For guitarists, music isn’t just a hobby or even just a career—it’s a way of life, an endless journey of discovery and inspiration. Every guitarist knows the thrill of exploring new techniques, instruments, and musical traditions. However, few experiences compare to the joy of traveling the world, visiting iconic venues, legendary guitar shops, and culturally rich destinations where the guitar is deeply revered and celebrated. Whether you seek the magic of a live performance in a vibrant city or the intimate experience of exploring a workshop where instruments are meticulously handcrafted, each country offers something uniquely enriching.
So grab your passport, pack your favorite guitar pick, and prepare to be inspired. Here are nine incredible countries that every guitarist should put on their travel bucket list.
- USA: America is undeniably a cornerstone of guitar culture. Visit Nashville, the heartbeat of country music, home to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, where you’ll discover guitars once played by legends like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams. Guitarists will also appreciate iconic stores such as Norman’s Rare Guitars in Los Angeles, renowned for its extensive vintage collections. And of course, a stop in Cleveland to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is essential to witness instruments from rock legends including Jimi Hendrix and Bruce Springsteen.
- Mexico: Mexico has a vibrant guitar tradition deeply rooted in its culture. In Paracho, Michoacán, renowned worldwide as the “guitar capital,” you’ll find numerous workshops crafting beautifully handcrafted classical and acoustic guitars. Enjoy traditional mariachi performances in Guadalajara or explore Mexico City’s thriving music scene at venues like El Plaza Condesa and Foro Sol, hosting international and local guitar acts alike.
3. Spain: Andalusia, in southern Spain, is the birthplace of flamenco guitar. Cities like Sevilla and Granada pulse with passionate flamenco performances, and guitar enthusiasts can attend workshops hosted by esteemed musicians. Madrid is home to famous guitar-makers like Ramirez, where you can witness traditional guitar-making techniques dating back centuries. Granada’s Albaicín district is famed for intimate live guitar shows that truly captivate the essence of flamenco music.
4. Japan: Tokyo is a treasure trove for guitar collectors and enthusiasts. Ochanomizu district is filled with numerous guitar shops, each boasting extensive inventories of rare, vintage, and modern instruments. Renowned shops like Guitar Planet and Ishibashi Music provide endless browsing possibilities. Beyond shopping, intimate live music venues in neighborhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku host diverse performances ranging from jazz fusion to experimental rock.
5. Brazil: Brazil, particularly Rio de Janeiro, is synonymous with bossa nova, a genre deeply rooted in sophisticated guitar rhythms. Visit clubs like Beco das Garrafas, famous for nurturing bossa nova pioneers like João Gilberto and Antônio Carlos Jobim. São Paulo’s vibrant music scene is equally enticing, boasting countless live venues showcasing gifted guitarists across genres including samba, jazz, and MPB (Brazilian Popular Music).
6. Australia: Known for its vibrant live music culture, Melbourne hosts legendary venues like The Tote and The Espy, featuring indie, rock, and blues guitarists nightly. Sydney’s iconic Opera House and smaller venues like The Basement have hosted celebrated guitarists worldwide. Australia’s own Maton Guitars factory in Melbourne welcomes visitors eager to see where artists like Tommy Emmanuel’s guitars are meticulously crafted.
7. Germany: Frankfurt’s Musikmesse, Europe’s largest musical instrument fair, attracts guitarists keen to discover the latest gear, instruments, and technology innovations. Meanwhile, Berlin and Hamburg offer an exhilarating live music scene at legendary venues like SO36 and Grosse Freiheit 36. Guitarists will appreciate visiting the Hofner guitar and bass workshops in Hagenau, famed for crafting Paul McCartney’s iconic violin bass.
8. Canada: Canada’s guitar culture thrives in cities like Toronto and Montreal. Toronto is home to notable venues like Massey Hall and Lee’s Palace, regularly hosting world-class guitarists. Montreal, famed for its jazz and indie rock scenes, holds the annual Montreal Jazz Festival, attracting international guitar virtuosos. Long & McQuade, Canada’s largest music store chain, provides extensive guitar selections, catering to musicians of all styles.
9. Ireland: With its rich musical heritage, Ireland offers guitarists unforgettable experiences. Dublin’s Temple Bar district pulsates nightly with vibrant live music sessions in historic pubs such as The Quays and The Temple Bar Pub itself. Guitar enthusiasts can explore handcrafted instruments in local workshops and pay homage to Rory Gallagher at exhibitions in Cork. Visiting Belfast also offers insights into Irish guitar heritage with venues and museums celebrating local musical legends.
Exploring the world through the lens of guitar music isn’t merely traveling—it’s a profound journey that enriches your understanding of the instrument you love. Each of these countries promises not just sights and sounds, but the chance to deepen your passion and perhaps even transform the way you play and appreciate music. So whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, let your guitar guide you through these remarkable destinations. Adventure, creativity, and inspiration await! And whatever you do, don’t forget to take some strings with you!
