Football is more than just a game, it’s a global phenomenon that unites people from different cultures and backgrounds. For football fans and hesgoal users who are looking to see some action in person, visiting cities with rich football heritage can be an exciting adventure and a magical experience.
Whether it is to see a live match, visit a club museum or trophy room, or take in the atmosphere of a football-mad city, there is always a reason for football tourism.
It’s an increasingly popular phenomenon among fans of the beautiful game.
This article explores the top five cities that every football fan should visit in 2024 from around the world.
Prague, Czech Republic: A City of Football Heritage
Prague, in the heart of Central Europe, is known for its rich history dating back to the eighth century. The city offers an array of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture along with a vibrant nightlife scene.
However, what makes Prague stand out for football fans are its rival teams Slavia and Sparta whose rivalry dates back to the 19th century. This rivalry between the two Czech giants is the main driving force behind the love of football in the country.
Prague has produced legendary players over the years including the likes of Tomas Rosicky, Patrik Schick and Jan Koller while also playing a crucial role in the journey Ballon d’Or winner Pavel Nedved.
In recognition of Prague’s contribution to football, UEFA chose the Fortuna Arena as the host venue for the 2023 Europa Conference League final between West Ham United and Fiorentina.
It remains a hotspot for football historians from around the world.
Budapest, Hungary: Where History Meets Football
Budapest is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also home to Ferencvaros, a sleeping giant of the European game and the birthplace of icons of the sport like Ferenc Puskas, after whom a prominent award is named.
The classic film “Escape to Victory” was also filmed in Budapest.
However, Budapest’s relationship with football is not all about the past.
The state-of-the-art Puskas Arena has made Budapest a destination for some major European games including several matches at Euro 2020 as well as the 2023 Europa League final.
Monterrey, Mexico: Football’s Capital City
A city steeped in football history lies in northeast Mexico. Modern-day Monterrey is the home of Liga MX giants CF Monterrey, Rayados and Tigres UANL, but football fans making the pilgrimage to the city will mostly be doing so because it hosted several memorable World Cup games the past, such as England’s win over Poland in 1986 in which Gary Lineker famously scored three goals.
Still holding large significance in the minds of many fans today, especially in Central America, the city is set to host several games at the 2026 World Cup in the 54,000-seater Estadio BBVA – El Gigante de Acero.
Meanwhile, the Clasico Regiomontano, a fiercely contested derby between Rayados and Tigres, is a must-see for any football fan. Those football tourists lucky enough to get the opportunity to take in its atmosphere in person are rarely disappointed.
Naples, Italy: A City of Passionate Football Fans
Naples may just be the most passionate football-crazy city on the planet. It is a hub of anticipation ahead of every Napoli home game. That has rarely been more the case than at the end of last season when the club won their first Serie A title in 33 years.
The city itself offers stunning views of Mount Vesuvius volcano along with delicious food and world-renowned Neapolitan wine. However, it’s the passion for football that makes Naples a must-visit destination for any true football aficionado, especially if there is a big Serie A or UEFA Champions League game involving Napoli on the horizon.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: The Ultimate Football City
Buenos Aires houses over 20 professional football clubs including internationally renowned teams like River Plate and Boca Juniors.
Known as ‘The Paris of South America’, Buenos Aires has been shaped by various cultural influences over centuries, a huge one of which has been football.
While visitors can enjoy Argentine steak or Italian-influenced dishes while sipping on mate – a traditional drink enjoyed with a gourd and bombilla, to truly experience the heart of Buenos Aires’ vibrant culture one should visit their most sacred amphitheatres – La Bombonera or El Monumental, home to Boca Juniors and River Plate respectively.
These five cities offer more than just sightseeing, they provide an immersive experience into the world of football that fans will cherish forever, and a window into the passion which football can bring to a culture and a community.
by Craig Resnik-Hanson, Sports Journalist
Photos by Mitch Rosen (Main) and Carmen Laezza (Naples) on Unsplash
