Cheap Tickets to Nashville

With its prime position on the Cumberland River, Nashville grew rapidly after its foundation back in 1779 and later became widely hailed as the "Country Music Capital of the World". It has long attracted lovers of country sounds to its Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, but today this state capital of Tennessee is widening its appeal. It's a city with distinct neighbourhoods full of quirky shops, indie-style coffee houses and craft breweries as well as a destination with a host of historic attractions, and wherever you go or whatever you do, you'll be welcomed with traditional Southern hospitality.

Things to do

With distinct neighbourhoods each with a village feel, planning your time in Nashville is easy. The East side is where you'll find a craft and artisan scene with a slightly bohemian feel whereas 12th Avenue South delivers upmarket shopping and antique stores. For evening dining, head to the Gulch, while Hillsboro Village is perfect for a leisurely coffee while you watch the world go by.

• A country hall of fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum tells the story of country music in America as well as preserving and interpreting American vernacular music. It holds extensive collections of recorded sounds as well as films, instruments and the stage costumes of famous country stars.

• Over 200 years of Tennessee history

The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in the city centre was created in 1996 to mark Tennessee's 200th birthday. It features an amphitheatre and tells the state's history through tours, water fountains, statues and plaques.

• A flavour of Greece in Tennessee

The Centennial Art Centre is housed in the huge urban Centennial Park. Here outdoor activities are brought together with the city's history and art collections. It's also a popular spot for annual festivals and is even home to a full-size replica of Greece's Parthenon Temple.

Calendar of Events

Nashville has always been a happening city, whether it's putting on country music fests or colourful street fairs. In fact, there isn't a month of the year when something isn't going on. Food fairs, theatre seasons, trade shows, Christmas wonderlands and, of course, celebrations of country music all fill the calendar.

• Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. This event has taken place in June since 2002 and brings together some of the world's best pop, hip-hop, rock and country musicians and singers such as Billy Joel and Kendrick Lamar.

• Music City Hot Chicken Festival. July adds some spice to the music scene with this Hot Chicken Festival. The city's speciality of fiery pepper-soaked chicken is enjoyed along with parades, beer gardens, cooking contests and free live concerts of country music.

• A Country Christmas. November sees the start of Opryland, where the large indoor gardens of the Grand Ole Opry are transformed into a winter wonderland with spectacular lights, dozens of decorated Christmas trees and horse-drawn carriage rides.