For the love of music: the best holiday destinations for music lovers

The lyrics from Stevie Wonder’s classic track Sir Duke perfectly capture the power music has to reach us in some way. Even if you’re not a musician, there is a joy to be found in a musical experience – whether in solitude or shared with others – that many would argue is incomparable. Increasingly we are being reminded of the transformational power of music to improve our mental health and wellbeing; studies suggest that listening to music can lower stress hormones as well as blood pressure and heart rate, whilst music therapy has shown promise in healing trauma and building resilience. All good reasons to make time for a little music in our lives.

When you travel the world, discovering diverse music cultures is a journey that transcends borders and languages, and offers a unique connection to the very soul of each destination. As you explore new landscapes, the universal language of music becomes a bridge to better understanding and experiencing the very heart of different cultures; every region has its distinctive sound, each note and rhythm telling its own fascinating story of heritage, tradition, and passion.

Imagine wandering through the vibrant streets of New Orleans, where the lively tunes of jazz fill the air, or finding yourself in a bustling market in Marrakesh, accompanied by the hypnotic beats of traditional Moroccan drums. In Hungary, the melodies of traditional folk music provide a haunting backdrop to the remote stillness of its vast Great Plain, while you’ll get an authentic sense of Spanish drama and romance from the flamenco guitar’s fiery chords.
 

Porto, Portugal

One of Europe’s most evocative musical experiences can be found in Porto, where the haunting strains of Portuguese Fado music echo through its narrow, cobbled streets. Fado, often performed in intimate settings – tucked away little cafes or historic taverns, is characterised by its soulful and melancholic melodies, typically accompanied by the Portuguese guitar. The songs, an audible reflection of the deep emotional landscape of the Portuguese people, tell tales of longing, loss, and the sea. Listening to Fado in Porto is not just about the music; it’s about feeling the pulse of the city and the hearts of its inhabitants.
 

Deep South USA – New Orleans, Memphis and Nashville

Crossing the Atlantic, the Deep South of the United States offers a rich tapestry of musical genres that have influenced music worldwide. From the blues of Mississippi to the jazz of New Orleans, the gospel of the Southern churches to the country music of Nashville, the South’s music is steeped in history and emotion. Visiting cities like Memphis, where Beale Street buzzes with blues clubs, or New Orleans, with its jazz heritage, immerses you in the soulful sounds that have shaped American music. The music of the Deep South tells stories of struggle, resilience, and celebration, capturing the essence of this corner of America.
 

Seville, Spain

In Seville, the passionate and vibrant art of Spanish flamenco takes centre stage. Flamenco is more than just music; it is an expressive dance form accompanied by cante y toque – singing and guitar playing. The rhythms are complex and the performances are deeply emotional, often narrating themes of love, sorrow, and joy. Experiencing flamenco in Seville, where it originated, is a must. The city’s flamenco shows, whether in a grand theatre or a small, authentic tablao, will immerse you into the fervent spirit of Andalusian culture.
 

Vienna, Austria

There are few cities in the world where the elegance and grandeur of classical music are more evident than in Vienna. The Austrian capital is synonymous with the works of Johann Strauss, whose waltzes are emblematic of Vienna’s musical heritage. Attending a concert in one of the city’s historic concert halls, such as the Kursalon, allows you to experience the timeless beauty of Strauss’s compositions in the city where they were first performed, and you’ll find Vienna’s musical scene is not just a nod to history but very much a living tradition, with performances that still draw and captivate audiences from around the world.

Similarly, the legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is celebrated in Vienna and his birthplace, Salzburg. Mozart’s compositions, known for their complexity and beauty, are performed regularly in both cities, offering visitors a chance to hear his music in the very places that inspired him. Walking through the streets of these spectacular cities, taking in the imperial architecture and the refined café culture, you can almost hear the echoes of Mozart’s genius all around – you won’t fail to be moved.
 

Helsinki, Finland

Mozart’s influence extends beyond Austria, reaching into the heart of Finland, where his works are celebrated alongside those of Sibelius. Finland, though perhaps less renowned for its musical heritage than some other European countries, boasts its own rich traditions. The music of Jean Sibelius, the nation’s most famous composer, is a celebration of the country’s natural beauty and strong nationalist spirit, and compositions, such as Finlandia and the Karelia Suite, are imbued with a deep sense of place and identity. In Helsinki, the Sibelius Monument and the many concerts dedicated to his work pay homage to his enduring influence. Finnish music is also deeply connected to its folklore, with traditional instruments like the kantele (a plucked string instrument) playing a significant role in the country’s musical landscape. Concerts often feature a blend of Mozart’s classical elegance and Sibelius’s evocative compositions, creating a unique fusion that highlights the universal appeal of classical music.

New Zealand

Taonga Puoro are the musical instruments of the Māori people of Aotearoa, and their name ‘singing treasures’ shows just how much they are cherished – not only for their beautiful sounds but also for the stories and artistry behind each instrument. There are many kinds of taonga puoro: shell  trumpets, unique flutes, spun instruments, and bird callers. Each one is considered unique, with its own voice and intricate decorations, grouped into families according to their heritage, sound and carvings. Whether played for entertainment or sacred rituals, there will always be a deep appreciation for their spiritual origins.
 

In every corner of the globe, music serves as a universal language that speaks to the heart and soul. It bridges cultural gaps, creating shared moments of joy, reflection, and connection. As you travel and explore the world’s musical landscapes, you discover not just new sounds, but also the rich, vibrant tapestries of the cultures from which they emerge. Whether you’re being transported back in time to the days of the Sultans with traditional Turkish rhythms, dancing to Croatian tamburica or meditating to the serene sounds of a Japanese koto, music enriches your journey resonating long after the final note has faded.