Spain is a country that offers a unique blend of sun, beaches, culture, history, and gastronomy. But it also provides some of the best football experiences in the world. Here are ten destinations where visitors can combine a relaxing holiday with a beautiful game.
The Canary Islands: Europe’s Most Southern Team
The Canary Islands, located at the same latitude as the Sahara Desert, offer consistently sunny weather, attracting tourists all year round. Besides the sun and hospitality, the islands provide a unique footballing experience. Las Palmas, the most southern team of Europe’s top five football leagues, calls this archipelago home. Visitors to Tenerife can also enjoy a football game, with Tenerife playing in Spanish football’s second tier.
Madrid: A City of Six LaLiga Teams
Madrid, Spain’s capital, is known for its museums, parks, shopping, shows, nightlife, and more. It is one of the best spots for a city break, especially for football fans. The city boasts four top-flight teams – Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Rayo Vallecano, and Getafe, plus second-division sides Leganés and Alcorcon. Madrid also houses LEGENDS, a seven-story site at Puerta del Sol, featuring an extensive collection of historical football pieces.
Barcelona and the Costa Brava: Football by Mediterranean
Barcelona, a city of football fans, is home to two historic clubs – Barcelona and Espanyol. Both clubs’ stadiums are worth visiting, along with the marvels of Gaudi. For those staying on the Costa Brava, one of the most popular coastlines on the Iberian Peninsula, Girona offers another option to catch a La Liga match.
Valencia: Home to Spain’s Oldest Stadium
Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is a major tourist destination. It offers a mix of historic charm and futuristic architecture. For football fans, Mestalla, Valencia’s home ground, is the only stadium in Spain’s top division that is 100 years old.
Palma de Mallorca: Football in the Balearics
The Balearic Islands, known for their turquoise blue waters, welcome millions of guests every year. The largest island, Mallorca, is home to a top-flight football team, Real Mallorca. Visitors can combine a sunny stay with a visit to the recently redeveloped Estadi Mallorca Son Moix.
Almeria: Beaches and Passion for Football
Almeria, located on the southeast corner of the Iberian Peninsula, is home to some of the most natural beaches of the Mediterranean. In the center of the Gulf of Almeria is the city of the same name, home to Almeria and the Power Horse Stadium, one of the most atmospheric grounds in Spanish football.
Cadiz: A Stadium Near the Beach
Cadiz, a unique holiday destination, is a narrow slice of land surrounded by sea. The Estadio Nuevo Mirandilla, home of Cadiz, is located just 200 meters from Victoria Beach, offering a rare combination of seaside and football.
Granada: Historic Architecture and Football
Granada, an inland city, attracts millions of tourists to the Alhambra Palace and Fortress, a well-preserved example of historic Islamic architecture. Visitors can pair a trip to the Alhambra with a visit to the Nuevo Estadio de Los Carmenes, the stadium of Granada.
Donostia-San Sebastian: Beaches, Gastronomy, Cinema and Football
Donostia-San Sebastian, one of the most stunning seaside cities in the Basque Country, is famous for its beaches, gastronomy, and the San Sebastian International Film Festival. Football enthusiasts can take in a La Liga game at Real Sociedad’s Reale Arena.
Elche: Palm Groves and Football
Elche, home to the Palmeral of Elche, a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is one of the main attractions on Spain’s east coast. The city is also home to Elche CF, who play at the imposing 31,000-seater Estadio Martinez Valero.
These destinations offer a unique blend of holiday relaxation and football excitement, making them perfect for any football-loving traveler.
