Which cities have the best live entertainment?

Are you seeking a thrilling break from the drudge of daily life on your next vacation? Nature and beaches are all well and good, but if you’re the sort of cosmopolitan traveler who thrives on extravagance and a spectacular live show, a week of monotony simply won’t cut it.

Destinations such as New York City and Las Vegas are thriving entertainment hubs packed with exhilarating experiences and unforgettable nights.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best destinations in the world if you want to be stunned by the heights of excitement that can be crafted on the biggest stages.

London

Theatre is one of the oldest forms of live entertainment, and on London’s West End, there’s no shortage of world-class productions. With some of the finest venues in the world, such as the Royal Opera House and the National Theatre, there’s a great variety of live entertainment in London.

But if theatre’s not your thing, the well of excitement in London is very deep – from comedy clubs to burlesques and a vast array of live music at the famous O2 arena and at dozens of trendy and underground venues with up-and-coming musicians.

Las Vegas

Sin City is the first name in anyone’s head when it comes to live entertainment. Renowned for its extravagant shows and luxurious casinos, Las Vegas is the entertainment and gambling capital of the USA – if not the world. The glistening strips and glamorous nightlife ensure no city will ever be a match for the sheer thrill of stepping out on the streets of Las Vegas.

Las Vegas can offer visitors everything from show girls or a shotgun wedding to action-packed fight rings and soaring rollercoasters. Many famous musicians – icons such as Elton John, Britney Spears and Celine Dion – have a residency in the city’s best music venues. If you want the true Sin City experience, make sure you try out a vibrant live casino where the glitzy interiors and high-stakes rewards will make you feel like you’re in a Hollywood movie.

Orlando

Orlando is known as the land of amusement parks and is a prime destination for families looking to experience the finest theme parks in the world. The city is home to the famous Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and hundreds of others – there’ll never be a shortage of shows or adventures.

The entertainment in Orlando doesn’t stop there, either. Orlando hosts fantastic live shows like WWE tournaments and big-name concerts, as well as something that people don’t normally associate with Orlando – numerous first-class museums for when you need a break from all the thrills.

Sydney

If you’re looking to take yourself somewhere with sublime weather year-round, Sydney is a delightful juxtaposition of world-class entertainment and the laid-back atmosphere Australians are known for. Scrolling beaches line the city’s waterfront and bustling nightclubs operate along the beach walks. Not to mention the iconic Sydney Opera House, which hosts ballet, opera, theatre and orchestral performances. Thanks to the fantastic weather, the city also puts on a number of festivals all year round.

Dubai

Dubai is a staggering achievement of human planning – a gem of soaring towers and extravagance set against the blistering heat of the desert. Not a cent has been spared to make Dubai one of the most exciting locations in the world for live entertainment, with tourist locations such as conservation reserves and waterparks as well as numerous modern nightlife events – despite the conservative culture.

Paris

Paris is a city overflowing with culture and has a huge number of entertainment offerings to boot. The city is famed for its cabaret shows, such as the iconic Moulin Rouge. Paris is also home to classy jazz clubs and numerous theatres that put on everything from classical plays to some experimental theatre. There’s truly no better backdrop to enjoy all this entertainment than the beauty of Paris at night.

Berlin

The home of cutting-edge creative work and vibrant nightlife, Berlin has staked its place as one of the trendiest cities in the world. The fast-paced youth culture has brought an endless avalanche of film, fashion, music and visual arts, all of which are reflected in the live entertainment in the city’s booming nightlife. Concerts, international film events and balls – you’ll find it all in Berlin. The city also sports vivid parades such as the Carnival of Cultures and Christopher Street Day.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a delightful blend of romantic culture and bustling nightlife, where quaint Dutch canal streets come alive at night with a never-ending cascade of pubs, dance clubs and festivals running through until dawn. The Amsterdam Dance Event draws hundreds of famous artists every year. The city’s famous Red Light District is a maze of canals and alleys, perfect for stag parties.