October 2025

18 The Nightlife Report Top Live Music Cities to Visit This Year Hey music lovers—if you’re looking to plan your next trip around sound and vibe, we’ve got you. In 2025, some cities are absolutely killing it when it comes to live music: number of shows, venue variety, energy, and culture. These are places where every corner might echo with a gig, every night might open with surprise. Here are a few top cities worth visiting, and what makes them shine. Berlin, Germany If there’s a city that feels like live music incarnate, it’s Berlin. A recent study by Accor named Berlin Europe’s Live Music Capital for 2025, based on metrics like number of scheduled gigs (over 1,160), monthly searches for concerts, and venue ratings averaging above 4.5. From techno temples like Berghain to indie dives, experimental spots, and jazz bars, Berlin offers something for every ear. It’s also home to legendary festivals and hosts massive global tours. For travelers, the variety and authenticity of live music here are unmatched. Photo by | Wendy Wei