a cashless top-up. Plan arrival early to beat queues.
Pack for a French-summer field: sun protection, a refillable bottle, earplugs, and rain cover just in case. It’s a campout, so bring supplies.
Airport transfer
Pre-book a private transfer from Nantes toward Clisson or your hotel.
→ Pre-book a private airport transfer with Kiwitaxi
Stay connected: get an eSIM
A local data eSIM keeps maps, train times and mobile tickets working the moment you land.
→ Get an Airalo eSIM for France
Explore by car
A rental helps for the village/camping and exploring the Loire around the festival.
→ Compare and book a rental car
Sample budget — 4 days, festival (per person)
| Item | Budget | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Flights (within Europe) | $90 | $300 |
| Festival ticket + camping | $330 | $420 |
| Gear / comfort camping | $50 | $300 |
| Food + beer | $140 | $320 |
| Train/shuttle, transfer, eSIM | $70 | $150 |
| Total | ~$680 | ~$1,490 |
Money-saving tips
- Buy tickets the moment they drop — Hellfest sells out far ahead.
- Camp and bring your own supplies.
- Fly into Nantes on a fare dip, or Paris + TGV.
- Use the cashless top-up sensibly and stock basics before the site.
- Travel in a group to split car, gear and a plot.
Plan your Hellfest trip
Secure tickets first, then watch fares into Nantes and sort camping or a Nantes base with the train/shuttle.
Frequently asked questions
When is Hellfest?
Each June in Clisson, France (the 2027 edition (20th anniversary) runs June 17–20). Confirm the next dates on the official site and buy early — it sells out.
How do I get there?
Fly into Nantes (NTE), then train to Clisson plus a shuttle, or drive (~30 km). Paris + TGV to Nantes also works.
Do I camp?
Most do — on-site camping for four days. Limited guesthouses exist in Clisson, or base in Nantes and commute.
What music is it?
Metal in all forms plus hard rock and punk — 180+ bands across six stages, from legends to extreme acts.