There are few things that connect cultures better than music. Part of traveling is enjoying the local talent and culture, and what better way to do that than by checking out the local music scene? As your travels take you across the globe, there are some essential stops for you to make along the way.
Whether you’re looking to discover the newest up-and-coming band playing in the back of a small, dark venue in New York or you want to experience huge outdoor concerts and festivals, here are ten of the best music scenes to catch around the world.
1. Montreal, Canada
Montreal is a gorgeous place to visit no matter else what you do there, but jazz lovers will want to stop by in late June for one of the largest jazz festivals in the world. The festival goes on for more than a week and hosts some of the most talented musicians in the world in a bunch of terrific venues.
2. Melbourne, Australia
Some might say that Perth has a great music scene, but if you’re looking for the biggest and best shows in Australia, Melbourne is the place to go. Not only is it a popular stop for touring bands, but Melbourne has incredible good local music and comedy scenes as well. Plus, it’s just a beautiful place to visit.
3. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin has one of the most interactive and lively music scenes you’re likely to find. Enjoy live music in pubs and music venues and experience traditional Irish music as well as contemporary rock, indie, and folk bands.
4. Seattle, WA and Portland, OR
Between Seattle and Portland, the Pacific Northwest has the music scene covered. If you visit the rainy city of Seattle, be sure to check out some of the excellent live venues, see some local bands, and watch one of the many touring bands making a stop in this bustling city.
5. Roskilde, Denmark
Home to the Roskilde Festival, one of the largest music events in Europe, Roskilde sees the best musicians from around the world in the last weekend of June. Come for the music, but also enjoy the beautiful sights and local culture.
6. Santiago, Chile
If you’re looking for a giant party, go no further than Lollapalooza in Chile. The two-day festival held each April sees some of the greatest in rock music and hosts giant audiences. Enjoy loud, awesome music in a beautiful country with great food.
7. Petrcane, Croatia
The Soundwave Festival is more than just a weekend of concerts; it’s more of a pilgrimage for students and music fans every July. Stopping at popular places along the way, festival goers meet up before the event even starts for an all-around fun experience with a tight community of fans.
8. Tokyo, Japan
You can find just about anything in Tokyo, and entertaining live music is no exception. You’ll find everything from rock and pop to the experimental and bizarre (as well as a ton of talent).
9. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is well known for having a great alternative scene. If you’re looking for punk, raves, and electronica, Berlin will not disappoint.
10. Austin, TX
Austin is likely to surprise you with just how talented and diverse its music scene is. There are incredible bands from all kinds of genres — indie, folk, punk, rock, country, you name it — coming out of Texas, and Austin is the epicenter of the action.
Be sure to visit during SXSW (South By Southwest), one of the best music, comedy, and film festivals in the United States.
