Nashville holidays

How to reach Nashville

• Flight time: Direct flights to Nashville from London take approximately 10 hours. You can also find one-stop flights with layovers in major US cities like New York or Atlanta, which take around 13 to 16 hours.

• Transfer time: From Nashville International Airport, the journey to the city centre takes about 15 minutes by car. The best public transport option is route 18 of the WeGo Public Transit bus, which connects the airport to downtown Nashville in 30 minutes.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to downtown will set you back around $40–$45. The WeGo bus is a more economical option, at just $2.

Best time to visit Nashville

Holidays to Nashville are enjoyable year-round, but it pays to match the season to what you most want to see and do.

• March to May: Spring is an ideal time for Nashville holidays, with average temperatures between 15 and 25°C. The city is in full bloom, rainfall is moderate (70–110mm) and there are 8–10 hours of sunshine daily.

• June to August: Summer in Nashville is hot and humid, with average temperatures between 25 and 35°C. This is also open-air music season, with primetime events like the CMA Music Festival, usually held in June. The average rainfall is typically 80–120mm, with 10–11 hours of sunshine daily.

• September to November: Autumn is a pleasant time to visit, with cooler temperatures between 15 and 25°C. The fall foliage in and around Nashville is a big plus for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Rainfall is about 60–100mm, with 7–9 hours of sunshine daily.

• December to February: Winters are mild but can be chilly, with temperatures averaging 0 to 10°C. There’s occasional snowfall, but it’s generally light, with rainfall between 80 and 100mm. Expect around 5–7 hours of sunshine daily.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken in Nashville.

• Local habits and customs: Nashville is famous worldwide for its Southern hospitality. It’s common to greet strangers with a smile, and most city residents are super helpful. Tipping is customary (remember, health insurance isn’t a given for servers), and 15–20 percent is recommended in restaurants.

• Health and safety: Nashville is generally safe, but as with any city, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings. Call 911 for emergencies, and take out travel insurance before your trip to cover any unexpected medical costs.

• Currency: The currency used in Nashville is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available, and most establishments accept credit cards.

• Getting around: Nashville has a good public transport system. The WeGo Public Transit buses are affordable, with 2-hour unlimited passes costing $2. You can also buy day passes for $4. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular, and there are plenty of taxis. For those who enjoy cycling, Nashville has a bike-sharing program called B-Cycle.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V, with type A and B plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Nashville operates on Central Standard Time (CST), 6 hours behind GMT. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Central Daylight Time (CDT), 5 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a valid passport and an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter the US. Apply for the ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight.

Best things to do in Nashville

Nashville, the heart of Tennessee, is famous for its vibrant music scene, rich history and Southern hospitality.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge: Offers stunning views of the Nashville skyline, especially at sunset.

• Love Circle: A lesser-known spot but a favourite among locals, Love Circle provides panoramic city views and is great for a picnic.

The best districts

• Downtown Nashville: The heart of the city's music scene, Downtown Nashville is where you'll find the legendary Honky Tonk Highway, with its vibrant bars and live music venues. It's a bustling area full of history, from the Ryman Auditorium to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

• The Gulch: A trendy district known for its chic boutiques, upscale restaurants and vibrant nightlife. It's also home to the famous "What Lifts You" wings mural by Kelsey Montague.

• East Nashville: Known for its bohemian vibe, East Nashville is home to quirky shops, indie music venues and some of the city’s best eateries.

• 12 South: This walkable neighbourhood is popular for its shops, cafés and the iconic "I Believe in Nashville" mural.

Historic monuments

• Ryman Auditorium: Often referred to as the "Mother Church of Country Music," this historic venue has hosted countless legendary performances. Tours are a must for music lovers.

• The Parthenon: This is a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Greece, located in Centennial Park. It houses an impressive art museum and a statue of Athena.

• Andrew Jackson's Hermitage: The former home of the seventh President of the United States provides a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century Southern life.

Parks and gardens

• Centennial Park: This 53-hectare park is home to the Parthenon replica and features walking trails, a beautiful lake and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation.

• Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park: A picturesque park that celebrates Tennessee’s history and culture, complete with a granite map of the state, fountains and a stunning view of the Tennessee State Capitol.

Day trips in the area

• Mammoth Cave National Park: Located about 1.5 hours from Nashville, this park features the world's longest-known cave system, with guided tours, hiking and kayaking.

• Lynchburg: Visit the Jack Daniel’s Distillery for a guided tour and tasting. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville.

• Franklin: Just a 30-minute drive away, Franklin is known for its charming Main Street, Civil War history and the picturesque Leiper’s Fork village.

Activities for families in Nashville

Nashville offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages.

• Parks and playgrounds: Families will enjoy Centennial Park's vast green spaces, playground and duck pond. Shelby Park is another option for an active day out, with trails, sports fields and a large playground area.

• Interactive museums: The Adventure Science Center is a hit with kids, offering hands-on exhibits that explore science and technology. The Country Music Hall of Fame also has interactive displays and workshops for children to learn about music.

• Zoos and aquariums: The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is home to a wide variety of animals, a carousel, playgrounds and the popular Jungle Gym.

• Music and performance venues: Experience a family-friendly show at the Grand Ole Opry or a performance at the Nashville Children's Theatre.

Free things to do in Nashville

Nashville has plenty of free activities to entertain visitors on a travel budget.

• Free events: Nashville hosts a variety of free cultural events and concerts throughout the year. Enjoy live music at Centennial Park during Musicians Corner, a seasonal event from May to June featuring local artists.

• Free museums: Many museums offer free admission on specific days. The Tennessee State Museum is free daily and provides insights into the state's history and culture. The Parthenon also offers free admission on certain days each month.

• Explore by public transport: Nashville’s WeGo Public Transit system makes it easy to explore the city. The Music City Circuit offers free bus routes through downtown, connecting major attractions such as the Bicentennial Mall, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Farmer’s Market.

• Free guided tours: Several organisations offer complimentary guided walking tours on a tips-only basis. Walking tours of downtown and the historic district are especially worthwhile.

Wellness in Nashville

Nashville might be known for its vibrant music scene, but it also offers a variety of wellness options to help rejuvenate your body and mind.

• Spas and thermal baths: Indulge in luxury at the Woodhouse Day Spa, where you can enjoy a range of treatments from therapeutic massages to invigorating body scrubs. For a unique experience, visit Pure Sweat + Float Studio, offering infrared sauna and float therapy sessions to help you detox and relax.

• Traditional body care: The Lotus Room offers holistic treatments, including traditional Thai massages and aromatherapy.

Local dishes in Nashville

Nashville holidays offer a rich and diverse culinary scene, reflecting the city's Southern roots and innovative spirit.

Some typical dishes

• Hot Chicken: Nashville's signature dish is spicy fried chicken, typically served with pickles and white bread. The heat ranges from mild to incredibly hot, so be sure to state your preference when ordering.

• Nashville BBQ: Known for its slow-cooked meats and rich, smoky flavours, Nashville BBQ often features pulled pork, ribs and brisket, served with classic sides like coleslaw and (American-style) baked beans.

• Biscuits and Gravy: A Southern breakfast staple, this dish includes fluffy biscuits smothered in a creamy sausage gravy.

Street food

• Nashville Hot Fish: Similar to hot chicken but with fried fish, this street food favourite is a spicy and crispy treat.

Sweets and desserts

• Banana Pudding: This classic Southern dessert features layers of vanilla wafers, banana slices and creamy vanilla pudding, topped with meringue or whipped cream.

• Chess Pie: A rich and sweet pie with a buttery filling made from simple ingredients. Popular varieties include lemon and chocolate chess pie.

• Goo Goo Clusters: Invented in Nashville in 1912, these famed chocolate confections are filled with caramel, marshmallow, nougat and roasted peanuts.

Local drinks

• Tennessee whiskey: No visit to Nashville is complete without sampling Tennessee whiskey. Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel are known for their smooth, robust flavours.

• Craft beer: Nashville’s craft beer scene is thriving, with local breweries like Yazoo Brewing Company and Jackalope Brewing Company offering unique and flavourful brews.

• Sweet tea: A Southern staple, sweet tea is a refreshing, sugary iced tea, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.