Traveling the world is one of life’s greatest moments, but if you’re a sports enthusiast too – then there is nothing better. From flying to the Olympics and lapping up all that Paris had to offer, to traveling around Germany and savoring the moments from the Euros, sports and travel go hand in hand. But what’s intriguing for the travel lovers among us is the roar of the crowds and the unforgettable moments of each sporting match, which bring everyone together from all over the world. In this guide, we will be exploring some of the biggest international sporting events, and which countries coincide with each one. Whether it’s scenic activities after each game or the food culture in every country – we’re going to do a rundown of all the things you can do in each of these monumental sporting capitals.
- United Kingdom, London
Ah, London – where the red buses are synonymous with the city, and the hustle and bustle comes as part of the journey. It’s where one of the greatest tournaments of tennis is played, and brings in thousands of spectators every single day of the tournament. Wimbledon is the oldest and most renowned tennis tournament out there, and visiting is one of the must-do activities when you hit London. It doesn’t mean you have to be a sports fan to lap up the lively buzz of the greens either, as most onlookers are the average people who are coming for the experience of the match (AKA, strawberries and cream). Beyond the famous grass courts that London is known for, there are a plethora of activities that you can get on with when the games come to a close.
Things to do:
- Visit landmarks: London is one of the best places to check out if you love the history and messages behind the city. There is such a rich culture that every building in the city has some kind of story. Take in the local attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, or the London Eye for a true 360 overview of this great city.
- Museums: One thing Londoners love is their trips to museums and galleries, so why don’t you get involved? When you’re not tuning in to your favorite sports match, you can take some time away and head on down to the Tate Modern or National Gallery.
- Local food: London is well-versed in their food culture, and there are plenty of food and drinks stalls dotted all over the city. You’d most probably enjoy the vibrant pub scene in the city if you’re looking for sports bars – but if you’re more of a foodie, then places like Soho and Shoreditch are well-known for having great markets. Try out The Arcade in Oxford Street or Seven Dials in central Soho – they’re full of character and taste!
- United States
Thinking of American Football? Then you’re sure to think of the world-famous Super Bowl. From the millions of dollars funneled into ads leading up to the games to the football fans gearing up for the future football odds, the Super Bowl is a monumental event in its own right. Held every year in various cities across the United States, it’s a bucket-list moment for every travel fan and football lover.
Things to do:
- Travel around the host city: We all know that the Super Bowl is hosted in a different city each year, so there is plenty to do on a year-by-year basis. You can explore the sunny beaches of Miami one year, or check out the vibrant bustle of New York. The world really is your oyster with America, as there are so many cities to travel around.
- Tailgating experience: Tailgating is part and parcel of American Football. Join all the fans in the car park right before any game for a fun-fuelled sporting atmosphere. Filled with BBQs, beers, and team chants, it’s the ideal way to pump yourself up before a big game.
- The halftime show and festivities. We wait all year to find out about that half-time show that costs hundreds of millions of dollars, but did you know there is a whole week of Super Bowl fun? As we wait eagerly for the big game, the Super Bowl week hosts a jam-packed schedule of festivities. Head on down to concerts, parties, and local eateries that all offer deals on food and drinks throughout the week. And trust us, the drinking and food culture is a key component of American Football and its fans.
- Germany
Though the Euros are over, we’ll still associate Germany with football for the next few months at least. This country welcomed 2.67 million visitors to the many stadiums in Germany during the 51 games over the summer – so it’s a must-visit place for people wanting to mix travel with sport. It’s a great spot for people looking to enjoy some true culture, but also the best place to come for every football fan because of the amount of stadiums dotted around the country.
Things to do:
- Visit Berlin: If you go to Germany, then you must make your starting point in Berlin. You can walk beside the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate, and lap up all that culture. If you love to stop by travel destinations that are packed with museums, then Museum Island is home to 5 of the most well-known museums in the world, so it’s every traveler’s dream in one place.
- Munich: When November and December swing by, many travelers flock to Germany for its infamous charm. The Christmas markets, Germanic fun, and traditional German culture are what make the festivities sing, and Munich is at the heart of all this. Dot around the city, visit monuments, and then finish with an ice-cold German beer at one of the historic beer gardens, such as the Hofbräuhaus.
- France, Paris
Everyone’s been glued to their screens tuning into the Olympics, and we sports fans are no different. It may have come to a sad close, but we can’t help but want to take a flight and explore the true identity of Paris. Known as the City of Light, Paris held the Olympics this year and brought in the best athletes from all over the world. When the games are over and the dust has settled, Paris doesn’t sleep – it only gets better.
Things to do:
- Iconic landmarks: You’d have to be living under a rock to not be aware of the iconic Eiffel Tour, and taking a walk down the bottom is a great activity. When you’ve taken in all that it has to offer, you can then take a stroll along the Champs-Élysées or take a cab and drive past the Notre-Dame like in the movies.
- Cuisine: Oh, French food, it’s one of the greatest cuisines around. Travel lovers go to Paris specifically for their food, and we can see why. Choose between a traditional French breakfast at a quaint cafe in the mornings or sample some pastries from the famous Ladurée. By night, Michelin-star restaurants are awaiting you, and you need to make sure to give some of the classics a go and get involved in the true culture. I.E. snails!
Overall, sports and travel are something that is the perfect mix of leisure and play. You can see new sights, explore exciting things, and pick up food that you have never tried. Olympics 2028 is now going to be held in America – and we can’t wait to travel and explore the great USA.