attending champions league matches

The tension rises the moment the ball starts rolling in the millions competition. Every tie is a clash between the best clubs in Europe. For football fans, attending a Champions League match is a dream come true.

The magic of top European matches

The UEFA Champions League is much more than a tournament. It is the stage for legendary moments, unexpected twists and unrivalled passion. In stadiums all across Europe, the iconic anthem rings out before matches that will go down in history. From Anfield to San Siro: there is magic everywhere.

More and more fans are choosing to experience these matches live. Not on the TV, but in the stadium. Travelling to Europe’s football capitals is becoming increasingly popular, partly thanks to organised football trips. This makes attending such an evening easier than ever.

Why attend a Champions League match?

A match in the Champions League is unique. The atmosphere is different from regular fixtures. The crowd is more intensely involved. The players give just that little bit extra. Everything is at stake, and you notice it in every detail.

Moreover, you visit places where football is a way of life. Think of cities such as Madrid, Milan, London or Munich. Your visit is not just about football, but also about culture, gastronomy and history. It turns such a trip into an unforgettable experience.

Popular clubs to admire live

Do you want to attend a heavyweight tie? Then there are a few clubs where the experience is guaranteed to be first-rate. Think of:

• Real Madrid (Spain) – Thirteen-time winners of the Champions League. A match at the Bernabéu is a spectacle.
• FC Barcelona (Spain) – In the imposing Camp Nou every match comes to life, especially on European nights.
• Manchester City (England) – A modern football stronghold led by top coach Guardiola.
• Bayern Munich (Germany) – The German record champions play attractive football and win often.
• Paris Saint-Germain (France) – Packed with stars and spectacle, with the Parc des Princes as their home ground.

Do you want to book a football trip to these clubs easily? Then take a look at the current offers on Voetbalreizen.com.

How do you book a football trip?

There are different ways to put together a trip to a top match. You can arrange everything yourself or opt for an organised football trip. The latter option often offers convenience, certainty and comfort.

An organised football trip usually consists of:

• A match ticket (with a guaranteed seat)
• One or more overnight stays
• Flight or train journey (depending on the destination)
• Possibly transfers or extra options

Do you want everything arranged in one go? Then a provider such as Voetbalreizen.com is highly recommended.

Best cities for a football trip

A Champions League trip combines sport with tourism. These cities offer a perfect mix:

Madrid

Besides being the number one football city, Madrid is rich in culture and tapas. Visit the Prado Museum or stroll through the Retiro Park.

Milan

San Siro is a football temple. Combine your trip with a visit to the Duomo, the fashion boutiques and a good espresso.

London

With clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham there is always something going on. In addition, London offers endless possibilities for sightseeing.

Paris

The City of Light shines, just like PSG. Combine a match visit with an evening at the Eiffel Tower or a boat trip on the Seine.

Munich

Bayern play in the modern Allianz Arena. Also discover the old city centre, visit a beer garden and enjoy Bavarian specialities.

When is the best time to go?

The Champions League starts in September and ends in June. The group stage runs from September to December. The knockout matches start in February. The further into the tournament, the more exciting the matches become.

Many fans opt for the round of 16 or the quarter-finals. That is when the tension is at its peak and the ties are often of the highest quality.

Note: the closer it gets to the final, the more expensive tickets and accommodation become. So do not wait too long to book.

What should you pay attention to when booking?

Do you want to be sure of a good seat and a smooth trip? Then pay attention to the following points:

• Guaranteed tickets: Always buy from a reliable provider.
• Centrally located hotel: This makes it easy to get to the stadium.
• Flight times: Check whether the outbound and return flights fit well with the match schedule.
• Cancellation options: Flexibility is useful, especially in autumn or spring.
• Stadium access: In some countries an ID is compulsory on entry.

Football and safety

In major cities and around stadiums, strict security measures often apply. Always make sure you have valid ID with you. Also follow the instructions of the local authorities and security staff.

It is also advisable to go to the stadium well in advance on match day. This way you avoid unnecessary stress.

The atmosphere in the stadium

An evening under the floodlights, thousands of singing fans and a stadium full of tension. That is the essence of a top match. Expect flags, fireworks (outside the stadium) and incredible energy.

Do you want to experience the atmosphere to the full? Then choose a seat among the most passionate fans or in the central stand with an excellent view of the pitch.

Useful tips for your trip

• Book as early as possible. Especially for popular ties, prices rise quickly.
• Check the club’s fixture list. Sometimes the matchdays are Tuesday or Wednesday.
• Check the fixture list shortly before departure: dates can still change.
• Use public transport at your destination: there is often special transport to the stadium.
• Also plan some free time for sightseeing or a local meal.

Finals and unique locations

The Champions League final is held in a different stadium every year. In the past these have included:

• Wembley Stadium (London)
• Atatürk Stadium (Istanbul)
• Stade de France (Paris)
• Estadio da Luz (Lisbon)

The final is often sold out quickly. Do you want to be there? Then book as soon as the finalists are known.

Combining Champions League trips with a city break

A football trip is not only about sport, but also culturally interesting. Consider, for example:

• A stadium tour (e.g. Camp Nou Experience in Barcelona)
• Sampling local dishes
• Visiting museums and highlights
• Staying in atmospheric districts

In this way your trip becomes more than just a match visit. It becomes a complete experience.

Football trips for families or groups

Do you want to go on a trip with friends or family? Then group trips are an excellent option. There are packages available for families, groups of friends or even company outings.

A group trip often offers extra benefits:

• Discount for several people
• Guidance on site
• Possibility of extra activities (such as a stadium tour)

Do not hesitate to enquire with a specialist provider such as Voetbalreizen.com for a tailor-made package.

Sustainability and travel

More and more travellers are consciously choosing more sustainable options. Think of travelling by train, staying in eco-hotels and offsetting CO₂ emissions.

Do you want to travel responsibly? Then consider:

• Train journeys within Europe (e.g. to Paris, London or Munich)
• Staying in hotels with green certification
• Offsetting your flight

In this way you contribute to more sustainable tourism, even as a football fan.

Frequently asked questions about travelling to Champions League matches

1. Where can I safely buy tickets for Champions League matches?
Always buy tickets through an authorised provider such as Voetbalreizen.com. Avoid unofficial channels or touts.

2. When can Champions League matches be attended?
From September to June inclusive. The group stage is in autumn, the knockout stage from February onwards. The final is in June.

3. Is it possible to put together a football trip myself?
Yes. You can book your own flight, hotel and ticket. An organised football trip, however, offers more convenience and certainty.

4. Are the stadiums easy to reach by public transport?
Yes, in most European cities there is extra transport on match days. There are often metro or bus lines to the stadium.

5. Can I also take children to a Champions League match?
Absolutely. Many clubs are child friendly. Do choose a quieter section and check in advance whether any age restrictions apply.