Of all the continents in the world, there are certain European cities which prove their obsession for football more than the others. South America aside – for obvious reasons!
Best European Cities for Football
I’ve had the pleasure of travelling to a number of European cities, purely for football reasons.
For reference, you can find my guides to PSV and Valencia by clicking those links.
And as I’ve mentioned in the ‘About Us‘ section of Hobby FC, the entire reason for starting this project is two-fold between my newfound love of travelling and pastime of collecting football cards.
So, in this particular article, I’ll be taking us through 7 of the best European cities when it comes to watching and enjoying football as a fan abroad. Some of which I would have already been to, and others which are on my hit list for the 2024/25 season. A non-exhaustive list, of course – which I will be adding to as the years continue on.
From legendary clubs to devoted fans, these cities live and breathe football. Here are seven European cities where football isn’t just a sport but a way of life.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is synonymous with football excellence.
And as far as European cities go, it’s almost as if its layout was done purposely to showcase that.
Home to (of course) FC Barcelona, one of the world’s most successful clubs, the city pulses with football energy, as the famous windy roads ebb and meander around its proud stadium.
The iconic Camp Nou stadium is a must-visit for any football fan, offering an electric atmosphere on match days. And it still pains me to this day that I didn’t get there before the renovations.
The rivalry with Real Madrid, known as El Clásico, is one of the most intense in sports, making Barcelona a true football city, especially when Los Blancos come to town. I’d probably suggest to not wear a single bit of white throughout the city, if I were you – just to be safe!
Liverpool, England
Liverpool is a city with an undying love for football.
Not the ideal place for a Manc like me, but even I can’t doubt its credentials as being one of the fiercest and proudest European cities when it comes to the game of football.
Home to two English giants, Liverpool FC and Everton FC, the city is divided by a fierce rivalry which hasn’t subsided from its peak period in the 1980s to this day.
Anfield, Liverpool FC’s fortress, is renowned for its passionate supporters and spine-tingling renditions of “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” While Everton’s Goodison Park represents its own idiosyncrasies that will surely be missed when they make their move to their new home in the near future.
Milan, Italy
Milan breathes football through its historic clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan.
And I’m happy that it’s the first of these European cities that I myself have visited on more than one occasion – including a Champions League night! For my full guide on the city, click here.
The San Siro stadium, shared by both teams, is a cathedral of football where legendary players have showcased their talents. The Derby della Madonnina, the fierce Milan derby, highlights the city’s football passion, making it a vibrant football hub.
The city itself is also easy to navigate, tourist-focused (whether that’s a good or bad thing, I’m not too sure), and offers everything the family would need while you sneak off to watch a game for 2 hours.
Dortmund, Germany
Dortmund’s love for football is epitomized by Borussia Dortmund and their stadium, Signal Iduna Park.
Known for its “Yellow Wall,” the largest terrace for standing spectators in European football, the stadium offers an electrifying atmosphere. The city’s residents eat, sleep, and breathe football, creating a vibrant and spirited community.
It’s in the fabric of the city, that everyone who walks through practically bleeds yellow.
I will go to Dortmund soon – leaving this statement here to manifest for me.
Madrid, Spain
As a landlocked city in a coastal country, Madrid is one of those European cities which is almost historically searching for something to love without a beach to pass the time.
Thankfully, they chose football – and did a pretty good job with that!
Madrid is home to two of the biggest clubs in the world, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. The Santiago Bernabéu and Wanda Metropolitano stadiums are theaters of football dreams, where history is written with each match. The city buzzes with football fever, especially during the Madrid derby, showcasing its deep-seated football culture.
Manchester, England
Manchester is a football powerhouse.
Plain and simple
With Manchester United and Manchester City as its two crown jewels. Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium are landmarks of football glory and innovation.
The city’s football culture is deeply ingrained, with a history of producing legendary players and memorable matches. Its influence is even found in local community centres, pubs and restaurants right throughout – it’s one of the European cities where you can’t escape the influence of football.
More recently, there are a few business which open up in the hospitality and retail world to emphasise their love of the game – like with Hotel Football and the new Classic Football Shirts shop.
And if this isn’t a reason to visit, I’m not sure what is!
Glasgow, Scotland
I love Scotland and Scottish people – always have, and always will.
Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson are to thank for that!
Glasgow’s football passion is best experienced through its two rival clubs, Celtic and Rangers. But you better exercise caution before representing either of those clubs in enemy territory.
The Old Firm derby between these two is one of the oldest and most fiercely contested rivalries in football. The city’s dedication to the sport is palpable, with fans’ loyalty and fervour creating an unparalleled football atmosphere.
Probably the fiercest of all European cities when it comes to exhibiting pride for your club.
But Istanbul does exist, so…
Summary
These seven European cities exemplify the continent’s deep-rooted passion for football.
Whether it’s the historic rivalries, iconic stadiums, or devoted fan bases, each city offers a unique and vibrant football culture. For any football enthusiast, visiting these cities is a chance to experience the beautiful game at its most passionate and thrilling.
Which of these European cities is next on your list to watch a game?