The Best European Cities for Music Lovers: Record Shops, Venues and Festivals

Some cities are built for music. Whether you love digging through crates of vinyl, catching a gig in a small club or listening to an orchestra in a gilded concert hall, these European cities deliver.

The cities

1. Copenhagen

Denmark's capital has a thriving electronic and jazz scene, excellent independent record shops and the Copenhagen Jazz Festival every July. The Royal Danish Opera and the DR Concert Hall host classical performances.

2. Berlin

From legendary techno clubs to record shops in Kreuzberg and Neukölln, Berlin is one of the world's great music cities. Look out for flea markets with second-hand vinyl at weekends.

3. Vienna

The capital of classical music. See an opera at the State Opera (standing tickets are very cheap), hear the Vienna Philharmonic at the Musikverein and visit the House of Music museum.

4. Liverpool

The Beatles' home town has The Beatles Story museum, the Cavern Club and a strong live music scene well beyond the Fab Four.

5. Dublin

Traditional music sessions in pubs, big-name concerts and a lively busking scene on Grafton Street make Dublin a joy for music lovers.

6. Lisbon

Hear fado – Portugal's soulful traditional song – in small venues in Alfama and Mouraria, and visit the Fado Museum.

7. Seville

Andalusia's capital is the heartland of flamenco, with shows in small venues and a flamenco dance museum in the old town.

Tips for music travellers

• Check concert calendars before you book your dates.
• Many record shops are closed or open late on Sundays and Mondays – check opening hours.
• Pack records flat in hand luggage or protective mailers to bring them home safely.