The European Championships are around the corner and, for the first time ever, the tournament will take place across a whopping 11 countries spanning the continent. From London to Azerbaijan, teams will take to the pitch in the quest of winning the major international competition. This year’s tournament will welcome 24 nations and, whilst it’s harder than ever to accurately predict the winner due to the increase in competition, betting companies are offering generous incentives which make having a punt on your potential tournament favorites easy.
For those who want more than just to watch teams on TV, the host cities offer plenty more culture than just the local stadium. Away days are often considered the best by football fans so, in this article, I’ll rate the best cities to visit which are hosting Euro 2020 matches.
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Budapest
In 1873, Hungary united the towns of Buda, Obuda and Pest to create what is now known as Budapest. The city is separated by the beautiful River Danube and is visited by a whopping 30 million tourists each year.
The Hungarian capital didn’t only bless the world with the iconic Ferenc Puská. It is also the venue of many rare attractions. Home to Europe’s largest medicinal bath (Széchenyi Medicinal Bath), Budapest also boasts 80 geothermal springs and the world’s largest thermal water cave system.
For those who prefer a lively vacation to a relaxing retreat, every August Hajógyári Island is host to the Sziget festival, which welcomes a diverse and impressive line-up of international music stars across a multi-day schedule.
Munich
Munich’s Allianz arena is one of the best stadia in the world and it’s home to Bayern. Whilst the color changing arena is worth a visit on a match day or just for a tour, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Germany’s third largest city.
Situated in the heart of Bavaria, Munich is home to the iconic Oktoberfest, which runs from September for 16-18 days. The cultured tourist will know that the festival is a celebration of the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. However, the majority of visitors will be enjoying some of the seven million liters of beer which are consumed during the event.
If you’re looking for music and entertainment, then the bustling streets of Marienplatz are worth a visit, as dozens of talented street performers greet spectators daily to showcase their skills and treat the masses.
Rome
One of the most historically significant and beautiful cities in the world, Rome is the perfect location to watch iconic sides Roma, Lazio or even the Italian national side.
You’ll be wowed by the Stadio Olimpico, but despite a capacity of over 70,000 and having had the honor of hosting a World Cup final, it’s still not the most impressive stadium in the city. That title is reserved for the globally recognized Colosseum amphitheater. The Colosseum is synonymous with the city and inaugurated in 80AD. The ancient architecture is an unforgettable and unmissable experience for any visitor to Rome.
Once you’ve traversed the Colosseum, you should take in the sights and surroundings of the other breathtaking architecture around the city. Get some of the best gelato in the world and then make your way from the Pantheon to the Trevi Fountain. Once you’ve seen the outer city, it’s time to head to the city within the city – the Vatican.
The Vatican City is open to tourists and if the views from St. Peter’s Basilica – the largest Christian church in the world – aren’t enough, then you can always swing by the Sistine Chapel to see some of Michelangelo’s most famous works of art. And don’t forget there’s always a chance to see the Pope by visiting St Peter’s Square on a Sunday morning for his Papal audience.
Euro matches
Remember, aside from the unique attractions on offer in these cities, each will play host to Euro 2020 games. The Puskás Aréna in Budapest will host three Group F matches and one Round of 16. The Football Arena Munich will host three Group F games and one Quarter Final game. The Olympico in Rome will host the opening game between Italy and Turkey, along with two further Group A matches and one quarter final.
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