When it comes to holidays, we all tend to do similar things. Some people prefer a beach-based few weeks away in a tropical environment, while others opt for a more action-packed adventure as they explore a major city, such as Rome. Some people even enjoy combining their passion for sports with a vacation away. For example, you could integrate a camping trip to Yorkshire with some football-watching at Leeds United’s Elland Road stadium.
The beautiful game is a fantastic sport to base a holiday on. Depending on where you are, you can blend your love of football with a much-needed relaxing getaway. Some people opt for a La Liga match in Spain, while others prefer a domestic holiday to soak up a key encounter in the Premier League. Given the extensive selection of football that can be sampled, there certainly isn’t a shortage of options, especially in Europe. So, without further ado, let’s look at some of the best football-themed holidays.
Istanbul
Known for having some of the most passionate supporters, Istanbul is a city with a strong affinity for football. A popular destination with holidaymakers in general, Turkey’s fairly cheap prices and excellent hospitality separates it from many other European options. If you can supplement your stay in a nearby luxury resort with a visit to İstanbul Başakşehir, you’ll be in for one of the most unique football-watching experiences. Firstly, tickets aren’t too expensive compared to the English Premier League. Then, once you’ve secured yourself a spot inside a bouncing stadium, you’ll enjoy the amazing atmosphere and, hopefully, a highly entertaining match.
Liverpool
Liverpool’s famous “You’ll Never Walk Alone” anthem is worth witnessing in the flesh at the clubs’ Anfield home. Despite Premier League tickets reaching extortionate amounts these days, experiencing a top-level game at one of the most famous football theatres on earth is truly unbeatable. While Liverpool is currently lagging behind Manchester City in England’s top flight, the atmosphere at Anfield is certainly better than at the Etihad.
You can enjoy some diverse cuisine at Duke Street Food & Drink Market before venturing to Anfield to soak up the pre-match atmosphere, purchasing a programme, backing Mohamed Salah to score the first goal with some sports betting wagers, posing for any memorable shots of Anfield, and then strapping yourself in for one of the most memorable match days of your life. Afterwards, with a win hopefully in the bag for Jurgen Klopp’s side, you can head back to your hotel after an unforgettable day, safe in the knowledge that you’ve got more exploring to do the next day. After all, Liverpool is a fantastic city with plenty to see and do.
Madrid
Home to arguably the biggest club on the planet, Madrid is a glorious city to take in for a week or so or even just a weekend. With Atletico Madrid also an option, you certainly aren’t short on potential clashes to witness. Alongside seeing the city’s Royal Palace, walking through Buen Retiro Park, and sampling some authentic Spanish cuisine, you can purchase a ticket fairly easily for a Real Madrid or an Atletico Madrid match. Both sides are worth seeing, although Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium probably edges it for most football fans, especially when you factor in the club’s history and the world-class talent you’re likely to see on the day.
Other options include Milan, Buenos Aires, Lisbon, Glasgow, and Amsterdam.