Live music has always been about more than just the songs. It is about moments that define generations, spectacles that push creative boundaries, and the shared energy between artists and their fans.
From legendary rock marathons to dazzling pop productions and history-making K-pop stadium shows, tours have shaped the way we experience music on a global scale. These performances do not just entertain; they create cultural touchstones that live on long after the final encore.
In this ranking of the 100 best tours of all time, we celebrate the artists who have transformed stages into worlds of their own. At the very top sits Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, a career-defining phenomenon that set new standards for storytelling and fan connection.
The 100 best tours ever
Alongside her are icons like Beyoncé, Prince, BTS, and U2, as well as modern superstars and K-pop trailblazers who are proving that the future of live music is as exciting as its past.
1. Taylor Swift — The Eras Tour (2023-2024)
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour redefined what it means to mount a global pop phenomenon. Celebrating nearly two decades of music, Swift built a three-and-a-half-hour show that moved seamlessly through 10 distinct eras, each with its own staging, costuming, and emotional resonance.
Fans turned concerts into cultural pilgrimages, trading friendship bracelets, designing themed outfits, and flooding social media with their experiences. Beyond the nostalgia, it broke records at every turn: the highest-grossing tour of all time, an acclaimed concert film, and an economic ripple effect in every city it touched. This wasn’t just a tour — it was a cultural reset.
2. Beyoncé — Formation World Tour (2016)
Following the release of Lemonade, Beyoncé unleashed a tour that was part protest, part spectacle, and entirely unforgettable. With a towering monolith screen, flawless choreography, and politically charged visuals, the Formation World Tour showcased her command as both performer and storyteller. She brought athleticism, raw emotion, and empowerment to every stadium, making it one of the most important tours of the decade.
3. The Beatles — 1964 North American Tour
When Beatlemania hit, the world tilted on its axis. The Beatles’ 1964 tour across the United States was the template for modern rock and pop tours: screaming fans, chaotic travel schedules, and venues straining to handle the unprecedented demand. Though production was minimal compared to later spectacles, the cultural shockwave was seismic, turning a band into a global movement.
4. BTS — Love Yourself World Tour (2018-2019)
The Love Yourself World Tour wasn’t just a K-pop event — it was a historic shift in pop culture. BTS filled stadiums across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, breaking barriers for Korean artists and uniting ARMY across continents. With emotionally charged performances, cinematic stage design, and a message of self-acceptance, the tour solidified BTS as one of the most influential global acts of the 21st century.
5. Madonna — Blond Ambition Tour (1990)
Provocative, theatrical, and unapologetically bold, Madonna’s Blond Ambition Tour rewrote the rules of what a pop concert could be. With Jean Paul Gaultier’s cone bras, Catholic imagery, and Broadway-style staging, it blurred the line between concert and performance art. Though controversial at the time, its cultural impact is undeniable: it set the stage for the pop extravaganzas that followed.
6. Bad Bunny — World’s Hottest Tour (2022)
Bad Bunny’s rise to superstardom crystallized in this stadium-filling spectacle, which celebrated reggaeton, Latin trap, and Puerto Rican pride. Mixing massive beach-party vibes with top-tier production and guest stars, the World’s Hottest Tour was both deeply personal and universally magnetic. It made history as the highest-grossing Latin tour ever, solidifying Bad Bunny as a once-in-a-generation performer.
7. Michael Jackson — Dangerous World Tour (1992-1993)
Michael Jackson’s live performances were unmatched in spectacle and innovation, and the Dangerous World Tour exemplified his prime. Combining iconic choreography, groundbreaking stage illusions, and relentless energy, Jackson elevated pop concerts into true theatrical events. His precision and charisma cemented him as the “King of Pop” with this defining global showcase.
8. BLACKPINK — Born Pink World Tour (2022-2023)
BLACKPINK became the first K-pop girl group to headline stadiums worldwide with the Born Pink Tour. The shows blended hard-hitting choreography, fashion-forward aesthetics, and EDM-pop bangers into an unforgettable experience. With stops across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the tour underscored the group’s dominance in both music and cultural influence.
9. Lady Gaga — The Monster Ball Tour (2009-2011)
Dubbed “the first-ever pop-electro opera,” Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball Tour was as innovative as it was theatrical. Transforming arenas into surreal dreamscapes, Gaga built a narrative around fame, monsters, and resilience, with visuals that felt more like avant-garde theater than pop spectacle. It catapulted her from breakout star to pop icon and remains one of the most inventive tours of its era.
10. U2 — The Joshua Tree Tour (1987, revived 2017)
U2 has delivered many landmark tours, but The Joshua Tree stands as a pinnacle. Originally launched in 1987, it combined their most beloved record with anthemic performances that filled stadiums with unity and energy. The 2017 revival doubled down with modern production, giant screens projecting desert landscapes, and the timeless power of songs like “Where the Streets Have No Name.” It’s proof that some tours age into legends.
11. Beyoncé — Renaissance World Tour (2023)
Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour was a dazzling celebration of house, disco, and ballroom culture, infused with futurism. The chrome horse, the metallic stage design, and the community-driven energy made each show feel like a glamorous, larger-than-life nightclub. More than a concert, it was a cultural homage to Black queer artistry and dance history, solidifying Beyoncé’s place as one of the greatest live performers of all time.
12. Prince — Purple Rain Tour (1984-1985)
Prince’s Purple Rain Tour was a revelation in both music and performance. Combining rock, funk, and soul with his signature androgynous style, he created a stage experience that was electrifying and unpredictable. Backed by The Revolution, Prince blurred genre boundaries and cemented himself as a fearless innovator in live music.
13. The Rolling Stones — A Bigger Bang Tour (2005-2007)
At an age when most bands were slowing down, The Rolling Stones mounted one of the highest-grossing tours in history. The A Bigger Bang Tour featured colossal stage structures, firework-laden finales, and the timeless charisma of Mick Jagger. It proved that rock and roll never really grows old — it just gets louder.
14. Coldplay — Viva la Vida Tour (2008-2010)
Coldplay reinvented their live shows with the Viva la Vida Tour, introducing glowing wristbands, immersive visuals, and confetti showers that turned stadiums into dreamlike celebrations. The combination of intimacy and grandeur redefined Coldplay’s reputation, transforming them into one of the most beloved live bands of their generation.
15. TWICE — Ready to Be World Tour (2023)
TWICE brought warmth, joy, and precision to their Ready to Be World Tour, cementing themselves as one of K-pop’s brightest live acts. Their perfectly synchronized performances blended with fan interactions to create a unique intimacy, even in giant stadiums. The tour was a major milestone, underscoring the group’s growing dominance in Western markets.
16. Bruce Springsteen — Born in the U.S.A. Tour (1984-1985)
Few artists can sustain the raw energy that Bruce Springsteen delivered night after night on the Born in the U.S.A. Tour. With marathon-length concerts full of heartland rock anthems, Springsteen and the E Street Band gave fans catharsis and joy in equal measure. It was working-class grit transformed into communal celebration.
17. Madonna — Confessions Tour (2006)
Madonna’s Confessions Tour was pure spectacle — part disco fever dream, part religious provocation. Opening with the queen of pop descending from a mirrored ball, the show combined dazzling choreography, innovative remixes, and controversial imagery. It reminded the world why Madonna has always been the master of reinvention.
18. Stray Kids — Maniac World Tour (2022-2023)
Stray Kids brought raw intensity to their Maniac Tour, fusing powerful rap verses, experimental production, and cutting-edge stage visuals. The group’s synergy and stamina made each show feel like a controlled explosion, thrilling fans across continents. It was a pivotal moment that established them as K-pop’s rising powerhouse.
19. Pink Floyd — The Wall Tour (1980-1981)
The Wall Tour wasn’t just a concert — it was immersive theater. Pink Floyd built a literal wall between themselves and the audience, only to tear it down in the show’s climax. The fusion of concept album and stagecraft created one of the most iconic and ambitious tours in rock history.
20. Harry Styles — Love on Tour (2021-2023)
Harry Styles created a touring experience defined by joy, inclusivity, and celebration. Fans in feather boas and heart-shaped glasses turned each Love on Tour stop into a community event. With colorful staging, heartfelt speeches, and Harry’s undeniable charisma, it became one of the most joyful pop tours of recent memory.
21. Elton John — Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour (2018-2023)
After decades of performing, Elton John’s farewell tour was both sentimental and spectacular. Lavish visuals and heartfelt storytelling framed his greatest hits as he bid farewell to fans worldwide. It became one of the most successful goodbye tours ever, closing an extraordinary chapter in music history.
22. Britney Spears — Dream Within a Dream Tour (2001-2002)
Pop perfection met cutting-edge technology in Britney’s Dream Within a Dream Tour. With rain machines, elaborate sets, and dazzling choreography, Spears proved she was more than a teen pop idol — she was a showwoman capable of commanding arenas with flair.
23. Michael Jackson — HIStory World Tour (1996-1997)
Michael Jackson brought blockbuster energy to the HIStory Tour. With massive pyrotechnics, military-inspired staging, and anthems spanning his career, he staged a spectacle on a scale few could rival. Every night was a reminder of his status as a global pop icon.
24. SEVENTEEN — Be the Sun Tour (2022-2023)
Known for razor-sharp choreography and diverse musical styles, SEVENTEEN’s Be the Sun Tour proved why they’re called “Performance Kings.” With 13 members each bringing charisma and talent, their synergy onstage was magnetic, making this tour a definitive step in their global rise.
25. Fleetwood Mac — Rumours Tour (1977-1978)
Tension behind the scenes only fueled the magic onstage. Touring their masterpiece Rumours, Fleetwood Mac delivered cathartic performances that became a touchstone of rock history. The drama was palpable, but the music was transcendent.
26. Rihanna — Diamonds World Tour (2013)
Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour showcased her at the peak of her powers, blending Caribbean rhythms with pop, EDM, and R&B in a high-fashion spectacle. She delivered confident, commanding performances that elevated her status as one of pop’s most versatile entertainers. Rihanna, if you're reading this, please release new music. The fans are begging at this point!!
27. David Bowie — Glass Spider Tour (1987)
Known for his constant reinvention, Bowie pushed boundaries again with the Glass Spider Tour. Featuring elaborate theatrical staging, avant-garde visuals, and bold artistic choices, it was polarizing at the time but has since been hailed as an ambitious testament to Bowie’s fearless creativity.
28. Ariana Grande — Sweetener World Tour (2019)
Ariana Grande’s Sweetener World Tour was a triumph of resilience and artistry. Following personal tragedy, Grande transformed her pain into catharsis onstage, delivering breathtaking vocals and sleek production. The tour was both intimate and spectacular, cementing her as one of the defining pop voices of her generation.
29. Queen — The Game Tour (1980-1981)
With Freddie Mercury at his flamboyant, commanding best, Queen’s The Game Tour was a masterclass in rock showmanship. From operatic highs to hard rock riffs, the band blended genres with theatrical bravado, leaving audiences awestruck.
30. Shakira — El Dorado World Tour (2018)
Shakira brought her signature fusion of Latin, pop, and rock to life with the El Dorado Tour. Her unmatched stamina, belly-dancing precision, and multilingual setlists made each concert feel both global and intimate. It celebrated her as one of the most influential international performers.
31. Janet Jackson — Rhythm Nation Tour (1990)
Janet’s first world tour was groundbreaking, combining militaristic choreography, socially conscious themes, and genre-blending hits. It redefined what a female pop spectacle could look like.
32. Drake — Aubrey & The Three Migos Tour (2018)
Drake’s arena-dominating charisma and Migos’ high-energy performances created one of hip-hop’s biggest tours. The 3D visuals and massive set pieces elevated it to blockbuster status.
33. Adele — 25 Tour (2016-2017)
Adele kept it simple: powerhouse vocals, heartfelt stories, and stunning intimacy even in stadiums. The 25 Tour became one of the most successful solo artist tours ever. It's no wonder she landed herself a Vegas residency just a few short years later.
34. The Who — Quadrophenia Tour (1973-1974)
A loud, chaotic rock odyssey, this tour brought The Who’s ambitious rock opera Quadrophenia to life, with Keith Moon’s wild drumming at its center.
35. Taylor Swift — 1989 World Tour (2015)
Before Eras, Taylor transformed herself into a full-scale pop superstar with the 1989 Tour. Guest appearances, neon visuals, and sleek production made it an instant classic.
36. Eminem & Rihanna — The Monster Tour (2014)
Uniting two superstars, this short but powerful stadium run delivered ferocious rap anthems and soaring pop choruses, with chemistry that thrilled fans.
37. Paul McCartney — Out There Tour (2013-2015)
McCartney’s legendary catalog came alive across continents, blending Beatles classics with solo gems in marathon sets that proved his timeless appeal.
38. Doja Cat — Scarlet Tour (2023-2024)
Doja Cat’s first major headlining run was a theatrical, spooky-glam vision full of daring visuals and commanding performances. It announced her as a pop force to be reckoned with.
39. The Police — Synchronicity Tour (1983-1984)
The trio’s biggest world tour also became their last, but it was a dazzling farewell — reggae-rock anthems filling stadiums at their commercial peak.
40. Billie Eilish — Happier Than Ever Tour (2022)
Billie’s whispered vocals turned into stadium-sized sing-alongs on this intimate yet grand tour. Stripped-back visuals and her sibling-producer Finneas kept the focus on artistry.
41. Guns N’ Roses — Not in This Lifetime Tour (2016-2019)
A long-awaited reunion, this tour brought back Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan together. Fans packed arenas worldwide, proving the appetite for classic rock was alive and loud.
42. Kendrick Lamar — The Big Steppers Tour (2022-2023)
Minimalist staging met maximalist artistry. Kendrick used performance art, narration, and striking visuals to turn his Pulitzer-level lyricism into a moving theatrical experience.
43. Cher — Believe Tour (1999-2000)
Drenched in sequins and camp glamour, Cher’s Believe Tour mixed humor, spectacle, and reinvention, showing why she’s one of pop’s longest-lasting icons.
44. Muse — Simulation Theory Tour (2019)
Muse leaned into their sci-fi rock identity with neon visuals, elaborate staging, and cinematic storytelling that thrilled fans across arenas.
45. Katy Perry — California Dreams Tour (2011-2012)
Candy-colored visuals, whimsical costumes, and nonstop pop anthems made this tour feel like stepping into a technicolor dreamland.
46. Oasis — (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? Tour (1995-1996)
Britpop at its peak: Gallagher brothers’ swagger, sing-along anthems, and massive crowds at Knebworth solidified Oasis as a cultural phenomenon.
47. Justin Bieber — Purpose World Tour (2016-2017)
With slick choreography, EDM-driven visuals, and a maturing Bieber, the Purpose Tour bridged teen pop idol days with global superstardom.
48. BLACKPINK — In Your Area Tour (2018-2020)
Before Born Pink, BLACKPINK’s first global run showed their early star power, dazzling fans with choreography, charisma, and groundbreaking K-pop crossover success.
49. Bruce Springsteen — The River Tour (2016)
Decades after its release, Bruce revisited The River in full, reminding audiences of his storytelling depth while still rocking marathon sets.
50. J Balvin — Arcoiris Tour (2019)
Bright, playful, and packed with reggaeton bangers, J Balvin’s rainbow-themed Arcoiris Tour was as much visual art as it was a party.
51. Taylor Swift — Reputation Stadium Tour (2018)
Taylor embraced darker visuals and larger-than-life snakes to reclaim her narrative. The Reputation Tour was her most theatrical production until Eras.
52. The Weeknd — After Hours til Dawn Tour (2022-2023)
Abel Tesfaye turned stadiums into neon dystopias, performing atop futuristic catwalks in one of the sleekest R&B/pop tours ever staged.
53. Lady Gaga — Chromatica Ball (2022)
Delayed by the pandemic but worth the wait, Gaga’s Chromatica Ball delivered avant-garde visuals, powerhouse vocals, and reinvention once again.
54. SHINee — World V Tour (2017-2018)
Known for flawless live vocals and tight choreography, SHINee’s World V Tour solidified their reputation as K-pop’s “Princes of Performance.”
55. Metallica — World Magnetic Tour (2008-2010)
Proving their staying power, Metallica’s pyrotechnic-laden shows brought thrash metal to stadiums around the globe.
56. Destiny’s Child — Destiny Fulfilled… and Lovin’ It Tour (2005)
A heartfelt reunion that showcased Beyoncé, Kelly, and Michelle’s growth, delivering polished performances and emotional farewells.
57. Green Day — American Idiot Tour (2004-2005)
Green Day turned punk into political theater with this tour, merging pyrotechnics, satire, and raw rock energy at the height of their career.
58. Post Malone — Runaway Tour (2019-2020)
Posty mixed pyrotechnics with stripped-down acoustic moments, letting his genre-blending catalog shine. It was as unpredictable as his music itself.
59. Carole King & James Taylor — Troubadour Reunion Tour (2010)
Two legends on one stage, this intimate tour felt like a living history of American songwriting.
60. BigBang — Made World Tour (2015-2016)
As one of K-pop’s pioneering global acts, BigBang’s Made Tour broke attendance records and proved the genre’s worldwide reach long before BTS or BLACKPINK.
61. The Cure — Prayer Tour (1989)
Dark, dreamy, and dramatic, The Cure’s Prayer Tour was the perfect live extension of Disintegration, their gothic masterpiece.
62. TWICE — Ready to Be Tour (2023-2024)
TWICE brought their bubbly charisma to stadiums worldwide, cementing their global reach with polished performances and playful fan interactions.
63. Radiohead — In Rainbows Tour (2008-2009)
With inventive setlists and atmospheric visuals, this tour highlighted Radiohead’s ability to transform their experimental sound into a communal experience.
64. Beyoncé & Jay-Z — On the Run II (2018)
Music’s ultimate power couple united for a blockbuster tour, weaving love, betrayal, and triumph into a cinematic concert experience.
65. Stevie Nicks — 24 Karat Gold Tour (2016-2017)
The Fleetwood Mac icon’s solo tour celebrated her mystical catalog, captivating audiences with stories, scarves, and spellbinding vocals.
66. Red Hot Chili Peppers — Stadium Arcadium Tour (2006-2007)
Funky, fiery, and fun, RHCP’s massive tour proved their staying power as one of the ultimate live jam bands.
67. Dua Lipa — Future Nostalgia Tour (2022)
Dua turned disco-pop revival into a stadium spectacle, with sleek choreography and non-stop confidence that elevated her into pop’s A-list.
68. The Eagles — Hell Freezes Over Tour (1994-1996)
One of the most famous reunions in rock history, this tour proved The Eagles could soar higher than ever, even after years apart.
69. Prince — Hit n Run Tour (1986)
Prince thrived in spontaneity, and this unpredictable tour showed his genius in full force, shifting genres mid-show and dazzling every crowd.
70. Stray Kids — Maniac Tour (2022-2023)
Explosive energy, EDM-inspired stages, and intricate choreography made Maniac one of K-pop’s most electrifying global tours.
71. Coldplay — A Head Full of Dreams Tour (2016-2017)
Confetti, LED wristbands, and euphoric anthems turned every stadium into a rainbow-filled celebration of love and unity.
72. Madonna — Blond Ambition Tour (1990)
Controversial, theatrical, and groundbreaking, Blond Ambition reshaped what a pop tour could be — equal parts fashion show and statement.
73. Fleetwood Mac — Rumours Tour (1977-1978)
At the height of Rumours mania, the band’s onstage chemistry and personal tensions fueled unforgettable performances.
74. SEVENTEEN — Be the Sun Tour (2022-2023)
As one of K-pop’s best live performers, SEVENTEEN wowed with synchronized choreography, live vocals, and dynamic stages that highlighted all 13 members.
75. Pink — Funhouse Tour (2009)
Aerial stunts, heartfelt ballads, and raw power vocals turned Pink into one of pop’s most thrilling live performers.
76. Bruce Springsteen — Born in the U.S.A. Tour (1984-1985)
Springsteen’s all-American marathon shows embodied rock and roll grit, filling arenas with anthems that defined a generation.
77. Rihanna — Diamonds World Tour (2013)
Rihanna’s glamour, charisma, and endless string of hits created a sparkling spectacle that showcased her superstar dominance.
78. Metallica — Wherever We May Roam Tour (1991-1993)
Fueled by the Black Album, this tour pushed metal into mainstream stadium dominance with unmatched energy.
79. Miley Cyrus — Bangerz Tour (2014)
Wild visuals, outrageous antics, and unapologetic pop rebellion made this tour as controversial as it was unforgettable.
80. Elton John — Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour (2018-2023)
A heartfelt, career-spanning goodbye, Elton’s farewell trek was both emotional and celebratory, breaking records along the way.
81. NCT 127 — Neo City: The Link (2021-2023)
This high-octane K-pop tour mixed futuristic staging, flawless choreography, and genre-bending tracks that thrilled global fans.
82. Britney Spears — The Circus Tour (2009)
Part comeback, part carnival, Britney’s spectacle delivered pop theatrics with high-wire stunts and nostalgic hits.
83. Depeche Mode — Global Spirit Tour (2017-2018)
Electronic rock pioneers Depeche Mode captivated with atmospheric visuals and anthemic sing-alongs on one of their most successful tours.
84. Lizzo — Special Tour (2022-2023)
Empowering, body-positive, and joyful, Lizzo’s tour felt more like a celebration of self-love than just a concert.
85. Rolling Stones — Steel Wheels Tour (1989-1990)
The Stones proved they could still dominate stadiums with unmatched swagger and pyrotechnics after decades on the road.
86. BTS — The Wings Tour (2017)
BTS’s first global breakout, Wings introduced international audiences to their intense performances, emotional storytelling, and unmatched fan connection.
87. Shakira — El Dorado World Tour (2018)
A bilingual, hip-shaking spectacle, Shakira’s tour proved her global appeal with vibrant energy and magnetic stage presence.
88. Mariah Carey — The Butterfly Returns (2018-2020)
Vegas glam and vocal fireworks defined Mariah’s residency-style tour, blending nostalgia with timeless diva excellence.
89. Imagine Dragons — Evolve World Tour (2017-2019)
Arena-ready anthems and bombastic staging turned Imagine Dragons into one of the most reliable stadium-fillers of the decade.
90. New Kids on the Block — The Mixtape Tour (2019)
NKOTB leaned into nostalgia while sharing the stage with fellow pop icons like Salt-N-Pepa and Debbie Gibson, creating a party-like atmosphere.
91. Harry Styles — Love On Tour (2021-2023)
Harry’s pastel suits, magnetic charm, and safe-space vibes made Love On Tour feel like one big celebration of joy and acceptance.
92. Bon Jovi — Slippery When Wet Tour (1986-1987)
Hair metal at its peak: Bon Jovi’s sing-along anthems and larger-than-life performances defined arena rock.
93. Girls’ Generation — Girls & Peace Tour (2013)
The “Nation’s Girl Group” showed their global star power with dazzling choreography and polished performances across Asia.
94. Journey — Escape Tour (1981)
Arena rock perfection, fueled by Don’t Stop Believin’ and Steve Perry’s soaring vocals, made this tour unforgettable.
95. Christina Aguilera — Back to Basics Tour (2006-2007)
Retro glamour, powerhouse vocals, and circus-inspired staging cemented Christina’s reputation as one of pop’s strongest performers.
96. Outkast — Reunion Tour (2014)
André 3000 and Big Boi reunited for a hip-hop celebration that reminded the world of their innovation and influence.
97. SHINee — SHINee World 2012 (2012-2013)
This early world tour showcased SHINee’s flawless choreography and live vocals, helping spread K-pop’s wave globally.
98. The Smashing Pumpkins — Mellon Collie Tour (1996-1997)
Mixing grunge with art-rock theatrics, the Pumpkins’ most ambitious tour defined alternative rock’s dominance in the mid-’90s.
99. Kelly Clarkson — Breakaway Tour (2005-2006)
America’s original Idol brought powerhouse vocals and emotional relatability to arena crowds in her breakout global tour.
100. ABBA — North American & European Tour (1979-1980)
Before their decades-long hiatus, ABBA’s rare world tour delivered shimmering pop perfection that remains legendary among fans.