Guide To Attending A Soccer Match In Europe

There are many reasons why someone may or may not want to attend a soccer match in Europe. There are some stories of fights, attacks and other foul play before, during and after a match. But when looking at all of the games played throughout the year, these are just a few incidents. For the most part, going to a European soccer match is quite fun and exciting, and a great taste of the culture you're visiting.

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Must-See Stadiums

Those who are huge soccer fans know which stadiums they must see when in Europe. Some of the most interesting stadiums offer unique architecture, history and sight lines to watch an exciting soccer match. No matter when you plan to travel, the following stadiums are a must-see when you are in Europe:

• Barcelona: Camp Nou
• Dortmund: Signal Iduna Park
• Dublin: Croke Park
• Glasgow: Hampden Park
• London: Craven Cottage
• Madrid: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu
• Manchester: Old Trafford

Related: Travel Guide To Italy's Cinque Terre

Tips For Going To A Game

When planning to go to a soccer game in Europe, it is a good idea to do some pre-planning and prepare yourself for what to expect when at a match. The first thing you will want to do is familiarize yourself with European football. Read up on the rules and history of the sport. This will help familiarize you with how the sport is played overseas and reduce the questions during the game.

Before leaving for the game, map out the route you will take from your hotel. Make sure you know how to get to and from the stadium. It is also a good idea to have an alternate route mapped out, just in case the route you wanted to take is blocked or you want to avoid some unruly fans.

Make sure to empty your bags of anything that is on the forbidden list. Items such as weapons, musical instruments, flags, banners, explosives, fireworks, bottles and cans are prohibited from being brought into the stadiums. Some stadiums also prohibit strollers from being brought in. If you are traveling with little ones, be prepared to carry them for their own safety.

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Tickets

The cost of tickets for soccer games in Europe will vary depending upon the stadium and teams playing. Other factors that affect ticket prices include league, special events and playoff games. On average, you can expect to pay between 35 to 50 pounds. Tickets are available at the gate; however, it is better to book your seats for the game online or go to the stadium prior to game day. To get the best tickets for the best prices, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different levels and leagues in European soccer.

To guarantee you get a ticket to the game, pay close attention to the on-sale dates. In general, tickets will go on sale to the public about 30 days prior to game day. Be quick when buying a ticket to the game, because if tickets are available for the general public they tend to sell out quickly. Different soccer clubs will be able to guide you to the right website to purchase tickets for upcoming games.

Safety

To some fans in Europe, soccer is like a religion. Many fans become over excited and do what they feel is necessary to support their team. In some cases, these fans take things to the extreme and riots, while not common, may occur. Common sense is key to staying out of trouble when attending a soccer game in Europe. Pay attention to your surroundings and know what is happening at all times. Here are some other tips to help keep you safe:

• Wear neutral colors and avoid wearing the visiting team's colors
• Sit on the home team's side and avoid the visiting team's stands
• When possible, avoid visiting fans
• Watch out for pickpockets
• Sit as high up in the stands as possible
• Do not throw anything
• Do not antagonize other fans
• Pay attention to the police and who they are watching
• Avoid halftime crowds
• Leave immediately after the game
• Avoid neighboring bars

Related: Top Tips For Safe Travel Abroad

Attending a soccer game in Europe can put you in the heart of the action. Many throughout Europe take their football serious, which fuels the excitement you will experience while at a game. Of course there are some safety concerns with attending a soccer game while visiting Europe, but if you are careful and use common sense, you are sure to have a fun and exciting time with the other fans.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.