The European Commission has proposed in its website some interesting festival in which to have fun this summer. With this initiative, it wants to show how Europe is rich in different cultural offers.

The Commission reminds that this summer could be the opportunity to visit the 2011 European capitals of culture, Tallinn (Estonia) and Turku (Finland). Tallinn is highlighting its medieval heritage and maritime past, while Turku's programme focuses on the importance of culture for wellbeing and the environment.

In addition, summer in Europe is a season of festivals, a chance to enjoy some of the continent's finest cultural offerings. From classical and modern music, to theatre, photography and puppetry. Here are some of its recommendations:

• In August in Spain is Torroella de Montgrí's celebration of Catalonia's rich musical tradition. The Spanish town holds classical concerts throughout the month. Also in Spain, there is the Santander's international arts and culture festival, which balances the traditional with the avant-garde. The city hosts music, dance, theatre and recitals during August.
• Another stop for festival fans is Vienna, where the largest European contemporary dance festival runs until 14 August.
• Slovenia's capital Ljubljana presents a diverse programme of international music, dance, street theatre and art exhibitions over two months to 7 September. Visitors can go to a classical Liszt concert one night and a few days later see the rock musical Hair.
• In Belgium there is the summer Wallonia's festival of classical music français, taking place in a number of cities and towns through to 16 September.
• Photography fans can visit the annual photography festival in Arles, France, where thousands of images are on display during August to 18 September. Also in France, puppets are the main feature of Charleville Mézières' annual Festival Mondial des Theatre de Marionnettes français, from 16-25 September.
• International thinkers from around the world take one another on in the Italian town of Modena, in its philosopy festival italiano with 200 events from 16-18 September.

Many of these recommendation receive funding from the EU's culture and media programmes, which according to the Commission help promote intercultural dialogue and encourage the movement of artists and artworks around Europe.