So, you’re in Europe and you’re looking for some new gear. Maybe it’s a guitar, maybe it’s a new pedal, or maybe you just want to browse and dream a little.
Whatever the case, finding the right music store can make all the difference. After buying more guitars than I care to admit, I’ve put together a list of my top five favorite music shops in Europe.
These stores have it all: great selection, solid prices, and customer service that doesn’t make you want to pull your hair out. Let’s get into it.
This is a 100% subjective article. However, if you’re running a music store and you want to be included in my directory of shops, hit me up via Contact page.
5 Best Guitar Stores In Europe – My List
1. Thomann (Germany)
First up is Thomann, based in Germany. If you’ve spent any time looking for musical gear online, you’ve probably come across these guys.
Thomann is like the Amazon of the music world—huge selection, great prices, and shipping that’s quick and reliable. Seriously, it’s hard to beat what they offer.
They’ve got everything from guitars and amps to the smallest accessories you didn’t even know you needed. The website’s user-friendly, so you won’t get lost trying to find what you want.
One of the best parts? Their customer service is top-notch. I’ve had to reach out a few times (you know, because I can’t stop buying guitars), and they’ve always been quick to help.
And let’s talk about their return policy—it’s fantastic. If something doesn’t quite hit the mark, they make returns as painless as possible. Plus, the reviews on the site are pretty solid, so you can get an idea of what other musicians think before you click that buy button.
Pro Tip: Sign up for their newsletter. They often have deals and discounts that are totally worth it, especially if you’re a gear junkie like me.
2. Andertons (UK)
Next on the list is Andertons, based in the UK. Andertons has a reputation that precedes it—this place is legendary. It’s one of those shops where you feel like the staff actually know and care about what they’re selling, which is always a plus.
This is basically a go-to place if you live in the UK. I bought a few pedals from them back when I was living in the UK and my experience was always good.
Andertons is great if you’re looking for a more curated selection. They might not have the same gigantic inventory as Thomann, but what they do have is high quality. The store’s especially known for its guitars, amps, and pedals, and they carry some of the coolest brands out there.
One thing I really love about Andertons is their YouTube channel. 920k subs as of today!
They’ve got tons of gear demos, reviews, and comparisons, so if you’re trying to decide between two different models, you can see and hear them in action before you make a decision. It’s like having your own personal gear guru.
I highly recommend checking out their vids. Here’s a sample.
Also, their customer service is fantastic. They’re quick to respond, helpful, and really know their stuff. Shipping is fast, and the gear always arrives well-packaged and ready to rock.
Pro Tip: Check out their “B-Stock” section for some killer deals on slightly used or open-box items. You can score some serious bargains if you keep an eye on it.
3. Gear4music (UK)
Another UK-based gem is Gear4music. These guys are all about variety. Whether you’re a guitarist, drummer, keyboard player, or anything in between, Gear4music probably has what you’re looking for.
They’ve got a huge selection, from beginner-friendly options to high-end, professional-grade gear.
What sets Gear4music apart is their own line of branded products. They offer a range of instruments and accessories under their own name, which are generally pretty affordable and decent quality. It’s a good way to save some cash if you’re on a budget but still want something reliable.
Their website is easy to navigate, and they often have promotions that make it worth checking in regularly. Shipping is fast, and they’ve got warehouses across Europe, so you won’t be waiting forever to get your hands on your new gear.
Customer service? Solid. I’ve had to return a couple of things over the years, and they handled it quickly and without any hassle. Plus, their live chat feature on the website is super convenient if you need answers on the spot.
Pro Tip: Sign up for their loyalty program. You’ll earn points on every purchase that you can use for discounts on future orders. It’s a nice little bonus if you’re a frequent shopper.
4. Bax Music (Netherlands)
Bax Music is another great option, especially if you’re in the Netherlands or nearby. They’ve been around for a while, and they’ve built up a solid reputation for offering a wide range of products at competitive prices.
Whether you’re looking for guitars, DJ equipment, studio gear, or even lighting, Bax has you covered.
One thing I really like about Bax Music is their commitment to keeping things in stock. It’s frustrating when you’re ready to buy, and the gear you want is on backorder, but that’s rarely an issue with Bax.
They’ve got a massive inventory and a really efficient distribution system.
Their website is user-friendly, with tons of filters to help you narrow down your search. And if you’re not sure what you need, their customer service team is always ready to help.
They’re knowledgeable and quick to respond, which is always appreciated when you’re trying to make a decision.
Shipping is fast and reliable, and they offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, which is one of the best in the business. If you’re not happy with your purchase, you’ve got plenty of time to return it, no questions asked.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on their clearance section. They often have some incredible deals on last season’s gear or overstock items. It’s a great way to pick up quality gear at a fraction of the cost.
5. Kytary (Czech Republic & Eastern Europe)
Rounding out our list is Kytary, based in the Czech Republic. Kytary is well-known in Eastern Europe, but they also ship across the continent.
They’ve got a great selection of guitars, amps, keyboards, and more, with prices that are often a bit lower than what you’ll find at some of the bigger stores.
Kytary’s website is easy to navigate, and they provide a lot of information about each product, which is super helpful when you’re trying to make a decision. They also offer free shipping on many items, which is a nice perk.
What I really appreciate about Kytary is their focus on customer satisfaction. They’ve got a solid return policy, and their customer service team is friendly and responsive. I’ve had a few questions over the years, and they’ve always been quick to help me out.
Another cool thing about Kytary is their blog. They post regular updates on new gear, tips for musicians, and other useful content. It’s a nice touch that shows they’re passionate about what they do.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, check out their selection of European-made guitars and gear. You can find some really cool instruments that you might not see at the bigger stores.
What Store Is My Favorite?
Alright, time to pick a favorite. If I had to choose just one store to recommend, it’s got to be Thomann.
I’ve bought dozens of guitars from them over the years, and they’ve never let me down. As you can see below, I still have 27 pieces of gear to review! It was all bought on Thomann.
The selection is massive, the prices are fair, and the customer service is always there when you need it. Plus, they ship fast and package everything securely, so you know your gear is going to arrive in perfect condition.
Thomann’s return policy is also a huge plus. It’s one of the best in the business, so if you ever need to send something back, it’s hassle-free.
And let’s not forget the reviews—other musicians are pretty honest on Thomann’s site, so you can get a good sense of what you’re buying before you commit. For me, Thomann is the ultimate go-to for all things music gear.
FAQ
1. Are these stores good for beginners?
Absolutely. All of these stores offer a wide range of products, from beginner-friendly instruments to professional-grade gear. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, you’ll find what you need.
2. How is the customer service at these stores?
Customer service is solid across the board. Thomann, Andertons, and Gear4music are particularly known for their responsive and helpful customer service teams.
3. Do these stores offer international shipping?
Yes, all of these stores offer international shipping across Europe, and some even ship worldwide. Just be sure to check shipping costs and delivery times when ordering.
4. Can I return products if I’m not satisfied?
Yes, all of these stores have return policies, with Thomann and Bax Music offering some of the best return windows in the industry.
5. Do these stores have physical locations?
Yes, Thomann, Andertons, and Kytary have physical stores you can visit. Gear4music and Bax Music primarily operate online but have warehouses and showrooms in Europe.
6. Do these stores offer financing options?
Many of these stores offer financing options for larger purchases, making it easier to get the gear you want without paying all upfront.
7. Are the prices competitive?
Yes, these stores are known for offering competitive prices, especially Thomann and Bax Music. They often have sales and discounts, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for deals.
8. What if I need help choosing the right gear?
All of these stores have knowledgeable staff who can help you make the right choice. Andertons, in particular, offers a lot of guidance through their YouTube channel and customer service.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to buying music gear in Europe, you really can’t go wrong with any of these stores. Each one has its own strengths, but Thomann stands out as my top pick. IMO it’s one of the best guitar stores in Europe.
Their massive selection, great prices, and excellent customer service make them a no-brainer for musicians of all levels.
Whether you’re buying your first guitar or adding to your collection, these stores will have you covered. Happy shopping!
