Are you looking for the very best music stores to visit around the world? Perhaps you’re a digital nomad musician or an avid music lover. If so, you may be inspired to make special trips to check out these locations. When you do, you’ll be rewarded with the joys of walking into a world where music is appreciated, cherished, and shared.

Connecting With Music Lovers

When you’re traveling, visiting a music store is a great way to connect with music lovers, local musicians, and make friends. Music is a bridge into different cultures and a sure way to feel at home, anywhere in the world. Let’s explore some of the best music stores on the planet.

Ishibashi Music, Tokyo, Japan

Are you looking for a place that epitomizes beauty, sound, and artistry? Ishibashi sells acoustic and classic guitars, electric guitars, drums, and wind instruments. Look for acoustic guitar stands and just about every other musical accessory imaginable.

They also feature a wide variety of synthesizers and amps from famous brands such as Fender, Gibson, Yamaha, and more. You may not want to leave this idyllic setting in Tokyo, but more adventures are calling.

Rikhi Ram Musical Co., Lahore, India

Join the legendary stars who shop here. George Harrison bought a sitar here in 1966. Ravi Shankar is said to have shopped here. The stunningly crafted instruments will keep you browsing and dreaming for hours.

Mars Music, Cape Town, SA

Welcome to South Africa’s home to musical equipment. You’ll find an incredible array of musical instruments from basses, brass and woodwinds, and drums. Expect to be tempted by the many deals of the week that include jaw-dropping discounts, competitions, musical events, and tutorials.

You can also explore their different locations. Check out their original store in Cape Town. Feel free to check out the additional locations in places such as Pretoria, Boksburg, and Constantiaberg.

Keymusic, Amsterdam

Keymusic is a small shop that will keep you busy for hours. Browse the store and talk to knowledgeable advisors. Find out why this is the key store favored by musicians, producers, and music lovers in Amsterdam.

As you walk the beautiful streets and stroll along Amsterdam’s famous canals, make sure that you pop into one of the many coffee shops for a boost to your day. Then, pop back around to Keymusic for more shopping and browsing.

Drum Connection, Arlington, USA

Are you a drum or percussion lover? You’ll flip over the amazing selection of drums and classes offered here. Expect to find drum lessons and drum circles featuring drums from around the globe.

Conga, Doumbek, Dunun, djembe, and more are among the popular genres offered in this shop. Opened in the 1990s, you’ll also appreciate their repair services and friendly staff. Get ready to start drumming.

Buffalo Brothers, Carlsbad, CA

Check out the collection of high-end acoustic guitars. REcently the inventory may have been reduced due to economic hard times. Even so, this great shop may quickly make it on the list of your favorite music shops.

McCabe’s Guitar Shop, Santa Monica, CA

Looking for a guitar Mecca? This is it. You’ll find all kinds of acoustic guitars, as well as basses and electric guitars. Check out the back room, filled with acoustic wonders, and take in one of their weekend concerts. This is a friendly place and welcoming spot.

Gruhn Guitars, Nashville, TN

Here in the land of guitars, Gruhn may just take the cake for having an awesome collection. Be sure to check it out as you make your Nashville tour.

Dave’s Guitar Shop, LaCross, WI

Are you a guitar lover? Welcome to heaven. This is one of the largest dealers of Feder, Martin, and Gibson. In addition to newer models, 600 vintage drool-worthy guitars may catch your eye. Be nice and you may be able to strum a few tunes.

Vintage & Rare Guitars, London & Bath, UK

Check out these stores in both London and Bath, boasting a friendly staff and awesome collection. You may not want to leave, so plan on spending a good part of your day here.

Music Energizes, Inspires, and Soothes

Whether you’re a digital nomad musician or just love shopping for music and musical instruments, it’s good to remember that music is good for the brain as well as the spirit. Neurologists say music strengthens the brain and may be helpful to solve degeneration problems like dementia.

In addition to helping your brain, though, music is also a smart way to meet like-minded music lovers while you travel. Keep playing, listening, and exploring to keep your spirit happy and your brain healthy.